1
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Morais KLP, Ciccone L, Stura E, Alvarez-Flores MP, Mourier G, Driessche MV, Sciani JM, Iqbal A, Kalil SP, Pereira GJ, Marques-Porto R, Cunegundes P, Juliano L, Servent D, Chudzinski-Tavassi AM. Structural and functional properties of the Kunitz-type and C-terminal domains of Amblyomin-X supporting its antitumor activity. Front Mol Biosci 2023; 10:1072751. [PMID: 36845546 PMCID: PMC9948614 DOI: 10.3389/fmolb.2023.1072751] [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: 10/17/2022] [Accepted: 01/12/2023] [Indexed: 02/11/2023] Open
Abstract
Amblyomin-X is a Kunitz-type FXa inhibitor identified through the transcriptome analysis of the salivary gland from Amblyomma sculptum tick. This protein consists of two domains of equivalent size, triggers apoptosis in different tumor cell lines, and promotes regression of tumor growth, and reduction of metastasis. To study the structural properties and functional roles of the N-terminal (N-ter) and C-terminal (C-ter) domains of Amblyomin-X, we synthesized them by solid-phase peptide synthesis, solved the X-Ray crystallographic structure of the N-ter domain, confirming its Kunitz-type signature, and studied their biological properties. We show here that the C-ter domain is responsible for the uptake of Amblyomin-X by tumor cells and highlight the ability of this domain to deliver intracellular cargo by the strong enhancement of the intracellular detection of molecules with low cellular-uptake efficiency (p15) after their coupling with the C-ter domain. In contrast, the N-ter Kunitz domain of Amblyomin-X is not capable of crossing through the cell membrane but is associated with tumor cell cytotoxicity when it is microinjected into the cells or fused to TAT cell-penetrating peptide. Additionally, we identify the minimum length C-terminal domain named F2C able to enter in the SK-MEL-28 cells and induces dynein chains gene expression modulation, a molecular motor that plays a role in the uptake and intracellular trafficking of Amblyomin-X.
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Affiliation(s)
- K. L. P. Morais
- Center of Excellence in New Target Discovery (CENTD), Butantan Institute, São Paulo, Brazil,Laboratory of Development and Innovation, Butantan Institute, São Paulo, Brazil,Department of Biochemistry, Federal University of São Paulo, São Paulo, Brazil
| | - L. Ciccone
- Département Médicaments et Technologies pour la Santé (DMTS), Université Paris-Saclay, CEA SIMoS, Gif-sur-Yvette, France,Department of Pharmacy, University of Pisa, Pisa, Italy
| | - E. Stura
- Département Médicaments et Technologies pour la Santé (DMTS), Université Paris-Saclay, CEA SIMoS, Gif-sur-Yvette, France
| | - M. P. Alvarez-Flores
- Center of Excellence in New Target Discovery (CENTD), Butantan Institute, São Paulo, Brazil
| | - G. Mourier
- Département Médicaments et Technologies pour la Santé (DMTS), Université Paris-Saclay, CEA SIMoS, Gif-sur-Yvette, France
| | - M. Vanden Driessche
- Département Médicaments et Technologies pour la Santé (DMTS), Université Paris-Saclay, CEA SIMoS, Gif-sur-Yvette, France
| | - J. M. Sciani
- Center of Excellence in New Target Discovery (CENTD), Butantan Institute, São Paulo, Brazil
| | - A. Iqbal
- Center of Excellence in New Target Discovery (CENTD), Butantan Institute, São Paulo, Brazil,Laboratory of Development and Innovation, Butantan Institute, São Paulo, Brazil
| | - S. P. Kalil
- Center of Excellence in New Target Discovery (CENTD), Butantan Institute, São Paulo, Brazil
| | - G. J. Pereira
- Department of Pharmacology, Federal University of São Paulo, São Paulo, Brazil
| | - R. Marques-Porto
- Laboratory of Development and Innovation, Butantan Institute, São Paulo, Brazil
| | - P. Cunegundes
- Center of Excellence in New Target Discovery (CENTD), Butantan Institute, São Paulo, Brazil,Department of Biochemistry, Federal University of São Paulo, São Paulo, Brazil
| | - L. Juliano
- Department of Biophysics, Federal University of São Paulo, São Paulo, Brazil
| | - D. Servent
- Département Médicaments et Technologies pour la Santé (DMTS), Université Paris-Saclay, CEA SIMoS, Gif-sur-Yvette, France,*Correspondence: D. Servent, ; A. M. Chudzinski-Tavassi,
| | - A. M. Chudzinski-Tavassi
- Center of Excellence in New Target Discovery (CENTD), Butantan Institute, São Paulo, Brazil,Laboratory of Development and Innovation, Butantan Institute, São Paulo, Brazil,*Correspondence: D. Servent, ; A. M. Chudzinski-Tavassi,
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2
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Lobba ARM, Alvarez-Flores MP, Fessel MR, Buri MV, Oliveira DS, Gomes RN, Cunegundes PS, DeOcesano-Pereira C, Cinel VD, Chudzinski-Tavassi AM. A Kunitz-type inhibitor from tick salivary glands: A promising novel antitumor drug candidate. Front Mol Biosci 2022; 9:936107. [PMID: 36052162 PMCID: PMC9424826 DOI: 10.3389/fmolb.2022.936107] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/04/2022] [Accepted: 07/05/2022] [Indexed: 11/13/2022] Open
Abstract
Salivary glands are vital structures responsible for successful tick feeding. The saliva of ticks contains numerous active molecules that participate in several physiological processes. A Kunitz-type factor Xa (FXa) inhibitor, similar to the tissue factor pathway inhibitor (TFPI) precursor, was identified in the salivary gland transcriptome of Amblyomma sculptum ticks. The recombinant mature form of this Kunitz-type inhibitor, named Amblyomin-X, displayed anticoagulant, antiangiogenic, and antitumor properties. Amblyomin-X is a protein that inhibits FXa in the blood coagulation cascade and acts via non-hemostatic mechanisms, such as proteasome inhibition. Amblyomin-X selectively induces apoptosis in cancer cells and promotes tumor regression through these mechanisms. Notably, the cytotoxicity of Amblyomin-X seems to be restricted to tumor cells and does not affect non-tumorigenic cells, tissues, and organs, making this recombinant protein an attractive molecule for anticancer therapy. The cytotoxic activity of Amblyomin-X on tumor cells has led to vast exploration into this protein. Here, we summarize the function, action mechanisms, structural features, pharmacokinetics, and biodistribution of this tick Kunitz-type inhibitor recombinant protein as a promising novel antitumor drug candidate.
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Affiliation(s)
- Aline R. M. Lobba
- Centre of Excellence in New Target Discovery-CENTD, Butantan Institute, São Paulo, Brazil
- Development and Innovation Centre, Butantan Institute, Butantan Institute, São Paulo, Brazil
| | - Miryam Paola Alvarez-Flores
- Centre of Excellence in New Target Discovery-CENTD, Butantan Institute, São Paulo, Brazil
- Development and Innovation Centre, Butantan Institute, Butantan Institute, São Paulo, Brazil
| | - Melissa Regina Fessel
- Centre of Excellence in New Target Discovery-CENTD, Butantan Institute, São Paulo, Brazil
- Development and Innovation Centre, Butantan Institute, Butantan Institute, São Paulo, Brazil
| | - Marcus Vinicius Buri
- Centre of Excellence in New Target Discovery-CENTD, Butantan Institute, São Paulo, Brazil
- Development and Innovation Centre, Butantan Institute, Butantan Institute, São Paulo, Brazil
| | - Douglas S. Oliveira
- Centre of Excellence in New Target Discovery-CENTD, Butantan Institute, São Paulo, Brazil
- Development and Innovation Centre, Butantan Institute, Butantan Institute, São Paulo, Brazil
- Biochemistry Department, Federal University of São Paulo, São Paulo, Brazil
| | - Renata N. Gomes
- Centre of Excellence in New Target Discovery-CENTD, Butantan Institute, São Paulo, Brazil
- Development and Innovation Centre, Butantan Institute, Butantan Institute, São Paulo, Brazil
| | - Priscila S. Cunegundes
- Centre of Excellence in New Target Discovery-CENTD, Butantan Institute, São Paulo, Brazil
- Development and Innovation Centre, Butantan Institute, Butantan Institute, São Paulo, Brazil
- Biochemistry Department, Federal University of São Paulo, São Paulo, Brazil
| | - Carlos DeOcesano-Pereira
- Centre of Excellence in New Target Discovery-CENTD, Butantan Institute, São Paulo, Brazil
- Development and Innovation Centre, Butantan Institute, Butantan Institute, São Paulo, Brazil
| | - Victor D. Cinel
- Centre of Excellence in New Target Discovery-CENTD, Butantan Institute, São Paulo, Brazil
- Development and Innovation Centre, Butantan Institute, Butantan Institute, São Paulo, Brazil
- Biochemistry Department, Federal University of São Paulo, São Paulo, Brazil
| | - Ana M. Chudzinski-Tavassi
- Centre of Excellence in New Target Discovery-CENTD, Butantan Institute, São Paulo, Brazil
- Development and Innovation Centre, Butantan Institute, Butantan Institute, São Paulo, Brazil
- Biochemistry Department, Federal University of São Paulo, São Paulo, Brazil
- *Correspondence: Ana M. Chudzinski-Tavassi,
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3
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Schön MP. The tick and I: Parasite-host interactions between ticks and humans. J Dtsch Dermatol Ges 2022; 20:818-853. [PMID: 35674196 DOI: 10.1111/ddg.14821] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/18/2022] [Accepted: 04/25/2022] [Indexed: 11/28/2022]
Abstract
Ticks, particularly hard ticks (Ixodidae), which are among the most important vectors of dangerous infectious agents, feed on their hosts for extended periods of time. With this lifestyle, numerous adaptations have evolved in ticks and their hosts, the pharmacological importance of which is increasingly being recognized. Many bioactive substances in tick saliva are being considered as the basis of new drugs. For example, components of tick cement can be developed into tissue adhesives or wound closures. Analgesic and antipruritic salivary components inhibit histamine or bradykinin, while other tick-derived molecules bind opioid or cannabinoid receptors. Tick saliva inhibits the extrinsic, intrinsic, or common pathway of blood coagulation with implications for the treatment of thromboembolic diseases. It contains vasodilating substances and affects wound healing. The broad spectrum of immunomodulatory and immunosuppressive effects of tick saliva, such as inhibition of chemokines or cellular immune responses, allows development of drugs against inflammation in autoimmune diseases and/or infections. Finally, modern vaccines against ticks can curb the spread of serious infections. The medical importance of the complex tick-host interactions is increasingly being recognized and translated into first clinical applications. Using selected examples, an overview of the mutual adaptations of ticks and hosts is given here, focusing on their significance to medical advance.
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Affiliation(s)
- Michael P Schön
- Department of Dermatology, Venereology and Allergology, University Medical Center Göttingen, Germany
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4
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Schön MP. Die Zecke und ich: Parasiten-Wirt-Interaktionen zwischen Zecken und Menschen. J Dtsch Dermatol Ges 2022; 20:818-855. [PMID: 35711058 DOI: 10.1111/ddg.14821_g] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/18/2022] [Revised: 04/22/2022] [Accepted: 04/25/2022] [Indexed: 12/01/2022]
Affiliation(s)
- Michael P Schön
- Klinik für Dermatologie, Venerologie und Allergologie, Universitätsmedizin Göttingen
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5
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Lara PG, Esteves E, Sales-Campos H, Assis JB, Henrique MO, Barros MS, Neto LS, Silva PI, Martins JO, Cardoso CRB, Ribeiro JMC, Sá-Nunes A. AeMOPE-1, a Novel Salivary Peptide From Aedes aegypti, Selectively Modulates Activation of Murine Macrophages and Ameliorates Experimental Colitis. Front Immunol 2021; 12:681671. [PMID: 34349757 PMCID: PMC8327214 DOI: 10.3389/fimmu.2021.681671] [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: 03/17/2021] [Accepted: 06/25/2021] [Indexed: 11/17/2022] Open
Abstract
The sialotranscriptomes of Aedes aegypti revealed a transcript overexpressed in female salivary glands that codes a mature 7.8 kDa peptide. The peptide, specific to the Aedes genus, has a unique sequence, presents a putative secretory nature and its function is unknown. Here, we confirmed that the peptide is highly expressed in the salivary glands of female mosquitoes when compared to the salivary glands of males, and its secretion in mosquito saliva is able to sensitize the vertebrate host by inducing the production of specific antibodies. The synthetic version of the peptide downmodulated nitric oxide production by activated peritoneal murine macrophages. The fractionation of a Ae. aegypti salivary preparation revealed that the fractions containing the naturally secreted peptide reproduced the nitric oxide downmodulation. The synthetic peptide also selectively interfered with cytokine production by murine macrophages, inhibiting the production of IL-6, IL-12p40 and CCL2 without affecting TNF-α or IL-10 production. Likewise, intracellular proteins associated with macrophage activation were also distinctively modulated: while iNOS and NF-κB p65 expression were diminished, IκBα and p38 MAPK expression did not change in the presence of the peptide. The anti-inflammatory properties of the synthetic peptide were tested in vivo on a dextran sulfate sodium-induced colitis model. The therapeutic administration of the Ae. aegypti peptide reduced the leukocytosis, macrophage activity and nitric oxide levels in the gut, as well as the expression of cytokines associated with the disease, resulting in amelioration of its clinical signs. Given its biological properties in vitro and in vivo, the molecule was termed Aedes-specific MOdulatory PEptide (AeMOPE-1). Thus, AeMOPE-1 is a novel mosquito-derived immunobiologic with potential to treat immune-mediated disorders.
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Affiliation(s)
- Priscila G. Lara
- Department of Immunology, Institute of Biomedical Sciences, University of Sao Paulo, Sao Paulo, Brazil
| | - Eliane Esteves
- Department of Immunology, Institute of Biomedical Sciences, University of Sao Paulo, Sao Paulo, Brazil
| | - Helioswilton Sales-Campos
- Department of Clinical Analysis, Toxicology and Food Sciences, School of Pharmaceutical Sciences of Ribeirao Preto, University of Sao Paulo, Ribeirao Preto, Brazil
| | - Josiane B. Assis
- Department of Immunology, Institute of Biomedical Sciences, University of Sao Paulo, Sao Paulo, Brazil
| | - Maressa O. Henrique
- Department of Immunology, Institute of Biomedical Sciences, University of Sao Paulo, Sao Paulo, Brazil
| | - Michele S. Barros
- Department of Immunology, Institute of Biomedical Sciences, University of Sao Paulo, Sao Paulo, Brazil
| | - Leila S. Neto
- Department of Immunology, Institute of Biomedical Sciences, University of Sao Paulo, Sao Paulo, Brazil
| | - Pedro I. Silva
- Laboratory for Applied Toxinology, Butantan Institute, Sao Paulo, Brazil
| | - Joilson O. Martins
- Department of Clinical and Toxicological Analyses, School of Pharmaceutical Sciences, University of Sao Paulo, Sao Paulo, Brazil
| | - Cristina R. B. Cardoso
- Department of Clinical Analysis, Toxicology and Food Sciences, School of Pharmaceutical Sciences of Ribeirao Preto, University of Sao Paulo, Ribeirao Preto, Brazil
| | - José M. C. Ribeiro
- Section of Vector Biology, Laboratory of Malaria and Vector Research, National Institute of Allergy and Infectious Diseases, National Institutes of Health, Rockville, MD, United States
| | - Anderson Sá-Nunes
- Department of Immunology, Institute of Biomedical Sciences, University of Sao Paulo, Sao Paulo, Brazil
- National Institute of Science and Technology in Molecular Entomology, National Council of Scientific and Technological Development (INCT-EM/CNPq), Rio de Janeiro, Brazil
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6
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Karim S, Kumar D, Adamson S, Ennen JR, Qualls CP, Ribeiro JMC. The sialotranscriptome of the gopher-tortoise tick, Amblyomma tuberculatum. Ticks Tick Borne Dis 2020; 12:101560. [PMID: 33007669 DOI: 10.1016/j.ttbdis.2020.101560] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/23/2020] [Revised: 08/07/2020] [Accepted: 09/14/2020] [Indexed: 12/16/2022]
Abstract
The gopher tortoise tick, Amblyomma tuberculatum, is known to parasitize keystone ectotherm reptile species. The biological success of ticks requires precise mechanisms to evade host hemostatic and immune responses. Acquisition of a full blood meal requires attachment, establishment of the blood pool, and engorgement of the tick. Tick saliva contains molecules which counter the host responses to allow uninterrupted feeding on the host. RNASeq of the salivary glands of Amblyomma tuberculatum ticks were sequenced resulting in 138,030 pyrosequencing reads which were assembled into 29,991 contigs. A total of 1875 coding sequences were deduced from the transcriptome assembly, including 602 putative secretory and 982 putative housekeeping proteins. The annotated data sets are available as a hyperlinked spreadsheet. The sialotranscriptome assembled for this tick species made available a valuable resource for mining novel pharmacological activities and comparative analysis.
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Affiliation(s)
- Shahid Karim
- School of Biological, Environmental, and Earth Sciences, The University of Southern Mississippi, Hattiesburg, MS 39406, USA
| | - Deepak Kumar
- School of Biological, Environmental, and Earth Sciences, The University of Southern Mississippi, Hattiesburg, MS 39406, USA
| | - Steve Adamson
- School of Biological, Environmental, and Earth Sciences, The University of Southern Mississippi, Hattiesburg, MS 39406, USA
| | - Joshua R Ennen
- School of Biological, Environmental, and Earth Sciences, The University of Southern Mississippi, Hattiesburg, MS 39406, USA
| | - Carl P Qualls
- School of Biological, Environmental, and Earth Sciences, The University of Southern Mississippi, Hattiesburg, MS 39406, USA
| | - José M C Ribeiro
- Vector Biology Section, Laboratory of Malaria and Vector Research, National Institute of Allergy and Infectious Diseases, National Institutes of Health, 12732 Twinbrook Parkway, Room 3E28, Rockville MD 20852, USA.
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7
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Mishra M. Evolutionary Aspects of the Structural Convergence and Functional Diversification of Kunitz-Domain Inhibitors. J Mol Evol 2020; 88:537-548. [PMID: 32696206 DOI: 10.1007/s00239-020-09959-9] [Citation(s) in RCA: 14] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/24/2019] [Accepted: 07/04/2020] [Indexed: 11/28/2022]
Abstract
Kunitz-type domains are ubiquitously found in natural systems as serine protease inhibitors or animal toxins in venomous animals. Kunitz motif is a cysteine-rich peptide chain of ~ 60 amino acid residues with alpha and beta fold, stabilized by three conserved disulfide bridges. An extensive dataset of amino acid variations is found on sequence analysis of various Kunitz peptides. Kunitz peptides show diverse biological activities like inhibition of proteases of other classes and/or adopting a new function of blocking or modulating the ion channels. Based on the amino acid residues at the functional site of various Kunitz-type inhibitors, it is inferred that this 'flexibility within the structural rigidity' is responsible for multiple biological activities. Accelerated evolution of functional sites in response to the co-evolving molecular targets of the hosts of venomous animals or parasites, gene sharing, and gene duplication have been discussed as the most likely mechanisms responsible for the functional heterogeneity of Kunitz-domain inhibitors.
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Affiliation(s)
- Manasi Mishra
- Department of Life Sciences, School of Natural Sciences, Shiv Nadar University, Gautam Buddha Nagar, Uttar Pradesh, 201314, India.
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8
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Lichtenstein F, Iqbal A, de Lima Will SEA, Bosch RV, DeOcesano-Pereira C, Goldfeder MB, Chammas R, Trufen CEM, Morais KLP, de Souza JG, Natalino RJM, de Azevedo IJ, Nishiyama Junior MY, Oliveira U, Alves FIA, Araujo JM, Lobba ARM, Chudzinski-Tavassi AM. Modulation of stress and immune response by Amblyomin-X results in tumor cell death in a horse melanoma model. Sci Rep 2020; 10:6388. [PMID: 32286411 PMCID: PMC7156751 DOI: 10.1038/s41598-020-63275-2] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/02/2019] [Accepted: 03/17/2020] [Indexed: 02/08/2023] Open
Abstract
We have investigated Amblyomin-X-treated horse melanomas to better understand its mode of action through transcriptome analysis and the in vivo model. Amblyomin-X is a Kunitz-type homologous protein that selectively leads to the death of tumor cells via ER stress and apoptosis, currently under investigation as a new drug candidate for cancer treatment. Melanomas are immunogenic tumors, and a better understanding of the immune responses is warranted. Equine melanomas are spontaneous and not so aggressive as human melanomas are, as this study shows that the in vivo treatment of encapsulated horse melanoma tumors led to a significant reduction in the tumor size or even the complete disappearance of the tumor mass through intratumoral injections of Amblyomin-X. Transcriptome analysis identified ER- and mitochondria-stress, modulation of the innate immune system, apoptosis, and possibly immunogenic cell death activation. Interactome analysis showed that Amblyomin-X potentially interacts with key elements found in transcriptomics. Taken together, Amblyomin-X modulated the tumor immune microenvironment in different ways, at least contributing to induce tumor cell death.
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Affiliation(s)
- Flavio Lichtenstein
- Laboratory of Molecular Biology, Butantan Institute, São Paulo, SP, Brazil.,CENTD, Centre of Excellence in New Target Discovery, Butantan Institute, São Paulo, Brazil
| | - Asif Iqbal
- Laboratory of Molecular Biology, Butantan Institute, São Paulo, SP, Brazil.,CENTD, Centre of Excellence in New Target Discovery, Butantan Institute, São Paulo, Brazil
| | - Sonia Elisabete Alves de Lima Will
- Laboratory of Molecular Biology, Butantan Institute, São Paulo, SP, Brazil.,CENTD, Centre of Excellence in New Target Discovery, Butantan Institute, São Paulo, Brazil
| | - Rosemary Viola Bosch
- Laboratory of Molecular Biology, Butantan Institute, São Paulo, SP, Brazil.,CENTD, Centre of Excellence in New Target Discovery, Butantan Institute, São Paulo, Brazil
| | - Carlos DeOcesano-Pereira
- Laboratory of Molecular Biology, Butantan Institute, São Paulo, SP, Brazil.,CENTD, Centre of Excellence in New Target Discovery, Butantan Institute, São Paulo, Brazil
| | - Mauricio Barbugiani Goldfeder
- Laboratory of Molecular Biology, Butantan Institute, São Paulo, SP, Brazil.,CENTD, Centre of Excellence in New Target Discovery, Butantan Institute, São Paulo, Brazil
| | - Roger Chammas
- ICESP, Center for Translational Research in Oncology, Instituto do Câncer do Estado de São Paulo, Faculdade de Medicina da Universidade de São Paulo, São Paulo, Brazil
| | - Carlos Eduardo Madureira Trufen
- Laboratory of Molecular Biology, Butantan Institute, São Paulo, SP, Brazil.,CENTD, Centre of Excellence in New Target Discovery, Butantan Institute, São Paulo, Brazil
| | - Katia Luciano Pereira Morais
- Laboratory of Molecular Biology, Butantan Institute, São Paulo, SP, Brazil.,CENTD, Centre of Excellence in New Target Discovery, Butantan Institute, São Paulo, Brazil
| | - Jean Gabriel de Souza
- Laboratory of Molecular Biology, Butantan Institute, São Paulo, SP, Brazil.,CENTD, Centre of Excellence in New Target Discovery, Butantan Institute, São Paulo, Brazil
| | - Renato Jose Mendonça Natalino
- ICESP, Center for Translational Research in Oncology, Instituto do Câncer do Estado de São Paulo, Faculdade de Medicina da Universidade de São Paulo, São Paulo, Brazil
| | | | | | - Ursula Oliveira
- Laboratório Especial de Toxinologia Aplicada - CeTICS, Butantan Institute, São Paulo, Brazil
| | - Francisco Ivanio Arruda Alves
- Laboratory of Molecular Biology, Butantan Institute, São Paulo, SP, Brazil.,CENTD, Centre of Excellence in New Target Discovery, Butantan Institute, São Paulo, Brazil
| | - Jaqueline Mayara Araujo
- Laboratory of Molecular Biology, Butantan Institute, São Paulo, SP, Brazil.,CENTD, Centre of Excellence in New Target Discovery, Butantan Institute, São Paulo, Brazil
| | - Aline Ramos Maia Lobba
- Laboratory of Molecular Biology, Butantan Institute, São Paulo, SP, Brazil.,CENTD, Centre of Excellence in New Target Discovery, Butantan Institute, São Paulo, Brazil
| | - Ana Marisa Chudzinski-Tavassi
- Laboratory of Molecular Biology, Butantan Institute, São Paulo, SP, Brazil. .,CENTD, Centre of Excellence in New Target Discovery, Butantan Institute, São Paulo, Brazil.
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9
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Silva F, Guirgis A, von Aderkas P, Borchers CH, Thornburg R. LC-MS/MS based comparative proteomics of floral nectars reveal different mechanisms involved in floral defense of Nicotiana spp., Petunia hybrida and Datura stramonium. J Proteomics 2020; 213:103618. [PMID: 31846763 DOI: 10.1016/j.jprot.2019.103618] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/29/2019] [Revised: 11/01/2019] [Accepted: 12/13/2019] [Indexed: 11/19/2022]
Abstract
Tobacco floral nectar (FN) is a biological fluid produced by nectaries composed of sugars, amino acids and proteins called nectarins, involved in the floral defense. FN provides an ideal source of nutrients for microorganisms. Understanding the role of nectar proteins is essential to predict impacts in microbial growth, composition and plants-pollinators interactions. Using LC-MS/MS-based comparative proteomic analysis we identified 22 proteins from P. hybrida, 35 proteins from D. stramonium, and 144 proteins from 23 species of Nicotiana. The data are available at ProteomeXchance (PXD014760). GO analysis and secretory signal prediction demonstrated that defense/stress was the largest group of proteins in the genus Nicotiana. The Nicotiana spp. proteome consisted of 105 exclusive proteins such as lipid transfer proteins (LTPs), Nectar Redox Cycle proteins, proteases inhibitors, and PR-proteins. Analysis by taxonomic sections demonstrated that LTPs were most abundant in Undulatae and Noctiflora, while nectarins were more abundant in Rusticae, Suaveolens, Polydicliae, and Alata sections. Peroxidases (Pox) and chitinases (Chit) were exclusive to P. hybrida, while D. stramonium had only seven unique proteins. Biochemical analysis confirmed these differences. These findings support the hypothesis that, although conserved, there is differential abundance of proteins related to defense/stress which may impact the mechanisms of floral defense. SIGNIFICANCE: This study represents a comparative proteomic analysis of floral nectars of the Nicotiana spp. with two correlated Solanaceous species. Significant differences were identified between the proteome of taxonomic sections providing relevant insights into the group of proteins related to defense/stress associated with Nectar Redox Cycle, antimicrobial proteins and signaling pathways. The activity of FNs proteins is suggested impact the microbial growth. The knowledge about these proteomes provides significant insights into the diversity of proteins secreted in the nectars and the array of mechanisms used by Nicotiana spp. in its floral defense.
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Affiliation(s)
- FredyA Silva
- Department of Biochemistry, Biophysics, and Molecular Biology, Iowa State University, Ames, Iowa 50011, USA
| | - Adel Guirgis
- Department of Biochemistry, Biophysics, and Molecular Biology, Iowa State University, Ames, Iowa 50011, USA; Institute of Genetic Engineering and Biotechnology, Menofiya University, Sadat City, Egypt
| | - Patrick von Aderkas
- Centre for Forest Biology, Department of Biology, University of Victoria, Victoria, BC V8P 5C2, Canada
| | - Christoph H Borchers
- University of Victoria - Genome BC Proteomics Centre, University of Victoria, Victoria, BC V8P 5C2, Canada; Department of Biochemistry and Microbiology, University of Victoria, Victoria, BC V8P 5C2, Canada; Segal Cancer Proteomics Centre, Lady Davis Institute, Jewish General Hospital, McGill University, Montreal, Quebec H3T 1E2, Canada; Gerald Bronfman Department of Oncology, Jewish General Hospital, McGill University, Montreal, Quebec H3T 1E2, Canada
| | - Robert Thornburg
- Department of Biochemistry, Biophysics, and Molecular Biology, Iowa State University, Ames, Iowa 50011, USA.
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10
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Martins LA, Kotál J, Bensaoud C, Chmelař J, Kotsyfakis M. Small protease inhibitors in tick saliva and salivary glands and their role in tick-host-pathogen interactions. BIOCHIMICA ET BIOPHYSICA ACTA-PROTEINS AND PROTEOMICS 2020; 1868:140336. [DOI: 10.1016/j.bbapap.2019.140336] [Citation(s) in RCA: 15] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/03/2019] [Revised: 12/04/2019] [Accepted: 12/05/2019] [Indexed: 12/22/2022]
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11
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Pavon LF, Capper D, Sibov TT, de Toledo SRC, Thomale UW, de Souza JG, Cabral FR, Berra CM, Silva da Costa MD, Mendonça Niçacio J, Dastoli PA, de Oliveira DM, Malheiros SMF, da Cruz EF, Malheiros JM, de Oliveira SM, Silva NS, Petrilli AS, Cappellano AM, Brunialti MC, Salomão R, de Paiva Neto MA, Chudzinski-Tavassi AM, Cavalheiro S. New therapeutic target for pediatric anaplastic ependymoma control: study of anti-tumor activity by a Kunitz-type molecule, Amblyomin-X. Sci Rep 2019; 9:9973. [PMID: 31292491 PMCID: PMC6620274 DOI: 10.1038/s41598-019-45799-4] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/15/2017] [Accepted: 05/30/2019] [Indexed: 11/08/2022] Open
Abstract
EPNs comprise a heterogeneous group of neuroepithelial tumors, accounting for about 10% of all intracranial tumors in children and up to 30% of brain tumors in those younger than 3 years. Actually, the pattern therapy for low-grade EPNs includes complete surgical resection followed by radiation therapy. Total surgical excision is often not possible due to tumor location. The aim of this study was to evaluate, for the first time, the anti-tumor activity of Amblyomin-X in 4 primary cultures derived from pediatric anaplastic posterior fossa EPN, Group A (anaplastic, WHO grade III) and one primary culture of a high grade neuroepithelial tumor with MN1 alteration, which was initially misdiagnosed as EPN: i) by in vitro assays: comparisons of temozolomide and cisplatin; ii) by intracranial xenograft model. Amblyomin-X was able to induce cell death in EPN cells in a more significant percentage compared to cisplatin. The cytotoxic effects of Amblyomin-X were not detected on hFSCs used as control, as opposed to cisplatin-treatment, which promoted a substantial effect in the hAFSCs viability. TEM analysis showed ultrastructural alterations related to the process of cell death: mitochondrial degeneration, autophagosomes and aggregate-like structures. MRI and histopathological analyzes demonstrated significant tumor mass regression. Our results suggest that Amblyomin-X has a selective effect on tumor cells by inducing apoptotic cell death and may be a therapeutic option for Group AEPNs.
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Affiliation(s)
- Lorena Favaro Pavon
- Discipline of Neurosurgery, Federal University of São Paulo, São Paulo, São Paulo, Brazil.
| | - David Capper
- Charité -Universitätsmedizin Berlin, corporate member of Freie Universität Berlin, Humboldt-Universitätzu Berlin, and Berlin Institute of Health, Department of Neuropathology, Berlin, Germany
- German Cancer Consortium (DKTK), Partner Site Berlin, German Cancer Research Center (DKFZ), Heidelberg, Germany
| | - Tatiana Tais Sibov
- Discipline of Neurosurgery, Federal University of São Paulo, São Paulo, São Paulo, Brazil
| | - Silvia Regina Caminada de Toledo
- Pediatric Oncology Institute, Grupo de Apoio ao Adolescente e à Criança com Câncer (GRAACC), Federal University of São Paulo, São Paulo, São Paulo, Brazil
| | - Ulrich-W Thomale
- Pediatric Neurosurgery, Campus Virchow Klinikum, Charité Universitätsmedizin, Berlin, Germany
| | - Jean Gabriel de Souza
- Laboratory of Molecular Biology, Butantan Institute, São Paulo, São Paulo, Brazil
- Centre of Excellence in New Target Discovery (CENTD), Butantan Institute, São Paulo, São Paulo, Brazil
| | | | - Carolina Maria Berra
- Department of Pharmacology, Institute of Biomedical Science, University of São Paulo, São Paulo, São Paulo, Brazil
| | - Marcos Devanir Silva da Costa
- Discipline of Neurosurgery, Federal University of São Paulo, São Paulo, São Paulo, Brazil
- Pediatric Oncology Institute, Grupo de Apoio ao Adolescente e à Criança com Câncer (GRAACC), Federal University of São Paulo, São Paulo, São Paulo, Brazil
| | - Jardel Mendonça Niçacio
- Discipline of Neurosurgery, Federal University of São Paulo, São Paulo, São Paulo, Brazil
- Pediatric Oncology Institute, Grupo de Apoio ao Adolescente e à Criança com Câncer (GRAACC), Federal University of São Paulo, São Paulo, São Paulo, Brazil
| | - Patrícia Alessandra Dastoli
- Discipline of Neurosurgery, Federal University of São Paulo, São Paulo, São Paulo, Brazil
- Pediatric Oncology Institute, Grupo de Apoio ao Adolescente e à Criança com Câncer (GRAACC), Federal University of São Paulo, São Paulo, São Paulo, Brazil
| | | | - Suzana M F Malheiros
- Discipline of Neurosurgery, Federal University of São Paulo, São Paulo, São Paulo, Brazil
- Hospital Israelita Albert Einstein, São Paulo, São Paulo, Brazil
| | | | | | | | - Nasjla Saba Silva
- Pediatric Oncology Institute, Grupo de Apoio ao Adolescente e à Criança com Câncer (GRAACC), Federal University of São Paulo, São Paulo, São Paulo, Brazil
| | - Antonio Sérgio Petrilli
- Pediatric Oncology Institute, Grupo de Apoio ao Adolescente e à Criança com Câncer (GRAACC), Federal University of São Paulo, São Paulo, São Paulo, Brazil
| | - Andrea Maria Cappellano
- Pediatric Oncology Institute, Grupo de Apoio ao Adolescente e à Criança com Câncer (GRAACC), Federal University of São Paulo, São Paulo, São Paulo, Brazil
| | - Milena Colò Brunialti
- Laboratory of Immunology and Infectology, Federal University of São Paulo, São Paulo, São Paulo, Brazil
| | - Reinaldo Salomão
- Laboratory of Immunology and Infectology, Federal University of São Paulo, São Paulo, São Paulo, Brazil
| | - Manoel A de Paiva Neto
- Discipline of Neurosurgery, Federal University of São Paulo, São Paulo, São Paulo, Brazil
| | - Ana Marisa Chudzinski-Tavassi
- Laboratory of Molecular Biology, Butantan Institute, São Paulo, São Paulo, Brazil.
- Centre of Excellence in New Target Discovery (CENTD), Butantan Institute, São Paulo, São Paulo, Brazil.
| | - Sérgio Cavalheiro
- Discipline of Neurosurgery, Federal University of São Paulo, São Paulo, São Paulo, Brazil
- Pediatric Oncology Institute, Grupo de Apoio ao Adolescente e à Criança com Câncer (GRAACC), Federal University of São Paulo, São Paulo, São Paulo, Brazil
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12
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Štibrániová I, Bartíková P, Holíková V, Kazimírová M. Deciphering Biological Processes at the Tick-Host Interface Opens New Strategies for Treatment of Human Diseases. Front Physiol 2019; 10:830. [PMID: 31333488 PMCID: PMC6617849 DOI: 10.3389/fphys.2019.00830] [Citation(s) in RCA: 23] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/19/2019] [Accepted: 06/17/2019] [Indexed: 12/14/2022] Open
Abstract
Ticks are obligatory blood-feeding ectoparasites, causing blood loss and skin damage in their hosts. In addition, ticks also transmit a number of various pathogenic microorganisms that cause serious diseases in humans and animals. Ticks evolved a wide array of salivary bioactive compounds that, upon injection into the host skin, inhibit or modulate host reactions such as hemostasis, inflammation and wound healing. Modulation of the tick attachment site in the host skin involves mainly molecules which affect physiological processes orchestrated by cytokines, chemokines and growth factors. Suppressing host defense reactions is crucial for tick survival and reproduction. Furthermore, pharmacologically active compounds in tick saliva have a promising therapeutic potential for treatment of some human diseases connected with disorders in hemostasis and immune system. These disorders are often associated to alterations in signaling pathways and dysregulation or overexpression of specific cytokines which, in turn, affect mechanisms of angiogenesis, cell motility and cytoskeletal regulation. Moreover, tick salivary molecules were found to exert cytotoxic and cytolytic effects on various tumor cells and have anti-angiogenic properties. Elucidation of the mode of action of tick bioactive molecules on the regulation of cell processes in their mammalian hosts could provide new tools for understanding the complex changes leading to immune disorders and cancer. Tick bioactive molecules may also be exploited as new pharmacological inhibitors of the signaling pathways of cytokines and thus help alleviate patient discomfort and increase patient survival. We review the current knowledge about tick salivary peptides and proteins that have been identified and functionally characterized in in vitro and/or in vivo models and their therapeutic perspective.
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Affiliation(s)
- Iveta Štibrániová
- Biomedical Research Center, Institute of Virology, Slovak Academy of Sciences, Bratislava, Slovakia
| | - Pavlína Bartíková
- Biomedical Research Center, Institute of Virology, Slovak Academy of Sciences, Bratislava, Slovakia
| | - Viera Holíková
- Biomedical Research Center, Institute of Virology, Slovak Academy of Sciences, Bratislava, Slovakia
| | - Mária Kazimírová
- Institute of Zoology, Slovak Academy of Sciences, Bratislava, Slovakia
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13
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Chmelař J, Kotál J, Kovaříková A, Kotsyfakis M. The Use of Tick Salivary Proteins as Novel Therapeutics. Front Physiol 2019; 10:812. [PMID: 31297067 PMCID: PMC6607933 DOI: 10.3389/fphys.2019.00812] [Citation(s) in RCA: 28] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/25/2019] [Accepted: 06/11/2019] [Indexed: 12/12/2022] Open
Abstract
The last three decades of research into tick salivary components have revealed several proteins with important pharmacological and immunological activities. Two primary interests have driven research into tick salivary secretions: the search for suitable pathogen transmission blocking or “anti-tick” vaccine candidates and the search for novel therapeutics derived from tick salivary components. Intensive basic research in the field of tick salivary gland transcriptomics and proteomics has identified several major protein families that play important roles in tick feeding and overcoming vertebrate anti-tick responses. Moreover, these families contain members with unrealized therapeutic potential. Here we review the major tick salivary protein families exploitable in medical applications such as immunomodulation, inhibition of hemostasis and inflammation. Moreover, we discuss the potential, opportunities, and challenges in searching for novel tick-derived drugs.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jindřich Chmelař
- Department of Medical Biology, Faculty of Science, University of South Bohemia in České Budějovice, České Budějovice, Czechia
| | - Jan Kotál
- Department of Medical Biology, Faculty of Science, University of South Bohemia in České Budějovice, České Budějovice, Czechia.,Laboratory of Genomics and Proteomics of Disease Vectors, Biology Centre CAS, Institute of Parasitology, České Budějovice, Czechia
| | - Anna Kovaříková
- Department of Medical Biology, Faculty of Science, University of South Bohemia in České Budějovice, České Budějovice, Czechia
| | - Michail Kotsyfakis
- Department of Medical Biology, Faculty of Science, University of South Bohemia in České Budějovice, České Budějovice, Czechia.,Laboratory of Genomics and Proteomics of Disease Vectors, Biology Centre CAS, Institute of Parasitology, České Budějovice, Czechia
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14
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Boufleur P, Sciani JM, Goldfeder M, Faria F, Branco V, Chudzinski-Tavassi AM. Biodistribution and Pharmacokinetics of Amblyomin-X, a Novel Antitumour Protein Drug in Healthy Mice. Eur J Drug Metab Pharmacokinet 2019; 44:111-120. [PMID: 30132264 DOI: 10.1007/s13318-018-0500-z] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/28/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Amblyomin-X is a recombinant protein under development for cancer treatment owing to its selective cytotoxic activity over several tumour cell lines and tumour regression in mice models. The aim of this study was to examine the distribution and pharmacokinetics of amblyomin-X in healthy female mice. METHODS Amblyomin-X was injected intravenously into the healthy animals and at controlled times plasma and organs were removed and analysed for identification and quantification of the protein. Alternatively, the labelled protein was injected into mice and tracked in an in vivo imaging system. RESULTS Amblyomin-X was rapidly eliminated from plasma, probably because of its inability to bind to plasma albumin. After 10 min, the protein was found in the thymus and lungs, and later in the heart, liver and kidneys. In the liver, the protein was found until 24 h after a single injection. The in vivo analysis showed the same kinetics profile, besides the identification of amblyomin-X in the bladder region, indicating its elimination via urine. Only fragments of amblyomin-X were observed in the urine. CONCLUSIONS These findings suggest that amblyomin-X is rapidly distributed to the tissues, metabolized by the liver or even kidneys, and eliminated in urine in healthy mice. There is no accumulation in any organ.
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Affiliation(s)
- Pamela Boufleur
- Laboratory of Molecular Biology, Butantan Institute, São Paulo, SP, Brazil
| | - Juliana Mozer Sciani
- Laboratory of Molecular Biology, Butantan Institute, São Paulo, SP, Brazil. .,Laboratório Multidisciplinar de Pesquisa, Universidade São Francisco, Av. Francisco de Assis, 218 Cidade Universitária, Bragança Paulista, SP, 12916-900, Brazil.
| | - Mauricio Goldfeder
- Laboratory of Molecular Biology, Butantan Institute, São Paulo, SP, Brazil
| | - Fernanda Faria
- Laboratory of Molecular Biology, Butantan Institute, São Paulo, SP, Brazil
| | - Vânia Branco
- Laboratory of Molecular Biology, Butantan Institute, São Paulo, SP, Brazil
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15
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Kutova OM, Guryev EL, Sokolova EA, Alzeibak R, Balalaeva IV. Targeted Delivery to Tumors: Multidirectional Strategies to Improve Treatment Efficiency. Cancers (Basel) 2019; 11:E68. [PMID: 30634580 PMCID: PMC6356537 DOI: 10.3390/cancers11010068] [Citation(s) in RCA: 62] [Impact Index Per Article: 12.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/26/2018] [Revised: 01/06/2019] [Accepted: 01/07/2019] [Indexed: 12/13/2022] Open
Abstract
Malignant tumors are characterized by structural and molecular peculiarities providing a possibility to directionally deliver antitumor drugs with minimal impact on healthy tissues and reduced side effects. Newly formed blood vessels in malignant lesions exhibit chaotic growth, disordered structure, irregular shape and diameter, protrusions, and blind ends, resulting in immature vasculature; the newly formed lymphatic vessels also have aberrant structure. Structural features of the tumor vasculature determine relatively easy penetration of large molecules as well as nanometer-sized particles through a blood⁻tissue barrier and their accumulation in a tumor tissue. Also, malignant cells have altered molecular profile due to significant changes in tumor cell metabolism at every level from the genome to metabolome. Recently, the tumor interaction with cells of immune system becomes the focus of particular attention, that among others findings resulted in extensive study of cells with preferential tropism to tumor. In this review we summarize the information on the diversity of currently existing approaches to targeted drug delivery to tumor, including (i) passive targeting based on the specific features of tumor vasculature, (ii) active targeting which implies a specific binding of the antitumor agent with its molecular target, and (iii) cell-mediated tumor targeting.
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Affiliation(s)
- Olga M Kutova
- The Institute of Biology and Biomedicine, Lobachevsky State University of Nizhny Novgorod, 23 Gagarin ave., Nizhny Novgorod 603950, Russia.
| | - Evgenii L Guryev
- The Institute of Biology and Biomedicine, Lobachevsky State University of Nizhny Novgorod, 23 Gagarin ave., Nizhny Novgorod 603950, Russia.
| | - Evgeniya A Sokolova
- The Institute of Biology and Biomedicine, Lobachevsky State University of Nizhny Novgorod, 23 Gagarin ave., Nizhny Novgorod 603950, Russia.
| | - Razan Alzeibak
- The Institute of Biology and Biomedicine, Lobachevsky State University of Nizhny Novgorod, 23 Gagarin ave., Nizhny Novgorod 603950, Russia.
| | - Irina V Balalaeva
- The Institute of Biology and Biomedicine, Lobachevsky State University of Nizhny Novgorod, 23 Gagarin ave., Nizhny Novgorod 603950, Russia.
- The Institute of Molecular Medicine, I.M. Sechenov First Moscow State Medical University, 8-2 Trubetskaya str., Moscow 119991, Russia.
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16
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Maria DA, Will SEAL, Bosch RV, Souza JG, Sciani JM, Goldfeder MB, Rondon GG, Chudzinski-Tavassi AM. Preclinical evaluation of Amblyomin-X, a Kunitz-type protease inhibitor with antitumor activity. Toxicol Rep 2018; 6:51-63. [PMID: 30581760 PMCID: PMC6298944 DOI: 10.1016/j.toxrep.2018.11.014] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/04/2018] [Revised: 11/28/2018] [Accepted: 11/29/2018] [Indexed: 12/24/2022] Open
Abstract
Amblyomin-X is a recombinant protein with selective antitumor activity, causing tumor reduction in vivo. Acute and subchronic toxicity studies shows low toxicity in healthy mice, with reversible adverse effects. Amblyomin-X toxicity profile was defined.
Amblyomin-X, a Kunitz-type protease inhibitor, is a recombinant protein that selectively induces apoptosis in tumor cells and promotes tumor reduction in vivo in melanoma animal models. Furthermore, Amblyomin-X was able to drastically reduce lung metastasis in a mice orthotopic kidney tumor model. Due to its antitumor activity, Amblyomin-X potential to become a new drug is currently under investigation, therefore the aim of the present study was to perform preclinical assays to evaluate Amblyomin-X toxicity in healthy mice. Exploratory toxicity assays have shown that treatment with 512 mg/kg of Amblyomin-X lead to animal mortality, therefore two groups of treatment were evaluated in the present work: in the acute toxicity assay, animals were injected once with doses ranging from 4 to 256 mg/kg of Amblyomin-X, while in the subacute toxicity assay, animals were injected with 0.25, 0.57 and 1 mg/kg of Amblyomin-X daily, during 28 days. Following this treatment regimens, Amblyomin-X did not cause any mortality; moreover, toxicity signs were discrete, reversible and observed only at the higher doses, thus establishing a safety profile for administration in mice, which can be further used to determine the dose translation of this novel drug candidate for treatment in other species.
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Affiliation(s)
- Durvanei A Maria
- Laboratório de Biologia Molecular, Instituto Butantan, Av. Vital Brasil, 1500, São Paulo, 05503-900, SP, Brazil
| | - Sonia Elisabete A L Will
- Laboratório de Biologia Molecular, Instituto Butantan, Av. Vital Brasil, 1500, São Paulo, 05503-900, SP, Brazil
| | - Rosemary V Bosch
- Laboratório de Biologia Molecular, Instituto Butantan, Av. Vital Brasil, 1500, São Paulo, 05503-900, SP, Brazil
| | - Jean G Souza
- Laboratório de Biologia Molecular, Instituto Butantan, Av. Vital Brasil, 1500, São Paulo, 05503-900, SP, Brazil
| | - Juliana M Sciani
- Laboratório de Biologia Molecular, Instituto Butantan, Av. Vital Brasil, 1500, São Paulo, 05503-900, SP, Brazil
| | - Mauricio B Goldfeder
- Laboratório de Biologia Molecular, Instituto Butantan, Av. Vital Brasil, 1500, São Paulo, 05503-900, SP, Brazil
| | - Giuliana G Rondon
- Laboratório de Biologia Molecular, Instituto Butantan, Av. Vital Brasil, 1500, São Paulo, 05503-900, SP, Brazil
| | - Ana M Chudzinski-Tavassi
- Laboratório de Biologia Molecular, Instituto Butantan, Av. Vital Brasil, 1500, São Paulo, 05503-900, SP, Brazil
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17
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Schmidt MCB, Morais KLP, Almeida MESD, Iqbal A, Goldfeder MB, Chudzinski-Tavassi AM. Amblyomin-X, a recombinant Kunitz-type inhibitor, regulates cell adhesion and migration of human tumor cells. Cell Adh Migr 2018; 14:129-138. [PMID: 30238848 PMCID: PMC7527229 DOI: 10.1080/19336918.2018.1516982] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/28/2022] Open
Abstract
In a tumor microenvironment, endothelial cell migration and angiogenesis allow cancer to spread to other organs causing metastasis. Indeed, a number of molecules that are involved in cytoskeleton re-organization and intracellular signaling have been investigated for their effects on tumor cell growth and metastasis. Alongside that, Amblyomin-X, a recombinant Kunitz-type protein, has been shown to reduce metastasis and tumor growth in in vivo experiments. In the present report, we provide a mechanistic insight to these antitumor effects, this is, Amblyomin-X modulates Rho-GTPases and uPAR signaling, and reduces the release of MMPs, leading to disruption of the actin cytoskeleton and decreased cell migration of tumor cell lines. Altogether, our data support a role for Amblyomin-X as a novel potential antitumor drug. ABBREVIATIONS Amb-X: Amblyomin-X; ECGF: endotelial cell growth factor; ECM: extracellular matrix; GAPDH: glyceraldehyde-3-phosphate dehydrogenase; HUVEC: human umbilical vein endothelial cell; LRP1: low-density lipoprotein receptor-related protein; MMP: matrix metalloproteinase; HPI-4: hedgehog pathway inhibitor 4; PAI-1: plasminogen activator inhibitor 1; PMA: phorbol 12-myristate-13-acetate; TFPI: tissue factor pathway inhibitor; uPA: urokinase plasminogen activator; uPAR: uPA receptor.
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Affiliation(s)
- Mariana Costa Braga Schmidt
- Laboratory of Molecular Biology, Butantan Institute , São Paulo, SP, Brazil.,Departament of Biochemistry, Federal University of São Paulo , São Paulo, SP, Brazil
| | - Katia L P Morais
- Laboratory of Molecular Biology, Butantan Institute , São Paulo, SP, Brazil.,Departament of Biochemistry, Federal University of São Paulo , São Paulo, SP, Brazil.,Centre of Excellence in New Target Discovery, Butantan Institute , São Paulo, SP, Brazil
| | - Maíra Estanislau Soares de Almeida
- Laboratory of Molecular Biology, Butantan Institute , São Paulo, SP, Brazil.,Centre of Excellence in New Target Discovery, Butantan Institute , São Paulo, SP, Brazil
| | - Asif Iqbal
- Laboratory of Molecular Biology, Butantan Institute , São Paulo, SP, Brazil.,Centre of Excellence in New Target Discovery, Butantan Institute , São Paulo, SP, Brazil
| | - Mauricio Barbugiani Goldfeder
- Laboratory of Molecular Biology, Butantan Institute , São Paulo, SP, Brazil.,Centre of Excellence in New Target Discovery, Butantan Institute , São Paulo, SP, Brazil
| | - Ana Marisa Chudzinski-Tavassi
- Laboratory of Molecular Biology, Butantan Institute , São Paulo, SP, Brazil.,Departament of Biochemistry, Federal University of São Paulo , São Paulo, SP, Brazil
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18
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Murfin KE, Fikrig E. Tick Bioactive Molecules as Novel Therapeutics: Beyond Vaccine Targets. Front Cell Infect Microbiol 2017. [PMID: 28634573 PMCID: PMC5459892 DOI: 10.3389/fcimb.2017.00222] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/13/2022] Open
Affiliation(s)
- Kristen E Murfin
- Section of Infectious Disease, Department of Internal Medicine, Yale University School of MedicineNew Haven, CT, United States
| | - Erol Fikrig
- Section of Infectious Disease, Department of Internal Medicine, Yale University School of MedicineNew Haven, CT, United States.,Howard Hughes Medical InstituteChevy Chase, MD, United States.,Department of Microbial Pathogenesis, Yale UniversityNew Haven, CT, United States
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