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Leitão MM, Vieira TF, Sousa SF, Borges F, Simões M, Borges A. Dual action of benzaldehydes: Inhibiting quorum sensing and enhancing antibiotic efficacy for controlling Pseudomonas aeruginosa biofilms. Microb Pathog 2024; 191:106663. [PMID: 38679246 DOI: 10.1016/j.micpath.2024.106663] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/14/2024] [Revised: 04/22/2024] [Accepted: 04/25/2024] [Indexed: 05/01/2024]
Abstract
Quorum sensing (QS) has a central role in biofilm lifestyle and antimicrobial resistance, and disrupting these signaling pathways is a promising strategy to control bacterial pathogenicity and virulence. In this study, the efficacy of three structurally related benzaldehydes (4-hydroxybenzaldehyde, 4-hydroxy-3-methoxybenzaldehyde (vanillin) and 4-hydroxy-3,5-dimethoxybenzaldehyde (syringaldehyde)) in disrupting the las and pqs systems of Pseudomonas aeruginosa was investigated using bioreporter strains and computational simulations. Additionally, these benzaldehydes were combined with tobramycin and ciprofloxacin antibiotics to evaluate their ability to increase antibiotic efficacy in preventing and eradicating P. aeruginosa biofilms. To this end, the total biomass, metabolic activity and culturability of the biofilm cells were determined. In vitro assays results indicated that the aromatic aldehydes have potential to inhibit the las and pqs systems by > 80 %. Molecular docking studies supported these findings, revealing the aldehydes binding in the same pocket as the natural ligands or receptor proteins (LasR, PQSA, PQSE, PQSR). Benzaldehydes were shown to act as virulence factor attenuators, with vanillin achieving a 48 % reduction in pyocyanin production. The benzaldehyde-tobramycin combination led not only to a 60 % reduction in biomass production but also to a 90 % reduction in the metabolic activity of established biofilms. A similar result was observed when benzaldehydes were combined with ciprofloxacin. 4-Hydroxybenzaldehyde demonstrated relevant action in increasing biofilm susceptibility to ciprofloxacin, resulting in a 65 % reduction in biomass. This study discloses, for the first time, that the benzaldehydes studied are potent QS inhibitors and also enhancers of antibiotics antibiofilm activity against P. aeruginosa.
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Affiliation(s)
- Miguel M Leitão
- LEPABE-Laboratory for Process Engineering, Environment, Biotechnology and Energy, Faculty of Engineering, University of Porto, Rua Dr. Roberto Frias, 4200-465, Porto, Portugal; ALICE-Associate Laboratory for Innovation in Chemical Engineering, Faculty of Engineering, University of Porto, Rua Dr. Roberto Frias, s/n, 4200-465, Porto, Portugal; CIQUP-IMS-Department of Chemistry and Biochemistry, Faculty of Sciences, University of Porto, Rua do Campo Alegre, 4169-007, Porto, Portugal
| | - Tatiana F Vieira
- LAQV/REQUIMTE, BioSIM-Department of Biomedicine, Faculty of Medicine, University of Porto, Rua Alameda Prof. Hernâni Monteiro, 4200-319, Porto, Portugal
| | - Sérgio F Sousa
- LAQV/REQUIMTE, BioSIM-Department of Biomedicine, Faculty of Medicine, University of Porto, Rua Alameda Prof. Hernâni Monteiro, 4200-319, Porto, Portugal
| | - Fernanda Borges
- CIQUP-IMS-Department of Chemistry and Biochemistry, Faculty of Sciences, University of Porto, Rua do Campo Alegre, 4169-007, Porto, Portugal
| | - Manuel Simões
- LEPABE-Laboratory for Process Engineering, Environment, Biotechnology and Energy, Faculty of Engineering, University of Porto, Rua Dr. Roberto Frias, 4200-465, Porto, Portugal; ALICE-Associate Laboratory for Innovation in Chemical Engineering, Faculty of Engineering, University of Porto, Rua Dr. Roberto Frias, s/n, 4200-465, Porto, Portugal; DEQ-Department of Chemical Engineering, Faculty of Engineering, University of Porto, Rua Dr. Roberto Frias, s/n, 4200-465, Porto, Portugal
| | - Anabela Borges
- LEPABE-Laboratory for Process Engineering, Environment, Biotechnology and Energy, Faculty of Engineering, University of Porto, Rua Dr. Roberto Frias, 4200-465, Porto, Portugal; ALICE-Associate Laboratory for Innovation in Chemical Engineering, Faculty of Engineering, University of Porto, Rua Dr. Roberto Frias, s/n, 4200-465, Porto, Portugal; DEQ-Department of Chemical Engineering, Faculty of Engineering, University of Porto, Rua Dr. Roberto Frias, s/n, 4200-465, Porto, Portugal.
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Sousa J, Santos-Pereira C, Gomes JS, Costa ÂMA, Santos AO, Franco-Duarte R, Linhares JMM, Sousa SF, Silvério SC, Rodrigues LR. Heterologous expression and structure prediction of a xylanase identified from a compost metagenomic library. Appl Microbiol Biotechnol 2024; 108:329. [PMID: 38727750 PMCID: PMC11087322 DOI: 10.1007/s00253-024-13169-4] [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: 01/10/2024] [Revised: 04/22/2024] [Accepted: 05/02/2024] [Indexed: 05/13/2024]
Abstract
Xylanases are key biocatalysts in the degradation of the β-1,4-glycosidic linkages in the xylan backbone of hemicellulose. These enzymes are potentially applied in a wide range of bioprocessing industries under harsh conditions. Metagenomics has emerged as powerful tools for the bioprospection and discovery of interesting bioactive molecules from extreme ecosystems with unique features, such as high temperatures. In this study, an innovative combination of function-driven screening of a compost metagenomic library and automatic extraction of halo areas with in-house MATLAB functions resulted in the identification of a promising clone with xylanase activity (LP4). The LP4 clone proved to be an effective xylanase producer under submerged fermentation conditions. Sequence and phylogenetic analyses revealed that the xylanase, Xyl4, corresponded to an endo-1,4-β-xylanase belonging to glycosyl hydrolase family 10 (GH10). When xyl4 was expressed in Escherichia coli BL21(DE3), the enzyme activity increased about 2-fold compared to the LP4 clone. To get insight on the interaction of the enzyme with the substrate and establish possible strategies to improve its activity, the structure of Xyl4 was predicted, refined, and docked with xylohexaose. Our data unveiled, for the first time, the relevance of the amino acids Glu133 and Glu238 for catalysis, and a close inspection of the catalytic site suggested that the replacement of Phe316 by a bulkier Trp may improve Xyl4 activity. Our current findings contribute to enhancing the catalytic performance of Xyl4 towards industrial applications. KEY POINTS: • A GH10 endo-1,4-β-xylanase (Xyl4) was isolated from a compost metagenomic library • MATLAB's in-house functions were developed to identify the xylanase-producing clones • Computational analysis showed that Glu133 and Glu238 are crucial residues for catalysis.
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Affiliation(s)
- Joana Sousa
- CEB - Centre of Biological Engineering, Universidade do Minho, Campus de Gualtar, 4710-057, Braga, Portugal
| | - Cátia Santos-Pereira
- CEB - Centre of Biological Engineering, Universidade do Minho, Campus de Gualtar, 4710-057, Braga, Portugal
- LABBELS - Associate Laboratory, Braga/Guimarães, Portugal
| | - Joana S Gomes
- CEB - Centre of Biological Engineering, Universidade do Minho, Campus de Gualtar, 4710-057, Braga, Portugal
| | - Ângela M A Costa
- CEB - Centre of Biological Engineering, Universidade do Minho, Campus de Gualtar, 4710-057, Braga, Portugal
| | - Andréia O Santos
- CEB - Centre of Biological Engineering, Universidade do Minho, Campus de Gualtar, 4710-057, Braga, Portugal
| | - Ricardo Franco-Duarte
- CBMA - Centre of Molecular and Environmental Biology, Department of Biology, University of Minho, Campus de Gualtar, 4710-057, Braga, Portugal
- IB-S - Institute of Science and Innovation for Bio-Sustainability, University of Minho, Campus de Gualtar, 4710-057, Braga, Portugal
| | - João M M Linhares
- Physics Center of Minho and Porto Universities (CF-UM-UP), Universidade do Minho, Campus de Gualtar, 4710-057, Braga, Portugal
| | - Sérgio F Sousa
- LAQV/REQUIMTE BioSIM - Department of Biomedicine, Faculty of Medicine, University of Porto, 4200-319, Porto, Portugal
| | - Sara C Silvério
- CEB - Centre of Biological Engineering, Universidade do Minho, Campus de Gualtar, 4710-057, Braga, Portugal.
- LABBELS - Associate Laboratory, Braga/Guimarães, Portugal.
| | - Lígia R Rodrigues
- CEB - Centre of Biological Engineering, Universidade do Minho, Campus de Gualtar, 4710-057, Braga, Portugal
- LABBELS - Associate Laboratory, Braga/Guimarães, Portugal
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Vieira TF, Leitão MM, Cerqueira NMFSA, Sousa SF, Borges A, Simões M. Montelukast and cefoperazone act as antiquorum sensing and antibiofilm agents against Pseudomonas aeruginosa. J Appl Microbiol 2024; 135:lxae088. [PMID: 38587815 DOI: 10.1093/jambio/lxae088] [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: 01/02/2024] [Revised: 03/21/2024] [Accepted: 04/03/2024] [Indexed: 04/09/2024]
Abstract
AIMS Drug repurposing is an attractive strategy to control biofilm-related infectious diseases. In this study, two drugs (montelukast and cefoperazone) with well-established therapeutic applications were tested on Pseudomonas aeruginosa quorum sensing (QS) inhibition and biofilm control. METHODS AND RESULTS The activity of montelukast and cefoperazone was evaluated for Pqs signal inhibition, pyocyanin synthesis, and prevention and eradication of Ps. aeruginosa biofilms. Cefoperazone inhibited the Pqs system by hindering the production of the autoinducer molecules 2-heptyl-4-hydroxyquinoline (HHQ) and 2-heptyl-3-hydroxy-4(1H)-quinolone (the Pseudomonas quinolone signal or PQS), corroborating in silico results. Pseudomonas aeruginosa pyocyanin production was reduced by 50%. The combination of the antibiotics cefoperazone and ciprofloxacin was synergistic for Ps. aeruginosa biofilm control. On the other hand, montelukast had no relevant effects on the inhibition of the Pqs system and against Ps. aeruginosa biofilm. CONCLUSION This study provides for the first time strong evidence that cefoperazone interacts with the Pqs system, hindering the formation of the autoinducer molecules HHQ and PQS, reducing Ps. aeruginosa pathogenicity and virulence. Cefoperazone demonstrated a potential to be used in combination with less effective antibiotics (e.g. ciprofloxacin) to potentiate the biofilm control action.
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Affiliation(s)
- Tatiana F Vieira
- Faculty of Medicine, LAQV/REQUIMTE, BioSIM, Departamento de Medicina, University of Porto, Alameda Prof. Hernâni Monteiro, 4200-319 Porto, Portugal
| | - Miguel M Leitão
- Faculty of Engineering, LEPABE Laboratory for Process Engineering, Environment, Biotechnology and Energy, University of Porto, Rua Dr Roberto Frias, s/n, 4200-465 Porto, Portugal
- Faculty of Engineering, ALiCE - Associate Laboratory in Chemical Engineering, University of Porto, Rua Dr Roberto Frias, 4200-465 Porto, Portugal
- Faculty of Sciences, CIQUP-IMS - Department of Chemistry and Biochemistry, University of Porto, Rua Campo Alegre 687, 4169-007 Porto, Portugal
| | - Nuno M F S A Cerqueira
- Faculty of Medicine, LAQV/REQUIMTE, BioSIM, Departamento de Medicina, University of Porto, Alameda Prof. Hernâni Monteiro, 4200-319 Porto, Portugal
| | - Sérgio F Sousa
- Faculty of Medicine, LAQV/REQUIMTE, BioSIM, Departamento de Medicina, University of Porto, Alameda Prof. Hernâni Monteiro, 4200-319 Porto, Portugal
| | - Anabela Borges
- Faculty of Engineering, LEPABE Laboratory for Process Engineering, Environment, Biotechnology and Energy, University of Porto, Rua Dr Roberto Frias, s/n, 4200-465 Porto, Portugal
- Faculty of Engineering, ALiCE - Associate Laboratory in Chemical Engineering, University of Porto, Rua Dr Roberto Frias, 4200-465 Porto, Portugal
| | - Manuel Simões
- Faculty of Engineering, LEPABE Laboratory for Process Engineering, Environment, Biotechnology and Energy, University of Porto, Rua Dr Roberto Frias, s/n, 4200-465 Porto, Portugal
- Faculty of Engineering, ALiCE - Associate Laboratory in Chemical Engineering, University of Porto, Rua Dr Roberto Frias, 4200-465 Porto, Portugal
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Tetteh J, Wereko Brobbey DY, Osei KJ, Ayamah A, Laryea MK, Darko G, Borquaye LS. Peptide Extract from Red Kidney Beans, Phaseolus vulgaris (Fabaceae), Shows Promising Antimicrobial, Antibiofilm, and Quorum Sensing Inhibitory Effects. Biochem Res Int 2024; 2024:4667379. [PMID: 38606058 PMCID: PMC11008967 DOI: 10.1155/2024/4667379] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/07/2023] [Revised: 03/16/2024] [Accepted: 03/26/2024] [Indexed: 04/13/2024] Open
Abstract
The rapid spread of multidrug-resistant bacteria has led to an increased risk of infectious diseases. Pseudomonas aeruginosa, in particular, poses a significant obstacle due to its propensity to rapidly acquire resistance to conventional antibiotics. This has resulted in an urgent need for the development of new classes of antibiotics that do not induce resistance. Antimicrobial peptides (AMPs) have been studied as potential small-molecule antibiotics due to their unique mode of action. In this study, peptides were extracted from the seeds of Phaseolus vulgaris (Fabaceae), and the antimicrobial activities of the extract were evaluated using microbroth dilution against five different microorganisms. The extract showed antimicrobial activity against all tested organisms with minimum inhibitory concentrations (MIC) of 2.5 mg/mL, except for Candida albicans and Pseudomonas aeruginosa, which had MICs of 1.25 mg/mL. The extract was also bacteriostatic for all tested organisms. The crude peptide extract from Phaseolus vulgaris was further studied for its antibiofilm activity against Pseudomonas aeruginosa, a common nosocomial pathogen associated with biofilm formation. The extract showed good antibiofilm activity at 1/2 MIC. The extract also inhibited the expression of pyocyanin and pyoverdine (virulence factors of P. aeruginosa whose expression is mediated by quorum sensing) by 82% and 66%, respectively. These results suggest that the peptide mix from Phaseolus vulgaris may inhibit biofilm formation and virulence factor expression by interfering with cell-to-cell communication in Pseudomonas aeruginosa. The ability of the extract to inhibit the growth and biofilm formation of all tested organisms indicates its potential as an antimicrobial agent that could be further studied for drug discovery.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jennifer Tetteh
- Department of Chemistry, Kwame Nkrumah University of Science and Technology, Kumasi, Ghana
| | | | - Kofi Junior Osei
- Department of Chemistry, Kwame Nkrumah University of Science and Technology, Kumasi, Ghana
| | - Azumah Ayamah
- Department of Crop and Soil Science, Kwame Nkrumah University of Science and Technology, Kumasi, Ghana
| | - Michael Konney Laryea
- Department of Chemistry, Kwame Nkrumah University of Science and Technology, Kumasi, Ghana
| | - Godfred Darko
- Department of Chemistry, Kwame Nkrumah University of Science and Technology, Kumasi, Ghana
| | - Lawrence Sheringham Borquaye
- Department of Chemistry, Kwame Nkrumah University of Science and Technology, Kumasi, Ghana
- Central Laboratory, Kwame Nkrumah University of Science and Technology, Kumasi, Ghana
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Lopes-Marques M, Mort M, Carneiro J, Azevedo A, Amaro AP, Cooper DN, Azevedo L. Meta-analysis of 46,000 germline de novo mutations linked to human inherited disease. Hum Genomics 2024; 18:20. [PMID: 38395944 PMCID: PMC10885371 DOI: 10.1186/s40246-024-00587-8] [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: 11/10/2023] [Accepted: 02/15/2024] [Indexed: 02/25/2024] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND De novo mutations (DNMs) are variants that occur anew in the offspring of noncarrier parents. They are not inherited from either parent but rather result from endogenous mutational processes involving errors of DNA repair/replication. These spontaneous errors play a significant role in the causation of genetic disorders, and their importance in the context of molecular diagnostic medicine has become steadily more apparent as more DNMs have been reported in the literature. In this study, we examined 46,489 disease-associated DNMs annotated by the Human Gene Mutation Database (HGMD) to ascertain their distribution across gene and disease categories. RESULTS Most disease-associated DNMs reported to date are found to be associated with developmental and psychiatric disorders, a reflection of the focus of sequencing efforts over the last decade. Of the 13,277 human genes in which DNMs have so far been found, the top-10 genes with the highest proportions of DNM relative to gene size were H3-3 A, DDX3X, CSNK2B, PURA, ZC4H2, STXBP1, SCN1A, SATB2, H3-3B and TUBA1A. The distribution of CADD and REVEL scores for both disease-associated DNMs and those mutations not reported to be de novo revealed a trend towards higher deleteriousness for DNMs, consistent with the likely lower selection pressure impacting them. This contrasts with the non-DNMs, which are presumed to have been subject to continuous negative selection over multiple generations. CONCLUSION This meta-analysis provides important information on the occurrence and distribution of disease-associated DNMs in association with heritable disease and should make a significant contribution to our understanding of this major type of mutation.
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Affiliation(s)
- Mónica Lopes-Marques
- CIIMAR-Interdisciplinary Centre of Marine and Environmental Research, University of Porto, Porto, Portugal
| | - Matthew Mort
- Institute of Medical Genetics, School of Medicine, Cardiff University, Cardiff, UK
| | - João Carneiro
- CIIMAR-Interdisciplinary Centre of Marine and Environmental Research, University of Porto, Porto, Portugal
| | - António Azevedo
- CHUdSA-Centro Hospitalar Universitário de Santo António, Porto, Portugal
- UMIB-Unit for Multidisciplinary Research in Biomedicine, ICBAS - School of Medicine and Biomedical Sciences, University of Porto, Porto, Portugal
- ITR - Laboratory for Integrative and Translational Research in Population Health, Porto, Portugal
| | - Andreia P Amaro
- UMIB-Unit for Multidisciplinary Research in Biomedicine, ICBAS - School of Medicine and Biomedical Sciences, University of Porto, Porto, Portugal
- ITR - Laboratory for Integrative and Translational Research in Population Health, Porto, Portugal
| | - David N Cooper
- Institute of Medical Genetics, School of Medicine, Cardiff University, Cardiff, UK
| | - Luísa Azevedo
- UMIB-Unit for Multidisciplinary Research in Biomedicine, ICBAS - School of Medicine and Biomedical Sciences, University of Porto, Porto, Portugal.
- ITR - Laboratory for Integrative and Translational Research in Population Health, Porto, Portugal.
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Xiao H, Li J, Yang D, Du J, Li J, Lin S, Zhou H, Sun P, Xu J. Multidimensional Criteria for Virtual Screening of PqsR Inhibitors Based on Pharmacophore, Docking, and Molecular Dynamics. Int J Mol Sci 2024; 25:1869. [PMID: 38339148 PMCID: PMC10856439 DOI: 10.3390/ijms25031869] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/13/2023] [Revised: 01/27/2024] [Accepted: 02/01/2024] [Indexed: 02/12/2024] Open
Abstract
Pseudomonas aeruginosa is a clinically challenging pathogen due to its high resistance to antibiotics. Quorum sensing inhibitors (QSIs) have been proposed as a promising strategy to overcome this resistance by interfering with the bacterial communication system. Among the potential targets of QSIs, PqsR is a key regulator of quorum sensing in Pseudomonas aeruginosa. However, the current research on PqsR inhibitors is limited by the lack of diversity in the chemical structures and the screening methods. Therefore, this study aims to develop a multidimensional screening model for PqsR inhibitors based on both ligand- and receptor-based approaches. First, a pharmacophore model was constructed from a training set of PqsR inhibitors to identify the essential features and spatial arrangement for the activity. Then, molecular docking and dynamics simulations were performed to explore the core interactions between PqsR inhibitors and their receptor. The results indicate that an effective PqsR inhibitor should possess two aromatic rings, one hydrogen bond acceptor, and two hydrophobic groups and should form strong interactions with the following four amino acid residues: TYR_258, ILE_236, LEU_208, and GLN_194. Moreover, the docking score and the binding free energy should be lower than -8 kcal/mol and -40 kcal/mol, respectively. Finally, the validity of the multidimensional screening model was confirmed by a test set of PqsR inhibitors, which showed a higher accuracy than the existing screening methods based on single characteristics. This multidimensional screening model would be a useful tool for the discovery and optimization of PqsR inhibitors in the future.
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Affiliation(s)
- Haichuan Xiao
- College of Pharmacy, Jinan University, Guangzhou 510632, China; (H.X.); (J.L.); (D.Y.); (J.D.); (J.L.); (S.L.); (H.Z.)
| | - Jiahao Li
- College of Pharmacy, Jinan University, Guangzhou 510632, China; (H.X.); (J.L.); (D.Y.); (J.D.); (J.L.); (S.L.); (H.Z.)
| | - Dongdong Yang
- College of Pharmacy, Jinan University, Guangzhou 510632, China; (H.X.); (J.L.); (D.Y.); (J.D.); (J.L.); (S.L.); (H.Z.)
| | - Jiarui Du
- College of Pharmacy, Jinan University, Guangzhou 510632, China; (H.X.); (J.L.); (D.Y.); (J.D.); (J.L.); (S.L.); (H.Z.)
| | - Jie Li
- College of Pharmacy, Jinan University, Guangzhou 510632, China; (H.X.); (J.L.); (D.Y.); (J.D.); (J.L.); (S.L.); (H.Z.)
| | - Shuqi Lin
- College of Pharmacy, Jinan University, Guangzhou 510632, China; (H.X.); (J.L.); (D.Y.); (J.D.); (J.L.); (S.L.); (H.Z.)
| | - Haibo Zhou
- College of Pharmacy, Jinan University, Guangzhou 510632, China; (H.X.); (J.L.); (D.Y.); (J.D.); (J.L.); (S.L.); (H.Z.)
- State Key Laboratory of Bioactive Molecules and Druggability Assessment, Jinan University, Guangzhou 510632, China
| | - Pinghua Sun
- College of Pharmacy, Jinan University, Guangzhou 510632, China; (H.X.); (J.L.); (D.Y.); (J.D.); (J.L.); (S.L.); (H.Z.)
- State Key Laboratory of Bioactive Molecules and Druggability Assessment, Jinan University, Guangzhou 510632, China
- Key Laboratory of Xinjiang Phytomedicine Resource and Utilization, Ministry of Education, School of Pharmacy, Shihezi University, Shihezi 832003, China
| | - Jun Xu
- College of Pharmacy, Jinan University, Guangzhou 510632, China; (H.X.); (J.L.); (D.Y.); (J.D.); (J.L.); (S.L.); (H.Z.)
- State Key Laboratory of Bioactive Molecules and Druggability Assessment, Jinan University, Guangzhou 510632, China
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Yang H, Ma R, Chen J, Xie Q, Luo W, Sun P, Liu Z, Guo J. Discovery of Melittin as Triple-Action Agent: Broad-Spectrum Antibacterial, Anti-Biofilm, and Potential Anti-Quorum Sensing Activities. Molecules 2024; 29:558. [PMID: 38338303 PMCID: PMC10856726 DOI: 10.3390/molecules29030558] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/10/2023] [Revised: 01/13/2024] [Accepted: 01/17/2024] [Indexed: 02/12/2024] Open
Abstract
The development of antibiotic-resistant microorganisms is a major global health concern. Recently, there has been an increasing interest in antimicrobial peptides as a therapeutic option. This study aimed to evaluate the triple-action (broad-spectrum antibacterial, anti-biofilm, and anti-quorum sensing activities) of melittin, a membrane-active peptide present in bee venom. The minimum inhibitory concentration and minimum bactericidal concentration of the melittin were determined using the microdilution method and agar plate counting. Growth curve analysis revealed that melittin showed a concentration-dependent antibacterial activity. Scanning electron microscope analysis revealed that melittin treatment altered the morphology. Confocal laser scanning microscope revealed that melittin increased the membrane permeability and intracellular ROS generation in bacteria, all of which contribute to bacterial cell death. In addition, the crystal violet (CV) assay was used to test the anti-biofilm activity. The CV assay demonstrated that melittin inhibited biofilm formation and eradicated mature biofilms. Biofilm formation mediated by quorum sensing (QS) plays a major role in this regard, so molecular docking and molecular dynamics analysis confirmed that melittin interacts with LasR receptors through hydrogen bonds, and further evaluates the anti-QS activity of melittin through the production of virulence factors (pyocyanin, elastase, and rhamnolipid), exopolysaccharides secretion, and bacterial motility, that may be the key to inhibiting the biofilm formation mechanism. The present findings highlight the promising role of melittin as a broad-spectrum antibacterial, anti-biofilm agent, and potential QS inhibitor, providing a new perspective and theoretical basis for the development of alternative antibiotics.
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Affiliation(s)
- Hongyan Yang
- School of Medicine, Foshan University, Foshan 528000, China (J.C.); (Q.X.)
- College of Pharmacy, Jinan University, Guangzhou 510632, China;
| | - Rong Ma
- School of Medicine, Foshan University, Foshan 528000, China (J.C.); (Q.X.)
| | - Jiarou Chen
- School of Medicine, Foshan University, Foshan 528000, China (J.C.); (Q.X.)
| | - Qian Xie
- School of Medicine, Foshan University, Foshan 528000, China (J.C.); (Q.X.)
| | - Wenhui Luo
- Guangdong Yifang Pharmaceutical Co., Ltd., Foshan 528244, China;
| | - Pinghua Sun
- College of Pharmacy, Jinan University, Guangzhou 510632, China;
| | - Zheng Liu
- School of Medicine, Foshan University, Foshan 528000, China (J.C.); (Q.X.)
| | - Jialiang Guo
- School of Medicine, Foshan University, Foshan 528000, China (J.C.); (Q.X.)
- College of Pharmacy, Jinan University, Guangzhou 510632, China;
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Baugh AC, Momany C, Neidle EL. Versatility and Complexity: Common and Uncommon Facets of LysR-Type Transcriptional Regulators. Annu Rev Microbiol 2023; 77:317-339. [PMID: 37285554 DOI: 10.1146/annurev-micro-050323-040543] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 06/09/2023]
Abstract
LysR-type transcriptional regulators (LTTRs) form one of the largest families of bacterial regulators. They are widely distributed and contribute to all aspects of metabolism and physiology. Most are homotetramers, with each subunit composed of an N-terminal DNA-binding domain followed by a long helix connecting to an effector-binding domain. LTTRs typically bind DNA in the presence or absence of a small-molecule ligand (effector). In response to cellular signals, conformational changes alter DNA interactions, contact with RNA polymerase, and sometimes contact with other proteins. Many are dual-function repressor-activators, although different modes of regulation may occur at multiple promoters. This review presents an update on the molecular basis of regulation, the complexity of regulatory schemes, and applications in biotechnology and medicine. The abundance of LTTRs reflects their versatility and importance. While a single regulatory model cannot describe all family members, a comparison of similarities and differences provides a framework for future study.
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Affiliation(s)
- Alyssa C Baugh
- Department of Microbiology, University of Georgia, Athens, Georgia, USA;
| | - Cory Momany
- Department of Pharmaceutical and Biomedical Sciences, University of Georgia, Athens, Georgia, USA
| | - Ellen L Neidle
- Department of Microbiology, University of Georgia, Athens, Georgia, USA;
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Zhou Y, Liao H, Pei L, Pu Y. Combatting persister cells: The daunting task in post-antibiotics era. CELL INSIGHT 2023; 2:100104. [PMID: 37304393 PMCID: PMC10250163 DOI: 10.1016/j.cellin.2023.100104] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/17/2023] [Revised: 03/25/2023] [Accepted: 04/21/2023] [Indexed: 06/13/2023]
Abstract
Over the years, much attention has been drawn to antibiotic resistance bacteria, but drug inefficacy caused by a subgroup of special phenotypic variants - persisters - has been largely neglected in both scientific and clinical field. Interestingly, this subgroup of phenotypic variants displayed their power of withstanding sufficient antibiotics exposure in a mechanism different from antibiotic resistance. In this review, we summarized the clinical importance of bacterial persisters, the evolutionary link between resistance, tolerance, and persistence, redundant mechanisms of persister formation as well as methods of studying persister cells. In the light of our recent findings of membrane-less organelle aggresome and its important roles in regulating bacterial dormancy depth, we propose an alternative approach for anti-persister therapy. That is, to force a persister into a deeper dormancy state to become a VBNC (viable but non-culturable) cell that is incapable of regrowth. We hope to provide the latest insights on persister studies and call upon more research interest into this field.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yidan Zhou
- Department of Clinical Laboratory, Zhongnan Hospital, Wuhan University, Wuhan, 430071, China
- The State Key Laboratory Breeding Base of Basic Science of Stomatology (Hubei- MOST) & Key Laboratory of Oral Biomedicine Ministry of Education, School & Hospital of Stomatology, Wuhan University, Wuhan, 430079, China
- Medical Research Institute, School of Medicine, Wuhan University, Wuhan, 430079, China
- Frontier Science Center for Immunology and Metabolism, Wuhan University, Wuhan, 430079, China
| | - Hebin Liao
- The State Key Laboratory Breeding Base of Basic Science of Stomatology (Hubei- MOST) & Key Laboratory of Oral Biomedicine Ministry of Education, School & Hospital of Stomatology, Wuhan University, Wuhan, 430079, China
- Medical Research Institute, School of Medicine, Wuhan University, Wuhan, 430079, China
- Frontier Science Center for Immunology and Metabolism, Wuhan University, Wuhan, 430079, China
| | - Linsen Pei
- The State Key Laboratory Breeding Base of Basic Science of Stomatology (Hubei- MOST) & Key Laboratory of Oral Biomedicine Ministry of Education, School & Hospital of Stomatology, Wuhan University, Wuhan, 430079, China
- Medical Research Institute, School of Medicine, Wuhan University, Wuhan, 430079, China
- Frontier Science Center for Immunology and Metabolism, Wuhan University, Wuhan, 430079, China
| | - Yingying Pu
- The State Key Laboratory Breeding Base of Basic Science of Stomatology (Hubei- MOST) & Key Laboratory of Oral Biomedicine Ministry of Education, School & Hospital of Stomatology, Wuhan University, Wuhan, 430079, China
- Medical Research Institute, School of Medicine, Wuhan University, Wuhan, 430079, China
- Frontier Science Center for Immunology and Metabolism, Wuhan University, Wuhan, 430079, China
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10
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Travis S, Green KD, Thamban Chandrika N, Pang AH, Frantom PA, Tsodikov OV, Garneau-Tsodikova S, Thompson MK. Identification and analysis of small molecule inhibitors of FosB from Staphylococcus aureus. RSC Med Chem 2023; 14:947-956. [PMID: 37252104 PMCID: PMC10211316 DOI: 10.1039/d3md00113j] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/10/2023] [Accepted: 04/19/2023] [Indexed: 05/31/2023] Open
Abstract
Antimicrobial resistance (AMR) poses a significant threat to human health around the world. Though bacterial pathogens can develop resistance through a variety of mechanisms, one of the most prevalent is the production of antibiotic-modifying enzymes like FosB, a Mn2+-dependent l-cysteine or bacillithiol (BSH) transferase that inactivates the antibiotic fosfomycin. FosB enzymes are found in pathogens such as Staphylococcus aureus, one of the leading pathogens in deaths associated with AMR. fosB gene knockout experiments establish FosB as an attractive drug target, showing that the minimum inhibitory concentration (MIC) of fosfomycin is greatly reduced upon removal of the enzyme. Herein, we have identified eight potential inhibitors of the FosB enzyme from S. aureus by applying high-throughput in silico screening of the ZINC15 database with structural similarity to phosphonoformate, a known FosB inhibitor. In addition, we have obtained crystal structures of FosB complexes to each compound. Furthermore, we have kinetically characterized the compounds with respect to inhibition of FosB. Finally, we have performed synergy assays to determine if any of the new compounds lower the MIC of fosfomycin in S. aureus. Our results will inform future studies on inhibitor design for the FosB enzymes.
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Affiliation(s)
- Skye Travis
- Department of Chemistry & Biochemistry, The University of Alabama Box 870336, 250 Hackberry Lane Tuscaloosa AL 35487 USA +(205) 348 8439
| | - Keith D Green
- Department of Pharmaceutical Sciences, College of Pharmacy, University of Kentucky 789 South Limestone St. Lexington KY 40536 USA
| | - Nishad Thamban Chandrika
- Department of Pharmaceutical Sciences, College of Pharmacy, University of Kentucky 789 South Limestone St. Lexington KY 40536 USA
| | - Allan H Pang
- Department of Pharmaceutical Sciences, College of Pharmacy, University of Kentucky 789 South Limestone St. Lexington KY 40536 USA
| | - Patrick A Frantom
- Department of Chemistry & Biochemistry, The University of Alabama Box 870336, 250 Hackberry Lane Tuscaloosa AL 35487 USA +(205) 348 8439
| | - Oleg V Tsodikov
- Department of Pharmaceutical Sciences, College of Pharmacy, University of Kentucky 789 South Limestone St. Lexington KY 40536 USA
| | - Sylvie Garneau-Tsodikova
- Department of Pharmaceutical Sciences, College of Pharmacy, University of Kentucky 789 South Limestone St. Lexington KY 40536 USA
| | - Matthew K Thompson
- Department of Chemistry & Biochemistry, The University of Alabama Box 870336, 250 Hackberry Lane Tuscaloosa AL 35487 USA +(205) 348 8439
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11
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Carneiro J, Magalhães RP, de la Oliva Roque VM, Simões M, Pratas D, Sousa SF. TargIDe: a machine-learning workflow for target identification of molecules with antibiofilm activity against Pseudomonas aeruginosa. J Comput Aided Mol Des 2023; 37:265-278. [PMID: 37085636 DOI: 10.1007/s10822-023-00505-5] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/10/2023] [Accepted: 04/12/2023] [Indexed: 04/23/2023]
Abstract
Bacterial biofilms are a source of infectious human diseases and are heavily linked to antibiotic resistance. Pseudomonas aeruginosa is a multidrug-resistant bacterium widely present and implicated in several hospital-acquired infections. Over the last years, the development of new drugs able to inhibit Pseudomonas aeruginosa by interfering with its ability to form biofilms has become a promising strategy in drug discovery. Identifying molecules able to interfere with biofilm formation is difficult, but further developing these molecules by rationally improving their activity is particularly challenging, as it requires knowledge of the specific protein target that is inhibited. This work describes the development of a machine learning multitechnique consensus workflow to predict the protein targets of molecules with confirmed inhibitory activity against biofilm formation by Pseudomonas aeruginosa. It uses a specialized database containing all the known targets implicated in biofilm formation by Pseudomonas aeruginosa. The experimentally confirmed inhibitors available on ChEMBL, together with chemical descriptors, were used as the input features for a combination of nine different classification models, yielding a consensus method to predict the most likely target of a ligand. The implemented algorithm is freely available at https://github.com/BioSIM-Research-Group/TargIDe under licence GNU General Public Licence (GPL) version 3 and can easily be improved as more data become available.
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Affiliation(s)
- João Carneiro
- Interdisciplinary Centre of Marine and Environmental Research, CIIMAR, University of Porto, Terminal de Cruzeiros do Porto de Leixões, Av. General Norton de Matos, s/n, Porto, 4450-208, Portugal.
| | - Rita P Magalhães
- Faculty of Medicine, Associate Laboratory i4HB-Institute for Health and Bioeconomy, University of Porto, 4200-319, Porto, Portugal
- Department of Biomedicine, Faculty of Medicine, UCIBIO-Applied Molecular Biosciences Unit, University of Porto, BioSIM, Porto, 4200-319, Portugal
| | - Victor M de la Oliva Roque
- Faculty of Medicine, Associate Laboratory i4HB-Institute for Health and Bioeconomy, University of Porto, 4200-319, Porto, Portugal
- Department of Biomedicine, Faculty of Medicine, UCIBIO-Applied Molecular Biosciences Unit, University of Porto, BioSIM, Porto, 4200-319, Portugal
| | - Manuel Simões
- Faculty of Engineering, LEPABE Laboratory for Process Engineering, Environment, Biotechnology and Energy, University of Porto, Rua Dr. Roberto Frias, s/n, Porto, 4200-465, Portugal
- Faculty of Engineering, ALiCE-Associate Laboratory in Chemical Engineering, University of Porto, Rua Dr. Roberto Frias, 4200-465, Porto, Portugal
| | - Diogo Pratas
- Institute of Electronics and Informatics Engineering of Aveiro, IEETA, University of Aveiro, Aveiro, Portugal
- Department of Electronics, Telecommunications and Informatics, DETI, University of Aveiro, Aveiro, Portugal
- Department of Virology, DoV, University of Helsinki, Helsinki, Finland
| | - Sérgio F Sousa
- Faculty of Medicine, Associate Laboratory i4HB-Institute for Health and Bioeconomy, University of Porto, 4200-319, Porto, Portugal
- Department of Biomedicine, Faculty of Medicine, UCIBIO-Applied Molecular Biosciences Unit, University of Porto, BioSIM, Porto, 4200-319, Portugal
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12
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Fernandes MJG, Pereira RB, Rodrigues ARO, Vieira TF, Fortes AG, Pereira DM, Sousa SF, Gonçalves MST, Castanheira EMS. Liposomal Formulations Loaded with a Eugenol Derivative for Application as Insecticides: Encapsulation Studies and In Silico Identification of Protein Targets. NANOMATERIALS (BASEL, SWITZERLAND) 2022; 12:3583. [PMID: 36296773 PMCID: PMC9611868 DOI: 10.3390/nano12203583] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/24/2022] [Revised: 10/08/2022] [Accepted: 10/10/2022] [Indexed: 06/16/2023]
Abstract
A recently synthesized new eugenol derivative, ethyl 4-(2-methoxy-4-(oxiran-2-ylmethyl)phenoxy)butanoate, with a high insecticidal activity against Sf9 (Spodoptera frugiperda) insect cells, was encapsulated in the liposomal formulations of egg-phosphatidylcholine/cholesterol (Egg-PC:Ch) 70:30 and 100% dioleoylphosphatidylglycerol (DOPG), aiming at the future application as insecticides. Compound-loaded DOPG liposomes have sizes of 274 ± 12 nm, while Egg-PC:Ch liposomes exhibit smaller hydrodynamic diameters (69.5 ± 7 nm), high encapsulation efficiency (88.8 ± 2.7%), higher stability, and a more efficient compound release, thus, they were chosen for assays in Sf9 insect cells. The compound elicited a loss of cell viability up to 80% after 72 h of incubation. Relevantly, nanoencapsulation maintained the toxicity of the compound toward insect cells while lowering the toxicity toward human cells, thus showing the selectivity of the system. Structure-based inverted virtual screening was used to predict the most likely targets and molecular dynamics simulations and free energy calculations were used to demonstrate that this molecule can form a stable complex with insect odorant binding proteins and/or acetylcholinesterase. The results are promising for the future application of compound-loaded nanoliposome formulations as crop insecticides.
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Affiliation(s)
- Maria José G. Fernandes
- Centre of Chemistry (CQUM), University of Minho, Campus de Gualtar, 4710-057 Braga, Portugal
| | - Renato B. Pereira
- REQUIMTE/LAQV, Laboratory of Pharmacognosy, Department of Chemistry, Faculty of Pharmacy, University of Porto, R. Jorge Viterbo Ferreira, 228, 4050-313 Porto, Portugal
| | - Ana Rita O. Rodrigues
- Physics Centre of Minho and Porto Universities (CF-UM-UP), University of Minho, Campus de Gualtar, 4710-057 Braga, Portugal
- Associate Laboratory LaPMET, University of Minho, Campus de Gualtar, 4710-057 Braga, Portugal
| | - Tatiana F. Vieira
- UCIBIO/REQUIMTE, BioSIM—Department of Medicine, Faculty of Medicine, University of Porto, Alameda Prof. Hernâni Monteiro, 4200-319 Porto, Portugal
- Associate Laboratory i4HB—Institute for Health and Bioeconomy, Faculty of Medicine, University of Porto, 4200-319 Porto, Portugal
| | - A. Gil Fortes
- Centre of Chemistry (CQUM), University of Minho, Campus de Gualtar, 4710-057 Braga, Portugal
| | - David M. Pereira
- REQUIMTE/LAQV, Laboratory of Pharmacognosy, Department of Chemistry, Faculty of Pharmacy, University of Porto, R. Jorge Viterbo Ferreira, 228, 4050-313 Porto, Portugal
| | - Sérgio F. Sousa
- UCIBIO/REQUIMTE, BioSIM—Department of Medicine, Faculty of Medicine, University of Porto, Alameda Prof. Hernâni Monteiro, 4200-319 Porto, Portugal
- Associate Laboratory i4HB—Institute for Health and Bioeconomy, Faculty of Medicine, University of Porto, 4200-319 Porto, Portugal
| | - M. Sameiro T. Gonçalves
- Centre of Chemistry (CQUM), University of Minho, Campus de Gualtar, 4710-057 Braga, Portugal
| | - Elisabete M. S. Castanheira
- Physics Centre of Minho and Porto Universities (CF-UM-UP), University of Minho, Campus de Gualtar, 4710-057 Braga, Portugal
- Associate Laboratory LaPMET, University of Minho, Campus de Gualtar, 4710-057 Braga, Portugal
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13
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The Molecular Architecture of Pseudomonas aeruginosa Quorum-Sensing Inhibitors. Mar Drugs 2022; 20:md20080488. [PMID: 36005489 PMCID: PMC9409833 DOI: 10.3390/md20080488] [Citation(s) in RCA: 18] [Impact Index Per Article: 9.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/28/2022] [Revised: 07/24/2022] [Accepted: 07/25/2022] [Indexed: 02/04/2023] Open
Abstract
The survival selection pressure caused by antibiotic-mediated bactericidal and bacteriostatic activity is one of the important inducements for bacteria to develop drug resistance. Bacteria gain drug resistance through spontaneous mutation so as to achieve the goals of survival and reproduction. Quorum sensing (QS) is an intercellular communication system based on cell density that can regulate bacterial virulence and biofilm formation. The secretion of more than 30 virulence factors of P. aeruginosa is controlled by QS, and the formation and diffusion of biofilm is an important mechanism causing the multidrug resistance of P. aeruginosa, which is also closely related to the QS system. There are three main QS systems in P. aeruginosa: las system, rhl system, and pqs system. Quorum-sensing inhibitors (QSIs) can reduce the toxicity of bacteria without affecting the growth and enhance the sensitivity of bacterial biofilms to antibiotic treatment. These characteristics make QSIs a popular topic for research and development in the field of anti-infection. This paper reviews the research progress of the P. aeruginosa quorum-sensing system and QSIs, targeting three QS systems, which will provide help for the future research and development of novel quorum-sensing inhibitors.
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14
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Damale MG, Patil R, Ansari SA, Alkahtani HM, Ahmed S, Nur-e-Alam M, Arote R, Sangshetti J. Insilico structure based drug design approach to find potential hits in ventilator-associated pneumonia caused by Pseudomonas aeruginosa. Comput Biol Med 2022; 146:105597. [DOI: 10.1016/j.compbiomed.2022.105597] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/03/2022] [Revised: 04/20/2022] [Accepted: 05/05/2022] [Indexed: 11/26/2022]
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15
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Development of Neuropeptide Y and Cell-Penetrating Peptide MAP Adsorbed onto Lipid Nanoparticle Surface. Molecules 2022; 27:molecules27092734. [PMID: 35566093 PMCID: PMC9101637 DOI: 10.3390/molecules27092734] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/15/2022] [Revised: 04/20/2022] [Accepted: 04/22/2022] [Indexed: 12/12/2022] Open
Abstract
Functionalization of nanoparticles surfaces have been widely used to improve diagnostic and therapeutic biological outcome. Several methods can be applied to modify nanoparticle surface; however, in this article we focus toward a simple and less time-consuming method. We applied an adsorption method on already formulated nanostructured lipid carriers (NLC) to functionalize these nanoparticles with three distinct peptides sequences. We selected a cell-penetrating peptide (CPP), a lysine modified model amphipathic peptide (Lys(N3)-MAP), CPP/drug complex, and the neuropeptide Y. The aim of this work is to evaluate the effect of several parameters such as peptide concentration, different types of NLC, different types of peptides, and incubation medium on the physicochemical proprieties of NLC and determine if adsorption occurs. The preliminary results from zeta potential analysis indicate some evidence that this method was successful in adsorbing three types of peptides onto NLC. Several non-covalent interactions appear to be involved in peptide adsorption with the possibility of three adsorption peptide hypothesis that may occur with NLC in solution. Moreover, and for the first time, in silico docking analysis demonstrated strong interaction between CPP MAP and NPY Y1 receptor with high score values when compared to standard antagonist and NPY.
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