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Bonvin E, Personne H, Paschoud T, Reusser J, Gan BH, Luscher A, Köhler T, van Delden C, Reymond JL. Antimicrobial Peptide-Peptoid Hybrids with and without Membrane Disruption. ACS Infect Dis 2023; 9:2593-2606. [PMID: 38062792 PMCID: PMC10714400 DOI: 10.1021/acsinfecdis.3c00421] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/18/2023] [Revised: 11/06/2023] [Accepted: 11/06/2023] [Indexed: 12/18/2023]
Abstract
Among synthetic analogues of antimicrobial peptides (AMPs) under investigation to address antimicrobial resistance, peptoids (N-alkylated oligoglycines) have been reported to act both by membrane disruption and on intracellular targets. Here we gradually introduced peptoid units into the membrane-disruptive undecapeptide KKLLKLLKLLL to test a possible transition toward intracellular targeting. We found that selected hybrids containing up to five peptoid units retained the parent AMP's α-helical folding, membrane disruption, and antimicrobial effects against Gram-negative bacteria including multidrug-resistant (MDR) strains of Pseudomonas aeruginosa and Klebsiella pneumoniae while showing reduced hemolysis and cell toxicities. Furthermore, some hybrids containing as few as three peptoid units as well as the full peptoid lost folding, membrane disruption, hemolysis, and cytotoxicity but displayed strong antibacterial activity under dilute medium conditions typical for proline-rich antimicrobial peptides (PrAMPs), pointing to intracellular targeting. These findings parallel previous reports that partially helical amphiphilic peptoids are privileged oligomers for antibiotic development.
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Affiliation(s)
- Etienne Bonvin
- Department
of Chemistry, Biochemistry and Pharmaceutical Sciences, University of Bern, Freiestrasse 3, CH-3012 Bern, Switzerland
| | - Hippolyte Personne
- Department
of Chemistry, Biochemistry and Pharmaceutical Sciences, University of Bern, Freiestrasse 3, CH-3012 Bern, Switzerland
| | - Thierry Paschoud
- Department
of Chemistry, Biochemistry and Pharmaceutical Sciences, University of Bern, Freiestrasse 3, CH-3012 Bern, Switzerland
| | - Jérémie Reusser
- Department
of Chemistry, Biochemistry and Pharmaceutical Sciences, University of Bern, Freiestrasse 3, CH-3012 Bern, Switzerland
| | - Bee-Ha Gan
- Department
of Chemistry, Biochemistry and Pharmaceutical Sciences, University of Bern, Freiestrasse 3, CH-3012 Bern, Switzerland
| | - Alexandre Luscher
- Department
of Microbiology and Molecular Medicine, University of Geneva, CH-1211 Geneva, Switzerland
- Service of
Infectious Diseases, University Hospital
of Geneva, CH-1211 Geneva, Switzerland
| | - Thilo Köhler
- Department
of Microbiology and Molecular Medicine, University of Geneva, CH-1211 Geneva, Switzerland
- Service of
Infectious Diseases, University Hospital
of Geneva, CH-1211 Geneva, Switzerland
| | - Christian van Delden
- Department
of Microbiology and Molecular Medicine, University of Geneva, CH-1211 Geneva, Switzerland
- Service of
Infectious Diseases, University Hospital
of Geneva, CH-1211 Geneva, Switzerland
| | - Jean-Louis Reymond
- Department
of Chemistry, Biochemistry and Pharmaceutical Sciences, University of Bern, Freiestrasse 3, CH-3012 Bern, Switzerland
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Varponi I, Ferro S, Menilli L, Grapputo A, Moret F, Mastrotto F, Marin O, Sandrelli F. Fighting Pseudomonas aeruginosa Infections: Antibacterial and Antibiofilm Activity of D-Q53 CecB, a Synthetic Analog of a Silkworm Natural Cecropin B Variant. Int J Mol Sci 2023; 24:12496. [PMID: 37569868 PMCID: PMC10419416 DOI: 10.3390/ijms241512496] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/24/2023] [Revised: 08/02/2023] [Accepted: 08/04/2023] [Indexed: 08/13/2023] Open
Abstract
Pseudomonas aeruginosa is an opportunistic Gram-negative bacterium responsible for severe nosocomial infections and is considered a critical pulmonary pathogen for both immunocompromised and cystic fibrosis patients. Planktonic cells of P. aeruginosa possess intrinsic and acquired resistances, inactivating several classes of conventional antibiotics. Additionally, this bacterium can grow, forming biofilms, and complex structures, further hampering the action of multiple antibiotics. Here, we report the biological properties of D-Q53 CecB, an all-D enantiomer of the silkworm natural peptide Q53 CecB. Compared to the L-variant, D-Q53 CecB was resistant to in vitro degradation by humans and P. aeruginosa elastases and showed an enhanced bactericidal activity against P. aeruginosa planktonic bacteria. D-Q53 CecB was thermostable and maintained its antimicrobial activity at high salt concentrations and in the presence of divalent cations or fetal-bovine serum, although at reduced levels. Against different types of human cells, D-Q53 CecB showed cytotoxic phenomena at concentrations several folds higher compared to those active against P. aeruginosa. When L- and D-Q53 CecB were compared for their antibiofilm properties, both peptides were active in inhibiting biofilm formation. However, the D-enantiomer was extremely effective in inducing biofilm degradation, suggesting this peptide as a favorable candidate in an anti-Pseudomonas therapy.
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Affiliation(s)
- Irene Varponi
- Department of Biology, University of Padova, Via U. Bassi 58/B, 35131 Padova, Italy; (I.V.); (L.M.); (A.G.); (F.M.)
| | - Stefania Ferro
- Department of Biomedical Sciences, University of Padova, Via U. Bassi 58/B, 35131 Padova, Italy; (S.F.); (O.M.)
| | - Luca Menilli
- Department of Biology, University of Padova, Via U. Bassi 58/B, 35131 Padova, Italy; (I.V.); (L.M.); (A.G.); (F.M.)
| | - Alessandro Grapputo
- Department of Biology, University of Padova, Via U. Bassi 58/B, 35131 Padova, Italy; (I.V.); (L.M.); (A.G.); (F.M.)
- National Biodiversity Future Centre, Piazza Marina 61, 90133 Palermo, Italy
| | - Francesca Moret
- Department of Biology, University of Padova, Via U. Bassi 58/B, 35131 Padova, Italy; (I.V.); (L.M.); (A.G.); (F.M.)
| | - Francesca Mastrotto
- Department of Pharmaceutical and Pharmacological Sciences, University of Padova, Via F. Marzolo 5, 35131 Padova, Italy;
| | - Oriano Marin
- Department of Biomedical Sciences, University of Padova, Via U. Bassi 58/B, 35131 Padova, Italy; (S.F.); (O.M.)
| | - Federica Sandrelli
- Department of Biology, University of Padova, Via U. Bassi 58/B, 35131 Padova, Italy; (I.V.); (L.M.); (A.G.); (F.M.)
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Janicka-Kłos A, Czapor-Irzabek H, Janek T. The Potential Antimicrobial Action of Human Mucin 7 15-Mer Peptide and Its Metal Complexes. Int J Mol Sci 2021; 23:ijms23010418. [PMID: 35008844 PMCID: PMC8745124 DOI: 10.3390/ijms23010418] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/24/2021] [Revised: 12/27/2021] [Accepted: 12/28/2021] [Indexed: 12/26/2022] Open
Abstract
Mucin 7 (encoded byMUC7) is a human salivary protein that has a role in the natural immune system. Fragments of mucin 7 exhibit antimicrobial activity against bacteria and yeast. Although the antimicrobial properties of peptides have been known and studied for decades, the exact mechanism of action of antimicrobial peptides (AMPs) is still unclear. It is known that some AMPs require divalent metal ions to activate their activity. Herein, we investigated three 15-mer MUC7 peptides, one of which (mother peptide, sequence, L3) is a synthetic analog of a fragment naturally excised from MUC7 (with His3, His8, and His 14) and its two structural analogs, containing only two histidine residues, His3, His13 and His8, His13 (L2 and L1, respectively). Since there is a correlation between lipophilicity, the presence of metal ions (such as Cu(II) and Zn(II)) and antimicrobial activity of AMP, antimicrobial properties of the studied peptides, as well as their complexes with Cu(II) and Zn(II) ions, were tested for activity against Gram-positive (Enterococcus faecalis, Staphylococcus epidermidis) and Gram-negative (Escherichia coli, Pseudomonas aeruginosa) bacteria and fungi (Candida albicans). The results were correlated with their lipophilicity. Coordination and thermodynamic studies (potentiometry, UV-Vis, CD) revealed the formation of mainly mononuclear complexes in solution for all studied systems with different stability in the physiological pH range.
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Affiliation(s)
- Anna Janicka-Kłos
- Department of Inorganic Chemistry, Wroclaw Medical University, Borowska 211A, 50-556 Wroclaw, Poland
- Correspondence:
| | - Hanna Czapor-Irzabek
- Laboratory of Elemental Analysts and Structural Research, Wroclaw Medical University, Borowska 211A, 50-556 Wroclaw, Poland;
| | - Tomasz Janek
- Department of Biotechnology and Food Microbiology, Wroclaw University of Environmental and Life Sciences, 51-630 Wroclaw, Poland;
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Nunes LGP, Reichert T, Machini MT. His-Rich Peptides, Gly- and His-Rich Peptides: Functionally Versatile Compounds with Potential Multi-Purpose Applications. Int J Pept Res Ther 2021. [DOI: 10.1007/s10989-021-10302-z] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/01/2022]
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Morphogenetic (Mucin Expression) as Well as Potential Anti-Corona Viral Activity of the Marine Secondary Metabolite Polyphosphate on A549 Cells. Mar Drugs 2020; 18:md18120639. [PMID: 33327522 PMCID: PMC7764923 DOI: 10.3390/md18120639] [Citation(s) in RCA: 23] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/11/2020] [Revised: 12/04/2020] [Accepted: 12/09/2020] [Indexed: 12/14/2022] Open
Abstract
The mucus layer of the nasopharynx and bronchial epithelium has a barrier function against inhaled pathogens such as the coronavirus SARS-CoV-2. We recently found that inorganic polyphosphate (polyP), a physiological, metabolic energy (ATP)-providing polymer released from blood platelets, blocks the binding of the receptor binding domain (RBD) to the cellular ACE2 receptor in vitro. PolyP is a marine natural product and is abundantly present in marine bacteria. Now, we have approached the in vivo situation by studying the effect of polyP on the human alveolar basal epithelial A549 cells in a mucus-like mucin environment. These cells express mucins as well as the ectoenzymes alkaline phosphatase (ALP) and adenylate kinase (ADK), which are involved in the extracellular production of ATP from polyP. Mucin, integrated into a collagen-based hydrogel, stimulated cell growth and attachment. The addition of polyP to the hydrogel significantly increased cell attachment and also the expression of the membrane-tethered mucin MUC1 and the secreted mucin MUC5AC. The increased synthesis of MUC1 was also confirmed by immunostaining. This morphogenetic effect of polyP was associated with a rise in extracellular ATP level. We conclude that the nontoxic and non-immunogenic polymer polyP could possibly also exert a protective effect against SARS-CoV-2-cell attachment; first, by stimulating the innate antiviral response by strengthening the mucin barrier with its antimicrobial proteins, and second, by inhibiting virus attachment to the cells, as deduced from the reduction in the strength of binding between the viral RBD and the cellular ACE2 receptor.
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6
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Niu JY, Yin IX, Wu WKK, Li QL, Mei ML, Chu CH. Antimicrobial peptides for the prevention and treatment of dental caries: A concise review. Arch Oral Biol 2020; 122:105022. [PMID: 33418434 DOI: 10.1016/j.archoralbio.2020.105022] [Citation(s) in RCA: 47] [Impact Index Per Article: 11.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/13/2020] [Revised: 12/04/2020] [Accepted: 12/05/2020] [Indexed: 10/22/2022]
Abstract
The objective of this study was to perform a comprehensive review of the use of antimicrobial peptides for the prevention and treatment of dental caries. The study included publications in the English language that addressed the use of antimicrobial peptides in the prevention and treatment of caries. These publications were also searchable on PubMed, Web of Science, Embase, Scopus, the Collection of Anti-Microbial Peptides and the Antimicrobial Peptide Database. A total of 3,436 publications were identified, and 67 publications were included. Eight publications reported seven natural human antimicrobial peptides as bactericidal to Streptococcus mutans. Fifty-nine publications reported 43 synthetic antimicrobial peptides developed to mimic natural antimicrobial peptides, fusing peptides with functional sequences and implementing new designs. The 43 synthetic antimicrobial peptides were effective against Streptococcus mutans, and nine peptides specifically targeted Streptococcus mutans. Ten antimicrobial peptides had an affinity for hydroxyapatite to prevent bacterial adhesion. Six antimicrobial peptides were also antifungal. Four antimicrobial peptides promoted remineralisation or prevented the demineralisation of teeth by binding calcium to hydroxyapatite. In conclusion, this study identified 67 works in the literature that reported seven natural and 43 synthetic antimicrobial peptides for the prevention and treatment of caries. Most of the antimicrobial peptides were bactericidal, and some prevented bacterial adhesion. A few antimicrobial peptides displayed remineralising properties with hydroxyapatite.
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Affiliation(s)
- John Yun Niu
- Faculty of Dentistry, The University of Hong Kong, Hong Kong, China.
| | - Iris Xiaoxue Yin
- Faculty of Dentistry, The University of Hong Kong, Hong Kong, China.
| | - William Ka Kei Wu
- Department of Anaesthesia & Intensive Care, The Chinese University of Hong Kong, Hong Kong, China.
| | - Quan-Li Li
- School of Stomatology, Anhui Medical University, Hefei, China.
| | - May Lei Mei
- Faculty of Dentistry, The University of Hong Kong, Hong Kong, China; Faculty of Dentistry, University of Otago, Dunedin, New Zealand.
| | - Chun Hung Chu
- Faculty of Dentistry, The University of Hong Kong, Hong Kong, China.
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7
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Tall YA, Al-Rawashdeh B, Abualhaijaa A, Almaaytah A, Masadeh M, Alzoubi KH. Functional Characterization of a Novel Hybrid Peptide with High Potency against Gram-negative Bacteria. Curr Pharm Des 2020; 26:376-385. [PMID: 32003660 DOI: 10.2174/1381612826666200128090700] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/24/2019] [Accepted: 01/27/2020] [Indexed: 11/22/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Multi-drug resistant infections are a growing worldwide health concern. There is an urgent need to produce alternative antimicrobial agents. OBJECTIVE The study aimed to design a new hybrid antimicrobial peptide, and to evaluate its antimicrobial activity alone and in combination with traditional antibiotics. METHODS Herein, we designed a novel hybrid peptide (BMR-1) using the primary sequences of the parent peptides Frog Esculentin-1a and Monkey Rhesus cathelicidin (RL-37). The positive net charge was increased, and other physicochemical parameters were optimized. The antimicrobial activities of BMR-1 were tested against control and multi-drug resistant gram-negative bacteria. RESULTS BMR-1 adopted a bactericidal behavior with MIC values of 25-30 µM. These values reduced by over 75% upon combination with conventional antibiotics (levofloxacin, chloramphenicol, ampicillin, and rifampicin). The combination showed strong synergistic activities in most cases and particularly against multi-drug resistance P. aeruginosa and E. coli. BMR-1 showed similar potency against all tested strains regardless of their resistant mechanisms. BMR-1 exhibited no hemolytic effect on human red blood cells with the effective MIC values against the tested strains. CONCLUSION BMR-1 hybrid peptide is a promising candidate to treat resistant infectious diseases caused by gramnegative bacteria.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yara Al Tall
- Department of Pharmaceutical Technology, Faculty of Pharmacy, Jordan University of Science and Technology, Irbid 22110, Jordan
| | - Baha'a Al-Rawashdeh
- Department of Toxicology and Forensic Science, Faculty of Medicine, Jordan University of Science and Technology, Irbid 22110, Jordan
| | - Ahmad Abualhaijaa
- Department of Pharmaceutical Technology, Faculty of Pharmacy, Jordan University of Science and Technology, Irbid 22110, Jordan
| | - Ammar Almaaytah
- Department of Pharmaceutical Technology, Faculty of Pharmacy, Jordan University of Science and Technology, Irbid 22110, Jordan.,Department of Pharmacy, Faculty of Pharmacy, Middle East University, Amman, Jordan
| | - Majed Masadeh
- Department of Pharmaceutical Technology, Faculty of Pharmacy, Jordan University of Science and Technology, Irbid 22110, Jordan
| | - Karem H Alzoubi
- Department of Clinical Pharmacy, Faculty of Pharmacy, Jordan University of Science and Technology, Irbid 22110, Jordan
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8
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Mercer DK, Torres MDT, Duay SS, Lovie E, Simpson L, von Köckritz-Blickwede M, de la Fuente-Nunez C, O'Neil DA, Angeles-Boza AM. Antimicrobial Susceptibility Testing of Antimicrobial Peptides to Better Predict Efficacy. Front Cell Infect Microbiol 2020; 10:326. [PMID: 32733816 PMCID: PMC7358464 DOI: 10.3389/fcimb.2020.00326] [Citation(s) in RCA: 57] [Impact Index Per Article: 14.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/06/2020] [Accepted: 05/29/2020] [Indexed: 12/11/2022] Open
Abstract
During the development of antimicrobial peptides (AMP) as potential therapeutics, antimicrobial susceptibility testing (AST) stands as an essential part of the process in identification and optimisation of candidate AMP. Standard methods for AST, developed almost 60 years ago for testing conventional antibiotics, are not necessarily fit for purpose when it comes to determining the susceptibility of microorganisms to AMP. Without careful consideration of the parameters comprising AST there is a risk of failing to identify novel antimicrobials at a time when antimicrobial resistance (AMR) is leading the planet toward a post-antibiotic era. More physiologically/clinically relevant AST will allow better determination of the preclinical activity of drug candidates and allow the identification of lead compounds. An important consideration is the efficacy of AMP in biological matrices replicating sites of infection, e.g., blood/plasma/serum, lung bronchiolar lavage fluid/sputum, urine, biofilms, etc., as this will likely be more predictive of clinical efficacy. Additionally, specific AST for different target microorganisms may help to better predict efficacy of AMP in specific infections. In this manuscript, we describe what we believe are the key considerations for AST of AMP and hope that this information can better guide the preclinical development of AMP toward becoming a new generation of urgently needed antimicrobials.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Marcelo D. T. Torres
- Machine Biology Group, Departments of Psychiatry and Microbiology, Institute for Biomedical Informatics, Institute for Translational Medicine and Therapeutics, Perelman School of Medicine, Penn Institute for Computational Science, and Department of Bioengineering, University of Pennsylvania, Philadelphia, PA, United States
| | - Searle S. Duay
- Department of Chemistry, Institute of Materials Science, University of Connecticut, Storrs, CT, United States
| | - Emma Lovie
- NovaBiotics Ltd, Aberdeen, United Kingdom
| | | | | | - Cesar de la Fuente-Nunez
- Machine Biology Group, Departments of Psychiatry and Microbiology, Institute for Biomedical Informatics, Institute for Translational Medicine and Therapeutics, Perelman School of Medicine, Penn Institute for Computational Science, and Department of Bioengineering, University of Pennsylvania, Philadelphia, PA, United States
| | | | - Alfredo M. Angeles-Boza
- Department of Chemistry, Institute of Materials Science, University of Connecticut, Storrs, CT, United States
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9
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Janicka-Kłos A, Janek T, Burger J, Czapor-Irzabek H. Human salivary MUC7 mucin fragment and its analogues. Coordination and biological studies. J Inorg Biochem 2020; 203:110923. [DOI: 10.1016/j.jinorgbio.2019.110923] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/29/2019] [Revised: 11/08/2019] [Accepted: 11/12/2019] [Indexed: 12/17/2022]
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10
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Romoli O, Mukherjee S, Mohid SA, Dutta A, Montali A, Franzolin E, Brady D, Zito F, Bergantino E, Rampazzo C, Tettamanti G, Bhunia A, Sandrelli F. Enhanced Silkworm Cecropin B Antimicrobial Activity against Pseudomonas aeruginosa from Single Amino Acid Variation. ACS Infect Dis 2019; 5:1200-1213. [PMID: 31045339 DOI: 10.1021/acsinfecdis.9b00042] [Citation(s) in RCA: 28] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/10/2023]
Abstract
Pseudomonas aeruginosa is an opportunistic bacterial pathogen causing severe infections in hospitalized and immunosuppressed patients, particularly individuals affected by cystic fibrosis. Several clinically isolated P. aeruginosa strains were found to be resistant to three or more antimicrobial classes indicating the importance of identifying new antimicrobials active against this pathogen. Here, we characterized the antimicrobial activity and the action mechanisms against P. aeruginosa of two natural isoforms of the antimicrobial peptide cecropin B, both isolated from the silkworm Bombyx mori. These cecropin B isoforms differ in a single amino acid substitution within the active portion of the peptide, so that the glutamic acid of the E53 CecB variant is replaced by a glutamine in the Q53 CecB isoform. Both peptides showed a high antimicrobial and membranolytic activity against P. aeruginosa, with Q53 CecB displaying greater activity compared with the E53 CecB isoform. Biophysical analyses, live-cell NMR, and molecular-dynamic-simulation studies indicated that both peptides might act as membrane-interacting elements, which can disrupt outer-membrane organization, facilitating their translocation toward the inner membrane of the bacterial cell. Our data also suggest that the amino acid variation of the Q53 CecB isoform represents a critical factor in stabilizing the hydrophobic segment that interacts with the bacterial membrane, determining the highest antimicrobial activity of the whole peptide. Its high stability to pH and temperature variations, tolerance to high salt concentrations, and low toxicity against human cells make Q53 CecB a promising candidate in the development of CecB-derived compounds against P. aeruginosa.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ottavia Romoli
- Department of Biology, University of Padova, Via Ugo Bassi 58/B, 35131 Padova, Italy
| | - Shruti Mukherjee
- Department of Biophysics, Bose Institute, P-1/12 CIT Scheme VII (M), 700 054 Kolkata, India
| | - Sk Abdul Mohid
- Department of Biophysics, Bose Institute, P-1/12 CIT Scheme VII (M), 700 054 Kolkata, India
| | - Arkajyoti Dutta
- Department of Chemistry, Bose Institute, 93/1 A P C Road, 700 009 Kolkata, India
| | - Aurora Montali
- Department of Biotechnology and Life Sciences, University of Insubria, Via Jean Henry Dunant, 3, 21100 Varese, Italy
| | - Elisa Franzolin
- Department of Biology, University of Padova, Via Ugo Bassi 58/B, 35131 Padova, Italy
| | - Daniel Brady
- Department of Biology, University of Padova, Via Ugo Bassi 58/B, 35131 Padova, Italy
| | - Francesca Zito
- Laboratoire de Biologie Physico-Chimique des Protéines Membranaires, Institut de Biologie Physico-Chimique, CNRS, UMR7099, University Paris Diderot, Sorbonne Paris Cité, Paris Sciences et Lettres Research University, F-75005 Paris, France
| | - Elisabetta Bergantino
- Department of Biology, University of Padova, Via Ugo Bassi 58/B, 35131 Padova, Italy
| | - Chiara Rampazzo
- Department of Biology, University of Padova, Via Ugo Bassi 58/B, 35131 Padova, Italy
| | - Gianluca Tettamanti
- Department of Biotechnology and Life Sciences, University of Insubria, Via Jean Henry Dunant, 3, 21100 Varese, Italy
| | - Anirban Bhunia
- Department of Biophysics, Bose Institute, P-1/12 CIT Scheme VII (M), 700 054 Kolkata, India
| | - Federica Sandrelli
- Department of Biology, University of Padova, Via Ugo Bassi 58/B, 35131 Padova, Italy
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11
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Mall AS, Habte H, Mthembu Y, Peacocke J, de Beer C. Mucus and Mucins: do they have a role in the inhibition of the human immunodeficiency virus? Virol J 2017; 14:192. [PMID: 28985745 PMCID: PMC5639604 DOI: 10.1186/s12985-017-0855-9] [Citation(s) in RCA: 32] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/26/2017] [Accepted: 09/22/2017] [Indexed: 12/13/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Mucins are large O-linked glycosylated proteins which give mucus their gel-forming properties. There are indications that mucus and mucins in saliva, breast milk and in the cervical plug inhibit the human immunodeficiency virus (HIV-1) in an in vitro assay. Crude mucus gels form continuous layers on the epithelial surfaces of the major internal tracts of the body and protect these epithelial surfaces against aggressive luminal factors such as hydrochloric acid and pepsin proteolysis in the stomach lumen, the movement of hard faecal pellets in the colon at high pressure, the effects of shear against the vaginal epithelium during intercourse and the presence of foreign substances in the respiratory airways. Tumour-associated epitopes on mucins make them suitable as immune-targets on malignant epithelial cells, rendering mucins important as diagnostic and prognostic markers for various diseases, even influencing the design of mucin-based vaccines. Sub-Saharan Africa has the highest prevalence of HIV-AIDS in the world. The main points of viral transmission are via the vaginal epithelium during sexual intercourse and mother-to-child transmission during breast-feeding. There have been many studies showing that several body fluids have components that prevent the transmission of HIV-1 from infected to non-infected persons through various forms of contact. Crude saliva and its purified mucins, MUC5B and MUC7, and the purified mucins from breast milk, MUC1 and MUC4 and pregnancy plug cervical mucus (MUC2, MUC5AC, MUC5B and MUC6), inhibit HIV-1 in an in vitro assay. There are conflicting reports of whether crude breast-milk inhibits HIV-1 in an in vitro assay. However studies with a humanised BLT mouse show that breast-milk does inhibit HIV and that breast-feeding is still advisable even amongst HIV-positive women in under-resourced areas, preferably in conjunction with anti-retroviral treatment. CONCLUSION These findings raise questions of how such a naturally occurring biological substance such as mucus, with remarkable protective properties of epithelial surfaces against aggressive luminal factors in delicate locations, could be used as a tool in the fight against HIV-AIDS, which has reached epidemic proportions in sub-Saharan Africa.
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Affiliation(s)
- Anwar Suleman Mall
- Division of General Surgery, University of Cape Town and Immune Modulation and Biotherapeutics Discovery, Boehringer- Ingelheim, Danbury, USA
| | - Habtom Habte
- Discipline of Medical Virology, University of Stellenbosch & Tygerberg Hospital, Parow, South Africa
| | - Yolanda Mthembu
- Division of General Surgery, University of Cape Town and Immune Modulation and Biotherapeutics Discovery, Boehringer- Ingelheim, Danbury, USA
| | - Julia Peacocke
- Division of General Surgery, University of Cape Town and Immune Modulation and Biotherapeutics Discovery, Boehringer- Ingelheim, Danbury, USA
| | - Corena de Beer
- Department of Surgery, Division of General Surgery, University of Cape Town, Observatory Cape, 7925 South Africa
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12
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Bondaryk M, Staniszewska M, Zielińska P, Urbańczyk-Lipkowska Z. Natural Antimicrobial Peptides as Inspiration for Design of a New Generation Antifungal Compounds. J Fungi (Basel) 2017; 3:E46. [PMID: 29371563 PMCID: PMC5715947 DOI: 10.3390/jof3030046] [Citation(s) in RCA: 79] [Impact Index Per Article: 11.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/27/2017] [Revised: 08/16/2017] [Accepted: 08/22/2017] [Indexed: 12/16/2022] Open
Abstract
Invasive fungal infections are associated with high mortality rates, despite appropriate antifungal therapy. Limited therapeutic options, resistance development and the high mortality of invasive fungal infections brought about more concern triggering the search for new compounds capable of interfering with fungal viability and virulence. In this context, peptides gained attention as promising candidates for the antimycotics development. Variety of structural and functional characteristics identified for various natural antifungal peptides makes them excellent starting points for design novel drug candidates. Current review provides a brief overview of natural and synthetic antifungal peptides.
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Affiliation(s)
- Małgorzata Bondaryk
- National Institute of Public Health-National Institute of Hygiene, Chocimska 24, 00-791 Warsaw, Poland.
| | - Monika Staniszewska
- National Institute of Public Health-National Institute of Hygiene, Chocimska 24, 00-791 Warsaw, Poland.
| | - Paulina Zielińska
- Institute of Organic Chemistry, Polish Academy of Sciences, 01-224 Warsaw, Poland.
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13
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Wilms D, Andrä J. Comparison of patient-derived high and low phosphatidylserine-exposing colorectal carcinoma cells in their interaction with anti-cancer peptides. J Pept Sci 2017; 23:56-67. [PMID: 28066958 DOI: 10.1002/psc.2963] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/15/2016] [Revised: 12/01/2016] [Accepted: 12/07/2016] [Indexed: 01/10/2023]
Abstract
Current cancer treatment is frequently compromised by severe adverse effects on healthy cells and tissues as well as by the increasing burden of (multi-)drug resistances. Some representatives of small, amphipathic peptides known as host defense peptides possess the potential to overcome these limitations and to evolve as future anti-cancer therapeutics. Peptide NK-2, derived from porcine NK-lysin, was originally discovered due to its broad-spectrum antimicrobial activities. Today, also potent anti-cancer activity is proven and accompanied by low toxicity towards normal human cells. The molecular basis underlying this target selectivity remains rather elusive. Nevertheless, it is presumptive that preferential peptide interactions with surface factors non-abundant on healthy human cells play a key role. Here, we investigated the cytotoxicity of peptide NK-2 and structurally improved anti-cancer variants thereof against two patient-derived colorectal cancer cell lines, exposing high and low levels of phosphatidylserine on their cell surfaces, respectively. Concluding from a range of in vitro tests involving cellular as well as lipid vesicle-based methods, it is proposed that the magnitude of the accessible membrane surface charge is not a primarily decisive factor for selective peptide interactions. Instead, it is suggested that the level of membrane surface-exposed phosphatidylserine is of crucial importance for the activity of peptide NK-2 and enhanced variants thereof in terms of their cancer cell selectivity, the overall efficacy, as well as the underlying mode of action and kinetics. Copyright © 2017 European Peptide Society and John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
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Affiliation(s)
- Dominik Wilms
- Faculty of Life Sciences, Department of Biotechnology, Hamburg University of Applied Sciences, Ulmenliet 20, D-21033, Hamburg, Germany
| | - Jörg Andrä
- Faculty of Life Sciences, Department of Biotechnology, Hamburg University of Applied Sciences, Ulmenliet 20, D-21033, Hamburg, Germany
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Abstract
In recent years, the increase of invasive fungal infections and the emergence of antifungal resistance stressed the need for new antifungal drugs. Peptides have shown to be good candidates for the development of alternative antimicrobial agents through high-throughput screening, and subsequent optimization according to a rational approach. This review presents a brief overview on antifungal natural peptides of different sources (animals, plants, micro-organisms), peptide fragments derived by proteolytic cleavage of precursor physiological proteins (cryptides), synthetic unnatural peptides and peptide derivatives. Antifungal peptides are schematically reported based on their structure, antifungal spectrum and reported effects. Natural or synthetic peptides and their modified derivatives may represent the basis for new compounds active against fungal infections.
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Koç Öztürk L, Yarat A, Akyuz S, Furuncuoglu H, Ulucan K. Investigation of the N-terminal coding region of MUC7 alterations in dentistry students with and without caries. Balkan J Med Genet 2016; 19:71-76. [PMID: 27785410 PMCID: PMC5026282 DOI: 10.1515/bjmg-2016-0009] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/15/2022] Open
Abstract
Human low-molecular weight salivary mucin (MUC7) is a small, secreted glycoprotein coded by MUC7. In the oral cavity, they inhibit the colonization of oral bacteria, including cariogenic ones, by masking their surface adhesions, thus helping saliva to avoid dental caries. The N-terminal domain is important for low-molecular weight (MG2) mucins to contact with oral microorganisms. In this study, we aimed to identify the N-terminal coding region of the MUC7 gene between individuals with and without caries. Forty-four healthy dental students were enrolled in this study; 24 of them were classified to have caries [decayed, missing, filled-teeth (DMFT) = 5.6] according to the World Health Organization (WHO) criteria, and 20 of them were caries-free (DMFT = 0). Simplified oral hygiene index (OHI-S) and gingival index (GI) were used to determine the oral hygiene and gingival conditions. Total protein levels and salivary total protein levels and salivary buffer capacity (SBC) were determined by Lowry and Ericsson methods. DNA was extracted from peripheral blood cells of all the participants and genotyping was carried out by a polymerase chain reaction (PCR)-sequencing method. No statistical differences were found between two groups in the terms of salivary parameters, oral hygiene and gingival conditions. We detected one common single nucleotide polymorphism (SNP) that leads to a change of asparagine to lysine at codon 80. This substitution was found in 29.0 and 40.0%, respectively, of the groups with and without caries. No other sequence variations were detected. The SNP found in this study may be a specific polymorphism affecting the Turkish population. Further studies with extended numbers are necessary in order to clarify this finding.
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Affiliation(s)
- L Koç Öztürk
- Department of Basic Medical Sciences, Faculty of Dentistry, Marmara University, Istanbul, Turkey
| | - A Yarat
- Department of Basic Medical Sciences, Faculty of Dentistry, Marmara University, Istanbul, Turkey
| | - S Akyuz
- Department of Clinical Sciences, Faculty of Dentristry, Marmara University, Istanbul, Turkey
| | - H Furuncuoglu
- Department of Clinical Sciences, Faculty of Dentristry, Marmara University, Istanbul, Turkey
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Using adjuvants and environmental factors to modulate the activity of antimicrobial peptides. BIOCHIMICA ET BIOPHYSICA ACTA-BIOMEMBRANES 2016; 1858:926-35. [PMID: 26751595 DOI: 10.1016/j.bbamem.2015.12.034] [Citation(s) in RCA: 38] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/16/2015] [Revised: 12/22/2015] [Accepted: 12/29/2015] [Indexed: 12/12/2022]
Abstract
The increase in antibiotic resistant and multi-drug resistant bacterial infections has serious implications for the future of health care. The difficulty in finding both new microbial targets and new drugs against existing targets adds to the concern. The use of combination and adjuvant therapies are potential strategies to counter this threat. Antimicrobial peptides (AMPs) are a promising class of antibiotics (ABs), particularly for topical and surface applications. Efforts have been directed toward a number of strategies, including the use of conventional ABs combined with AMPs, and the use of potentiating agents to increase the performance of AMPs. This review focuses on combination strategies such as adjuvants and the manipulation of environmental variables to improve the efficacy of AMPs as potential therapeutic agents. This article is part of a Special Issue entitled: Antimicrobial peptides edited by Karl Lohner and Kai Hilpert.
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Bachtiar EW, Soejoedono RD, Bachtiar BM, Henrietta A, Farhana N, Yuniastuti M. Effects of soybean milk, chitosan, and anti-Streptococcus mutans IgY in malnourished rats' dental biofilm and the IgY persistency in saliva. Interv Med Appl Sci 2015; 7:118-23. [PMID: 26525071 DOI: 10.1556/1646.7.2015.3.6] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/10/2015] [Revised: 04/17/2015] [Accepted: 05/07/2015] [Indexed: 01/08/2023] Open
Abstract
OBJECTIVE This study aims to evaluate the eff ect of soybean milk containing a combination of anti-Streptococcus mutans IgY and chitosan to the colonization of S. mutans in the saliva and to the IgY persistency in the saliva. MATERIALS AND METHODS Experimental malnourished Sprague-Dawley rats were fed with soybean milk that is enriched with anti-S. mutans IgY and chitosan. After 15 days of feeding, we evaluated the S. mutans in dental biofilm, in addition to the persistency level of anti-S. mutans IgY. RESULTS The rats that received soybean milk supplemented with anti-S. mutans IgY had the lowest number of S. mutans colonies (p < 0.05). Anti-S. mutans IgY was detected in saliva after 15 days of feeding. CONCLUSIONS Soybean milk supplemented with anti-S. mutans IgY and chitosan could signifi cantly reduce S. mutans biofilm, and the supplemented anti-S. mutans IgY persisted in these rats' saliva following the feeding period.
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18
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Insights into the antimicrobial properties of hepcidins: advantages and drawbacks as potential therapeutic agents. Molecules 2015; 20:6319-41. [PMID: 25867823 PMCID: PMC6272296 DOI: 10.3390/molecules20046319] [Citation(s) in RCA: 37] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/06/2015] [Revised: 03/30/2015] [Accepted: 04/03/2015] [Indexed: 01/24/2023] Open
Abstract
The increasing frequency of multi-drug resistant microorganisms has driven research into alternative therapeutic strategies. In this respect, natural antimicrobial peptides (AMPs) hold much promise as candidates for the development of novel antibiotics. However, AMPs have some intrinsic drawbacks, such as partial degradation by host proteases or inhibition by host body fluid composition, potential toxicity, and high production costs. This review focuses on the hepcidins, which are peptides produced by the human liver with a known role in iron homeostasis, as well by numerous other organisms (including fish, reptiles, other mammals), and their potential as antibacterial and antifungal agents. Interestingly, the antimicrobial properties of human hepcidins are enhanced at acidic pH, rendering these peptides appealing for the design of new drugs targeting infections that occur in body areas with acidic physiological pH. This review not only considers current research on the direct killing activity of these peptides, but evaluates the potential application of these molecules as coating agents preventing biofilm formation and critically assesses technical obstacles preventing their therapeutic application.
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19
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Abstract
Antimicrobial proteins and peptides are ubiquitous in nature with diverse structural and biological properties. Among them, the human beta-defensins are known to contribute to the innate immune response. Besides the defensins, a number of defensin-like proteins and peptides are expressed in many organ systems including the male reproductive system. Some of the protein isoforms encoded by the sperm associated antigen 11B (SPAG11) gene in humans are beta-defensin-like and exhibit structure dependent and salt tolerant antimicrobial activity, besides contributing to sperm maturation. Though some of the functional roles of these proteins are reported, the structural and molecular features that contribute to their antimicrobial activity is not yet reported. In this study, using in silico tools, we report the three dimensional structure of the human SPAG11B proteins and their C-terminal peptides. web-based hydropathy, amphipathicity, and topology (WHAT) analyses and grand average of hydropathy (GRAVY) indices show that these proteins and peptides are amphipathic and highly hydrophilic. Self-optimized prediction method with alignment (SOPMA) analyses and circular dichroism data suggest that the secondary structure of these proteins and peptides primarily contain beta-sheet and random coil structure and alpha-helix to a lesser extent. Ramachandran plots show that majority of the amino acids in these proteins and peptides fall in the permissible regions, thus indicating stable structures. The secondary structure of SPAG11B isoforms and their peptides were not perturbed with increasing NaCl concentration (0-300 mM) and at different pH (3, 7, and 10), thus reinforcing our previously reported observation that their antimicrobial activity is salt tolerant. To the best of our knowledge, for the first time, results of our study provide vital information on the structural features of SPAG11B protein isoforms and their contribution to antimicrobial activity.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ganapathy Narmadha
- Department of Animal Biology, University of Hyderabad , Andhra Pradesh , India
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20
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Walkenhorst WF, Sundrud JN, Laviolette JM. Additivity and synergy between an antimicrobial peptide and inhibitory ions. BIOCHIMICA ET BIOPHYSICA ACTA-BIOMEMBRANES 2014; 1838:2234-42. [PMID: 24841756 DOI: 10.1016/j.bbamem.2014.05.005] [Citation(s) in RCA: 12] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/18/2014] [Revised: 05/08/2014] [Accepted: 05/09/2014] [Indexed: 12/26/2022]
Abstract
Recently we described the pH dependence of activity for a family of cationic antimicrobial peptides (CAMPs) selected from a combinatorial library. In the current work we report on the effects of toxic ions (Cu(2+), Zn(2+), and F(-)) and the chelator EDTA on the activity profiles of one member of this family, the 12-residue cationic antimicrobial peptide *ARVA, against a panel of microorganisms. All four ions exhibited either synergy or additivity with *ARVA for all organisms tested with the exception of *ARVA combined with NaF against Candida albicans which exhibited indifference. CuCl2 and ZnCl2 exhibited synergy with *ARVA against both the Gram negative Pseudomonas aeruginosa and the Gram positive Staphylococcus aureus as well as strong additivity against Escherichia coli at submillimolar concentrations. The chelator EDTA was synergistic with *ARVA against the two Gram negative organisms but showed only simple additivity with S. aureus and C. albicans despite their much lower MICs with EDTA. This effect may be related to the known differences in the divalent ion binding properties of the Gram negative LPS layer as compared to the peptidoglycan layer of the Gram positive organism. Unlike the other ions, NaF showed only additivity or indifference when combined with *ARVA and required much higher concentrations for activity. The yeast C. albicans did not show synergy or strong additivity with any of the inhibitory compounds tested. The effects of toxic ions and chelators observed here have important implications for applications using CAMPs and for the design of novel formulations involving CAMPs. This article is part of a Special Issue entitled: Interfacially Active Peptides and Proteins. Guest Editors: William C. Wimley and Kalina Hristova.
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Affiliation(s)
- William F Walkenhorst
- Loyola University New Orleans, Department of Chemistry, 6363 St. Charles Avenue, New Orleans, LA 70118, USA.
| | - Justine N Sundrud
- Loyola University New Orleans, Department of Chemistry, 6363 St. Charles Avenue, New Orleans, LA 70118, USA
| | - Joshua M Laviolette
- Loyola University New Orleans, Department of Chemistry, 6363 St. Charles Avenue, New Orleans, LA 70118, USA
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Morais JKS, Bader O, Weig M, Oliveira JTA, Arantes MR, Gomes VM, Da Cunha M, Oliveira HD, Sousa DOB, Lourencao AL, Vasconcelos IM. Soybean toxin (SBTX) impairs fungal growth by interfering with molecular transport, carbohydrate/amino acid metabolism and drug/stress responses. PLoS One 2013; 8:e70425. [PMID: 23894655 PMCID: PMC3718677 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pone.0070425] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/08/2013] [Accepted: 06/18/2013] [Indexed: 02/05/2023] Open
Abstract
Soybean toxin (SBTX) is an antifungal protein from soybeans with broad inhibitory activity against the growth and filamentation of many fungi, including human and plant pathogenic species such as Candida albicans, Candida parapsilosis, Aspergillus niger, Penicillium herquei, Cercospora sojina and Cercospora kikuchii. Understanding the mechanism by which SBTX acts on fungi and yeasts may contribute to the design of novel antifungal drugs and/or the development of transgenic plants resistant to pathogens. To this end, the polymorphic yeast C. albicans was chosen as a model organism and changes in the gene expression profile of strain SC5314 upon exposure to SBTX were examined. Genes that were differentially regulated in the presence of SBTX were involved in glucose transport and starvation-associated stress responses as well as in the control of both the induction and repression of C. albicans hyphal formation. Transmission electron microscopy showed that C. albicans cells exposed to SBTX displayed severe signs of starvation and were heavily granulated. Our data were indicative of C. albicans cell starvation despite sufficient nutrient availability in the medium; therefore, it can be speculated that SBTX blocks nutrient uptake systems. Because neither the starvation signal nor the alkaline response pathway lead to the induction of hyphae, we hypothesise that conflicting signals are transmitted to the complex regulatory network controlling morphogenesis, eventually preventing the filamentation signal from reaching a significant threshold.
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Affiliation(s)
- Janne K. S. Morais
- Departament of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, Federal University of Ceará, Fortaleza, Ceará, Brazil
- Institute for Medical Microbiology and German National Reference Center for Systemic Mycoses, University Medical Center Göttingen, Göttingen, Niedersachsen, Germany
| | - Oliver Bader
- Institute for Medical Microbiology and German National Reference Center for Systemic Mycoses, University Medical Center Göttingen, Göttingen, Niedersachsen, Germany
| | - Michael Weig
- Institute for Medical Microbiology and German National Reference Center for Systemic Mycoses, University Medical Center Göttingen, Göttingen, Niedersachsen, Germany
| | - Jose Tadeu A. Oliveira
- Departament of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, Federal University of Ceará, Fortaleza, Ceará, Brazil
| | - Mariana R. Arantes
- Departament of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, Federal University of Ceará, Fortaleza, Ceará, Brazil
| | - Valdirene M. Gomes
- Bioscience and Biotecnology Center, State University of North Fluminense, Campos dos Goytacazes, Rio de Janeiro, Brazil
| | - Maura Da Cunha
- Bioscience and Biotecnology Center, State University of North Fluminense, Campos dos Goytacazes, Rio de Janeiro, Brazil
| | - Hermogenes D. Oliveira
- Departament of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, Federal University of Ceará, Fortaleza, Ceará, Brazil
| | - Daniele O. B. Sousa
- Departament of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, Federal University of Ceará, Fortaleza, Ceará, Brazil
| | | | - Ilka M. Vasconcelos
- Departament of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, Federal University of Ceará, Fortaleza, Ceará, Brazil
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Antifungal Activity of the Noncytotoxic Human Peptide Hepcidin 20 against Fluconazole-Resistant Candida glabrata in Human Vaginal Fluid. Antimicrob Agents Chemother 2013; 57:4314-4321. [PMID: 23796919 DOI: 10.1128/aac.00904-13] [Citation(s) in RCA: 14] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/29/2013] [Accepted: 06/18/2013] [Indexed: 11/20/2022] Open
Abstract
Vaginal infections caused by Candida glabrata are difficult to eradicate due to this species' scarce susceptibility to azoles. Previous studies have shown that the human cationic peptide hepcidin 20 (Hep-20) exerts fungicidal activity in sodium phosphate buffer against a panel of C. glabrata clinical isolates with different levels of susceptibility to fluconazole. In addition, the activity of the peptide was potentiated under acidic conditions, suggesting an application in the topical treatment of vaginal infections. To investigate whether the peptide activity could be maintained in biological fluids, in this study the antifungal activity of Hep-20 was evaluated by a killing assay in (i) a vaginal fluid simulant (VFS) and in (ii) human vaginal fluid (HVF) collected from three healthy donors. The results obtained indicated that the activity of the peptide was maintained in VFS and HVF supplemented with EDTA. Interestingly, the fungicidal activity of Hep-20 was enhanced in HVF compared to that observed in VFS, with a minimal fungicidal concentration of 25 μM for all donors. No cytotoxic effect on human cells was exerted by Hep-20 at concentrations ranging from 6.25 to 100 μM, as shown by 2,3-bis-(2-methoxy-4-nitro-5-sulfophenyl)-2H-tetrazolium-5-carboxanilide tetrazolium salt (XTT) reduction assay and propidium iodide staining. A piece of indirect evidence of Hep-20 stability was also obtained from coincubation experiments of the peptide with HVF at 37°C for 90 min and for 24 h. Collectively, these results indicate that this peptide should be further studied as a novel therapeutic agent for the topical treatment of vaginal C. glabrata infections.
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pH Dependence of microbe sterilization by cationic antimicrobial peptides. Antimicrob Agents Chemother 2013; 57:3312-20. [PMID: 23650166 DOI: 10.1128/aac.00063-13] [Citation(s) in RCA: 43] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/20/2022] Open
Abstract
We recently described a family of cationic antimicrobial peptides (CAMPs) selected from a combinatorial library that exhibited potent, broad-spectrum activity at neutral pH and low ionic strength. To further delimit the utility and activity profiles of these peptides, we investigated the effects of solution conditions, such as pH and ionic strength, on the efficacy of the peptide antimicrobials against a panel of microorganisms. Peptide minimum sterilizing concentrations (MSCs) varied linearly with pH for each subtype within our family of CAMPs for all organisms tested. The peptides were much less effective against Gram-negative bacteria at high pH, consistent with a decrease in net positive charge on the peptides. A similar trend was observed for the fungus Candida albicans. Surprisingly, the opposite pH trend was observed with the Gram-positive Staphylococcus aureus. In addition, an additive ionic strength effect was observed with increasing buffer strengths at identical pH values. The extreme difference in the observed pH behavior between Gram-negative and Gram-positive organisms is attributed to the presence of native charged molecules in the much thicker peptidoglycan layer of the Gram-positive organism. The novel species-specific effects of pH observed here have important implications for applications using CAMPs and for the design of novel CAMPs.
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Xie D, Weng Y, Guo X, Zhao J, Gregory RL, Zheng C. Preparation and evaluation of a novel glass-ionomer cement with antibacterial functions. Dent Mater 2011; 27:487-96. [PMID: 21388668 DOI: 10.1016/j.dental.2011.02.006] [Citation(s) in RCA: 131] [Impact Index Per Article: 10.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/10/2010] [Revised: 11/21/2010] [Accepted: 02/09/2011] [Indexed: 11/29/2022]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE The objective of this study was to use the newly synthesized poly(quaternary ammonium salt) (PQAS)-containing polyacid to formulate the light-curable glass-ionomer cements and study the effect of the PQAS on the compressive strength and antibacterial activity of the formed cements. MATERIALS AND METHODS The functional QAS and their constructed PQAS were synthesized, characterized and formulated into the experimental high-strength cements. Compressive strength (CS) and Streptococcus mutans viability were used to evaluate the mechanical strength and antibacterial activity of the cements. Fuji II LC cement was used as control. The specimens were conditioned in distilled water at 37°C for 24 h prior to testing. The effects of the substitute chain length, loading as well as grafting ratio of the QAS and aging on CS and S. mutans viability were investigated. RESULTS All the PQAS-containing cements showed a significant antibacterial activity, accompanying with an initial CS reduction. The effects of the chain length, loading and grafting ratio of the QAS were significant. Increasing chain length, loading, grafting ratio significantly enhanced antibacterial activity but reduced the initial CS. Under the same substitute chain length, the cements containing QAS bromide were found to be more antibacterial than those containing QAS chloride although the CS values of the cements were not statistically different from each other, suggesting that we can use QAS bromide directly without converting bromide to chloride. The experimental cement showed less CS reduction and higher antibacterial activity than Fuji II LC. The long-term aging study suggests that the cements may have a long-lasting antibacterial function. CONCLUSIONS This study developed a novel antibacterial glass-ionomer cement. Within the limitations of this study, it appears that the experimental cement is a clinically attractive dental restorative due to its high mechanical strength and antibacterial function.
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Affiliation(s)
- Dong Xie
- Department of Biomedical Engineering, Purdue School of Engineering and Technology, Indiana University-Purdue University at Indianapolis, Indianapolis, IN 46202, USA.
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25
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Weng Y, Guo X, Gregory RL, Xie D. Preparation and evaluation of an antibacterial dental cement containing quaternary ammonium salts. J Appl Polym Sci 2011. [DOI: 10.1002/app.34366] [Citation(s) in RCA: 15] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/11/2022]
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Henriques ST, Tan CC, Craik DJ, Clark RJ. Structural and Functional Analysis of Human Liver-Expressed Antimicrobial Peptide 2. Chembiochem 2010; 11:2148-57. [DOI: 10.1002/cbic.201000400] [Citation(s) in RCA: 36] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/06/2022]
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27
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Lis M, Liu TT, Barker KS, Rogers PD, Bobek LA. Antimicrobial peptide MUC7 12-mer activates the calcium/calcineurin pathway in Candida albicans. FEMS Yeast Res 2010; 10:579-86. [PMID: 20491945 DOI: 10.1111/j.1567-1364.2010.00638.x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 14] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/01/2022] Open
Abstract
MUC7 12-mer is a cationic antimicrobial peptide derived from the N-terminal region of human low-molecular-weight salivary mucin. In order to gain new insights into the modes of action of the 12-mer against opportunistic fungal pathogen Candida albicans, we examined changes in the gene expression profile of C. albicans upon exposure to this peptide. Cells at an early logarithmic phase were exposed to 6 muM peptide and grown until an OD(600 nm) of approximately 0.4 was reached. Changes in gene expression were determined by microarray analysis and showed that 19 out of the total of 531 genes, whose expression was elevated in response to the peptide, are regulated by the calcium/calcineurin signalling pathway. Inactivation of this pathway by deletions, or by FK506, caused hypersensitivity to the peptide, demonstrating the importance of this pathway to the defense of C. albicans against the MUC7 peptide. Other differentially expressed genes that were detected include those encoding subunits of proteasome, and genes involved in cell stress, iron metabolism, cell wall maintenance and small-molecule transport. The presented results suggest that the calcium/calcineurin signalling pathway plays a role in the adaptation of C. albicans to the MUC7 antimicrobial peptide.
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Affiliation(s)
- Maciej Lis
- Department of Oral Biology, University at Buffalo, The State University of New York, Buffalo, New York 14214, USA
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Exploring the mode of action of antimicrobial peptide MUC7 12-mer by fitness profiling of Saccharomyces cerevisiae genomewide mutant collection. Antimicrob Agents Chemother 2009; 53:3762-9. [PMID: 19596888 DOI: 10.1128/aac.00668-09] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 02/04/2023] Open
Abstract
The MUC7 12-mer (RKSYKCLHKRCR) is a cationic antimicrobial peptide derived from the human salivary mucin MUC7. To study its effect/mechanism of action on fungi, we performed a fitness screen of a tagged, diploid, homozygous gene deletion mutant pool of the yeast Saccharomyces cerevisiae grown in the presence of the MUC7 peptide. Forty-five strains exhibiting reduced fitness and 13 strains exhibiting increased fitness (sensitivity or resistance, respectively) were identified by hybridization intensities to tag arrays. The strongest fitness defects were observed with deletions in genes encoding elements of the RIM101 signaling pathway (regulating response to alkaline and neutral pH and other environmental conditions) and of the endosomal sorting complex required for transport (ESCRT; functioning mainly in protein sorting for degradation, but also required for activation of the RIM101 pathway). Other deletions identified as conferring fitness defect or gain are in genes associated with a variety of functions, including transcription regulation, protein trafficking, transport, metabolism, and others. The results of the pool fitness screen were validated by a set of mutant strains tested individually in the presence of the MUC7 12-mer. All tested RIM101-related deletion strains showing fitness defects confirmed their sensitivities. Taken together, the results led us to conclude that deletions of genes associated with the RIM101 pathway confer sensitivity to the peptide by preventing activation of this pathway and that this stress response plays a major role in the protection of S. cerevisiae against damage inflicted by the MUC7 12-mer peptide.
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