1
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Chen X, Su S, Yan Y, Yin L, Liu L. Anti- Pseudomonas aeruginosa activity of natural antimicrobial peptides when used alone or in combination with antibiotics. Front Microbiol 2023; 14:1239540. [PMID: 37731929 PMCID: PMC10508351 DOI: 10.3389/fmicb.2023.1239540] [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: 06/13/2023] [Accepted: 08/22/2023] [Indexed: 09/22/2023] Open
Abstract
The World Health Organization has recently published a list of 12 drug-resistant bacteria that posed a significant threat to human health, and Pseudomonas aeruginosa (P. aeruginosa) was among them. In China, P. aeruginosa is a common pathogen in hospital acquired pneumonia, accounting for 16.9-22.0%. It is a ubiquitous opportunistic pathogen that can infect individuals with weakened immune systems, leading to hospital-acquired acute and systemic infections. The excessive use of antibiotics has led to the development of various mechanisms in P. aeruginosa to resist conventional drugs. Thus, there is an emergence of multidrug-resistant strains, posing a major challenge to conventional antibiotics and therapeutic approaches. Antimicrobial peptides are an integral component of host defense and have been found in many living organisms. Most antimicrobial peptides are characterized by negligible host toxicity and low resistance rates, making them become promising for use as antimicrobial products. This review particularly focuses on summarizing the inhibitory activity of natural antimicrobial peptides against P. aeruginosa planktonic cells and biofilms, as well as the drug interactions when these peptides used in combination with conventional antibiotics. Moreover, the underlying mechanism of these antimicrobial peptides against P. aeruginosa strains was mainly related to destroy the membrane structure through interacting with LPS or increasing ROS levels, or targeting cellular components, leaded to cell lysis. Hopefully, this analysis will provide valuable experimental data on developing novel compounds to combat P. aeruginosa.
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Affiliation(s)
- Xueqi Chen
- Department of Pharmacy, China-Japan Friendship Hospital, Beijing, China
| | - Shan Su
- Department of Pharmacy, The Affiliated Taian City Central Hospital of Qingdao University, Taian, China
| | - Yan Yan
- Department of Pharmacy, China-Japan Friendship Hospital, Beijing, China
| | - Limei Yin
- Department of Pharmacy, China-Japan Friendship Hospital, Beijing, China
| | - Lihong Liu
- Department of Pharmacy, China-Japan Friendship Hospital, Beijing, China
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2
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Kaygorodova IA. Role of Antimicrobial Peptides in Immunity of Parasitic Leeches. DOKLADY BIOLOGICAL SCIENCES : PROCEEDINGS OF THE ACADEMY OF SCIENCES OF THE USSR, BIOLOGICAL SCIENCES SECTIONS 2023; 511:183-195. [PMID: 37833572 DOI: 10.1134/s0012496623700436] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/20/2023] [Revised: 03/21/2023] [Accepted: 03/25/2023] [Indexed: 10/15/2023]
Abstract
The review summarizes the current state of knowledge about leech immunity, with emphasis on the special role of antimicrobial peptides (AMPs), and highlights the wide variety of primary AMP structures, which seem to correlate with a variety of life strategies and the ecology of ectoparasites. Antimicrobial proteins and AMPs are a diverse class of natural molecules that are produced in all living organisms in response to an attack by a pathogen and are essential components of the immune system. AMPs can have a wide range of antibiotic activities against foreign and opportunistic bacteria, fungi, and viruses. AMPs play an important role in selection of colonizing bacterial symbionts, thus helping multicellular organisms to cope with certain environmental problems. AMPs are especially important for invertebrates, which lack an adaptive immune system. Although many AMPs are similar in physicochemical properties (a total length from 10 to 100 amino acids, a positive total charge, or a high cysteine content), their immunomodulatory activities are specific for each AMP type.
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Affiliation(s)
- I A Kaygorodova
- Limnological Institute, Siberian Branch, Russian Acedemy of Sciences, Irkutsk, Russia.
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3
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Ghribi N, Guay-Bégin AA, Bilem I, Chevallier P, Auger FA, Ruel J, Laroche G. Peptide grafting on intraosseous transcutaneous amputation prostheses to promote sealing with skin cells: Potential to limit infections. J Biomed Mater Res A 2023; 111:688-700. [PMID: 36680491 DOI: 10.1002/jbm.a.37505] [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: 10/13/2022] [Revised: 01/10/2023] [Accepted: 01/12/2023] [Indexed: 01/22/2023]
Abstract
The long-term success of intraosseous transcutaneous amputation prostheses (ITAPs) mainly relies on dermal attachment of skin cells to the implant. Otherwise, bacteria can easily penetrate through the interface between the implant and the skin. Therefore, infection at this implant/skin interface remains a significant complication in orthopedic surgeries in which these prostheses are required. Two main strategies were investigated to prevent these potential infection problems which consist in either establishing a strong sealing at the skin/implant interface or on eradicating infections by killing bacteria. In this work, two adhesion peptides, either KRGDS or KYIGSR and one antimicrobial peptide, Magainin 2 (Mag 2), were covalently grafted via phosphonate anchor arms to the surface of the Ti6Al4V ELI (extra low interstitials) material, commonly used to manufacture ITAPs. X-ray photoelectron spectroscopy, contact angle, and confocal microscopy analyses enabled to validate the covalent and stable grafting of these three peptides. Dermal fibroblasts cultures on bare Ti6Al4V ELI surfaces and functionalized ones displayed a good cell adhesion and proliferation on all samples. However, cell spreading and viability appeared to be improved on grafted surfaces, especially for those conjugated with KRGDS and Mag 2. Moreover, the dermal sheet attachment, was significantly higher on surfaces functionalized with Mag 2 as compared to the other surfaces. Therefore, the surface functionalization with the antimicrobial peptide Mag 2 seems to be the best approach for the targeted application, as it could play a dual role, inducing a strong skin adhesion while limiting infections on Ti6Al4V ELI materials.
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Affiliation(s)
- Nawel Ghribi
- Laboratoire d'ingénierie de surface (LIS), Centre de Recherche du CHU de Québec-Université Laval, Hôpital Saint-François d'Assise, Québec, Québec, Canada
- Département de génie des mines, de la métallurgie et des matériaux, Centre de recherche sur les Matériaux Avancés, Université Laval, Québec, Québec, Canada
| | - Andrée-Anne Guay-Bégin
- Laboratoire d'ingénierie de surface (LIS), Centre de Recherche du CHU de Québec-Université Laval, Hôpital Saint-François d'Assise, Québec, Québec, Canada
- Département de génie des mines, de la métallurgie et des matériaux, Centre de recherche sur les Matériaux Avancés, Université Laval, Québec, Québec, Canada
| | - Ibrahim Bilem
- Laboratoire d'ingénierie de surface (LIS), Centre de Recherche du CHU de Québec-Université Laval, Hôpital Saint-François d'Assise, Québec, Québec, Canada
- Département de génie des mines, de la métallurgie et des matériaux, Centre de recherche sur les Matériaux Avancés, Université Laval, Québec, Québec, Canada
| | - Pascale Chevallier
- Laboratoire d'ingénierie de surface (LIS), Centre de Recherche du CHU de Québec-Université Laval, Hôpital Saint-François d'Assise, Québec, Québec, Canada
- Département de génie des mines, de la métallurgie et des matériaux, Centre de recherche sur les Matériaux Avancés, Université Laval, Québec, Québec, Canada
| | - François A Auger
- Centre de Recherche du CHU de Québec-Université Laval, LOEX, Québec, Québec, Canada
| | - Jean Ruel
- Département de Génie mécanique, Université Laval, Québec, Québec, Canada
| | - Gaétan Laroche
- Laboratoire d'ingénierie de surface (LIS), Centre de Recherche du CHU de Québec-Université Laval, Hôpital Saint-François d'Assise, Québec, Québec, Canada
- Département de génie des mines, de la métallurgie et des matériaux, Centre de recherche sur les Matériaux Avancés, Université Laval, Québec, Québec, Canada
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4
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Lopes JLS, Araujo CCF, Neves RC, Bürck J, Couto SG. Structural analysis of the peptides temporin-Ra and temporin-Rb and interactions with model membranes. EUROPEAN BIOPHYSICS JOURNAL : EBJ 2022; 51:493-502. [PMID: 35978176 DOI: 10.1007/s00249-022-01615-y] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/08/2022] [Revised: 07/27/2022] [Accepted: 07/31/2022] [Indexed: 06/15/2023]
Abstract
The skin of amphibians is widely exploited as rich sources of membrane active peptides that differ in chain size, polypeptide net charge, secondary structure, target selectivity and toxicity. In this study, two small antimicrobial peptides, temporin-Ra and temporin-Rb, originally isolated from the skin of the European marsh frog (Rana ridibunda), described as active against pathogen bacteria and presenting low toxicity to eukaryotic cells were synthesized and had their physicochemical properties and mechanism of action investigated. The temporin peptides were examined in aqueous solution and in the presence of membrane models (lipid monolayers, micelles, lipid bilayers and vesicles). A combined approach of bioinformatics analyses, biological activity assays, surface pressure measurements, synchrotron radiation circular dichroism spectroscopy, and oriented circular dichroism spectroscopy were employed. Both peptides were able to adsorb at a lipid-air interface with a negative surface charge density, and efficiently disturb the lipid surface packing. A disorder-to-helix transition was observed on the secondary structure of both peptides when either in a non-polar environment or interacting with model membranes containing a negative net charge density. The binding of both temporin-Ra and temporin-Rb to membrane models is modulated by the presence of negatively charged lipids in the membrane. The amphipathic helix induced in temporin-Ra is oriented parallel to the membrane surface in negatively charged or in zwitterionic lipid bilayers, with no tendency for realignment after binding. Temporin-Rb, instead, assumes a β-sheet conformation when deposited into oriented stacked lipid bilayers. Due to their short size and simple composition, both peptides are quite attractive for the development of new classes of peptide-based anti-infective drugs.
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Affiliation(s)
- José L S Lopes
- Instituto de Física, Universidade de São Paulo, São Paulo, SP, 05080-900, Brazil
| | - Caio C F Araujo
- Faculdade de Medicina, Universidade Federal de Goiás, Goiânia, GO, 74690-900, Brazil
| | - Rogério C Neves
- Instituto de Patologia Tropical E Saúde Pública, Universidade Federal de Goiás, Goiânia, GO, 74605050, Brazil
| | - Jochen Bürck
- Institute of Biological Interfaces (IBG-2), Karlsruhe Institute of Technology (KIT), POB 3640, 76021, Karlsruhe, Germany
| | - Sheila G Couto
- Instituto de Física, Universidade Federal de Goiás, Av. Esperança, s/n - Campus Samambaia, Goiânia, GO, 74690-900, Brazil.
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5
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Anurans against SARS-CoV-2: A review of the potential antiviral action of anurans cutaneous peptides. Virus Res 2022; 315:198769. [PMID: 35430319 PMCID: PMC9008983 DOI: 10.1016/j.virusres.2022.198769] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/12/2022] [Revised: 04/05/2022] [Accepted: 04/06/2022] [Indexed: 01/17/2023]
Abstract
At the end of 2019, in China, clinical signs and symptoms of unknown etiology have been reported in several patients whose sample sequencing revealed pneumonia caused by the SARS-CoV-2 virus. COVID-19 is a disease triggered by this virus, and in 2020, the World Health Organization declared it a pandemic. Since then, efforts have been made to find effective therapeutic agents against this disease. Identifying novel natural antiviral drugs can be an alternative to treatment. For this reason, antimicrobial peptides secreted by anurans' skin have gained attention for showing a promissory antiviral effect. Hence, this review aimed to elucidate how and which peptides secreted by anurans' skin can be considered therapeutic agents to treat or prevent human viral infectious diseases. Through a literature review, we attempted to identify potential antiviral frogs' peptides to combat COVID-19. As a result, the Magainin-1 and -2 peptides, from the Magainin family, the Dermaseptin-S9, from the Dermaseptin family, and Caerin 1.6 and 1.10, from the Caerin family, are molecules that already showed antiviral effects against SARS-CoV-2 in silico. In addition to these peptides, this review suggests that future studies should use other families that already have antiviral action against other viruses, such as Brevinins, Maculatins, Esculentins, Temporins, and Urumins. To apply these peptides as therapeutic agents, experimental studies with peptides already tested in silico and new studies with other families not tested yet should be considered.
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6
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Sekar PC, Srinivasan E, Chandrasekhar G, Paul DM, Sanjay G, Surya S, Kumar NSAR, Rajasekaran R. Probing the competitive inhibitor efficacy of frog-skin alpha helical AMPs identified against ACE2 binding to SARS-CoV-2 S1 spike protein as therapeutic scaffold to prevent COVID-19. J Mol Model 2022; 28:128. [PMID: 35461388 PMCID: PMC9034900 DOI: 10.1007/s00894-022-05117-8] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/18/2021] [Accepted: 04/06/2022] [Indexed: 12/19/2022]
Abstract
In COVID-19 infection, the SARS-CoV-2 spike protein S1 interacts to the ACE2 receptor of human host, instigating the viral infection. To examine the competitive inhibitor efficacy of broad spectrum alpha helical AMPs extracted from frog skin, a comparative study of intermolecular interactions between viral S1 and AMPs was performed relative to S1-ACE2p interactions. The ACE2 binding region with S1 was extracted as ACE2p from the complex for ease of computation. Surprisingly, the Spike-Dermaseptin-S9 complex had more intermolecular interactions than the other peptide complexes and importantly, the S1-ACE2p complex. We observed how atomic displacements in docked complexes impacted structural integrity of a receptor-binding domain in S1 through conformational sampling analysis. Notably, this geometry-based sampling approach confers the robust interactions that endure in S1-Dermaseptin-S9 complex, demonstrating its conformational transition. Additionally, QM calculations revealed that the global hardness to resist chemical perturbations was found more in Dermaseptin-S9 compared to ACE2p. Moreover, the conventional MD through PCA and the torsional angle analyses indicated that Dermaseptin-S9 altered the conformations of S1 considerably. Our analysis further revealed the high structural stability of S1-Dermaseptin-S9 complex and particularly, the trajectory analysis of the secondary structural elements established the alpha helical conformations to be retained in S1-Dermaseptin-S9 complex, as substantiated by SMD results. In conclusion, the functional dynamics proved to be significant for viral Spike S1 and Dermaseptin-S9 peptide when compared to ACE2p complex. Hence, Dermaseptin-S9 peptide inhibitor could be a strong candidate for therapeutic scaffold to prevent infection of SARS-CoV-2.
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Affiliation(s)
- P Chandra Sekar
- Quantitative Biology Lab, Department of Biotechnology, School of Bio Sciences and Technology, VIT (Deemed to Be University), Vellore, Tamil Nadu, India
| | - E Srinivasan
- Quantitative Biology Lab, Department of Biotechnology, School of Bio Sciences and Technology, VIT (Deemed to Be University), Vellore, Tamil Nadu, India
- Department of Bioinformatics, Saveetha School of Engineering, Saveetha Institute of Medical and Technical Sciences (Deemed to Be University), Chennai, Tamil Nadu, India
| | - G Chandrasekhar
- Quantitative Biology Lab, Department of Biotechnology, School of Bio Sciences and Technology, VIT (Deemed to Be University), Vellore, Tamil Nadu, India
| | - D Meshach Paul
- Quantitative Biology Lab, Department of Biotechnology, School of Bio Sciences and Technology, VIT (Deemed to Be University), Vellore, Tamil Nadu, India
| | - G Sanjay
- Quantitative Biology Lab, Department of Biotechnology, School of Bio Sciences and Technology, VIT (Deemed to Be University), Vellore, Tamil Nadu, India
| | - S Surya
- Quantitative Biology Lab, Department of Biotechnology, School of Bio Sciences and Technology, VIT (Deemed to Be University), Vellore, Tamil Nadu, India
| | - N S Arun Raj Kumar
- Quantitative Biology Lab, Department of Biotechnology, School of Bio Sciences and Technology, VIT (Deemed to Be University), Vellore, Tamil Nadu, India
| | - R Rajasekaran
- Quantitative Biology Lab, Department of Biotechnology, School of Bio Sciences and Technology, VIT (Deemed to Be University), Vellore, Tamil Nadu, India.
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7
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Saeed SI, Mergani A, Aklilu E, Kamaruzzaman NF. Antimicrobial Peptides: Bringing Solution to the Rising Threats of Antimicrobial Resistance in Livestock. Front Vet Sci 2022; 9:851052. [PMID: 35464355 PMCID: PMC9024325 DOI: 10.3389/fvets.2022.851052] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/08/2022] [Accepted: 02/28/2022] [Indexed: 11/24/2022] Open
Abstract
Antimicrobial therapy is the most applied method for treating and preventing bacterial infection in livestock. However, it becomes less effective due to the development of antimicrobial resistance (AMR). Therefore, there is an urgent need to find new antimicrobials to reduce the rising rate of AMR. Recently, antimicrobial peptides (AMPs) have been receiving increasing attention due to their broad-spectrum antimicrobial activity, rapid killing activities, less toxicity, and cell selectivity. These features make them potent and potential alternative antimicrobials to be used in animals. Here, we discuss and summarize the AMPs in animals, classification, structures, mechanisms of action, and their potential use as novel therapeutic alternative antimicrobials to tackle the growing AMR threat.
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Affiliation(s)
- Shamsaldeen Ibrahim Saeed
- Faculty Veterinary Medicine, University Malaysia Kelantan, Pengkalan Chepa, Malaysia
- Faculty of Veterinary Science, University of Nyala, Nyala, Sudan
- *Correspondence: Shamsaldeen Ibrahim Saeed
| | - AhmedElmontaser Mergani
- Department of Biochemistry, University of Veterinary Medicine Hannover, Hanover, Germany
- Research Center for Emerging Infections and Zoonoses (RIZ), University of Veterinary Medicine Hannover, Hanover, Germany
- Department of Microbiology, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, University of Khartoum, Khartoum North, Sudan
| | - Erkihun Aklilu
- Faculty Veterinary Medicine, University Malaysia Kelantan, Pengkalan Chepa, Malaysia
| | - Nor Fadhilah Kamaruzzaman
- Faculty Veterinary Medicine, University Malaysia Kelantan, Pengkalan Chepa, Malaysia
- Nor Fadhilah Kamaruzzaman
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8
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Thompson C, Williams ML. Review of the physiological effects of Phyllomedusa bicolor skin secretion peptides on humans receiving Kambô. TOXICOLOGY RESEARCH AND APPLICATION 2022. [DOI: 10.1177/23978473221085746] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/15/2022] Open
Abstract
Kambô is an Amazonian ritual which includes the application of the defensive secretion of the Phyllomedusa bicolor frog to superficial burns made on the skin of human participants. The secretion, which contains a range of biologically active linear peptides, induces a short purgative experience that is extensively reported by participants to leave them with positive physical, emotional and spiritual after-effects. Various peptides identified in the secretion exert analgesic, vascular, and gastric effects in vivo, and antimicrobial and anti-cancer effects, among others, in vitro. While there has been some investigation into the physiological effects of various individual peptides isolated from the P. bicolor secretion, very little is known about the putative synergistic effects of concurrent administration of the complete substance through the transdermal methods used traditionally in the Kambô ritual. In this review and commentary, the authors summarize the existing biological information from animal research on peptides from the P. bicolor secretion, then consider the evidence in the context of Kambô administration to humans. The presented information suggests that specific peptides are likely to contribute to analogous physiological effects of Kambô in humans. The possibility that beyond their physiological action, the experiential or phenomenological component of these effects may have therapeutic applications is discussed, concluding with a consideration of the feasibility of human clinical research.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Martin L Williams
- Turner Institute of Brain and Mental Health, School of Psychological Sciences, Monash University, Melbourne, VIC, Australia
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9
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Kumari S, Booth V. Antimicrobial Peptide Mechanisms Studied by Whole-Cell Deuterium NMR. Int J Mol Sci 2022; 23:ijms23052740. [PMID: 35269882 PMCID: PMC8910884 DOI: 10.3390/ijms23052740] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/31/2022] [Revised: 02/24/2022] [Accepted: 02/26/2022] [Indexed: 12/29/2022] Open
Abstract
Much of the work probing antimicrobial peptide (AMP) mechanisms has focussed on how these molecules permeabilize lipid bilayers. However, AMPs must also traverse a variety of non-lipid cell envelope components before they reach the lipid bilayer. Additionally, there is a growing list of AMPs with non-lipid targets inside the cell. It is thus useful to extend the biophysical methods that have been traditionally applied to study AMP mechanisms in liposomes to the full bacteria, where the lipids are present along with the full complexity of the rest of the bacterium. This review focusses on what can be learned about AMP mechanisms from solid-state NMR of AMP-treated intact bacteria. It also touches on flow cytometry as a complementary method for measuring permeabilization of bacterial lipid membranes in whole bacteria.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sarika Kumari
- Department of Biochemistry, Memorial University of Newfoundland, St. John’s, NL A1C 5S7, Canada;
| | - Valerie Booth
- Department of Biochemistry, Memorial University of Newfoundland, St. John’s, NL A1C 5S7, Canada;
- Department of Physics and Physical Oceanography, Memorial University of Newfoundland, St. John’s, NL A1C 5S7, Canada
- Correspondence: ; Tel.: +1-709-864-4523
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10
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Exploration of the Structure-Function Relationships of a Novel Frog Skin Secretion-Derived Bioactive Peptide, t-DPH1, through Use of Rational Design, Cationicity Enhancement and In Vitro Studies. Antibiotics (Basel) 2021; 10:antibiotics10121529. [PMID: 34943741 PMCID: PMC8698721 DOI: 10.3390/antibiotics10121529] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/09/2021] [Revised: 12/08/2021] [Accepted: 12/11/2021] [Indexed: 01/11/2023] Open
Abstract
Amphibian skin-derived antimicrobial peptides (AMPs) have attracted increasing attention from scientists because of their excellent bioactivity and low drug resistance. In addition to being the alternative choice of antibiotics or anticancer agents, natural AMPs can also be modified as templates to optimise their bioactivities further. Here, a novel dermaseptin peptide, t-DPH1, with extensive antimicrobial activity and antiproliferative activity, was isolated from the skin secretion of Phyllomedusa hypochondrialis through 'shotgun' cloning. A series of cationicity-enhanced analogues of t-DPH1 were designed to further improve its bioactivities and explore the charge threshold of enhancing the bioactivity of t-DPH1. The present data suggest that improving the net charge can enhance the bioactivities to some extent. However, when the charge exceeds a specific limit, the bioactivities decrease or remain the same. When the net charge achieves the limit, improving the hydrophobicity makes no sense to enhance bioactivity. For t-DPH1, the upper limit of the net charge was +7. All the designed cationicity-enhanced analogues produced no drug resistance in the Gram-negative bacterium, Escherichia coli. These findings provide creative insights into the role of natural drug discovery in providing templates for structural modification for activity enhancement.
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11
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Hernández-Aristizábal I, Ocampo-Ibáñez ID. Antimicrobial Peptides with Antibacterial Activity against Vancomycin-Resistant Staphylococcus aureus Strains: Classification, Structures, and Mechanisms of Action. Int J Mol Sci 2021; 22:7927. [PMID: 34360692 PMCID: PMC8347216 DOI: 10.3390/ijms22157927] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/12/2021] [Revised: 07/15/2021] [Accepted: 07/19/2021] [Indexed: 12/27/2022] Open
Abstract
The emergence of bacteria resistant to conventional antibiotics is of great concern in modern medicine because it renders ineffectiveness of the current empirical antibiotic therapies. Infections caused by vancomycin-resistant Staphylococcus aureus (VRSA) and vancomycin-intermediate S. aureus (VISA) strains represent a serious threat to global health due to their considerable morbidity and mortality rates. Therefore, there is an urgent need of research and development of new antimicrobial alternatives against these bacteria. In this context, the use of antimicrobial peptides (AMPs) is considered a promising alternative therapeutic strategy to control resistant strains. Therefore, a wide number of natural, artificial, and synthetic AMPs have been evaluated against VRSA and VISA strains, with great potential for clinical application. In this regard, we aimed to present a comprehensive and systematic review of research findings on AMPs that have shown antibacterial activity against vancomycin-resistant and vancomycin-intermediate resistant strains and clinical isolates of S. aureus, discussing their classification and origin, physicochemical and structural characteristics, and possible action mechanisms. This is the first review that includes all peptides that have shown antibacterial activity against VRSA and VISA strains exclusively.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Iván Darío Ocampo-Ibáñez
- Research Group of Microbiology, Industry and Environment, Faculty of Basic Sciences, Universidad Santiago de Cali, Cali 760035, Colombia;
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12
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Xiong W, Zhou C, Yin S, Chai J, Zeng B, Wu J, Li Y, Li L, Xu X. Fejerlectin, a Lectin-like Peptide from the Skin of Fejervarya limnocharis, Inhibits HIV-1 Entry by Targeting Gp41. ACS OMEGA 2021; 6:6414-6423. [PMID: 33718732 PMCID: PMC7948434 DOI: 10.1021/acsomega.1c00033] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/04/2021] [Accepted: 02/09/2021] [Indexed: 06/12/2023]
Abstract
Human immunodeficiency virus type 1 (HIV-1) is mainly transmitted by sexual intercourse, and effective microbicides preventing HIV-1 transmission are still required. Amphibian skin is a rich source of defense peptides with antiviral activity. Here, we characterized a lectin-like peptide, fejerlectin (RLCYMVLPCP), isolated from the skin of the frog Fejervarya limnocharis. Fejerlectin showed significant hemagglutination and d-(+)-galacturonic acid-binding activities. Furthermore, fejerlectin suppressed the early entry of HIV-1 into target cells by binding to the N-terminal heptad repeat of HIV-1 gp41 and preventing 6-HB formation and Env-mediated membrane fusion. Fejerlectin is the smallest lectin-like peptide identified to date and represents a new and promising platform for anti-HIV-1 drug development.
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Affiliation(s)
- Weichen Xiong
- Guangdong
Provincial Key Laboratory of New Drug Screening, School of Pharmaceutical
Sciences, Southern Medical University, Shatai Nan Road, No. 1023-1063, Guangzhou 510515, China
| | - Chenliang Zhou
- Guangdong
Provincial Key Laboratory of New Drug Screening, School of Pharmaceutical
Sciences, Southern Medical University, Shatai Nan Road, No. 1023-1063, Guangzhou 510515, China
| | - Shuwen Yin
- Guangdong
Provincial Key Laboratory of New Drug Screening, School of Pharmaceutical
Sciences, Southern Medical University, Shatai Nan Road, No. 1023-1063, Guangzhou 510515, China
- Department
of Pharmacy, Sun Yat-sen University Cancer
Center, State Key Laboratory of Oncology in South China, Collaborative
Innovation Center for Cancer Medicine, Guangzhou 510060, China
| | - Jinwei Chai
- Guangdong
Provincial Key Laboratory of New Drug Screening, School of Pharmaceutical
Sciences, Southern Medical University, Shatai Nan Road, No. 1023-1063, Guangzhou 510515, China
| | - Baishuang Zeng
- Guangdong
Provincial Key Laboratory of New Drug Screening, School of Pharmaceutical
Sciences, Southern Medical University, Shatai Nan Road, No. 1023-1063, Guangzhou 510515, China
| | - Jiena Wu
- Guangdong
Provincial Key Laboratory of New Drug Screening, School of Pharmaceutical
Sciences, Southern Medical University, Shatai Nan Road, No. 1023-1063, Guangzhou 510515, China
| | - Yibin Li
- Guangdong
Provincial Key Laboratory of New Drug Screening, School of Pharmaceutical
Sciences, Southern Medical University, Shatai Nan Road, No. 1023-1063, Guangzhou 510515, China
| | - Lin Li
- Guangdong
Provincial Key Laboratory of New Drug Screening, School of Pharmaceutical
Sciences, Southern Medical University, Shatai Nan Road, No. 1023-1063, Guangzhou 510515, China
| | - Xueqing Xu
- Guangdong
Provincial Key Laboratory of New Drug Screening, School of Pharmaceutical
Sciences, Southern Medical University, Shatai Nan Road, No. 1023-1063, Guangzhou 510515, China
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13
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Gong Z, Pei X, Ren S, Chen X, Wang L, Ma C, Xi X, Chen T, Shaw C, Zhou M. Identification and Rational Design of a Novel Antibacterial Peptide Dermaseptin-AC from the Skin Secretion of the Red-Eyed Tree Frog Agalychnis callidryas. Antibiotics (Basel) 2020; 9:antibiotics9050243. [PMID: 32397600 PMCID: PMC7277532 DOI: 10.3390/antibiotics9050243] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/06/2020] [Revised: 05/04/2020] [Accepted: 05/08/2020] [Indexed: 12/21/2022] Open
Abstract
Antibiotic resistance represents a tremendous contemporary clinical challenge. Given this challenge, antimicrobial peptides (AMPs) are regarded as one of the most promising new options for next-generation lead antibiotics. Here, we describe the antibacterial activities of a cationic peptide named DRP-AC4, obtained from frog skin secretion using shotgun cloning. Two modified peptides were derived by substituting the sequence of amino acids to complete the hydrophobic face (DRP-AC4b) and increase net charge (DRP-AC4a), respectively. The activity and cytotoxicity of these two peptides were compared. DRP-AC4a displayed significantly increased potency against bacteria compared to the natural peptide. It should be noted, however, that both analogue peptides demonstrated higher lytic ability than the natural peptide against the membranes of mammalian erythrocytes. At the same time, all three peptides displayed lower hemolytic activity compared to their antibacterial activity. Here, we demonstrate that AMPs have more complex activity mechanisms and faster bactericidal rates than traditional antibiotics, which may be one of the reasons why bacteria do not develop resistance to them. These discoveries provide interesting insights into the discovery and development of novel drugs from natural sources.
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Affiliation(s)
- Zijian Gong
- Natural Drug Discovery Group, School of Pharmacy, Queen’s University Belfast, Belfast BT9 7BL, Northern Ireland, UK; (Z.G.); (X.P.); (C.M.); (X.X.); (T.C.); (C.S.); (M.Z.)
| | - Xinjie Pei
- Natural Drug Discovery Group, School of Pharmacy, Queen’s University Belfast, Belfast BT9 7BL, Northern Ireland, UK; (Z.G.); (X.P.); (C.M.); (X.X.); (T.C.); (C.S.); (M.Z.)
| | - Shen Ren
- College of Chinese Medicinal Materials, Jilin Agricultural University, Changchun 130118, China;
| | - Xiaoling Chen
- Natural Drug Discovery Group, School of Pharmacy, Queen’s University Belfast, Belfast BT9 7BL, Northern Ireland, UK; (Z.G.); (X.P.); (C.M.); (X.X.); (T.C.); (C.S.); (M.Z.)
- Correspondence: (X.C.); (L.W.); Tel.: +44-28-9097-2200 (X.C.); Fax: +44-28-9024-7794 (L.W.)
| | - Lei Wang
- Natural Drug Discovery Group, School of Pharmacy, Queen’s University Belfast, Belfast BT9 7BL, Northern Ireland, UK; (Z.G.); (X.P.); (C.M.); (X.X.); (T.C.); (C.S.); (M.Z.)
- Correspondence: (X.C.); (L.W.); Tel.: +44-28-9097-2200 (X.C.); Fax: +44-28-9024-7794 (L.W.)
| | - Chengbang Ma
- Natural Drug Discovery Group, School of Pharmacy, Queen’s University Belfast, Belfast BT9 7BL, Northern Ireland, UK; (Z.G.); (X.P.); (C.M.); (X.X.); (T.C.); (C.S.); (M.Z.)
| | - Xinping Xi
- Natural Drug Discovery Group, School of Pharmacy, Queen’s University Belfast, Belfast BT9 7BL, Northern Ireland, UK; (Z.G.); (X.P.); (C.M.); (X.X.); (T.C.); (C.S.); (M.Z.)
| | - Tianbao Chen
- Natural Drug Discovery Group, School of Pharmacy, Queen’s University Belfast, Belfast BT9 7BL, Northern Ireland, UK; (Z.G.); (X.P.); (C.M.); (X.X.); (T.C.); (C.S.); (M.Z.)
| | - Chris Shaw
- Natural Drug Discovery Group, School of Pharmacy, Queen’s University Belfast, Belfast BT9 7BL, Northern Ireland, UK; (Z.G.); (X.P.); (C.M.); (X.X.); (T.C.); (C.S.); (M.Z.)
| | - Mei Zhou
- Natural Drug Discovery Group, School of Pharmacy, Queen’s University Belfast, Belfast BT9 7BL, Northern Ireland, UK; (Z.G.); (X.P.); (C.M.); (X.X.); (T.C.); (C.S.); (M.Z.)
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14
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Migoń D, Jaśkiewicz M, Neubauer D, Bauer M, Sikorska E, Kamysz E, Kamysz W. Alanine Scanning Studies of the Antimicrobial Peptide Aurein 1.2. Probiotics Antimicrob Proteins 2020; 11:1042-1054. [PMID: 30569430 PMCID: PMC6695355 DOI: 10.1007/s12602-018-9501-0] [Citation(s) in RCA: 20] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/04/2022]
Abstract
Antimicrobial peptides (AMPs) are compounds widely distributed in nature that display activity against a broad spectrum of pathogens. Amphibian skin, as an organ rich in pharmacologically active peptides, appears to be an interesting source of novel AMPs. Aurein 1.2 (GLFDIIKKIAESF-NH2) is a short 13-residue antimicrobial peptide primarily isolated from the skin secretions of Australian bell frogs. In this study, the alanine scan of aurein 1.2 was performed to investigate the effect of each amino acid residue on its biological and physico-chemical properties. The biological studies included determination of minimum inhibitory concentration, activity against biofilm, and inhibitory effect on its formation. Moreover, the hemolytic activity as well as serum stability was determined. The hydrophobicity of peptides and their self-assembly were investigated using reversed-phase chromatography. In addition, their helicity was calculated from circular dichroism spectra. The results not only provided information on structure-activity relationship of aurein 1.2 but also gave insights into design of novel analogs of AMPs in the future.
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Affiliation(s)
- Dorian Migoń
- Department of Inorganic Chemistry, Faculty of Pharmacy, Medical University of Gdańsk, Al. Gen. J. Hallera 107, 80-416, Gdańsk, Poland. .,Polpharma Biologics, Gdańsk, Poland.
| | - Maciej Jaśkiewicz
- Department of Inorganic Chemistry, Faculty of Pharmacy, Medical University of Gdańsk, Al. Gen. J. Hallera 107, 80-416, Gdańsk, Poland
| | - Damian Neubauer
- Department of Inorganic Chemistry, Faculty of Pharmacy, Medical University of Gdańsk, Al. Gen. J. Hallera 107, 80-416, Gdańsk, Poland
| | - Marta Bauer
- Department of Inorganic Chemistry, Faculty of Pharmacy, Medical University of Gdańsk, Al. Gen. J. Hallera 107, 80-416, Gdańsk, Poland
| | | | | | - Wojciech Kamysz
- Department of Inorganic Chemistry, Faculty of Pharmacy, Medical University of Gdańsk, Al. Gen. J. Hallera 107, 80-416, Gdańsk, Poland
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15
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Patocka J, Nepovimova E, Klimova B, Wu Q, Kuca K. Antimicrobial Peptides: Amphibian Host Defense Peptides. Curr Med Chem 2019; 26:5924-5946. [PMID: 30009702 DOI: 10.2174/0929867325666180713125314] [Citation(s) in RCA: 54] [Impact Index Per Article: 10.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/03/2017] [Revised: 03/05/2018] [Accepted: 07/06/2018] [Indexed: 02/07/2023]
Abstract
Antimicrobial Peptides (AMPs) are one of the most common components of the innate immune system that protect multicellular organisms against microbial invasion. The vast majority of AMPs are isolated from the frog skin. Anuran (frogs and toads) skin contains abundant AMPs that can be developed therapeutically. Such peptides are a unique but diverse group of molecules. In general, more than 50% of the amino acid residues form the hydrophobic part of the molecule. Normally, there are no conserved structural motifs responsible for activity, although the vast majority of the AMPs are cationic due to the presence of multiple lysine residues; this cationicity has a close relationship with antibacterial activity. Notably, recent evidence suggests that synthesis of AMPs in frog skin may confer an advantage on a particular species, although they are not essential for survival. Frog skin AMPs exert potent activity against antibiotic-resistant bacteria, protozoa, yeasts, and fungi by permeating and destroying the plasma membrane and inactivating intracellular targets. Importantly, since they do not bind to a specific receptor, AMPs are less likely to induce resistance mechanisms. Currently, the best known amphibian AMPs are esculentins, brevinins, ranacyclins, ranatuerins, nigrocin-2, magainins, dermaseptins, bombinins, temporins, and japonicins-1 and -2, and palustrin-2. This review focuses on these frog skin AMPs and the mechanisms underlying their antimicrobial activity. We hope that this review will provide further information that will facilitate further study of AMPs and cast new light on novel and safer microbicides.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jiri Patocka
- Department of Radiology and Toxicology, Faculty of Health and Social Studies, University of South Bohemia Ceske Budejovice, Ceske Budejovice, Czech Republic
| | - Eugenie Nepovimova
- Department of Chemistry, Faculty of Science, University of Hradec Kralove, Hradec Kralove, Czech Republic
| | - Blanka Klimova
- Faculty of Informatics and Management, University of Hradec Kralove, Hradec Kralove, Czech Republic
| | - Qinghua Wu
- College of Life Science, Institute of Biomedicine, Yangtze University, Jingzhou 434025, China
| | - Kamil Kuca
- Department of Chemistry, Faculty of Science, University of Hradec Kralove, Hradec Kralove, Czech Republic
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16
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A Novel Dermaseptin Isolated from the Skin Secretion of Phyllomedusa tarsius and Its Cationicity-Enhanced Analogue Exhibiting Effective Antimicrobial and Anti-Proliferative Activities. Biomolecules 2019; 9:biom9100628. [PMID: 31635388 PMCID: PMC6843903 DOI: 10.3390/biom9100628] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/09/2019] [Revised: 10/10/2019] [Accepted: 10/17/2019] [Indexed: 12/14/2022] Open
Abstract
A novel dermaseptin peptide, dermaseptin-PT9 (DPT9), was isolated and identified from Phyllomedusa tarsius by the combination of molecular cloning and LC-MS analysis. Chemically synthesised DPT9 was broadly effective against the tested microorganisms through the disruption of cell membranes and showed weak haemolytic activity towards horse erythrocytes. It also exhibited anti-proliferative effect against various human cancer cells. Moreover, an analogue with enhanced cationicity, K8, 23-DPT9, in which Asp8 and Glu23 were substituted by lysine residues, had a markedly increased antimicrobial effect against all tested microorganisms and disrupted microbial cell membranes. This analogue also showed no haemolysis at its effective antimicrobial concentrations. In addition, K8, 23-DPT9 displayed an enhanced anti-proliferative effect against cancer cells, while displayed weak activity against the normal human cell line, HMEC-1.
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17
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Yang M, Hu J, Xia M, Wang Y, Tian F, Li W, Sun Y, Zhou Z. Zinc pyrithione induces immobilization of human spermatozoa and suppresses the response of the cAMP/PKA signaling pathway. Eur J Pharm Sci 2019; 137:104984. [PMID: 31276740 DOI: 10.1016/j.ejps.2019.104984] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/15/2019] [Revised: 06/18/2019] [Accepted: 07/01/2019] [Indexed: 11/29/2022]
Abstract
Zinc pyrithione (ZPT), a zinc coordination complex, is used as an antimicrobial agent. This study investigated the molecular mechanisms underlying ZPT-induced spermatozoa immobilization by examining plasma membrane integrity, mitochondrial dysfunction, and the cAMP/PKA signaling pathway response. ZPT inhibited spermatozoa motility and movement patterns in a concentration-dependent manner. The 100% effective concentration (EC100) and median effective concentration (EC50) at which ZPT-induced spermatozoa immobilization at 20 s were 40 μmol/L and 16.19 μmol/L, respectively. ZPT did not significantly disrupt spermatozoa plasma membranes, but it exerted a strong and significant effect on the depolarization of mitochondria. In addition, ZPT exposure induced intracellular H+ accumulation and Ca2+ dissipation in spermatozoa, accompanied by suppression of the cAMP/PKA signaling pathway. Thus, ZPT induces spermatozoa immobilization without significant plasma membrane injury and so could be a candidate microbicidal spermicide.
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Affiliation(s)
- Mingjun Yang
- NHC Key Laboratory of Reproduction Regulation (Shanghai Institute of Planned Parenthood Research), Fudan University, Shanghai 200032, China
| | - Jingying Hu
- NHC Key Laboratory of Reproduction Regulation (Shanghai Institute of Planned Parenthood Research), Fudan University, Shanghai 200032, China
| | - Minjie Xia
- NHC Key Laboratory of Reproduction Regulation (Shanghai Institute of Planned Parenthood Research), Fudan University, Shanghai 200032, China
| | - Yuzhu Wang
- NHC Key Laboratory of Reproduction Regulation (Shanghai Institute of Planned Parenthood Research), Fudan University, Shanghai 200032, China
| | - Fang Tian
- NHC Key Laboratory of Reproduction Regulation (Shanghai Institute of Planned Parenthood Research), Fudan University, Shanghai 200032, China
| | - Weihua Li
- NHC Key Laboratory of Reproduction Regulation (Shanghai Institute of Planned Parenthood Research), Fudan University, Shanghai 200032, China.
| | - Yinqiang Sun
- Experiment Center for Science and Technology, Shanghai University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Shanghai 201203, China.
| | - Zhijun Zhou
- School of Public Health/MOE Key Laboratory of Public Health Safety of Ministry of Education/NHC Key Lab of Health Technology Assessment, Fudan University, Shanghai 200032, China.
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18
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Ross DV, Suzina NE, Gafarov AB, Machulin AV, Esikova TZ, Shorokhova AP, Duda VI, Boronin AM. Characterization of Ultrasmall Chryseobacterium Strains FM1 and FM2 Isolated from Xenopus laevis Skin. Microbiology (Reading) 2019. [DOI: 10.1134/s0026261719020103] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/23/2022] Open
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19
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Yang M, Zhi R, Lu L, Dong M, Wang Y, Tian F, Xia M, Hu J, Dai Q, Jiang S, Li W. A CCR5 antagonist-based HIV entry inhibitor exhibited potent spermicidal activity: Potential application for contraception and prevention of HIV sexual transmission. Eur J Pharm Sci 2018; 117:313-320. [PMID: 29496533 DOI: 10.1016/j.ejps.2018.02.026] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/11/2018] [Revised: 02/09/2018] [Accepted: 02/22/2018] [Indexed: 12/31/2022]
Abstract
B07 is a small-molecule CCR5 antagonist-based HIV-1 entry inhibitor that is being developed as an anti-HIV microbicide for preventing sexual transmission of HIV. Here we evaluated its spermicidal and contraceptive potential, including sperm motility, plasma membrane integrity, and contraceptive efficacy tested in rabbits. We found that B07 inhibited sperm motility and movement patterns in a concentration- and time-dependent manner. Within 30 min, B07 induced sperm immobilization with the minimum 100% effective concentration and median effective concentration of 640.0 and 64.4 μg/mL, respectively. The hypo-osmotic swelling test showed that plasma membranes of B07-treated sperms exhibited slight disruption, as verified by electron micrographs. In both B07 gel and N-9 gel groups, not a single implantation site or embryo was observed based on the contraceptive efficacy test in rabbits, indicating that B07 could effectively block the potential of sperm to reach and/or fertilize oocytes. The safety profile of B07 in vivo was evaluated by use of an optimized rabbit vaginal irritation test. While the pathological scores of the N-9 gel group was 14.67 ± 1.21, those of the blank control and B07 gel groups were 2.17 ± 0.76 and 4.00 ± 0.89, respectively, which were within the clinically acceptable range (<8). The proportion of inflammatory cells and CD45+ cells in the cervicovaginal lavages of the B07 gel group showed no significant change compared to those of the control group. Therefore, our results confirmed that B07 exhibited significant spermicidal and contraceptive effects, suggesting its potential for development as a microbicidal spermicide for contraception and prevention of HIV sexual transmission.
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Affiliation(s)
- Mingjun Yang
- Key Laboratory of Reproduction Regulation of National Population and Family Planning Commission, Shanghai Institute of Planned Parenthood Research, Institute of Reproduction and Development, Fudan University, People's Republic of China
| | - Ruina Zhi
- Key Laboratory of Reproduction Regulation of National Population and Family Planning Commission, Shanghai Institute of Planned Parenthood Research, Institute of Reproduction and Development, Fudan University, People's Republic of China
| | - Lu Lu
- Key Laboratory of Medical Molecular Virology of MOE/MOH, School of Basic Medical Sciences, Fudan University, Shanghai, People's Republic of China
| | - Mingxin Dong
- Beijing Institute of Biotechnology, Beijing, People's Republic of China
| | - Yuzhu Wang
- Key Laboratory of Reproduction Regulation of National Population and Family Planning Commission, Shanghai Institute of Planned Parenthood Research, Institute of Reproduction and Development, Fudan University, People's Republic of China
| | - Fang Tian
- Key Laboratory of Reproduction Regulation of National Population and Family Planning Commission, Shanghai Institute of Planned Parenthood Research, Institute of Reproduction and Development, Fudan University, People's Republic of China
| | - Minjie Xia
- Key Laboratory of Reproduction Regulation of National Population and Family Planning Commission, Shanghai Institute of Planned Parenthood Research, Institute of Reproduction and Development, Fudan University, People's Republic of China
| | - Jingying Hu
- Key Laboratory of Reproduction Regulation of National Population and Family Planning Commission, Shanghai Institute of Planned Parenthood Research, Institute of Reproduction and Development, Fudan University, People's Republic of China
| | - Qiuyun Dai
- Beijing Institute of Biotechnology, Beijing, People's Republic of China
| | - Shibo Jiang
- Key Laboratory of Reproduction Regulation of National Population and Family Planning Commission, Shanghai Institute of Planned Parenthood Research, Institute of Reproduction and Development, Fudan University, People's Republic of China; Key Laboratory of Medical Molecular Virology of MOE/MOH, School of Basic Medical Sciences, Fudan University, Shanghai, People's Republic of China; Lindsley F. Kimball Research Institute, New York Blood Center, New York, United States.
| | - Weihua Li
- Key Laboratory of Reproduction Regulation of National Population and Family Planning Commission, Shanghai Institute of Planned Parenthood Research, Institute of Reproduction and Development, Fudan University, People's Republic of China.
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20
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Kumar P, Kizhakkedathu JN, Straus SK. Antimicrobial Peptides: Diversity, Mechanism of Action and Strategies to Improve the Activity and Biocompatibility In Vivo. Biomolecules 2018; 8:E4. [PMID: 29351202 PMCID: PMC5871973 DOI: 10.3390/biom8010004] [Citation(s) in RCA: 651] [Impact Index Per Article: 108.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/20/2017] [Revised: 01/12/2018] [Accepted: 01/12/2018] [Indexed: 02/06/2023] Open
Abstract
Antibiotic resistance is projected as one of the greatest threats to human health in the future and hence alternatives are being explored to combat resistance. Antimicrobial peptides (AMPs) have shown great promise, because use of AMPs leads bacteria to develop no or low resistance. In this review, we discuss the diversity, history and the various mechanisms of action of AMPs. Although many AMPs have reached clinical trials, to date not many have been approved by the US Food and Drug Administration (FDA) due to issues with toxicity, protease cleavage and short half-life. Some of the recent strategies developed to improve the activity and biocompatibility of AMPs, such as chemical modifications and the use of delivery systems, are also reviewed in this article.
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Affiliation(s)
- Prashant Kumar
- Department of Chemistry, University of British Columbia, 2036 Main Mall, Vancouver, BC V6T 1Z1, Canada.
- Centre for Blood Research, Department of Pathology and Laboratory Medicine, University of British Columbia, 2350 Health Sciences Mall, Life Sciences Centre, Vancouver, BC V6T 1Z3, Canada.
| | - Jayachandran N Kizhakkedathu
- Department of Chemistry, University of British Columbia, 2036 Main Mall, Vancouver, BC V6T 1Z1, Canada.
- Centre for Blood Research, Department of Pathology and Laboratory Medicine, University of British Columbia, 2350 Health Sciences Mall, Life Sciences Centre, Vancouver, BC V6T 1Z3, Canada.
| | - Suzana K Straus
- Department of Chemistry, University of British Columbia, 2036 Main Mall, Vancouver, BC V6T 1Z1, Canada.
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21
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Kenny LC, Kell DB. Immunological Tolerance, Pregnancy, and Preeclampsia: The Roles of Semen Microbes and the Father. Front Med (Lausanne) 2018; 4:239. [PMID: 29354635 PMCID: PMC5758600 DOI: 10.3389/fmed.2017.00239] [Citation(s) in RCA: 32] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/10/2017] [Accepted: 12/12/2017] [Indexed: 12/18/2022] Open
Abstract
Although it is widely considered, in many cases, to involve two separable stages (poor placentation followed by oxidative stress/inflammation), the precise originating causes of preeclampsia (PE) remain elusive. We have previously brought together some of the considerable evidence that a (dormant) microbial component is commonly a significant part of its etiology. However, apart from recognizing, consistent with this view, that the many inflammatory markers of PE are also increased in infection, we had little to say about immunity, whether innate or adaptive. In addition, we focused on the gut, oral and female urinary tract microbiomes as the main sources of the infection. We here marshall further evidence for an infectious component in PE, focusing on the immunological tolerance characteristic of pregnancy, and the well-established fact that increased exposure to the father's semen assists this immunological tolerance. As well as these benefits, however, semen is not sterile, microbial tolerance mechanisms may exist, and we also review the evidence that semen may be responsible for inoculating the developing conceptus (and maybe the placenta) with microbes, not all of which are benign. It is suggested that when they are not, this may be a significant cause of PE. A variety of epidemiological and other evidence is entirely consistent with this, not least correlations between semen infection, infertility and PE. Our view also leads to a series of other, testable predictions. Overall, we argue for a significant paternal role in the development of PE through microbial infection of the mother via insemination.
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Affiliation(s)
- Louise C. Kenny
- The Irish Centre for Fetal and Neonatal Translational Research (INFANT), University College Cork, Cork, Ireland
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, University College Cork, Cork, Ireland
- Faculty of Health and Life Sciences, University of Liverpool, Liverpool, United Kingdom
| | - Douglas B. Kell
- School of Chemistry, The University of Manchester, Manchester, United Kingdom
- The Manchester Institute of Biotechnology, The University of Manchester, Manchester, United Kingdom
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22
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Conlon JM, Moffett RC, Leprince J, Flatt PR. Identification of Components in Frog Skin Secretions with Therapeutic Potential as Antidiabetic Agents. Methods Mol Biol 2018; 1719:319-333. [PMID: 29476521 DOI: 10.1007/978-1-4939-7537-2_21] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 06/08/2023]
Abstract
Several peptides that were first identified on the basis of their antimicrobial or immunomodulatory properties have subsequently shown potential for development into agents for the treatment of patients with Type 2 diabetes. A strategy is presented for the isolation and characterization of such peptides in norepinephrine-stimulated skin secretions from a range of frog species. The methodology involves fractionation of the secretions by reversed-phase HPLC, identification of fractions containing components that stimulate the rate of release of insulin from BRIN-BD11 clonal β-cells without simultaneously stimulating the release of lactate dehydrogenase, identification of active peptides in the mass range 1-6 kDa by MALDI-TOF mass spectrometry, purification of the peptides to near homogeneity by further HPLC, and structural characterization by automated Edman degradation. The effect of synthetic replicates of the active peptides on glucose homeostasis in vivo may be evaluated in mice fed a high fat diet to produce obesity, glucose intolerance, and insulin resistance.
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Affiliation(s)
- J Michael Conlon
- SAAD Centre for Pharmacy and Diabetes, School of Biomedical Sciences, University of Ulster, Coleraine, UK.
| | - R Charlotte Moffett
- SAAD Centre for Pharmacy and Diabetes, School of Biomedical Sciences, University of Ulster, Coleraine, UK
| | | | - Peter R Flatt
- SAAD Centre for Pharmacy and Diabetes, School of Biomedical Sciences, University of Ulster, Coleraine, UK
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23
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Marani MM, Perez LO, de Araujo AR, Plácido A, Sousa CF, Quelemes PV, Oliveira M, Gomes-Alves AG, Pueta M, Gameiro P, Tomás AM, Delerue-Matos C, Eaton P, Camperi SA, Basso NG, de Souza de Almeida Leite JR. Thaulin-1: The first antimicrobial peptide isolated from the skin of a Patagonian frog Pleurodema thaul (Anura: Leptodactylidae: Leiuperinae) with activity against Escherichia coli. Gene 2017; 605:70-80. [DOI: 10.1016/j.gene.2016.12.020] [Citation(s) in RCA: 16] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/13/2016] [Revised: 11/19/2016] [Accepted: 12/20/2016] [Indexed: 11/16/2022]
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24
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Discovery of Novel Bacterial Cell-Penetrating Phylloseptins in Defensive Skin Secretions of the South American Hylid Frogs, Phyllomedusa duellmani and Phyllomedusa coelestis. Toxins (Basel) 2016; 8:toxins8090255. [PMID: 27589802 PMCID: PMC5037481 DOI: 10.3390/toxins8090255] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/08/2016] [Accepted: 08/22/2016] [Indexed: 02/03/2023] Open
Abstract
Phylloseptin (PS) peptides, derived from South American hylid frogs (subfamily Phyllomedusinae), have been found to have broad-spectrum antimicrobial activities and relatively low haemolytic activities. Although PS peptides have been identified from several well-known and widely-distributed species of the Phyllomedusinae, there remains merit in their study in additional, more obscure and specialised members of this taxon. Here, we report the discovery of two novel PS peptides, named PS-Du and PS-Co, which were respectively identified for the first time and isolated from the skin secretions of Phyllomedusa duellmani and Phyllomedusa coelestis. Their encoding cDNAs were cloned, from which it was possible to deduce the entire primary structures of their biosynthetic precursors. Reversed-phase high-performance liquid chromatography (RP-HPLC) and tandem mass spectrometry (MS/MS) analyses were employed to isolate and structurally-characterise respective encoded PS peptides from skin secretions. The peptides had molecular masses of 2049.7 Da (PS-Du) and 1972.8 Da (PS-Co). They shared typical N-terminal sequences and C-terminal amidation with other known phylloseptins. The two peptides exhibited growth inhibitory activity against E. coli (NCTC 10418), as a standard Gram-negative bacterium, S. aureus (NCTC 10788), as a standard Gram-positive bacterium and C. albicans (NCPF 1467), as a standard pathogenic yeast, all as planktonic cultures. Moreover, both peptides demonstrated the capability of eliminating S. aureus biofilm.
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25
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Tanphaichitr N, Srakaew N, Alonzi R, Kiattiburut W, Kongmanas K, Zhi R, Li W, Baker M, Wang G, Hickling D. Potential Use of Antimicrobial Peptides as Vaginal Spermicides/Microbicides. Pharmaceuticals (Basel) 2016; 9:E13. [PMID: 26978373 PMCID: PMC4812377 DOI: 10.3390/ph9010013] [Citation(s) in RCA: 28] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/25/2016] [Revised: 03/01/2016] [Accepted: 03/03/2016] [Indexed: 12/11/2022] Open
Abstract
The concurrent increases in global population and sexually transmitted infection (STI) demand a search for agents with dual spermicidal and microbicidal properties for topical vaginal application. Previous attempts to develop the surfactant spermicide, nonoxynol-9 (N-9), into a vaginal microbicide were unsuccessful largely due to its inefficiency to kill microbes. Furthermore, N-9 causes damage to the vaginal epithelium, thus accelerating microbes to enter the women's body. For this reason, antimicrobial peptides (AMPs), naturally secreted by all forms of life as part of innate immunity, deserve evaluation for their potential spermicidal effects. To date, twelve spermicidal AMPs have been described including LL-37, magainin 2 and nisin A. Human cathelicidin LL-37 is the most promising spermicidal AMP to be further developed for vaginal use for the following reasons. First, it is a human AMP naturally produced in the vagina after intercourse. Second, LL-37 exerts microbicidal effects to numerous microbes including those that cause STI. Third, its cytotoxicity is selective to sperm and not to the female reproductive tract. Furthermore, the spermicidal effects of LL-37 have been demonstrated in vivo in mice. Therefore, the availability of LL-37 as a vaginal spermicide/microbicide will empower women for self-protection against unwanted pregnancies and STI.
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Affiliation(s)
- Nongnuj Tanphaichitr
- Chronic Disease Program, Ottawa Hospital Research Institute, Ottawa, Ontario K1H 8L6, ON, Canada.
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Faculty of Medicine, University of Ottawa, Ottawa, Ontario K1H 8L6, ON, Canada.
- Department of Biochemistry, Microbiology, Immunology, Faculty of Medicine, University of Ottawa, Ottawa, Ontario K1H 8M5, ON, Canada.
| | - Nopparat Srakaew
- Chronic Disease Program, Ottawa Hospital Research Institute, Ottawa, Ontario K1H 8L6, ON, Canada.
- Department of Zoology, Faculty of Science, Kasetsart University, Bangkok 10900, Thailand.
| | - Rhea Alonzi
- Chronic Disease Program, Ottawa Hospital Research Institute, Ottawa, Ontario K1H 8L6, ON, Canada.
- Department of Biochemistry, Microbiology, Immunology, Faculty of Medicine, University of Ottawa, Ottawa, Ontario K1H 8M5, ON, Canada.
| | - Wongsakorn Kiattiburut
- Chronic Disease Program, Ottawa Hospital Research Institute, Ottawa, Ontario K1H 8L6, ON, Canada.
| | - Kessiri Kongmanas
- Chronic Disease Program, Ottawa Hospital Research Institute, Ottawa, Ontario K1H 8L6, ON, Canada.
- Division of Dengue Hemorrhagic Fever Research Unit, Office of Research and Development, Faculty of Medicine Siriraj Hospital, Mahidol University, Bangkok 10700, Thailand.
| | - Ruina Zhi
- Chronic Disease Program, Ottawa Hospital Research Institute, Ottawa, Ontario K1H 8L6, ON, Canada.
- Key Laboratory of Reproduction Regulation of NPFPC, Shanghai Institute of Planned Parenthood Research, and School of Public Health, Fudan University, Shanghai 200032, China.
| | - Weihua Li
- Key Laboratory of Reproduction Regulation of NPFPC, Shanghai Institute of Planned Parenthood Research, and School of Public Health, Fudan University, Shanghai 200032, China.
| | - Mark Baker
- Reproductive Proteomics, Department of Science and Information technology, University of Newcastle, Callaghan Drive, Newcastle, NSW 2308 Australia.
| | - Guanshun Wang
- Department of Pathology and Microbiology, College of Medicine, University of Nebraska Medical Center, 986495 Nebraska Medical Center, Omaha, NE 68198-6495, USA.
| | - Duane Hickling
- Chronic Disease Program, Ottawa Hospital Research Institute, Ottawa, Ontario K1H 8L6, ON, Canada.
- Division of Urology, Department of Surgery, Faculty of Medicine, University of Ottawa, Ottawa, Ontario K1Y 4E9, ON, Canada.
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Epand RM. Antiviral Host Defence Peptides. HOST DEFENSE PEPTIDES AND THEIR POTENTIAL AS THERAPEUTIC AGENTS 2016. [PMCID: PMC7123656 DOI: 10.1007/978-3-319-32949-9_3] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/26/2022]
Abstract
The ongoing global mortality and morbidity associated with viral pathogens highlights the need for the continued development of effective, novel antiviral molecules. The antiviral activity of cationic host defence peptides is of significant interest as novel therapeutics for treating viral infection and predominantly due to their broad spectrum antiviral activity. These peptides also display powerful immunomodulatory activity and are key mediators of inflammation. Therefore, they offer a significant opportunity to inform the development of novel therapeutics for treating viral infections by either directly targeting the pathogen or by enhancing the innate immune response. In this chapter, we review the antiviral activity of cathelicidins and defensins, and examine the potential for these peptides to be used as novel antiviral agents.
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Affiliation(s)
- Richard M. Epand
- Health Sciences Centre, McMaster University, Hamilton, Ontario Canada
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VanCompernolle S, Smith PB, Bowie JH, Tyler MJ, Unutmaz D, Rollins-Smith LA. Inhibition of HIV infection by caerin 1 antimicrobial peptides. Peptides 2015; 71:296-303. [PMID: 26026377 DOI: 10.1016/j.peptides.2015.05.004] [Citation(s) in RCA: 21] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/07/2015] [Revised: 05/14/2015] [Accepted: 05/16/2015] [Indexed: 10/23/2022]
Abstract
The major mode of transmission of the human immunodeficiency virus (HIV) is by sexual intercourse. In the effort to halt the spread of HIV, one measure that holds great promise is the development of effective microbicides that can prevent transmission. Previously we showed that several amphibian antimicrobial peptides (AMPs) completely inhibit HIV infection of T cells while maintaining good viability of the T cell targets. These peptides also inhibited the transfer of HIV by dendritic cells (DCs) to T cells when added up to 8h after virus exposure. Here we report on the anti-HIV activity of 18 additional structurally related caerin 1 family peptides in comparison with our previous best candidate caerin 1.9. Nine peptides were equally effective or more effective in the inhibition of T cell infection and disruption of the HIV envelope as caerin 1.9. Of those nine peptides, three peptides (caerin 1.2, caerin 1.10, and caerin 1.20) exhibited excellent inhibition of HIV infectivity at low concentrations (12-25μM) and limited toxicity against target T cells and endocervical epithelial cells. There was a direct correlation between the effectiveness of the peptides in disruption of the viral envelope and their capacity to inhibit infection. Thus, several additional caerin 1 family peptides inhibit HIV infection have limited toxicity for vaginal epithelial cells, and would be good candidates for inclusion in microbicide formulations.
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Affiliation(s)
- Scott VanCompernolle
- Department of Pathology, Microbiology and Immunology, Vanderbilt University School of Medicine, Nashville, TN 37232, United States
| | - Patricia B Smith
- Department of Pathology, Microbiology and Immunology, Vanderbilt University School of Medicine, Nashville, TN 37232, United States
| | - John H Bowie
- Department of Chemistry, The University of Adelaide, Australia
| | - Michael J Tyler
- Department of Environmental Biology, The University of Adelaide, Australia
| | - Derya Unutmaz
- Department of Microbiology, The Jackson Laboratory for Genomic Medicine, Farmington, CT 06032, United States
| | - Louise A Rollins-Smith
- Departments of Pathology, Microbiology and Immunology, and of Pediatrics, Vanderbilt University School of Medicine, Nashville, TN 37232, United States; Department of Biological Sciences, Vanderbilt University, Nashville, TN 37235, United States.
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Zare-Zardini H, Fesahat F, Anbari F, Halvaei I, Ebrahimi L. Assessment of spermicidal activity of the antimicrobial peptide sarcotoxin Pd: A potent contraceptive agent. EUR J CONTRACEP REPR 2015; 21:15-21. [PMID: 26052043 DOI: 10.3109/13625187.2015.1052395] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/04/2023]
Abstract
OBJECTIVES In searching for new spermicidal microbicides for use in the prevention of unplanned pregnancy and sexually transmitted infections (STIs) we investigated the spermicidal and cytotoxicity activities of the antimicrobial peptide sarcotoxin Pd. METHODS Washed sperm from 10 healthy, normal volunteers was treated with different concentrations of sarcotoxin Pd. Sperm motility and morphology were assessed at 0, 0.3, 5, 10 and 15 min. The cytotoxicity of sarcotoxin Pd in normal human cervical HeLa cells was measured. Percentage cell survival was expressed as the number of live cells in the test group. RESULTS The cytotoxic effect of sarcotoxin Pd was concentration-dependent. Significant cytotoxicity was observed at concentrations above 24 μg/ml. Sarcotoxin Pd immobilised 100% of spermatozoa at a dose of 90 and 80 μg/ml after 0.3 and 5 min, respectively, and immobilised 50% of spermatozoa after 15 min at lower doses. Sarcotoxin Pd inhibited sperm motility in a dose-dependent manner. The peptide immobilised sperm within 20 s at its maximal effective concentration of 90 μg/ml. CONCLUSIONS Sarcotoxin Pd appears to be a good candidate for a contraceptive agent in the prevention of unplanned pregnancy and STIs.
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Affiliation(s)
- Hadi Zare-Zardini
- a Young Researchers and Elite Club, Yazd Branch, Islamic Azad University , Yazd , Iran.,b Pediatric Hematology and Oncology Research Center, Shahid Sadoughi University of Medical Sciences and Health Services , Yazd , Iran
| | - Farzaneh Fesahat
- c Research and Clinical Center for Infertility, Shahid Sadoughi University of Medical Sciences , Yazd , Iran.,d Faculty of Medicine, Shahid Sadoughi University of Medical Sciences , Yazd , Iran
| | - Fatemeh Anbari
- c Research and Clinical Center for Infertility, Shahid Sadoughi University of Medical Sciences , Yazd , Iran
| | - Iman Halvaei
- c Research and Clinical Center for Infertility, Shahid Sadoughi University of Medical Sciences , Yazd , Iran
| | - Leila Ebrahimi
- e Blood Transfusion Research Center, High Institute for Research and Education in Transfusion Medicine , Tehran , Iran
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Tu J, Li D, Li Q, Zhang L, Zhu Q, Gaur U, Fan X, Xu H, Yao Y, Zhao X, Yang M. Molecular Evolutionary Analysis of β-Defensin Peptides in Vertebrates. Evol Bioinform Online 2015; 11:105-14. [PMID: 26056425 PMCID: PMC4451809 DOI: 10.4137/ebo.s25580] [Citation(s) in RCA: 29] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/12/2015] [Revised: 04/14/2015] [Accepted: 04/20/2015] [Indexed: 01/09/2023] Open
Abstract
Vertebrate β-defensins comprise an important family of antimicrobial peptides that protect organisms from a diverse spectrum of bacteria, viruses, fungi, and protozoan parasites. Previous studies have shown a marked variation in the number of β-defensins among species, but the underlying reason is unclear. To address this question, we performed comprehensive computational searches to study the intact β-defensin genes from 29 vertebrates. Phylogenetic analysis of the β-defensin genes in vertebrates identified frequent changes in the number of β-defensin genes and multiple species-specific gene gains and losses that have been occurring throughout the evolution of vertebrates. The number of intact β-defensin genes varied from 1 in the western clawed frog to 20 in cattle, with numerous expansions and contractions of the gene family throughout vertebrates, especially among tetrapods. The β-defensin gene number in a species is relevant to the ever-changing microbial challenges from the environment that they inhabit. Selection pressure analysis shows there exist three amino acid sites under significant positive selection. Protein structural characteristics analysis suggests that structural diversity determines the diverse functions of β-defensins. Our study provides a new perspective on the relationships among vertebrate β-defensin gene repertoires and different survival circumstances, which helps explain how β-defensins have evolved.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jianbo Tu
- Animal Genetic Resources Exploration and Innovation Key Laboratory of Sichuan Province, Sichuan Agricultural University, Chengdu, P.R. China
| | - Diyan Li
- Animal Genetic Resources Exploration and Innovation Key Laboratory of Sichuan Province, Sichuan Agricultural University, Chengdu, P.R. China
| | - Qingqing Li
- School of Life Sciences, Key Laboratory of Biomass Energy and Environmental Biotechnology, Yunnan Province, Yunnan Normal University, Kunming, P.R. China
- Kunming Xianghao Technology Co, Ltd, Kunming, Yunnan, P.R. China
| | - Long Zhang
- Animal Genetic Resources Exploration and Innovation Key Laboratory of Sichuan Province, Sichuan Agricultural University, Chengdu, P.R. China
| | - Qing Zhu
- Animal Genetic Resources Exploration and Innovation Key Laboratory of Sichuan Province, Sichuan Agricultural University, Chengdu, P.R. China
| | - Uma Gaur
- Animal Genetic Resources Exploration and Innovation Key Laboratory of Sichuan Province, Sichuan Agricultural University, Chengdu, P.R. China
| | - Xiaolan Fan
- Animal Genetic Resources Exploration and Innovation Key Laboratory of Sichuan Province, Sichuan Agricultural University, Chengdu, P.R. China
| | - Huailiang Xu
- Animal Genetic Resources Exploration and Innovation Key Laboratory of Sichuan Province, Sichuan Agricultural University, Chengdu, P.R. China
| | - Yongfang Yao
- Animal Genetic Resources Exploration and Innovation Key Laboratory of Sichuan Province, Sichuan Agricultural University, Chengdu, P.R. China
| | - Xiaoling Zhao
- Animal Genetic Resources Exploration and Innovation Key Laboratory of Sichuan Province, Sichuan Agricultural University, Chengdu, P.R. China
| | - Mingyao Yang
- Animal Genetic Resources Exploration and Innovation Key Laboratory of Sichuan Province, Sichuan Agricultural University, Chengdu, P.R. China
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Misiewicz J, Afonin S, Grage SL, van den Berg J, Strandberg E, Wadhwani P, Ulrich AS. Action of the multifunctional peptide BP100 on native biomembranes examined by solid-state NMR. JOURNAL OF BIOMOLECULAR NMR 2015; 61:287-98. [PMID: 25616492 DOI: 10.1007/s10858-015-9897-8] [Citation(s) in RCA: 22] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/03/2014] [Accepted: 01/10/2015] [Indexed: 05/22/2023]
Abstract
Membrane composition is a key factor that regulates the destructive activity of antimicrobial peptides and the non-leaky permeation of cell penetrating peptides in vivo. Hence, the choice of model membrane is a crucial aspect in NMR studies and should reflect the biological situation as closely as possible. Here, we explore the structure and dynamics of the short multifunctional peptide BP100 using a multinuclear solid-state NMR approach. The membrane alignment and mobility of this 11 amino acid peptide was studied in various synthetic lipid bilayers with different net charge, fluidity, and thickness, as well as in native biomembranes harvested from prokaryotic and eukaryotic cells. (19)F-NMR provided the high sensitivity and lack of natural abundance background that are necessary to observe a labelled peptide even in protoplast membranes from Micrococcus luteus and in erythrocyte ghosts. Six selectively (19)F-labeled BP100 analogues gave remarkably similar spectra in all of the macroscopically oriented membrane systems, which were studied under quasi-native conditions of ambient temperature and full hydration. This similarity suggests that BP100 has the same surface-bound helical structure and high mobility in the different biomembranes and model membranes alike, independent of charge, thickness or cholesterol content of the system. (31)P-NMR spectra of the phospholipid components did not indicate any bilayer perturbation, so the formation of toroidal wormholes or micellarization can be excluded as a mechanism of its antimicrobial or cell penetrating action. However, (2)H-NMR analysis of the acyl chain order parameter profiles showed that BP100 leads to considerable membrane thinning and thereby local destabilization.
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Affiliation(s)
- Julia Misiewicz
- Institute of Organic Chemistry, Karlsruhe Institute of Technology (KIT), Fritz-Haber-Weg 6, 76131, Karlsruhe, Germany
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Xu X, Lai R. The chemistry and biological activities of peptides from amphibian skin secretions. Chem Rev 2015; 115:1760-846. [PMID: 25594509 DOI: 10.1021/cr4006704] [Citation(s) in RCA: 229] [Impact Index Per Article: 25.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/27/2022]
Affiliation(s)
- Xueqing Xu
- Key Laboratory of Animal Models and Human Disease Mechanisms of Chinese Academy of Sciences & Yunnan Province, Kunming Institute of Zoology , Kunming 650223, Yunnan, China
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Bergaoui I, Zaïri A, Gharsallah H, Aouni M, Hammami A, Hani K, Selmi B. The in vitro evaluation of anti-chlamydial and cytotoxic properties of dermaseptin S4 and derivatives: peptides from amphibian skin. Med Chem Res 2013. [DOI: 10.1007/s00044-013-0601-9] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/28/2022]
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Abed M, Zoubi KAL, Theurer M, Lang F. Effect of dermaseptin on erythrocytes. Basic Clin Pharmacol Toxicol 2013; 113:347-52. [PMID: 23841716 DOI: 10.1111/bcpt.12096] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/13/2013] [Accepted: 05/29/2013] [Indexed: 01/19/2023]
Abstract
Dermaseptin, an antimicrobial peptide participating in the host defence against pathogens, interacts with the membrane of target cells, leading to membrane permeabilization and eventual cell lysis. Dermaseptin has previously been shown to trigger haemolysis. Prior to haemolysis, erythrocytes may enter suicidal death or eryptosis, which is characterized by cell shrinkage and by cell membrane scrambling leading to phosphatidylserine exposure at the erythrocyte surface. Triggers of eryptosis include increase in cytosolic Ca²⁺ activity [(Ca²⁺)](i) and formation of ceramide. This study explored whether dermaseptin modifies [Ca²⁺](i) and elicits eryptosis. Cell volume has been estimated from forward scatter, phosphatidylserine exposure from annexin-V binding, haemolysis from haemoglobin release, ceramide formation from binding of fluorescent antibodies and [Ca²⁺](i) from Fluo3-fluorescence. A 48-hr exposure to dermaseptin (50 μM) was followed by a significant increase in [Ca²⁺](i), a significant increase ceramide abundance, a significant decrease in forward scatter and a significant increase in annexin-V binding. The annexin-V binding after dermaseptin treatment was significantly blunted but not abrogated in the nominal absence of extracellular Ca²⁺. Dermaseptin triggers eryptosis, an effect at least partially due to entry of extracellular Ca²⁺.
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Affiliation(s)
- Majed Abed
- Physiologisches Institut, der Universität Tübingen, Tübingen, Germany
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Antimicrobial peptides: versatile biological properties. INTERNATIONAL JOURNAL OF PEPTIDES 2013; 2013:675391. [PMID: 23935642 PMCID: PMC3710626 DOI: 10.1155/2013/675391] [Citation(s) in RCA: 144] [Impact Index Per Article: 13.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/06/2013] [Revised: 06/04/2013] [Accepted: 06/09/2013] [Indexed: 01/08/2023]
Abstract
Antimicrobial peptides are diverse group of biologically active molecules with multidimensional properties. In recent past, a wide variety of AMPs with diverse structures have been reported from different sources such as plants, animals, mammals, and microorganisms. The presence of unusual amino acids and structural motifs in AMPs confers unique structural properties to the peptide that attribute for their specific mode of action. The ability of these active AMPs to act as multifunctional effector molecules such as signalling molecule, immune modulators, mitogen, antitumor, and contraceptive agent makes it an interesting candidate to study every aspect of their structural and biological properties for prophylactic and therapeutic applications. In addition, easy cloning and recombinant expression of AMPs in heterologous plant host systems provided a pipeline for production of disease resistant transgenic plants. Besides these properties, AMPs were also used as drug delivery vectors to deliver cell impermeable drugs to cell interior. The present review focuses on the diversity and broad spectrum antimicrobial activity of AMPs along with its multidimensional properties that could be exploited for the application of these bioactive peptides as a potential and promising drug candidate in pharmaceutical industries.
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Baptista M, Publicover SJ, Ramalho-Santos J. In vitro effects of cationic compounds on functional human sperm parameters. Fertil Steril 2013; 99:705-12. [DOI: 10.1016/j.fertnstert.2012.11.008] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/27/2012] [Revised: 10/25/2012] [Accepted: 11/02/2012] [Indexed: 12/09/2022]
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Gene expression analysis by ESTs sequencing of the Brazilian frog Phyllomedusa nordestina skin glands. Toxicon 2012; 61:139-50. [PMID: 23159791 DOI: 10.1016/j.toxicon.2012.10.016] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/12/2012] [Revised: 10/21/2012] [Accepted: 10/30/2012] [Indexed: 11/21/2022]
Abstract
The subfamily Phyllomedusinae has attracted a great interest of many researchers mainly due to the high diversity of these frog species and plethora of pharmacological activities frequently observed for their skin secretions. Despite of this fact, mainly for new species, limited information is available regarding the molecular composition of these skin secretions and the cellular components involved in their production. Phyllomedusa nordestina is a recently described Brazilian frog species also popularly known as 'tree-frogs'. Aiming at contributing to the biological knowledge of this species, we show here the gene expression profile of this frog skin secretion using a global ESTs analysis of a cDNA library. The marked aspect of this analysis revealed a significant higher transcriptional level of the opioid peptide dermorphins in P. nordestina skin secretion than in Phyllomedusa hypochondrialis, which is its closest related species, belonging both to the same phylogenetic group. Precursors of bioactive peptides as dermaseptins, phylloseptins, tryptophyllins, and bradykinin-like peptideswere also found in this library. Transcripts encoding proteins related to ordinary cellular functions and pathways were also described. Some of them are chiefly involved in the production of the skin secretion. Taken together, the data reported here constitute a contribution to the characterization of the molecular diversity of gene-encoded polypeptides with potential possibility of pharmacological exploitation. The transcriptional composition of the skin secretion may also help to give the necessary support for the definition of P. nordestina as a new species, which actually relies basically on frog morphological characteristics and geographical distribution.
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Bergaoui I, Zairi A, Tangy F, Aouni M, Selmi B, Hani K. In vitro antiviral activity of dermaseptin S(4) and derivatives from amphibian skin against herpes simplex virus type 2. J Med Virol 2012; 85:272-81. [PMID: 23161023 DOI: 10.1002/jmv.23450] [Citation(s) in RCA: 33] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 09/28/2012] [Indexed: 01/09/2023]
Abstract
Herpes simplex virus (HSV) infections have become a public health problem worldwide. The emergence of acyclovir-resistant viral strains and the failure of vaccination to prevent herpetic infections have prompted the search for new antiviral drugs. Accordingly, the present study was undertaken to synthesize chemically and evaluate Dermaseptin S(4) (S(4)), an anti-microbial peptide derived from amphibian skin, and its derivatives in terms of anti-herpetic activity. The effects of biochemical modifications on their antimicrobial potential were also investigated. The peptides were incubated together with HSV-2 on target cells under various conditions, and the antiviral effects were examined via a cell metabolic labeling method. The findings revealed that DS(4) derivatives elicited concentration-dependent antiviral activity at micromole concentrations. The biochemical modifications of S(4) allowed for the reduction of peptide cytotoxicity without altering antiviral activity. Dermaseptins were added at different times during the viral cycle to investigate the mode of antiviral action. At the highest non-cytotoxic concentrations, most of the tested derivatives were noted to exhibit high antiviral activity particularly when pre-incubated with free herpes viruses prior to infection. Among these peptides, K(4)K(20)S(4) exhibited the highest antiviral activity against HSV-2 sensitive and resistant strains. Interestingly, the antiviral activity of K(4)K(20)S(4) was effective on both acyclovir-resistant and -sensitive viruses. The findings indicate that K(4)K(20)S(4) can be considered a promising candidate for future application as a therapeutic virucidal agent for the treatment of herpes viruses.
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Korting H, Schöllmann C, Stauss-Grabo M, Schäfer-Korting M. Antimicrobial Peptides and Skin: A Paradigm of Translational Medicine. Skin Pharmacol Physiol 2012; 25:323-34. [DOI: 10.1159/000341990] [Citation(s) in RCA: 24] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/02/2011] [Accepted: 07/19/2012] [Indexed: 12/11/2022]
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Memarpoor-Yazdi M, Zare-Zardini H, Asoodeh A. A Novel Antimicrobial Peptide Derived from the Insect Paederus dermatitis. Int J Pept Res Ther 2012. [DOI: 10.1007/s10989-012-9320-1] [Citation(s) in RCA: 12] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/27/2022]
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40
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Efficacy verification and microscopic observations of an anticancer peptide, CB1a, on single lung cancer cell. BIOCHIMICA ET BIOPHYSICA ACTA-BIOMEMBRANES 2012; 1818:2927-35. [PMID: 22846508 DOI: 10.1016/j.bbamem.2012.07.019] [Citation(s) in RCA: 16] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/22/2012] [Revised: 07/20/2012] [Accepted: 07/23/2012] [Indexed: 02/05/2023]
Abstract
In this work, we introduce a new customized anti-lung cancer peptide, CB1a, with IC₅₀ of about 25.0 ± 1.6 μM on NCI-H460 lung cancer cells. Using a multi-cellular tumor spheroid (MCTS) model, results show that CB1a is potent in preventing the growth of lung cancer tumor-like growths in vitro. Additionally, atomic force microscopy (AFM) was used to examine cell surface damage of a single cancer. The mechanism for cell death under CB1a toxicity was verified as being largely due to cell surface damage. Moreover, with a treatment dosage of CB1a at 25 μM, Young's module (E) shows that the elasticity and stiffness of cancer cell decreased with time such that the interaction time for a 50% reduction of E (IT₅₀) was about 7.0min. This new single-cell toxicity investigation using IT₅₀ under AFM assay can be used to separately verify drug efficacy in support of the traditional IC₅₀ measurement in bulk solution. These results could be of special interest to researchers engaged in new drug development.
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41
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Eade CR, Wood MP, Cole AM. Mechanisms and modifications of naturally occurring host defense peptides for anti-HIV microbicide development. Curr HIV Res 2012; 10:61-72. [PMID: 22264047 DOI: 10.2174/157016212799304580] [Citation(s) in RCA: 19] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/15/2011] [Revised: 09/30/2011] [Accepted: 10/27/2011] [Indexed: 11/22/2022]
Abstract
Despite advances in the treatment of HIV infection, heterosexual transmission of HIV remains high, and vaccines to prevent HIV acquisition have been unfruitful. Vaginal microbicides, on the other hand, have demonstrated considerable potential for HIV prevention, and a variety of compounds have been screened for their activity and safety as anti-HIV microbicides. Among these are the naturally occurring host defense peptides, small peptides from diverse lineages with intrinsic antiviral activity. Naturally occurring host defense peptides with anti-HIV activity are promising candidates for vaginal microbicide development. Their structural variance and accompanying mechanistic diversity provide a wide range of inhibitors whose antiviral activity can be exerted at nearly every stage of the HIV lifecycle. Additionally, peptide modification has been explored as a method for improving the anti-HIV activity of host defense peptides. Structure- and sequence-based alterations have achieved varying success in improving the potency and specificity of anti-HIV peptides. Overall, peptides have been discovered or engineered to inhibit HIV with therapeutic indices of > 1000, encouraging their advancement toward clinical trials. Here we review the naturally occurring anti-HIV host defense peptides, demonstrating their breadth of mechanistic diversity, and exploring approaches to enhance and optimize their activity in order to expedite their development as safe and effective anti-HIV vaginal microbicides.
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Affiliation(s)
- Colleen R Eade
- Department of Molecular Biology and Microbiology, Burnett School of Biomedical Sciences, University of Central Florida College of Medicine, Orlando, FL 32816, USA.
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Bechinger B, Salnikov ES. The membrane interactions of antimicrobial peptides revealed by solid-state NMR spectroscopy. Chem Phys Lipids 2012; 165:282-301. [DOI: 10.1016/j.chemphyslip.2012.01.009] [Citation(s) in RCA: 98] [Impact Index Per Article: 8.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/24/2011] [Revised: 01/25/2012] [Accepted: 01/27/2012] [Indexed: 01/29/2023]
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de Moraes J, Nascimento C, Miura LMCV, Leite JRSA, Nakano E, Kawano T. Evaluation of the in vitro activity of dermaseptin 01, a cationic antimicrobial peptide, against Schistosoma mansoni. Chem Biodivers 2012; 8:548-58. [PMID: 21404438 DOI: 10.1002/cbdv.201000163] [Citation(s) in RCA: 27] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/12/2023]
Abstract
Schistosomiasis is a neglected tropical disease that remains a considerable public health problem worldwide. Since the mainstay of schistosomiasis control is chemotherapy with a single drug, praziquantel, drug resistance is a concern. Here, we examined the in vitro effects of dermaseptin 01 (DS 01), an antimicrobial peptide found in the skin secretion of frogs of the genus Phyllomedusa, on Schistosoma mansoni adult worms. DS 01 at a concentration of 100 μg/ml reduced the worm motor activity and caused the death of all worms within 48 h in RPMI 1640 medium. At the highest sublethal concentration of antimicrobial peptide (75 μg/ml), a 100% reduction in egg output of paired female worms was observed. Additionally, DS 01 induced morphological alterations on the tegument of S. mansoni, and a quantitative analysis carried out by confocal microscopy revealed extensive destruction of the tubercles in a dose-dependent manner over the concentration range of 50-200 μg/ml. It was the first time that an anthelmintic activity towards schistosomes has been reported for a dermaseptin.
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Affiliation(s)
- Josué de Moraes
- Laboratório de Parasitologia, Instituto Butantan, Avenida Vital Brasil 1500, 05503-900, São Paulo, SP, Brazil.
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Eckert R. Road to clinical efficacy: challenges and novel strategies for antimicrobial peptide development. Future Microbiol 2011; 6:635-51. [PMID: 21707311 DOI: 10.2217/fmb.11.27] [Citation(s) in RCA: 146] [Impact Index Per Article: 11.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/12/2022] Open
Abstract
Since the discovery of magainins, cecropins and defensins 30 years ago, antimicrobial peptides (AMPs) have been hailed as a potential solution to the dearth of novel antibiotic development. AMPs have shown robust activity against a wide variety of pathogens, including drug-resistant bacteria. Unlike small-molecule antibiotics, however, AMPs have failed to translate this success to the clinic. Only the polymyxins, gramicidins, nisin and daptomycin are currently approved for medical use; the latter is the only example to have been developed in the last several decades. Nonetheless, researchers continue to isolate, modify and develop novel AMPs for therapeutic applications. Efforts have focused on increasing stability, reducing cytotoxicity, improving antimicrobial activity and incorporating AMPs in novel formulations, including nanoscale particles. As peptide synthesis and recombinant production methodologies improve, and more relevant bioassays become available, it becomes increasingly likely that AMPs will break the regulatory barrier and enter the marketplace as valuable antimicrobial weapons in the next 10 years.
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Affiliation(s)
- Randal Eckert
- C3 Jian, Inc., 423 Hindry Ave, Unit D, Inglewood, CA 90301, USA.
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Identification and characterization of two novel antimicrobial peptides, temporin-Ra and temporin-Rb, from skin secretions of the marsh frog (Rana ridibunda). J Pept Sci 2011; 18:10-6. [DOI: 10.1002/psc.1409] [Citation(s) in RCA: 39] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/24/2011] [Revised: 06/15/2011] [Accepted: 06/27/2011] [Indexed: 12/26/2022]
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Harris F, Dennison SR, Singh J, Phoenix DA. On the selectivity and efficacy of defense peptides with respect to cancer cells. Med Res Rev 2011; 33:190-234. [PMID: 21922503 DOI: 10.1002/med.20252] [Citation(s) in RCA: 122] [Impact Index Per Article: 9.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/28/2022]
Abstract
Here, we review potential determinants of the anticancer efficacy of innate immune peptides (ACPs) for cancer cells. These determinants include membrane-based factors, such as receptors, phosphatidylserine, sialic acid residues, and sulfated glycans, and peptide-based factors, such as residue composition, sequence length, net charge, hydrophobic arc size, hydrophobicity, and amphiphilicity. Each of these factors may contribute to the anticancer action of ACPs, but no single factor(s) makes an overriding contribution to their overall selectivity and toxicity. Differences between the anticancer actions of ACPs seem to relate to different levels of interplay between these peptide and membrane-based factors.
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Affiliation(s)
- Frederick Harris
- School of Forensic and Investigative Sciences, University of Central Lancashire, Preston, Lancashire, United Kingdom
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Nguyen LT, de Boer L, Zaat SAJ, Vogel HJ. Investigating the cationic side chains of the antimicrobial peptide tritrpticin: hydrogen bonding properties govern its membrane-disruptive activities. BIOCHIMICA ET BIOPHYSICA ACTA-BIOMEMBRANES 2011; 1808:2297-303. [PMID: 21641334 DOI: 10.1016/j.bbamem.2011.05.015] [Citation(s) in RCA: 51] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/20/2011] [Revised: 05/15/2011] [Accepted: 05/16/2011] [Indexed: 11/27/2022]
Abstract
The positively charged side chains of cationic antimicrobial peptides are generally thought to provide the initial long-range electrostatic attractive forces that guide them towards the negatively charged bacterial membranes. Peptide analogs were designed to examine the role of the four Arg side chains in the cathelicidin peptide tritrpticin (VRRFPWWWPFLRR). The analogs include several noncoded Arg and Lys derivatives that offer small variations in side chain length and methylation state. The peptides were tested for bactericidal and hemolytic activities, and their membrane insertion and permeabilization properties were characterized by leakage assays and fluorescence spectroscopy. A net charge of +5 for most of the analogs maintains their high antimicrobial activity and directs them towards preferential insertion into model bacterial membrane systems with a similar extent of burial of the Trp side chains. However the peptides exhibit significant functional differences. Analogs with methylated cationic side chains cause lower levels of membrane leakage and are associated with lower hemolytic activities, making them potentially attractive pharmaceutical candidates. Analogs containing the Arg guanidinium groups cause more membrane disruption than those containing the Lys amino groups. Peptides in the latter group with shorter side chains have increased membrane activity and conversely, elongating the Arg residue causes slightly higher membrane activity. Altogether, the potential for strong hydrogen bonding between the four positive Arg side chains with the phospholipid head groups seems to be a determinant for the membrane disruptive properties of tritrpticin and many related cationic antimicrobial peptides.
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Affiliation(s)
- Leonard T Nguyen
- Biochemistry Research Group, Department of Biological Sciences, University of Calgary, Calgary, Alberta, Canada
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Zhao J, Sun Y, Li Z, Su Q. Molecular cloning of novel antimicrobial peptide genes from the skin of the Chinese brown frog, Rana chensinensis. Zoolog Sci 2011; 28:112-7. [PMID: 21303203 DOI: 10.2108/zsj.28.112] [Citation(s) in RCA: 15] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/17/2022]
Abstract
One species of the Chinese brown frog, Rana chensinensis, is widely distributed in north-central China. In this study, a cDNA library was constructed to clone the antimicrobial peptides' genes from the skin of R. chensinensis. Twenty-three prepropeptide cDNA sequences encoding twelve novel mature antimicrobial peptides were isolated and characterized. Six peptides belonged to three known families previously identified from other Ranid frogs: temporin (4 peptides), brevinin-2 (1 peptide), and palustrin-2 (1 peptide). The other six peptides showed little similarity to known antimicrobial peptides. According to the amino acid sequences, with or without α-helix structure, and either hydrophilic or hydrophobic, these were organized into four new families: chensinin-1 (3 peptides), chensinin-2 (1 peptide), chensinin-3 (1 peptide), and chensinin-4 (1 peptide). Five peptides from different families were chemically synthesized, and their antimicrobial, cytolytic, and hemolytic activities were evaluated. Of these, brevinin-2CE showed strongest antimicrobial activities against both the Gram-positive and Gram-negative bacteria with a slight hemolysis. Temporin-1CEe and palustrin-2CE also displayed a slight hemolysis, but they had different activities to prokaryotic cells. Temporin-1CEe showed higher antimicrobial activity against Gram-positive bacteria than Gram-negative bacteria, whereas it was contrary to palustrin-2CE. Chensinin-1 CEb and chensinin-3CE only had moderate antimicrobial activity against microorganisms. In addition, the brevinin-2 peptides from different brown frogs were analyzed to reveal the taxonomy and phylogenetic relationships of R. chensinensis.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jie Zhao
- College of Life Sciences, Shaanxi Normal University, Xi'an 710062, Shaanxi, P. R. China
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Abstract
AbstractIncreased prevalence of multi-drug resistance in pathogens has encouraged researchers to focus on finding novel forms of anti-infective agents. Antimicrobial peptides (AMPs) found in animal secretions are components of host innate immune response and have survived eons of pathogen evolution. Thus, they are likely to be active against pathogens and even those that are resistant to conventional drugs. Many peptides have been isolated and shown to be effective against multi-drug resistant pathogens. More than 500 AMPs have been identified from amphibians. The abundance of AMPs in frog skin is remarkable and constitutes a rich source for design of novel pharmaceutical molecules. Expression and post-translational modifications, discovery, activities and probable therapeutic application prospects of amphibian AMPs will be discussed in this article.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yao Xiao
- 1Kunming Institute of Zoology, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Kunming 650223, Yunnan, China
| | - Cunbao Liu
- 1Kunming Institute of Zoology, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Kunming 650223, Yunnan, China
| | - Ren Lai
- 1Kunming Institute of Zoology, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Kunming 650223, Yunnan, China
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50
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Bechinger B. Insights into the mechanisms of action of host defence peptides from biophysical and structural investigations. J Pept Sci 2011; 17:306-14. [DOI: 10.1002/psc.1343] [Citation(s) in RCA: 72] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/01/2010] [Revised: 11/12/2010] [Accepted: 11/15/2010] [Indexed: 01/09/2023]
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