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Sardag I, Duvenci ZS, Belkaya S, Timucin E. Rational design of monomeric IL37 variants guided by stability and dynamical analyses of IL37 dimers. Comput Struct Biotechnol J 2024; 23:1854-1863. [PMID: 38882680 PMCID: PMC11177541 DOI: 10.1016/j.csbj.2024.04.037] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/20/2024] [Revised: 04/07/2024] [Accepted: 04/14/2024] [Indexed: 06/18/2024] Open
Abstract
IL37 plays important roles in the regulation of innate immunity and its oligomeric status is critical to these roles. In its monomeric state, IL37 can effectively inhibit the inflammatory response of IL18 by binding to IL18Rα, a capacity lost in its dimeric form, underlining the pivotal role of the oligomeric status of IL37 in its anti-inflammatory action. Until now, two IL37 dimer structures have been deposited in PDB, reflecting a substantial difference in their dimer interfaces. Given this discrepancy, we analyzed the PDB structures of the IL37 dimer (PDB IDs: 6ncu, 5hn1) along with a AF2-multimer prediction by molecular dynamics (MD) simulations. Results showed that the 5hn1 and AF2-predicted dimers have the same interface and stably maintained their conformations throughout simulations, while the recent IL37 dimer (PDB ID: 6ncu) with a different interface did not, proposing a possible issue with the recent IL37 dimer structure (6ncu). Next, focusing on the stable dimer structures, we have identified five critical positions of V71/Y85/I86/E89/S114, three new positions compared to the literature, that would reduce dimer stability without affecting the monomer structure. Two quintuple mutants were tested by MD simulations and showed partial or complete dissociation of the dimer. Overall, the insights gained from this study reinforce the validity of the 5hn1 and AF2 multimer structures, while also advancing our understanding of the IL37 dimer interface through the generation of monomer-locked IL37 variants.
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Affiliation(s)
- Inci Sardag
- Bogazici University, Department of Molecular Biology and Genetics, Istanbul 34342, Turkey
| | - Zeynep Sevval Duvenci
- Acibadem Mehmet Ali Aydinlar University, Institute of Health Sciences, Department of Biostatistics and Bioinformatics, Istanbul 34752, Turkey
| | - Serkan Belkaya
- Bilkent University, Department of Molecular Biology and Genetics, Ankara 06800, Turkey
- Bilkent University, The National Nanotechnology Research Center (UNAM), Ankara 06800, Turkey
| | - Emel Timucin
- Acibadem Mehmet Ali Aydinlar University, Institute of Health Sciences, Department of Biostatistics and Bioinformatics, Istanbul 34752, Turkey
- Acibadem Mehmet Ali Aydinlar University, School of Medicine, Biostatistics and Medical Informatics, Istanbul 34752, Turkey
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2
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Herlah B, Goričan T, Benedik NS, Grdadolnik SG, Sosič I, Perdih A. Simulation- and AI-directed optimization of 4,6-substituted 1,3,5-triazin-2(1 H)-ones as inhibitors of human DNA topoisomerase IIα. Comput Struct Biotechnol J 2024; 23:2995-3018. [PMID: 39135887 PMCID: PMC11318567 DOI: 10.1016/j.csbj.2024.06.037] [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: 05/03/2024] [Revised: 06/29/2024] [Accepted: 06/30/2024] [Indexed: 08/15/2024] Open
Abstract
The 4,6-substituted-1,3,5-triazin-2(1H)-ones are promising inhibitors of human DNA topoisomerase IIα. To further develop this chemical class targeting the enzyme´s ATP binding site, the triazin-2(1H)-one substitution position 6 was optimized. Inspired by binding of preclinical substituted 9H-purine derivative, bicyclic substituents were incorporated at position 6 and the utility of this modification was validated by a combination of molecular simulations, dynamic pharmacophores, and free energy calculations. Considering also predictions of Deepfrag, a software developed for structure-based lead optimization based on deep learning, compounds with both bicyclic and monocyclic substitutions were synthesized and investigated for their inhibitory activity. The SAR data showed that the bicyclic substituted compounds exhibited good inhibition of topo IIα, comparable to their mono-substituted counterparts. Further evaluation on a panel of human protein kinases showed selectivity for the inhibition of topo IIα. Mechanistic studies indicated that the compounds acted predominantly as catalytic inhibitors, with some exhibiting topo IIα poison effects at higher concentrations. Integration of STD NMR experiments and molecular simulations, provided insights into the binding model and highlighted the importance of the Asn120 interaction and hydrophobic interactions with substituents at positions 4 and 6. In addition, NCI-60 screening demonstrated cytotoxicity of the compounds with bicyclic substituents and identified sensitive human cancer cell lines, underlining the translational relevance of our findings for further preclinical development of this class of compounds. The study highlights the synergy between simulation and AI-based approaches in efficiently guiding molecular design for drug optimization, which has implications for further preclinical development of this class of compounds.
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Affiliation(s)
- Barbara Herlah
- National Institute of Chemistry, Hajdrihova 19, SI 1000 Ljubljana, Slovenia
- University of Ljubljana, Faculty of Pharmacy, Aškerčeva 7, SI 1000 Ljubljana, Slovenia
| | - Tjaša Goričan
- National Institute of Chemistry, Hajdrihova 19, SI 1000 Ljubljana, Slovenia
| | - Nika Strašek Benedik
- University of Ljubljana, Faculty of Pharmacy, Aškerčeva 7, SI 1000 Ljubljana, Slovenia
| | | | - Izidor Sosič
- University of Ljubljana, Faculty of Pharmacy, Aškerčeva 7, SI 1000 Ljubljana, Slovenia
| | - Andrej Perdih
- National Institute of Chemistry, Hajdrihova 19, SI 1000 Ljubljana, Slovenia
- University of Ljubljana, Faculty of Pharmacy, Aškerčeva 7, SI 1000 Ljubljana, Slovenia
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3
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Mercurio I, D’Abrosca G, della Valle M, Malgieri G, Fattorusso R, Isernia C, Russo L, Di Gaetano S, Pedone EM, Pirone L, Del Gatto A, Zaccaro L, Alberga D, Saviano M, Mangiatordi GF. Molecular interactions between a diphenyl scaffold and PED/PEA15: Implications for type II diabetes therapeutics targeting PED/PEA15 - Phospholipase D1 interaction. Comput Struct Biotechnol J 2024; 23:2001-2010. [PMID: 38770160 PMCID: PMC11103223 DOI: 10.1016/j.csbj.2024.04.063] [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: 03/04/2024] [Revised: 04/29/2024] [Accepted: 04/29/2024] [Indexed: 05/22/2024] Open
Abstract
In a recent study, we have identified BPH03 as a promising scaffold for the development of compounds aimed at modulating the interaction between PED/PEA15 (Phosphoprotein Enriched in Diabetes/Phosphoprotein Enriched in Astrocytes 15) and PLD1 (phospholipase D1), with potential applications in type II diabetes therapy. PED/PEA15 is known to be overexpressed in certain forms of diabetes, where it binds to PLD1, thereby reducing insulin-stimulated glucose transport. The inhibition of this interaction reestablishes basal glucose transport, indicating PED as a potential target of ligands capable to recover glucose tolerance and insulin sensitivity. In this study, we employ computational methods to provide a detailed description of BPH03 interaction with PED, evidencing the presence of a hidden druggable pocket within its PLD1 binding surface. We also elucidate the conformational changes that occur during PED interaction with BPH03. Moreover, we report new NMR data supporting the in-silico findings and indicating that BPH03 disrupts the PED/PLD1 interface displacing PLD1 from its interaction with PED. Our study represents a significant advancement toward the development of potential therapeutics for the treatment of type II diabetes.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ivan Mercurio
- Institute of Crystallography, CNR, Via Amendola 122/o, 70126 Bari, Italy
- Department of Environmental, Biological and Pharmaceutical Sciences and Technologies, University of Campania “Luigi Vanvitelli”, Via Vivaldi 43, 81100 Caserta, Italy
| | - Gianluca D’Abrosca
- Department of Clinical and Experimental Medicine, University of Foggia, Viale Pinto 1, 71122 Foggia, Italy
- Institute of Crystallography, CNR, Via Vivaldi 43, 81100, Caserta, Italy
| | - Maria della Valle
- Department of Environmental, Biological and Pharmaceutical Sciences and Technologies, University of Campania “Luigi Vanvitelli”, Via Vivaldi 43, 81100 Caserta, Italy
| | - Gaetano Malgieri
- Department of Environmental, Biological and Pharmaceutical Sciences and Technologies, University of Campania “Luigi Vanvitelli”, Via Vivaldi 43, 81100 Caserta, Italy
| | - Roberto Fattorusso
- Department of Environmental, Biological and Pharmaceutical Sciences and Technologies, University of Campania “Luigi Vanvitelli”, Via Vivaldi 43, 81100 Caserta, Italy
| | - Carla Isernia
- Department of Environmental, Biological and Pharmaceutical Sciences and Technologies, University of Campania “Luigi Vanvitelli”, Via Vivaldi 43, 81100 Caserta, Italy
| | - Luigi Russo
- Department of Environmental, Biological and Pharmaceutical Sciences and Technologies, University of Campania “Luigi Vanvitelli”, Via Vivaldi 43, 81100 Caserta, Italy
| | - Sonia Di Gaetano
- Institute of Biostructures and Bioimaging, CNR, Via P. Castellino 111, 80131 Naples, Italy
| | - Emilia Maria Pedone
- Institute of Biostructures and Bioimaging, CNR, Via P. Castellino 111, 80131 Naples, Italy
| | - Luciano Pirone
- Institute of Biostructures and Bioimaging, CNR, Via P. Castellino 111, 80131 Naples, Italy
| | - Annarita Del Gatto
- Institute of Biostructures and Bioimaging, CNR, Via P. Castellino 111, 80131 Naples, Italy
| | - Laura Zaccaro
- Institute of Biostructures and Bioimaging, CNR, Via P. Castellino 111, 80131 Naples, Italy
| | - Domenico Alberga
- Institute of Crystallography, CNR, Via Amendola 122/o, 70126 Bari, Italy
| | - Michele Saviano
- Institute of Crystallography, CNR, Via Vivaldi 43, 81100, Caserta, Italy
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4
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Rojas-Prats E, Martinez-Gonzalez L, Gil C, Ramírez D, Martinez A. Druggable cavities and allosteric modulators of the cell division cycle 7 (CDC7) kinase. J Enzyme Inhib Med Chem 2024; 39:2301767. [PMID: 38205514 PMCID: PMC10786434 DOI: 10.1080/14756366.2024.2301767] [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: 10/05/2023] [Accepted: 12/18/2023] [Indexed: 01/12/2024] Open
Abstract
Cell division cycle 7 kinase (CDC7) has been found overexpressed in many cancer cell lines being also one of the kinases involved in the nuclear protein TDP-43 phosphorylation in vivo. Thus, inhibitors of CDC7 are emerging drug candidates for the treatment of oncological and neurodegenerative unmet diseases. All the known CDC7 inhibitors are ATP-competitives, lacking of selectivity enough for success in clinical trials. As allosteric sites are less conserved among kinase proteins, discovery of allosteric modulators of CDC7 is a great challenge and opportunity in this field.Using different computational approaches, we have here identified new druggable cavities on the human CDC7 structure and subsequently selective CDC7 inhibitors with allosteric modulation mainly targeting the pockets where the interaction between this kinase and its activator DBF4 takes place.
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Affiliation(s)
- Elisa Rojas-Prats
- Centro de Investigaciones Biológicas -Margarita Salas-CSIC, Madrid, Spain
| | - Loreto Martinez-Gonzalez
- Centro de Investigaciones Biológicas -Margarita Salas-CSIC, Madrid, Spain
- Centro de Investigación Biomédica en Red de Enfermedades Neurodegenerativas (CIBERNED), Instituto de 13 Salud Carlos III, Madrid, Spain
| | - Carmen Gil
- Centro de Investigaciones Biológicas -Margarita Salas-CSIC, Madrid, Spain
| | - David Ramírez
- Departamento de Farmacología, Facultad de Ciencias Biológicas, Universidad de Concepción, Concepción, Chile
| | - Ana Martinez
- Centro de Investigaciones Biológicas -Margarita Salas-CSIC, Madrid, Spain
- Centro de Investigación Biomédica en Red de Enfermedades Neurodegenerativas (CIBERNED), Instituto de 13 Salud Carlos III, Madrid, Spain
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5
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Shum MHH, Lee Y, Tam L, Xia H, Chung OLW, Guo Z, Lam TTY. Binding affinity between coronavirus spike protein and human ACE2 receptor. Comput Struct Biotechnol J 2024; 23:759-770. [PMID: 38304547 PMCID: PMC10831124 DOI: 10.1016/j.csbj.2024.01.009] [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: 09/15/2023] [Revised: 01/14/2024] [Accepted: 01/15/2024] [Indexed: 02/03/2024] Open
Abstract
Coronaviruses (CoVs) pose a major risk to global public health due to their ability to infect diverse animal species and potential for emergence in humans. The CoV spike protein mediates viral entry into the cell and plays a crucial role in determining the binding affinity to host cell receptors. With particular emphasis on α- and β-coronaviruses that infect humans and domestic animals, current research on CoV receptor use suggests that the exploitation of the angiotensin-converting enzyme 2 (ACE2) receptor poses a significant threat for viral emergence with pandemic potential. This review summarizes the approaches used to study binding interactions between CoV spike proteins and the human ACE2 (hACE2) receptor. Solid-phase enzyme immunoassays and cell binding assays allow qualitative assessment of binding but lack quantitative evaluation of affinity. Surface plasmon resonance, Bio-layer interferometry, and Microscale Thermophoresis on the other hand, provide accurate affinity measurement through equilibrium dissociation constants (KD). In silico modeling predicts affinity through binding structure modeling, protein-protein docking simulations, and binding energy calculations but reveals inconsistent results due to the lack of a standardized approach. Machine learning and deep learning models utilize simulated and experimental protein-protein interaction data to elucidate the critical residues associated with CoV binding affinity to hACE2. Further optimization and standardization of existing approaches for studying binding affinity could aid pandemic preparedness. Specifically, prioritizing surveillance of CoVs that can bind to human receptors stands to mitigate the risk of zoonotic spillover.
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Affiliation(s)
- Marcus Ho-Hin Shum
- State Key Laboratory of Emerging Infectious Diseases, The University of Hong Kong, Hong Kong, China
- School of Public Health, The University of Hong Kong, Hong Kong, China
- Laboratory of Data Discovery for Health (D24H), Hong Kong Science Park, Hong Kong, China
| | - Yang Lee
- School of Public Health, The University of Hong Kong, Hong Kong, China
- Centre for Immunology and Infection (C2i), Hong Kong Science Park, Hong Kong, China
| | - Leighton Tam
- School of Public Health, The University of Hong Kong, Hong Kong, China
- Laboratory of Data Discovery for Health (D24H), Hong Kong Science Park, Hong Kong, China
| | - Hui Xia
- Department of Chemistry, South University of Science and Technology of China, China
- Department of Chemistry, The Hong Kong University of Science and Technology, Clear Water Bay, Kowloon, Hong Kong, China
| | - Oscar Lung-Wa Chung
- Department of Chemistry, South University of Science and Technology of China, China
| | - Zhihong Guo
- Department of Chemistry, The Hong Kong University of Science and Technology, Clear Water Bay, Kowloon, Hong Kong, China
| | - Tommy Tsan-Yuk Lam
- State Key Laboratory of Emerging Infectious Diseases, The University of Hong Kong, Hong Kong, China
- School of Public Health, The University of Hong Kong, Hong Kong, China
- Laboratory of Data Discovery for Health (D24H), Hong Kong Science Park, Hong Kong, China
- Centre for Immunology and Infection (C2i), Hong Kong Science Park, Hong Kong, China
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6
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Bibars RS, Al-Balas QA. Computational fragment-based drug design of potential Glo-I inhibitors. J Enzyme Inhib Med Chem 2024; 39:2301758. [PMID: 38247330 PMCID: PMC10810659 DOI: 10.1080/14756366.2024.2301758] [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: 09/25/2023] [Accepted: 12/18/2023] [Indexed: 01/23/2024] Open
Abstract
In this study, a fragment-based drug design approach, particularly de novo drug design, was implemented utilising three different crystal structures in order to discover new privileged scaffolds against glyoxalase-I enzyme as anticancer agents. The fragments were evoluted to indicate potential inhibitors with high receptor affinities. The resulting compounds were served as a benchmark for choosing similar compounds from the ASINEX® database by applying different computational ligand-based drug design techniques. Afterwards, the selection of potential hits was further aided by various structure-based approaches. Then, 14 compounds were purchased, and tested in vitro against Glo-I enzyme. Of the tested 14 hits, the biological screening results showed humble activities where the percentage of Glo-I inhibition ranged from 0-18.70 %. Compound 19 and compound 28, whose percentage of inhibitions are 18.70 and 15.80%, respectively, can be considered as hits that need further optimisation in order to be converted into lead-like compounds.
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Affiliation(s)
- Roaa S. Bibars
- Department of Medicinal Chemistry and Pharmacognosy, Jordan University of Science and Technology, Irbid, Jordan
| | - Qosay A. Al-Balas
- Department of Medicinal Chemistry and Pharmacognosy, Jordan University of Science and Technology, Irbid, Jordan
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7
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Sabuakham S, Nasoontorn S, Kongtaworn N, Rungrotmongkol T, Silsirivanit A, Pingaew R, Mahalapbutr P. Anilino-1,4-naphthoquinones as potent mushroom tyrosinase inhibitors: in vitro and in silico studies. J Enzyme Inhib Med Chem 2024; 39:2357174. [PMID: 38814149 PMCID: PMC11141316 DOI: 10.1080/14756366.2024.2357174] [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: 03/04/2024] [Accepted: 05/14/2024] [Indexed: 05/31/2024] Open
Abstract
Tyrosinase, a pivotal enzyme in melanin synthesis, is a primary target for the development of depigmenting agents. In this work, in vitro and in silico techniques were employed to identify novel tyrosinase inhibitors from a set of 12 anilino-1,4-naphthoquinone derivatives. Results from the mushroom tyrosinase activity assay indicated that, among the 12 derivatives, three compounds (1, 5, and 10) demonstrated the most significant inhibitory activity against mushroom tyrosinase, surpassing the effectiveness of the kojic acid. Molecular docking revealed that all studied derivatives interacted with copper ions and amino acid residues at the enzyme active site. Molecular dynamics simulations provided insights into the stability of enzyme-inhibitor complexes, in which compounds 1, 5, and particularly 10 displayed greater stability, atomic contacts, and structural compactness than kojic acid. Drug likeness prediction further strengthens the potential of anilino-1,4-naphthoquinones as promising candidates for the development of novel tyrosinase inhibitors for the treatment of hyperpigmentation disorders.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sahachai Sabuakham
- Department of Biochemistry, Center for Translational Medicine, Faculty of Medicine, Khon Kaen University, Khon Kaen, Thailand
| | - Sutita Nasoontorn
- Department of Biochemistry, Center for Translational Medicine, Faculty of Medicine, Khon Kaen University, Khon Kaen, Thailand
| | - Napat Kongtaworn
- Program in Bioinformatics and Computational Biology, Graduate School, Chulalongkorn University, Bangkok, Thailand
| | - Thanyada Rungrotmongkol
- Program in Bioinformatics and Computational Biology, Graduate School, Chulalongkorn University, Bangkok, Thailand
- Center of Excellence in Structural and Computational Biology, Department of Biochemistry, Faculty of Science, Chulalongkorn University, Bangkok, Thailand
| | - Atit Silsirivanit
- Department of Biochemistry, Center for Translational Medicine, Faculty of Medicine, Khon Kaen University, Khon Kaen, Thailand
| | - Ratchanok Pingaew
- Department of Chemistry, Faculty of Science, Srinakharinwirot University, Bangkok, Thailand
| | - Panupong Mahalapbutr
- Department of Biochemistry, Center for Translational Medicine, Faculty of Medicine, Khon Kaen University, Khon Kaen, Thailand
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8
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Pham C, Stogios PJ, Savchenko A, Mahadevan R. Computation-guided transcription factor biosensor specificity engineering for adipic acid detection. Comput Struct Biotechnol J 2024; 23:2211-2219. [PMID: 38817964 PMCID: PMC11137364 DOI: 10.1016/j.csbj.2024.05.002] [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: 12/13/2023] [Revised: 05/01/2024] [Accepted: 05/02/2024] [Indexed: 06/01/2024] Open
Abstract
Transcription factor (TF)-based biosensors that connect small-molecule sensing with readouts such as fluorescence have proven to be useful synthetic biology tools for applications in biotechnology. However, the development of specific TF-based biosensors is hindered by the limited repertoire of TFs specific for molecules of interest since current construction methods rely on a limited set of characterized TFs. In this study, we present an approach for engineering the specificity of TFs through a computation-based workflow using molecular docking that enables targeted alteration of TF ligand specificity. Using this method, we engineer the LysR family BenM TF to alter its specificity from its cognate ligand cis,cis-muconic acid to adipic acid through a single amino acid substitution identified by our computational workflow. When implemented in a cell-free system, the engineered biosensor shows higher ligand sensitivity, expanding the potential applications of this circuit. We further investigate ligand binding through molecular dynamics to analyze the substitution, elucidating the impact of modulating a single amino acid position on the mechanism of BenM ligand binding. This study represents the first application of biomolecular modeling methods for altering BenM specificity and for gaining insights into how mutations influence the structural dynamics of BenM. Such methods can potentially be applied to other TFs to alter specificity and analyze the dynamics responsible for these changes, highlighting the applicability of computational tools for informing experiments. In addition, our developed adipic acid biosensor can be applied for the identification and engineering of enzymes to produce adipic acid.
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Affiliation(s)
- Chester Pham
- Department of Chemical Engineering and Applied Chemistry, University of Toronto, Ontario, Canada
| | - Peter J. Stogios
- Department of Chemical Engineering and Applied Chemistry, University of Toronto, Ontario, Canada
| | - Alexei Savchenko
- Department of Chemical Engineering and Applied Chemistry, University of Toronto, Ontario, Canada
- Department of Microbiology, Immunology and Infectious Diseases, University of Calgary, Calgary, Alberta, Canada
| | - Radhakrishnan Mahadevan
- Department of Chemical Engineering and Applied Chemistry, University of Toronto, Ontario, Canada
- The Institute of Biomedical Engineering, University of Toronto, Ontario, Canada
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9
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Guerra J, Belleri M, Paiardi G, Tobia C, Capoferri D, Corli M, Scalvini E, Ghirimoldi M, Manfredi M, Wade RC, Presta M, Mignani L. Impact of an irreversible β-galactosylceramidase inhibitor on the lipid profile of zebrafish embryos. Comput Struct Biotechnol J 2024; 23:1397-1407. [PMID: 38596316 PMCID: PMC11002810 DOI: 10.1016/j.csbj.2024.03.023] [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: 01/10/2024] [Revised: 03/18/2024] [Accepted: 03/25/2024] [Indexed: 04/11/2024] Open
Abstract
Krabbe disease is a sphingolipidosis characterized by the genetic deficiency of the acid hydrolase β-galactosylceramidase (GALC). Most of the studies concerning the biological role of GALC performed on Krabbe patients and Galc-deficient twitcher mice (an authentic animal model of the disease) indicate that the pathogenesis of this disorder is the consequence of the accumulation of the neurotoxic GALC substrate β-galactosylsphingosine (psychosine), ignoring the possibility that this enzyme may exert a wider biological impact. Indeed, limited information is available about the effect of GALC downregulation on the cell lipidome in adult and developing organisms. The teleost zebrafish (Danio rerio) has emerged as a useful platform to model human genetic diseases, including sphingolipidoses, and two GALC co-orthologs have been identified in zebrafish (galca and galcb). Here, we investigated the effect of the competitive and irreversible GALC inhibitor β-galactose-cyclophellitol (GCP) on the lipid profile of zebrafish embryos. Molecular modelling indicates that GCP can be sequestered in the catalytic site of the enzyme and covalently binds human GALC, and the zebrafish Galca and Galcb proteins in a similar manner. Accordingly, GCP inhibits the β-galactosylceramide hydrolase activity of zebrafish in vitro and in vivo, leading to significant alterations of the lipidome of zebrafish embryos. These results indicate that the lack of GALC activity deeply affects the lipidome during the early stages of embryonic development, and thereby provide insights into the pathogenesis of Krabbe disease.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jessica Guerra
- Department of Molecular and Translational Medicine, University of Brescia, Brescia, Italy
| | - Mirella Belleri
- Department of Molecular and Translational Medicine, University of Brescia, Brescia, Italy
| | - Giulia Paiardi
- Department of Molecular and Translational Medicine, University of Brescia, Brescia, Italy
- Molecular and Cellular Modeling Group, Heidelberg Institute for Theoretical Studies, Germany
- Zentrum für Molekulare Biologie der Universität Heidelberg (ZMBH), DKFZ-ZMBH Alliance, Heidelberg, Germany
| | - Chiara Tobia
- Department of Molecular and Translational Medicine, University of Brescia, Brescia, Italy
| | - Davide Capoferri
- Department of Molecular and Translational Medicine, University of Brescia, Brescia, Italy
| | - Marzia Corli
- Department of Molecular and Translational Medicine, University of Brescia, Brescia, Italy
| | - Elisa Scalvini
- Department of Molecular and Translational Medicine, University of Brescia, Brescia, Italy
| | - Marco Ghirimoldi
- Department of Translational Medicine, University of Piemonte Orientale, Novara, Italy
- Center for Allergic and Autoimmune Diseases, University of Piemonte Orientale, Novara, Italy
| | - Marcello Manfredi
- Department of Translational Medicine, University of Piemonte Orientale, Novara, Italy
- Center for Allergic and Autoimmune Diseases, University of Piemonte Orientale, Novara, Italy
| | - Rebecca C. Wade
- Molecular and Cellular Modeling Group, Heidelberg Institute for Theoretical Studies, Germany
- Zentrum für Molekulare Biologie der Universität Heidelberg (ZMBH), DKFZ-ZMBH Alliance, Heidelberg, Germany
- Interdisciplinary Center for Scientific Computing (IWR), Heidelberg University, Heidelberg, Germany
| | - Marco Presta
- Department of Molecular and Translational Medicine, University of Brescia, Brescia, Italy
- Consorzio Interuniversitario Biotecnologie (CIB), Unit of Brescia, Italy
| | - Luca Mignani
- Department of Molecular and Translational Medicine, University of Brescia, Brescia, Italy
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10
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Li Q, Zhou SR, Kim H, Wang H, Zhu JJ, Yang JK. Discovering novel Cathepsin L inhibitors from natural products using artificial intelligence. Comput Struct Biotechnol J 2024; 23:2606-2614. [PMID: 39006920 PMCID: PMC11245987 DOI: 10.1016/j.csbj.2024.06.009] [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: 02/05/2024] [Revised: 05/24/2024] [Accepted: 06/06/2024] [Indexed: 07/16/2024] Open
Abstract
Cathepsin L (CTSL) is a promising therapeutic target for metabolic disorders. Current pharmacological interventions targeting CTSL have demonstrated potential in reducing body weight gain, serum insulin levels, and improving glucose tolerance. However, the clinical application of CTSL inhibitors remains limited. In this study, we used a combination of artificial intelligence and experimental methods to identify new CTSL inhibitors from natural products. Through a robust deep learning model and molecular docking, we screened 150 molecules from natural products for experimental validation. At a concentration of 100 µM, we found that 36 of them exhibited more than 50 % inhibition of CTSL. Notably, 13 molecules displayed over 90 % inhibition and exhibiting concentration-dependent effects. The molecular dynamics simulation on the two most potent inhibitors, Plumbagin and Beta-Lapachone, demonstrated stable interaction at the CTSL active site. Enzyme kinetics studies have shown that these inhibitors exert an uncompetitive inhibitory effect on CTSL. In conclusion, our research identifies Plumbagin and Beta-Lapachone as potential CTSL inhibitors, offering promising candidates for the treatment of metabolic disorders and illustrating the effectiveness of artificial intelligence in drug discovery.
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Affiliation(s)
- Qi Li
- Beijing Key Laboratory of Diabetes Research and Care, Beijing Diabetes Institute, Beijing Tongren Hospital, Capital Medical University, Beijing 100730, China
- Laboratory for Clinical Medicine, Capital Medical University, Beijing 100069, China
| | - Si-Rui Zhou
- Beijing Key Laboratory of Diabetes Research and Care, Beijing Diabetes Institute, Beijing Tongren Hospital, Capital Medical University, Beijing 100730, China
| | - Hanna Kim
- Beijing Key Laboratory of Diabetes Research and Care, Beijing Diabetes Institute, Beijing Tongren Hospital, Capital Medical University, Beijing 100730, China
- Laboratory for Clinical Medicine, Capital Medical University, Beijing 100069, China
| | - Hao Wang
- Beijing Key Laboratory of Diabetes Research and Care, Beijing Diabetes Institute, Beijing Tongren Hospital, Capital Medical University, Beijing 100730, China
- Laboratory for Clinical Medicine, Capital Medical University, Beijing 100069, China
| | - Juan-Juan Zhu
- Beijing Key Laboratory of Diabetes Research and Care, Beijing Diabetes Institute, Beijing Tongren Hospital, Capital Medical University, Beijing 100730, China
- Laboratory for Clinical Medicine, Capital Medical University, Beijing 100069, China
| | - Jin-Kui Yang
- Beijing Key Laboratory of Diabetes Research and Care, Beijing Diabetes Institute, Beijing Tongren Hospital, Capital Medical University, Beijing 100730, China
- Laboratory for Clinical Medicine, Capital Medical University, Beijing 100069, China
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11
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Su HL, Lai SJ, Tsai KC, Fung KM, Lung TL, Hsu HM, Wu YC, Liu CH, Lai HX, Lin JH, Tseng TS. Structure-guided identification and characterization of potent inhibitors targeting PhoP and MtrA to combat mycobacteria. Comput Struct Biotechnol J 2024; 23:1477-1488. [PMID: 38623562 PMCID: PMC11016868 DOI: 10.1016/j.csbj.2024.04.005] [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: 12/24/2023] [Revised: 04/01/2024] [Accepted: 04/01/2024] [Indexed: 04/17/2024] Open
Abstract
Mycobacteria are causative agents of tuberculosis (TB), which is a global health concern. Drug-resistant TB strains are rapidly emerging, thereby necessitating the urgent development of new drugs. Two-component signal transduction systems (TCSs) are signaling pathways involved in the regulation of various bacterial behaviors and responses to environmental stimuli. Applying specific inhibitors of TCSs can disrupt bacterial signaling, growth, and virulence, and can help combat drug-resistant TB. We conducted a comprehensive pharmacophore-based inhibitor screening and biochemical and biophysical examinations to identify, characterize, and validate potential inhibitors targeting the response regulators PhoP and MtrA of mycobacteria. The constructed pharmacophore model Phar-PR-n4 identified effective inhibitors of formation of the PhoP-DNA complex: ST132 (IC50 = 29 ± 1.6 µM) and ST166 (IC50 = 18 ± 1.3 µM). ST166 (KD = 18.4 ± 4.3 μM) and ST132 (KD = 14.5 ± 0.1 μM) strongly targeted PhoP in a slow-on, slow-off manner. The inhibitory potency and binding affinity of ST166 and ST132 for MtrAC were comparable to those of PhoP. Structural analyses and molecular dynamics simulations revealed that ST166 and ST132 mainly interact with the α8-helix and C-terminal β-hairpin of PhoP, with functionally essential residue hotspots for structure-based inhibitor optimization. Moreover, ST166 has in vitro antibacterial activity against Macrobacterium marinum. Thus, ST166, with its characteristic 1,2,5,6-tetrathiocane and terminal sulphonic groups, has excellent potential as a candidate for the development of novel antimicrobial agents to combat pathogenic mycobacteria.
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Affiliation(s)
- Han-Li Su
- Department of Emergency Medicine, Ditmanson Medical Foundation Chia-Yi Christian Hospital, Chiayi City 600, Taiwan
| | - Shu-Jung Lai
- Graduate Institute of Biomedical Sciences, China Medical University, Taichung, Taiwan
- Research Center for Cancer Biology, China Medical University, Taichung, Taiwan
| | - Keng-Chang Tsai
- National Research Institute of Chinese Medicine, Ministry of Health and Welfare, Taipei, Taiwan
- Ph.D. Program in Medical Biotechnology, College of Medical Science and Technology, Taipei Medical University, Taipei, Taiwan
| | - Kit-Man Fung
- Biomedical Translation Research Center (BioTReC), Academia Sinica, Taipei 11529, Taiwan
| | - Tse-Lin Lung
- Institute of Molecular Biology, National Chung Hsing University, Taichung,Taiwan
| | - Hsing-Mien Hsu
- Institute of Molecular Biology, National Chung Hsing University, Taichung,Taiwan
| | - Yi-Chen Wu
- Institute of Molecular Biology, National Chung Hsing University, Taichung,Taiwan
| | - Ching-Hui Liu
- Institute of Molecular Biology, National Chung Hsing University, Taichung,Taiwan
| | - Hui-Xiang Lai
- Institute of Molecular Biology, National Chung Hsing University, Taichung,Taiwan
| | - Jiun-Han Lin
- Department of Industrial Technology, Ministry of Economic Affairs, Taipei, Taiwan
- Food Industry Research and Development Institute, Hsinchu City, Taiwan
| | - Tien-Sheng Tseng
- Institute of Molecular Biology, National Chung Hsing University, Taichung,Taiwan
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12
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Bello RO, Okunlola ST, Kumar N, Victor O, Jimoh TO, Abdulsalam ZN, Kehinde IO, Umar HI. An integrative computational approach for the identification of dual inhibitors of isocitrate dehydrogenase 1 and 2 from phytocompounds of Phyllantus amarus. J Biomol Struct Dyn 2024; 42:7272-7288. [PMID: 37559488 DOI: 10.1080/07391102.2023.2245494] [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: 01/31/2023] [Accepted: 07/16/2023] [Indexed: 08/11/2023]
Abstract
Genetic alterations of the genes encoding the isocitrate dehydrogenase (IDH) enzymes have been identified in about 20% of acute myeloid leukemia (AML) cases as well as many other forms of cancers. Notable among these alterations are the neomorphic IDH1_R132H and IDH2_R140Q mutations which lead to the production of an oncometabolite. Hence, their inhibition is widely considered a therapeutic strategy in the treatment of many cancers. While many inhibitors of the mutant enzymes have been developed, an inhibitor that is capable of co-inhibiting both enzymes are currently lacking while drug resistance has also limited the clinical usage of previously identified mono inhibitors. Consequently, this study employed molecular modeling approaches, such as molecular docking, molecular mechanics generalized Born Surface area (MM/GBSA), molecular dynamics (MD) simulation, and density functional theory (DFT) analysis to identify potential dual inhibitors of the previously mentioned mutant IDH1/2 from the phytocompounds of Phyllantus amarus. Of the 31 phytocompounds identified, 20 showed good binding affinities for both IDH1 _R132H and IDH2 _R140Q (ranging from -5.2 Kca/mol to -9.6 Kcal/mol) and had desirable pharmacokinetic properties. However, ellagic acid and pinoresinol possessed better pharmacokinetic properties, rendering suitable hits. Investigation of the behavior of the IDH1_R132H and IDH2_R140Q complexes with ellagic acid and pinoresinol via the RMSD, RMSF, and contact map analyses showed that all the complexes-maintained stability throughout the simulation time. Ultimately, ellagic acid and pinoresinol were identified as promising hits for the development of IDH1_R132H and IDH2_R140Q dual inhibitors. However, further experimental studies are needed to confirm their potential as therapies.Communicated by Ramaswamy H. Sarma.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ridwan Opeyemi Bello
- Department of Biotechnology, School of Life Sciences (SLS), Federal University of Technology Akure, Akure, Ondo State, Nigeria
- Computer-Aided Therapeutic Discovery and Design Platform (CAT2D), School of Life Sciences (SLS), Federal University of Technology Akure, Akure, Ondo State, Nigeria
| | - Salihaat Toyin Okunlola
- Computer-Aided Therapeutic Discovery and Design Platform (CAT2D), School of Life Sciences (SLS), Federal University of Technology Akure, Akure, Ondo State, Nigeria
- Department of Physiology, School of Basic Medical Sciences, Federal University of Technology Akure, Akure, Ondo State, Nigeria
| | - Neeraj Kumar
- Department of Pharmaceutical Chemistry, Bhupal Nobles' College of Pharmacy, Udaipur, Rajasthan, India
| | - Omoboyede Victor
- Computer-Aided Therapeutic Discovery and Design Platform (CAT2D), School of Life Sciences (SLS), Federal University of Technology Akure, Akure, Ondo State, Nigeria
- Department of Biochemistry, School of Life Sciences (SLS), Federal University of Technology Akure, Akure, Ondo State, Nigeria
| | - Tajudeen O Jimoh
- Department of Pharmacognosy and Pharmaceutical Botany, Chulalongkorn University, Bangkok, Thailand
- Department of Biochemistry, Islamic University in Uganda, Kampala, Uganda
| | - Zainab Naeem Abdulsalam
- Computer-Aided Therapeutic Discovery and Design Platform (CAT2D), School of Life Sciences (SLS), Federal University of Technology Akure, Akure, Ondo State, Nigeria
| | - Idayat Oyinkansola Kehinde
- Computer-Aided Therapeutic Discovery and Design Platform (CAT2D), School of Life Sciences (SLS), Federal University of Technology Akure, Akure, Ondo State, Nigeria
- Department of Biochemistry, Adekunle Ajasin University, Akungba-Akoko, Nigeria
| | - Haruna Isiyaku Umar
- Computer-Aided Therapeutic Discovery and Design Platform (CAT2D), School of Life Sciences (SLS), Federal University of Technology Akure, Akure, Ondo State, Nigeria
- Department of Biochemistry, School of Life Sciences (SLS), Federal University of Technology Akure, Akure, Ondo State, Nigeria
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13
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Li SC, Xu H, Wang PF, Wang LM, Du YR, Guan YB, Han ZX, Zhang QB. The mechanism of interaction between tri-para-cresyl phosphate and human serum protein: A multispectroscopic and in-silico study. Chem Biol Interact 2024; 400:111144. [PMID: 39002877 DOI: 10.1016/j.cbi.2024.111144] [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: 05/30/2024] [Revised: 07/08/2024] [Accepted: 07/10/2024] [Indexed: 07/15/2024]
Abstract
Organophosphate flame retardants (OPFRs) pose the significant risks to the environment and human health and have become a serious public health issue. Tricresyl phosphates (TCPs), a group of aryl OPFRs, exhibit neurotoxicity and endocrine disrupting toxicity. However, the binding mechanisms between TCPs and human serum albumin (HSA) remain unknown. In this study, through fluorescence and ultraviolet-visible (UV-vis) absorption spectroscopy, molecular docking and molecular dynamics (MD), tri-para-cresyl phosphate (TpCP) was selected to explore potential interactions between HSA and TCPs. The results of the fluorescence spectroscopy demonstrated that a decrease in the fluorescence intensity of HSA and a blue shift were observed with the increasing concentrations of TpCP. The binding constant (Ka) was 2.575 × 104 L/mol, 4.701 × 104 L/mol, 5.684 × 104 L/mol and 9.482 × 104 L/mol at 293 K, 298 K, 303 K, and 310 K, respectively. The fluorescence process between HSA and TpCP involved a mix of static and dynamic quenching mechanism. The gibbs free energy (ΔG0) of HSA-TpCP system was -24.452 kJ/mol, -25.907 kJ/mol, -27.363 kJ/mol, and - 29.401 kJ/mol at 293 K, 298 K, 303 K, and 310 K, respectively, suggesting that the HSA-TpCP reaction was spontaneous. The enthalpy change (ΔH0) and thermodynamic entropy change (ΔS0) of the HSA-TpCP system were 60.83 kJ/mol and 291.08 J/(mol·>k), respectively, indicating that hydrophobic force was the major driving force in the HSA-TpCP complex. Furthermore, multispectral analysis also revealed that TpCP could alter the microenvironment of tryptophan residue and the secondary structure of HSA and bind with the active site I of HSA. Molecular docking and MD simulations confirmed that TpCP could spontaneously form a stable complex with HSA, which was consistent with the fluorescence experimental results. This study provides novel insights into the mechanisms of underlying the transportation and distribution of OPFRs in humans.
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Affiliation(s)
- Shang-Chun Li
- Environmental Health Effects and Risk Assessment Key Laboratory of Luzhou, School of Public Health, Southwest Medical University, Luzhou, 646000, China
| | - Han Xu
- Environmental Health Effects and Risk Assessment Key Laboratory of Luzhou, School of Public Health, Southwest Medical University, Luzhou, 646000, China
| | - Peng-Fei Wang
- Environmental Health Effects and Risk Assessment Key Laboratory of Luzhou, School of Public Health, Southwest Medical University, Luzhou, 646000, China
| | - Li-Mei Wang
- Environmental Health Effects and Risk Assessment Key Laboratory of Luzhou, School of Public Health, Southwest Medical University, Luzhou, 646000, China; People's Hospital of Chongqing Hechuan, Chongqing, 401519, China
| | - Yue-Rou Du
- School of Clinical Medicine, Southwest Medical University, Luzhou, 646000, China
| | - Yong-Bin Guan
- School of Clinical Medicine, Southwest Medical University, Luzhou, 646000, China
| | - Zhi-Xia Han
- Environmental Health Effects and Risk Assessment Key Laboratory of Luzhou, School of Public Health, Southwest Medical University, Luzhou, 646000, China.
| | - Qing-Bi Zhang
- Environmental Health Effects and Risk Assessment Key Laboratory of Luzhou, School of Public Health, Southwest Medical University, Luzhou, 646000, China.
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14
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Bojarski KK, David A, Lecaille F, Samsonov SA. In silico approaches for better understanding cysteine cathepsin-glycosaminoglycan interactions. Carbohydr Res 2024; 543:109201. [PMID: 39013335 DOI: 10.1016/j.carres.2024.109201] [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: 04/12/2024] [Revised: 06/25/2024] [Accepted: 06/28/2024] [Indexed: 07/18/2024]
Abstract
Cysteine cathepsins constitute the largest cathepsin family, with 11 proteases in human that are present primarily within acidic endosomal and lysosomal compartments. They are involved in the turnover of intracellular and extracellular proteins. They are synthesized as inactive procathepsins that are converted to mature active forms. Cathepsins play important roles in physiological and pathological processes and, therefore, receive increasing attention as potential therapeutic targets. Their maturation and activity can be regulated by glycosaminoglycans (GAGs), long linear negatively charged polysaccharides composed of recurring dimeric units. In this review, we summarize recent computational progress in the field of (pro)cathepsin-GAG complexes analyses.
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Affiliation(s)
- Krzysztof K Bojarski
- Department of Physical Chemistry, Gdansk University of Technology, Narutowicza 11/12, Gdansk, 80-233, Poland.
| | - Alexis David
- Université de Tours, Tours, France; INSERM, UMR 1100, Centre d'Etude des Pathologies Respiratoires (CEPR), Team "Mécanismes Protéolytiques dans l'Inflammation, Tours, France
| | - Fabien Lecaille
- Université de Tours, Tours, France; INSERM, UMR 1100, Centre d'Etude des Pathologies Respiratoires (CEPR), Team "Mécanismes Protéolytiques dans l'Inflammation, Tours, France
| | - Sergey A Samsonov
- Faculty of Chemistry, University of Gdansk, Wita Stwosza 63, Gdansk, 80-308, Poland
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15
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Naik B, Gupta N, Godara P, Srivastava V, Kumar P, Giri R, Prajapati VK, Pandey KC, Prusty D. Structure-based virtual screening approach reveals natural multi-target compounds for the development of antimalarial drugs to combat drug resistance. J Biomol Struct Dyn 2024; 42:7384-7408. [PMID: 37528665 DOI: 10.1080/07391102.2023.2240415] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/19/2023] [Accepted: 07/17/2023] [Indexed: 08/03/2023]
Abstract
Compared to the previous year, there has been an increase of nearly 2 million malaria cases in 2021. The emergence of drug-resistant strains of Plasmodium falciparum, the most deadly malaria parasite, has led to a decline in the effectiveness of existing antimalarial drugs. To address this problem, the present study aimed to identify natural compounds with the potential to inhibit multiple validated antimalarial drug targets. The natural compounds from the Natural Product Activity and Species Source (NPASS) database were screened against ten validated drug targets of Plasmodium falciparum using a structure-based molecular docking method. Twenty compounds, with targets ranging from three to five, were determined as the top hits. The molecular dynamics simulations of the top six complexes (NPC246162 in complex with PfAdSS, PfGDH, and PfNMT; NPC271270 in complex with PfCK, PfGDH, and PfdUTPase) confirmed their stable binding affinity in the dynamic environment. The Tanimoto coefficient and distance matrix score analysis show the structural divergence of all the hit compounds from known antimalarials, indicating minimum chances of cross-resistance. Thus, we propose further investigating these compounds in biochemical and parasite inhibition studies to reveal the real therapeutic potential. If found successful, these compounds may be a new avenue for future drug discovery efforts to combat existing antimalarial drug resistance.Communicated by Ramaswamy H. Sarma.
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Affiliation(s)
- Biswajit Naik
- Department of Biochemistry, School of Life Sciences, Central University of Rajasthan, Ajmer, India
| | - Nidhi Gupta
- Department of Biochemistry, School of Life Sciences, Central University of Rajasthan, Ajmer, India
| | - Priya Godara
- Department of Biochemistry, School of Life Sciences, Central University of Rajasthan, Ajmer, India
| | - Varshita Srivastava
- Department of Biochemistry, School of Life Sciences, Central University of Rajasthan, Ajmer, India
| | - Prateek Kumar
- School of Basic Sciences, Indian Institute of Technology Mandi, Kamand, India
| | - Rajanish Giri
- School of Basic Sciences, Indian Institute of Technology Mandi, Kamand, India
| | - Vijay Kumar Prajapati
- Department of Biochemistry, School of Life Sciences, Central University of Rajasthan, Ajmer, India
| | - Kailash C Pandey
- Icmr-National Institute of Malaria Research, And Academy of Scientific and Innovative Research (AcSIR-ICMR), India
| | - Dhaneswar Prusty
- Department of Biochemistry, School of Life Sciences, Central University of Rajasthan, Ajmer, India
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16
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Han M, Kakar M, Li W, Iqbal I, Hu X, Liu Y, Tang Q, Sun L, Shakir Y, Liu T. Targeting MDM2-p53 interaction in Glioblastoma: Transcriptomic analysis and Peptide-Based inhibition strategy. Bioorg Chem 2024; 150:107620. [PMID: 38991490 DOI: 10.1016/j.bioorg.2024.107620] [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: 05/13/2024] [Revised: 06/26/2024] [Accepted: 07/07/2024] [Indexed: 07/13/2024]
Abstract
MDM2 is a gene that encodes a protein involved in cell survival, growth, and DNA repair. It has been implicated in the development and progression of glioblastoma (GBM). Inhibition of the MDM2-p53 interaction has emerged as a promising strategy for treating GBM. In this study, we performed comprehensive transcriptomic expression analysis from diverse datasets and observed MDM2 overexpression in a subset of GBM cases. MDM2 negatively regulates the major onco-suppressor p53. The interaction between MDM2 and p53 is a promising target for cancer therapy, as it can trigger p53-mediated cell death in response to different stress conditions, such as oncogene activation or DNA damage. In this study, we have identified a peptide-based inhibition of MDM2 as a therapeutic strategy for GBM. We have further validated the stability of the MDM2-peptide interaction using a molecular structural dynamics approach. The major trajectories, including root mean square of deviation (RMSD), root mean square of fluctuation (RMSF), and radius of gyration (RoG), indicate that the candidate peptides have a more stable binding compared to the native ligand and control drug. The stability of the binding interaction was further estimated by MMGBSA analysis, which also suggests that MDM2 has a stable binding with both peptide molecules. Based on these results, peptides P-1843 and P-3837 could be tested further for experimental validation to confirm their targeted inhibition of MDM-2. This approach could provide a highly selective and efficient inhibitor with potentially fewer side effects and less toxicity compared to small drug-based molecules.
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Affiliation(s)
- Manman Han
- Department of General Surgery, Wenzhou Hospital of Integrated Traditional Chinese and Western Medicine, Zhejiang Province, China
| | - Mohibullah Kakar
- Faculty of Marine Sciences, Lasbela University of Agriculture, Water and Marine Sciences (LUAWMS), Uthal, Balochistan, Pakistan
| | - Wei Li
- Department of Oncology, The Affiliated Shuyang Hospital of Xuzhou Medical University, Suqian City, Jiangsu Province, China
| | - Imran Iqbal
- Department of PLR, Institute of Active Polymers, Helmholtz-Zentrum Hereon, 14513 Teltow, Germany
| | - Xiaolin Hu
- Department of Oncology, The Affiliated Shuyang Hospital of Xuzhou Medical University, Suqian City, Jiangsu Province, China
| | - Yiting Liu
- Department of Oncology, The Affiliated Shuyang Hospital of Xuzhou Medical University, Suqian City, Jiangsu Province, China
| | - Qing Tang
- Department of Oncology, The Affiliated Shuyang Hospital of Xuzhou Medical University, Suqian City, Jiangsu Province, China
| | - Lizhu Sun
- Department of Oncology, The Affiliated Shuyang Hospital of Xuzhou Medical University, Suqian City, Jiangsu Province, China
| | - Yasmeen Shakir
- Department of Biochemistry, Hazara University, Mansehra, KPK, Pakistan.
| | - Tiantian Liu
- Department of Oncology, The Affiliated Shuyang Hospital of Xuzhou Medical University, Suqian City, Jiangsu Province, China.
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17
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Wang R, Duan L, Zhao B, Zheng Y, Chen L. Molecular recognition between volatile molecules and odorant binding proteins 7 by homology modeling, molecular docking and molecular dynamics simulation. JOURNAL OF THE SCIENCE OF FOOD AND AGRICULTURE 2024; 104:7592-7602. [PMID: 38767431 DOI: 10.1002/jsfa.13595] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/27/2024] [Revised: 05/01/2024] [Accepted: 05/04/2024] [Indexed: 05/22/2024]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Odorant-binding proteins (OBPs) in insects are key to detection and recognition of external chemical signals associated with survival. OBP7 in Spodoptera frugiperda's larval stage (SfruOBP7) may search for host plants by sensing plant volatiles, which are important sources of pest attractants and repellents. However, the atomic-level basis of binding modes remains elusive. RESULTS SfruOBP7 structure was constructed through homology modeling, and complex models of six plant volatiles ((E)-2-hexenol, α-pinene, (Z)-3-hexenyl acetate, lauric acid, O-cymene and 1-octanol) and SfruOBP7 were obtained through molecular docking. To study the detailed interactions between the six plant volatile molecules and SfruOBP7, we conducted three 300 ns molecular dynamics simulations for each study object. The correlation coefficients between binding free energy obtained by molecular mechanics/generalized Born surface area together with solvated interaction energy methods and experimental values are 0.90 and 0.88, respectively, showing a good correlation. By comparing binding free energy along with interaction patterns between SfruOBP7 and the six volatile molecules, hotspot residues of SfruOBP7 when binding with different volatile molecules were determined. Hydrophobic interactions stemming from van der Waals interactions play a significant role in SfruOBP7 and these plant volatile systems. CONCLUSION The optimized three-dimensional structure of SfruOBP7 and its binding modes with six plant volatiles revealed their interactions, thus providing a means for estimating the binding energies of other plant volatiles. Our study will help to guide the rational design of effective and selective insect attractants. © 2024 Society of Chemical Industry.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ruige Wang
- College of Chemistry and Chemical Engineering, Qiqihar University, Qiqihar, China
| | - Lixin Duan
- College of Chemistry and Chemical Engineering, Qiqihar University, Qiqihar, China
| | - Bing Zhao
- College of Chemistry and Chemical Engineering, Qiqihar University, Qiqihar, China
- Heilongjiang Provincial Key Laboratory of Surface Active Agent and Auxiliary, Qiqihar University, Qiqihar, China
| | - Yongjie Zheng
- College of Chemistry and Chemical Engineering, Qiqihar University, Qiqihar, China
| | - Lin Chen
- College of Chemistry and Chemical Engineering, Qiqihar University, Qiqihar, China
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18
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Kumar A, Verma H, Gangwar P, Jangid K, Kumar V, Dhiman M, Jaitak V. Estrogen receptor alpha (ER-α) antagonistic activity of phytoconstituents from Potentilla atrosanguinea and Potentilla fulgens in breast cancer. Fitoterapia 2024; 177:106123. [PMID: 39004288 DOI: 10.1016/j.fitote.2024.106123] [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: 05/16/2024] [Revised: 07/07/2024] [Accepted: 07/08/2024] [Indexed: 07/16/2024]
Abstract
The Potentilla genus has long been used traditionally as food and a folklore medicine. In the present study, aerial parts of two Potentilla species, Potentilla fulgens and Potentilla atrosanguinea, of western Himalayan origin, were studied for their anti-breast cancer activity. Ethyl acetate (PAA-EA, PFA-EA), methanolic (PAA-ME, PFA-ME) and hydro-methanolic extract (PAA-HM, PFA-HM) of the plants were tested for their antiproliferative activities against MCF-7 and T-47D breast cancer cell lines. The extracts showed good antiproliferative activity against ER-α dominant breast cancer cell line T-47D, having IC50 values 6.19 ± 0.01 to 33.23 ± 0.04 μg/ml. Eight compounds were isolated, characterized, and quantified from ethyl acetate and methanolic extracts by column chromatography, 1D, 2D-NMR, HRMS and TLC densitometric analysis. Two compounds (4 and 6) have shown better antiproliferative activity than standard bazedoxifene and were further evaluated for their ER-α binding affinity via-fluorescence polarization-based competitive binding assay. The antiestrogenic properties of both compounds were assessed using western blotting. Compounds 4 and 6 were found to have significant affinity for the ER-α and managed to decrease its expression by 38 and 54% respectively. Compounds 4 and 6 also had good stability and reactivity as measured by minimal fluctuations in molecular dynamic simulation analysis, a good dock score in molecular docking, and a respectable HOMO-LUMO energy gap in DFT calculations. Compounds 4 and 6 have shown reliable results and can be used in the development of natural product-based anti-breast cancer agents.
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Affiliation(s)
- Amit Kumar
- Natural Products Chemistry Lab, Department of Pharmaceutical Sciences and Natural Products, Central University of Punjab, Ghudda, Bathinda 151401, India
| | - Harkomal Verma
- Department of Zoology, Central University of Punjab, Ghudda, Bathinda 151401, India
| | - Prabhakar Gangwar
- Department of Zoology, Central University of Punjab, Ghudda, Bathinda 151401, India
| | - Kailash Jangid
- Department of Chemistry, Central University of Punjab, Ghudda, Bathinda 151401, India
| | - Vinod Kumar
- Department of Chemistry, Central University of Punjab, Ghudda, Bathinda 151401, India
| | - Monisha Dhiman
- Department of Microbiology, Central University of Punjab, Ghudda, Bathinda 151401, India
| | - Vikas Jaitak
- Natural Products Chemistry Lab, Department of Pharmaceutical Sciences and Natural Products, Central University of Punjab, Ghudda, Bathinda 151401, India..
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19
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Kamel EM, Alkhayl FFA, Alqhtani HA, Bin-Jumah M, Rudayni HA, Lamsabhi AM. Dissecting molecular mechanisms underlying the inhibition of β-glucuronidase by alkaloids from Hibiscus trionum: Integrating in vitro and in silico perspectives. Comput Biol Med 2024; 180:108969. [PMID: 39089106 DOI: 10.1016/j.compbiomed.2024.108969] [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: 05/14/2024] [Revised: 06/30/2024] [Accepted: 07/29/2024] [Indexed: 08/03/2024]
Abstract
β-Glucuronidase, a crucial enzyme in drug metabolism and detoxification, represents a promising target for therapeutic intervention due to its potential to modulate drug pharmacokinetics and enhance therapeutic efficacy. Herein, we assessed the inhibitory potential of phytochemicals from Hibiscus trionum against β-glucuronidase. Grossamide and grossamide K emerged as the most potent β-glucuronidase inhibitors with IC50 values of 0.73 ± 0.03 and 1.24 ± 0.03 μM, respectively. The investigated alkaloids effectively inhibited β-glucuronidase-catalyzed PNPG hydrolysis through a noncompetitive inhibition mode, whereas steppogenin displayed a mixed inhibition mechanism. Molecular docking analyses highlighted grossamide and grossamide K as inhibitors with the lowest binding free energy, all compounds successfully docked into the same main binding site occupied by the reference drug Epigallocatechin gallate (EGCG). We explored the interaction dynamics of isolated compounds with β-glucuronidase through a 200 ns molecular dynamics (MD) simulation. Analysis of various MD parameters revealed that grossamide and grossamide K maintained stable trajectories and demonstrated significant energy stabilization upon binding to β-glucuronidase. Additionally, these compounds exhibited the lowest average interaction energies with the target enzyme. The MM/PBSA calculations further supported these findings, showing the lowest binding free energies for grossamide and grossamide K. These computational results are consistent with experimental data, suggesting that grossamide and grossamide K could be potent inhibitors of β-glucuronidase.
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Affiliation(s)
- Emadeldin M Kamel
- Chemistry Department, Faculty of Science, Beni-Suef University, Beni-Suef, 62514, Egypt.
| | - Faris F Aba Alkhayl
- Department of Medical Laboratories, College of Applied Medical Sciences, Qassim University, 51452, Buraydah, Saudi Arabia
| | - Haifa A Alqhtani
- Department of Biology, College of Science, Princess Nourah bint Abdulrahman University, P.O. BOX 84428, Riyadh, 11671, Saudi Arabia
| | - May Bin-Jumah
- Department of Biology, College of Science, Princess Nourah bint Abdulrahman University, P.O. BOX 84428, Riyadh, 11671, Saudi Arabia
| | - Hassan A Rudayni
- Department of Biology, College of Science, Imam Mohammad Ibn Saud Islamic University, Riyadh, 11623, Saudi Arabia
| | - Al Mokhtar Lamsabhi
- Departamento de Química, Módulo 13, Universidad Autónoma de Madrid, Campus de Excelencia UAM-CSIC Cantoblanco, 28049, Madrid, Spain; Institute for Advanced Research in Chemical Sciences (IAdChem), Universidad Autónoma de Madrid, 28049, Madrid, Spain
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20
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Xing G, Zheng Q. Insights into the specific feature of the electrostatic recognition binding mechanism between BM2 and BM1: a molecular dynamics simulation study. Phys Chem Chem Phys 2024; 26:22726-22738. [PMID: 39161312 DOI: 10.1039/d4cp01936a] [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: 08/21/2024]
Abstract
Matrix protein 2 (M2) and matrix protein 1 (M1) of the influenza B virus are two important proteins, and the interactions between BM2 and BM1 play an important role in the process of virus assembly and replication. However, the interaction details between BM2 and BM1 are still unclear at the atomic level. Here, we constructed the BM2-BM1 complex system using homology modelling and molecular docking methods. Molecular dynamics (MD) simulations were used to illustrate the binding mechanism between BM2 and BM1. The results identify that the eight polar residues (E88B, E89B, H119BM1, E94B, R101BM1, K102BM1, R105BM1, and E104B) play an important role in stabilizing the binding through the formation of hydrogen bond networks and salt-bridge interactions at the binding interface. Furthermore, based on the simulation results and the experimental facts, the mutation experiments were designed to verify the influence of the mutation of residues both within and outside the effector domain. The mutations directly or indirectly disrupt interactions between polar residues, thus affecting viral assembly and replication. The results could help us understand the details of the interactions between BM2 and BM1 and provide useful information for the anti-influenza drug design.
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Affiliation(s)
- Guixuan Xing
- Institute of Theoretical Chemistry, College of Chemistry, Jilin University, Changchun 130023, China
| | - Qingchuan Zheng
- School of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Jilin University, Changchun 130021, China.
- Institute of Theoretical Chemistry, College of Chemistry, Jilin University, Changchun 130023, China
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21
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Ning H, Wang K, Zhang Q, Guo L, Wang S, Yang L, Gong Y. Influence of terahertz waves on the binding of choline to choline acetyltransferase: insights from molecular dynamics simulations. Phys Chem Chem Phys 2024; 26:22413-22422. [PMID: 39140173 DOI: 10.1039/d4cp02436b] [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: 08/15/2024]
Abstract
Acetylcholine (Ach) is a common neurotransmitter in the central nervous system (CNS) and peripheral nervous system (PNS). It is one of the neurotransmitters in the autonomic nervous system and the main neurotransmitter in all autonomic ganglia. Experiments have confirmed that electromagnetic waves can affect the synthesis of animal neurotransmitters, but the microscopic effects of electromagnetic waves in the terahertz (THz) frequency band are still unclear. Based on density functional theory (DFT) and molecular dynamics (MD) simulation methods, this paper studies the effect of THz electromagnetic waves on the binding of choline to choline acetyltransferase (ChAT). By emitting THz waves that resonate with the characteristic vibration mode of choline near the active site, it was found that THz waves with a frequency of 45.3 THz affected the binding of choline to ChAT, especially the binding of the active site histidine His324 to choline. The main evidence is that under the action of THz waves, the binding free energy of choline to histidine His324 and ChAT at the active site was significantly reduced compared to noE, which may have a potential impact on the enzymatic synthesis of Ach. It is expected to achieve the purpose of regulating the synthesis of the neurotransmitter Ach under the action of THz waves and treat certain nervous system diseases.
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Affiliation(s)
- Hui Ning
- University of Electronic Science and Technology of China, Chengdu, Sichuan 611731, China.
| | - Kaicheng Wang
- University of Electronic Science and Technology of China, Chengdu, Sichuan 611731, China.
| | - Qin Zhang
- University of Electronic Science and Technology of China, Chengdu, Sichuan 611731, China.
| | - Lianghao Guo
- University of Electronic Science and Technology of China, Chengdu, Sichuan 611731, China.
| | - Shaomeng Wang
- University of Electronic Science and Technology of China, Chengdu, Sichuan 611731, China.
| | - Lixia Yang
- University of Electronic Science and Technology of China, Chengdu, Sichuan 611731, China.
| | - Yubin Gong
- University of Electronic Science and Technology of China, Chengdu, Sichuan 611731, China.
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22
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Duan C, Wang S, Yao Y, Pan Y, Liu G. MFS Transporter as the Molecular Switch Unlocking the Production of Cage-Like Acresorbicillinol C. JOURNAL OF AGRICULTURAL AND FOOD CHEMISTRY 2024; 72:19061-19070. [PMID: 39148224 DOI: 10.1021/acs.jafc.4c05177] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 08/17/2024]
Abstract
Sorbicillinoids are a class of fungal polyketides with diverse structures and distinguished bioactivities. Although remarkable progress has been achieved in their chemistry and biosynthesis, the efflux of sorbicillinoids is poorly understood. Here, we found MFS transporter AcsorT was responsible for the biosynthesis of sorbicillinoids in Acremonium chrysogenum. Combinatorial knockout and subcellular location demonstrated that the plasma membrane-associated AcsorT was responsible for the transportation of sorbicillinol and subsequent formation of oxosorbicillinol and acresorbicillinol C via the berberine bridge enzyme-like oxidase AcsorD in the periplasm. Homology modeling and site-directed mutation revealed that Tyr303 and Arg436 were the key residues of AcsorT, which was further explained by molecular dynamics simulation. Based on our study, it was suggested that AcsorT modulates sorbicillinoid production by coordinating its biosynthesis and export, and a transport model of sorbicillinoids was proposed in A. chrysogenum.
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Affiliation(s)
- Chengbao Duan
- State Key Laboratory of Mycology, Institute of Microbiology, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing 100101, China
- University of Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing 100049, China
| | - Shiyuan Wang
- State Key Laboratory of Mycology, Institute of Microbiology, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing 100101, China
- University of Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing 100049, China
| | - Yongpeng Yao
- State Key Laboratory of Mycology, Institute of Microbiology, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing 100101, China
| | - Yuanyuan Pan
- State Key Laboratory of Mycology, Institute of Microbiology, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing 100101, China
| | - Gang Liu
- State Key Laboratory of Mycology, Institute of Microbiology, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing 100101, China
- University of Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing 100049, China
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23
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Yang JL, Sun X, Shi JX, Cui QX, Cao XY, Wang KT, An MX, Wu SJ, Yang YL, Sun HZ, Zhao WD. Calmodulin Triggers Activity-Dependent rRNA Biogenesis via Interaction with DDX21. J Neurosci 2024; 44:e1841232024. [PMID: 39060175 PMCID: PMC11358605 DOI: 10.1523/jneurosci.1841-23.2024] [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: 09/26/2023] [Revised: 07/11/2024] [Accepted: 07/19/2024] [Indexed: 07/28/2024] Open
Abstract
Protein synthesis in response to neuronal activity, known as activity-dependent translation, is critical for synaptic plasticity and memory formation. However, the signaling cascades that couple neuronal activity to the translational events remain elusive. In this study, we identified the role of calmodulin (CaM), a conserved Ca2+-binding protein, in ribosomal RNA (rRNA) biogenesis in neurons. We found the CaM-regulated rRNA synthesis is Ca2+-dependent and necessary for nascent protein synthesis and axon growth in hippocampal neurons. Mechanistically, CaM interacts with nucleolar DEAD (Asp-Glu-Ala-Asp) box RNA helicase (DDX21) in a Ca2+-dependent manner to regulate nascent rRNA transcription within nucleoli. We further found CaM alters the conformation of DDX21 to liberate the DDX21-sequestered RPA194, the catalytic subunit of RNA polymerase I, to facilitate transcription of ribosomal DNA. Using high-throughput screening, we identified the small molecules batefenterol and indacaterol that attenuate the CaM-DDX21 interaction and suppress nascent rRNA synthesis and axon growth in hippocampal neurons. These results unveiled the previously unrecognized role of CaM as a messenger to link the activity-induced Ca2+ influx to the nucleolar events essential for protein synthesis. We thus identified the ability of CaM to transmit information to the nucleoli of neurons in response to stimulation.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jia-Lin Yang
- Department of Developmental Cell Biology, Key Laboratory of Cell Biology, Ministry of Public Health, and Key Laboratory of Medical Cell Biology, Ministry of Education, China Medical University, Shenyang 110122, China
| | - Xue Sun
- Department of Developmental Cell Biology, Key Laboratory of Cell Biology, Ministry of Public Health, and Key Laboratory of Medical Cell Biology, Ministry of Education, China Medical University, Shenyang 110122, China
| | - Jun-Xiu Shi
- Department of Developmental Cell Biology, Key Laboratory of Cell Biology, Ministry of Public Health, and Key Laboratory of Medical Cell Biology, Ministry of Education, China Medical University, Shenyang 110122, China
| | - Qing-Xu Cui
- Department of Developmental Cell Biology, Key Laboratory of Cell Biology, Ministry of Public Health, and Key Laboratory of Medical Cell Biology, Ministry of Education, China Medical University, Shenyang 110122, China
| | - Xin-Yu Cao
- Department of Developmental Cell Biology, Key Laboratory of Cell Biology, Ministry of Public Health, and Key Laboratory of Medical Cell Biology, Ministry of Education, China Medical University, Shenyang 110122, China
| | - Kai-Tuo Wang
- Department of Developmental Cell Biology, Key Laboratory of Cell Biology, Ministry of Public Health, and Key Laboratory of Medical Cell Biology, Ministry of Education, China Medical University, Shenyang 110122, China
| | - Ming-Xin An
- Department of Developmental Cell Biology, Key Laboratory of Cell Biology, Ministry of Public Health, and Key Laboratory of Medical Cell Biology, Ministry of Education, China Medical University, Shenyang 110122, China
| | - Si-Jin Wu
- Academy of Pharmacy, Xi'an Jiaotong-Liverpool University, Suzhou 215123, China
| | - Yong-Liang Yang
- School of Bioengineering, Dalian University of Technology, Dalian 116024, China
| | - Hong-Zan Sun
- Department of Radiology, Shengjing Hospital of China Medical University, Shenyang 110004, China
| | - Wei-Dong Zhao
- Department of Developmental Cell Biology, Key Laboratory of Cell Biology, Ministry of Public Health, and Key Laboratory of Medical Cell Biology, Ministry of Education, China Medical University, Shenyang 110122, China
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24
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Sasovsky DJ, Angelina E, Leiva LC, Bal de Kier Joffé E, Lomonte B, Bustillo S. Comparative in vitro and in silico analysis of the ability of basic Asp49 phospholipase A 2 and Lys49-phospholipase A 2-like myotoxins from Bothrops diporus venom to inhibit the metastatic potential of murine mammary tumor cells and endothelial cell tubulogenesis. Chem Biol Interact 2024; 402:111217. [PMID: 39197813 DOI: 10.1016/j.cbi.2024.111217] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/10/2024] [Revised: 05/08/2024] [Accepted: 08/26/2024] [Indexed: 09/01/2024]
Abstract
Snake venoms are a complex mixture of proteins and polypeptides that represent a valuable source of potential molecular tools for understanding physiological processes for the development of new drugs. In this study two major PLA2s, named PLA2-I (Asp49) and PLA2-II (Lys49), isolated from the venom of Bothrops diporus from Northeastern Argentina, have shown cytotoxic effects on LM3 murine mammary tumor cells, with PLA2-II-like exhibiting a stronger effect compared to PLA2-I. At sub-cytotoxic levels, both PLA2s inhibited adhesion, migration, and invasion of these adenocarcinoma cells. Moreover, these toxins hindered tubulogenesis in endothelial cells, implicating a potential role in inhibiting tumor angiogenesis. All these inhibitory effects were more pronounced for the catalytically-inactive toxin. Additionally, in silico studies strongly suggest that this PLA2-II-like myotoxin could effectively block fibronectin binding to the integrin receptor, offering a dual advantage over PLA2-I in interacting with the αVβ3 integrin. In conclusion, this study reports for the first time, integrating both in vitro and in silico approaches, a comparative analysis of the antimetastatic and antiangiogenic potential effects of two isoforms, an Asp49 PLA2-I and a Lys49 PLA2-II-like, both isolated from Bothrops diporus venom.
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Affiliation(s)
- Daniela J Sasovsky
- Grupo de Investigaciones Biológicas y Moleculares (GIByM) IQUIBA-NEA-CONICET. Facultad de Ciencias Exactas y Naturales y Agrimensura. Universidad Nacional del Nordeste. Argentina
| | - Emilio Angelina
- Facultad de Ciencias Exactas y Naturales y Agrimensura, Universidad Nacional del Nordeste, Argentina; IQUIBA-NEA-CONICET, Argentina
| | - Laura C Leiva
- Grupo de Investigaciones Biológicas y Moleculares (GIByM) IQUIBA-NEA-CONICET. Facultad de Ciencias Exactas y Naturales y Agrimensura. Universidad Nacional del Nordeste. Argentina
| | - Elisa Bal de Kier Joffé
- Universidad de Buenos Aires, Facultad de Medicina, Instituto de Oncología Angel H Roffo, Área Investigación. Argentina
| | - Bruno Lomonte
- Instituto Clodomiro Picado, Facultad de Microbiología, Universidad de Costa Rica, San José 11501, Costa Rica
| | - Soledad Bustillo
- Grupo de Investigaciones Biológicas y Moleculares (GIByM) IQUIBA-NEA-CONICET. Facultad de Ciencias Exactas y Naturales y Agrimensura. Universidad Nacional del Nordeste. Argentina.
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25
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Zaki K, Ouabane M, Guendouzi A, Sbai A, Sekkate C, Bouachrine M, Lakhlifi T. From farm to pharma: Investigation of the therapeutic potential of the dietary plants Apium graveolens L., Coriandrum sativum, and Mentha longifolia, as AhR modulators for Immunotherapy. Comput Biol Med 2024; 181:109051. [PMID: 39186905 DOI: 10.1016/j.compbiomed.2024.109051] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/14/2024] [Revised: 08/01/2024] [Accepted: 08/20/2024] [Indexed: 08/28/2024]
Abstract
Autoimmune diseases represent a complex array of conditions where the body's immune system mistakenly attacks its own tissues. These disorders, affecting millions worldwide, encompass a broad spectrum of conditions ranging from rheumatoid arthritis and multiple sclerosis to lupus and type 1 diabetes. The Aryl hydrocarbon receptor (AhR) translocator, expressed across immune and other cell types, plays crucial roles in immune disorders and inflammatory diseases. With a realm towards natural remedies in modern medicine for disease prevention, this study investigates the electronic properties and behaviors of bioactive compounds from dietary sources, including Apium graveolens L. (Celery), Coriandrum sativum seeds (Coriander), and Mentha longifolia, as AhR modulators. Through comprehensive analysis (HOMO-LUMO, ESP, LOL, and ELF), electron-rich and -poor regions, electron localization, and delocalization are identified, contrasting these compounds with the toxic AhR ligand, TCDD. Evaluation of Absorption, Distribution, Metabolism, Excretion, and Toxicity (ADMET) properties reveals favorable pharmacokinetics without blood-brain barrier penetration, indicating drug-like characteristics. Molecular docking demonstrates stronger interactions of dietary flavonoid ligands with AhR transcription compared to TCDD. Molecular dynamics simulations confirm the stability of complexes and the sustainability of interactions formed. This research underscores the potential of natural compounds as effective AhR modulators for therapeutic interventions in immune-related disorders.
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Affiliation(s)
- Khadija Zaki
- Molecular Chemistry and Natural Substances Laboratory, Moulay Ismail University, Faculty of Science, Meknes, Morocco
| | - Mohamed Ouabane
- Molecular Chemistry and Natural Substances Laboratory, Moulay Ismail University, Faculty of Science, Meknes, Morocco; Chemistry-Biology Applied to the Environment URL CNRT 13, Department of Chemistry, Faculty of Science, My Ismail University, Meknes, Morocco
| | - Abdelkrim Guendouzi
- Laboratory of Chemistry, Synthesis, Properties and Applications, Department of Chemistry, Faculty of Science, University of Saida, Algeria
| | - Abdelouahid Sbai
- Molecular Chemistry and Natural Substances Laboratory, Moulay Ismail University, Faculty of Science, Meknes, Morocco.
| | - Chakib Sekkate
- Chemistry-Biology Applied to the Environment URL CNRT 13, Department of Chemistry, Faculty of Science, My Ismail University, Meknes, Morocco
| | - Mohammed Bouachrine
- Molecular Chemistry and Natural Substances Laboratory, Moulay Ismail University, Faculty of Science, Meknes, Morocco
| | - Tahar Lakhlifi
- Molecular Chemistry and Natural Substances Laboratory, Moulay Ismail University, Faculty of Science, Meknes, Morocco
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26
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Li K, Liu L. Computational design and experimental confirmation of a disulfide-stapled YAP helix α1-trap derived from TEAD4 helical hairpin to selectively capture YAP α1-helix with potent antitumor activity. J Comput Aided Mol Des 2024; 38:31. [PMID: 39177727 DOI: 10.1007/s10822-024-00572-2] [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: 04/07/2024] [Accepted: 08/14/2024] [Indexed: 08/24/2024]
Abstract
Human Hippo signaling pathway is an evolutionarily conserved regulator network that controls organ development and has been implicated in various cancers. Transcriptional enhanced associate domain-4 (TEAD4) is the final nuclear effector of Hippo pathway, which is activated by Yes-associated protein (YAP) through binding to two separated YAP regions of α1-helix and Ω-loop. Previous efforts have all been addressed on deriving peptide inhibitors from the YAP to target TEAD4. Instead, we herein attempted to rationally design a so-called 'YAP helixα1-trap' based on the TEAD4 to target YAP by using dynamics simulation and energetics analysis as well as experimental assays at molecular and cellular levels. The trap represents a native double-stranded helical hairpin covering a specific YAP-binding site on TEAD4 surface, which is expected to form a three-helix bundle with the α1-helical region of YAP, thus competitively disrupting TEAD4-YAP interaction. The hairpin was further stapled by a disulfide bridge across its two helical arms. Circular dichroism characterized that the stapling can effectively constrain the trap into a native-like structured conformation in free state, thus largely minimizing the entropy penalty upon its binding to YAP. Affinity assays revealed that the stapling can considerably improve the trap binding potency to YAP α1-helix by up to 8.5-fold at molecular level, which also exhibited a good tumor-suppressing effect at cellular level if fused with TAT cell permeation sequence. In this respect, it is considered that the YAP helixα1-trap-mediated blockade of Hippo pathway may be a new and promising therapeutic strategy against cancers.
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Affiliation(s)
- Kaipeng Li
- School of Chemistry and Chemical Engineering, Jinggangshan University, No. 28, Xueyuan Road, Ji'an, 343009, China
| | - Lijun Liu
- School of Chemistry and Chemical Engineering, Jinggangshan University, No. 28, Xueyuan Road, Ji'an, 343009, China.
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27
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Lian M, Song Z, Xiao Y, Yao Z, Zhu G, Tian E, Gao Y, Dong M, Mao S, Liu Y, Li Y, Lu F, Wang F. Semi-rational design based on the interaction between SmFMO and FAD isoalloxazine ring to enhance the enzyme activity. Biochem Biophys Res Commun 2024; 733:150575. [PMID: 39197199 DOI: 10.1016/j.bbrc.2024.150575] [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: 08/13/2024] [Accepted: 08/20/2024] [Indexed: 09/01/2024]
Abstract
Flavin monooxygenases (FMOs) have been widely used in the biosynthesis of natural compounds due to their excellent stereoselectivity, regioselectivity and chemoselectivity. Stenotrophomonas maltophilia flavin monooxygenase (SmFMO) has been reported to catalyze the oxidation of various thiols to corresponding sulfoxides, but its activity is relatively low. Herein, we obtained a mutant SmFMOF52G which showed 4.35-fold increase in kcat/Km (4.96 mM-1s-1) and 6.84-fold increase in enzyme activity (81.76 U/g) compared to the SmFMOWT (1.14 mM-1s-1 and 11.95 U/g) through semi-rational design guided by structural analysis and catalytic mechanism combined with high-throughput screening. By forming hydrogen bond with O4 atom of FAD isoalloxazine ring and reducing steric hindrance, the conformation of FAD isoalloxazine ring in SmFMOF52G is more stable, and NADPH and substrate are closer to FAD isoalloxazine ring, shortening the distances of hydrogen transfer and substrate oxygenation, thereby increasing the rate of reduction and oxidation reactions and enhancing enzyme activity. Additionally, the overall structural stability and substrate binding capacity of the SmFMOF52G have significant improved than that of SmFMOWT. The strategy used in this study to improve the enzyme activity of FMOs may have generality, providing important references for the rational and semi-rational engineering of FMOs.
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Affiliation(s)
- Mengka Lian
- Key Laboratory of Industrial Fermentation Microbiology, Ministry of Education, Tianjin Key Laboratory of Industrial Microbiology, College of Biotechnology, Tianjin University of Science and Technology, Tianjin, 300457, PR China
| | - Zhaolin Song
- Key Laboratory of Industrial Fermentation Microbiology, Ministry of Education, Tianjin Key Laboratory of Industrial Microbiology, College of Biotechnology, Tianjin University of Science and Technology, Tianjin, 300457, PR China
| | - Yunjie Xiao
- School of Life Sciences, Tianjin University, Tianjin, 300072, PR China
| | - Zhiming Yao
- Key Laboratory of Industrial Fermentation Microbiology, Ministry of Education, Tianjin Key Laboratory of Industrial Microbiology, College of Biotechnology, Tianjin University of Science and Technology, Tianjin, 300457, PR China
| | - Gang Zhu
- Key Laboratory of Industrial Fermentation Microbiology, Ministry of Education, Tianjin Key Laboratory of Industrial Microbiology, College of Biotechnology, Tianjin University of Science and Technology, Tianjin, 300457, PR China
| | - Enhua Tian
- Key Laboratory of Industrial Fermentation Microbiology, Ministry of Education, Tianjin Key Laboratory of Industrial Microbiology, College of Biotechnology, Tianjin University of Science and Technology, Tianjin, 300457, PR China
| | - Yuying Gao
- Key Laboratory of Industrial Fermentation Microbiology, Ministry of Education, Tianjin Key Laboratory of Industrial Microbiology, College of Biotechnology, Tianjin University of Science and Technology, Tianjin, 300457, PR China
| | - Mengjun Dong
- Key Laboratory of Industrial Fermentation Microbiology, Ministry of Education, Tianjin Key Laboratory of Industrial Microbiology, College of Biotechnology, Tianjin University of Science and Technology, Tianjin, 300457, PR China
| | - Shuhong Mao
- Key Laboratory of Industrial Fermentation Microbiology, Ministry of Education, Tianjin Key Laboratory of Industrial Microbiology, College of Biotechnology, Tianjin University of Science and Technology, Tianjin, 300457, PR China
| | - Yihan Liu
- Key Laboratory of Industrial Fermentation Microbiology, Ministry of Education, Tianjin Key Laboratory of Industrial Microbiology, College of Biotechnology, Tianjin University of Science and Technology, Tianjin, 300457, PR China
| | - Yu Li
- Key Laboratory of Industrial Fermentation Microbiology, Ministry of Education, Tianjin Key Laboratory of Industrial Microbiology, College of Biotechnology, Tianjin University of Science and Technology, Tianjin, 300457, PR China.
| | - Fuping Lu
- Key Laboratory of Industrial Fermentation Microbiology, Ministry of Education, Tianjin Key Laboratory of Industrial Microbiology, College of Biotechnology, Tianjin University of Science and Technology, Tianjin, 300457, PR China.
| | - Fenghua Wang
- Key Laboratory of Industrial Fermentation Microbiology, Ministry of Education, Tianjin Key Laboratory of Industrial Microbiology, College of Biotechnology, Tianjin University of Science and Technology, Tianjin, 300457, PR China.
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28
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Li Z, Peng Y, Ye H, Zhang Y, Zhou P. The C-terminal self-binding helical peptide of human estrogen-related receptor γ can be druggably targeted by a novel class of rationally designed peptidic antagonists. J Comput Chem 2024. [PMID: 39158951 DOI: 10.1002/jcc.27473] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/28/2024] [Revised: 07/06/2024] [Accepted: 07/17/2024] [Indexed: 08/20/2024]
Abstract
Orphan nuclear estrogen-related receptor γ (ERRγ) has been recognized as a potential therapeutic target for cancer, inflammation and metabolic disorder. The ERRγ contains a regulatory AF2 helical tail linked C-terminally to its ligand-binding domain (LBD), which is a self-binding peptide (SBP) and serves as molecular switch to dynamically regulate the receptor alternation between active and inactive states by binding to and unbinding from the AF2-binding site on ERRγ LBD surface, respectively. Traditional ERRγ modulators are all small-molecule chemical ligands that can be classified into agonists and inverse agonists in terms of their action mechanism; the agonists stabilize the AF2 in ABS site with an agonist conformation, while the inverse agonists lock the AF2 out of the site to largely abolish ERRγ transcriptional activity. Here, a class of ERRγ peptidic antagonists was described to compete with native AF2 for the ABS site, thus blocking the active state of AF2 binding to ERRγ LBD domain. Self-inhibitory peptide was derived from the SBP-covering AF2 region and we expected it can rebind potently to the ABS site by reducing its intrinsic disorder and entropy cost upon the rebinding. Hydrocarbon stapling was employed to do so, which employed an all-hydrocarbon bridge across the [i, i + 4]-anchor residue pair in the N-terminal, middle or C-terminal region of the self-inhibitory peptide. As might be expected, it is revealed that the stapled peptides are good binders of ERRγ LBD domain and can effectively compete with the native AF2 helical tail for ERRγ ABS site, which exhibit a basically similar binding mode with AF2 to the site and form diverse noncovalent interactions with the site, thus conferring stability and specificity to the domain-peptide complexes.
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Affiliation(s)
- Zilong Li
- Center for Informational Biology, School of Life Science and Technology, University of Electronic Science and Technology of China (UESTC), Chengdu, China
| | - Yue Peng
- Center for Informational Biology, School of Life Science and Technology, University of Electronic Science and Technology of China (UESTC), Chengdu, China
| | - Haiyang Ye
- Center for Informational Biology, School of Life Science and Technology, University of Electronic Science and Technology of China (UESTC), Chengdu, China
| | - Yunyi Zhang
- Center for Informational Biology, School of Life Science and Technology, University of Electronic Science and Technology of China (UESTC), Chengdu, China
| | - Peng Zhou
- Center for Informational Biology, School of Life Science and Technology, University of Electronic Science and Technology of China (UESTC), Chengdu, China
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29
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Rabaan AA, Alshahrani MA, Othman B, Alfaresi M, Almutawif YA, Eid HMA, Saif A, Alshehri AA. Investigation of potential ascorbate peroxidase inhibitors for anti-leishmaniasis therapy. Folia Microbiol (Praha) 2024:10.1007/s12223-024-01190-z. [PMID: 39153157 DOI: 10.1007/s12223-024-01190-z] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/04/2024] [Accepted: 08/06/2024] [Indexed: 08/19/2024]
Abstract
L eishmaniasis is a prevalent disease that impacts 98 countries and territories, mainly in Africa, Asia, and South America. It can cause substantial illness and death, particularly in its visceral manifestation that can be specifically targeted in the development of medications to combat leishmaniasis. This study has found natural compounds with possible inhibitory activity against APX using a reliable and accurate QSAR model. Despite the severe side effects of current treatments and the absence of an effective vaccination, these compounds show promise as a potential treatment for the disease. Nine hit compounds were found, and subsequent molecular docking was performed. Estradiol cypionate showed the lowest binding energy (- 10.5 kcal/mol), thus showing the strongest binding, and also had the strongest binding affinity, with a ΔGTotal of - 26.31 ± 3.01 kcal/mol, second only to the control molecule. Additionally, three hits viz. cloxacillin-sodium (- 16.57 ± 2.89 kcal/mol), cinchonidine (- 16.04 ± 3.27 kcal/mol), and quinine hydrochloride dihydrate (13.38 ± 1.06 kcal/mol) also showed significant binding affinity. Multiple interactions between drugs and active site residues demonstrated a substantial binding affinity with the target protein. The identified compounds exhibited drug-like effects and were orally bioavailable based on their ADME-toxicology features. Overall, estradiol cypionate, cloxacillin sodium, cinchonidine, and quinine hydrochloride dihydrate all exhibited inhibitory effects on the APX enzyme of Leishmania donovani. These results suggest that further investigation is needed to explore the potential of developing novel anti-leishmaniasis drugs using these compounds.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ali A Rabaan
- Molecular Diagnostic Laboratory, Johns Hopkins Aramco Healthcare, 31,311, Dhahran, Saudi Arabia.
- College of Medicine, Alfaisal University, Riyadh, Saudi Arabia, 11,533.
- Department of Public Health and Nutrition, The University of Haripur, Haripur, Pakistan, 22,610.
| | - Mohammed Abdulrahman Alshahrani
- Department of Clinical Laboratory Sciences, Faculty of Applied Medical Sciences, Najran University, Najran, Saudi Arabia, 61,441
| | - Basim Othman
- Department of Public Health, Faculty of Applied Medical Sciences,, Albaha University, Albaha, Saudi Arabia, 65,77
| | - Mubarak Alfaresi
- Department of Microbiology, National Reference Laboratory, Cleveland Clinic Abu Dhabi, Abu Dhabi, United Arab Emirates, 92,323
- Department of Pathology, College of Medicine, Mohammed Bin Rashid University of Medicine and Health Sciences, Dubai, United Arab Emirates, 505,055
| | - Yahya A Almutawif
- Department of Medical Laboratories Technology, College of Applied Medical Sciences, Taibah University, Madinah, Saudi Arabia, 41,411
| | - Hamza M A Eid
- Department of Medical Laboratories Technology, College of Applied Medical Sciences, Taibah University, Madinah, Saudi Arabia, 41,411
| | - Ahmed Saif
- Department of Clinical Laboratory Sciences, College of Applied Medical Sciences, King Khalid University, Abha, Saudi Arabia, 62,223
| | - Ahmad A Alshehri
- Department of Clinical Laboratory Sciences, Faculty of Applied Medical Sciences, Najran University, Najran, Saudi Arabia, 61,441.
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McDonald-Ramos JS, Hicklin IK, Yang Z, Brown AM. Identification of small molecule inhibitors of the Chloracidobacterium thermophilum type IV pilus protein PilB by ensemble virtual screening. Arch Biochem Biophys 2024; 760:110127. [PMID: 39154818 DOI: 10.1016/j.abb.2024.110127] [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: 06/28/2024] [Revised: 08/13/2024] [Accepted: 08/15/2024] [Indexed: 08/20/2024]
Abstract
Antivirulence strategy has been explored as an alternative to traditional antibiotic development. The bacterial type IV pilus is a virulence factor involved in host invasion and colonization in many antibiotic resistant pathogens. The PilB ATPase hydrolyzes ATP to drive the assembly of the pilus filament from pilin subunits. We evaluated Chloracidobacterium thermophilum PilB (CtPilB) as a model for structure-based virtual screening by molecular docking and molecular dynamics (MD) simulations. A hexameric structure of CtPilB was generated through homology modeling based on an existing crystal structure of a PilB from Geobacter metallireducens. Four representative structures were obtained from molecular dynamics simulations to examine the conformational plasticity of PilB and improve docking analyses by ensemble docking. Structural analyses after 1 μs of simulation revealed conformational changes in individual PilB subunits are dependent on ligand presence. Further, ensemble virtual screening of a library of 4234 compounds retrieved from the ZINC15 database identified five promising PilB inhibitors. Molecular docking and binding analyses using the four representative structures from MD simulations revealed that top-ranked compounds interact with multiple Walker A residues, one Asp-box residue, and one arginine finger, indicating these are key residues in inhibitor binding within the ATP binding pocket. The use of multiple conformations in molecular screening can provide greater insight into compound flexibility within receptor sites and better inform future drug development for therapeutics targeting the type IV pilus assembly ATPase.
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Affiliation(s)
| | | | - Zhaomin Yang
- Department of Biological Sciences, USA; Center for Drug Discovery, USA; Center for Emerging, Zoonotic and Arthropod-borne Pathogens, USA.
| | - Anne M Brown
- Department of Biochemistry, USA; Center for Drug Discovery, USA; Center for Emerging, Zoonotic and Arthropod-borne Pathogens, USA; University Libraries, Virginia Tech, Blacksburg, VA, 24061, USA.
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Oduro-Kwateng E, Ali M, Kehinde IO, Zhang Z, Soliman MES. De Novo Rational Design of Peptide-Based Protein-Protein Inhibitors (Pep-PPIs) Approach by Mapping the Interaction Motifs of the PP Interface and Physicochemical Filtration: A Case on p25-Cdk5-Mediated Neurodegenerative Diseases. J Cell Biochem 2024:e30633. [PMID: 39148280 DOI: 10.1002/jcb.30633] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/06/2024] [Revised: 07/10/2024] [Accepted: 07/18/2024] [Indexed: 08/17/2024]
Abstract
Protein-protein interactions, or PPIs, are a part of every biological activity and have been linked to a number of diseases, including cancer, infectious diseases, and neurological disorders. As such, targeting PPIs is considered a strategic and vital approach in the development of new medications. Nonetheless, the wide and flat contact interface makes it difficult to find small-molecule PP inhibitors. An alternative strategy would be to use the PPI interaction motifs as building blocks for the design of peptide-based inhibitors. Herein, we designed 12-mer peptide inhibitors to target p25-inducing-cyclin-dependent kinase (Cdk5) hyperregulation, a PPI that has been shown to perpetuate neuroinflammation, which is one of the major causal implications of neurodegenerative disorders such as Alzheimer's disease, Parkinson's disease, and frontotemporal dementia. We generated a library of 5 062 500 peptide combination sequences (PCS) derived from the interaction motif of Cdk5/p25 PP interface. The 20 amino acids were differentiated into six groups, namely, hydrophobic (aliphatic), aromatic, basic, acidic, unique, and polar uncharged, on the basis of their physiochemical properties. To preserve the interaction motif necessary for ideal binding, de novo modeling of all possible peptide sequence substitutions was considered. A set of filters, backed by the Support Vector Machine (SVM) algorithm, was then used to create a shortlisted custom peptide library that met specific bioavailability, toxicity, and therapeutic relevance, leading to a refined library of 15 PCS. A greedy algorithm and coarse-grained force field were used to predict peptide structure and folding before subsequent modeling studies. Molecular docking was performed to estimate the relative binding affinities, and out of the top hits, Pep15 was subjected to molecular dynamics simulations and binding free-energy calculations in comparison to a known peptide inhibitor with experimental data (template peptide). Interestingly, the identified peptide through our protocol, Pep15, was found to show a significantly higher binding affinity than the reference template peptide (-48.10 ± 0.23 kcal/mol and -17.53 ± 0.27 kcal/mol, respectively). In comparison to the template peptide, Pep15 was found to possess a more compact and buried surface area, tighter binding landscape, and reduced conformational variability, leading to enhanced structural and kinetic stability of the Cdk5/p25 complex. Notably, both peptide inhibitors were found to have a minimal impact on the architectural integrity of the Cdk5/p25 secondary structure. Herein, we propose Pep15 as a novel and potentially disruptive peptide drug for Cdk5/p25-mediated neurodegenerative phenotypes that require further clinical investigation. The systematic protocol and findings of this report would serve as a valuable tool in the identification of critical PPI interface reactive residues, designing of analogs, and identification of more potent peptide-based PPI inhibitors.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ernest Oduro-Kwateng
- Molecular Bio-Computation and Drug Design Research Group, School of Health Sciences, University of KwaZulu Natal, Westville Campus, Durban, South Africa
| | - Musab Ali
- Molecular Bio-Computation and Drug Design Research Group, School of Health Sciences, University of KwaZulu Natal, Westville Campus, Durban, South Africa
| | - Ibrahim Oluwatobi Kehinde
- Molecular Bio-Computation and Drug Design Research Group, School of Health Sciences, University of KwaZulu Natal, Westville Campus, Durban, South Africa
| | - Zhichao Zhang
- School of Chemistry, Dalian University of Technology, Dalian, Liaoning, China
| | - Mahmoud E S Soliman
- Molecular Bio-Computation and Drug Design Research Group, School of Health Sciences, University of KwaZulu Natal, Westville Campus, Durban, South Africa
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Paurević M, Maršavelski A, Ivanković S, Stojković R, Ribić R. Di-mannosylation enhances the adjuvant properties of adamantane-containing desmuramyl peptides in vivo. Org Biomol Chem 2024; 22:6506-6519. [PMID: 38884368 DOI: 10.1039/d4ob00592a] [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: 06/18/2024]
Abstract
Muramyl dipeptide (MDP) is the smallest essential peptidoglycan substructure capable of promoting both innate and adaptive immune responses. Herein, we report on the design, synthesis, and in vivo study of the adjuvant properties of two novel MDP analogs containing an achiral adamantyl moiety attached to the desmuramyl dipeptide (DMP) pharmacophore and additionally modified by one mannosyl subunit (derivative 7) or two mannosyl subunits (derivative 11). Mannose substructures were introduced in order to assess how the degree of mannosylation affects the immune response and nucleotide-binding oligomerization-domain-containing protein 2 (NOD2) binding affinity, compared to the reference compound ManAdDMP. Both mannosylated MDP analogs showed improved immunomodulating properties, while the di-mannosylated derivative 11 displayed the highest, statistically significant increase in anti-OVA IgG production. In this study, for the first time, the di-mannosylated DMP derivative was synthesized and immunologically evaluated. Derivative 11 stimulates a Th-2-polarized type of immune reaction, similar to the reference compound ManAdDMP and MDP. Molecular dynamics (MD) simulations demonstrate that 11 has a higher NOD2 binding affinity than 7, indicating that introducing the second mannose significantly contributes to the binding affinity. Mannose interacts with key amino acid residues from the LRR hydrophobic pocket of the NOD2 receptor and loop 2.
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Affiliation(s)
- Marija Paurević
- Department of Chemistry, Josip Juraj Strossmayer University Osijek, HR-31000 Osijek, Croatia.
| | - Aleksandra Maršavelski
- Department of Chemistry, Faculty of Science, University of Zagreb, HR-10000 Zagreb, Croatia.
| | - Siniša Ivanković
- Ruđer Bošković Institute, Bijenička Cesta 54, 10000 Zagreb, Croatia.
| | - Ranko Stojković
- Ruđer Bošković Institute, Bijenička Cesta 54, 10000 Zagreb, Croatia.
| | - Rosana Ribić
- University Center Varaždin, University North, HR-42000 Varaždin, Croatia.
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Gao P, Tan J, Peng X, Song Y, Qu M, Chen M. Expression Pattern of RpCSP6 from Rhopalosiphum padi and Its Binding Mechanism with Deltamethrin: Insights into Chemosensory Protein-Mediated Insecticide Resistance. JOURNAL OF AGRICULTURAL AND FOOD CHEMISTRY 2024; 72:17847-17857. [PMID: 39088794 DOI: 10.1021/acs.jafc.4c03368] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 08/03/2024]
Abstract
The mechanisms of insecticide resistance are complex. Recent studies have revealed a novel mechanism involving the chemosensory system in insecticide resistance. However, the specific binding mechanism between olfactory-related genes and insecticides needs to be clarified. In this study, the binding mechanism between pyrethroid insecticide deltamethrin and RpCSP6 from Rhopalosiphum padi was investigated by using computational and multiple experimental methods. RpCSP6 was expressed in different tissues and developmental stages of R. padi and can be induced by deltamethrin. Knockdown of RpCSP6 significantly increased the susceptibility of R. padi to deltamethrin. The binding affinity of RpCSP6 to 24 commonly used insecticides was measured. Seven key residues were found to steadily interact with deltamethrin, indicating their significance in the binding affinity to the insecticide. Our research provided insights for effectively analyzing the binding mechanism of insect CSPs with insecticides, facilitating the development of new and effective insecticides that target insect CSPs.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ping Gao
- State Key Laboratory of Crop Stress Biology for Arid Areas, Key Laboratory of Plant Protection Resources and Pest Management of Ministry of Education, Key Laboratory of Integrated Pest Management on Crops in Northwestern Loess Plateau of Ministry of Agriculture and Rural Affairs, College of Plant Protection, Northwest A&F University, Yangling, Shaanxi 712100, China
| | - Junjie Tan
- State Key Laboratory of Crop Stress Biology for Arid Areas, Key Laboratory of Plant Protection Resources and Pest Management of Ministry of Education, Key Laboratory of Integrated Pest Management on Crops in Northwestern Loess Plateau of Ministry of Agriculture and Rural Affairs, College of Plant Protection, Northwest A&F University, Yangling, Shaanxi 712100, China
| | - Xiong Peng
- State Key Laboratory of Crop Stress Biology for Arid Areas, Key Laboratory of Plant Protection Resources and Pest Management of Ministry of Education, Key Laboratory of Integrated Pest Management on Crops in Northwestern Loess Plateau of Ministry of Agriculture and Rural Affairs, College of Plant Protection, Northwest A&F University, Yangling, Shaanxi 712100, China
| | - Yue Song
- State Key Laboratory of Crop Stress Biology for Arid Areas, Key Laboratory of Plant Protection Resources and Pest Management of Ministry of Education, Key Laboratory of Integrated Pest Management on Crops in Northwestern Loess Plateau of Ministry of Agriculture and Rural Affairs, College of Plant Protection, Northwest A&F University, Yangling, Shaanxi 712100, China
| | - Mingjing Qu
- Shandong Academy of Agricultural Sciences, Shandong Peanut Research Institute, Qingdao, Shandong 266100, China
| | - Maohua Chen
- State Key Laboratory of Crop Stress Biology for Arid Areas, Key Laboratory of Plant Protection Resources and Pest Management of Ministry of Education, Key Laboratory of Integrated Pest Management on Crops in Northwestern Loess Plateau of Ministry of Agriculture and Rural Affairs, College of Plant Protection, Northwest A&F University, Yangling, Shaanxi 712100, China
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Asmare MM, Yun SI. E-pharmacophore and deep learning based high throughput virtual screening for identification of CDPK1 inhibitors of Cryptosporidium parvum. Comput Biol Chem 2024; 112:108172. [PMID: 39191165 DOI: 10.1016/j.compbiolchem.2024.108172] [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: 06/08/2024] [Revised: 08/07/2024] [Accepted: 08/12/2024] [Indexed: 08/29/2024]
Abstract
Cryptosporidiosis, a prevalent gastrointestinal illness worldwide, is caused by the protozoan parasite Cryptosporidium parvum. Calcium-dependent protein kinase 1 (CpCDPK1), crucial for the parasite's life cycle, serves as a promising drug target due to its role in regulating invasion and egress from host cells. While potent Pyrazolopyrimidine analogs have been identified as candidate hit molecules, they exhibit limitations in inhibiting Cryptosporidium growth in cell culture, prompting exploration of alternative scaffolds. Leveraging the most potent compound, RM-1-95, co-crystallized with CpCDPK1, an E-pharmacophore model was generated and validated alongside a deep learning model trained on known CpCDPK1 compounds. These models facilitated screening Enamine's 2 million HTS compound library for novel CpCDPK1 inhibitors. Subsequent hierarchical docking prioritized hits, with final selections subjected to Quantum polarized docking for accurate ranking. Results from docking studies and MD simulations highlighted similarities in interactions between the cocrystallized ligand RM-1-95 and identified hit molecules, indicating comparable inhibitory potential against CpCDPK1. Furthermore, assessing metabolic stability through Cytochrome 450 site of metabolism prediction offered crucial insights for drug design, optimization, and regulatory approval processes.
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Affiliation(s)
- Misgana Mengistu Asmare
- Department of Agricultural Convergence Technology, College of Agriculture and Life Science, Jeonbuk National University, 567 Baekje-daero, Deokjin-gu, Jeonju-si, Jeollabuk-do 54896, Republic of Korea.
| | - Soon-Il Yun
- Department of Agricultural Convergence Technology, College of Agriculture and Life Science, Jeonbuk National University, 567 Baekje-daero, Deokjin-gu, Jeonju-si, Jeollabuk-do 54896, Republic of Korea; Department of Food Science and Technology, College of Agriculture and Life Sciences, Jeonbuk National University, 567 Baekje-daero, Deokjin-gu, Jeonju-si, Jeollabuk-do 54896, Republic of Korea.
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35
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Prat A, Abdel Aty H, Bastas O, Kamuntavičius G, Paquet T, Norvaišas P, Gasparotto P, Tal R. HydraScreen: A Generalizable Structure-Based Deep Learning Approach to Drug Discovery. J Chem Inf Model 2024; 64:5817-5831. [PMID: 39037942 DOI: 10.1021/acs.jcim.4c00481] [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: 07/24/2024]
Abstract
We propose HydraScreen, a deep-learning framework for safe and robust accelerated drug discovery. HydraScreen utilizes a state-of-the-art 3D convolutional neural network designed for the effective representation of molecular structures and interactions in protein-ligand binding. We designed an end-to-end pipeline for high-throughput screening and lead optimization, targeting applications in structure-based drug design. We assessed our approach using established public benchmarks based on the CASF-2016 core set, achieving top-tier results in affinity and pose prediction (Pearson's r = 0.86, RMSE = 1.15, Top-1 = 0.95). We introduced a novel approach for interaction profiling, aimed at detecting potential biases within both the model and data sets. This approach not only enhanced interpretability but also reinforced the impartiality of our methodology. Finally, we demonstrated HydraScreen's ability to generalize effectively across novel proteins and ligands through a temporal split. We also provide insights into potential avenues for future development aimed at enhancing the robustness of machine learning scoring functions. HydraScreen (accessible at http://hydrascreen.ro5.ai/paper) provides a user-friendly GUI and a public API, facilitating the easy-access assessment of protein-ligand complexes.
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Affiliation(s)
- Alvaro Prat
- AI Chemistry, Ro5 2801 Gateway Drive, Irving, 75063 Texas, United States
| | - Hisham Abdel Aty
- AI Chemistry, Ro5 2801 Gateway Drive, Irving, 75063 Texas, United States
| | - Orestis Bastas
- AI Chemistry, Ro5 2801 Gateway Drive, Irving, 75063 Texas, United States
| | | | - Tanya Paquet
- AI Chemistry, Ro5 2801 Gateway Drive, Irving, 75063 Texas, United States
| | - Povilas Norvaišas
- AI Chemistry, Ro5 2801 Gateway Drive, Irving, 75063 Texas, United States
| | - Piero Gasparotto
- AI Chemistry, Ro5 2801 Gateway Drive, Irving, 75063 Texas, United States
| | - Roy Tal
- AI Chemistry, Ro5 2801 Gateway Drive, Irving, 75063 Texas, United States
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Wang R, Tan X, Liu Y, Fan L, Yan Q, Chen C, Wang W, Zhang W, Ren Z, Ning X, Wei S, Ku T, Sang N. Triazole fungicides disrupt embryonic stem cell differentiation: Potential modulatory role of the retinoic acid signaling pathway. ECOTOXICOLOGY AND ENVIRONMENTAL SAFETY 2024; 283:116859. [PMID: 39137466 DOI: 10.1016/j.ecoenv.2024.116859] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/15/2024] [Revised: 07/31/2024] [Accepted: 08/07/2024] [Indexed: 08/15/2024]
Abstract
The developmental toxicity and human health risks of triazole fungicides (TFs) have attracted worldwide attention due to the ability to enter the human body in a variety of ways. Nevertheless, the specific mechanism by which TFs exert remains incompletely understood. Given that retinoic acid (RA) signaling pathway are closely related to development, this study aimed to screen and identify developmentally disabled chemicals in commonly used TFs and to reveal the potential effects of TFs on developmental retardation through the RA signaling pathway in mouse embryonic stem cells (mESCs). Specifically, six typical TFs (myclobutanil, tebuconazole, hexaconazole, propiconazole, difenoconazole, and flusilazole) were exposed through the construction of an embryoid bodies (EBs)-based in vitro global differentiation models. Our results clarified that various TFs disturbed lineage commitment during early embryonic development. Crucially, the activation of RA signaling pathway, which alters the expression of key genes and interferes the transport and metabolism of retinol, may be responsible for this effect. Furthermore, molecular docking, molecular dynamics simulations, and experiments using a retinoic acid receptor α inhibitor provide evidence supporting the potential modulatory role of the retinoic acid signaling pathway in developmental injury. The current study offers new insights into the TFs involved in the RA signaling pathway that interfere with the differentiation process of mESCs, which is crucial for understanding the impact of TFs on pregnancy and early development.
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Affiliation(s)
- Rui Wang
- College of Environment and Resource, Research Center of Environment and Health, Shanxi University, Taiyuan, Shanxi 030006, China
| | - Xin Tan
- College of Environment and Resource, Research Center of Environment and Health, Shanxi University, Taiyuan, Shanxi 030006, China
| | - Yutong Liu
- College of Environment and Resource, Research Center of Environment and Health, Shanxi University, Taiyuan, Shanxi 030006, China
| | - Lifan Fan
- College of Environment and Resource, Research Center of Environment and Health, Shanxi University, Taiyuan, Shanxi 030006, China
| | - Qiqi Yan
- College of Environment and Resource, Research Center of Environment and Health, Shanxi University, Taiyuan, Shanxi 030006, China
| | - Chen Chen
- College of Environment and Resource, Research Center of Environment and Health, Shanxi University, Taiyuan, Shanxi 030006, China
| | - Wenhao Wang
- College of Environment and Resource, Research Center of Environment and Health, Shanxi University, Taiyuan, Shanxi 030006, China
| | - Wanrou Zhang
- College of Environment and Resource, Research Center of Environment and Health, Shanxi University, Taiyuan, Shanxi 030006, China
| | - Zhihua Ren
- College of Environment and Resource, Research Center of Environment and Health, Shanxi University, Taiyuan, Shanxi 030006, China
| | - Xia Ning
- College of Environment and Resource, Research Center of Environment and Health, Shanxi University, Taiyuan, Shanxi 030006, China
| | - Shuting Wei
- NHC Key Laboratory of Pneumoconiosis, Shanxi Key Laboratory of Respiratory Diseases, Department of Pulmonary and Critical Care Medicine, The First Hospital of Shanxi Medical University, Taiyuan 030001, China; First Clinical Medical College, Shanxi Medical University Taiyuan, China
| | - Tingting Ku
- College of Environment and Resource, Research Center of Environment and Health, Shanxi University, Taiyuan, Shanxi 030006, China.
| | - Nan Sang
- College of Environment and Resource, Research Center of Environment and Health, Shanxi University, Taiyuan, Shanxi 030006, China
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Shu Y, Yue J, Li Y, Yin Y, Wang J, Li T, He X, Liang S, Zhang G, Liu Z, Wang Y. Development of human lactate dehydrogenase a inhibitors: high-throughput screening, molecular dynamics simulation and enzyme activity assay. J Comput Aided Mol Des 2024; 38:28. [PMID: 39123063 DOI: 10.1007/s10822-024-00568-y] [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: 03/04/2024] [Accepted: 07/24/2024] [Indexed: 08/12/2024]
Abstract
Lactate dehydrogenase A (LDHA) is highly expressed in many tumor cells and promotes the conversion of pyruvate to lactic acid in the glucose pathway, providing energy and synthetic precursors for rapid proliferation of tumor cells. Therefore, inhibition of LDHA has become a widely concerned tumor treatment strategy. However, the research and development of highly efficient and low toxic LDHA small molecule inhibitors still faces challenges. To discover potential inhibitors against LDHA, virtual screening based on molecular docking techniques was performed from Specs database of more than 260,000 compounds and Chemdiv-smart database of more than 1,000 compounds. Through molecular dynamics (MD) simulation studies, we identified 12 potential LDHA inhibitors, all of which can stably bind to human LDHA protein and form multiple interactions with its active central residues. In order to verify the inhibitory activities of these compounds, we established an enzyme activity assay system and measured their inhibitory effects on recombinant human LDHA. The results showed that Compound 6 could inhibit the catalytic effect of LDHA on pyruvate in a dose-dependent manner with an EC50 value of 14.54 ± 0.83 µM. Further in vitro experiments showed that Compound 6 could significantly inhibit the proliferation of various tumor cell lines such as pancreatic cancer cells and lung cancer cells, reduce intracellular lactic acid content and increase intracellular reactive oxygen species (ROS) level. In summary, through virtual screening and in vitro validation, we found that Compound 6 is a small molecule inhibitor for LDHA, providing a good lead compound for the research and development of LDHA related targeted anti-tumor drugs.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yuanyuan Shu
- The National and Local Joint Engineering Laboratory of Animal Peptide Drug Development, College of Life Sciences, Hunan Normal University, Changsha, 410081, China
- Institute of Interdisciplinary Studies, Hunan Normal University, Changsha, 410081, China
- Peptide and Small Molecule Drug R&D Plateform, Furong Laboratory, Hunan Normal University, Changsha, 410081, Hunan, China
| | - Jianda Yue
- The National and Local Joint Engineering Laboratory of Animal Peptide Drug Development, College of Life Sciences, Hunan Normal University, Changsha, 410081, China
- Institute of Interdisciplinary Studies, Hunan Normal University, Changsha, 410081, China
- Peptide and Small Molecule Drug R&D Plateform, Furong Laboratory, Hunan Normal University, Changsha, 410081, Hunan, China
| | - Yaqi Li
- The National and Local Joint Engineering Laboratory of Animal Peptide Drug Development, College of Life Sciences, Hunan Normal University, Changsha, 410081, China
- Institute of Interdisciplinary Studies, Hunan Normal University, Changsha, 410081, China
- Peptide and Small Molecule Drug R&D Plateform, Furong Laboratory, Hunan Normal University, Changsha, 410081, Hunan, China
| | - Yekui Yin
- The National and Local Joint Engineering Laboratory of Animal Peptide Drug Development, College of Life Sciences, Hunan Normal University, Changsha, 410081, China
- Institute of Interdisciplinary Studies, Hunan Normal University, Changsha, 410081, China
- Peptide and Small Molecule Drug R&D Plateform, Furong Laboratory, Hunan Normal University, Changsha, 410081, Hunan, China
| | - Jiaxu Wang
- The National and Local Joint Engineering Laboratory of Animal Peptide Drug Development, College of Life Sciences, Hunan Normal University, Changsha, 410081, China
- Institute of Interdisciplinary Studies, Hunan Normal University, Changsha, 410081, China
- Peptide and Small Molecule Drug R&D Plateform, Furong Laboratory, Hunan Normal University, Changsha, 410081, Hunan, China
| | - Tingting Li
- The National and Local Joint Engineering Laboratory of Animal Peptide Drug Development, College of Life Sciences, Hunan Normal University, Changsha, 410081, China
- Institute of Interdisciplinary Studies, Hunan Normal University, Changsha, 410081, China
- Peptide and Small Molecule Drug R&D Plateform, Furong Laboratory, Hunan Normal University, Changsha, 410081, Hunan, China
| | - Xiao He
- Shanghai Engineering Research Center of Molecular Therapeutics and New Drug Development, Shanghai Frontiers Science Center of Molecule Intelligent Syntheses, School of Chemistry and Molecular Engineering, East China Normal University, Shanghai, 200062, China
- New York University, East China Normal University Center for Computational Chemistry, New York University Shanghai, Shanghai, 200062, China
| | - Songping Liang
- The National and Local Joint Engineering Laboratory of Animal Peptide Drug Development, College of Life Sciences, Hunan Normal University, Changsha, 410081, China
- Institute of Interdisciplinary Studies, Hunan Normal University, Changsha, 410081, China
- Peptide and Small Molecule Drug R&D Plateform, Furong Laboratory, Hunan Normal University, Changsha, 410081, Hunan, China
| | - Gaihua Zhang
- The National and Local Joint Engineering Laboratory of Animal Peptide Drug Development, College of Life Sciences, Hunan Normal University, Changsha, 410081, China.
- Institute of Interdisciplinary Studies, Hunan Normal University, Changsha, 410081, China.
- Peptide and Small Molecule Drug R&D Plateform, Furong Laboratory, Hunan Normal University, Changsha, 410081, Hunan, China.
| | - Zhonghua Liu
- The National and Local Joint Engineering Laboratory of Animal Peptide Drug Development, College of Life Sciences, Hunan Normal University, Changsha, 410081, China.
- Institute of Interdisciplinary Studies, Hunan Normal University, Changsha, 410081, China.
- Peptide and Small Molecule Drug R&D Plateform, Furong Laboratory, Hunan Normal University, Changsha, 410081, Hunan, China.
| | - Ying Wang
- The National and Local Joint Engineering Laboratory of Animal Peptide Drug Development, College of Life Sciences, Hunan Normal University, Changsha, 410081, China.
- Institute of Interdisciplinary Studies, Hunan Normal University, Changsha, 410081, China.
- Peptide and Small Molecule Drug R&D Plateform, Furong Laboratory, Hunan Normal University, Changsha, 410081, Hunan, China.
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Admane N, Kothandan R, Biswas S. Amyloid transformations of phenol soluble modulin α1 in Staphylococcus aureus and their modulation deploying a prenylated chalcone. Sci Rep 2024; 14:18587. [PMID: 39127763 PMCID: PMC11316821 DOI: 10.1038/s41598-024-69344-0] [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: 05/19/2024] [Accepted: 08/03/2024] [Indexed: 08/12/2024] Open
Abstract
Phenol soluble modulins (PSMs) are small amphipathic peptides involved in a series of biological functions governing staphylococcal pathogenesis, primarily by facilitating the formation of an extracellular fibril structure with amyloid-like properties. This fibrillar architecture stabilizes the staphylococcal biofilm making it resilient to antibiotic treatment. Our study aims to abrogate the amyloid fibrillation of PSM α1 with novel insights on the amyloid modulatory potential of a prenylated chalcone, Isobavachalcone (IBC). A combination of biophysical and computational assays to address the amyloid modulatory effect of IBC has been undertaken to arrive at a model for the inhibition of PSM α1 fibrillation. ThT kinetics studies indicated that IBC must be stably interacting with the amyloidogenic core of PSM α1 monomers or it may be inhibiting the pre-fibrillar aggregates populated at the early stages of amyloid transformation kinetics. This heteromolecular association further inhibits the amyloid transformation corroborated by a ∼ 94% and ∼ 91% reduction in the ThT maxima, even at sub-stoichiometric concentrations. Transmission electron microscopy (TEM) of end-stage aggregates (∼ 55 h) depict mature, inter-twined, laterally stacked amyloid fibrils in untreated PSM α1 samples while this fibrillar load is remarkably reduced in the presence of IBC. The inhibitory effect of IBC on the β-sheet transitions of PSM α1 were also validated using far-UV CD spectra. Molecular dynamics simulation studies with PSM aggregates (PSM-A) have also suggested that IBC disrupts the hydrogen bonding interactions and corroborates the inhibition of alpha to beta transitions of PSM-A. Collectively, our data proposes a novel structural motif for the rational discovery of non-toxic therapeutic agents targeting the functional amyloids which have slowly emerged as potent factors, consolidating the antibiotic resistant staphylococcal biofilm assembly.
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Affiliation(s)
- Nikita Admane
- ViStA Laboratory, Department of Biological Sciences, BITS, Pilani - KK Birla Goa Campus, Goa, 403726, India
| | - Ram Kothandan
- Bioinformatics Laboratory, Department of Biotechnology, Kumaraguru College of Technology, Coimbatore, India
| | - Sumit Biswas
- ViStA Laboratory, Department of Biological Sciences, BITS, Pilani - KK Birla Goa Campus, Goa, 403726, India.
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39
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Helmi N, Hamadi A, Al-Amer OM, Madkhali HA, Oyouni AAA, Alqosaibi AI, Almulhim J, Alghamdi RM, Hakeem IJ, Rafeeq MM. Unveiling the potency of FDA-approved oxidopamine HBr for cervical cancer regulation and replication proteins. Med Oncol 2024; 41:223. [PMID: 39120789 DOI: 10.1007/s12032-024-02462-x] [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: 06/29/2024] [Accepted: 07/26/2024] [Indexed: 08/10/2024]
Abstract
Cervical Cancer remains a women's health concern worldwide and ranks among the most prevalent cancers, particularly in developing countries. Many women are diagnosed with cervical cancer, with a substantial number succumbing to the disease even after the availability of vaccines and drugs. The tumour microenvironment often exhibits immune evasion, including suppression of T-cell activity and altered cytokine, impacting the efficacy of therapeutic interventions and highlighting the need for treatments to modulate the immune response. Despite efforts to promote HPV vaccination and regular screenings, it causes many deaths, underscoring the urgent need for continued research, healthcare access, and rapid drug development or repurposing. In this study, we identified various proteins involved in cervical cancer cell cycle regulation and DNA replication proteins, performed the multitargeted docking with an FDA-approved library, and identified Oxidopamine HBr as a multitargeted drug. Studies extended with pharmacokinetics and compared with the standard values followed by DFT, which supported the compound as a multitargeted inhibitor. Further, the docked complexes were taken for the interaction fingerprints, and it was identified that there are many 9 polar, 5 hydrophobic, 2 aromatic, and 2 basic residues. We extended our studies for 100ns MD Simulation in water, and the computations explored the deviation and fluctuations under 2Å and many intermolecular interactions; the same trajectory files were used for the MM\GBSA studies. All the studies have supported the Oxidopamine HBr as a cervical cancer multitargeted inhibitor-however, experimental studies are needed before human use.
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Affiliation(s)
- Nawal Helmi
- Department of Biochemistry, College of Science, University of Jeddah, Jeddah, Saudi Arabia
| | - Abdullah Hamadi
- Department of Medical Laboratory Technology, Faculty of Applied Medical Sciences, University of Tabuk, Tabuk, Saudi Arabia
| | - Osama M Al-Amer
- Department of Medical Laboratory Technology, Faculty of Applied Medical Sciences, University of Tabuk, Tabuk, Saudi Arabia
| | - Hassan A Madkhali
- Department of Pharmacology and Toxicology, College of Pharmacy, Prince Sattam Bin Abdulaziz University, Al-Kharj, Saudi Arabia
| | | | - Amany I Alqosaibi
- Department of Biology, College of Science, Imam Abdulrahman Bin Faisal University, Dammam, Saudi Arabia
| | - Jawaher Almulhim
- Department of Biological Sciences, King Faisal University, 31982, Alahsa, Saudi Arabia
| | - Rashed Mohammed Alghamdi
- Department of Laboratory Medicine, Faculty of Applied College, Al-Baha University, Al-Baha, Saudi Arabia
| | - Israa J Hakeem
- Department of Biological Sciences, College of Science, University of Jeddah, Jeddah, Saudi Arabia
| | - Misbahuddin M Rafeeq
- Department of Pharmacology, Faculty of Medicine, King Abdulaziz University, Rabigh, Jeddah, Saudi Arabia.
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40
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Moyano-Gómez P, Lehtonen JV, Pentikäinen OT, Postila PA. Building shape-focused pharmacophore models for effective docking screening. J Cheminform 2024; 16:97. [PMID: 39123240 PMCID: PMC11312248 DOI: 10.1186/s13321-024-00857-6] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/05/2023] [Accepted: 05/12/2024] [Indexed: 08/12/2024] Open
Abstract
The performance of molecular docking can be improved by comparing the shape similarity of the flexibly sampled poses against the target proteins' inverted binding cavities. The effectiveness of these pseudo-ligands or negative image-based models in docking rescoring is boosted further by performing enrichment-driven optimization. Here, we introduce a novel shape-focused pharmacophore modeling algorithm O-LAP that generates a new class of cavity-filling models by clumping together overlapping atomic content via pairwise distance graph clustering. Top-ranked poses of flexibly docked active ligands were used as the modeling input and multiple alternative clustering settings were benchmark-tested thoroughly with five demanding drug targets using random training/test divisions. In docking rescoring, the O-LAP modeling typically improved massively on the default docking enrichment; furthermore, the results indicate that the clustered models work well in rigid docking. The C+ +/Qt5-based algorithm O-LAP is released under the GNU General Public License v3.0 via GitHub ( https://github.com/jvlehtonen/overlap-toolkit ). SCIENTIFIC CONTRIBUTION: This study introduces O-LAP, a C++/Qt5-based graph clustering software for generating new type of shape-focused pharmacophore models. In the O-LAP modeling, the target protein cavity is filled with flexibly docked active ligands, the overlapping ligand atoms are clustered, and the shape/electrostatic potential of the resulting model is compared against the flexibly sampled molecular docking poses. The O-LAP modeling is shown to ensure high enrichment in both docking rescoring and rigid docking based on comprehensive benchmark-testing.
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Affiliation(s)
- Paola Moyano-Gómez
- MedChem.fi, Institute of Biomedicine, Integrative Physiology and Pharmacology, University of Turku, 20014, Turku, Finland
- InFLAMES Research Flagship, University of Turku, 20014, Turku, Finland
| | - Jukka V Lehtonen
- Structural Bioinformatics Laboratory, Biochemistry, Faculty of Science and Engineering, Åbo Akademi University, 20500, Turku, Finland
- InFLAMES Research Flagship, Åbo Akademi University, 20500, Turku, Finland
| | - Olli T Pentikäinen
- MedChem.fi, Institute of Biomedicine, Integrative Physiology and Pharmacology, University of Turku, 20014, Turku, Finland
- InFLAMES Research Flagship, University of Turku, 20014, Turku, Finland
- Aurlide Ltd, Lemminkäisenkatu 14A, 20520, Turku, Finland
| | - Pekka A Postila
- MedChem.fi, Institute of Biomedicine, Integrative Physiology and Pharmacology, University of Turku, 20014, Turku, Finland.
- InFLAMES Research Flagship, University of Turku, 20014, Turku, Finland.
- Aurlide Ltd, Lemminkäisenkatu 14A, 20520, Turku, Finland.
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41
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Silverman I, Gerber M, Shaykevich A, Stein Y, Siegman A, Goel S, Maitra R. Structural modifications and kinetic effects of KRAS interactions with HRAS and NRAS: an in silico comparative analysis of KRAS mutants. Front Mol Biosci 2024; 11:1436976. [PMID: 39184150 PMCID: PMC11342451 DOI: 10.3389/fmolb.2024.1436976] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/22/2024] [Accepted: 06/25/2024] [Indexed: 08/27/2024] Open
Abstract
The RAS genes which code for KRAS, HRAS, and NRAS are three of the most frequently mutated oncogenes responsible for cancer deaths. Tumorigenesis is one of the most significant outcomes of deregulation of RAS GTPases. Although the structures have been extensively studied, there is still more to be discovered about the actual binding conformations of the three isoforms, especially when mutated, to design an inhibitory drug. Recent studies have identified important interactions between the three isoforms that affect the oncogenic strength of the others when they are mutated. In this study, we utilize molecular dynamics simulations to examine the modifications of the structural property, mechanism, and kinetic energy of KRAS when interacting individually and with HRAS and NRAS. Notably, we found that WT-KRAS' orientation when bound to WT-HRAS vs. WT-NRAS is rotated 180°, with mutants demonstrating a similar binding pattern. The binding sites of the isoforms with KRAS share similarities with those involved in the GDP/GTP active site and site of KRAS dimerization. Thus, the isoform interaction can serve as an inhibitory method of KRAS actions. This study advances the understanding of inhibiting RAS-driven cancers through a novel isoform interaction approach only recently discovered, which has been proven to be an effective alternate therapeutic approach. We developed a blueprint of the interaction which would be beneficial in the development of KRAS mutant-specific and pan-KRAS mutant inhibitory drugs that mimic the isoform interactions. Our results support the direct interaction inhibition mechanism of mutant KRAS when bound to WT-HRAS and WT-NRAS by the isoforms' hypervariable region binding to the G-domain of KRAS. Furthermore, our results support the approach of reducing the effects of oncogenic KRAS by altering the concentration of the isoforms or a drug alternative based on the overall structural and kinetic stability, as well as the binding strength of the mutant-isoform complexes.
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Affiliation(s)
- Isaac Silverman
- Department of Biology, Yeshiva University, New York, NY, United States
| | - Michael Gerber
- Department of Biology, Yeshiva University, New York, NY, United States
| | - Aaron Shaykevich
- Department of Biology, Yeshiva University, New York, NY, United States
| | - Yitzchak Stein
- Department of Biology, Yeshiva University, New York, NY, United States
| | - Alexander Siegman
- Department of Biology, Yeshiva University, New York, NY, United States
| | - Sanjay Goel
- Department of Oncology, Rutgers Cancer Institute of New Jersey, New Brunswick, NJ, United States
| | - Radhashree Maitra
- Department of Biology, Yeshiva University, New York, NY, United States
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42
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Huang X, Chorianopoulou A, Kalkounou P, Georgiou M, Pousias A, Davies A, Pearce A, Harris M, Lambrinidis G, Marakos P, Pouli N, Kolocouris A, Lougiakis N, Ladds G. Hit-to-Lead Optimization of Heterocyclic Carbonyloxycarboximidamides as Selective Antagonists at Human Adenosine A3 Receptor. J Med Chem 2024; 67:13117-13146. [PMID: 39073853 PMCID: PMC11320584 DOI: 10.1021/acs.jmedchem.4c01092] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/08/2024] [Revised: 06/18/2024] [Accepted: 07/01/2024] [Indexed: 07/30/2024]
Abstract
Antagonism of the human adenosine A3 receptor (hA3R) has potential therapeutic application. Alchemical relative binding free energy calculations of K18 and K32 suggested that the combination of a 3-(2,6-dichlorophenyl)-isoxazolyl group with 2-pyridinyl at the ends of a carbonyloxycarboximidamide group should improve hA3R affinity. Of the 25 new analogues synthesized, 37 and 74 showed improved hA3R affinity compared to K18 (and K32). This was further improved through the addition of a bromine group to the 2-pyridinyl at the 5-position, generating compound 39. Alchemical relative binding free energy calculations, mutagenesis studies and MD simulations supported the compounds' binding pattern while suggesting that the bromine of 39 inserts deep into the hA3R orthosteric pocket, so highlighting the importance of rigidification of the carbonyloxycarboximidamide moiety. MD simulations highlighted the importance of rigidification of the carbonyloxycarboximidamide, while suggesting that the bromine of 39 inserts deep into the hA3R orthosteric pocket, which was supported through mutagenesis studies 39 also selectively antagonized endogenously expressed hA3R in nonsmall cell lung carcinoma cells, while pharmacokinetic studies indicated low toxicity enabling in vivo evaluation. We therefore suggest that 39 has potential for further development as a high-affinity hA3R antagonist.
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Affiliation(s)
- Xianglin Huang
- Department
of Pharmacology, University of Cambridge, Tennis Court Road, Cambridge CB2 1PD, U.K.
| | - Anna Chorianopoulou
- Laboratory
of Medicinal Chemistry, Section of Pharmaceutical Chemistry, Department
of Pharmacy, School of Health Sciences, National and Kapodistrian University of Athens, Panepistimiopolis-Zografou 15771, Athens, Greece
| | - Panagoula Kalkounou
- Laboratory
of Medicinal Chemistry, Section of Pharmaceutical Chemistry, Department
of Pharmacy, School of Health Sciences, National and Kapodistrian University of Athens, Panepistimiopolis-Zografou 15771, Athens, Greece
| | - Maria Georgiou
- Laboratory
of Medicinal Chemistry, Section of Pharmaceutical Chemistry, Department
of Pharmacy, School of Health Sciences, National and Kapodistrian University of Athens, Panepistimiopolis-Zografou 15771, Athens, Greece
| | - Athanasios Pousias
- Laboratory
of Medicinal Chemistry, Section of Pharmaceutical Chemistry, Department
of Pharmacy, School of Health Sciences, National and Kapodistrian University of Athens, Panepistimiopolis-Zografou 15771, Athens, Greece
| | - Amy Davies
- Department
of Pharmacology, University of Cambridge, Tennis Court Road, Cambridge CB2 1PD, U.K.
| | - Abigail Pearce
- Department
of Pharmacology, University of Cambridge, Tennis Court Road, Cambridge CB2 1PD, U.K.
| | - Matthew Harris
- Department
of Pharmacology, University of Cambridge, Tennis Court Road, Cambridge CB2 1PD, U.K.
| | - George Lambrinidis
- Laboratory
of Medicinal Chemistry, Section of Pharmaceutical Chemistry, Department
of Pharmacy, School of Health Sciences, National and Kapodistrian University of Athens, Panepistimiopolis-Zografou 15771, Athens, Greece
| | - Panagiotis Marakos
- Laboratory
of Medicinal Chemistry, Section of Pharmaceutical Chemistry, Department
of Pharmacy, School of Health Sciences, National and Kapodistrian University of Athens, Panepistimiopolis-Zografou 15771, Athens, Greece
| | - Nicole Pouli
- Laboratory
of Medicinal Chemistry, Section of Pharmaceutical Chemistry, Department
of Pharmacy, School of Health Sciences, National and Kapodistrian University of Athens, Panepistimiopolis-Zografou 15771, Athens, Greece
| | - Antonios Kolocouris
- Laboratory
of Medicinal Chemistry, Section of Pharmaceutical Chemistry, Department
of Pharmacy, School of Health Sciences, National and Kapodistrian University of Athens, Panepistimiopolis-Zografou 15771, Athens, Greece
| | - Nikolaos Lougiakis
- Laboratory
of Medicinal Chemistry, Section of Pharmaceutical Chemistry, Department
of Pharmacy, School of Health Sciences, National and Kapodistrian University of Athens, Panepistimiopolis-Zografou 15771, Athens, Greece
| | - Graham Ladds
- Department
of Pharmacology, University of Cambridge, Tennis Court Road, Cambridge CB2 1PD, U.K.
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43
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Wan Y, Guo S, Zhen W, Xu L, Chen X, Liu F, Shen Y, Liu S, Hu L, Wang X, Ye F, Wang Q, Wen H, Yang F. Structural basis of adenine nucleotides regulation and neurodegenerative pathology in ClC-3 exchanger. Nat Commun 2024; 15:6654. [PMID: 39107281 PMCID: PMC11303396 DOI: 10.1038/s41467-024-50975-w] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/16/2023] [Accepted: 07/25/2024] [Indexed: 08/10/2024] Open
Abstract
The ClC-3 chloride/proton exchanger is both physiologically and pathologically critical, as it is potentiated by ATP to detect metabolic energy level and point mutations in ClC-3 lead to severe neurodegenerative diseases in human. However, why this exchanger is differentially modulated by ATP, ADP or AMP and how mutations caused gain-of-function remains largely unknow. Here we determine the high-resolution structures of dimeric wildtype ClC-3 in the apo state and in complex with ATP, ADP and AMP, and the disease-causing I607T mutant in the apo and ATP-bounded state by cryo-electron microscopy. In combination with patch-clamp recordings and molecular dynamic simulations, we reveal how the adenine nucleotides binds to ClC-3 and changes in ion occupancy between apo and ATP-bounded state. We further observe I607T mutation induced conformational changes and augments in current. Therefore, our study not only lays the structural basis of adenine nucleotides regulation in ClC-3, but also clearly indicates the target region for drug discovery against ClC-3 mediated neurodegenerative diseases.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yangzhuoqun Wan
- Department of Biophysics and Disease Center of the First Affiliated Hospital, Zhejiang University School of Medicine, Hangzhou, Zhejiang, China
- Liangzhu Laboratory, Zhejiang University Medical Center, Hangzhou, Zhejiang, China
| | - Shuangshuang Guo
- Department of Biophysics and Disease Center of the First Affiliated Hospital, Zhejiang University School of Medicine, Hangzhou, Zhejiang, China
- Liangzhu Laboratory, Zhejiang University Medical Center, Hangzhou, Zhejiang, China
| | - Wenxuan Zhen
- Department of Biophysics and Disease Center of the First Affiliated Hospital, Zhejiang University School of Medicine, Hangzhou, Zhejiang, China
- Liangzhu Laboratory, Zhejiang University Medical Center, Hangzhou, Zhejiang, China
| | - Lizhen Xu
- Department of Biophysics and Disease Center of the First Affiliated Hospital, Zhejiang University School of Medicine, Hangzhou, Zhejiang, China
- Liangzhu Laboratory, Zhejiang University Medical Center, Hangzhou, Zhejiang, China
| | - Xiaoying Chen
- Department of Biophysics and Disease Center of the First Affiliated Hospital, Zhejiang University School of Medicine, Hangzhou, Zhejiang, China
- Liangzhu Laboratory, Zhejiang University Medical Center, Hangzhou, Zhejiang, China
| | - Fangyue Liu
- Department of Neurobiology and Department of General Intensive Care Unit of the Second Affiliated Hospital, Zhejiang University School of Medicine, Hangzhou, China
| | - Yi Shen
- Department of Neurobiology and Department of General Intensive Care Unit of the Second Affiliated Hospital, Zhejiang University School of Medicine, Hangzhou, China
| | - Shuangshuang Liu
- Core Facilities, Zhejiang University School of Medicine, Hangzhou, China
| | - Lidan Hu
- The Children's Hospital, Zhejiang University School of Medicine, National Clinical Research Center for Child Health, Hangzhou, China
| | | | | | | | - Han Wen
- DP Technology, Beijing, China.
- Institute for Advanced Algorithms Research, Shanghai, China.
- State Key Laboratory of Medical Proteomics, Shanghai, China.
- AI for Science Institute, Beijing, China.
- National Key Laboratory of Lead Druggability Research, Beijing, China.
| | - Fan Yang
- Department of Biophysics and Disease Center of the First Affiliated Hospital, Zhejiang University School of Medicine, Hangzhou, Zhejiang, China.
- Liangzhu Laboratory, Zhejiang University Medical Center, Hangzhou, Zhejiang, China.
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44
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Waqas M, Ullah S, Ullah A, Halim SA, Rehman NU, Khalid A, Ali A, Khan A, Gibbons S, Csuk R, Al-Harrasi A. Disrupting protease and deubiquitinase activities of SARS-CoV-2 papain-like protease by natural and synthetic products discovered through multiple computational and biochemical approaches. Int J Biol Macromol 2024; 277:134476. [PMID: 39111477 DOI: 10.1016/j.ijbiomac.2024.134476] [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: 12/21/2023] [Revised: 07/31/2024] [Accepted: 08/02/2024] [Indexed: 08/12/2024]
Abstract
The single-stranded RNA genome of SARS-CoV-2 encodes several structural and non-structural proteins, among which the papain-like protease (PLpro) is crucial for viral replication and immune evasion and has emerged as a promising therapeutic target. The current study aims to discover new inhibitors of PLpro that can simultaneously disrupt its protease and deubiquitinase activities. Using multiple computational approaches, six compounds (CP1-CP6) were selected from our in-house compounds database, with higher docking scores (-7.97 kcal/mol to -8.14 kcal/mol) and fitted well in the active pocket of PLpro. Furthermore, utilizing microscale molecular dynamics simulations (MD), the dynamic behavior of selected compounds was studied. Those molecules strongly binds at the PLpro active site and forms stable complexes. The dynamic motions suggest that the binding of CP1-CP6 brought the protein to a closed conformational state, thereby altering its normal function. In an in vitro evaluation, CP2 showed the most significant inhibitory potential for PLpro (protease activity = 2.71 ± 0.33 μM and deubiquitinase activity = 3.11 ± 0.75 μM), followed by CP1, CP5, CP4 and CP6. Additionally, CP1-CP6 showed no cytotoxicity at a concentration of 30 μM in the human BJ cell line.
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Affiliation(s)
- Muhammad Waqas
- Department of Biotechnology and Genetic Engineering, Hazara University, Mansehra 2100, Pakistan
| | - Saeed Ullah
- Natural and Medical Sciences Research Center, University of Nizwa, Nizwa 616, Sultanate of Oman
| | - Atta Ullah
- Natural and Medical Sciences Research Center, University of Nizwa, Nizwa 616, Sultanate of Oman
| | - Sobia Ahsan Halim
- Natural and Medical Sciences Research Center, University of Nizwa, Nizwa 616, Sultanate of Oman
| | - Najeeb Ur Rehman
- Natural and Medical Sciences Research Center, University of Nizwa, Nizwa 616, Sultanate of Oman
| | - Asaad Khalid
- Health Research Center, Jazan University, P.O. Box: 114, Jazan 45142, Saudi Arabia
| | - Amjad Ali
- Department of Biotechnology and Genetic Engineering, Hazara University, Mansehra 2100, Pakistan.
| | - Ajmal Khan
- Natural and Medical Sciences Research Center, University of Nizwa, Nizwa 616, Sultanate of Oman.
| | - Simon Gibbons
- Natural and Medical Sciences Research Center, University of Nizwa, Nizwa 616, Sultanate of Oman
| | - Rene Csuk
- Martin-Luther-University Halle-Wittenberg, Organic Chemistry, Kurt-Mothes-Str. 2, D-06120 Halle (Saale), Germany
| | - Ahmed Al-Harrasi
- Natural and Medical Sciences Research Center, University of Nizwa, Nizwa 616, Sultanate of Oman.
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45
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Shaimardanov AR, Shulga DA, Palyulin VA. Do electrostatic interactions make a difference in physics-based AutoDock4 scoring function? J Comput Chem 2024; 45:1806-1820. [PMID: 38661234 DOI: 10.1002/jcc.27373] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/28/2023] [Revised: 03/21/2024] [Accepted: 03/25/2024] [Indexed: 04/26/2024]
Abstract
Physics-based scoring function AutoDock4 is one of the most successfully applied tools in the area of structure-based drug design. However, current scoring functions are still far from being perfect. In a recent work highlighting the strengths and deficiencies of current scoring functions, we discovered that the residual error of ΔGbind predictions made by AutoDock4 is highly correlated to the presence of formally charged fragments in a ligand. In this work, we study how the use of the high-quality atomic charges, applied for contemporary force fields calculation, affects the quality of the experimental ΔGbind prediction by means of AutoDock4. We initially expected that the previously found discrepancy could be attributed to the Gasteiger charges used within AutoDock4. We show that AutoDock4 is, surprisingly, not sensitive to the charges used, and the use of QC-derived atomic charges does not lead to any statistical improvements. We also briefly discuss the role of the explicit empirical hydrogen bond term along with the electrostatic term.
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Affiliation(s)
- Arslan R Shaimardanov
- Department of Chemistry, Lomonosov Moscow State University, Moscow, Russian Federation
| | - Dmitry A Shulga
- Department of Chemistry, Lomonosov Moscow State University, Moscow, Russian Federation
| | - Vladimir A Palyulin
- Department of Chemistry, Lomonosov Moscow State University, Moscow, Russian Federation
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46
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Mitra R, Li J, Sagendorf JM, Jiang Y, Cohen AS, Chiu TP, Glasscock CJ, Rohs R. Geometric deep learning of protein-DNA binding specificity. Nat Methods 2024:10.1038/s41592-024-02372-w. [PMID: 39103447 DOI: 10.1038/s41592-024-02372-w] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/13/2023] [Accepted: 06/14/2024] [Indexed: 08/07/2024]
Abstract
Predicting protein-DNA binding specificity is a challenging yet essential task for understanding gene regulation. Protein-DNA complexes usually exhibit binding to a selected DNA target site, whereas a protein binds, with varying degrees of binding specificity, to a wide range of DNA sequences. This information is not directly accessible in a single structure. Here, to access this information, we present Deep Predictor of Binding Specificity (DeepPBS), a geometric deep-learning model designed to predict binding specificity from protein-DNA structure. DeepPBS can be applied to experimental or predicted structures. Interpretable protein heavy atom importance scores for interface residues can be extracted. When aggregated at the protein residue level, these scores are validated through mutagenesis experiments. Applied to designed proteins targeting specific DNA sequences, DeepPBS was demonstrated to predict experimentally measured binding specificity. DeepPBS offers a foundation for machine-aided studies that advance our understanding of molecular interactions and guide experimental designs and synthetic biology.
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Affiliation(s)
- Raktim Mitra
- Department of Quantitative and Computational Biology, University of Southern California, Los Angeles, CA, USA
| | - Jinsen Li
- Department of Quantitative and Computational Biology, University of Southern California, Los Angeles, CA, USA
| | - Jared M Sagendorf
- Department of Quantitative and Computational Biology, University of Southern California, Los Angeles, CA, USA
- Department of Bioengineering and Therapeutic Sciences, University of California San Francisco, San Francisco, CA, USA
| | - Yibei Jiang
- Department of Quantitative and Computational Biology, University of Southern California, Los Angeles, CA, USA
| | - Ari S Cohen
- Department of Quantitative and Computational Biology, University of Southern California, Los Angeles, CA, USA
| | - Tsu-Pei Chiu
- Department of Quantitative and Computational Biology, University of Southern California, Los Angeles, CA, USA
| | - Cameron J Glasscock
- Department of Biochemistry, University of Washington, Seattle, WA, USA
- Institute for Protein Design, University of Washington, Seattle, WA, USA
| | - Remo Rohs
- Department of Quantitative and Computational Biology, University of Southern California, Los Angeles, CA, USA.
- Department of Chemistry, University of Southern California, Los Angeles, CA, USA.
- Department of Physics and Astronomy, University of Southern California, Los Angeles, CA, USA.
- Thomas Lord Department of Computer Science, University of Southern California, Los Angeles, CA, USA.
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47
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Tatsing Foka FE, Tumelo Mufhandu H. Predictive Assessment of the Antiviral Properties of Imperata cylindrica against SARS-CoV-2. Adv Virol 2024; 2024:8598708. [PMID: 39135917 PMCID: PMC11317227 DOI: 10.1155/2024/8598708] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/04/2023] [Revised: 06/26/2024] [Accepted: 07/16/2024] [Indexed: 08/15/2024] Open
Abstract
The omicron variant and its sublineages are highly contagious, and they still constitute a global source of concern despite vaccinations. Hospitalizations and mortality rates resulting from infections by these variants of concern are still common. The existing therapeutic alternatives have presented various setbacks such as low potency, poor pharmacokinetic profiles, and drug resistance. The need for alternative therapeutic options cannot be overemphasized. Plants and their phytochemicals present interesting characteristics that make them suitable candidates for the development of antiviral therapeutic agents. This study aimed to investigate the antiviral potential of Imperata cylindrica (I. cylindrica). Specifically, the objective of this study was to identify I. cylindrica phytochemicals that display inhibitory effects against SARS-CoV-2 main protease (Mpro), a highly conserved protein among coronaviruses. Molecular docking and in silico pharmacokinetic assays were used to assess 72 phytocompounds that are found in I. cylindrica as ligands and Mpro (6LU7) as the target. Only eight phytochemicals (bifendate, cylindrene, tabanone, siderin, 5-hydroxy-2-[2-(2-hydroxyphenyl)ethyl]-4H-1-benzopyran-4-one, maritimin, 5-methoxyflavone, and flavone) displayed high binding affinities with Mpro with docking scores ranging from -5.6 kcal/mol to -9.1 kcal/mol. The in silico pharmacokinetic and toxicological assays revealed that tabanone was the best and safest phytochemical for the development of an inhibitory agent against coronavirus main protease. Thus, the study served as a baseline for further in vitro and in vivo assessment of this phytochemical against Mpro of SARS-CoV-2 variants of concern to validate these in silico findings.
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Affiliation(s)
- Frank Eric Tatsing Foka
- Department of Microbiology Virology Laboratory School of Biological Sciences Faculty of Natural and Agricultural Sciences North West University, Mafikeng, Private Bag X2046, Mmabatho, South Africa
| | - Hazel Tumelo Mufhandu
- Department of Microbiology Virology Laboratory School of Biological Sciences Faculty of Natural and Agricultural Sciences North West University, Mafikeng, Private Bag X2046, Mmabatho, South Africa
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Hashim HO, Al-Shuhaib JMB, Mohammed MK, Al-Shuhaib MBS. Targeting Monkeypox Virus Methyltransferase: Virtual Screening of Natural Compounds from Middle-Eastern Medicinal Plants. Mol Biotechnol 2024:10.1007/s12033-024-01246-y. [PMID: 39097539 DOI: 10.1007/s12033-024-01246-y] [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: 01/18/2024] [Accepted: 07/01/2024] [Indexed: 08/05/2024]
Abstract
Monkeypox is an infectious disease resulting from the monkeypox virus, and its fatality rate varies depending on the virus clade and the location of the outbreak. In monkeypox virus, methyltransferase (MTase) plays a crucial role in modifying the cap structure of viral mRNA. This alteration assists the virus in evading the host's immune system, enhances viral protein synthesis, and ultimately enables successful infection and replication within host cells. Given the significance of MTase in viral infection and spread within the host, our study aimed to identify a natural inhibitor for this enzyme using docking and molecular dynamic (MD) simulations. We collected a total of 12,971 natural compounds from 200 medicinal plants in the Middle East. After eliminating duplicate compounds, we had 5,749 unique ligand conformers, which we then subjected to high-throughput virtual screening against MTase. The most promising hits were further evaluated using the extra-precision (XP) tool. The affinity of these hits was also assessed by Prime-Molecular Mechanics/Generalized Born Surface Area (MMGBSA) tool. The analysis revealed that two standard controls (sinefungin and TO1119) and two Middle-Eastern compounds (folic acid and 1,2,4,6-tetragalloylglucose) exhibited the best XP docking scores. According to Prime MMGBSA calculations, the Middle-Eastern compounds showed higher affinities, with values of - 60.61 kcal/mol for 1,2,4,6-tetragalloylglucose and - 51.87 kcal/mol for folic acid, surpassing the controls (TO1119 at - 35.71 kcal/mol and sinefungin at - 31.51 kcal/mol). In the majority of Molecular dynamic (MD) simulations, folic acid exhibited demonstrated greater stability than sinefungin. Further investigation revealed that folic acid occupied a critical position in the active site of MTase, which reduced its interaction with the mRNA substrate. Based on these findings, it can be concluded that folic acid is a highly promising natural compound for potential use in the cost-effective treatment of monkeypox virus. The identification of folic acid as a potential antiviral agent highlights the importance of nature in providing new therapeutic uses that have significant implications for global health, particularly in regions where monkeypox viral outbreaks are prevalent. However, it is essential to note that further wet-lab validations are necessary to confirm its efficacy for treatment in a medical context.
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Affiliation(s)
- Hayder O Hashim
- Department of Clinical Laboratory Sciences, College of Pharmacy, University of Babylon, Babil, 51001, Iraq
| | | | - Mudher K Mohammed
- Department of Pharmacy, Al-Manara College of Medical Science, Amarah, Iraq
| | - Mohammed Baqur S Al-Shuhaib
- Department of Animal Production, College of Agriculture, Al-Qasim Green University, Al-Qasim, 51013, Babil, Iraq.
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Maria DN, Ibrahim MM, Kim MJ, Maria SN, White WA, Wang X, Hollingsworth TJ, Jablonski MM. Evaluation of Pregabalin bioadhesive multilayered microemulsion IOP-lowering eye drops. J Control Release 2024; 373:667-687. [PMID: 39079659 DOI: 10.1016/j.jconrel.2024.07.061] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/22/2024] [Revised: 07/24/2024] [Accepted: 07/25/2024] [Indexed: 08/04/2024]
Abstract
In spite of available treatment options, glaucoma continues to be a leading cause of irreversible blindness in the world. Current glaucoma medications have multiple limitations including: lack of sustained action; requirement for multiple dosing per day, ocular irritation and limited options for drugs with different mechanisms of action. Previously, we demonstrated that pregabalin, a drug with high affinity and selectivity for CACNA2D1, lowered IOP in a dose-dependent manner. The current study was designed to evaluate pregabalin microemulsion eye drops and to estimate its efficacy in humans using in silico methods. Molecular docking studies of pregabalin against CACNA2D1 of mouse, rabbit, and human were performed. Pregabalin microemulsion eye drops were characterized using multiple in vivo studies and its stability was evaluated over one year at different storage conditions. Molecular docking analyses and QSPR of pregabalin confirmed its suitability as a new IOP-lowering medication that functions using a new mechanism of action by binding to CACNA2D1 in all species evaluated. Because of its prolonged corneal residence time and corneal penetration enhancement, a single topical application of pregabalin ME can provide an extended IOP reduction of more than day in different animal models. Repeated daily dosing for 2 months confirms the lack of any tachyphylactic effect, which is a common drawback among marketed IOP-lowering medications. In addition, pregabalin microemulsion demonstrated good physical stability for one year, and chemical stability for 3-6 months if stored below 25 °C. Collectively, these outcomes greatly support the use of pregabalin eye drops as once daily IOP-lowering therapy for glaucoma management.
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Affiliation(s)
- Doaa N Maria
- Department of Ophthalmology, Hamilton Eye Institute, University of Tennessee Health Science Center, Memphis, TN 38163, United States; Department of Pharmaceutics, Faculty of Pharmacy, Mansoura University, Mansoura 35516, Egypt
| | - Mohamed M Ibrahim
- Department of Ophthalmology, Hamilton Eye Institute, University of Tennessee Health Science Center, Memphis, TN 38163, United States; Department of Pharmaceutics, Faculty of Pharmacy, Mansoura University, Mansoura 35516, Egypt
| | - Minjae J Kim
- Department of Ophthalmology, Hamilton Eye Institute, University of Tennessee Health Science Center, Memphis, TN 38163, United States
| | - Sara N Maria
- Department of Ophthalmology, Hamilton Eye Institute, University of Tennessee Health Science Center, Memphis, TN 38163, United States; Department of Pharmaceutics, Faculty of Pharmacy, Mansoura University, Mansoura 35516, Egypt; Department of Pharmaceutical Sciences, University of Tennessee Health Science Center, Memphis, TN 38163, United States
| | - William A White
- Department of Ophthalmology, Hamilton Eye Institute, University of Tennessee Health Science Center, Memphis, TN 38163, United States
| | - XiangDi Wang
- Department of Ophthalmology, Hamilton Eye Institute, University of Tennessee Health Science Center, Memphis, TN 38163, United States
| | - T J Hollingsworth
- Department of Ophthalmology, Hamilton Eye Institute, University of Tennessee Health Science Center, Memphis, TN 38163, United States
| | - Monica M Jablonski
- Department of Ophthalmology, Hamilton Eye Institute, University of Tennessee Health Science Center, Memphis, TN 38163, United States; Department of Pharmaceutical Sciences, University of Tennessee Health Science Center, Memphis, TN 38163, United States.
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Ni Z, Song F, Zhou H, Xu Y, Wang Z, Chen D. Mechanistic Insights into How the Single Point Mutation Change the Autoantibody Repertoire. Protein J 2024; 43:683-696. [PMID: 39068631 DOI: 10.1007/s10930-024-10225-w] [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] [Accepted: 07/07/2024] [Indexed: 07/30/2024]
Abstract
A recent study showed that just one point mutation F33 to Y in the complementarity-determining region 1 of heavy chain (H-CDR1) could lead to the auto-antibody losing its DNA binding ability. However, the potential molecular mechanisms have not been well elucidated. In this study, we investigated how the antibody lost the DNA binding ability caused by mutation F33 to Y in the H-CDR1. We found that the electrostatic force was not the primary driving force for the interaction between anti-DNA antibodies and the antigen single strand DNA (ssDNA), and that the H-CDR2 largely contributed to the binding of antigen ssDNA, even larger than H-CDR1. The H-F33Y mutation could increase the hydrogen-bond interaction but impair the pi-pi stacking interaction between the antibody and ssDNA. We further found that F33H, W98H and Y95L in the wiletype antibody could form the stable pi-pi stacking interaction with the nucleotide bases of ssDNA. However, the Y33 in mutant could not form the parallel sandwich pi-pi stacking interaction with the ssDNA. To further confirm the importance of pi-pi stacking, the wildtype antibody and the mutants (F33YH, F33AH, W98AH and Y95AL) were experimentally expressed in CHO cells and purified, and the results from ELISA clearly showed that all the mutants lost the ssDNA binding ability. Taken together, our findings may not only deepen the understanding of the underlying interaction mechanism between autoantibody and antigen, but also broad implications in the field of antibody engineer.
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Affiliation(s)
- Zhong Ni
- School of Life Sciences, Jiangsu University, Zhenjiang, 212013, China
| | - Fangyuan Song
- School of Life Sciences, Jiangsu University, Zhenjiang, 212013, China
| | - Huimin Zhou
- School of Life Sciences, Jiangsu University, Zhenjiang, 212013, China
| | - Ying Xu
- School of Life Sciences, Jiangsu University, Zhenjiang, 212013, China
| | - Zhiguo Wang
- Institute of Ageing Research, School of Medicine, Hangzhou Normal University, Hangzhou, Zhejiang, 311121, China
| | - Dongfeng Chen
- School of Life Sciences, Jiangsu University, Zhenjiang, 212013, China.
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