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Spiwoková P, Horn M, Fanfrlík J, Jílková A, Fajtová P, Leontovyč A, Houštecká R, Bieliková L, Brynda J, Chanová M, Mertlíková-Kaiserová H, Caro-Diaz EJE, Almaliti J, El-Sakkary N, Gerwick WH, Caffrey CR, Mareš M. Nature-Inspired Gallinamides Are Potent Antischistosomal Agents: Inhibition of the Cathepsin B1 Protease Target and Binding Mode Analysis. ACS Infect Dis 2024; 10:1935-1948. [PMID: 38757505 PMCID: PMC11184554 DOI: 10.1021/acsinfecdis.3c00589] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/01/2023] [Revised: 05/09/2024] [Accepted: 05/09/2024] [Indexed: 05/18/2024]
Abstract
Schistosomiasis, caused by a parasitic blood fluke of the genus Schistosoma, is a global health problem for which new chemotherapeutic options are needed. We explored the scaffold of gallinamide A, a natural peptidic metabolite of marine cyanobacteria that has previously been shown to inhibit cathepsin L-type proteases. We screened a library of 19 synthetic gallinamide A analogs and identified nanomolar inhibitors of the cathepsin B-type protease SmCB1, which is a drug target for the treatment of schistosomiasis mansoni. Against cultured S. mansoni schistosomula and adult worms, many of the gallinamides generated a range of deleterious phenotypic responses. Imaging with a fluorescent-activity-based probe derived from gallinamide A demonstrated that SmCB1 is the primary target for gallinamides in the parasite. Furthermore, we solved the high-resolution crystal structures of SmCB1 in complex with gallinamide A and its two analogs and describe the acrylamide covalent warhead and binding mode in the active site. Quantum chemical calculations evaluated the contribution of individual positions in the peptidomimetic scaffold to the inhibition of the target and demonstrated the importance of the P1' and P2 positions. Our study introduces gallinamides as a powerful chemotype that can be exploited for the development of novel antischistosomal chemotherapeutics.
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Affiliation(s)
- Petra Spiwoková
- Institute
of Organic Chemistry and Biochemistry of the Czech Academy of Sciences, Flemingovo n. 2, Prague 6 16610, Czech Republic
- Department
of Biochemistry and Microbiology, University
of Chemistry and Technology, Technická 5, Prague 6 16628, Czech Republic
| | - Martin Horn
- Institute
of Organic Chemistry and Biochemistry of the Czech Academy of Sciences, Flemingovo n. 2, Prague 6 16610, Czech Republic
| | - Jindřich Fanfrlík
- Institute
of Organic Chemistry and Biochemistry of the Czech Academy of Sciences, Flemingovo n. 2, Prague 6 16610, Czech Republic
| | - Adéla Jílková
- Institute
of Organic Chemistry and Biochemistry of the Czech Academy of Sciences, Flemingovo n. 2, Prague 6 16610, Czech Republic
| | - Pavla Fajtová
- Institute
of Organic Chemistry and Biochemistry of the Czech Academy of Sciences, Flemingovo n. 2, Prague 6 16610, Czech Republic
- Center
for Discovery and Innovation in Parasitic Diseases, Skaggs School
of Pharmacy and Pharmaceutical Sciences, University of California, La Jolla, San Diego, California 92093, United States
| | - Adrian Leontovyč
- Institute
of Organic Chemistry and Biochemistry of the Czech Academy of Sciences, Flemingovo n. 2, Prague 6 16610, Czech Republic
| | - Radka Houštecká
- Institute
of Organic Chemistry and Biochemistry of the Czech Academy of Sciences, Flemingovo n. 2, Prague 6 16610, Czech Republic
- First
Faculty of Medicine, Charles University, Kateřinská 32, Praha 2 12108, Czech Republic
| | - Lucia Bieliková
- Institute
of Organic Chemistry and Biochemistry of the Czech Academy of Sciences, Flemingovo n. 2, Prague 6 16610, Czech Republic
- First
Faculty of Medicine, Charles University, Kateřinská 32, Praha 2 12108, Czech Republic
| | - Jiří Brynda
- Institute
of Organic Chemistry and Biochemistry of the Czech Academy of Sciences, Flemingovo n. 2, Prague 6 16610, Czech Republic
| | - Marta Chanová
- Institute
of Immunology and Microbiology, First Faculty of Medicine, Charles University and General University Hospital
in Prague, Studničkova
2028/7, Prague 2 12800, Czech Republic
| | - Helena Mertlíková-Kaiserová
- Institute
of Organic Chemistry and Biochemistry of the Czech Academy of Sciences, Flemingovo n. 2, Prague 6 16610, Czech Republic
| | - Eduardo J. E. Caro-Diaz
- Scripps Institution
of Oceanography, University of California, La Jolla, San Diego, California 92093, United States
| | - Jehad Almaliti
- Center
for Discovery and Innovation in Parasitic Diseases, Skaggs School
of Pharmacy and Pharmaceutical Sciences, University of California, La Jolla, San Diego, California 92093, United States
- Scripps Institution
of Oceanography, University of California, La Jolla, San Diego, California 92093, United States
| | - Nelly El-Sakkary
- Center
for Discovery and Innovation in Parasitic Diseases, Skaggs School
of Pharmacy and Pharmaceutical Sciences, University of California, La Jolla, San Diego, California 92093, United States
| | - William H. Gerwick
- Center
for Discovery and Innovation in Parasitic Diseases, Skaggs School
of Pharmacy and Pharmaceutical Sciences, University of California, La Jolla, San Diego, California 92093, United States
- Scripps Institution
of Oceanography, University of California, La Jolla, San Diego, California 92093, United States
| | - Conor R. Caffrey
- Center
for Discovery and Innovation in Parasitic Diseases, Skaggs School
of Pharmacy and Pharmaceutical Sciences, University of California, La Jolla, San Diego, California 92093, United States
| | - Michael Mareš
- Institute
of Organic Chemistry and Biochemistry of the Czech Academy of Sciences, Flemingovo n. 2, Prague 6 16610, Czech Republic
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2
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Panska L, Nedvedova S, Vacek V, Krivska D, Konecny L, Knop F, Kutil Z, Skultetyova L, Leontovyc A, Ulrychova L, Sakanari J, Asahina M, Barinka C, Macurkova M, Dvorak J. Uncovering the essential roles of glutamate carboxypeptidase 2 orthologs in Caenorhabditis elegans. Biosci Rep 2024; 44:BSR20230502. [PMID: 38108122 PMCID: PMC10794815 DOI: 10.1042/bsr20230502] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/17/2023] [Revised: 12/13/2023] [Accepted: 12/15/2023] [Indexed: 12/19/2023] Open
Abstract
Human glutamate carboxypeptidase 2 (GCP2) from the M28B metalloprotease group is an important target for therapy in neurological disorders and an established tumor marker. However, its physiological functions remain unclear. To better understand general roles, we used the model organism Caenorhabditis elegans to genetically manipulate its three existing orthologous genes and evaluate the impact on worm physiology. The results of gene knockout studies showed that C. elegans GCP2 orthologs affect the pharyngeal physiology, reproduction, and structural integrity of the organism. Promoter-driven GFP expression revealed distinct localization for each of the three gene paralogs, with gcp-2.1 being most abundant in muscles, intestine, and pharyngeal interneurons, gcp-2.2 restricted to the phasmid neurons, and gcp-2.3 located in the excretory cell. The present study provides new insight into the unique phenotypic effects of GCP2 gene knockouts in C. elegans, and the specific tissue localizations. We believe that elucidation of particular roles in a non-mammalian organism can help to explain important questions linked to physiology of this protease group and in extension to human GCP2 involvement in pathophysiological processes.
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Affiliation(s)
- Lucie Panska
- Department of Zoology and Fisheries, Center of Infectious Animal Diseases, Faculty of Agrobiology, Food and Natural Resources, Czech University of Life Sciences Prague, Kamycka 129, Prague 165 00, Czech Republic
- Faculty of Environmental Sciences, Center of Infectious Animal Diseases, Czech University of Life Sciences in Prague, Kamycka 129, Prague 165 00, Czech Republic
| | - Stepanka Nedvedova
- Department of Zoology and Fisheries, Center of Infectious Animal Diseases, Faculty of Agrobiology, Food and Natural Resources, Czech University of Life Sciences Prague, Kamycka 129, Prague 165 00, Czech Republic
- Department of Chemistry, Faculty of Agrobiology, Food and Natural Resources, Czech University of Life Sciences Prague, Kamycka 129, Prague 165 00, Czech Republic
| | - Vojtech Vacek
- Department of Zoology and Fisheries, Center of Infectious Animal Diseases, Faculty of Agrobiology, Food and Natural Resources, Czech University of Life Sciences Prague, Kamycka 129, Prague 165 00, Czech Republic
| | - Daniela Krivska
- Department of Zoology and Fisheries, Center of Infectious Animal Diseases, Faculty of Agrobiology, Food and Natural Resources, Czech University of Life Sciences Prague, Kamycka 129, Prague 165 00, Czech Republic
- Department of Chemistry, Faculty of Agrobiology, Food and Natural Resources, Czech University of Life Sciences Prague, Kamycka 129, Prague 165 00, Czech Republic
| | - Lukas Konecny
- Department of Zoology and Fisheries, Center of Infectious Animal Diseases, Faculty of Agrobiology, Food and Natural Resources, Czech University of Life Sciences Prague, Kamycka 129, Prague 165 00, Czech Republic
- Department of Parasitology, Faculty of Science, Charles University, Vinicna 7, Prague 2 128 00, Czech Republic
| | - Filip Knop
- Department of Cell Biology, Faculty of Science, Charles University, Vinicna 7, Prague 2 128 00, Czech Republic
| | - Zsofia Kutil
- Laboratory of Structural Biology, Institute of Biotechnology of the Czech Academy of Sciences, BIOCEV, Prumyslova 595, Vestec 252 50, Czech Republic
| | - Lubica Skultetyova
- Laboratory of Structural Biology, Institute of Biotechnology of the Czech Academy of Sciences, BIOCEV, Prumyslova 595, Vestec 252 50, Czech Republic
| | - Adrian Leontovyc
- Institute of Organic Chemistry and Biochemistry, The Czech Academy of Sciences, Flemingovo n. 2, Prague 160 00, Czech Republic
| | - Lenka Ulrychova
- Department of Parasitology, Faculty of Science, Charles University, Vinicna 7, Prague 2 128 00, Czech Republic
- Institute of Organic Chemistry and Biochemistry, The Czech Academy of Sciences, Flemingovo n. 2, Prague 160 00, Czech Republic
| | - Judy Sakanari
- Department of Pharmaceutical Chemistry, University of California, San Francisco, 1700 4th Street, CA 94143, USA
| | - Masako Asahina
- Department of Physiology, University of California, San Francisco, 600 16th Street, CA 94143, U.S.A
| | - Cyril Barinka
- Laboratory of Structural Biology, Institute of Biotechnology of the Czech Academy of Sciences, BIOCEV, Prumyslova 595, Vestec 252 50, Czech Republic
| | - Marie Macurkova
- Department of Cell Biology, Faculty of Science, Charles University, Vinicna 7, Prague 2 128 00, Czech Republic
| | - Jan Dvorak
- Department of Zoology and Fisheries, Center of Infectious Animal Diseases, Faculty of Agrobiology, Food and Natural Resources, Czech University of Life Sciences Prague, Kamycka 129, Prague 165 00, Czech Republic
- Faculty of Environmental Sciences, Center of Infectious Animal Diseases, Czech University of Life Sciences in Prague, Kamycka 129, Prague 165 00, Czech Republic
- Institute of Organic Chemistry and Biochemistry, The Czech Academy of Sciences, Flemingovo n. 2, Prague 160 00, Czech Republic
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Marlais T, Bickford-Smith J, Talavera-López C, Le H, Chowdhury F, Miles MA. A comparative 'omics' approach for prediction of candidate Strongyloides stercoralis diagnostic coproantigens. PLoS Negl Trop Dis 2023; 17:e0010777. [PMID: 37068106 PMCID: PMC10138266 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pntd.0010777] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/31/2022] [Revised: 04/27/2023] [Accepted: 04/03/2023] [Indexed: 04/18/2023] Open
Abstract
Human infection with the intestinal nematode Strongyloides stercoralis is persistent unless effectively treated, and potentially fatal in immunosuppressed individuals. Epidemiological data are lacking, partially due to inadequate diagnosis. A rapid antigen detection test is a priority for population surveillance, validating cure after treatment, and for screening prior to immunosuppression. We used a targeted analysis of open access 'omics' data sets and used online predictors to identify S. stercoralis proteins that are predicted to be present in infected stool, Strongyloides-specific, and antigenic. Transcriptomic data from gut and non-gut dwelling life cycle stages of S. stercoralis revealed 328 proteins that are differentially expressed. Strongyloides ratti proteomic data for excreted and secreted (E/S) proteins were matched to S. stercoralis, giving 1,057 orthologues. Five parasitism-associated protein families (SCP/TAPS, prolyl oligopeptidase, transthyretin-like, aspartic peptidase, acetylcholinesterase) were compared phylogenetically between S. stercoralis and outgroups, and proteins with least homology to the outgroups were selected. Proteins that overlapped between the transcriptomic and proteomic datasets were analysed by multiple sequence alignment, epitope prediction and 3D structure modelling to reveal S. stercoralis candidate peptide/protein coproantigens. We describe 22 candidates from seven genes, across all five protein families for further investigation as potential S. stercoralis diagnostic coproantigens, identified using open access data and freely-available protein analysis tools. This powerful approach can be applied to many parasitic infections with 'omic' data to accelerate development of specific diagnostic assays for laboratory or point-of-care field application.
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Affiliation(s)
- Tegwen Marlais
- Faculty of Infectious and Tropical Diseases, London School of Hygiene and Tropical Medicine, London, United Kingdom
| | - Jack Bickford-Smith
- Faculty of Infectious and Tropical Diseases, London School of Hygiene and Tropical Medicine, London, United Kingdom
| | - Carlos Talavera-López
- Institute of Computational Biology, Computational Health Centre, Helmholtz Munich, Neuherberg, Germany
| | - Hai Le
- Faculty of Infectious and Tropical Diseases, London School of Hygiene and Tropical Medicine, London, United Kingdom
| | - Fatima Chowdhury
- Faculty of Infectious and Tropical Diseases, London School of Hygiene and Tropical Medicine, London, United Kingdom
| | - Michael A Miles
- Faculty of Infectious and Tropical Diseases, London School of Hygiene and Tropical Medicine, London, United Kingdom
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4
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Hulme J. COVID-19 and Diarylamidines: The Parasitic Connection. Int J Mol Sci 2023; 24:6583. [PMID: 37047556 PMCID: PMC10094973 DOI: 10.3390/ijms24076583] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/15/2023] [Revised: 03/28/2023] [Accepted: 03/30/2023] [Indexed: 04/05/2023] Open
Abstract
As emerging severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2 (SARS-CoV-2) variants (Omicron) continue to outpace and negate combinatorial vaccines and monoclonal antibody therapies targeting the spike protein (S) receptor binding domain (RBD), the appetite for developing similar COVID-19 treatments has significantly diminished, with the attention of the scientific community switching to long COVID treatments. However, treatments that reduce the risk of "post-COVID-19 syndrome" and associated sequelae remain in their infancy, particularly as no established criteria for diagnosis currently exist. Thus, alternative therapies that reduce infection and prevent the broad range of symptoms associated with 'post-COVID-19 syndrome' require investigation. This review begins with an overview of the parasitic-diarylamidine connection, followed by the renin-angiotensin system (RAS) and associated angiotensin-converting enzyme 2 (ACE2) and transmembrane serine protease 2 (TMPRSSR2) involved in SARS-CoV-2 infection. Subsequently, the ability of diarylamidines to inhibit S-protein binding and various membrane serine proteases associated with SARS-CoV-2 and parasitic infections are discussed. Finally, the roles of diarylamidines (primarily DIZE) in vaccine efficacy, epigenetics, and the potential amelioration of long COVID sequelae are highlighted.
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Affiliation(s)
- John Hulme
- Department of Bionano Technology, Gachon Bionano Research Institute, Gachon University, 1342 Sungnam-daero, Sujung-gu, Seongnam-si 461-701, Republic of Korea
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5
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Buša M, Matoušková Z, Bartošová-Sojková P, Pachl P, Řezáčová P, Eichenberger RM, Deplazes P, Horn M, Štefanić S, Mareš M. An evolutionary molecular adaptation of an unusual stefin from the liver fluke Fasciola hepatica redefines the cystatin superfamily. J Biol Chem 2023; 299:102970. [PMID: 36736427 PMCID: PMC9986714 DOI: 10.1016/j.jbc.2023.102970] [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: 11/14/2022] [Revised: 01/26/2023] [Accepted: 01/29/2023] [Indexed: 02/04/2023] Open
Abstract
Fasciolosis is a worldwide parasitic disease of ruminants and an emerging human disease caused by the liver fluke Fasciola hepatica. The cystatin superfamily of cysteine protease inhibitors is composed of distinct families of intracellular stefins and secreted true cystatins. FhCyLS-2 from F. hepatica is an unusual member of the superfamily, where our sequence and 3D structure analyses in this study revealed that it combines characteristics of both families. The protein architecture demonstrates its relationship to stefins, but FhCyLS-2 also contains the secretion signal peptide and disulfide bridges typical of true cystatins. The secretion status was confirmed by detecting the presence of FhCyLS-2 in excretory/secretory products, supported by immunolocalization. Our high-resolution crystal structure of FhCyLS-2 showed a distinct disulfide bridging pattern and functional reactive center. We determined that FhCyLS-2 is a broad specificity inhibitor of cysteine cathepsins from both the host and F. hepatica, suggesting a dual role in the regulation of exogenous and endogenous proteolysis. Based on phylogenetic analysis that identified several FhCyLS-2 homologues in liver/intestinal foodborne flukes, we propose a new group within the cystatin superfamily called cystatin-like stefins.
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Affiliation(s)
- Michal Buša
- Institute of Organic Chemistry and Biochemistry, Czech Academy of Sciences, Prague, Czechia; Department of Biochemistry, Faculty of Science, Charles University, Prague, Czechia
| | - Zuzana Matoušková
- Institute of Organic Chemistry and Biochemistry, Czech Academy of Sciences, Prague, Czechia; Department of Biochemistry, Faculty of Science, Charles University, Prague, Czechia
| | | | - Petr Pachl
- Institute of Organic Chemistry and Biochemistry, Czech Academy of Sciences, Prague, Czechia
| | - Pavlína Řezáčová
- Institute of Organic Chemistry and Biochemistry, Czech Academy of Sciences, Prague, Czechia
| | | | - Peter Deplazes
- Institute of Parasitology, University of Zurich, Zurich, Switzerland
| | - Martin Horn
- Institute of Organic Chemistry and Biochemistry, Czech Academy of Sciences, Prague, Czechia
| | - Saša Štefanić
- Institute of Parasitology, University of Zurich, Zurich, Switzerland.
| | - Michael Mareš
- Institute of Organic Chemistry and Biochemistry, Czech Academy of Sciences, Prague, Czechia.
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Vondráček O, Mikeš L, Talacko P, Leontovyč R, Bulantová J, Horák P. Differential proteomic analysis of laser-microdissected penetration glands of avian schistosome cercariae with a focus on proteins involved in host invasion. Int J Parasitol 2022; 52:343-358. [PMID: 35218763 DOI: 10.1016/j.ijpara.2021.12.003] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/09/2021] [Revised: 11/30/2021] [Accepted: 12/03/2021] [Indexed: 12/11/2022]
Abstract
Schistosome invasive stages, cercariae, leave intermediate snail hosts, penetrate the skin of definitive hosts, and transform to schistosomula which migrate to the final location. During invasion, cercariae employ histolytic and other bioactive products of specialized holocrine secretory cells - postacetabular (PA) and circumacetabular (CA) penetration glands. Although several studies attempted to characterize protein composition of the in vitro-induced gland secretions in Schistosoma mansoni and Schistosoma japonicum, the results were somewhat inconsistent and dependent on the method of sample collection and processing. Products of both gland types mixed during their secretion did not allow localization of identified proteins to a particular gland. Here we compared proteomes of separately isolated cercarial gland cells of the avian schistosome Trichobilharzia szidati, employing laser-assisted microdissection and shotgun LC-MS/MS, thus obtaining the largest dataset so far of the representation and localization of cercarial penetration gland proteins. We optimized the methods of sample processing with cercarial bodies (heads) first. Alizarin-pre-stained, chemically non-fixed samples provided optimal results of MS analyses, and enabled us to distinguish PA and CA glands for microdissection. Using 7.5 x 106 μm3 sample volume per gland replicate, we identified 3347 peptides assigned to 792 proteins, from which 461 occurred in at least two of three replicates in either gland type (PA = 455, 40 exclusive; CA = 421, six exclusive; 60 proteins differed significantly in their abundance between the glands). Peptidases of five catalytic types accounted for ca. 8% and 6% of reliably identified proteins in PA and CA glands, respectively. Invadolysin, nardilysin, cathepsins B2 and L3, and elastase 2b orthologs were the major gland endopeptidases. Two cystatins and a serpin were highly abundant peptidase inhibitors in the glands. While PA glands generally had rich enzymatic equipment, CA glands were conspicuously abundant in venom allergen-like proteins.
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Affiliation(s)
- Oldřich Vondráček
- Department of Parasitology, Faculty of Science, Charles University, Viničná 7, 128 44, Prague, Czechia
| | - Libor Mikeš
- Department of Parasitology, Faculty of Science, Charles University, Viničná 7, 128 44, Prague, Czechia.
| | - Pavel Talacko
- Proteomics Core Facility, Faculty of Science, Charles University, BIOCEV Průmyslová 595, Vestec, Czechia
| | - Roman Leontovyč
- Department of Parasitology, Faculty of Science, Charles University, Viničná 7, 128 44, Prague, Czechia
| | - Jana Bulantová
- Department of Parasitology, Faculty of Science, Charles University, Viničná 7, 128 44, Prague, Czechia
| | - Petr Horák
- Department of Parasitology, Faculty of Science, Charles University, Viničná 7, 128 44, Prague, Czechia
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Qian XK, Zhang J, Li XD, Song PF, Zou LW. Research Progress on Dipeptidyl Peptidase Family: Structure, Function and Xenobiotic Metabolism. Curr Med Chem 2021; 29:2167-2188. [PMID: 34525910 DOI: 10.2174/0929867328666210915103431] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/03/2021] [Revised: 07/23/2021] [Accepted: 07/25/2021] [Indexed: 11/22/2022]
Abstract
Prolyl-specific peptidases or proteases, including Dipeptidyl Peptidase 2, 4, 6, 8, 9, 10, Fibroblast Activation Protein, prolyl endopeptidase and prolyl carboxypeptidase, belong to the dipeptidyl peptidase family. In human physiology and anatomy, they have homology amino acid sequences, similarities in structure, but play distinct functions and roles. Some of them also play important roles in the metabolism of drugs containing endogenous peptides, xenobiotics containing peptides, and exogenous peptides. The major functions of these peptidases in both the metabolism of human health and bioactive peptides are of significant importance in the development of effective inhibitors to control the metabolism of endogenous bioactive peptides. The structural characteristics, distribution of tissue, endogenous substrates, and biological functions were summarized in this review. Furthermore, the xenobiotics metabolism of the dipeptidyl peptidase family is illustrated. All the evidence and information summarized in this review would be very useful for researchers to extend the understanding of the proteins of these families and offer advice and assistance in physiology and pathology studies.
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Affiliation(s)
- Xing-Kai Qian
- Institute of Interdisciplinary Integrative Medicine Research, Shanghai University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Shanghai. China
| | - Jing Zhang
- Institute of Interdisciplinary Integrative Medicine Research, Shanghai University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Shanghai. China
| | - Xiao-Dong Li
- Institute of Interdisciplinary Integrative Medicine Research, Shanghai University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Shanghai. China
| | - Pei-Fang Song
- Institute of Interdisciplinary Integrative Medicine Research, Shanghai University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Shanghai. China
| | - Li-Wei Zou
- Institute of Interdisciplinary Integrative Medicine Research, Shanghai University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Shanghai. China
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8
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Assessment of reference genes at six different developmental stages of Schistosoma mansoni for quantitative RT-PCR. Sci Rep 2021; 11:16816. [PMID: 34413342 PMCID: PMC8376997 DOI: 10.1038/s41598-021-96055-7] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/06/2021] [Accepted: 07/31/2021] [Indexed: 12/13/2022] Open
Abstract
Reverse-transcription quantitative real-time polymerase chain reaction (RT-qPCR) is the most used, fast, and reproducible method to confirm large-scale gene expression data. The use of stable reference genes for the normalization of RT-qPCR assays is recognized worldwide. No systematic study for selecting appropriate reference genes for usage in RT-qPCR experiments comparing gene expression levels at different Schistosoma mansoni life-cycle stages has been performed. Most studies rely on genes commonly used in other organisms, such as actin, tubulin, and GAPDH. Therefore, the present study focused on identifying reference genes suitable for RT-qPCR assays across six S. mansoni developmental stages. The expression levels of 25 novel candidates that we selected based on the analysis of public RNA-Seq datasets, along with eight commonly used reference genes, were systematically tested by RT-qPCR across six developmental stages of S. mansoni (eggs, miracidia, cercariae, schistosomula, adult males and adult females). The stability of genes was evaluated with geNorm, NormFinder and RefFinder algorithms. The least stable candidate reference genes tested were actin, tubulin and GAPDH. The two most stable reference genes suitable for RT-qPCR normalization were Smp_101310 (Histone H4 transcription factor) and Smp_196510 (Ubiquitin recognition factor in ER-associated degradation protein 1). Performance of these two genes as normalizers was successfully evaluated with females maintained unpaired or paired to males in culture for 8 days, or with worm pairs exposed for 16 days to double-stranded RNAs to silence a protein-coding gene. This study provides reliable reference genes for RT-qPCR analysis using samples from six different S. mansoni life-cycle stages.
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9
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Ulrychová L, Ostašov P, Chanová M, Mareš M, Horn M, Dvořák J. Spatial expression pattern of serine proteases in the blood fluke Schistosoma mansoni determined by fluorescence RNA in situ hybridization. Parasit Vectors 2021; 14:274. [PMID: 34022917 PMCID: PMC8140508 DOI: 10.1186/s13071-021-04773-8] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/28/2021] [Accepted: 05/03/2021] [Indexed: 11/24/2022] Open
Abstract
Background The blood flukes of genus Schistosoma are the causative agent of schistosomiasis, a parasitic disease that infects more than 200 million people worldwide. Proteases of schistosomes are involved in critical steps of host–parasite interactions and are promising therapeutic targets. We recently identified and characterized a group of S1 family Schistosoma mansoni serine proteases, including SmSP1 to SmSP5. Expression levels of some SmSPs in S. mansoni are low, and by standard genome sequencing technologies they are marginally detectable at the method threshold levels. Here, we report their spatial gene expression patterns in adult S. mansoni by the high-sensitivity localization assay. Methodology Highly sensitive fluorescence in situ RNA hybridization (FISH) was modified and used for the localization of mRNAs encoding individual SmSP proteases (including low-expressed SmSPs) in tissues of adult worms. High sensitivity was obtained due to specifically prepared tissue and probes in combination with the employment of a signal amplification approach. The assay method was validated by detecting the expression patterns of a set of relevant reference genes including SmCB1, SmPOP, SmTSP-2, and Sm29 with localization formerly determined by other techniques. Results FISH analysis revealed interesting expression patterns of SmSPs distributed in multiple tissues of S. mansoni adults. The expression patterns of individual SmSPs were distinct but in part overlapping and were consistent with existing transcriptome sequencing data. The exception were genes with significantly low expression, which were also localized in tissues where they had not previously been detected by RNA sequencing methods. In general, SmSPs were found in various tissues including reproductive organs, parenchymal cells, esophagus, and the tegumental surface. Conclusions The FISH-based assay provided spatial information about the expression of five SmSPs in adult S. mansoni females and males. This highly sensitive method allowed visualization of low-abundantly expressed genes that are below the detection limits of standard in situ hybridization or by RNA sequencing. Thus, this technical approach turned out to be suitable for sensitive localization studies and may also be applicable for other trematodes. The results suggest that SmSPs may play roles in diverse processes of the parasite. Certain SmSPs expressed at the surface may be involved in host–parasite interactions. Graphic abstract ![]()
Supplementary Information The online version contains supplementary material available at 10.1186/s13071-021-04773-8.
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Affiliation(s)
- Lenka Ulrychová
- Institute of Organic Chemistry and Biochemistry, The Czech Academy of Sciences, Flemingovo n. 2, 16610, Prague, Czech Republic.,Department of Parasitology, Faculty of Science, Charles University, Viničná 7, 12844, Prague 2, Czech Republic
| | - Pavel Ostašov
- Biomedical Center, Faculty of Medicine in Pilsen, Charles University, Alej Svobody 1655/76, 32300, Pilsen, Czech Republic
| | - Marta Chanová
- Institute of Immunology and Microbiology, First Faculty of Medicine, Charles University and General University Hospital in Prague, Studničkova 2028/7, 12800, Prague, Czech Republic
| | - Michael Mareš
- Institute of Organic Chemistry and Biochemistry, The Czech Academy of Sciences, Flemingovo n. 2, 16610, Prague, Czech Republic
| | - Martin Horn
- Institute of Organic Chemistry and Biochemistry, The Czech Academy of Sciences, Flemingovo n. 2, 16610, Prague, Czech Republic.
| | - Jan Dvořák
- Department of Zoology and Fisheries, Centre of Infectious Animal Diseases, Faculty of Agrobiology, Food and Natural Resources, Czech University of Life Sciences in Prague, Kamýcká 129, 16500, Prague 6, Czech Republic.
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10
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Jílková A, Rubešová P, Fanfrlík J, Fajtová P, Řezáčová P, Brynda J, Lepšík M, Mertlíková-Kaiserová H, Emal CD, Renslo AR, Roush WR, Horn M, Caffrey CR, Mareš M. Druggable Hot Spots in the Schistosomiasis Cathepsin B1 Target Identified by Functional and Binding Mode Analysis of Potent Vinyl Sulfone Inhibitors. ACS Infect Dis 2021; 7:1077-1088. [PMID: 33175511 PMCID: PMC8154419 DOI: 10.1021/acsinfecdis.0c00501] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/29/2022]
Abstract
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Schistosomiasis, a parasitic disease
caused by blood flukes of
the genus Schistosoma, is a global health problem
with over 200 million people infected. Treatment relies on just one
drug, and new chemotherapies are needed. Schistosoma mansoni cathepsin B1 (SmCB1) is a critical peptidase for the digestion of
host blood proteins and a validated drug target. We screened a library
of peptidomimetic vinyl sulfones against SmCB1 and identified the
most potent SmCB1 inhibitors reported to date that are active in the
subnanomolar range with second order rate constants (k2nd) of ∼2 × 105 M–1 s–1. High resolution crystal structures of the
two best inhibitors in complex with SmCB1 were determined. Quantum
chemical calculations of their respective binding modes identified
critical hot spot interactions in the S1′ and S2 subsites.
The most potent inhibitor targets the S1′ subsite with an N-hydroxysulfonic amide moiety and displays favorable functional
properties, including bioactivity against the pathogen, selectivity
for SmCB1 over human cathepsin B, and reasonable metabolic stability.
Our results provide structural insights for the rational design of
next-generation SmCB1 inhibitors as potential drugs to treat schistosomiasis.
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Affiliation(s)
- Adéla Jílková
- Institute of Organic Chemistry and Biochemistry, Czech Academy of Sciences, Flemingovo n. 2, 16610 Prague, Czech Republic
| | - Petra Rubešová
- Institute of Organic Chemistry and Biochemistry, Czech Academy of Sciences, Flemingovo n. 2, 16610 Prague, Czech Republic
| | - Jindřich Fanfrlík
- Institute of Organic Chemistry and Biochemistry, Czech Academy of Sciences, Flemingovo n. 2, 16610 Prague, Czech Republic
| | - Pavla Fajtová
- Institute of Organic Chemistry and Biochemistry, Czech Academy of Sciences, Flemingovo n. 2, 16610 Prague, Czech Republic
| | - Pavlína Řezáčová
- Institute of Organic Chemistry and Biochemistry, Czech Academy of Sciences, Flemingovo n. 2, 16610 Prague, Czech Republic
| | - Jiří Brynda
- Institute of Organic Chemistry and Biochemistry, Czech Academy of Sciences, Flemingovo n. 2, 16610 Prague, Czech Republic
| | - Martin Lepšík
- Institute of Organic Chemistry and Biochemistry, Czech Academy of Sciences, Flemingovo n. 2, 16610 Prague, Czech Republic
| | - Helena Mertlíková-Kaiserová
- Institute of Organic Chemistry and Biochemistry, Czech Academy of Sciences, Flemingovo n. 2, 16610 Prague, Czech Republic
| | - Cory D. Emal
- Eastern Michigan University, 541 Mark Jefferson, Ypsilanti, Michigan 48197, United States
| | - Adam R. Renslo
- University of California San Francisco, 600 16th Street, San Francisco, California 94143, United States
| | - William R. Roush
- The Scripps Research Institute, 130 Scripps Way, Jupiter, Florida 33458, United States
| | - Martin Horn
- Institute of Organic Chemistry and Biochemistry, Czech Academy of Sciences, Flemingovo n. 2, 16610 Prague, Czech Republic
| | - Conor R. Caffrey
- Center for Discovery and Innovation in Parasitic Diseases, Skaggs School of Pharmacy and Pharmaceutical Sciences, University of California San Diego, 9500 Gilman Drive, La Jolla, California 92093, United States
| | - Michael Mareš
- Institute of Organic Chemistry and Biochemistry, Czech Academy of Sciences, Flemingovo n. 2, 16610 Prague, Czech Republic
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11
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Jílková A, Horn M, Fanfrlík J, Küppers J, Pachl P, Řezáčová P, Lepšík M, Fajtová P, Rubešová P, Chanová M, Caffrey CR, Gütschow M, Mareš M. Azanitrile Inhibitors of the SmCB1 Protease Target Are Lethal to Schistosoma mansoni: Structural and Mechanistic Insights into Chemotype Reactivity. ACS Infect Dis 2021; 7:189-201. [PMID: 33301315 PMCID: PMC7802074 DOI: 10.1021/acsinfecdis.0c00644] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/24/2022]
Abstract
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Azapeptide
nitriles are postulated to reversibly covalently react
with the active-site cysteine residue of cysteine proteases and form
isothiosemicarbazide adducts. We investigated the interaction of azadipeptide
nitriles with the cathepsin B1 drug target (SmCB1) from Schistosoma
mansoni, a pathogen that causes the global neglected disease
schistosomiasis. Azadipeptide nitriles were superior inhibitors of
SmCB1 over their parent carba analogs. We determined the crystal structure
of SmCB1 in complex with an azadipeptide nitrile and analyzed the
reaction mechanism using quantum chemical calculations. The data demonstrate
that azadipeptide nitriles, in contrast to their carba counterparts,
undergo a change from E- to Z-configuration
upon binding, which gives rise to a highly favorable energy profile
of noncovalent and covalent complex formation. Finally, azadipeptide
nitriles were considerably more lethal than their carba analogs against
the schistosome pathogen in culture, supporting the further development
of this chemotype as a treatment for schistosomiasis.
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Affiliation(s)
- Adéla Jílková
- Institute of Organic Chemistry and Biochemistry of the Czech Academy of Sciences, Flemingovo n. 2, 16610 Prague 6, Czech Republic
| | - Martin Horn
- Institute of Organic Chemistry and Biochemistry of the Czech Academy of Sciences, Flemingovo n. 2, 16610 Prague 6, Czech Republic
| | - Jindřich Fanfrlík
- Institute of Organic Chemistry and Biochemistry of the Czech Academy of Sciences, Flemingovo n. 2, 16610 Prague 6, Czech Republic
| | - Jim Küppers
- Pharmaceutical Institute, Pharmaceutical & Medicinal Chemistry, University of Bonn, An der Immenburg 4, 53121 Bonn, Germany
| | - Petr Pachl
- Institute of Organic Chemistry and Biochemistry of the Czech Academy of Sciences, Flemingovo n. 2, 16610 Prague 6, Czech Republic
| | - Pavlína Řezáčová
- Institute of Organic Chemistry and Biochemistry of the Czech Academy of Sciences, Flemingovo n. 2, 16610 Prague 6, Czech Republic
| | - Martin Lepšík
- Institute of Organic Chemistry and Biochemistry of the Czech Academy of Sciences, Flemingovo n. 2, 16610 Prague 6, Czech Republic
| | - Pavla Fajtová
- Institute of Organic Chemistry and Biochemistry of the Czech Academy of Sciences, Flemingovo n. 2, 16610 Prague 6, Czech Republic
| | - Petra Rubešová
- Institute of Organic Chemistry and Biochemistry of the Czech Academy of Sciences, Flemingovo n. 2, 16610 Prague 6, Czech Republic
| | - Marta Chanová
- Institute of Immunology and Microbiology, First Faculty of Medicine, Charles University and General University Hospital in Prague, Studničkova 2028/7, 12800 Prague 2, Czech Republic
| | - Conor R. Caffrey
- Center for Discovery and Innovation in Parasitic Diseases (CDIPD), Skaggs School of Pharmacy and Pharmaceutical Sciences, University of California San Diego, 9500 Gilman Drive, La Jolla, California 92093, United States
| | - Michael Gütschow
- Pharmaceutical Institute, Pharmaceutical & Medicinal Chemistry, University of Bonn, An der Immenburg 4, 53121 Bonn, Germany
| | - Michael Mareš
- Institute of Organic Chemistry and Biochemistry of the Czech Academy of Sciences, Flemingovo n. 2, 16610 Prague 6, Czech Republic
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12
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Kianifard L, Yakhchali M, Imani M. Serine proteases activity in miracidia of Fasciola hepatica and effects of chemical and herbal inhibitors. VETERINARY RESEARCH FORUM : AN INTERNATIONAL QUARTERLY JOURNAL 2021; 12:291-295. [PMID: 34815839 PMCID: PMC8576154 DOI: 10.30466/vrf.2019.99959.2387] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/19/2018] [Accepted: 05/21/2019] [Indexed: 11/15/2022]
Abstract
Fasciolosis is a zoonotic parasitic disease caused by the trematode Fasciola hepatica. The proteases are essential for the survival of parasites. The present study was aimed to determine serine proteases activities in miracidia of F. hepatica and evaluate the effects of pH and different inhibitors on the serine proteases activities. Adult F. hepatica helminths were removed from naturally infected livers of the slaughtered cattle and crushed. The eggs were incubated at 28.00 ˚C for 16 days. The released miracidia were homogenized and total proteolytic activity of the extract of miracidia at different pH values were evaluated. Serine proteases activities were determined using specific substrates. The inhibitory effects of chemical and herbal inhibitors on the enzymes were also assessed. The extract of miracidia hydrolyzed azocasein with optimum activity at pH 8.00. The optimum pH effect on serine proteases activities was found at alkaline pH. Phenylmethylsulfonyl fluoride and Bowman-Birk inhibitors inhibited and decreased the proteases activities in the miracidia extract. It was concluded that there were proteases activities in miracidia of F. hepatica which were inhibited by chemical and herbal inhibitors.
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Affiliation(s)
- Leila Kianifard
- PhD Candidate, Department of Pathobiology, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, Urmia University, Urmia, Iran;
| | - Mohammad Yakhchali
- Department of Pathobiology, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, Urmia University, Urmia, Iran; ,Correspondence Mohammad Yakhchali. DVM, PhD, Department of Pathobiology, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, Urmia University, Urmia, Iran . E-mail:
| | - Mehdi Imani
- Department of Basic Sciences, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, Urmia University, Urmia, Iran.
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13
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Bischofsberger M, Winkelmann F, Rabes A, Reisinger EC, Sombetzki M. Pathogen-host interaction mediated by vesicle-based secretion in schistosomes. PROTOPLASMA 2020; 257:1277-1287. [PMID: 32462473 PMCID: PMC7449993 DOI: 10.1007/s00709-020-01515-y] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/27/2020] [Accepted: 05/15/2020] [Indexed: 05/07/2023]
Abstract
As part of the parasite's excretory/secretory system, extracellular vesicles (EVs) represent a potent communication tool of schistosomes with their human host to strike the balance between their own survival in a hostile immunological environment and a minimal damage to the host tissue. Their cargo consists of functional proteins, lipids, and nucleic acids that facilitate biological processes like migration, nutrient acquisition, or reproduction. The most important impact of the vesicle-mediated communication, however, is the promotion of the parasite survival via mimicking host protein function and directly or indirectly modulating the immune response of the host. Overcoming this shield of immunological adaption in the schistosome-host relation is the aim of current research activities in this field and crucial for the development of a reliable anti-schistosomal therapy. Not least because of their prospective use in clinical applications, research on EVs is now a rapidly expanding field. We herein focus on the current state of knowledge of vesicle-based communication of schistosomes and discussing the role of EVs in facilitating biological processes and immune modulatory properties of EVs considering the different life stages of the parasite.
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Affiliation(s)
- Miriam Bischofsberger
- Department of Tropical Medicine, Infectious Diseases and Section of Nephrology, University Medical Center Rostock, Rostock, Germany
| | - Franziska Winkelmann
- Department of Tropical Medicine, Infectious Diseases and Section of Nephrology, University Medical Center Rostock, Rostock, Germany
| | - Anne Rabes
- Department of Tropical Medicine, Infectious Diseases and Section of Nephrology, University Medical Center Rostock, Rostock, Germany
| | - Emil C Reisinger
- Department of Tropical Medicine, Infectious Diseases and Section of Nephrology, University Medical Center Rostock, Rostock, Germany
| | - Martina Sombetzki
- Department of Tropical Medicine, Infectious Diseases and Section of Nephrology, University Medical Center Rostock, Rostock, Germany.
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14
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Lasse C, Azevedo CS, de Araújo CN, Motta FN, Andrade MA, Rocha AP, Sampaio I, Charneau S, Gèze M, Grellier P, Santana JM, Bastos IMD. Prolyl Oligopeptidase From Leishmania infantum: Biochemical Characterization and Involvement in Macrophage Infection. Front Microbiol 2020; 11:1060. [PMID: 32547514 PMCID: PMC7271538 DOI: 10.3389/fmicb.2020.01060] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/31/2020] [Accepted: 04/29/2020] [Indexed: 11/13/2022] Open
Abstract
Leishmania infantum is a flagellated protozoan and one of the main causative agents of visceral leishmaniasis. This disease usually affects the human reticuloendothelial system, can cause death and available therapies may lead to serious side effects. Since it is a neglected tropical disease, the incentives for the development of new drugs are insufficient. It is important to know Leishmania virulence factors that contribute most to the disease in order to develop drugs. In the present work, we have produced L. infantum prolyl oligopeptidase (rPOPLi) in Escherichia coli, and investigated its biochemical properties as well as the effect of POP inhibitors on its enzymatic activity and on the inhibition of the macrophage infection by L. infantum. The optimal activity occurred at pH 7.5 and 37°C in the presence of DTT, the latter increased rPOPLi catalytic efficiency 5-fold on the substrate N-Suc-Gly-Pro-Leu-Gly-Pro-AMC. The enzyme was inhibited by TPCK, TLCK and by two POP specific inhibitors, Z-Pro-prolinal (ZPP, IC50 4.2 nM) and S17092 (IC50 3.5 nM). Besides being a cytoplasmic enzyme, POPLi is also found in punctuate structures within the parasite cytoplasm or associated with the parasite plasma membrane in amastigotes and promastigotes, respectively. Interestingly, S17092 and ZPP prevented parasite invasion in murine macrophages, supporting the involvement of POPLi in the invasive process of L. infantum. These data suggest POPLi as a virulence factor that offers potential as a target for designing new antileishmanial drugs.
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Affiliation(s)
- Camila Lasse
- Pathogen-Host Interface Laboratory, Department of Cell Biology, University of Brasília, Brasília, Brazil
| | - Clênia S Azevedo
- Pathogen-Host Interface Laboratory, Department of Cell Biology, University of Brasília, Brasília, Brazil.,UMR 7245 MCAM, Musèum National d'Histoire Naturelle, Centre National de la Recherche Scientifique, Paris, France
| | - Carla N de Araújo
- Pathogen-Host Interface Laboratory, Department of Cell Biology, University of Brasília, Brasília, Brazil.,Faculty of Ceilandia, University of Brasília, Brasília, Brazil
| | - Flávia N Motta
- Pathogen-Host Interface Laboratory, Department of Cell Biology, University of Brasília, Brasília, Brazil.,Faculty of Ceilandia, University of Brasília, Brasília, Brazil
| | - Milene A Andrade
- Pathogen-Host Interface Laboratory, Department of Cell Biology, University of Brasília, Brasília, Brazil.,UMR 7245 MCAM, Musèum National d'Histoire Naturelle, Centre National de la Recherche Scientifique, Paris, France
| | - Amanda Pereira Rocha
- Pathogen-Host Interface Laboratory, Department of Cell Biology, University of Brasília, Brasília, Brazil
| | - Iracyara Sampaio
- Pathogen-Host Interface Laboratory, Department of Cell Biology, University of Brasília, Brasília, Brazil
| | - Sébastien Charneau
- Laboratory of Protein Chemistry and Biochemistry, Department of Cell Biology, University of Brasília, Brasília, Brazil
| | - Marc Gèze
- UMR 7245 MCAM, Musèum National d'Histoire Naturelle, Centre National de la Recherche Scientifique, Paris, France.,CeMIM, Musèum National d'Histoire Naturelle, Paris, France
| | - Philippe Grellier
- UMR 7245 MCAM, Musèum National d'Histoire Naturelle, Centre National de la Recherche Scientifique, Paris, France
| | - Jaime M Santana
- Pathogen-Host Interface Laboratory, Department of Cell Biology, University of Brasília, Brasília, Brazil
| | - Izabela M D Bastos
- Pathogen-Host Interface Laboratory, Department of Cell Biology, University of Brasília, Brasília, Brazil
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15
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Roudnický P, Potěšil D, Zdráhal Z, Gelnar M, Kašný M. Laser capture microdissection in combination with mass spectrometry: Approach to characterization of tissue-specific proteomes of Eudiplozoon nipponicum (Monogenea, Polyopisthocotylea). PLoS One 2020; 15:e0231681. [PMID: 32555742 PMCID: PMC7299319 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pone.0231681] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/27/2020] [Accepted: 05/25/2020] [Indexed: 12/14/2022] Open
Abstract
Eudiplozoon nipponicum (Goto, 1891) is a hematophagous monogenean ectoparasite which inhabits the gills of the common carp (Cyprinus carpio). Heavy infestation can lead to anemia and in conjunction with secondary bacterial infections cause poor health and eventual death of the host. This study is based on an innovative approach to protein localization which has never been used in parasitology before. Using laser capture microdissection, we dissected particular areas of the parasite body without contaminating the samples by surrounding tissue and in combination with analysis by mass spectrometry obtained tissue-specific proteomes of tegument, intestine, and parenchyma of our model organism, E. nipponicum. We successfully verified the presence of certain functional proteins (e.g. cathepsin L) in tissues where their presence was expected (intestine) and confirmed that there were no traces of these proteins in other tissues (tegument and parenchyma). Additionally, we identified a total of 2,059 proteins, including 72 peptidases and 33 peptidase inhibitors. As expected, the greatest variety was found in the intestine and the lowest variety in the parenchyma. Our results are significant on two levels. Firstly, we demonstrated that one can localize all proteins in one analysis and without using laboratory animals (antibodies for immunolocalization of single proteins). Secondly, this study offers the first complex proteomic data on not only the E. nipponicum but within the whole class of Monogenea, which was from this point of view until recently neglected.
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Affiliation(s)
- Pavel Roudnický
- Department of Botany and Zoology, Faculty of Science, Masaryk University, Brno, Czech Republic
- * E-mail:
| | - David Potěšil
- Central European Institute of Technology, Masaryk University, Brno, Czech Republic
| | - Zbyněk Zdráhal
- Central European Institute of Technology, Masaryk University, Brno, Czech Republic
- National Centre for Biomolecular Research, Faculty of Science, Masaryk University, Brno, Czech Republic
| | - Milan Gelnar
- Department of Botany and Zoology, Faculty of Science, Masaryk University, Brno, Czech Republic
| | - Martin Kašný
- Department of Botany and Zoology, Faculty of Science, Masaryk University, Brno, Czech Republic
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16
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Horn M, Zbodakova O, Kasparek P, Srp J, Haneckova R, Hradilek M, Mares M, Sedlacek R. Profiling system for skin kallikrein proteolysis applied in gene-deficient mouse models. Biol Chem 2019; 399:1085-1089. [PMID: 29885275 DOI: 10.1515/hsz-2018-0116] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/12/2018] [Accepted: 05/14/2018] [Indexed: 12/22/2022]
Abstract
Kallikrein-related proteases (KLKs) play a critical role in epidermis physiology and have been implicated in skin pathologies such as Netherton syndrome. The contribution of individual KLKs to skin proteolysis is poorly understood. Monitoring of their activities in skin proteome is hampered by overlapping substrate specificities, and there is a need for novel assays. Here, we present a platform of selective and sensitive fluorogenic substrates and inhibitors for profiling KLK5, KLK7 and KLK14. These chemical tools were evaluated using recombinant KLKs and tissue from a unique set of mice deficient in eight combinations of KLKs and their natural regulator LEKTI.
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Affiliation(s)
- Martin Horn
- Institute of Organic Chemistry and Biochemistry, The Czech Academy of Sciences, Flemingovo n. 2, 166 10 Prague, Czech Republic
| | - Olga Zbodakova
- Laboratory of Transgenic Models of Diseases, Institute of Molecular Genetics of the ASCR, Prumyslova 595, 252 50 Vestec, Czech Republic
| | - Petr Kasparek
- Laboratory of Transgenic Models of Diseases, Institute of Molecular Genetics of the ASCR, Prumyslova 595, 252 50 Vestec, Czech Republic.,Czech Centre for Phenogenomics, Institute of Molecular Genetics of the ASCR, Prumyslova 595, 252 50 Vestec, Czech Republic
| | - Jaroslav Srp
- Institute of Organic Chemistry and Biochemistry, The Czech Academy of Sciences, Flemingovo n. 2, 166 10 Prague, Czech Republic.,Department of Biochemistry, Faculty of Science, Charles University, Hlavova 2030/8, 128 00 Prague, Czech Republic
| | - Radka Haneckova
- Laboratory of Transgenic Models of Diseases, Institute of Molecular Genetics of the ASCR, Prumyslova 595, 252 50 Vestec, Czech Republic
| | - Martin Hradilek
- Institute of Organic Chemistry and Biochemistry, The Czech Academy of Sciences, Flemingovo n. 2, 166 10 Prague, Czech Republic
| | - Michael Mares
- Institute of Organic Chemistry and Biochemistry, The Czech Academy of Sciences, Flemingovo n. 2, 166 10 Prague, Czech Republic
| | - Radislav Sedlacek
- Laboratory of Transgenic Models of Diseases, Institute of Molecular Genetics of the ASCR, Prumyslova 595, 252 50 Vestec, Czech Republic.,Czech Centre for Phenogenomics, Institute of Molecular Genetics of the ASCR, Prumyslova 595, 252 50 Vestec, Czech Republic
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17
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Costain AH, MacDonald AS, Smits HH. Schistosome Egg Migration: Mechanisms, Pathogenesis and Host Immune Responses. Front Immunol 2018; 9:3042. [PMID: 30619372 PMCID: PMC6306409 DOI: 10.3389/fimmu.2018.03042] [Citation(s) in RCA: 110] [Impact Index Per Article: 18.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/13/2018] [Accepted: 12/10/2018] [Indexed: 12/22/2022] Open
Abstract
Many parasitic worms possess complex and intriguing life cycles, and schistosomes are no exception. To exit the human body and progress to their successive snail host, Schistosoma mansoni eggs must migrate from the mesenteric vessels, across the intestinal wall and into the feces. This process is complex and not always successful. A vast proportion of eggs fail to leave their definite host, instead becoming lodged within intestinal or hepatic tissue, where they can evoke potentially life-threatening pathology. Thus, to maximize the likelihood of successful egg passage whilst minimizing host pathology, intriguing egg exit strategies have evolved. Notably, schistosomes actively exert counter-inflammatory influences on the host immune system, discreetly compromise endothelial and epithelial barriers, and modulate granuloma formation around transiting eggs, which is instrumental to their migration. In this review, we discuss new developments in our understanding of schistosome egg migration, with an emphasis on S. mansoni and the intestine, and outline the host-parasite interactions that are thought to make this process possible. In addition, we explore the potential immune implications of egg penetration and discuss the long-term consequences for the host of unsuccessful egg transit, such as fibrosis, co-infection and cancer development.
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Affiliation(s)
- Alice H. Costain
- Department of Parasitology, Leiden University Medical Center, Leiden, Netherlands
- Lydia Becker Institute of Immunology and Inflammation, University of Manchester, Manchester, United Kingdom
| | - Andrew S. MacDonald
- Lydia Becker Institute of Immunology and Inflammation, University of Manchester, Manchester, United Kingdom
| | - Hermelijn H. Smits
- Department of Parasitology, Leiden University Medical Center, Leiden, Netherlands
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18
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Abstract
Schistosomiasis (bilharzia) is a neglected tropical disease caused by parasitic flatworms (blood flukes) of the genus Schistosoma, with considerable morbidity in parts of the Middle East, South America, Southeast Asia and, particularly, in sub-Saharan Africa. Infective larvae grow in an intermediate host (fresh-water snails) before penetrating the skin of the definitive human host. Mature adult worms reside in the mesenteric (Schistosoma mansoni and Schistosoma japonicum) or pelvic (Schistosoma haematobium) veins, where female worms lay eggs, which are secreted in stool or urine. Eggs trapped in the surrounding tissues and organs, such as the liver and bladder, cause inflammatory immune responses (including granulomas) that result in intestinal, hepato-splenic or urogenital disease. Diagnosis requires the detection of eggs in excreta or worm antigens in the serum, and sensitive, rapid, point-of-care tests for populations living in endemic areas are needed. The anti-schistosomal drug praziquantel is safe and efficacious against adult worms of all the six Schistosoma spp. infecting humans; however, it does not prevent reinfection and the emergence of drug resistance is a concern. Schistosomiasis elimination will require a multifaceted approach, including: treatment; snail control; information, education and communication; improved water, sanitation and hygiene; accurate diagnostics; and surveillance-response systems that are readily tailored to social-ecological settings.
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Affiliation(s)
- Donald P McManus
- Immunology Department, QIMR Berghofer Medical Research Institute, Herston, Brisbane, Queensland, Australia.
| | - David W Dunne
- Department of Pathology, University of Cambridge, Cambridge, UK
| | - Moussa Sacko
- Department of Diagnostic and Biomedical Research, Institut National de Recherche en Santé Publique, Bamako, Mali
| | - Jürg Utzinger
- Swiss Tropical and Public Health Institute, Basel, Switzerland.,University of Basel, Basel, Switzerland
| | - Birgitte J Vennervald
- Department of Veterinary and Animal Science, University of Copenhagen, Copenhagen, Denmark
| | - Xiao-Nong Zhou
- National Institute of Parasitic Diseases, Shanghai, People's Republic of China
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19
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Leontovyč A, Ulrychová L, O’Donoghue AJ, Vondrášek J, Marešová L, Hubálek M, Fajtová P, Chanová M, Jiang Z, Craik CS, Caffrey CR, Mareš M, Dvořák J, Horn M. SmSP2: A serine protease secreted by the blood fluke pathogen Schistosoma mansoni with anti-hemostatic properties. PLoS Negl Trop Dis 2018; 12:e0006446. [PMID: 29677188 PMCID: PMC5931690 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pntd.0006446] [Citation(s) in RCA: 19] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/13/2017] [Revised: 05/02/2018] [Accepted: 04/11/2018] [Indexed: 12/14/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Serine proteases are important virulence factors for many pathogens. Recently, we discovered a group of trypsin-like serine proteases with domain organization unique to flatworm parasites and containing a thrombospondin type 1 repeat (TSR-1). These proteases are recognized as antigens during host infection and may prove useful as anthelminthic vaccines, however their molecular characteristics are under-studied. Here, we characterize the structural and proteolytic attributes of serine protease 2 (SmSP2) from Schistosoma mansoni, one of the major species responsible for the tropical infectious disease, schistosomiasis. METHODOLOGY/PRINCIPAL FINDINGS SmSP2 comprises three domains: a histidine stretch, TSR-1 and a serine protease domain. The cleavage specificity of recombinant SmSP2 was determined using positional scanning and multiplex combinatorial libraries and the determinants of specificity were identified with 3D homology models, demonstrating a trypsin-like endopeptidase mode of action. SmSP2 displayed restricted proteolysis on protein substrates. It activated tissue plasminogen activator and plasminogen as key components of the fibrinolytic system, and released the vasoregulatory peptide, kinin, from kininogen. SmSP2 was detected in the surface tegument, esophageal glands and reproductive organs of the adult parasite by immunofluorescence microscopy, and in the excretory/secretory products by immunoblotting. CONCLUSIONS/SIGNIFICANCE The data suggest that SmSP2 is secreted, functions at the host-parasite interface and contributes to the survival of the parasite by manipulating host vasodilatation and fibrinolysis. SmSP2 may be, therefore, a potential target for anti-schistosomal therapy.
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Affiliation(s)
- Adrian Leontovyč
- Institute of Organic Chemistry and Biochemistry, The Czech Academy of Sciences, Prague, Czech Republic
- First Faculty of Medicine, Charles University, Prague, Czech Republic
| | - Lenka Ulrychová
- Institute of Organic Chemistry and Biochemistry, The Czech Academy of Sciences, Prague, Czech Republic
- Department of Parasitology, Faculty of Science, Charles University, Prague, Czech Republic
| | - Anthony J. O’Donoghue
- Center for Discovery and Innovation in Parasitic Diseases, Skaggs School of Pharmacy and Pharmaceutical Sciences, University of California San Diego, La Jolla, CA, United States of America
| | - Jiří Vondrášek
- Institute of Organic Chemistry and Biochemistry, The Czech Academy of Sciences, Prague, Czech Republic
| | - Lucie Marešová
- Institute of Organic Chemistry and Biochemistry, The Czech Academy of Sciences, Prague, Czech Republic
| | - Martin Hubálek
- Institute of Organic Chemistry and Biochemistry, The Czech Academy of Sciences, Prague, Czech Republic
| | - Pavla Fajtová
- Institute of Organic Chemistry and Biochemistry, The Czech Academy of Sciences, Prague, Czech Republic
- First Faculty of Medicine, Charles University, Prague, Czech Republic
| | - Marta Chanová
- Institute of Immunology and Microbiology, First Faculty of Medicine, Charles University and General University Hospital in Prague, Prague, Czech Republic
| | - Zhenze Jiang
- Center for Discovery and Innovation in Parasitic Diseases, Skaggs School of Pharmacy and Pharmaceutical Sciences, University of California San Diego, La Jolla, CA, United States of America
| | - Charles S. Craik
- Department of Pharmaceutical Chemistry, University of California San Francisco, San Francisco, CA, United States of America
| | - Conor R. Caffrey
- Center for Discovery and Innovation in Parasitic Diseases, Skaggs School of Pharmacy and Pharmaceutical Sciences, University of California San Diego, La Jolla, CA, United States of America
| | - Michael Mareš
- Institute of Organic Chemistry and Biochemistry, The Czech Academy of Sciences, Prague, Czech Republic
| | - Jan Dvořák
- Institute of Organic Chemistry and Biochemistry, The Czech Academy of Sciences, Prague, Czech Republic
- Department of Zoology and Fisheries, Faculty of Agrobiology, Food and Natural Resources, Czech University of Life Sciences Prague, Prague, Czech Republic
- * E-mail: (MH); (JD)
| | - Martin Horn
- Institute of Organic Chemistry and Biochemistry, The Czech Academy of Sciences, Prague, Czech Republic
- * E-mail: (MH); (JD)
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Tokai S, Bito T, Shimizu K, Arima J. Methionine residues lining the substrate pathway in prolyl oligopeptidase from Pleurotus eryngii play an important role in substrate recognition. Biosci Biotechnol Biochem 2018; 82:1107-1115. [PMID: 29623768 DOI: 10.1080/09168451.2018.1459177] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/17/2022]
Abstract
Family S9 prolyl oligopeptidases (POPs) are of interest as pharmacological targets. We recently found that an S9 POP from Pleurotus eryngii showed altered substrate specificity following H2O2 treatment. Oxidation of Met203 on the non-catalytic β-propeller domain resulted in decreased activity toward non-aromatic aminoacyl-para-nitroanilides (pNAs) while maintaining its activity toward aromatic aminoacyl-pNAs. Given that the other Met residues should also be oxidized by H2O2 treatment, we constructed mutants in which all the Met residues were substituted with other amino acids. Analysis of the mutants showed that Met570 in the catalytic domain is another potent residue for the altered substrate specificity following oxidation. Met203 and Met570 lie on the surfaces of two different domains and form part of a funnel from the surface to the active center. Our findings indicate that the funnel forms the substrate pathway and plays a role in substrate recognition.
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Affiliation(s)
- Shota Tokai
- a The United Graduate School of Agricultural Sciences , Tottori University , Tottori , Japan
| | - Tomohiro Bito
- b Faculty of Agriculture, Department of Agricultural, Biological and Environmental Sciences , Tottori University , Tottori , Japan
| | - Katsuhiko Shimizu
- c Organization for Regional Industrial Academic Cooperation, Tottori University , Tottori , Japan
| | - Jiro Arima
- b Faculty of Agriculture, Department of Agricultural, Biological and Environmental Sciences , Tottori University , Tottori , Japan
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The blood fluke Schistosoma mansoni cleaves the coagulation protein high molecular weight kininogen (HK) but does not generate the vasodilator bradykinin. Parasit Vectors 2018. [PMID: 29540224 PMCID: PMC5853081 DOI: 10.1186/s13071-018-2704-0] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/19/2023] Open
Abstract
Background Schistosomes are blood dwelling parasitic worms that cause the debilitating disease schistosomiasis. Here we examined the influence of the parasites on their external environment by monitoring the impact of adult Schistosoma mansoni worms on the murine plasma proteome in vitro and, in particular, on how the worms affect the blood coagulation protein high molecular weight kininogen (HK). Methods Following the incubation of adult schistosomes in murine plasma, two-dimensional differential in-gel electrophoresis (2D-DIGE) was conducted to look for changes in the plasma proteome compared with control plasma. A major change to the blood protein kininogen (HK) was observed, and the interaction of Schistosoma mansoni parasite with this protein alone was then investigated by western blot analysis and activity assays. Finally, the generation of bradykinin from HK was monitored using a bradykinin detection kit. Results The most striking change to the plasma proteome concerned HK; while the full-length protein was more abundant in control plasma, carboxyl-terminal truncated forms were more abundant in plasma that contained schistosomes. Incubating parasites in buffer with pure HK followed by Western blot analysis confirmed that human HK is degraded by the worms. The resulting digestion pattern differed from that brought about by kallikrein, a host serine protease that normally acts on HK to release the vasodilator bradykinin. We found that live schistosomes, while digesting HK, do not generate bradykinin nor do they cleave a chromogenic kallikrein substrate. Since the cleavage of HK by the worms is not impeded by the serine protease inhibitor PMSF but is blocked by the cysteine protease inhibitor E64c, we hypothesize that schistosome tegumental cysteine proteases are responsible for HK cleavage. Conclusions Since proteomic and biochemical studies have revealed that the schistosome tegument contains two cysteine proteases belonging to the calpain family (SmCalp1 and SmCalp2) we conclude that these are likely responsible for the HK cleavage reported here. Schistosome cleavage of HK should help impede blood clotting and inflammation around the worms in vivo and so promote their ease of movement within the vasculature of their hosts. Electronic supplementary material The online version of this article (10.1186/s13071-018-2704-0) contains supplementary material, which is available to authorized users.
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Dvorak J, Horn M. Serine proteases in schistosomes and other trematodes. Int J Parasitol 2018; 48:333-344. [PMID: 29477711 DOI: 10.1016/j.ijpara.2018.01.001] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/08/2017] [Revised: 01/19/2018] [Accepted: 01/25/2018] [Indexed: 02/04/2023]
Abstract
Trematodes, also known as flukes, are phylogenetically ancient parasitic organisms. Due to their importance as human and veterinary parasites, their proteins have been investigated extensively as drug and vaccine targets. Among those, proteases, as crucial enzymes for parasite survival, are considered candidate molecules for anti-parasitic interventions. Surprisingly however, trematode serine proteases, in comparison with other groups of proteases, are largely neglected. Genes encoding serine proteases have been identified in trematode genomes in significant abundance, but the biological roles and biochemical functions of these proteases are poorly understood. However, increasing volumes of genomic and proteomic studies, and accumulated experimental evidence, indicate that this class of proteases plays a substantial role in host-parasite interactions and parasite survival. Here, we discuss in detail serine proteases at genomic and protein levels, and their known or hypothetical functions.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jan Dvorak
- Department of Zoology and Fisheries, Faculty of Agrobiology, Food and Natural Resources, Czech University of Life Sciences in Prague, Kamycka 129, Prague CZ 165 21, Czech Republic.
| | - Martin Horn
- Institute of Organic Chemistry and Biochemistry, The Czech Academy of Sciences, Prague CZ 166 10, Czech Republic.
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Vesicle-based secretion in schistosomes: Analysis of protein and microRNA (miRNA) content of exosome-like vesicles derived from Schistosoma mansoni. Sci Rep 2018; 8:3286. [PMID: 29459722 PMCID: PMC5818524 DOI: 10.1038/s41598-018-21587-4] [Citation(s) in RCA: 94] [Impact Index Per Article: 15.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/06/2017] [Accepted: 02/07/2018] [Indexed: 01/16/2023] Open
Abstract
Exosomes are small vesicles of endocytic origin, which are released into the extracellular environment and mediate a variety of physiological and pathological conditions. Here we show that Schistosoma mansoni releases exosome-like vesicles in vitro. Vesicles were purified from culture medium by sucrose gradient fractionation and fractions containing vesicles verified by western blot analyses and electron microscopy. Proteomic analyses of exosomal contents unveiled 130 schistosome proteins. Among these proteins are common exosomal markers such as heat shock proteins, energy-generating enzymes, cytoskeletal proteins, and others. In addition, the schistosome extracellular vesicles contain proteins of potential importance for host-parasite interaction, notably peptidases, signaling proteins, cell adhesion proteins (e.g., integrins) and previously described vaccine candidates, including glutathione-S-transferase (GST), tetraspanin (TSP-2) and calpain. S. mansoni exosomes also contain 143 microRNAs (miRNA), of which 25 are present at high levels, including miRNAs detected in sera of infected hosts. Quantitative PCR analysis confirmed the presence of schistosome-derived miRNAs in exosomes purified from infected mouse sera. The results provide evidence of vesicle-mediated secretion in these parasites and suggest that schistosome-derived exosomes could play important roles in host-parasite interactions and could be a useful tool in the development of vaccines and therapeutics.
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Portugal B, Motta FN, Correa AF, Nolasco DO, de Almeida H, Magalhães KG, Atta ALV, Vieira FD, Bastos IMD, Santana JM. Mycobacterium tuberculosis Prolyl Oligopeptidase Induces In vitro Secretion of Proinflammatory Cytokines by Peritoneal Macrophages. Front Microbiol 2017; 8:155. [PMID: 28223969 PMCID: PMC5293833 DOI: 10.3389/fmicb.2017.00155] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/07/2016] [Accepted: 01/20/2017] [Indexed: 11/13/2022] Open
Abstract
Tuberculosis (TB) is a disease that leads to death over 1 million people per year worldwide and the biological mediators of this pathology are poorly established, preventing the implementation of effective therapies to improve outcomes in TB. Host-bacterium interaction is a key step to TB establishment and the proteases produced by these microorganisms seem to facilitate bacteria invasion, migration and host immune response evasion. We presented, for the first time, the identification, biochemical characterization, molecular dynamics (MDs) and immunomodulatory properties of a prolyl oligopeptidase (POP) from Mycobacterium tuberculosis (POPMt). POP is a serine protease that hydrolyzes substrates with high specificity for proline residues and has already been characterized as virulence factor in infectious diseases. POPMt reveals catalytic activity upon N-Suc-Gly-Pro-Leu-Gly-Pro-AMC, a recognized POP substrate, with optimal activity at pH 7.5 and 37°C. The enzyme presents KM and Kcat/KM values of 108 μM and 21.838 mM-1 s-1, respectively. MDs showed that POPMt structure is similar to that of others POPs, which consists of a cylindrical architecture divided into an α/β hydrolase catalytic domain and a β-propeller domain. Finally, POPMt was capable of triggering in vitro secretion of proinflammatory cytokines by peritoneal macrophages, an event dependent on POPMt intact structure. Our data suggests that POPMt may contribute to an inflammatory response during M. tuberculosis infection.
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Affiliation(s)
- Brina Portugal
- Pathogen-Host Interface Laboratory, Department of Cell Biology, The University of Brasília, Brasília Brazil
| | - Flávia N Motta
- Pathogen-Host Interface Laboratory, Department of Cell Biology, The University of Brasília, BrasíliaBrazil; Instituto de Patologia Tropical e Saúde Pública, Universidade Federal de GoiásGoiânia, Brazil
| | - Andre F Correa
- Pathogen-Host Interface Laboratory, Department of Cell Biology, The University of Brasília, BrasíliaBrazil; Instituto de Patologia Tropical e Saúde Pública, Universidade Federal de GoiásGoiânia, Brazil
| | - Diego O Nolasco
- Physics Course and Postgraduate Program in Genomic Sciences and Biotechnology, Catholic University of Brasília Brasília, Brazil
| | - Hugo de Almeida
- Pathogen-Host Interface Laboratory, Department of Cell Biology, The University of Brasília, Brasília Brazil
| | - Kelly G Magalhães
- Laboratory of Immunology and Inflammation, Department of Cell Biology, The University of Brasília Brasília, Brazil
| | - Ana L V Atta
- Laboratório Central de Saúde Pública do Distrito Federal Brasília, Brazil
| | - Francisco D Vieira
- Laboratório Central de Saúde Pública do Distrito Federal Brasília, Brazil
| | - Izabela M D Bastos
- Pathogen-Host Interface Laboratory, Department of Cell Biology, The University of Brasília, Brasília Brazil
| | - Jaime M Santana
- Pathogen-Host Interface Laboratory, Department of Cell Biology, The University of Brasília, Brasília Brazil
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Srp J, Nussbaumerová M, Horn M, Mareš M. Digestive proteolysis in the Colorado potato beetle, Leptinotarsa decemlineata: Activity-based profiling and imaging of a multipeptidase network. INSECT BIOCHEMISTRY AND MOLECULAR BIOLOGY 2016; 78:1-11. [PMID: 27539253 DOI: 10.1016/j.ibmb.2016.08.004] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/10/2016] [Revised: 08/11/2016] [Accepted: 08/12/2016] [Indexed: 06/06/2023]
Abstract
The Colorado potato beetle (CPB), Leptinotarsa decemlineata, is a major pest of potato plants, and its digestive system is a promising target for development of pest control strategies. This work focuses on functional proteomic analysis of the digestive proteolytic enzymes expressed in the CPB gut. We identified a set of peptidases using imaging with specific activity-based probes and activity profiling with selective substrates and inhibitors. The secreted luminal peptidases were classified as: (i) endopeptidases of cathepsin D, cathepsin L, and trypsin types and (ii) exopeptidases with aminopeptidase (cathepsin H), carboxypeptidase (serine carboxypeptidase, prolyl carboxypeptidase), and carboxydipeptidase (cathepsin B) activities. The proteolytic arsenal also includes non-luminal peptidases with prolyl oligopeptidase and metalloaminopeptidase activities. Our results indicate that the CPB gut employs a multienzyme network of peptidases with complementary specificities to efficiently degrade ingested proteins. This proteolytic system functions in both CPB larvae and adults and is controlled mainly by cysteine and aspartic peptidases and supported by serine and metallopeptidases. The component enzymes identified here are potential targets for inhibitors with tailored specificities that could be engineered into potato plants to confer resistance to CPB.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jaroslav Srp
- Institute of Organic Chemistry and Biochemistry, Academy of Sciences of the Czech Republic, Flemingovo nam. 2, Prague 166 10, Czech Republic; Department of Biochemistry, Faculty of Science, Charles University, Hlavova 8, Prague 128 40, Czech Republic
| | - Martina Nussbaumerová
- Institute of Organic Chemistry and Biochemistry, Academy of Sciences of the Czech Republic, Flemingovo nam. 2, Prague 166 10, Czech Republic
| | - Martin Horn
- Institute of Organic Chemistry and Biochemistry, Academy of Sciences of the Czech Republic, Flemingovo nam. 2, Prague 166 10, Czech Republic
| | - Michael Mareš
- Institute of Organic Chemistry and Biochemistry, Academy of Sciences of the Czech Republic, Flemingovo nam. 2, Prague 166 10, Czech Republic.
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The genome ofStrongyloidesspp. gives insights into protein families with a putative role in nematode parasitism. Parasitology 2016; 144:343-358. [DOI: 10.1017/s0031182016001554] [Citation(s) in RCA: 21] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/05/2023]
Abstract
SUMMARYParasitic nematodes are important and abundant parasites adapted to live a parasitic lifestyle, with these adaptations all aimed at facilitating their survival and reproduction in their hosts. The recently sequenced genomes of fourStrongyloidesspecies, gastrointestinal parasites of humans and other animals, alongside transcriptomic and proteomic analysis of free-living and parasitic stages of their life cycles have revealed a number of protein families with a putative role in their parasitism. Many of these protein families have also been associated with parasitism in other parasitic nematode species, suggesting that these proteins may play a fundamental role in nematode parasitism more generally. Here, we review key protein families that have a putative role inStrongyloides’ parasitism – acetylcholinesterases, astacins, aspartic proteases, prolyl oligopeptidases, proteinase inhibitors (trypsin inhibitors and cystatins), SCP/TAPS and transthyretin-like proteins – and the evidence for their key, yet diverse, roles in the parasitic lifestyle.
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27
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Discovery of Novel Antischistosomal Agents by Molecular Modeling Approaches. Trends Parasitol 2016; 32:874-886. [PMID: 27593339 DOI: 10.1016/j.pt.2016.08.002] [Citation(s) in RCA: 39] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/28/2016] [Revised: 06/20/2016] [Accepted: 08/05/2016] [Indexed: 02/07/2023]
Abstract
Schistosomiasis, a chronic neglected tropical disease caused by Schistosoma worms, is reported in nearly 80 countries. Although the disease affects approximately 260 million people, the treatment relies exclusively on praziquantel, a drug discovered in the mid-1970s that lacks efficacy against the larval stages of the parasite. In addition, the dependence on a single treatment has raised concerns about drug resistance, and reduced susceptibility has already been found in laboratory and field isolates. Therefore, novel therapies for schistosomiasis are needed, and several approaches have been used to that end. One of these strategies, molecular modeling, has been increasingly integrated with experimental techniques, resulting in the discovery of novel antischistosomal agents.
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Bais S, Greenberg RM. TRP channels in schistosomes. INTERNATIONAL JOURNAL FOR PARASITOLOGY-DRUGS AND DRUG RESISTANCE 2016; 6:335-342. [PMID: 27496302 PMCID: PMC5196486 DOI: 10.1016/j.ijpddr.2016.07.002] [Citation(s) in RCA: 24] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/12/2016] [Revised: 07/13/2016] [Accepted: 07/17/2016] [Indexed: 12/22/2022]
Abstract
Praziquantel (PZQ) is effectively the only drug currently available for treatment and control of schistosomiasis, a disease affecting hundreds of millions of people worldwide. Many anthelmintics, likely including PZQ, target ion channels, membrane protein complexes essential for normal functioning of the neuromusculature and other tissues. Despite this fact, only a few classes of parasitic helminth ion channels have been assessed for their pharmacological properties or for their roles in parasite physiology. One such overlooked group of ion channels is the transient receptor potential (TRP) channel superfamily. TRP channels share a common core structure, but are widely diverse in their activation mechanisms and ion selectivity. They are critical to transducing sensory signals, responding to a wide range of external stimuli. They are also involved in other functions, such as regulating intracellular calcium and organellar ion homeostasis and trafficking. Here, we review current literature on parasitic helminth TRP channels, focusing on those in schistosomes. We discuss the likely roles of these channels in sensory and locomotor activity, including the possible significance of a class of TRP channels (TRPV) that is absent in schistosomes. We also focus on evidence indicating that at least one schistosome TRP channel (SmTRPA) has atypical, TRPV1-like pharmacological sensitivities that could potentially be exploited for future therapeutic targeting. We provide an overview of transient receptor potential (TRP) channels in schistosomes and other parasitic helminths. TRP channels are important for sensory signaling, ion homeostasis, organellar trafficking, and a host of other functions. Very little work has been done on TRP channels in parasitic helminths. TRPV channels, found throughout the Metazoa, appear not to be present in parasitic platyhelminths. TRP channels in schistosomes appear to have atypical pharmacology, perhaps an entrée for therapeutic targeting.
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Affiliation(s)
- Swarna Bais
- Department of Pathobiology, School of Veterinary Medicine, University of Pennsylvania, 3800 Spruce Street, Philadelphia, PA 19104, USA
| | - Robert M Greenberg
- Department of Pathobiology, School of Veterinary Medicine, University of Pennsylvania, 3800 Spruce Street, Philadelphia, PA 19104, USA.
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Next Generation Sequencing Identifies Five Major Classes of Potentially Therapeutic Enzymes Secreted by Lucilia sericata Medical Maggots. BIOMED RESEARCH INTERNATIONAL 2016; 2016:8285428. [PMID: 27119084 PMCID: PMC4826915 DOI: 10.1155/2016/8285428] [Citation(s) in RCA: 19] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/29/2016] [Accepted: 03/07/2016] [Indexed: 01/01/2023]
Abstract
Lucilia sericata larvae are used as an alternative treatment for recalcitrant and chronic wounds. Their excretions/secretions contain molecules that facilitate tissue debridement, disinfect, or accelerate wound healing and have therefore been recognized as a potential source of novel therapeutic compounds. Among the substances present in excretions/secretions various peptidase activities promoting the wound healing processes have been detected but the peptidases responsible for these activities remain mostly unidentified. To explore these enzymes we applied next generation sequencing to analyze the transcriptomes of different maggot tissues (salivary glands, gut, and crop) associated with the production of excretions/secretions and/or with digestion as well as the rest of the larval body. As a result we obtained more than 123.8 million paired-end reads, which were assembled de novo using Trinity and Oases assemblers, yielding 41,421 contigs with an N50 contig length of 2.22 kb and a total length of 67.79 Mb. BLASTp analysis against the MEROPS database identified 1729 contigs in 577 clusters encoding five peptidase classes (serine, cysteine, aspartic, threonine, and metallopeptidases), which were assigned to 26 clans, 48 families, and 185 peptidase species. The individual enzymes were differentially expressed among maggot tissues and included peptidase activities related to the therapeutic effects of maggot excretions/secretions.
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