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Hoock JGF, Rossetti C, Bilgin M, Depta L, Enemark-Rasmussen K, Christianson JC, Laraia L. Identification of non-conventional small molecule degraders and stabilizers of squalene synthase. Chem Sci 2023; 14:12973-12983. [PMID: 38023519 PMCID: PMC10664564 DOI: 10.1039/d3sc04064j] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/04/2023] [Accepted: 10/15/2023] [Indexed: 12/01/2023] Open
Abstract
Squalene synthase (SQS) is an essential enzyme in the mevalonate pathway, which controls cholesterol biosynthesis and homeostasis. Although catalytic inhibitors of SQS have been developed, none have been approved for therapeutic use so far. Herein we sought to develop SQS degraders using targeted protein degradation (TPD) to lower overall cellular cholesterol content. We found that KY02111, a small molecule ligand of SQS, selectively causes SQS to degrade in a proteasome-dependent manner. Unexpectedly, compounds based on the same scaffold linked to E3 ligase recruiting ligands led to SQS stabilization. Proteomic analysis found KY02111 to reduce only the levels of SQS, while lipidomic analysis determined that KY02111-induced degradation lowered cellular cholesteryl ester content. Stabilizers shielded SQS from its natural turnover without recruiting their matching E3 ligase or affecting enzymatic target activity. Our work shows that degradation of SQS is possible despite a challenging biological setting and provides the first chemical tools to degrade and stabilize SQS.
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Affiliation(s)
- Joseph G F Hoock
- Department of Chemistry, Technical University of Denmark Kemitorvet 207 Kongens Lyngby 2800 Denmark
| | - Cecilia Rossetti
- Department of Chemistry, Technical University of Denmark Kemitorvet 207 Kongens Lyngby 2800 Denmark
| | - Mesut Bilgin
- Lipidomics Core Facility, Danish Cancer Institute Strandboulevarden 49 Copenhagen 2100 Denmark
| | - Laura Depta
- Department of Chemistry, Technical University of Denmark Kemitorvet 207 Kongens Lyngby 2800 Denmark
| | - Kasper Enemark-Rasmussen
- Department of Chemistry, Technical University of Denmark Kemitorvet 207 Kongens Lyngby 2800 Denmark
| | - John C Christianson
- Nuffield Department of Rheumatology, Orthopaedics, and Musculoskeletal Sciences, Botnar Research Centre, University of Oxford Headington Oxford OX3 7LD UK
| | - Luca Laraia
- Department of Chemistry, Technical University of Denmark Kemitorvet 207 Kongens Lyngby 2800 Denmark
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2
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Picón DF, Skouta R. Unveiling the Therapeutic Potential of Squalene Synthase: Deciphering Its Biochemical Mechanism, Disease Implications, and Intriguing Ties to Ferroptosis. Cancers (Basel) 2023; 15:3731. [PMID: 37509391 PMCID: PMC10378455 DOI: 10.3390/cancers15143731] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/04/2023] [Revised: 07/12/2023] [Accepted: 07/20/2023] [Indexed: 07/30/2023] Open
Abstract
Squalene synthase (SQS) has emerged as a promising therapeutic target for various diseases, including cancers, owing to its pivotal role in the mevalonate pathway and the antioxidant properties of squalene. Primarily, SQS orchestrates the head-to-head condensation reaction, catalyzing the fusion of two farnesyl pyrophosphate molecules, leading to the formation of squalene, which has been depicted as a highly effective oxygen-scavenging agent in in vitro studies. Recent studies have depicted this isoprenoid as a protective layer against ferroptosis due to its potential regulation of lipid peroxidation, as well as its protection against oxidative damage. Therefore, beyond its fundamental function, recent investigations have unveiled additional roles for SQS as a regulator of lipid peroxidation and programmed cell death pathways, such as ferroptosis-a type of cell death characterized by elevated levels of lipid peroxide, one of the forms of reactive oxygen species (ROS), and intracellular iron concentration. Notably, thorough explorations have shed light on the distinctive features that set SQS apart from other members within the isoprenoid synthase superfamily. Its unique biochemical structure, intricately intertwined with its reaction mechanism, has garnered significant attention. Moreover, considerable evidence substantiates the significance of SQS in various disease contexts, and its intriguing association with ferroptosis and lipid peroxidation. The objective of this report is to analyze the existing literature comprehensively, corroborating these findings, and provide an up-to-date perspective on the current understanding of SQS as a prospective therapeutic target, as well as its intricate relationship with ferroptosis. This review aims to consolidate the knowledge surrounding SQS, thereby contributing to the broader comprehension of its potential implications in disease management and therapeutic interventions.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Rachid Skouta
- Department of Biology, University of Massachusetts, Amherst, MA 01003, USA
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3
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Matralis AN, Kaklamanis L, Perrea D, Kourounakis AP. Effect of a new squalene synthase inhibitor on an ApoE -/- mouse model of atherosclerosis. Bioorg Med Chem 2023; 90:117378. [PMID: 37336084 DOI: 10.1016/j.bmc.2023.117378] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/04/2023] [Revised: 06/01/2023] [Accepted: 06/09/2023] [Indexed: 06/21/2023]
Abstract
Ηypercholesterolemia/hyperlipidemia in conjunction with oxidative stress and inflammatory processes contribute synergistically to the pathogenesis of atherosclerosis. We hereby evaluated the antiatherosclerotic effect of the multi-target derivative 4-methyl-2-(10H-phenothiazin-3-yl)morpholin-2-ol hydrobromide 1 in apoE-/- mice; compound 1 is a potent antihyperlipidemic agent acting through Squalene Synthase inhibition, while it has exhibited an outstanding antioxidant and anti-inflammatory activity in various experimental animal models. The new analogue was evaluated in terms of its antiatherosclerotic/antioxidant effect in the ApoE-/- transgenic mouse model. Its toxicity profile was also assessed by measuring the levels of four sensitive indicators of liver toxicity. Prolonged administration of 1 in ApoE-/- mice fed with a western-type (wt) diet efficiently reduced the aortic atheromatic lesions, an effect that took place through a cholesterol lowering independent manner. In addition, 1 displayed a significant reduction not only of glucose but also of oxidative stress levels, while it did not cause any toxicity. To the best of our knowledge this is the first time that the antiatherosclerotic effect of a Squalene Synthase inhibitor is studied in this specific atherosclerosis mouse model. As a result, compound 1 may serve as a promising starting point towards developing new bioactive analogues against the onset and subsequent development of atherosclerosis.
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Affiliation(s)
- Alexios N Matralis
- Department of Medicinal Chemistry, Faculty of Pharmacy, National and Kapodistrian University of Athens, 15771 Athens, Greece; Bio-innovation Institute, Biomedical Sciences Research Center "Alexander Fleming", Vari, Athens, Greece.
| | - Loukas Kaklamanis
- Onassis Cardiac Surgery Center, Department of Pathology, Athens, Greece
| | - Despina Perrea
- Laboratory of Experimental Surgery and Surgical Research "N.S. Christeas", National and Kapodistrian University of Athens, Medical School, Athens, Greece
| | - Angeliki P Kourounakis
- Department of Medicinal Chemistry, Faculty of Pharmacy, National and Kapodistrian University of Athens, 15771 Athens, Greece.
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Rimondi E, Valencic E, Tommasini A, Secchiero P, Melloni E, Marcuzzi A. Mevalonate Kinase Deficiency and Squalene Synthase Inhibitor (TAK-475): The Balance to Extinguish the Inflammation. Biomolecules 2021; 11:biom11101438. [PMID: 34680069 PMCID: PMC8533390 DOI: 10.3390/biom11101438] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/29/2021] [Revised: 09/20/2021] [Accepted: 09/27/2021] [Indexed: 12/04/2022] Open
Abstract
Mevalonate Kinase Deficiency (MKD) is a rare inborn disease belonging to the family of periodic fever syndromes. The MKD phenotype is characterized by systemic inflammation involving multiple organs, including the nervous system. Current anti-inflammatory approaches to MKD are only partially effective and do not act specifically on neural inflammation. According to the new emerging pharmacology trends, the repositioning of drugs from the indication for which they were originally intended to another one can make mechanistic-based medications easily available to treat rare diseases. According to this perspective, the squalene synthase inhibitor Lapaquistat (TAK-475), originally developed as a cholesterol-lowering drug, might find a new indication in MKD, by modulating the mevalonate cholesterol pathway, increasing the availability of anti-inflammatory isoprenoid intermediates. Using an in vitro model for MKD, we mimicked the blockade of the cholesterol pathway and evaluated the potential anti-inflammatory effect of Lapaquistat. The results obtained showed anti-inflammatory effects of Lapaquistat in association with a low blockade of the metabolic pathway, while this effect did not remain with a tighter blockade. On these bases, Lapaquistat could be configured as an effective treatment for MKD’s mild forms, in which the residual enzymatic activity is only reduced and not almost completely absent as in the severe forms.
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Affiliation(s)
- Erika Rimondi
- Department of Translational Medicine, University of Ferrara, 44121 Ferrara, Italy; (E.R.); (P.S.); (E.M.); (A.M.)
- LTTA Centre, University of Ferrara, 44121 Ferrara, Italy
| | - Erica Valencic
- Department of Paediatrics, Institute for Maternal and Child Health—IRCCS “Burlo Garofolo”, 34137 Trieste, Italy;
| | - Alberto Tommasini
- Department of Paediatrics, Institute for Maternal and Child Health—IRCCS “Burlo Garofolo”, 34137 Trieste, Italy;
- Department of Medical Sciences, University of Trieste, 34127 Trieste, Italy
- Correspondence:
| | - Paola Secchiero
- Department of Translational Medicine, University of Ferrara, 44121 Ferrara, Italy; (E.R.); (P.S.); (E.M.); (A.M.)
- LTTA Centre, University of Ferrara, 44121 Ferrara, Italy
| | - Elisabetta Melloni
- Department of Translational Medicine, University of Ferrara, 44121 Ferrara, Italy; (E.R.); (P.S.); (E.M.); (A.M.)
- LTTA Centre, University of Ferrara, 44121 Ferrara, Italy
| | - Annalisa Marcuzzi
- Department of Translational Medicine, University of Ferrara, 44121 Ferrara, Italy; (E.R.); (P.S.); (E.M.); (A.M.)
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5
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Yu D, Liao JK. Emerging views of statin pleiotropy and cholesterol lowering. Cardiovasc Res 2021; 118:413-423. [PMID: 33533892 PMCID: PMC8803071 DOI: 10.1093/cvr/cvab032] [Citation(s) in RCA: 47] [Impact Index Per Article: 15.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/08/2020] [Revised: 11/23/2020] [Accepted: 02/01/2021] [Indexed: 12/11/2022] Open
Abstract
Over the past four decades, no class of drugs has had more impact on cardiovascular health than the HMC-CoA reductase inhibitors or statins. Developed as potent lipid-lowering agents, statins were later shown to reduce morbidity and mortality of patients who are at risk for cardiovascular disease. However, retrospective analyses of some of these clinical trials have uncovered some aspects of their clinical benefits that may be additional to their lipid-lowering effects. Such "pleiotropic" effects of statins garnered intense interest and debate over its contribution to cardiovascular risk reduction. This review will provide a brief background of statin pleiotropy, assess the available clinical evidence for and against their non-lipid-lowering benefits, and propose future research directions in this field.
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Affiliation(s)
- Dongbo Yu
- Section of Cardiology, Department of Medicine, University of Chicago, Chicago, IL, USA.,Department of Cardiovascular Care, ThedaCare Regional Medical Center, Appleton, WI, USA
| | - James K Liao
- Section of Cardiology, Department of Medicine, University of Chicago, Chicago, IL, USA
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6
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Key Enzymes for the Mevalonate Pathway in the Cardiovascular System. J Cardiovasc Pharmacol 2021; 77:142-152. [PMID: 33538531 DOI: 10.1097/fjc.0000000000000952] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/24/2020] [Accepted: 10/15/2020] [Indexed: 11/25/2022]
Abstract
ABSTRACT Isoprenylation is an important post-transcriptional modification of small GTPases required for their activation and function. Isoprenoids, including farnesyl pyrophosphate (FPP) and geranylgeranyl pyrophosphate, are indispensable for isoprenylation by serving as donors of a prenyl moiety to small G proteins. In the human body, isoprenoids are mainly generated by the mevalonate pathway (also known as the cholesterol-synthesis pathway). The hydroxymethylglutaryl coenzyme A reductase catalyzes the first rate-limiting steps of the mevalonate pathway, and its inhibitor (statins) are widely used as lipid-lowering agents. In addition, the FPP synthase is also of critical importance for the regulation of the isoprenoids production, for which the inhibitor is mainly used in the treatment of osteoporosis. Synthetic FPP can be further used to generate geranylgeranyl pyrophosphate and cholesterol. Recent studies suggest a role for isoprenoids in the genesis and development of cardiovascular disorders, such as pathological cardiac hypertrophy, fibrosis, endothelial dysfunction, and fibrotic responses of smooth-muscle cells. Furthermore, statins and FPP synthase inhibitors have also been applied for the management of heart failure and other cardiovascular diseases rather than their clinical use for hyperlipidemia or bone diseases. In this review, we focus on the function of several critical enzymes, including hydroxymethylglutaryl coenzyme A reductase, FPP synthase, farnesyltransferase, and geranylgeranyltransferase in the mevalonate pathway which are involved in regulating the generation of isoprenoids and isoprenylation of small GTPases, and their pathophysiological role in the cardiovascular system. Moreover, we summarize recent research into applications of statins and the FPP synthase inhibitors to treat cardiovascular diseases, rather than for their traditional indications respectively.
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7
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Ha NT, Lee CH. Roles of Farnesyl-Diphosphate Farnesyltransferase 1 in Tumour and Tumour Microenvironments. Cells 2020; 9:cells9112352. [PMID: 33113804 PMCID: PMC7693003 DOI: 10.3390/cells9112352] [Citation(s) in RCA: 17] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/29/2020] [Revised: 10/23/2020] [Accepted: 10/24/2020] [Indexed: 12/14/2022] Open
Abstract
Farnesyl-diphosphate farnesyltransferase 1 (FDFT1, squalene synthase), a membrane-associated enzyme, synthesizes squalene via condensation of two molecules of farnesyl pyrophosphate. Accumulating evidence has noted that FDFT1 plays a critical role in cancer, particularly in metabolic reprogramming, cell proliferation, and invasion. Based on these advances in our knowledge, FDFT1 could be a potential target for cancer treatment. This review focuses on the contribution of FDFT1 to the hallmarks of cancer, and further, we discuss the applicability of FDFT1 as a cancer prognostic marker and target for anticancer therapy.
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Abstract
SIGNIFICANCE Pyridine dinucleotides, nicotinamide adenine dinucleotide (NAD) and nicotinamide adenine dinucleotide phosphate (NADP), were discovered more than 100 years ago as necessary cofactors for fermentation in yeast extracts. Since that time, these molecules have been recognized as fundamental players in a variety of cellular processes, including energy metabolism, redox homeostasis, cellular signaling, and gene transcription, among many others. Given their critical role as mediators of cellular responses to metabolic perturbations, it is unsurprising that dysregulation of NAD and NADP metabolism has been associated with the pathobiology of many chronic human diseases. Recent Advances: A biochemistry renaissance in biomedical research, with its increasing focus on the metabolic pathobiology of human disease, has reignited interest in pyridine dinucleotides, which has led to new insights into the cell biology of NAD(P) metabolism, including its cellular pharmacokinetics, biosynthesis, subcellular localization, and regulation. This review highlights these advances to illustrate the importance of NAD(P) metabolism in the molecular pathogenesis of disease. CRITICAL ISSUES Perturbations of NAD(H) and NADP(H) are a prominent feature of human disease; however, fundamental questions regarding the regulation of the absolute levels of these cofactors and the key determinants of their redox ratios remain. Moreover, an integrated topological model of NAD(P) biology that combines the metabolic and other roles remains elusive. FUTURE DIRECTIONS As the complex regulatory network of NAD(P) metabolism becomes illuminated, sophisticated new approaches to manipulating these pathways in specific organs, cells, or organelles will be developed to target the underlying pathogenic mechanisms of disease, opening doors for the next generation of redox-based, metabolism-targeted therapies. Antioxid. Redox Signal. 28, 180-212.
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Affiliation(s)
- Joshua P Fessel
- 1 Department of Medicine, Vanderbilt University , Nashville, Tennessee
| | - William M Oldham
- 2 Department of Medicine, Brigham and Women's Hospital , Boston, Massachusetts.,3 Department of Medicine, Harvard Medical School , Boston, Massachusetts
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9
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Marcuzzi A, Piscianz E, Vecchi Brumatti L, Tommasini A. Mevalonate kinase deficiency: therapeutic targets, treatments, and outcomes. Expert Opin Orphan Drugs 2017. [DOI: 10.1080/21678707.2017.1328308] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/19/2022]
Affiliation(s)
- Annalisa Marcuzzi
- Department of Medicine, Surgery, and Health Sciences, University of Trieste, Trieste, Italy
| | - Elisa Piscianz
- Department of Medicine, Surgery, and Health Sciences, University of Trieste, Trieste, Italy
| | - Liza Vecchi Brumatti
- Scientific Direction, Institute for Maternal and Child Health – IRCCS ‘Burlo Garofolo,’ Trieste, Italy
| | - Alberto Tommasini
- Department of Pediatrics, Institute for Maternal and Child Health - IRCCS ‘Burlo Garofolo’, Trieste, Italy
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10
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Warchol I, Gora M, Wysocka-Kapcinska M, Komaszylo J, Swiezewska E, Sojka M, Danikiewicz W, Plochocka D, Maciejak A, Tulacz D, Leszczynska A, Kapur S, Burzynska B. Genetic engineering and molecular characterization of yeast strain expressing hybrid human-yeast squalene synthase as a tool for anti-cholesterol drug assessment. J Appl Microbiol 2016; 120:877-88. [PMID: 26757023 DOI: 10.1111/jam.13053] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/24/2015] [Revised: 10/27/2015] [Accepted: 01/05/2016] [Indexed: 11/29/2022]
Abstract
AIMS The main objective of the study is molecular and biological characterization of the human-yeast hybrid squalene synthase (SQS), as a promising target for treatment of hypercholesterolaemia. METHODS AND RESULTS The human-yeast hybrid SQS, with 67% amino acids, including the catalytic site derived from human enzyme, was expressed in Saccharomyces cerevisiae strain deleted of its own SQS gene. The constructed strain has a decreased level of sterols compared to the control strain. The mevalonate pathway and sterol biosynthesis genes are induced and the level of triacylglycerols is increased. Treatment of the strain with rosuvastatin or zaragozic acid, two mevalonate pathway inhibitors, decreased the amounts of squalene, lanosterol and ergosterol, and up-regulated expression of several genes encoding enzymes responsible for biosynthesis of ergosterol precursors. Conversely, expression of the majority genes implicated in the biosynthesis of other mevalonate pathway end products, ubiquinone and dolichol, was down-regulated. CONCLUSIONS The S. cerevisiae strain constructed in this study enables to investigate the physiological and molecular effects of inhibitors on cell functioning. SIGNIFICANCE AND IMPACT OF THE STUDY The yeast strain expressing hybrid SQS with the catalytic core of human enzyme is a convenient tool for efficient screening for novel inhibitors of cholesterol-lowering properties.
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Affiliation(s)
- I Warchol
- Institute of Biochemistry and Biophysics, Polish Academy of Sciences, Warsaw, Poland
| | - M Gora
- Institute of Biochemistry and Biophysics, Polish Academy of Sciences, Warsaw, Poland
| | - M Wysocka-Kapcinska
- Institute of Biochemistry and Biophysics, Polish Academy of Sciences, Warsaw, Poland
| | - J Komaszylo
- Institute of Biochemistry and Biophysics, Polish Academy of Sciences, Warsaw, Poland
| | - E Swiezewska
- Institute of Biochemistry and Biophysics, Polish Academy of Sciences, Warsaw, Poland
| | - M Sojka
- Institute of Organic Chemistry, Polish Academy of Sciences, Warsaw, Poland
| | - W Danikiewicz
- Institute of Organic Chemistry, Polish Academy of Sciences, Warsaw, Poland
| | - D Plochocka
- Institute of Biochemistry and Biophysics, Polish Academy of Sciences, Warsaw, Poland
| | - A Maciejak
- Institute of Biochemistry and Biophysics, Polish Academy of Sciences, Warsaw, Poland
| | - D Tulacz
- Institute of Biochemistry and Biophysics, Polish Academy of Sciences, Warsaw, Poland
| | - A Leszczynska
- Institute of Biochemistry and Biophysics, Polish Academy of Sciences, Warsaw, Poland
| | - S Kapur
- Department of Biological Science, Birla Institute of Technology & Science (BITS), Hyderabad, India
| | - B Burzynska
- Institute of Biochemistry and Biophysics, Polish Academy of Sciences, Warsaw, Poland
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11
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Discovering Peptide Inhibitors of Human Squalene Synthase Through Screening the Phage-Displayed Cyclic Peptide c7c Library. Appl Biochem Biotechnol 2016; 179:597-609. [DOI: 10.1007/s12010-016-2016-9] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/14/2015] [Accepted: 02/05/2016] [Indexed: 10/22/2022]
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12
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Innovative Target Therapies Are Able to Block the Inflammation Associated with Dysfunction of the Cholesterol Biosynthesis Pathway. Int J Mol Sci 2015; 17:ijms17010047. [PMID: 26729102 PMCID: PMC4730292 DOI: 10.3390/ijms17010047] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/17/2015] [Revised: 12/23/2015] [Accepted: 12/24/2015] [Indexed: 01/24/2023] Open
Abstract
The cholesterol pathway is an essential biochemical process aimed at the synthesis of bioactive molecules involved in multiple crucial cellular functions. The end products of this pathway are sterols, such as cholesterol, which are essential components of cell membranes, precursors of steroid hormones, bile acids and other molecules such as ubiquinone. Several diseases are caused by defects in this metabolic pathway: the most severe forms of which cause neurological involvement (psychomotor retardation and cerebellar ataxia) as a result of a variety of cellular impairments, including mitochondrial dysfunction. These pathologies are induced by convergent mechanisms in which the mitochondrial unit plays a pivotal role contributing to defective apoptosis, autophagy and mitophagy processes. Unraveling these mechanisms would contribute to the development of effective drug treatments for these disorders. In addition, the development of biochemical models could have a substantial impact on the understanding of the mechanism of action of drugs that act on this pathway in multifactor disorders. In this review we will focus in particular on inhibitors of cholesterol synthesis, mitochondria-targeted drugs and inhibitors of the inflammasome.
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Shiuan D, Lin HK, Chen YH, Chang DK, Huang KJ, Farh L. Exploration of Peptide Inhibitors of Human Squalene Synthase through Molecular Modeling and Phage Display Technique. Appl Biochem Biotechnol 2015; 178:312-23. [PMID: 26438313 DOI: 10.1007/s12010-015-1873-y] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/15/2015] [Accepted: 09/24/2015] [Indexed: 11/29/2022]
Abstract
Many studies have demonstrated the role of elevated levels of serum cholesterol in the pathogenesis of atherosclerosis and coronary heart disease. Various drugs targeting the key enzymes involved in the cholesterol biosynthesis pathway have been investigated for the treatment of hypercholesterolemia. Human squalene synthase has been one of the most important targets for therapeutic intervention. In the present study, we used the recombinant human squalene synthase as the lure for screening the peptide inhibitors from phage-displayed random peptide library. The tightly bound phages and their derived peptides were further evaluated based on their potential binding capabilities, molecular modeling characteristics and predicted absorption, distribution, metabolism, excretion, toxicity (ADMET) properties. Several hexa-peptides and tetra-peptides were finally synthesized to assay their inhibitory effects toward the recombinant human squalene synthase. The results demonstrated that the hexa-peptide FTACNW and tetra-peptide VACL can inhibit human squalene synthase effectively (with IC50 values near 100 μM) and may have potential to develop further as future hypocholesterolemia agents.
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Affiliation(s)
- David Shiuan
- Department of Life Science and Institute of Biotechnology, National Dong Hwa University, Hualien, Taiwan, 974, Republic of China.
| | - Hwan-Kang Lin
- Department of Life Science and Institute of Biotechnology, National Dong Hwa University, Hualien, Taiwan, 974, Republic of China
| | - Yue-Hao Chen
- Department of Life Science and Institute of Biotechnology, National Dong Hwa University, Hualien, Taiwan, 974, Republic of China
| | - Ding-Kwo Chang
- Institute of Chemistry, Academia Sinica, Taipei, Taiwan, 115, Republic of China
| | - Kao-Jean Huang
- Development Center for Biotechnology, Taipei, Taiwan, 221, Republic of China
| | - Lynn Farh
- Department of Applied Chemistry, National Pingtung University, Pingtung, Taiwan, 900, Republic of China
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14
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Antihyperlipidemic morpholine derivatives with antioxidant activity: An investigation of the aromatic substitution. Bioorg Med Chem 2015; 23:7015-23. [PMID: 26433631 DOI: 10.1016/j.bmc.2015.09.034] [Citation(s) in RCA: 26] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/26/2015] [Revised: 09/17/2015] [Accepted: 09/20/2015] [Indexed: 11/23/2022]
Abstract
Drugs affecting more than one target could result in a more efficient treatment of multifactorial diseases as well as fewer safety concerns, compared to a one-drug one-target approach. Within our continued efforts towards the design of multifunctional molecules against atherosclerosis, we hereby report the synthesis of 17 new morpholine derivatives which structurally vary in terms of the aromatic substitution on the morpholine ring. These derivatives simultaneously suppress cholesterol biosynthesis through SQS inhibition (IC50 values of the most active compounds are between 0.7 and 5.5 μM) while exhibiting a significant protection of hepatic microsomal membranes against lipid peroxidation (with IC50 values for the most active compounds being between 73 and 200 μM). Further evaluation of these compounds was accomplished in vivo in an animal model of acute experimental hyperlipidemia, where it was observed that compounds reduced the examined lipidemic parameters (TC, TG and LDL) by 15-80%. In order to examine the mode of binding of these molecules in the active catalytic site of SQS, we also performed docking simulation studies. Our results indicate that some of the new compounds can be considered interesting structures in the search for new multifunctional agents of potential application in atherosclerosis.
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15
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Arya N, Kharjul MD, Shishoo CJ, Thakare VN, Jain KS. Some molecular targets for antihyperlipidemic drug research. Eur J Med Chem 2014; 85:535-68. [DOI: 10.1016/j.ejmech.2014.08.013] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/26/2014] [Revised: 08/01/2014] [Accepted: 08/05/2014] [Indexed: 12/17/2022]
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16
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Park J, Matralis AN, Berghuis AM, Tsantrizos YS. Human isoprenoid synthase enzymes as therapeutic targets. Front Chem 2014; 2:50. [PMID: 25101260 PMCID: PMC4106277 DOI: 10.3389/fchem.2014.00050] [Citation(s) in RCA: 29] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/07/2014] [Accepted: 06/25/2014] [Indexed: 12/14/2022] Open
Abstract
In the human body, the complex biochemical network known as the mevalonate pathway is responsible for the biosynthesis of all isoprenoids, which consists of a vast array of metabolites that are vital for proper cellular functions. Two key isoprenoids, farnesyl pyrophosphate (FPP) and geranylgeranyl pyrophosphate (GGPP) are responsible for the post-translational prenylation of small GTP-binding proteins, and serve as the biosynthetic precursors to numerous other biomolecules. The down-stream metabolite of FPP and GGPP is squalene, the precursor to steroids, bile acids, lipoproteins, and vitamin D. In the past, interest in prenyl synthase inhibitors focused mainly on the role of the FPP in lytic bone diseases. More recently pre-clinical and clinical studies have strongly implicated high levels of protein prenylation in a plethora of human diseases, including non-skeletal cancers, the progression of neurodegenerative diseases and cardiovascular diseases. In this review, we focus mainly on the potential therapeutic value of down-regulating the biosynthesis of FPP, GGPP, and squalene. We summarize the most recent drug discovery efforts and the structural data available that support the current on-going studies.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jaeok Park
- Department of Biochemistry, McGill University Montreal, QC, Canada
| | | | - Albert M Berghuis
- Department of Biochemistry, McGill University Montreal, QC, Canada ; Department of Microbiology and Immunology, McGill University Montreal, QC, Canada
| | - Youla S Tsantrizos
- Department of Biochemistry, McGill University Montreal, QC, Canada ; Department of Chemistry, McGill University Montreal, QC, Canada
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Deglycosylation of stilbene glucoside compounds improves inhibition of 3-hydroxy-3-methylglutaryl coenzyme a reductase and squalene synthase activities. Food Sci Biotechnol 2014. [DOI: 10.1007/s10068-014-0088-2] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/25/2022] Open
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Potgieter M, Pretorius E, Pepper MS. Primary and secondary coenzyme Q10 deficiency: the role of therapeutic supplementation. Nutr Rev 2013; 71:180-8. [PMID: 23452285 DOI: 10.1111/nure.12011] [Citation(s) in RCA: 78] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/12/2022] Open
Abstract
Coenzyme Q10 (CoQ10) is the only lipid-soluble antioxidant that animal cells synthesize de novo. It is found in cell membranes and is particularly well known for its role in the electron transport chain in mitochondrial membranes during aerobic cellular respiration. A deficiency in either its bioavailability or its biosynthesis can lead to one of several disease states. Primary deficiency has been well described and results from mutations in genes involved in CoQ10 biosynthesis. Secondary deficiency may be linked to hydroxymethylglutaryl coenzyme A (HMG-CoA) reductase inhibitors (statins), which are used for the treatment of hypercholesterolemia. Dietary contributions of CoQ10 are very small, but supplementation is effective in increasing plasma CoQ10 levels. It has been clearly demonstrated that treatment with CoQ10 is effective in numerous disorders and deficiency states and that supplementation has a favorable outcome. However, CoQ10 is not routinely prescribed in clinical practice. This review explores primary as well as statin-induced secondary deficiency and provides an overview of the benefits of CoQ10 supplementation.
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Affiliation(s)
- Marnie Potgieter
- Department of Immunology, School of Medicine, Faculty of Health Sciences, University of Pretoria, Pretoria, South Africa
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