1
|
You S, McIntyre G, Passioura T. The coming of age of cyclic peptide drugs: an update on discovery technologies. Expert Opin Drug Discov 2024:1-13. [PMID: 38872502 DOI: 10.1080/17460441.2024.2367024] [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: 04/25/2024] [Accepted: 06/07/2024] [Indexed: 06/15/2024]
Abstract
INTRODUCTION Cyclic peptides are an established class of pharmaceuticals, with the ability to bind to a broader range of protein targets than traditional small molecules while also being capable of oral availability and cell penetration. Historically, cyclic peptide drugs have been discovered almost exclusively through natural product mining approaches; however, the last two decades have seen the development of display screening approaches capable of rapidly identifying de novo (i.e. not natural product derived) cyclic peptide ligands to targets of interest. AREAS COVERED In this review, the authors describe the current clinical landscape for cyclic peptide pharmaceuticals. This article focuses on the discovery approaches that have led to the development of different classes of molecules and how the development of newer technologies, particularly phage and mRNA display, has broadened the clinical applicability of such molecules. EXPERT OPINION The field of de novo cyclic peptide drug discovery is reaching maturity, with the first drugs identified through display screening approaches reaching the market in recent years. Many more are in clinical trials; however, significant technical challenges remain. Technological improvements will be required over the coming years to facilitate the identification of membrane permeable cyclic peptides capable of oral availability and targeting intracellular proteins.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Sophia You
- Insamo South, Chippendale, NSW, Australia
| | | | - Toby Passioura
- School of Chemistry, The University of Sydney, Camperdown, NSW, Australia
| |
Collapse
|
2
|
Rodriguez Galvan JJ, de Vries M, Belblidia S, Fisher A, Prescott RA, Crosse KM, Mangel WF, Duerr R, Dittmann M. In-silico docking platform with serine protease inhibitor (SERPIN) structures identifies host cysteine protease targets with significance for SARS-CoV-2. BIORXIV : THE PREPRINT SERVER FOR BIOLOGY 2024:2022.11.18.517133. [PMID: 36415456 PMCID: PMC9681043 DOI: 10.1101/2022.11.18.517133] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 06/16/2023]
Abstract
Serine Protease Inhibitors (SERPINs) regulate protease activity in various physiological processes such as inflammation, cancer metastasis, angiogenesis, and neurodegenerative diseases. However, their potential in combating viral infections, where proteases are also crucial, remains underexplored. This is due to our limited understanding of SERPIN expression during viral-induced inflammation and of the SERPINs' full spectrum of target proteases. Here, we demonstrate widespread expression of human SERPINs in response to respiratory virus infections, both in vitro and in vivo , alongside classical antiviral effectors. Through comprehensive in-silico docking with full-length SERPIN and protease 3D structures, we confirm known inhibitors of specific proteases; more importantly, the results predict novel SERPIN-protease interactions. Experimentally, we validate the direct inhibition of key proteases essential for viral life cycles, including the SERPIN PAI-1's capability to inhibit select cysteine proteases such as cathepsin L, and the serine protease TMPRSS2. Consequently, PAI-1 suppresses spike maturation and multi-cycle SARS-CoV-2 replication. Our findings challenge conventional notions of SERPIN selectivity, underscore the power of in-silico docking for SERPIN target discovery, and offer potential therapeutic interventions targeting host proteolytic pathways to combat viruses with urgent unmet therapeutic needs. SIGNIFICANCE Serine protease inhibitors (SERPINs) play crucial roles in various physiological processes, including viral infections. However, our comprehension of the full array of proteases targeted by the SERPIN family has traditionally been limited, hindering a comprehensive understanding of their regulatory potential. We developed an in-silico docking platform to identify new SERPIN target proteases expressed in the respiratory tract, a critical viral entry portal. The platform confirmed known and predicted new targets for every SERPIN examined, shedding light on previously unrecognized patterns in SERPIN selectivity. Notably, both key proteases for SARS-CoV-2 maturation were among the newly predicted targets, which we validated experimentally. This underscores the platform's potential in uncovering targets with significance in viral infections, paving the way to define the full potential of the SERPIN family in infectious disease and beyond.
Collapse
|
3
|
Borges PHO, Ferreira SB, Silva FP. Recent Advances on Targeting Proteases for Antiviral Development. Viruses 2024; 16:366. [PMID: 38543732 PMCID: PMC10976044 DOI: 10.3390/v16030366] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/19/2024] [Revised: 02/21/2024] [Accepted: 02/24/2024] [Indexed: 05/23/2024] Open
Abstract
Viral proteases are an important target for drug development, since they can modulate vital pathways in viral replication, maturation, assembly and cell entry. With the (re)appearance of several new viruses responsible for causing diseases in humans, like the West Nile virus (WNV) and the recent severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2 (SARS-CoV-2), understanding the mechanisms behind blocking viral protease's function is pivotal for the development of new antiviral drugs and therapeutical strategies. Apart from directly inhibiting the target protease, usually by targeting its active site, several new pathways have been explored to impair its activity, such as inducing protein aggregation, targeting allosteric sites or by inducing protein degradation by cellular proteasomes, which can be extremely valuable when considering the emerging drug-resistant strains. In this review, we aim to discuss the recent advances on a broad range of viral proteases inhibitors, therapies and molecular approaches for protein inactivation or degradation, giving an insight on different possible strategies against this important class of antiviral target.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Pedro Henrique Oliveira Borges
- Laboratory of Organic Synthesis and Biological Prospecting, Chemistry Institute, Federal University of Rio de Janeiro, Rio de Janeiro 21941-909, Brazil;
- Laboratory of Experimental and Computational Biochemistry of Drugs, Oswaldo Cruz Institute, Fiocruz, Rio de Janeiro 21040-900, Brazil
| | - Sabrina Baptista Ferreira
- Laboratory of Organic Synthesis and Biological Prospecting, Chemistry Institute, Federal University of Rio de Janeiro, Rio de Janeiro 21941-909, Brazil;
| | - Floriano Paes Silva
- Laboratory of Experimental and Computational Biochemistry of Drugs, Oswaldo Cruz Institute, Fiocruz, Rio de Janeiro 21040-900, Brazil
| |
Collapse
|
4
|
Kamal S, Shahzad A, Rehman K, Tariq K, Akash MSH, Imran M, Assiri MA. Therapeutic Intervention of Serine Protease Inhibitors against Hepatitis C Virus. Curr Med Chem 2024; 31:2052-2072. [PMID: 37855348 DOI: 10.2174/0109298673234823230921090431] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/16/2022] [Revised: 05/12/2023] [Accepted: 05/23/2023] [Indexed: 10/20/2023]
Abstract
Hepatitis C virus (HCV) is a globally prevalent and hazardous disorder that is responsible for inducing several persistent and potentially fatal liver diseases. Current treatment strategies offer limited efficacy, often accompanied by severe and debilitating adverse effects. Consequently, there is an urgent and compelling need to develop novel therapeutic interventions that can provide maximum efficacy in combating HCV while minimizing the burden of adverse effects on patients. One promising target against HCV is the NS3-4A serine protease, a complex composed of two HCV-encoded proteins. This non-covalent heterodimer is crucial in the viral life cycle and has become a primary focus for therapeutic interventions. Although peginterferon, combined with ribavirin, is commonly employed for HCV treatment, its efficacy is hampered by significant adverse effects that can profoundly impact patients' quality of life. In recent years, the development of direct-acting antiviral agents (DAAs) has emerged as a breakthrough in HCV therapy. These agents exhibit remarkable potency against the virus and have demonstrated fewer adverse effects when combined with other DAAs. However, it is important to note that there is a potential for developing resistance to DAAs due to alterations in the amino acid position of the NS3-4A protease. This emphasizes the need for ongoing research to identify strategies that can minimize the emergence of resistance and ensure long-term effectiveness. While the combination of DAAs holds promise for HCV treatment, it is crucial to consider the possibility of drug-drug interactions. These interactions may occur when different DAAs are used concurrently, potentially compromising their therapeutic efficacy. Therefore, carefully evaluating and monitoring potential drug interactions are vital to optimize treatment outcomes. In the pursuit of novel therapeutic interventions for HCV, the field of computational biology and bioinformatics has emerged as a valuable tool. These advanced technologies and methodologies enable the development and design of new drugs and therapeutic agents that exhibit maximum efficacy, reduced risk of resistance, and minimal adverse effects. By leveraging computational approaches, researchers can efficiently screen and optimize potential candidates, accelerating the discovery and development of highly effective treatments for HCV, treatments.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Shagufta Kamal
- Department of Biochemistry, Government College University, Faisalabad, Pakistan
| | - Asif Shahzad
- Department of Biochemistry, Government College University, Faisalabad, Pakistan
| | - Kanwal Rehman
- Department of Pharmacy, The Women University, Multan, Pakistan
| | - Komal Tariq
- Department of Biochemistry, Government College University, Faisalabad, Pakistan
| | | | - Muhammad Imran
- Research center for Advanced Materials Science (RCAMS), King Khalid University, Abha, Saudi Arabia
- Department of Chemistry, Faculty of Science, King Khalid University, Abha, Saudi Arabia
| | - Mohammed Ali Assiri
- Research center for Advanced Materials Science (RCAMS), King Khalid University, Abha, Saudi Arabia
- Department of Chemistry, Faculty of Science, King Khalid University, Abha, Saudi Arabia
| |
Collapse
|
5
|
Puhl AC, Godoy AS, Noske GD, Nakamura AM, Gawriljuk VO, Fernandes RS, Oliva G, Ekins S. Discovery of PL pro and M pro Inhibitors for SARS-CoV-2. ACS OMEGA 2023; 8:22603-22612. [PMID: 37387790 PMCID: PMC10275482 DOI: 10.1021/acsomega.3c01110] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/18/2023] [Accepted: 06/01/2023] [Indexed: 07/01/2023]
Abstract
There are very few small-molecule antivirals for SARS-CoV-2 that are either currently approved (or emergency authorized) in the US or globally, including remdesivir, molnupiravir, and paxlovid. The increasing number of SARS-CoV-2 variants that have appeared since the outbreak began over three years ago raises the need for continual development of updated vaccines and orally available antivirals in order to fully protect or treat the population. The viral main protease (Mpro) and the papain-like protease (PLpro) are key for viral replication; therefore, they represent valuable targets for antiviral therapy. We herein describe an in vitro screen performed using the 2560 compounds from the Microsource Spectrum library against Mpro and PLpro in an attempt to identify additional small-molecule hits that could be repurposed for SARS-CoV-2. We subsequently identified 2 hits for Mpro and 8 hits for PLpro. One of these hits was the quaternary ammonium compound cetylpyridinium chloride with dual activity (IC50 = 2.72 ± 0.09 μM for PLpro and IC50 = 7.25 ± 0.15 μM for Mpro). A second inhibitor of PLpro was the selective estrogen receptor modulator raloxifene (IC50 = 3.28 ± 0.29 μM for PLpro and IC50 = 42.8 ± 6.7 μM for Mpro). We additionally tested several kinase inhibitors and identified olmutinib (IC50 = 0.54 ± 0.04 μM), bosutinib (IC50 = 4.23 ± 0.28 μM), crizotinib (IC50 = 3.81 ± 0.04 μM), and dacominitinib (IC50 = IC50 3.33 ± 0.06 μM) as PLpro inhibitors for the first time. In some cases, these molecules have also been tested by others for antiviral activity for this virus, or we have used Calu-3 cells infected with SARS-CoV-2. The results suggest that approved drugs can be identified with promising activity against these proteases, and in several cases we or others have validated their antiviral activity. The additional identification of known kinase inhibitors as molecules targeting PLpro may provide new repurposing opportunities or starting points for chemical optimization.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Ana C. Puhl
- Collaborations
Pharmaceuticals, Inc., 840 Main Campus Drive, Lab 3510, Raleigh, North Carolina 27606, United States
| | - Andre S. Godoy
- Sao
Carlos Institute of Physics, University
of Sao Paulo, Av. Joao
Dagnone, 1100—Jardim Santa Angelina, Sao Carlos 13563-120, Brazil
| | - Gabriela D. Noske
- Sao
Carlos Institute of Physics, University
of Sao Paulo, Av. Joao
Dagnone, 1100—Jardim Santa Angelina, Sao Carlos 13563-120, Brazil
| | - Aline M. Nakamura
- Sao
Carlos Institute of Physics, University
of Sao Paulo, Av. Joao
Dagnone, 1100—Jardim Santa Angelina, Sao Carlos 13563-120, Brazil
| | - Victor O. Gawriljuk
- Sao
Carlos Institute of Physics, University
of Sao Paulo, Av. Joao
Dagnone, 1100—Jardim Santa Angelina, Sao Carlos 13563-120, Brazil
| | - Rafaela S. Fernandes
- Sao
Carlos Institute of Physics, University
of Sao Paulo, Av. Joao
Dagnone, 1100—Jardim Santa Angelina, Sao Carlos 13563-120, Brazil
| | - Glaucius Oliva
- Sao
Carlos Institute of Physics, University
of Sao Paulo, Av. Joao
Dagnone, 1100—Jardim Santa Angelina, Sao Carlos 13563-120, Brazil
| | - Sean Ekins
- Collaborations
Pharmaceuticals, Inc., 840 Main Campus Drive, Lab 3510, Raleigh, North Carolina 27606, United States
| |
Collapse
|
6
|
Toussi SS, Hammond JL, Gerstenberger BS, Anderson AS. Therapeutics for COVID-19. Nat Microbiol 2023; 8:771-786. [PMID: 37142688 DOI: 10.1038/s41564-023-01356-4] [Citation(s) in RCA: 38] [Impact Index Per Article: 38.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/25/2021] [Accepted: 03/09/2023] [Indexed: 05/06/2023]
Abstract
Vaccines and monoclonal antibody treatments to prevent severe coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) illness were available within a year of the pandemic being declared but there remained an urgent need for therapeutics to treat patients who were not vaccinated, were immunocompromised or whose vaccine immunity had waned. Initial results for investigational therapies were mixed. AT-527, a repurposed nucleoside inhibitor for hepatitis C virus, enabled viral load reduction in a hospitalized cohort but did not reduce viral load in outpatients. The nucleoside inhibitor molnupiravir prevented death but failed to prevent hospitalization. Nirmatrelvir, an inhibitor of the main protease (Mpro), co-dosed with the pharmacokinetic booster ritonavir, reduced hospitalization and death. Nirmatrelvir-ritonavir and molnupiravir received an Emergency Use Authorization in the United States at the end of 2021. Immunomodulatory drugs such as baricitinib, tocilizumab and corticosteroid, which target host-driven COVID-19 symptoms, are also in use. We highlight the development of COVID-19 therapies and the challenges that remain for anticoronavirals.
Collapse
|
7
|
Solo P, Arockia doss M. Imidazole-Based Alkaloids from Marine Sponges ( Leucetta and Clathrina) as Potential Inhibitors Targeting SARS-CoV-2 Main Protease: An In Silico Approach. Polycycl Aromat Compd 2023. [DOI: 10.1080/10406638.2023.2182796] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 03/06/2023]
Affiliation(s)
- Peter Solo
- Department of Chemistry, St. Joseph University, Dimapur, India
- Department of Chemistry, St. Joseph’s College (Autonomous), Jakhama, India
| | - M. Arockia doss
- Department of Chemistry, St. Joseph University, Dimapur, India
| |
Collapse
|
8
|
Mengist HM, Khalid Z, Adane F. In silico Screening of Potential SARS-CoV-2 Main Protease Inhibitors from Thymus schimperi. Adv Appl Bioinform Chem 2023; 16:1-13. [PMID: 36699952 PMCID: PMC9868284 DOI: 10.2147/aabc.s393084] [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: 10/30/2022] [Accepted: 01/11/2023] [Indexed: 01/19/2023] Open
Abstract
Background COVID-19 is still instigating significant social and economic chaos worldwide; however, there is no approved antiviral drug yet. Here, we used in silico analysis to screen potential SARS-CoV-2 main protease (Mpro) inhibitors extracted from the essential oil of Thymus schimperi which could contribute to the discovery of potent anti-SARS-CoV-2 phytochemicals. Methods The absorption, distribution, metabolism, excretion, and toxicity (ADMET) profiles of compounds were determined through SwissADME and ProToxII servers. AutoDock tools were used for molecular docking analysis studies, while Chimera, DS studio, and LigPlot were used for post-docking studies. Molecular dynamic simulations were performed for 200 ns under constant pressure. Results All compounds exhibited a bioavailability score of ≥0.55 entailing that at least 55% of the drugs can be absorbed unchanged. Only five (9%), nine (16%) and two (3.6%) of the compounds showed active hepatotoxicity, carcinogenicity, and immunotoxicity, respectively. Except for flourazophore P, which showed a little mutagenicity, all other compounds did not show mutagenic properties. On the other hand, only pinene beta was found to have a little cytotoxicity. Five compounds demonstrated effective binding to the catalytic dyad of the SARS-CoV-2 Mpro substrate binding pocket, while two of them (geranylisobutanoate and 3-octane) are found to be the best hits that formed hydrogen bonds with Glu166 and Ser144 of SARS-CoV-2 Mpro. Conclusion Based on our in silico analysis, top hits from Thymus schimperi may serve as potential anti-SARS-CoV-2 compounds. Further in vitro and in vivo studies are recommended to characterize these compounds for clinical applications.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Hylemariam Mihiretie Mengist
- Department of Medical Laboratory Science, College of Medical and Health Sciences, Debre Markos University, Debre Markos, Ethiopia,Correspondence: Hylemariam Mihiretie Mengist, Email
| | - Zunera Khalid
- School of Basic Medical Sciences, Division of Life Sciences and Medicine, University of Science & Technology of China, Langfang, People’s Republic of China
| | - Fentahun Adane
- Department of Biomedical Sciences, College of Medical and Health Sciences, Debre Markos University, Debre Markos, Ethiopia
| |
Collapse
|
9
|
Sahoo P, Lenka DR, Batabyal M, Pain PK, Kumar S, Manna D, Kumar A. Detailed Insights into the Inhibitory Mechanism of New Ebselen Derivatives against Main Protease (M pro) of Severe Acute Respiratory Syndrome Coronavirus-2 (SARS-CoV-2). ACS Pharmacol Transl Sci 2022; 6:171-180. [PMID: 36650888 PMCID: PMC9797022 DOI: 10.1021/acsptsci.2c00203] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/20/2022] [Indexed: 12/24/2022]
Abstract
SARS-CoV-2 main protease (Mpro/3CLpro) is a crucial target for therapeutics, which is responsible for viral polyprotein cleavage and plays a vital role in virus replication and survival. Recent studies suggest that 2-phenylbenzisoselenazol-3(2H)-one (ebselen) is a potent covalent inhibitor of Mpro, which affects its enzymatic activity and virus survival. Herein, we synthesized various ebselen derivatives to understand the mechanism of Mpro inhibition by ebselen. Using ebselen derivatives, we characterized the detailed interaction mechanism with Mpro. We discovered that modification of the parent ebselen inhibitor with an electron-withdrawing group (NO2) increases the inhibition efficacy by 2-fold. We also solved the structure of an Mpro complex with an ebselen derivative showing the mechanism of inhibition by blocking the catalytic Cys145 of Mpro. Using a combination of crystal structures and LC-MS data, we showed that Mpro hydrolyzes the new ebselen derivative and leaves behind selenium (Se) bound with Cys145 of the catalytic dyad of Mpro. We also described the binding profile of ebselen-based inhibitors using molecular modeling predictions supported by binding and inhibition assays. Furthermore, we have also solved the crystal structure of catalytically inactive mutant H41N-Mpro, which represents the inactive state of the protein where the substrate binding pocket is blocked. The inhibited structure of H41N-Mpro shows gatekeeper residues in the substrate binding pocket responsible for blocking the substrate binding; mutation of these gatekeeper residues leads to hyperactive Mpro.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Pritiranjan Sahoo
- Department
of Biological Sciences, Indian Institute
of Science Education and Research (IISER) Bhopal, Bhopal, Madhya Pradesh 462066, India
| | - Dipti Ranjan Lenka
- Department
of Biological Sciences, Indian Institute
of Science Education and Research (IISER) Bhopal, Bhopal, Madhya Pradesh 462066, India
| | - Monojit Batabyal
- Department
of Chemistry, Indian Institute of Science
Education and Research (IISER) Bhopal, Bhopal, Madhya Pradesh 462066, India
| | - Pritam Kumar Pain
- Department
of Chemistry, Indian Institute of Science
Education and Research (IISER) Bhopal, Bhopal, Madhya Pradesh 462066, India
| | - Sangit Kumar
- Department
of Chemistry, Indian Institute of Science
Education and Research (IISER) Bhopal, Bhopal, Madhya Pradesh 462066, India
| | - Debasish Manna
- Department
of Chemistry, Indian Institute of Science
Education and Research (IISER) Bhopal, Bhopal, Madhya Pradesh 462066, India
| | - Atul Kumar
- Department
of Biological Sciences, Indian Institute
of Science Education and Research (IISER) Bhopal, Bhopal, Madhya Pradesh 462066, India,
| |
Collapse
|
10
|
Massih SA, Eke AC. Direct antiviral agents (DAAs) and their use in pregnant women with hepatitis C (HCV). Expert Rev Anti Infect Ther 2022; 20:1413-1424. [PMID: 36111676 PMCID: PMC9588700 DOI: 10.1080/14787210.2022.2125868] [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: 07/10/2022] [Accepted: 09/14/2022] [Indexed: 12/15/2022]
Abstract
INTRODUCTION Direct-Acting Antiviral Agents (DAAs) provide safer, efficacious, tolerable, and curative therapy for women with hepatitis C. Their preferred safety and efficacy profile make them potential therapies for the elimination of perinatal transmission of hepatitis C virus (HCV). However, DAAs are not currently recommended for use during pregnancy due to limited pharmacokinetic and safety data. AREAS COVERED This review covers the different DAA drug combinations, the available data on their pharmacodynamic and pharmacokinetic properties, how the physiology in pregnancy can potentially affect DAA drug disposition, known drug-drug interactions with DAAs, and available and planned epidemiological and pharmacokinetic studies on DAA use during pregnancy. Although no large randomized clinical trials or prospective cohort studies involving DAAs have been completed in pregnancy, the currently available studies demonstrate no significant changes in pharmacokinetics, and no major safety concerns in women with hepatitis C. EXPERT OPINION Initial pharmacokinetic and safety data suggest that DAAs have high efficacy and a low risk of adverse events during pregnancy. As more pharmacokinetic and epidemiologic data become available, DAAs could become a preferred option for treating HCV during pregnancy and elimination of perinatal transmission of hepatitis C virus.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Sandra Abdul Massih
- Division of Clinical Pharmacology & Infectious Diseases, Department of Medicine, Johns Hopkins University School of Medicine, 1800 Orleans Street, Baltimore, MD 21287
| | - Ahizechukwu C. Eke
- Division of Clinical Pharmacology & Infectious Diseases, Department of Medicine, Johns Hopkins University School of Medicine, 1800 Orleans Street, Baltimore, MD 21287
- Division of Maternal Fetal Medicine, Department of Gynecology & Obstetrics, Johns Hopkins University School of Medicine, 600 N Wolfe Street, Phipps 228, Baltimore, MD 21287
| |
Collapse
|
11
|
Molecular Epidemiology and Baseline Resistance of Hepatitis C Virus to Direct Acting Antivirals in Croatia. Pathogens 2022; 11:pathogens11070808. [PMID: 35890052 PMCID: PMC9323280 DOI: 10.3390/pathogens11070808] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/23/2022] [Revised: 07/15/2022] [Accepted: 07/18/2022] [Indexed: 02/04/2023] Open
Abstract
Molecular epidemiology of hepatitis C virus (HCV) is exceptionally complex due to the highly diverse HCV genome. Genetic diversity, transmission dynamics, and epidemic history of the most common HCV genotypes were inferred by population sequencing of the HCV NS3, NS5A, and NS5B region followed by phylogenetic and phylodynamic analysis. The results of this research suggest high overall prevalence of baseline NS3 resistance associate substitutions (RAS) (33.0%), moderate prevalence of NS5A RAS (13.7%), and low prevalence of nucleoside inhibitor NS5B RAS (8.3%). Prevalence of RAS significantly differed according to HCV genotype, with the highest prevalence of baseline resistance to NS3 inhibitors and NS5A inhibitors observed in HCV subtype 1a (68.8%) and subtype 1b (21.3%), respectively. Phylogenetic tree reconstructions showed two distinct clades within the subtype 1a, clade I (62.4%) and clade II (37.6%). NS3 RAS were preferentially associated with clade I. Phylogenetic analysis demonstrated that 27 (9.0%) HCV sequences had a presumed epidemiological link with another sequence and classified into 13 transmission pairs or clusters which were predominantly comprised of subtype 3a viruses and commonly detected among intravenous drug users (IDU). Phylodynamic analyses highlighted an exponential increase in subtype 1a and 3a effective population size in the late 20th century, which is a period associated with an explosive increase in the number of IDU in Croatia.
Collapse
|
12
|
Kumar A, Sharma M, Richardson CD, Kelvin DJ. Potential of Natural Alkaloids From Jadwar ( Delphinium denudatum) as Inhibitors Against Main Protease of COVID-19: A Molecular Modeling Approach. Front Mol Biosci 2022; 9:898874. [PMID: 35620478 PMCID: PMC9127362 DOI: 10.3389/fmolb.2022.898874] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/18/2022] [Accepted: 04/08/2022] [Indexed: 02/05/2023] Open
Abstract
The ongoing pandemic coronavirus disease (COVID-19) caused by a novel corona virus, namely, severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus-2 (SARS-CoV-2), has had a major impact on global public health. COVID-19 cases continue to increase across the globe with high mortality rates in immunocompromised patients. There is still a pressing demand for drug discovery and vaccine development against this highly contagious disease. To design and develop antiviral drugs against COVID-19, the main protease (Mpro) has emerged as one of the important drug targets. In this context, the present work explored Jadwar (Delphinium denudatum)-derived natural alkaloids as potential inhibitors against Mpro of SARS-CoV-2 by employing a combination of molecular docking and molecular dynamic simulation-based methods. Molecular docking and interaction profile analysis revealed strong binding on the Mpro functional domain with four natural alkaloids viz. panicutine (-7.4 kcal/mol), vilmorrianone (-7.0 kcal/mol), denudatine (-6.0 kcal/mol), and condelphine (-5.9 kcal/mol). The molecular docking results evaluated by using the MD simulations on 200 nanoseconds confirmed highly stable interactions of these compounds with the Mpro. Additionally, mechanics/generalized Born/Poisson-Boltzmann surface area (MM/G/P/BSA) free energy calculations also affirmed the docking results. Natural alkaloids explored in the present study possess the essential drug-likeness properties, namely, absorption, distribution, metabolism, and excretion (ADME), and are in accordance with Lipinski's rule of five. The results of this study suggest that these four bioactive molecules, namely, condelphine, denudatine, panicutine, and vilmorrianone, might be effective candidates against COVID-19 and can be further investigated using a number of experimental methods.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Anuj Kumar
- Laboratory of Immunity, Shantou University Medical College, Shantou, China
- Department of Microbiology and Immunology, Canadian Centre for Vaccinology CCfV, Faculty of Medicine, Dalhousie University, Halifax, Canada
| | - Mansi Sharma
- Laboratory of Immunity, Shantou University Medical College, Shantou, China
- Department of Microbiology and Immunology, Canadian Centre for Vaccinology CCfV, Faculty of Medicine, Dalhousie University, Halifax, Canada
| | - Christopher D. Richardson
- Department of Microbiology and Immunology, Canadian Centre for Vaccinology CCfV, Faculty of Medicine, Dalhousie University, Halifax, Canada
| | - David J. Kelvin
- Laboratory of Immunity, Shantou University Medical College, Shantou, China
- Department of Microbiology and Immunology, Canadian Centre for Vaccinology CCfV, Faculty of Medicine, Dalhousie University, Halifax, Canada
| |
Collapse
|
13
|
Narayanan A, Narwal M, Majowicz SA, Varricchio C, Toner SA, Ballatore C, Brancale A, Murakami KS, Jose J. Identification of SARS-CoV-2 inhibitors targeting Mpro and PLpro using in-cell-protease assay. Commun Biol 2022; 5:169. [PMID: 35217718 PMCID: PMC8881501 DOI: 10.1038/s42003-022-03090-9] [Citation(s) in RCA: 96] [Impact Index Per Article: 48.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/24/2021] [Accepted: 02/01/2022] [Indexed: 01/08/2023] Open
Abstract
SARS-CoV-2 proteases Mpro and PLpro are promising targets for antiviral drug development. In this study, we present an antiviral screening strategy involving a novel in-cell protease assay, antiviral and biochemical activity assessments, as well as structural determinations for rapid identification of protease inhibitors with low cytotoxicity. We identified eight compounds with anti-SARS-CoV-2 activity from a library of 64 repurposed drugs and modeled at protease active sites by in silico docking. We demonstrate that Sitagliptin and Daclatasvir inhibit PLpro, and MG-101, Lycorine HCl, and Nelfinavir mesylate inhibit Mpro of SARS-CoV-2. The X-ray crystal structure of Mpro in complex with MG-101 shows a covalent bond formation between the inhibitor and the active site Cys145 residue indicating its mechanism of inhibition is by blocking the substrate binding at the active site. Thus, we provide methods for rapid and effective screening and development of inhibitors for blocking virus polyprotein processing as SARS-CoV-2 antivirals. Additionally, we show that the combined inhibition of Mpro and PLpro is more effective in inhibiting SARS-CoV-2 and the delta variant.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Anoop Narayanan
- Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, The Pennsylvania State University, University Park, PA, USA
| | - Manju Narwal
- Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, The Pennsylvania State University, University Park, PA, USA
| | - Sydney A Majowicz
- Huck Institutes of the Life Sciences, The Pennsylvania State University, University Park, PA, USA
| | - Carmine Varricchio
- School of Pharmacy and Pharmaceutical Sciences, Cardiff University, King Edward VII Avenue, CF10 3NB, Cardiff, UK
| | - Shay A Toner
- Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, The Pennsylvania State University, University Park, PA, USA
| | - Carlo Ballatore
- Skaggs School of Pharmacy and Pharmaceutical Sciences, University of California, San Diego, 9500 Gilman Drive, La Jolla, CA, 92093, USA
| | - Andrea Brancale
- School of Pharmacy and Pharmaceutical Sciences, Cardiff University, King Edward VII Avenue, CF10 3NB, Cardiff, UK
| | - Katsuhiko S Murakami
- Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, The Pennsylvania State University, University Park, PA, USA
| | - Joyce Jose
- Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, The Pennsylvania State University, University Park, PA, USA.
- Huck Institutes of the Life Sciences, The Pennsylvania State University, University Park, PA, USA.
| |
Collapse
|
14
|
Structure-based inhibitor design and repurposing clinical drugs to target SARS-CoV-2 proteases. Biochem Soc Trans 2022; 50:151-165. [PMID: 35015073 DOI: 10.1042/bst20211180] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/14/2021] [Revised: 12/15/2021] [Accepted: 12/16/2021] [Indexed: 01/01/2023]
Abstract
SARS-CoV-2, the coronavirus responsible for the current COVID-19 pandemic, encodes two proteases, 3CLpro and PLpro, two of the main antiviral research targets. Here we provide an overview of the structures and functions of 3CLpro and PLpro and examine strategies of structure-based drug designing and drug repurposing against these proteases. Rational structure-based drug design enables the generation of potent and target-specific antivirals. Drug repurposing offers an attractive prospect with an accelerated turnaround. Thus far, several protease inhibitors have been identified, and some candidates are undergoing trials that may well prove to be effective antivirals against SARS-CoV-2.
Collapse
|
15
|
Protease Substrate-Independent Universal Assay for Monitoring Digestion of Native Unmodified Proteins. Int J Mol Sci 2021; 22:ijms22126362. [PMID: 34198602 PMCID: PMC8231992 DOI: 10.3390/ijms22126362] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/06/2021] [Revised: 06/08/2021] [Accepted: 06/10/2021] [Indexed: 12/11/2022] Open
Abstract
Proteases are a group of enzymes with a catalytic function to hydrolyze peptide bonds of proteins. Proteases regulate the activity, signaling mechanism, fate, and localization of many proteins, and their dysregulation is associated with various pathological conditions. Proteases have been identified as biomarkers and potential therapeutic targets for multiple diseases, such as acquired immunodeficiency syndrome, cardiovascular diseases, osteoporosis, type 2 diabetes, and cancer, where they are essential to disease progression. Thus, protease inhibitors and inhibitor-like molecules are interesting drug candidates. To study proteases and their substrates and inhibitors, simple, rapid, and sensitive protease activity assays are needed. Existing fluorescence-based assays enable protease monitoring in a high-throughput compatible microtiter plate format, but the methods often rely on either molecular labeling or synthetic protease targets that only mimic the hydrolysis site of the true target proteins. Here, we present a homogenous, label-free, and time-resolved luminescence utilizing the protein-probe method to assay proteases with native and denatured substrates at nanomolar sensitivity. The developed protein-probe method is not restricted to any single protein or protein target class, enabling digestion and substrate fragmentation studies with the natural unmodified substrate proteins. The versatility of the assay for studying protease targets was shown by monitoring the digestion of a substrate panel with different proteases. These results indicate that the protein-probe method not only monitors the protease activity and inhibition, but also studies the substrate specificity of individual proteases.
Collapse
|
16
|
Müller P, Maus H, Hammerschmidt SJ, Knaff P, Mailänder V, Schirmeister T, Kersten C. Interfering with Host Proteases in SARS-CoV-2 Entry as a Promising Therapeutic Strategy. Curr Med Chem 2021; 29:635-665. [PMID: 34042026 DOI: 10.2174/0929867328666210526111318] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/29/2020] [Revised: 02/05/2021] [Accepted: 02/06/2021] [Indexed: 01/10/2023]
Abstract
Due to its fast international spread and substantial mortality, the coronavirus disease COVID-19 evolved to a global threat. Since currently, there is no causative drug against this viral infection available, science is striving for new drugs and approaches to treat the new disease. Studies have shown that the cell entry of coronaviruses into host cells takes place through the binding of the viral spike (S) protein to cell receptors. Priming of the S protein occurs via hydrolysis by different host proteases. The inhibition of these proteases could impair the processing of the S protein, thereby affecting the interaction with the host-cell receptors and preventing virus cell entry. Hence, inhibition of these proteases could be a promising strategy for treatment against SARS-CoV-2. In this review, we discuss the current state of the art of developing inhibitors against the entry proteases furin, the transmembrane serine protease type-II (TMPRSS2), trypsin, and cathepsin L.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Patrick Müller
- Institute for Pharmaceutical and Biomedical Sciences, Johannes Gutenberg University Mainz, Staudingerweg 5, 55128 Mainz, Germany
| | - Hannah Maus
- Institute for Pharmaceutical and Biomedical Sciences, Johannes Gutenberg University Mainz, Staudingerweg 5, 55128 Mainz, Germany
| | - Stefan Josef Hammerschmidt
- Institute for Pharmaceutical and Biomedical Sciences, Johannes Gutenberg University Mainz, Staudingerweg 5, 55128 Mainz, Germany
| | - Philip Knaff
- Max Planck Institute for Polymer Research, Ackermannweg 10, 55128 Mainz, Germany
| | - Volker Mailänder
- Max Planck Institute for Polymer Research, Ackermannweg 10, 55128 Mainz, Germany
| | - Tanja Schirmeister
- Institute for Pharmaceutical and Biomedical Sciences, Johannes Gutenberg University Mainz, Staudingerweg 5, 55128 Mainz, Germany
| | - Christian Kersten
- Institute for Pharmaceutical and Biomedical Sciences, Johannes Gutenberg University Mainz, Staudingerweg 5, 55128 Mainz, Germany
| |
Collapse
|
17
|
Mengist HM, Dilnessa T, Jin T. Structural Basis of Potential Inhibitors Targeting SARS-CoV-2 Main Protease. Front Chem 2021; 9:622898. [PMID: 33889562 PMCID: PMC8056153 DOI: 10.3389/fchem.2021.622898] [Citation(s) in RCA: 173] [Impact Index Per Article: 57.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/30/2020] [Accepted: 01/04/2021] [Indexed: 12/23/2022] Open
Abstract
The Coronavirus disease-19 (COVID-19) pandemic is still devastating the world causing significant social, economic, and political chaos. Corresponding to the absence of globally approved antiviral drugs for treatment and vaccines for controlling the pandemic, the number of cases and/or mortalities are still rising. Current patient management relies on supportive treatment and the use of repurposed drugs as an indispensable option. Of a crucial role in the viral life cycle, ongoing studies are looking for potential inhibitors to the main protease (Mpro) of severe acute respiratory syndrome Coronavirus -2 (SARS-CoV-2) to tackle the pandemic. Although promising results have been achieved in searching for drugs inhibiting the Mpro, work remains to be done on designing structure-based improved drugs. This review discusses the structural basis of potential inhibitors targeting SARS-CoV-2 Mpro, identifies gaps, and provides future directions. Further, compounds with potential Mpro based antiviral activity are highlighted.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Hylemariam Mihiretie Mengist
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, The First Affiliated Hospital of USTC, Division of Life Sciences and Medicine, University of Science and Technology of China, Hefei, China
- Hefei National Laboratory for Physical Sciences at Microscale, CAS Key Laboratory of innate immunity and chronic disease, School of Basic Medical Sciences, Division of Life Sciences and Medicine, University of Science and Technology of China, Hefei, China
- Department of Medical Laboratory Science, College of Health Science, Debre Markos University, Debre Markos, Ethiopia
| | - Tebelay Dilnessa
- Department of Medical Laboratory Science, College of Health Science, Debre Markos University, Debre Markos, Ethiopia
| | - Tengchuan Jin
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, The First Affiliated Hospital of USTC, Division of Life Sciences and Medicine, University of Science and Technology of China, Hefei, China
- Hefei National Laboratory for Physical Sciences at Microscale, CAS Key Laboratory of innate immunity and chronic disease, School of Basic Medical Sciences, Division of Life Sciences and Medicine, University of Science and Technology of China, Hefei, China
- CAS Center for Excellence in Molecular Cell Science, Chinese Academy of Science, Shanghai, China
| |
Collapse
|
18
|
Bhowmik D, Sharma RD, Prakash A, Kumar D. "Identification of Nafamostat and VR23 as COVID-19 drug candidates by targeting 3CL pro and PL pro.". J Mol Struct 2021; 1233:130094. [PMID: 33612858 PMCID: PMC7884051 DOI: 10.1016/j.molstruc.2021.130094] [Citation(s) in RCA: 13] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/13/2020] [Revised: 02/04/2021] [Accepted: 02/05/2021] [Indexed: 01/08/2023]
Abstract
The sudden increase in the COVID-19 epidemic affected by novel coronavirus 2019 has jeopardized public health worldwide. Hence the necessities of a drug or therapeutic agent that heal SARS-CoV-2 infections are essential requirements. The viral genome encodes a large Polyprotein, further processed by the main protease/ 3C-like protease (3CLpro) and papain-like proteases (PLpro) into 16 nonstructural proteins to form a viral replication complex. These essential functions of 3CLpro and PLpro in virus duplication make these proteases a promising target for discovering potential therapeutic candidates and possible treatment for SARS-CoV-2 infection. This study aimed to screen a unique set of protease inhibitors library against 3CLpro and PLpro of the SARS-CoV-2. A molecular docking study was performed using PyRx to reveal the binding affinity of the selected ligands and molecular dynamic simulations were executed to assess the three-dimensional stability of protein-ligand complexes. The pharmacodynamics parameters of the inhibitors were predicted using admetSAR. The top two ligands (Nafamostat and VR23) based on docking scores were selected for further studies. Selected ligands showed excellent pharmacokinetic properties with proper absorption, bioavailability and minimal toxicity. Due to the emerging and efficiency of remdesivir and dexamethasone in healing COVID-19 patients, ADMET properties of the selected ligands were thus compared with it. MD Simulation studies up to 100 ns revealed the ligands' stability at the target proteins' binding site residues. Therefore, Nafamostat and VR23 may provide potential treatment options against SARS-CoV-2 infections by potentially inhibiting virus duplication though more research is warranted.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Deep Bhowmik
- Department of Microbiology, Assam University, Silchar-788011, Assam, India
| | - Ravi Datta Sharma
- Amity Institute of Biotechnology, Amity University Haryana, Gurgaon-122413, India
| | - Amresh Prakash
- Amity Institute of Integrative Sciences and Health, Amity University Haryana, Gurgaon-122413, India
| | - Diwakar Kumar
- Department of Microbiology, Assam University, Silchar-788011, Assam, India
| |
Collapse
|
19
|
Hucke FIL, Bugert JJ. Current and Promising Antivirals Against Chikungunya Virus. Front Public Health 2020; 8:618624. [PMID: 33384981 PMCID: PMC7769948 DOI: 10.3389/fpubh.2020.618624] [Citation(s) in RCA: 16] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/17/2020] [Accepted: 11/19/2020] [Indexed: 12/21/2022] Open
Abstract
Chikungunya virus (CHIKV) is the causative agent of chikungunya fever (CHIKF) and is categorized as a(n) (re)emerging arbovirus. CHIKV has repeatedly been responsible for outbreaks that caused serious economic and public health problems in the affected countries. To date, no vaccine or specific antiviral therapies are available. This review gives a summary on current antivirals that have been investigated as potential therapeutics against CHIKF. The mode of action as well as possible compound targets (viral and host targets) are being addressed. This review hopes to provide critical information on the in vitro efficacies of various compounds and might help researchers in their considerations for future experiments.
Collapse
|
20
|
Chhetri A, Chettri S, Rai P, Mishra DK, Sinha B, Brahman D. Synthesis, characterization and computational study on potential inhibitory action of novel azo imidazole derivatives against COVID-19 main protease (M pro: 6LU7). J Mol Struct 2020; 1225:129230. [PMID: 32963413 PMCID: PMC7499073 DOI: 10.1016/j.molstruc.2020.129230] [Citation(s) in RCA: 22] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/12/2020] [Revised: 09/08/2020] [Accepted: 09/08/2020] [Indexed: 12/19/2022]
Abstract
Six azo imidazole derivatives have been synthesized and characterized by spectroscopic and analytical tools. Inhibitory potential against main protease (6LU7) have been investigated using computational techniques. Binding energy of the ligands has found in the range −6.7 Kcal/mole to −8.1 Kcal/mole. The order of the ligands towards the protein 6LU7 are L5> L4≈L6>L1>L2>L3.
A series of six novel imidazole anchored azo-imidazole derivatives (L1-L6) have been prepared by the simple condensation reaction of azo-coupled ortho-vaniline precursor with amino functionalised imidazole derivative and the synthesized derivatives (L1-L6) have been characterized by different analytical and spectroscopic techniques. Molecular docking studies were carried out to ascertain the inhibitory action of studied ligands (L1-L6) against the Main Protease (6LU7) of novel coronavirus (COVID-19). The result of the docking of L1-L6 showed a significant inhibitory action against the Main protease (Mpro) of SARS-CoV-2 and the binding energy (ΔG) values of the ligands (L1-L6) against the protein 6LU7 have found to be -7.7 Kcal/mole (L1), -7.4 Kcal/mole (L2), -6.7 Kcal/mole (L3), -7.9 Kcal/mole (L4), -8.1 Kcal/mole (L5) and -7.9 Kcal/mole (L6). Pharmacokinetic properties (ADME) of the ligands (L1-L6) have also been studied.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Abhijit Chhetri
- Department of Microbiology, St. Joseph's College, Darjeeling-734104, India
| | - Sailesh Chettri
- Department of Chemistry, St. Joseph's College, Darjeeling-734104, India
| | - Pranesh Rai
- Department of Chemistry, University of North Bengal, Darjeeling-734013, India
| | - Dipu Kumar Mishra
- Department of Chemistry, University of North Bengal, Darjeeling-734013, India
| | - Biswajit Sinha
- Department of Chemistry, University of North Bengal, Darjeeling-734013, India
| | - Dhiraj Brahman
- Department of Chemistry, St. Joseph's College, Darjeeling-734104, India
| |
Collapse
|
21
|
Abuo-Rahma GEDA, Mohamed MFA, Ibrahim TS, Shoman ME, Samir E, Abd El-Baky RM. Potential repurposed SARS-CoV-2 (COVID-19) infection drugs. RSC Adv 2020; 10:26895-26916. [PMID: 35515773 PMCID: PMC9055522 DOI: 10.1039/d0ra05821a] [Citation(s) in RCA: 31] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/03/2020] [Accepted: 07/08/2020] [Indexed: 01/09/2023] Open
Abstract
The global outbreak of COVID-19 viral infection is associated with the absence of specific drug(s) for fighting this viral infection. About 10 million people are already infected, about 500 000 deaths all over the world to date. Great efforts have been made to find solutions for this viral infection, either vaccines, monoclonal antibodies, or small molecule drugs; this can stop the spread of infection to avoid the expected human, economic and social catastrophe associated with this infection. In the literature and during clinical trials in hospitals, several FDA approved drugs for different diseases have the potential to treat or reduce the severity of COVID-19. Repurposing of these drugs as potential agents to treat COVID-19 reduces the time and cost to find effective COVID-19 agents. This review article summarizes the present situation of transmission, pathogenesis and statistics of COVID-19 in the world. Moreover, it includes chemistry, mechanism of action at the molecular level of the possible drug molecules which are liable for redirection as potential COVID-19 therapeutic agents. This includes polymerase inhibitors, protease inhibitors, malaria drugs, lipid lowering statins, rheumatoid arthritis drugs and some miscellaneous agents. We offer research data and knowledge about the chemistry and biology of potential COVID-19 drugs for the research community in this field.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Gamal El-Din A Abuo-Rahma
- Department of Medicinal Chemistry, Faculty of Pharmacy, Minia University 61519 Minia Egypt +20 1003069431
| | - Mamdouh F A Mohamed
- Department of Pharmaceutical Chemistry, Faculty of Pharmacy, Sohag University 82524 Sohag Egypt
| | - Tarek S Ibrahim
- Department of Pharmaceutical Chemistry, Faculty of Pharmacy, King Abdulaziz University Jeddah 21589 Saudi Arabia
- Department of Pharmaceutical Organic Chemistry, Faculty of Pharmacy, Zagazig University Zagazig 44519 Egypt
| | - Mai E Shoman
- Department of Medicinal Chemistry, Faculty of Pharmacy, Minia University 61519 Minia Egypt +20 1003069431
| | - Ebtihal Samir
- Physical Chemistry, Department of Analytical Chemistry, Faculty of Pharmacy, Deraya University Minia 11566 Egypt
| | - Rehab M Abd El-Baky
- Department of Microbiology and Immunology, Faculty of Pharmacy, Minia University 61519 Minia Egypt
- Department of Microbiology and Immunology, Faculty of Pharmacy, Deraya University Minia 11566 Egypt
| |
Collapse
|
22
|
Dražić T, Kopf S, Corridan J, Leuthold MM, Bertoša B, Klein CD. Peptide-β-lactam Inhibitors of Dengue and West Nile Virus NS2B-NS3 Protease Display Two Distinct Binding Modes. J Med Chem 2019; 63:140-156. [DOI: 10.1021/acs.jmedchem.9b00759] [Citation(s) in RCA: 14] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/11/2022]
Affiliation(s)
- Tonko Dražić
- Medicinal Chemistry, Institute of Pharmacy and Molecular Biotechnology IPMB, Heidelberg University, Im Neuenheimer Feld 364, 69120 Heidelberg, Germany
| | - Sara Kopf
- Medicinal Chemistry, Institute of Pharmacy and Molecular Biotechnology IPMB, Heidelberg University, Im Neuenheimer Feld 364, 69120 Heidelberg, Germany
| | - James Corridan
- Medicinal Chemistry, Institute of Pharmacy and Molecular Biotechnology IPMB, Heidelberg University, Im Neuenheimer Feld 364, 69120 Heidelberg, Germany
| | - Mila M. Leuthold
- Medicinal Chemistry, Institute of Pharmacy and Molecular Biotechnology IPMB, Heidelberg University, Im Neuenheimer Feld 364, 69120 Heidelberg, Germany
| | - Branimir Bertoša
- Department of Chemistry, Faculty of Science, University of Zagreb, Horvatovac 102a, 10 000 Zagreb, Croatia
| | - Christian D. Klein
- Medicinal Chemistry, Institute of Pharmacy and Molecular Biotechnology IPMB, Heidelberg University, Im Neuenheimer Feld 364, 69120 Heidelberg, Germany
| |
Collapse
|