1
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Cheuka PM, Njaria P, Mayoka G, Funjika E. Emerging Drug Targets for Antimalarial Drug Discovery: Validation and Insights into Molecular Mechanisms of Function. J Med Chem 2024; 67:838-863. [PMID: 38198596 DOI: 10.1021/acs.jmedchem.3c01828] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/12/2024]
Abstract
Approximately 619,000 malaria deaths were reported in 2021, and resistance to recommended drugs, including artemisinin-combination therapies (ACTs), threatens malaria control. Treatment failure with ACTs has been found to be as high as 93% in northeastern Thailand, and parasite mutations responsible for artemisinin resistance have already been reported in some African countries. Therefore, there is an urgent need to identify alternative treatments with novel targets. In this Perspective, we discuss some promising antimalarial drug targets, including enzymes involved in proteolysis, DNA and RNA metabolism, protein synthesis, and isoprenoid metabolism. Other targets discussed are transporters, Plasmodium falciparum acetyl-coenzyme A synthetase, N-myristoyltransferase, and the cyclic guanosine monophosphate-dependent protein kinase G. We have outlined mechanistic details, where these are understood, underpinning the biological roles and hence druggability of such targets. We believe that having a clear understanding of the underlying chemical interactions is valuable to medicinal chemists in their quest to design appropriate inhibitors.
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Affiliation(s)
- Peter Mubanga Cheuka
- Department of Chemistry, School of Natural Sciences, University of Zambia, P.O. Box 32379, Lusaka 10101, Zambia
| | - Paul Njaria
- Department of Pharmacognosy and Pharmaceutical Chemistry, Kenyatta University, P.O. Box 14548-00400, Nairobi 00100, Kenya
| | - Godfrey Mayoka
- Department of Pharmacology and Pharmacognosy, School of Pharmacy, Jomo Kenyatta University of Agriculture and Technology, P.O. Box 62000-00200, Nairobi 00100, Kenya
| | - Evelyn Funjika
- Department of Chemistry, School of Natural Sciences, University of Zambia, P.O. Box 32379, Lusaka 10101, Zambia
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2
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Jung D, Bachmann HS. Regulation of protein prenylation. Biomed Pharmacother 2023; 164:114915. [PMID: 37236024 DOI: 10.1016/j.biopha.2023.114915] [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: 03/27/2023] [Revised: 05/17/2023] [Accepted: 05/18/2023] [Indexed: 05/28/2023] Open
Abstract
Prenyltransferases (PTases) are known to play a role in embryonic development, normal tissue homeostasis and cancer by posttranslationally modifying proteins involved in these processes. They are being discussed as potential drug targets in an increasing number of diseases, ranging from Alzheimer's disease to malaria. Protein prenylation and the development of specific PTase inhibitors (PTIs) have been subject to intense research in recent decades. Recently, the FDA approved lonafarnib, a specific farnesyltransferase inhibitor that acts directly on protein prenylation; and bempedoic acid, an ATP citrate lyase inhibitor that might alter intracellular isoprenoid composition, the relative concentrations of which can exert a decisive influence on protein prenylation. Both drugs represent the first approved agent in their respective substance class. Furthermore, an overwhelming number of processes and proteins that regulate protein prenylation have been identified over the years, many of which have been proposed as molecular targets for pharmacotherapy in their own right. However, certain aspects of protein prenylation, such as the regulation of PTase gene expression or the modulation of PTase activity by phosphorylation, have attracted less attention, despite their reported influence on tumor cell proliferation. Here, we want to summarize the advances regarding our understanding of the regulation of protein prenylation and the potential implications for drug development. Additionally, we want to suggest new lines of investigation that encompass the search for regulatory elements for PTases, especially at the genetic and epigenetic levels.
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Affiliation(s)
- Dominik Jung
- Institute of Pharmacology and Toxicology, Center for Biomedical Education and Research (ZBAF), School of Medicine, Faculty of Health, Witten/Herdecke University, Witten, Germany
| | - Hagen S Bachmann
- Institute of Pharmacology and Toxicology, Center for Biomedical Education and Research (ZBAF), School of Medicine, Faculty of Health, Witten/Herdecke University, Witten, Germany.
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3
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Rivara-Espasandín M, Palumbo MC, Sosa EJ, Radío S, Turjanski AG, Sotelo-Silveira J, Fernandez Do Porto D, Smircich P. Omics data integration facilitates target selection for new antiparasitic drugs against TriTryp infections. Front Pharmacol 2023; 14:1136321. [PMID: 37089958 PMCID: PMC10115950 DOI: 10.3389/fphar.2023.1136321] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/02/2023] [Accepted: 03/28/2023] [Indexed: 04/09/2023] Open
Abstract
Introduction:Trypanosoma cruzi, Trypanosoma brucei, and Leishmania spp., commonly referred to as TriTryps, are a group of protozoan parasites that cause important human diseases affecting millions of people belonging to the most vulnerable populations worldwide. Current treatments have limited efficiencies and can cause serious side effects, so there is an urgent need to develop new control strategies. Presently, the identification and prioritization of appropriate targets can be aided by integrative genomic and computational approaches.Methods: In this work, we conducted a genome-wide multidimensional data integration strategy to prioritize drug targets. We included genomic, transcriptomic, metabolic, and protein structural data sources, to delineate candidate proteins with relevant features for target selection in drug development.Results and Discussion: Our final ranked list includes proteins shared by TriTryps and covers a range of biological functions including essential proteins for parasite survival or growth, oxidative stress-related enzymes, virulence factors, and proteins that are exclusive to these parasites. Our strategy found previously described candidates, which validates our approach as well as new proteins that can be attractive targets to consider during the initial steps of drug discovery.
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Affiliation(s)
- Martin Rivara-Espasandín
- Departamento de Genómica, Instituto de Investigaciones Biológicas Clemente Estable, Montevideo, Uruguay
- Departamento de Genética, Facultad de Medicina, Universidad de la República, Montevideo, Uruguay
| | - Miranda Clara Palumbo
- Instituto de Cálculo, Facultad de Ciencias Exactas y Naturales, Universidad de Buenos Aires, Buenos Aires, Argentina
- Departamento de Química Biológica, Facultad de Ciencias Exactas y Naturales, Universidad de Buenos Aires, Buenos Aires, Argentina
| | - Ezequiel J. Sosa
- Departamento de Química Biológica, Facultad de Ciencias Exactas y Naturales, Universidad de Buenos Aires, Buenos Aires, Argentina
- Instituto de Química Biológica de la Facultad de Ciencias Exactas y Naturales (IQUIBICEN) CONICET, Ciudad Universitaria, Buenos Aires, Argentina
| | - Santiago Radío
- Departamento de Genómica, Instituto de Investigaciones Biológicas Clemente Estable, Montevideo, Uruguay
| | - Adrián G. Turjanski
- Departamento de Química Biológica, Facultad de Ciencias Exactas y Naturales, Universidad de Buenos Aires, Buenos Aires, Argentina
- Instituto de Química Biológica de la Facultad de Ciencias Exactas y Naturales (IQUIBICEN) CONICET, Ciudad Universitaria, Buenos Aires, Argentina
| | - José Sotelo-Silveira
- Departamento de Genómica, Instituto de Investigaciones Biológicas Clemente Estable, Montevideo, Uruguay
- Facultad de Ciencias, Universidad de la República, Montevideo, Uruguay
| | - Dario Fernandez Do Porto
- Instituto de Cálculo, Facultad de Ciencias Exactas y Naturales, Universidad de Buenos Aires, Buenos Aires, Argentina
- Departamento de Química Biológica, Facultad de Ciencias Exactas y Naturales, Universidad de Buenos Aires, Buenos Aires, Argentina
- *Correspondence: Dario Fernandez Do Porto, ; Pablo Smircich,
| | - Pablo Smircich
- Departamento de Genómica, Instituto de Investigaciones Biológicas Clemente Estable, Montevideo, Uruguay
- Facultad de Ciencias, Universidad de la República, Montevideo, Uruguay
- *Correspondence: Dario Fernandez Do Porto, ; Pablo Smircich,
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Verhasselt H, Stelmach P, Domin M, Jung D, Hagemann A, Manthey I, Bachmann HS. Characterization of the promoter of the human farnesyltransferase beta subunit and the impact of the transcription factor OCT-1 on its expression. Genomics 2022; 114:110314. [DOI: 10.1016/j.ygeno.2022.110314] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/09/2020] [Revised: 12/14/2021] [Accepted: 02/09/2022] [Indexed: 11/24/2022]
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5
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Mourot L, Schmitt M, Mouray E, Spichty M, Florent I, Albrecht S. Structure-activity relationship and molecular modelling studies of quinazolinedione derivatives MMV665916 as potential antimalarial agent. Bioorg Med Chem 2021; 51:116513. [PMID: 34798379 DOI: 10.1016/j.bmc.2021.116513] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/23/2021] [Revised: 10/11/2021] [Accepted: 10/17/2021] [Indexed: 10/19/2022]
Abstract
A series of new quinazolinedione derivatives have been readily synthesized and evaluated for their in vitro antiplasmodial growth inhibition activity. Most of the compounds inhibited P. falciparum FcB1 strain in the low to medium micromolar concentration. The 2-ethoxy 8ag', 2-trifluoromethoxy 8ai' and 4-fluoro-2-methoxy 8ak' showed the best inhibitory activity with EC50 values around 5 µM and were non-toxic to the primary human fibroblast cell line AB943. However, these compounds were less potent than the original hit MMV665916, which showed remarkable growth inhibition with EC50 value of 0.4 µM and presented the highest selectivity index (SI > 250). In addition, a novel approach for determining the docking poses of these quinazolinedione derivatives with their potential protein target, the P. falciparum farnesyltransferase PfFT, was investigated.
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Affiliation(s)
- Laura Mourot
- Université de Haute-Alsace, Université de Strasbourg, CNRS, LIMA UMR 7042, F-68000 Mulhouse, France
| | - Marjorie Schmitt
- Université de Haute-Alsace, Université de Strasbourg, CNRS, LIMA UMR 7042, F-68000 Mulhouse, France
| | - Elisabeth Mouray
- Unité Molécules de Communication et Adaptation des Micro-organismes, UMR7245, Muséum National d'Histoire Naturelle, CNRS, Sorbonne Universités, Paris, France
| | - Martin Spichty
- Université de Haute-Alsace, Université de Strasbourg, CNRS, LIMA UMR 7042, F-68000 Mulhouse, France
| | - Isabelle Florent
- Unité Molécules de Communication et Adaptation des Micro-organismes, UMR7245, Muséum National d'Histoire Naturelle, CNRS, Sorbonne Universités, Paris, France
| | - Sébastien Albrecht
- Université de Haute-Alsace, Université de Strasbourg, CNRS, LIMA UMR 7042, F-68000 Mulhouse, France.
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6
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Pandey M, Huang Y, Lim TK, Lin Q, He CY. Flagellar targeting of an arginine kinase requires a conserved lipidated protein intraflagellar transport (LIFT) pathway in Trypanosoma brucei. J Biol Chem 2020; 295:11326-11336. [PMID: 32587088 DOI: 10.1074/jbc.ra120.014287] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/08/2020] [Revised: 06/18/2020] [Indexed: 12/31/2022] Open
Abstract
Both intraflagellar transport (IFT) and lipidated protein intraflagellar transport (LIFT) pathways are essential for cilia/flagella biogenesis, motility, and sensory functions. In the LIFT pathway, lipidated cargoes are transported into the cilia through the coordinated actions of cargo carrier proteins such as Unc119 or PDE6δ, as well as small GTPases Arl13b and Arl3 in the cilium. Our previous studies have revealed a single Arl13b ortholog in the evolutionarily divergent Trypanosoma brucei, the causative agent of African sleeping sickness. TbArl13 catalyzes two TbArl3 homologs, TbArl3A and TbArl3C, suggesting the presence of a conserved LIFT pathway in these protozoan parasites. Only a single homolog to the cargo carrier protein Unc119 has been identified in T. brucei genome, but its function in lipidated protein transport has not been characterized. In this study, we exploited the proximity-based biotinylation approach to identify binding partners of TbUnc119. We showed that TbUnc119 binds to a flagellar arginine kinase TbAK3 in a myristoylation-dependent manner and is responsible for its targeting to and enrichment in the flagellum. Interestingly, only TbArl3A, but not TbArl3C interacted with TbUnc119 in a GTP-dependent manner, suggesting functional specialization of Arl3-GTPases in T. brucei These results establish the function of TbUnc119 as a myristoylated cargo carrier and support the presence of a conserved LIFT pathway in T. brucei.
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Affiliation(s)
- Maneesha Pandey
- Department of Biological Sciences, National University of Singapore, Singapore
| | - Yameng Huang
- Department of Biological Sciences, National University of Singapore, Singapore
| | - Teck Kwang Lim
- Department of Biological Sciences, National University of Singapore, Singapore
| | - Qingsong Lin
- Department of Biological Sciences, National University of Singapore, Singapore
| | - Cynthia Y He
- Department of Biological Sciences, National University of Singapore, Singapore
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7
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Aguiar AC, de Sousa LR, Garcia CR, Oliva G, Guido RV. New Molecular Targets and Strategies for Antimalarial Discovery. Curr Med Chem 2019; 26:4380-4402. [DOI: 10.2174/0929867324666170830103003] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/05/2017] [Revised: 07/24/2017] [Accepted: 07/24/2017] [Indexed: 02/07/2023]
Abstract
Malaria remains a major health problem, especially because of the emergence
of resistant P. falciparum strains to artemisinin derivatives. In this context, safe and affordable
antimalarial drugs are desperately needed. New proteins have been investigated
as molecular targets for research and development of innovative compounds with welldefined
mechanism of action. In this review, we highlight genetically and clinically validated
plasmodial proteins as drug targets for the next generation of therapeutics. The enzymes
described herein are involved in hemoglobin hydrolysis, the invasion process,
elongation factors for protein synthesis, pyrimidine biosynthesis, post-translational modifications
such as prenylation, phosphorylation and histone acetylation, generation of ATP
in mitochondrial metabolism and aminoacylation of RNAs. Significant advances on proteomics,
genetics, structural biology, computational and biophysical methods provided
invaluable molecular and structural information about these drug targets. Based on this,
several strategies and models have been applied to identify and improve lead compounds.
This review presents the recent progresses in the discovery of antimalarial drug candidates,
highlighting the approaches, challenges, and perspectives to deliver affordable, safe
and low single-dose medicines to treat malaria.
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Affiliation(s)
- Anna Caroline Aguiar
- Sao Carlos Institute of Physics, University of Sao Paulo, PO Box 369, 13560-970, Sao Carlos, SP, Brazil
| | - Lorena R.F. de Sousa
- Sao Carlos Institute of Physics, University of Sao Paulo, PO Box 369, 13560-970, Sao Carlos, SP, Brazil
| | - Celia R.S. Garcia
- Physiology Department, Bioscience Institute, University of Sao Paulo, Sao Paulo, SP, Brazil
| | - Glaucius Oliva
- Sao Carlos Institute of Physics, University of Sao Paulo, PO Box 369, 13560-970, Sao Carlos, SP, Brazil
| | - Rafael V.C. Guido
- Sao Carlos Institute of Physics, University of Sao Paulo, PO Box 369, 13560-970, Sao Carlos, SP, Brazil
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8
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Chen AY, Adamek RN, Dick BL, Credille CV, Morrison CN, Cohen SM. Targeting Metalloenzymes for Therapeutic Intervention. Chem Rev 2019; 119:1323-1455. [PMID: 30192523 PMCID: PMC6405328 DOI: 10.1021/acs.chemrev.8b00201] [Citation(s) in RCA: 161] [Impact Index Per Article: 32.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 02/06/2023]
Abstract
Metalloenzymes are central to a wide range of essential biological activities, including nucleic acid modification, protein degradation, and many others. The role of metalloenzymes in these processes also makes them central for the progression of many diseases and, as such, makes metalloenzymes attractive targets for therapeutic intervention. Increasing awareness of the role metalloenzymes play in disease and their importance as a class of targets has amplified interest in the development of new strategies to develop inhibitors and ultimately useful drugs. In this Review, we provide a broad overview of several drug discovery efforts focused on metalloenzymes and attempt to map out the current landscape of high-value metalloenzyme targets.
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Affiliation(s)
- Allie Y Chen
- Department of Chemistry and Biochemistry , University of California, San Diego , La Jolla , California 92093 , United States
| | - Rebecca N Adamek
- Department of Chemistry and Biochemistry , University of California, San Diego , La Jolla , California 92093 , United States
| | - Benjamin L Dick
- Department of Chemistry and Biochemistry , University of California, San Diego , La Jolla , California 92093 , United States
| | - Cy V Credille
- Department of Chemistry and Biochemistry , University of California, San Diego , La Jolla , California 92093 , United States
| | - Christine N Morrison
- Department of Chemistry and Biochemistry , University of California, San Diego , La Jolla , California 92093 , United States
| | - Seth M Cohen
- Department of Chemistry and Biochemistry , University of California, San Diego , La Jolla , California 92093 , United States
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9
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Mäder P, Rennar GA, Ventura AMP, Grevelding CG, Schlitzer M. Chemotherapy for Fighting Schistosomiasis: Past, Present and Future. ChemMedChem 2018; 13:2374-2389. [DOI: 10.1002/cmdc.201800572] [Citation(s) in RCA: 24] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/24/2018] [Indexed: 01/22/2023]
Affiliation(s)
- Patrick Mäder
- Department of Pharmaceutical Chemistry; Philipps-Universität Marburg; Marbacher Weg 6 35032 Marburg Germany
| | - Georg A. Rennar
- Department of Pharmaceutical Chemistry; Philipps-Universität Marburg; Marbacher Weg 6 35032 Marburg Germany
| | - Alejandra M. Peter Ventura
- Department of Pharmaceutical Chemistry; Philipps-Universität Marburg; Marbacher Weg 6 35032 Marburg Germany
| | - Christoph G. Grevelding
- Institute of Parasitology, BFS; Justus-Liebig-Universität Gießen; Schubertstraße 81 35392 Gießen Germany
| | - Martin Schlitzer
- Department of Pharmaceutical Chemistry; Philipps-Universität Marburg; Marbacher Weg 6 35032 Marburg Germany
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10
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Luth MR, Gupta P, Ottilie S, Winzeler EA. Using in Vitro Evolution and Whole Genome Analysis To Discover Next Generation Targets for Antimalarial Drug Discovery. ACS Infect Dis 2018; 4:301-314. [PMID: 29451780 PMCID: PMC5848146 DOI: 10.1021/acsinfecdis.7b00276] [Citation(s) in RCA: 58] [Impact Index Per Article: 9.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/27/2022]
Abstract
![]()
Although
many new anti-infectives have been discovered and developed solely
using phenotypic cellular screening and assay optimization, most researchers
recognize that structure-guided drug design is more practical and
less costly. In addition, a greater chemical space can be interrogated
with structure-guided drug design. The practicality of structure-guided
drug design has launched a search for the targets of compounds discovered
in phenotypic screens. One method that has been used extensively in
malaria parasites for target discovery and chemical validation is in vitro evolution and whole genome analysis (IVIEWGA).
Here, small molecules from phenotypic screens with demonstrated antiparasitic
activity are used in genome-based target discovery methods. In this
Review, we discuss the newest, most promising druggable targets discovered
or further validated by evolution-based methods, as well as some exceptions.
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Affiliation(s)
- Madeline R. Luth
- Division of Host Pathogen Systems and Therapeutics, Department of Pediatrics, University of California San Diego, 9500 Gilman Drive, La Jolla, California 92093, United States
| | - Purva Gupta
- Division of Host Pathogen Systems and Therapeutics, Department of Pediatrics, University of California San Diego, 9500 Gilman Drive, La Jolla, California 92093, United States
| | - Sabine Ottilie
- Division of Host Pathogen Systems and Therapeutics, Department of Pediatrics, University of California San Diego, 9500 Gilman Drive, La Jolla, California 92093, United States
| | - Elizabeth A. Winzeler
- Division of Host Pathogen Systems and Therapeutics, Department of Pediatrics, University of California San Diego, 9500 Gilman Drive, La Jolla, California 92093, United States
- Skaggs School of Pharmaceutical Sciences, University of California San Diego, 9500 Gilman Drive, La Jolla, California 92093, United States
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11
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Diaz-Rodriguez V, Hsu ET, Ganusova E, Werst ER, Becker JM, Hrycyna CA, Distefano MD. a-Factor Analogues Containing Alkyne- and Azide-Functionalized Isoprenoids Are Efficiently Enzymatically Processed and Retain Wild-Type Bioactivity. Bioconjug Chem 2017; 29:316-323. [PMID: 29188996 PMCID: PMC5824361 DOI: 10.1021/acs.bioconjchem.7b00648] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/21/2022]
Abstract
![]()
Protein
prenylation is a post-translational modification that involves
the addition of one or two isoprenoid groups to the C-terminus of
selected proteins using either farnesyl diphosphate or geranylgeranyl
diphosphate. Three crucial enzymatic steps are involved in the processing
of prenylated proteins to yield the final mature product. The farnesylated
dodecapeptide, a-factor, is particularly useful for studies
of protein prenylation because it requires the identical three-step
process to generate the same C-terminal farnesylated cysteine methyl
ester substructure present in larger farnesylated proteins. Recently,
several groups have developed isoprenoid analogs bearing azide and
alkyne groups that can be used in metabolic labeling experiments.
Those compounds have proven useful for profiling prenylated proteins
and also show great promise as tools to study how the levels of prenylated
proteins vary in different disease models. Herein, we describe the
preparation and use of prenylated a-factor analogs, and
precursor peptides, to investigate two key questions. First, a-factor analogues containing modified isoprenoids were prepared
to evaluate whether the non-natural lipid group interferes with the
biological activity of the a-factor. Second, a-factor-derived precursor peptides were synthesized to evaluate whether
they can be efficiently processed by the yeast proteases Rce1 and
Ste24 as well as the yeast methyltransferase Ste14 to yield mature a-factor analogues. Taken together, the results reported here
indicate that metabolic labeling experiments with azide- and alkyne-functionalized
isoprenoids can yield prenylated products that are fully processed
and biologically functional. Overall, these observations suggest that
the isoprenoids studied here that incorporate bio-orthogonal functionality
can be used in metabolic labeling experiments without concern that
they will induce undesired physiological changes that may complicate
data interpretation.
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Affiliation(s)
- Veronica Diaz-Rodriguez
- Department of Chemistry, University of Minnesota , 207 Pleasant Street SE, Minneapolis, Minnesota 55455, United States
| | - Erh-Ting Hsu
- Department of Chemistry, Purdue University , 560 Oval Drive, West Lafayette, Indiana 47907, United States
| | - Elena Ganusova
- Department of Microbiology, University of Tennessee , Circle Park Drive, Knoxville, Tennessee 37996, United States
| | - Elena R Werst
- Department of Chemistry, University of Minnesota , 207 Pleasant Street SE, Minneapolis, Minnesota 55455, United States
| | - Jeffrey M Becker
- Department of Microbiology, University of Tennessee , Circle Park Drive, Knoxville, Tennessee 37996, United States
| | - Christine A Hrycyna
- Department of Chemistry, Purdue University , 560 Oval Drive, West Lafayette, Indiana 47907, United States
| | - Mark D Distefano
- Department of Chemistry, University of Minnesota , 207 Pleasant Street SE, Minneapolis, Minnesota 55455, United States
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Cadelis MM, Bourguet-Kondracki ML, Dubois J, Kaiser M, Brunel JM, Barker D, Copp BR. Structure-activity relationship studies on thiaplidiaquinones A and B as novel inhibitors of Plasmodium falciparum and farnesyltransferase. Bioorg Med Chem 2017; 25:4433-4443. [DOI: 10.1016/j.bmc.2017.06.029] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/10/2017] [Revised: 06/15/2017] [Accepted: 06/16/2017] [Indexed: 10/19/2022]
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13
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Brioschi M, Martinez Fernandez A, Banfi C. Exploring the biochemistry of the prenylome and its role in disease through proteomics: progress and potential. Expert Rev Proteomics 2017; 14:515-528. [PMID: 28521569 DOI: 10.1080/14789450.2017.1332998] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/18/2022]
Abstract
INTRODUCTION Protein prenylation is a ubiquitous covalent post-translational modification characterized by the addition of farnesyl or geranylgeranyl isoprenoid groups to a cysteine residue located near the carboxyl terminal of a protein. It is essential for the proper localization and cellular activity of numerous proteins, including Ras family GTPases and G-proteins. In addition to its roles in cellular physiology, the prenylation process has important implications in human diseases and in the recent years, it has become attractive target of inhibitors with therapeutic potential. Areas covered: This review attempts to summarize the basic aspects of prenylation integrating them with biological functions in diseases and giving an account of the current status of prenylation inhibitors as potential therapeutics. We also summarize the methodologies for the characterization of this modification. Expert commentary: The growing body of evidence suggesting an important role of prenylation in diseases and the subsequent development of inhibitors of the enzymes responsible for this modification lead to the urgent need to identify the full spectrum of prenylated proteins that are altered in the disease or affected by drugs. Proteomic tools to analyze prenylated proteins are recently emerging, thanks to the advancement in the field of mass spectrometry coupled to enrichment strategies.
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Audagnotto M, Dal Peraro M. Protein post-translational modifications: In silico prediction tools and molecular modeling. Comput Struct Biotechnol J 2017; 15:307-319. [PMID: 28458782 PMCID: PMC5397102 DOI: 10.1016/j.csbj.2017.03.004] [Citation(s) in RCA: 109] [Impact Index Per Article: 15.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/04/2016] [Revised: 03/17/2017] [Accepted: 03/21/2017] [Indexed: 02/09/2023] Open
Abstract
Post-translational modifications (PTMs) occur in almost all proteins and play an important role in numerous biological processes by significantly affecting proteins' structure and dynamics. Several computational approaches have been developed to study PTMs (e.g., phosphorylation, sumoylation or palmitoylation) showing the importance of these techniques in predicting modified sites that can be further investigated with experimental approaches. In this review, we summarize some of the available online platforms and their contribution in the study of PTMs. Moreover, we discuss the emerging capabilities of molecular modeling and simulation that are able to complement these bioinformatics methods, providing deeper molecular insights into the biological function of post-translational modified proteins.
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Affiliation(s)
- Martina Audagnotto
- Institute of Bioengineering, School of Life Sciences, École Polytechnique Fédérale de Lausanne (EPFL), Lausanne, Switzerland
| | - Matteo Dal Peraro
- Institute of Bioengineering, School of Life Sciences, École Polytechnique Fédérale de Lausanne (EPFL), Lausanne, Switzerland
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15
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Ashano E, Isewon I, Oyelade J, Adebiyi E. Cluster analysis of Plasmodium RNA-seq time-course data identifies stage-specific co-regulated biological processes and regulatory elements. F1000Res 2016; 5. [PMID: 27990252 PMCID: PMC5155496 DOI: 10.12688/f1000research.9093.1] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 07/29/2016] [Indexed: 12/26/2022] Open
Abstract
In this study, we interpreted RNA-seq time-course data of three developmental stages of Plasmodium species by clustering genes based on similarities in their expression profile without prior knowledge of the gene function. Functional enrichment of clusters of upregulated genes at specific time-points reveals potential targetable biological processes with information on their timings. We identified common consensus sequences that these clusters shared as potential points of coordinated transcriptional control. Five cluster groups showed upregulated profile patterns of biological interest. This included two clusters from the Intraerythrocytic Developmental Cycle (cluster 4 = 16 genes, and cluster 9 = 32 genes), one from the sexual development stage (cluster 2 = 851 genes), and two from the gamete-fertilization stage in the mosquito host (cluster 4 = 153 genes, and cluster 9 = 258 genes). The IDC expressed the least numbers of genes with only 1448 genes showing any significant activity of the 5020 genes (~29%) in the experiment. Gene ontology (GO) enrichment analysis of these clusters revealed a total of 671 uncharacterized genes implicated in 14 biological processes and components associated with these stages, some of which are currently being investigated as drug targets in on-going research. Five putative transcription regulatory binding motifs shared by members of each cluster were also identified, one of which was also identified in a previous study by separate researchers. Our study shows stage-specific genes and biological processes that may be important in antimalarial drug research efforts. In addition, timed-coordinated control of separate processes may explain the paucity of factors in parasites.
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Affiliation(s)
- Efejiro Ashano
- Covenant University Bioinformatics Research (CUBRe), Covenant University, Ota, Ogun State, 110001, Nigeria
| | - Itunuoluwa Isewon
- Covenant University Bioinformatics Research (CUBRe), Covenant University, Ota, Ogun State, 110001, Nigeria.,Department of Computer and Information Sciences, Covenant University, Ota, Ogun State, 110001, Nigeria
| | - Jelili Oyelade
- Covenant University Bioinformatics Research (CUBRe), Covenant University, Ota, Ogun State, 110001, Nigeria.,Department of Computer and Information Sciences, Covenant University, Ota, Ogun State, 110001, Nigeria
| | - Ezekiel Adebiyi
- Covenant University Bioinformatics Research (CUBRe), Covenant University, Ota, Ogun State, 110001, Nigeria.,Department of Computer and Information Sciences, Covenant University, Ota, Ogun State, 110001, Nigeria.,Division of Applied Bioinformatics, German Cancer Research Center (DKFZ), Heidelberg,, 69120, Germany
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16
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Suazo KF, Schaber C, Palsuledesai CC, Odom John AR, Distefano MD. Global proteomic analysis of prenylated proteins in Plasmodium falciparum using an alkyne-modified isoprenoid analogue. Sci Rep 2016; 6:38615. [PMID: 27924931 PMCID: PMC5141570 DOI: 10.1038/srep38615] [Citation(s) in RCA: 56] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/28/2016] [Accepted: 11/09/2016] [Indexed: 01/28/2023] Open
Abstract
Severe malaria due to Plasmodium falciparum infection remains a serious threat to health worldwide and new therapeutic targets are highly desirable. Small molecule inhibitors of prenyl transferases, enzymes that catalyze the post-translational isoprenyl modifications of proteins, exhibit potent antimalarial activity. The antimalarial actions of prenyltransferase inhibitors indicate that protein prenylation is required for malaria parasite development. In this study, we used a chemical biology strategy to experimentally characterize the entire complement of prenylated proteins in the human malaria parasite. In contrast to the expansive mammalian and fungal prenylomes, we find that P. falciparum possesses a restricted set of prenylated proteins. The prenylome of P. falciparum is dominated by Rab GTPases, in addition to a small number of prenylated proteins that also appear to function primarily in membrane trafficking. Overall, we found robust experimental evidence for a total of only thirteen prenylated proteins in P. falciparum, with suggestive evidence for an additional two probable prenyltransferase substrates. Our work contributes to an increasingly complete picture of essential, post-translational hydrophobic modifications in blood-stage P. falciparum.
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Affiliation(s)
- Kiall F Suazo
- Department of Chemistry, University of Minnesota, Minneapolis, MN 55455 USA
| | - Chad Schaber
- Departments of Pediatrics and of Molecular Microbiology, Washington University School of Medicine, St. Louis, MO 63110 USA
| | | | - Audrey R Odom John
- Departments of Pediatrics and of Molecular Microbiology, Washington University School of Medicine, St. Louis, MO 63110 USA
| | - Mark D Distefano
- Department of Chemistry, University of Minnesota, Minneapolis, MN 55455 USA
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17
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Cadelis MM, Bourguet-Kondracki ML, Dubois J, Valentin A, Barker D, Copp BR. Discovery and preliminary structure-activity relationship studies on tecomaquinone I and tectol as novel farnesyltransferase and plasmodial inhibitors. Bioorg Med Chem 2016; 24:3102-7. [PMID: 27240468 DOI: 10.1016/j.bmc.2016.05.024] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/21/2016] [Revised: 05/11/2016] [Accepted: 05/16/2016] [Indexed: 11/18/2022]
Abstract
Biological screening of a library of synthesized benzo[c]chromene-7,10-dione natural products against human farnesyltransferase (FTase) has identified tecomaquinone I (IC50 of 0.065±0.004μM) as being one of the more potent natural product inhibitors identified to date. Anti-plasmodial screening of the same library against a drug-resistant strain of Plasmodium falciparum identified the structurally-related dichromenol tectol as a moderately active growth inhibitor with an IC50 3.44±0.20μM. Two novel series of analogues, based on the benzo[c]chromene-7,10-dione scaffold, were subsequently synthesized, with one analogue exhibiting farnesyltransferase inhibitory activity in the low micromolar range. A preliminary structure-activity relationship (SAR) study has identified different structural requirements for anti-malarial activity in comparison to FTase activities for these classes of natural products. Our results identify tecomaquinone I as a novel scaffold from which more potent inhibitors of human and parasitic FTase could be developed.
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Affiliation(s)
- Melissa M Cadelis
- School of Chemical Sciences, The University of Auckland, Private Bag 92019, Auckland 1142, New Zealand
| | - Marie-Lise Bourguet-Kondracki
- Laboratoire Molécules de Communication et Adaptation des Micro-organismes, UMR 7245 CNRS, Muséum National d'Histoire Naturelle, 57 rue Cuvier (C.P. 54), 75005 Paris, France
| | - Joëlle Dubois
- Institut de Chimie des Substances Naturelles, CNRS UPR 2301, Centre de Recherche de Gif, Avenue de la Terrasse, 91198 Gif sur Yvette Cedex, France
| | - Alexis Valentin
- Université de Toulouse, PHARMA-DEV, UMR 152 IRD-UPS, UPS, 118 Route de Narbonne, F-31062 Toulouse Cedex 9, France
| | - David Barker
- School of Chemical Sciences, The University of Auckland, Private Bag 92019, Auckland 1142, New Zealand
| | - Brent R Copp
- School of Chemical Sciences, The University of Auckland, Private Bag 92019, Auckland 1142, New Zealand.
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18
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All about that fat: Lipid modification of proteins in Cryptococcus neoformans. J Microbiol 2016; 54:212-22. [PMID: 26920881 DOI: 10.1007/s12275-016-5626-6] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/21/2015] [Revised: 02/01/2016] [Accepted: 02/01/2016] [Indexed: 12/17/2022]
Abstract
Lipid modification of proteins is a widespread, essential process whereby fatty acids, cholesterol, isoprenoids, phospholipids, or glycosylphospholipids are attached to polypeptides. These hydrophobic groups may affect protein structure, function, localization, and/or stability; as a consequence such modifications play critical regulatory roles in cellular systems. Recent advances in chemical biology and proteomics have allowed the profiling of modified proteins, enabling dissection of the functional consequences of lipid addition. The enzymes that mediate lipid modification are specific for both the lipid and protein substrates, and are conserved from fungi to humans. In this article we review these enzymes, their substrates, and the processes involved in eukaryotic lipid modification of proteins. We further focus on its occurrence in the fungal pathogen Cryptococcus neoformans, highlighting unique features that are both relevant for the biology of the organism and potentially important in the search for new therapies.
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19
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Blondel S, Egesipe AL, Picardi P, Jaskowiak AL, Notarnicola M, Ragot J, Tournois J, Le Corf A, Brinon B, Poydenot P, Georges P, Navarro C, Pitrez PR, Ferreira L, Bollot G, Bauvais C, Laustriat D, Mejat A, De Sandre-Giovannoli A, Levy N, Bifulco M, Peschanski M, Nissan X. Drug screening on Hutchinson Gilford progeria pluripotent stem cells reveals aminopyrimidines as new modulators of farnesylation. Cell Death Dis 2016; 7:e2105. [PMID: 26890144 PMCID: PMC5399184 DOI: 10.1038/cddis.2015.374] [Citation(s) in RCA: 40] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/16/2015] [Revised: 11/19/2015] [Accepted: 11/20/2015] [Indexed: 11/09/2022]
Abstract
Hutchinson-Gilford progeria syndrome (HGPS) is a rare genetic disorder characterized by a dramatic appearance of premature aging. HGPS is due to a single-base substitution in exon 11 of the LMNA gene (c.1824C>T) leading to the production of a toxic form of the prelamin A protein called progerin. Because farnesylation process had been shown to control progerin toxicity, in this study we have developed a screening method permitting to identify new pharmacological inhibitors of farnesylation. For this, we have used the unique potential of pluripotent stem cells to have access to an unlimited and relevant biological resource and test 21,608 small molecules. This study identified several compounds, called monoaminopyrimidines, which target two key enzymes of the farnesylation process, farnesyl pyrophosphate synthase and farnesyl transferase, and rescue in vitro phenotypes associated with HGPS. Our results opens up new therapeutic possibilities for the treatment of HGPS by identifying a new family of protein farnesylation inhibitors, and which may also be applicable to cancers and diseases associated with mutations that involve farnesylated proteins.
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Affiliation(s)
- S Blondel
- INSERM U861, I-STEM, AFM, Institute for Stem Cell Therapy and Exploration of Monogenic Diseases, 5 rue Henri Desbruères, Evry Cedex 91030, France.,UEVE, I-STEM, AFM, Institute for Stem Cell Therapy and Exploration of Monogenic Diseases, 5 rue Henri Desbruères, Evry Cedex 91030, France
| | - A-L Egesipe
- CECS, I-STEM, AFM, Institute for Stem Cell Therapy and Exploration of Monogenic Diseases, 5 rue Henri Desbruères, Evry Cedex 91030, France
| | - P Picardi
- Department of Medicine and Surgery, University of Salerno, Via Allende, Baronissi Salerno 84081, Italy
| | - A-L Jaskowiak
- CECS, I-STEM, AFM, Institute for Stem Cell Therapy and Exploration of Monogenic Diseases, 5 rue Henri Desbruères, Evry Cedex 91030, France
| | - M Notarnicola
- Laboratory of Nutritional Biochemistry, National Institute for Digestive Diseases "S. de Bellis", Castellana Grotte, Bari 70013, Italy
| | - J Ragot
- INSERM U861, I-STEM, AFM, Institute for Stem Cell Therapy and Exploration of Monogenic Diseases, 5 rue Henri Desbruères, Evry Cedex 91030, France.,UEVE, I-STEM, AFM, Institute for Stem Cell Therapy and Exploration of Monogenic Diseases, 5 rue Henri Desbruères, Evry Cedex 91030, France
| | - J Tournois
- CECS, I-STEM, AFM, Institute for Stem Cell Therapy and Exploration of Monogenic Diseases, 5 rue Henri Desbruères, Evry Cedex 91030, France
| | - A Le Corf
- INSERM U861, I-STEM, AFM, Institute for Stem Cell Therapy and Exploration of Monogenic Diseases, 5 rue Henri Desbruères, Evry Cedex 91030, France.,UEVE, I-STEM, AFM, Institute for Stem Cell Therapy and Exploration of Monogenic Diseases, 5 rue Henri Desbruères, Evry Cedex 91030, France
| | - B Brinon
- CECS, I-STEM, AFM, Institute for Stem Cell Therapy and Exploration of Monogenic Diseases, 5 rue Henri Desbruères, Evry Cedex 91030, France
| | - P Poydenot
- CECS, I-STEM, AFM, Institute for Stem Cell Therapy and Exploration of Monogenic Diseases, 5 rue Henri Desbruères, Evry Cedex 91030, France
| | - P Georges
- CECS, I-STEM, AFM, Institute for Stem Cell Therapy and Exploration of Monogenic Diseases, 5 rue Henri Desbruères, Evry Cedex 91030, France
| | - C Navarro
- Aix Marseille Université, UMR S 910: Génétique Médicale et Génomique Fonctionnelle, Faculté de Médecine Timone, Marseille, France.,INSERM, UMR S 910: Génétique Médicale et Génomique Fonctionnelle, Faculté de Médecine, Marseille, France
| | - P R Pitrez
- CNC-Center for Neurosciences and Cell Biology, University of Coimbra, Largo Marques de Pombal, Coimbra 3004-517, Portugal
| | - L Ferreira
- CNC-Center for Neurosciences and Cell Biology, University of Coimbra, Largo Marques de Pombal, Coimbra 3004-517, Portugal
| | - G Bollot
- SYNSIGHT, a/s IncubAlliance 86 rue de Paris Orsay 91400, France
| | - C Bauvais
- SYNSIGHT, a/s IncubAlliance 86 rue de Paris Orsay 91400, France
| | - D Laustriat
- CECS, I-STEM, AFM, Institute for Stem Cell Therapy and Exploration of Monogenic Diseases, 5 rue Henri Desbruères, Evry Cedex 91030, France
| | - A Mejat
- Ecole Normale Supérieure de Lyon, Laboratoire de Biologie Moléculaire de la Cellule, UMR 5239 CNRS/ENS Lyon/UCBL, 46 Allée d'Italie, Lyon, France
| | - A De Sandre-Giovannoli
- Aix Marseille Université, UMR S 910: Génétique Médicale et Génomique Fonctionnelle, Faculté de Médecine Timone, Marseille, France.,INSERM, UMR S 910: Génétique Médicale et Génomique Fonctionnelle, Faculté de Médecine, Marseille, France
| | - N Levy
- Aix Marseille Université, UMR S 910: Génétique Médicale et Génomique Fonctionnelle, Faculté de Médecine Timone, Marseille, France.,INSERM, UMR S 910: Génétique Médicale et Génomique Fonctionnelle, Faculté de Médecine, Marseille, France
| | - M Bifulco
- Department of Medicine and Surgery, University of Salerno, Via Allende, Baronissi Salerno 84081, Italy
| | - M Peschanski
- INSERM U861, I-STEM, AFM, Institute for Stem Cell Therapy and Exploration of Monogenic Diseases, 5 rue Henri Desbruères, Evry Cedex 91030, France.,UEVE, I-STEM, AFM, Institute for Stem Cell Therapy and Exploration of Monogenic Diseases, 5 rue Henri Desbruères, Evry Cedex 91030, France.,CECS, I-STEM, AFM, Institute for Stem Cell Therapy and Exploration of Monogenic Diseases, 5 rue Henri Desbruères, Evry Cedex 91030, France
| | - X Nissan
- INSERM U861, I-STEM, AFM, Institute for Stem Cell Therapy and Exploration of Monogenic Diseases, 5 rue Henri Desbruères, Evry Cedex 91030, France.,UEVE, I-STEM, AFM, Institute for Stem Cell Therapy and Exploration of Monogenic Diseases, 5 rue Henri Desbruères, Evry Cedex 91030, France.,CECS, I-STEM, AFM, Institute for Stem Cell Therapy and Exploration of Monogenic Diseases, 5 rue Henri Desbruères, Evry Cedex 91030, France
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20
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Highly improved antiparasitic activity after introduction of an N-benzylimidazole moiety on protein farnesyltransferase inhibitors. Eur J Med Chem 2016; 109:173-86. [DOI: 10.1016/j.ejmech.2015.12.045] [Citation(s) in RCA: 15] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/19/2015] [Revised: 12/22/2015] [Accepted: 12/23/2015] [Indexed: 11/19/2022]
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21
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22
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Holland AJ, Reis RM, Niessen S, Pereira C, Andres DA, Spielmann HP, Cleveland DW, Desai A, Gassmann R. Preventing farnesylation of the dynein adaptor Spindly contributes to the mitotic defects caused by farnesyltransferase inhibitors. Mol Biol Cell 2015; 26:1845-56. [PMID: 25808490 PMCID: PMC4436830 DOI: 10.1091/mbc.e14-11-1560] [Citation(s) in RCA: 38] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/24/2014] [Accepted: 03/19/2015] [Indexed: 01/01/2023] Open
Abstract
The kinetochore-specific dynein adaptor Spindly is identified as a novel substrate of farnesyltransferase in human cells. Farnesylation is required for Spindly accumulation at kinetochores, and nonfarnesylated Spindly delays chromosome congression, providing new mechanistic insight into the biological effect of farnesyltransferase inhibitors. The clinical interest in farnesyltransferase inhibitors (FTIs) makes it important to understand how these compounds affect cellular processes involving farnesylated proteins. Mitotic abnormalities observed after treatment with FTIs have so far been attributed to defects in the farnesylation of the outer kinetochore proteins CENP-E and CENP-F, which are involved in chromosome congression and spindle assembly checkpoint signaling. Here we identify the cytoplasmic dynein adaptor Spindly as an additional component of the outer kinetochore that is modified by farnesyltransferase (FTase). We show that farnesylation of Spindly is essential for its localization, and thus for the proper localization of dynein and its cofactor dynactin, to prometaphase kinetochores and that Spindly kinetochore recruitment is more severely affected by FTase inhibition than kinetochore recruitment of CENP-E and CENP-F. Molecular replacement experiments show that both Spindly and CENP-E farnesylation are required for efficient chromosome congression. The identification of Spindly as a new mitotic substrate of FTase provides insight into the causes of the mitotic phenotypes observed with FTase inhibitors.
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Affiliation(s)
- Andrew J Holland
- Ludwig Institute for Cancer Research/Department of Cellular and Molecular Medicine, University of California, San Diego, La Jolla, CA 92093
| | - Rita M Reis
- Instituto de Biologia Molecular e Celular, Universidade do Porto, Porto 4150-180, Portugal Instituto de Investigação e Inovação em Saúde-i3S, Universidade do Porto, Porto 4150-180, Portugal
| | - Sherry Niessen
- Skaggs Institute for Chemical Biology and Department of Chemical Physiology, Center for Physiological Proteomics, Scripps Research Institute, La Jolla, CA 92037
| | - Cláudia Pereira
- Instituto de Biologia Molecular e Celular, Universidade do Porto, Porto 4150-180, Portugal Instituto de Investigação e Inovação em Saúde-i3S, Universidade do Porto, Porto 4150-180, Portugal
| | - Douglas A Andres
- Department of Molecular and Cellular Biochemistry, Kentucky Center for Structural Biology, University of Kentucky, Lexington, KY 40536
| | - H Peter Spielmann
- Department of Molecular and Cellular Biochemistry, Kentucky Center for Structural Biology, University of Kentucky, Lexington, KY 40536 Department of Chemistry, Markey Cancer Center, Kentucky Center for Structural Biology, University of Kentucky, Lexington, KY 40536
| | - Don W Cleveland
- Ludwig Institute for Cancer Research/Department of Cellular and Molecular Medicine, University of California, San Diego, La Jolla, CA 92093
| | - Arshad Desai
- Ludwig Institute for Cancer Research/Department of Cellular and Molecular Medicine, University of California, San Diego, La Jolla, CA 92093
| | - Reto Gassmann
- Instituto de Biologia Molecular e Celular, Universidade do Porto, Porto 4150-180, Portugal Instituto de Investigação e Inovação em Saúde-i3S, Universidade do Porto, Porto 4150-180, Portugal
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23
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Flynn SC, Lindgren DE, Hougland JL. Quantitative determination of cellular farnesyltransferase activity: towards defining the minimum substrate reactivity for biologically relevant protein farnesylation. Chembiochem 2014; 15:2205-10. [PMID: 25182009 DOI: 10.1002/cbic.201402239] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/15/2014] [Indexed: 11/10/2022]
Abstract
Prenylation is a post-translational modification wherein an isoprenoid group is attached to a protein substrate by a protein prenyltransferase. Hundreds of peptide sequences are in vitro substrates for protein farnesyltransferase (FTase), but it remains unknown which of these sequences can successfully compete for in vivo prenylation. Translating in vitro studies to predict in vivo protein farnesylation requires determining the minimum reactivity needed for modification by FTase within the cell. Towards this goal, we developed a reporter protein series spanning several orders of magnitude in FTase reactivity as a calibrated sensor for endogenous FTase activity. Our approach provides a minimally invasive method to monitor changes in cellular FTase activity in response to environmental or genetic factors. Determining the reactivity "threshold" for in vivo prenylation will help define the prenylated proteome and identify prenylation-dependent pathways for therapeutic targeting.
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Affiliation(s)
- Susan C Flynn
- Syracuse University Department of Chemistry, 1-014 Center for Science and Technology, Syracuse, NY 13244-4100 (USA)
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24
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Mabanglo MF, Hast MA, Lubock NB, Hellinga HW, Beese LS. Crystal structures of the fungal pathogen Aspergillus fumigatus protein farnesyltransferase complexed with substrates and inhibitors reveal features for antifungal drug design. Protein Sci 2014; 23:289-301. [PMID: 24347326 PMCID: PMC3945837 DOI: 10.1002/pro.2411] [Citation(s) in RCA: 19] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/14/2013] [Revised: 12/11/2013] [Accepted: 12/11/2013] [Indexed: 11/07/2022]
Abstract
Species of the fungal genus Aspergillus are significant human and agricultural pathogens that are often refractory to existing antifungal treatments. Protein farnesyltransferase (FTase), a critical enzyme in eukaryotes, is an attractive potential target for antifungal drug discovery. We report high-resolution structures of A. fumigatus FTase (AfFTase) in complex with substrates and inhibitors. Comparison of structures with farnesyldiphosphate (FPP) bound in the absence or presence of peptide substrate, corresponding to successive steps in ordered substrate binding, revealed that the second substrate-binding step is accompanied by motions of a loop in the catalytic site. Re-examination of other FTase structures showed that this motion is conserved. The substrate- and product-binding clefts in the AfFTase active site are wider than in human FTase (hFTase). Widening is a consequence of small shifts in the α-helices that comprise the majority of the FTase structure, which in turn arise from sequence variation in the hydrophobic core of the protein. These structural effects are key features that distinguish fungal FTases from hFTase. Their variation results in differences in steady-state enzyme kinetics and inhibitor interactions and presents opportunities for developing selective anti-fungal drugs by exploiting size differences in the active sites. We illustrate the latter by comparing the interaction of ED5 and Tipifarnib with hFTase and AfFTase. In AfFTase, the wider groove enables ED5 to bind in the presence of FPP, whereas in hFTase it binds only in the absence of substrate. Tipifarnib binds similarly to both enzymes but makes less extensive contacts in AfFTase with consequently weaker binding.
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Affiliation(s)
- Mark F Mabanglo
- Department of Biochemistry, Duke University Medical CenterDurham, North Carolina, 27710
| | - Michael A Hast
- Department of Biochemistry, Duke University Medical CenterDurham, North Carolina, 27710
| | - Nathan B Lubock
- Department of Biochemistry, Duke University Medical CenterDurham, North Carolina, 27710
| | - Homme W Hellinga
- Department of Biochemistry, Duke University Medical CenterDurham, North Carolina, 27710
| | - Lorena S Beese
- Department of Biochemistry, Duke University Medical CenterDurham, North Carolina, 27710
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25
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Rojo-Arreola L, Long T, Asarnow D, Suzuki BM, Singh R, Caffrey CR. Chemical and genetic validation of the statin drug target to treat the helminth disease, schistosomiasis. PLoS One 2014; 9:e87594. [PMID: 24489942 PMCID: PMC3906178 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pone.0087594] [Citation(s) in RCA: 56] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/18/2013] [Accepted: 12/21/2013] [Indexed: 12/26/2022] Open
Abstract
The mevalonate pathway is essential in eukaryotes and responsible for a diversity of fundamental synthetic activities. 3-hydroxy-3-methylglutaryl coenzyme A reductase (HMGR) is the rate-limiting enzyme in the pathway and is targeted by the ubiquitous statin drugs to treat hypercholesterolemia. Independent reports have indicated the cidal effects of statins against the flatworm parasite, S. mansoni, and the possibility that SmHMGR is a useful drug target to develop new statin-based anti-schistosome therapies. For six commercially available statins, we demonstrate concentration- and time-dependent killing of immature (somule) and adult S. mansoni in vitro at sub-micromolar and micromolar concentrations, respectively. Cidal activity trends with statin lipophilicity whereby simvastatin and pravastatin are the most and least active, respectively. Worm death is preventable by excess mevalonate, the product of HMGR. Statin activity against somules was quantified both manually and automatically using a new, machine learning-based automated algorithm with congruent results. In addition, to chemical targeting, RNA interference (RNAi) of HMGR also kills somules in vitro and, again, lethality is blocked by excess mevalonate. Further, RNAi of HMGR of somules in vitro subsequently limits parasite survival in a mouse model of infection by up to 80%. Parasite death, either via statins or specific RNAi of HMGR, is associated with activation of apoptotic caspase activity. Together, our genetic and chemical data confirm that S. mansoni HMGR is an essential gene and the relevant target of statin drugs. We discuss our findings in context of a potential drug development program and the desired product profile for a new schistosomiasis drug.
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Affiliation(s)
- Liliana Rojo-Arreola
- Center for Discovery and Innovation in Parasitic Diseases, Department of Pathology, University of California San Francisco, San Francisco, California, United States of America
| | - Thavy Long
- Center for Discovery and Innovation in Parasitic Diseases, Department of Pathology, University of California San Francisco, San Francisco, California, United States of America
| | - Dan Asarnow
- Department of Computer Science, San Francisco State University, San Francisco, California, United States of America
| | - Brian M. Suzuki
- Center for Discovery and Innovation in Parasitic Diseases, Department of Pathology, University of California San Francisco, San Francisco, California, United States of America
| | - Rahul Singh
- Center for Discovery and Innovation in Parasitic Diseases, Department of Pathology, University of California San Francisco, San Francisco, California, United States of America
- Department of Computer Science, San Francisco State University, San Francisco, California, United States of America
| | - Conor R. Caffrey
- Center for Discovery and Innovation in Parasitic Diseases, Department of Pathology, University of California San Francisco, San Francisco, California, United States of America
- * E-mail:
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26
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Marakasova ES, Akhmatova NK, Amaya M, Eisenhaber B, Eisenhaber F, van Hoek ML, Baranova AV. Prenylation: From bacteria to eukaryotes. Mol Biol 2013. [DOI: 10.1134/s0026893313050130] [Citation(s) in RCA: 13] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/23/2023]
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27
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Restricted substrate specificity for the geranylgeranyltransferase-I enzyme in Cryptococcus neoformans: implications for virulence. EUKARYOTIC CELL 2013; 12:1462-71. [PMID: 24014765 DOI: 10.1128/ec.00193-13] [Citation(s) in RCA: 15] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/30/2023]
Abstract
Proper cellular localization is required for the function of many proteins. The CaaX prenyltransferases (where CaaX indicates a cysteine followed by two aliphatic amino acids and a variable amino acid) direct the subcellular localization of a large group of proteins by catalyzing the attachment of hydrophobic isoprenoid moieties onto C-terminal CaaX motifs, thus facilitating membrane association. This group of enzymes includes farnesyltransferase (Ftase) and geranylgeranyltransferase-I (Ggtase-1). Classically, the variable (X) amino acid determines whether a protein will be an Ftase or Ggtase-I substrate, with Ggtase-I substrates often containing CaaL motifs. In this study, we identify the gene encoding the β subunit of Ggtase-I (CDC43) and demonstrate that Ggtase-mediated activity is not essential. However, Cryptococcus neoformans CDC43 is important for thermotolerance, morphogenesis, and virulence. We find that Ggtase-I function is required for full membrane localization of Rho10 and the two Cdc42 paralogs (Cdc42 and Cdc420). Interestingly, the related Rac and Ras proteins are not mislocalized in the cdc43Δ mutant even though they contain similar CaaL motifs. Additionally, the membrane localization of each of these GTPases is dependent on the prenylation of the CaaX cysteine. These results indicate that C. neoformans CaaX prenyltransferases may recognize their substrates in a unique manner from existing models of prenyltransferase specificity. It also suggests that the C. neoformans Ftase, which has been shown to be more important for C. neoformans proliferation and viability, may be the primary prenyltransferase for proteins that are typically geranylgeranylated in other species.
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Target-based drug discovery for human African trypanosomiasis: selection of molecular target and chemical matter. Parasitology 2013; 141:28-36. [PMID: 23931634 PMCID: PMC3884840 DOI: 10.1017/s0031182013001017] [Citation(s) in RCA: 27] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/28/2023]
Abstract
Target-based approaches for human African trypanosomiasis (HAT) and related parasites can be a valuable route for drug discovery for these diseases. However, care needs to be taken in selection of both the actual drug target and the chemical matter that is developed. In this article, potential criteria to aid target selection are described. Then the physiochemical properties of typical oral drugs are discussed and compared to those of known anti-parasitics.
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Mani L, Jullian V, Mourkazel B, Valentin A, Dubois J, Cresteil T, Folcher E, Hooper JNA, Erpenbeck D, Aalbersberg W, Debitus C. New antiplasmodial bromotyrosine derivatives from Suberea ianthelliformis Lendenfeld, 1888. Chem Biodivers 2013; 9:1436-51. [PMID: 22899605 DOI: 10.1002/cbdv.201100309] [Citation(s) in RCA: 24] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/31/2022]
Abstract
Four samples of Suberea ianthelliformis were investigated and furnished five new and 13 known brominated tyrosine-derived compounds. Two of the new compounds were identified as araplysillin N20-formamide and its N-oxide derivative. Three other new compounds, araplysillins IV, V, and VI, were isolated and identified as analogs of araplysillin II. Most of these compounds exhibit moderate inhibitory activities against chloroquine-resistant and -sensitive strains of Plasmodium falciparum, and were investigated for their PFTase inhibitory properties. The chemical content of the investigated sponges is correlated with their molecular phylogeny.
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Affiliation(s)
- Luke Mani
- UMR 152, IRD, 118, route de Narbonne, FR-31062 Toulouse cedex 9, France
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Ochocki JD, Distefano MD. Prenyltransferase Inhibitors: Treating Human Ailments from Cancer to Parasitic Infections. MEDCHEMCOMM 2013; 4:476-492. [PMID: 25530833 DOI: 10.1039/c2md20299a] [Citation(s) in RCA: 50] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/13/2022]
Abstract
The posttranslational modification of protein prenylation is a covalent lipid modification on the C-terminus of substrate proteins that serves to enhance membrane affinity. Oncogenic proteins such as Ras have this modification and significant effort has been placed into developing inhibitors of the prenyltransferase enzymes for clinical therapy. In addition to cancer therapy, prenyltransferase inhibitors have begun to find important therapeutic uses in other diseases, including progeria, hepatitis C and D, parasitic infections, and other maladies. This review will trace the evolution of prenyltransferase inhibitors from their initial use as cancer therapeutics to their expanded applications for other diseases.
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Affiliation(s)
- Joshua D Ochocki
- Department of Chemistry, University of Minnesota, Minneapolis, MN 55455 (USA)
| | - Mark D Distefano
- Department of Chemistry, University of Minnesota, Minneapolis, MN 55455 (USA)
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Bosc D, Mouray E, Grellier P, Cojean S, Loiseau PM, Dubois J. Introduction of methionine mimics on 3-arylthiophene: influence on protein farnesyltransferase inhibition and on antiparasitic activity. MEDCHEMCOMM 2013. [DOI: 10.1039/c3md00065f] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/21/2022]
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32
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Protein palmitoylation and pathogenesis in apicomplexan parasites. J Biomed Biotechnol 2012; 2012:483969. [PMID: 23093847 PMCID: PMC3470895 DOI: 10.1155/2012/483969] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/23/2012] [Revised: 07/18/2012] [Accepted: 07/24/2012] [Indexed: 01/02/2023] Open
Abstract
Apicomplexan parasites comprise a broad variety of protozoan parasites, including Toxoplasma gondii, Plasmodium, Eimeria, and Cryptosporidium species. Being intracellular parasites, the success in establishing pathogenesis relies in their ability to infect a host-cell and replicate within it. Protein palmitoylation is known to affect many aspects of cell biology. Furthermore, palmitoylation has recently been shown to affect important processes in T. gondii such as replication, invasion, and gliding. Thus, this paper focuses on the importance of protein palmitoylation in the pathogenesis of apicomplexan parasites.
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Li L, Zhang W, Cheng S, Cao D, Parent M. Isoprenoids and related pharmacological interventions: potential application in Alzheimer's disease. Mol Neurobiol 2012; 46:64-77. [PMID: 22418893 DOI: 10.1007/s12035-012-8253-1] [Citation(s) in RCA: 36] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/09/2012] [Accepted: 02/28/2012] [Indexed: 12/18/2022]
Abstract
Two major isoprenoids, farnesyl pyrophosphate and geranylgeranyl pyrophosphate, serve as lipid donors for the posttranslational modification (known as prenylation) of proteins that possess a characteristic C-terminal motif. The prenylation reaction is catalyzed by prenyltransferases. The lipid prenyl group facilitates to anchor the proteins in cell membranes and mediates protein-protein interactions. A variety of important intracellular proteins undergo prenylation, including almost all members of small GTPase superfamilies as well as heterotrimeric G protein subunits and nuclear lamins. These prenylated proteins are involved in regulating a wide range of cellular processes and functions, such as cell growth, differentiation, cytoskeletal organization, and vesicle trafficking. Prenylated proteins are also implicated in the pathogenesis of different types of diseases. Consequently, isoprenoids and/or prenyltransferases have emerged as attractive therapeutic targets for combating various disorders. This review attempts to summarize the pharmacological agents currently available or under development that control isoprenoid availability and/or the process of prenylation, mainly focusing on statins, bisphosphonates, and prenyltransferase inhibitors. Whereas statins and bisphosphonates deplete the production of isoprenoids by inhibiting the activity of upstream enzymes, prenyltransferase inhibitors directly block the prenylation of proteins. As the importance of isoprenoids and prenylated proteins in health and disease continues to emerge, the therapeutic potential of these pharmacological agents has expanded across multiple disciplines. This review mainly discusses their potential application in Alzheimer's disease.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ling Li
- Department of Experimental and Clinical Pharmacology, University of Minnesota, 2001 6th St SE, MTRF 4-208, Minneapolis, MN 55455, USA.
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The GTPase TcRjl of the human pathogen Trypanosoma cruzi is involved in the cell growth and differentiation. Biochem Biophys Res Commun 2012; 419:38-42. [PMID: 22326867 DOI: 10.1016/j.bbrc.2012.01.119] [Citation(s) in RCA: 12] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/18/2012] [Accepted: 01/25/2012] [Indexed: 11/20/2022]
Abstract
The protozoan parasite Trypanosoma cruzi, the etiological agent of Chagas Disease, undergoes through a complex life cycle where rounds of cell division and differentiation occur initially in the gut of triatominae vectors and, after transmission, inside of infected cells in vertebrate hosts. Members of the Ras superfamily of GTPases are molecular switches which play pivotal regulatory functions in cell growth and differentiation. We have previously described a novel GTPase in T. cruzi, TcRjl, which belongs to the RJL family of Ras-related GTP binding proteins. Here we show that most of TcRjl protein is found bound to GTP nucleotides and may be locked in this stage. In addition, we show that TcRjl is located close to the kinetoplast, in a region corresponding possibly to flagellar pocket of the parasite and the expression of a dominant-negative TcRjl construct (TcRjlS37N) displays a significative growth phenotype in reduced serum medium. Remarkably, overexpression of TcRjl inhibits differentiation of epimastigotes to trypomastigote forms and promotes the accumulation of intermediate differentiation stages. Our data suggest that TcRjl might play a role in the control of the parasite growth and differentiation.
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Lethu S, Bosc D, Mouray E, Grellier P, Dubois J. New protein farnesyltransferase inhibitors in the 3-arylthiophene 2-carboxylic acid series: diversification of the aryl moiety by solid-phase synthesis. J Enzyme Inhib Med Chem 2012; 28:163-71. [DOI: 10.3109/14756366.2011.643302] [Citation(s) in RCA: 27] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/13/2022] Open
Affiliation(s)
- Sébastien Lethu
- Institut de Chimie des Substances Naturelles, CNRS, Centre de Recherche de Gif,
Gif sur Yvette, France
| | - Damien Bosc
- Institut de Chimie des Substances Naturelles, CNRS, Centre de Recherche de Gif,
Gif sur Yvette, France
| | | | | | - Joëlle Dubois
- Institut de Chimie des Substances Naturelles, CNRS, Centre de Recherche de Gif,
Gif sur Yvette, France
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36
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Ghinet A, Rigo B, Dubois J, Farce A, Hénichart JP, Gautret P. Discovery of ferrocene-containing farnesyltransferase inhibitors. Investigation of bulky lipophilic groups for the A2 binding site of farnesyltransferase. MEDCHEMCOMM 2012. [DOI: 10.1039/c2md20138k] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/21/2022]
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37
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Bosc D, Lethu S, Mouray E, Grellier P, Dubois J. Improvement of the trypanocidal activity of 3-arylthiophene farnesyltransferase inhibitors by modulation of their 3-aryl group. MEDCHEMCOMM 2012. [DOI: 10.1039/c2md20197f] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/21/2022]
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38
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Hunter WN. Isoprenoid precursor biosynthesis offers potential targets for drug discovery against diseases caused by apicomplexan parasites. Curr Top Med Chem 2011; 11:2048-59. [PMID: 21619509 DOI: 10.2174/156802611796575867] [Citation(s) in RCA: 17] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/26/2010] [Accepted: 07/27/2010] [Indexed: 02/08/2023]
Abstract
Two, simple, C5 compounds, dimethylally diphosphate and isopentenyl diphosphate, are the universal precursors of isoprenoids, a large family of natural products involved in numerous important biological processes. Two distinct biosynthetic pathways have evolved to supply these precursors. Humans use the mevalonate route whilst many species of bacteria including important pathogens, plant chloroplasts and apicomplexan parasites exploit the non-mevalonate pathway. The absence from humans, combined with genetic and chemical validation suggests that the non-mevalonate pathway holds the potential to support new drug discovery programmes targeting Gram-negative bacteria and the apicomplexan parasites responsible for causing serious human diseases, and also infections of veterinary importance. The non-mevalonate pathway relies on eight enzyme-catalyzed stages exploiting a range of cofactors and metal ions. A wealth of structural and mechanistic data, mainly derived from studies of bacterial enzymes, now exists for most components of the pathway and these will be described. Particular attention will be paid to how these data inform on the apicomplexan orthologues concentrating on the enzymes from Plasmodium spp. these cause malaria, one the most important parasitic diseases in the world today.
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Affiliation(s)
- William N Hunter
- Division of Biological Chemistry and Drug Discovery, College of Life Sciences, University of Dundee, UK.
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39
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Amaya M, Baranova A, van Hoek ML. Protein prenylation: a new mode of host-pathogen interaction. Biochem Biophys Res Commun 2011; 416:1-6. [PMID: 22079293 DOI: 10.1016/j.bbrc.2011.10.142] [Citation(s) in RCA: 18] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/25/2011] [Accepted: 10/28/2011] [Indexed: 01/10/2023]
Abstract
Post translational modifications are required for proteins to be fully functional. The three step process, prenylation, leads to farnesylation or geranylgeranylation, which increase the hydrophobicity of the prenylated protein for efficient anchoring into plasma membranes and/or organellar membranes. Prenylated proteins function in a number of signaling and regulatory pathways that are responsible for basic cell operations. Well characterized prenylated proteins include Ras, Rac and Rho. Recently, pathogenic prokaryotic proteins, such as SifA and AnkB, have been shown to be prenylated by eukaryotic host cell machinery, but their functions remain elusive. The identification of other bacterial proteins undergoing this type of host-directed post-translational modification shows promise in elucidating host-pathogen interactions to develop new therapeutics. This review incorporates new advances in the study of protein prenylation into a broader aspect of biology with a focus on host-pathogen interaction.
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Affiliation(s)
- Moushimi Amaya
- School of Systems Biology, George Mason University, 10900 University Blvd, Manassas, VA 20110, USA
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40
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Botté CY, Dubar F, McFadden GI, Maréchal E, Biot C. Plasmodium falciparum apicoplast drugs: targets or off-targets? Chem Rev 2011; 112:1269-83. [PMID: 22026508 DOI: 10.1021/cr200258w] [Citation(s) in RCA: 63] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/04/2023]
Affiliation(s)
- Cyrille Y Botté
- Laboratoire de Physiologie Cellulaire Végétale, UMR 5168, CNRS, CEA, INRA, Université Joseph Fourier, Grenoble, France
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Abstract
Protein farnesylation and geranylgeranylation, together referred to as prenylation, are lipid post-translational modifications that are required for the transforming activity of many oncogenic proteins, including some RAS family members. This observation prompted the development of inhibitors of farnesyltransferase (FT) and geranylgeranyl-transferase 1 (GGT1) as potential anticancer drugs. In this Review, we discuss the mechanisms by which FT and GGT1 inhibitors (FTIs and GGTIs, respectively) affect signal transduction pathways, cell cycle progression, proliferation and cell survival. In contrast to their preclinical efficacy, only a small subset of patients responds to FTIs. Identifying tumours that depend on farnesylation for survival remains a challenge, and strategies to overcome this are discussed. One GGTI has recently entered the clinic, and the safety and efficacy of GGTIs await results from clinical trials.
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Affiliation(s)
- Norbert Berndt
- Drug Discovery Department, Moffitt Cancer Center, 12902 Magnolia Drive, Tampa, Florida 33612, USA
| | - Andrew D. Hamilton
- University of Oxford, Vice-Chancellor’s Office, Wellington Square, Oxford OX1 2JD, UK
| | - Saïd M. Sebti
- Drug Discovery Department, Moffitt Cancer Center, 12902 Magnolia Drive, Tampa, Florida 33612, USA
- Departments of Oncologic Sciences and Molecular Medicine, University of South Florida, 12901 Bruce B. Downs Boulevard, Tampa, Florida 33612, USA
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Affiliation(s)
- Howard C. Hang
- Laboratory of Chemical Biology and Microbial Pathogenesis, The Rockefeller University, 1230 York Avenue, New York, NY 10065 (USA)
| | - Maurine E. Linder
- Department of Molecular Medicine, College of Veterinary Medicine, Cornell University, Ithaca, NY 14853 (USA)
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43
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Hast MA, Nichols CB, Armstrong SM, Kelly SM, Hellinga HW, Alspaugh JA, Beese LS. Structures of Cryptococcus neoformans protein farnesyltransferase reveal strategies for developing inhibitors that target fungal pathogens. J Biol Chem 2011; 286:35149-62. [PMID: 21816822 DOI: 10.1074/jbc.m111.250506] [Citation(s) in RCA: 41] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/06/2022] Open
Abstract
Cryptococcus neoformans is a fungal pathogen that causes life-threatening infections in immunocompromised individuals, including AIDS patients and transplant recipients. Few antifungals can treat C. neoformans infections, and drug resistance is increasing. Protein farnesyltransferase (FTase) catalyzes post-translational lipidation of key signal transduction proteins and is essential in C. neoformans. We present a multidisciplinary study validating C. neoformans FTase (CnFTase) as a drug target, showing that several anticancer FTase inhibitors with disparate scaffolds can inhibit C. neoformans and suggesting structure-based strategies for further optimization of these leads. Structural studies are an essential element for species-specific inhibitor development strategies by revealing similarities and differences between pathogen and host orthologs that can be exploited. We, therefore, present eight crystal structures of CnFTase that define the enzymatic reaction cycle, basis of ligand selection, and structurally divergent regions of the active site. Crystal structures of clinically important anticancer FTase inhibitors in complex with CnFTase reveal opportunities for optimization of selectivity for the fungal enzyme by modifying functional groups that interact with structurally diverse regions. A substrate-induced conformational change in CnFTase is observed as part of the reaction cycle, a feature that is mechanistically distinct from human FTase. Our combined structural and functional studies provide a framework for developing FTase inhibitors to treat invasive fungal infections.
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Affiliation(s)
- Michael A Hast
- Department of Biochemistry, Duke University Medical Center, Durham, North Carolina 27710, USA
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Durrant JD, Cao R, Gorfe AA, Zhu W, Li J, Sankovsky A, Oldfield E, McCammon JA. Non-bisphosphonate inhibitors of isoprenoid biosynthesis identified via computer-aided drug design. Chem Biol Drug Des 2011; 78:323-32. [PMID: 21696546 PMCID: PMC3155669 DOI: 10.1111/j.1747-0285.2011.01164.x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 41] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/28/2022]
Abstract
The relaxed complex scheme, a virtual-screening methodology that accounts for protein receptor flexibility, was used to identify a low-micromolar, non-bisphosphonate inhibitor of farnesyl diphosphate synthase. Serendipitously, we also found that several predicted farnesyl diphosphate synthase inhibitors were low-micromolar inhibitors of undecaprenyl diphosphate synthase. These results are of interest because farnesyl diphosphate synthase inhibitors are being pursued as both anti-infective and anticancer agents, and undecaprenyl diphosphate synthase inhibitors are antibacterial drug leads.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jacob D Durrant
- Department of Chemistry & Biochemistry, University of California San Diego, 9500 Gilman Drive, Mail Code 0365, La Jolla, CA 92093, USA.
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45
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Brun R, Don R, Jacobs RT, Wang MZ, Barrett MP. Development of novel drugs for human African trypanosomiasis. Future Microbiol 2011; 6:677-91. [DOI: 10.2217/fmb.11.44] [Citation(s) in RCA: 108] [Impact Index Per Article: 8.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/21/2022] Open
Abstract
Human African trypanosomiasis (HAT) or ‘sleeping sickness’ is a neglected tropical disease caused by the parasite Trypanosoma brucei. Novel models for funding pharmaceutical development against HAT are beginning to yield results. The Drugs for Neglected Diseases initiative (DNDi) rediscovered a nitroimidazole, fexinidazole, which is currently in Phase I clinical trials. Novel benzoxaboroles, discovered by Anacor, Scynexis and DNDi, have good pharmacokinetic properties in plasma and in the brain and are curative in a murine model of stage two HAT with brain infection. The Consortium for Parasitic Drug Development (CPDD) has identified a series of dicationic compounds that can cure a monkey model of stage two HAT. With other screening programs yielding hits, the pipeline for new HAT drugs might finally begin to fill.
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Affiliation(s)
- Reto Brun
- Department Medical Parasitology & Infection Biology, Swiss Tropical & Public Health Institute, and, University of Basel, CH-4002 Basel, Switzerland
| | - Robert Don
- Drugs for Neglected Diseases initiative, Geneva, Switzerland
| | - Robert T Jacobs
- Department of Chemistry, SCYNEXIS, Inc., PO Box 12878, Research Triangle Park, NC, 27709-2878, USA
| | - Michael Zhuo Wang
- Eshelman School of Pharmacy, University of North Carolina, Chapel Hill, NC, USA
| | - Michael P Barrett
- Wellcome Trust Centre for Molecular Parasitology, University of Glasgow, Glasgow, Scotland
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Lethu S, Dubois J. SNAr and Palladium-Catalyzed Reactions of Deactivated Thiophene: Application to the Synthesis of Protein Farnesyltransferase Inhibitors. European J Org Chem 2011. [DOI: 10.1002/ejoc.201100215] [Citation(s) in RCA: 13] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/10/2022]
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Ras Isoprenylation and pAkt Inhibition by Zoledronic Acid and Fluvastatin Enhances Paclitaxel Activity in T24 Bladder Cancer Cells. Cancers (Basel) 2011; 3:662-74. [PMID: 24212635 PMCID: PMC3756383 DOI: 10.3390/cancers3010662] [Citation(s) in RCA: 13] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/29/2010] [Revised: 01/30/2011] [Accepted: 02/09/2011] [Indexed: 11/16/2022] Open
Abstract
Background Bisphosphonates interfere with the mevalonate pathway and inhibit the prenylation of small GTP-binding proteins such as ras and rap. We hypothesized that zoledronic acid would synergistically inhibit T24 bladder cancer cell growth in combination with fluvastatin and paclitaxel. Methods Increasing doses of fluvastatin, zoledronic acid, and paclitaxel were investigated as single agents and in combination, and synergistic interactions were evaluated by the Chou-Talalay method. Western blots were used to assess effects on signal transduction pathways. Results Growth of T24 was significantly inhibited with IC50 values of 2.67 ± 0.61 μM for fluvastatin and 5.35 ± 1.35 μM for zoledronic acid after 72 hours treatment. Geranylgeranyl pyrophosphate and farnesyl pyrophosphate was able to block, in part, this inhibitory activity. The combinations of zoledronic acid and paclitaxel, zoledronic acid and fluvastatin, and fluvastatin and paclitaxel were all synergistic. Both fluvastatin and zoledronic acid inhibited Ras and Rap prenylation, and the phosphorylation of ERK1/2 and AKT. The degree of inhibition of phosphorylation of these key signaling transduction pathways appears to closely correlate with their synergistic interactions. Conclusions Zoledronic acid enhances fluvastatin and paclitaxel activity against T24 in a synergistic manner and this is mediated largely by inhibition of both the Ras/Raf/MEK/ERK and PI3K/AKT signaling pathways via isoprenylation inhibition.
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48
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Global Identification of Protein Prenyltransferase Substrates. ACTA ACUST UNITED AC 2011. [DOI: 10.1016/b978-0-12-381339-8.00012-3] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 04/06/2023]
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49
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Jacobs RT, Nare B, Phillips MA. State of the art in African trypanosome drug discovery. Curr Top Med Chem 2011; 11:1255-74. [PMID: 21401507 PMCID: PMC3101707 DOI: 10.2174/156802611795429167] [Citation(s) in RCA: 104] [Impact Index Per Article: 8.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/06/2010] [Accepted: 11/25/2010] [Indexed: 11/22/2022]
Abstract
African sleeping sickness is endemic in sub-Saharan Africa where the WHO estimates that 60 million people are at risk for the disease. Human African trypanosomiasis (HAT) is 100% fatal if untreated and the current drug therapies have significant limitations due to toxicity and difficult treatment regimes. No new chemical agents have been approved since eflornithine in 1990. The pentamidine analog DB289, which was in late stage clinical trials for the treatment of early stage HAT recently failed due to toxicity issues. A new protocol for the treatment of late-stage T. brucei gambiense that uses combination nifurtomox/eflornithine (NECT) was recently shown to have better safety and efficacy than eflornithine alone, while being easier to administer. This breakthrough represents the only new therapy for HAT since the approval of eflornithine. A number of research programs are on going to exploit the unusual biochemical pathways in the parasite to identify new targets for target based drug discovery programs. HTS efforts are also underway to discover new chemical entities through whole organism screening approaches. A number of inhibitors with anti-trypanosomal activity have been identified by both approaches, but none of the programs are yet at the stage of identifying a preclinical candidate. This dire situation underscores the need for continued effort to identify new chemical agents for the treatment of HAT.
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Affiliation(s)
- Robert T. Jacobs
- SCYNEXIS, Inc., Research Triangle Park, North Carolina 27709-2878
| | - Bakela Nare
- SCYNEXIS, Inc., Research Triangle Park, North Carolina 27709-2878
| | - Margaret A. Phillips
- Department of Pharmacology, University of Texas Southwestern Medical Center at Dallas, 6001 Forest Park Rd, Dallas, Texas 75390-9041
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50
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Charron G, Tsou LK, Maguire W, Yount JS, Hang HC. Alkynyl-farnesol reporters for detection of protein S-prenylation in cells. MOLECULAR BIOSYSTEMS 2010; 7:67-73. [PMID: 21107478 DOI: 10.1039/c0mb00183j] [Citation(s) in RCA: 37] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/28/2022]
Abstract
Protein S-prenylation is a lipid modification that regulates membrane-protein and protein-protein interactions in cell signaling. Though sites of protein S-prenylation can be predicted based upon conserved C-terminal CaaX or CC/CXC motifs, biochemical detection of protein S-prenylation in cells is still challenging. Herein, we report an alkynyl-isoprenol chemical reporter (alk-FOH) as an efficient substrate for prenyltransferases in mammalian cells that enables sensitive detection of S-farnesylated and S-geranylgeranylated proteins using bioorthogonal ligation methods. Fluorescent detection alleviates the need to deplete cellular isoprenoids for biochemical analysis of S-prenylated proteins and enables robust characterization of S-prenylated proteins, such as effectors that are injected into host cells by bacterial pathogens. This alkynyl-prenylation reporter provides a sensitive tool for biochemical analysis and rapid profiling of prenylated proteins in cells.
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Affiliation(s)
- Guillaume Charron
- The Laboratory of Chemical Biology and Microbial Pathogenesis, The Rockefeller University, New York, NY 10065, USA
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