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Dillemuth P, Lövdahl P, Karskela T, Ayo A, Ponkamo J, Liljenbäck H, Paunonen S, Kunnas J, Rajander J, Tynninen O, Rosenholm JM, Roivainen A, Laakkonen P, Airaksinen AJ, Li XG. Switching the Chemoselectivity in the Preparation of [ 18F]FNA- N-CooP, a Free Thiol-Containing Peptide for Targeted Positron Emission Tomography Imaging of Fatty Acid Binding Protein 3. Mol Pharm 2024; 21:4147-4156. [PMID: 39008899 DOI: 10.1021/acs.molpharmaceut.4c00546] [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] [Indexed: 07/17/2024]
Abstract
Fatty acid binding protein 3 (FABP3) is expressed both in tumor cells and in the tumor vasculature, making it a potential target for medical imaging and therapy. In this study, we aimed to radiolabel a CooP peptide with a free amino and thiol group, and evaluate the radiolabeled product [18F]FNA-N-CooP for imaging FABP3 expression in breast cancer brain metastases by positron emission tomography. [18F]FNA-N-CooP was prepared by highly chemoselective N-acylation and characterized using different chemical approaches. We validated its binding to the target using in vitro tissue section autoradiography and performed stability tests in vitro and in vivo. [18F]FNA-N-CooP was successfully synthesized in 16.8% decay-corrected radiochemical yield with high radiochemical purity (98.5%). It exhibited heterogeneous binding on brain metastasis tissue sections from a patient with breast cancer, with foci of radioactivity binding corresponding to FABP3 positivity. Furthermore, the tracer binding was reduced by 55% in the presence of nonradioactive FNA-N-CooP a blocker, indicating specific tracer binding and that FABP3 is a viable target for [18F]FNA-N-CooP. Favorably, the tracer did not bind to necrotic tumor tissue. However, [18F]FNA-N-CooP displayed limited stability both in vitro in mouse plasma or human serum and in vivo in mouse, therefore further studies are needed to improve the stability [18F]FNA-N-CooP to be used for in vivo applications.
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Affiliation(s)
- Pyry Dillemuth
- Turku PET Centre, University of Turku, Kiinamyllynkatu 4-8, Turku FI-20520, Finland
- Department of Chemistry, University of Turku, Henrikinkatu 2, Turku FI-20500, Finland
| | - Petter Lövdahl
- Turku PET Centre, University of Turku, Kiinamyllynkatu 4-8, Turku FI-20520, Finland
- Pharmaceutical Sciences Laboratory, Faculty of Science and Engineering, Åbo Akademi University, Tykistökatu 6, Turku FI-20520, Finland
| | - Tuomas Karskela
- Turku Centre for Chemical and Molecular Analytics, Åbo Akademi University and University of Turku, Henrikinkatu 2, Turku FI-20500, Finland
| | - Abiodun Ayo
- Translational Cancer Medicine Research Program, Faculty of Medicine, University of Helsinki, Haartmaninkatu 4, Helsinki FI-00290, Finland
| | - Jesse Ponkamo
- Turku PET Centre, University of Turku, Kiinamyllynkatu 4-8, Turku FI-20520, Finland
- Department of Chemistry, University of Turku, Henrikinkatu 2, Turku FI-20500, Finland
| | - Heidi Liljenbäck
- Turku PET Centre, University of Turku, Kiinamyllynkatu 4-8, Turku FI-20520, Finland
- Turku Center for Disease Modeling, University of Turku, Kiinamyllynkatu 10, Turku FI-20520, Finland
| | - Sami Paunonen
- Turku PET Centre, University of Turku, Kiinamyllynkatu 4-8, Turku FI-20520, Finland
- Department of Chemistry, University of Turku, Henrikinkatu 2, Turku FI-20500, Finland
| | - Jonne Kunnas
- Turku PET Centre, University of Turku, Kiinamyllynkatu 4-8, Turku FI-20520, Finland
- Pharmaceutical Sciences Laboratory, Faculty of Science and Engineering, Åbo Akademi University, Tykistökatu 6, Turku FI-20520, Finland
| | - Johan Rajander
- Turku PET Centre, University of Turku, Kiinamyllynkatu 4-8, Turku FI-20520, Finland
- Accelerator Laboratory, Åbo Akademi University, Kiinamyllynkatu 4-8, Turku FI-20520, Finland
| | - Olli Tynninen
- Department of Pathology, Helsinki University Hospital and University of Helsinki, Haartmaninkatu 4, Helsinki FI-00290, Finland
| | - Jessica M Rosenholm
- Pharmaceutical Sciences Laboratory, Faculty of Science and Engineering, Åbo Akademi University, Tykistökatu 6, Turku FI-20520, Finland
| | - Anne Roivainen
- Turku PET Centre, University of Turku, Kiinamyllynkatu 4-8, Turku FI-20520, Finland
- Turku Center for Disease Modeling, University of Turku, Kiinamyllynkatu 10, Turku FI-20520, Finland
- InFLAMES Research Flagship, University of Turku, Tykistökatu 6, Turku FI-20520, Finland
| | - Pirjo Laakkonen
- Translational Cancer Medicine Research Program, Faculty of Medicine, University of Helsinki, Haartmaninkatu 4, Helsinki FI-00290, Finland
- Laboratory Animal Centre, HiLIFE University of Helsinki, Haartmaninkatu 4, Helsinki FI-00290, Finland
- iCAN Flagship Program, University of Helsinki, Haartmaninkatu 4, Helsinki FI-00290, Finland
| | - Anu J Airaksinen
- Turku PET Centre, University of Turku, Kiinamyllynkatu 4-8, Turku FI-20520, Finland
- Department of Chemistry, University of Turku, Henrikinkatu 2, Turku FI-20500, Finland
| | - Xiang-Guo Li
- Turku PET Centre, University of Turku, Kiinamyllynkatu 4-8, Turku FI-20520, Finland
- Department of Chemistry, University of Turku, Henrikinkatu 2, Turku FI-20500, Finland
- InFLAMES Research Flagship, University of Turku, Tykistökatu 6, Turku FI-20520, Finland
- Turku PET Centre, Turku University Hospital, Kiinamyllynkatu 4-8, Turku FI-20520, Finland
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Cimini M, Hansmann UHE, Gonzalez C, Chesney AD, Truongcao MM, Gao E, Wang T, Roy R, Forte E, Mallaredy V, Thej C, Magadum A, Joladarashi D, Benedict C, Koch WJ, Tükel Ç, Kishore R. Podoplanin Positive Cell-derived Extracellular Vesicles Contribute to Cardiac Amyloidosis After Myocardial Infarction. BIORXIV : THE PREPRINT SERVER FOR BIOLOGY 2024:2024.06.28.601297. [PMID: 39005419 PMCID: PMC11244852 DOI: 10.1101/2024.06.28.601297] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 07/16/2024]
Abstract
Background Amyloidosis is a major long-term complication of chronic disease; however, whether it represents one of the complications of post-myocardial infarction (MI) is yet to be fully understood. Methods Using wild-type and knocked-out MI mouse models and characterizing in vitro the exosomal communication between bone marrow-derived macrophages and activated mesenchymal stromal cells (MSC) isolated after MI, we investigated the mechanism behind Serum Amyloid A 3 (SAA3) protein overproduction in injured hearts. Results Here, we show that amyloidosis occurs after MI and that amyloid fibers are composed of macrophage-derived SAA3 monomers. SAA3 overproduction in macrophages is triggered by exosomal communication from a subset of activated MSC, which, in response to MI, acquire the expression of a platelet aggregation-inducing type I transmembrane glycoprotein named Podoplanin (PDPN). Cardiac MSC PDPN+ communicate with and activate macrophages through their extracellular vesicles or exosomes. Specifically, MSC PDPN+ derived exosomes (MSC PDPN+ Exosomes) are enriched in SAA3 and exosomal SAA3 protein engages with Toll-like receptor 2 (TRL2) on macrophages, triggering an overproduction and impaired clearance of SAA3 proteins, resulting in aggregation of SAA3 monomers as rigid amyloid deposits in the extracellular space. The onset of amyloid fibers deposition alongside extra-cellular-matrix (ECM) proteins in the ischemic heart exacerbates the rigidity and stiffness of the scar, hindering the contractility of viable myocardium and overall impairing organ function. Using SAA3 and TLR2 deficient mouse models, we show that SAA3 delivered by MSC PDPN+ exosomes promotes post-MI amyloidosis. Inhibition of SAA3 aggregation via administration of a retro-inverso D-peptide, specifically designed to bind SAA3 monomers, prevents the deposition of SAA3 amyloid fibrils, positively modulates the scar formation, and improves heart function post-MI. Conclusion Overall, our findings provide mechanistic insights into post-MI amyloidosis and suggest that SAA3 may be an attractive target for effective scar reversal after ischemic injury and a potential target in multiple diseases characterized by a similar pattern of inflammation and amyloid deposition. NOVELTY AND SIGNIFICANCE What is known? Accumulation of rigid amyloid structures in the left ventricular wall impairs ventricle contractility.After myocardial infarction cardiac Mesenchymal Stromal Cells (MSC) acquire Podoplanin (PDPN) to better interact with immune cells.Amyloid structures can accumulate in the heart after chronic inflammatory conditions. What information does this article contribute? Whether accumulation of cumbersome amyloid structures in the ischemic scar impairs left ventricle contractility, and scar reversal after myocardial infarction (MI) has never been investigated.The pathophysiological relevance of PDPN acquirement by MSC and the functional role of their secreted exosomes in the context of post-MI cardiac remodeling has not been investigated.Amyloid structures are present in the scar after ischemia and are composed of macrophage-derived Serum Amyloid A (SAA) 3 monomers, although mechanisms of SAA3 overproduction is not established. SUMMARY OF NOVELTY AND SIGNIFICANCE Here, we report that amyloidosis, a secondary phenomenon of an already preexisting and prolonged chronic inflammatory condition, occurs after MI and that amyloid structures are composed of macrophage-derived SAA3 monomers. Frequently studied cardiac amyloidosis are caused by aggregation of immunoglobulin light chains, transthyretin, fibrinogen, and apolipoprotein in a healthy heart as a consequence of systemic chronic inflammation leading to congestive heart failure with various types of arrhythmias and tissue stiffness. Although chronic MI is considered a systemic inflammatory condition, studies regarding the possible accumulation of amyloidogenic proteins after MI and the mechanisms involved in that process are yet to be reported. Here, we show that SAA3 overproduction in macrophages is triggered in a Toll-like Receptor 2 (TLR2)-p38MAP Kinase-dependent manner by exosomal communication from a subset of activated MSC, which, in response to MI, express a platelet aggregation-inducing type I transmembrane glycoprotein named Podoplanin. We provide the full mechanism of this phenomenon in murine models and confirm SAA3 amyloidosis in failing human heart samples. Moreover, we developed a retro-inverso D-peptide therapeutic approach, "DRI-R5S," specifically designed to bind SAA3 monomers and prevent post-MI aggregation and deposition of SAA3 amyloid fibrils without interfering with the innate immune response.
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Behzadipour Y, Hemmati S. Covalent conjugation and non-covalent complexation strategies for intracellular delivery of proteins using cell-penetrating peptides. Biomed Pharmacother 2024; 176:116910. [PMID: 38852512 DOI: 10.1016/j.biopha.2024.116910] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/03/2024] [Revised: 06/03/2024] [Accepted: 06/06/2024] [Indexed: 06/11/2024] Open
Abstract
Therapeutic proteins provided new opportunities for patients and high sales volumes. However, they are formulated for extracellular targets. The lipophilic barrier of the plasma membrane renders the vast array of intracellular targets out of reach. Peptide-based delivery systems, namely cell-penetrating peptides (CPPs), have few safety concerns, and low immunogenicity, with control over administered doses. This study investigates CPP-based protein delivery systems by classifying them into CPP-protein "covalent conjugation" and CPP: protein "non-covalent complexation" categories. Covalent conjugates ensure the proximity of the CPP to the cargo, which can improve cellular uptake and endosomal escape. We will discuss various aspects of covalent conjugates through non-cleavable (stable) or cleavable bonds. Non-cleavable CPP-protein conjugates are produced by recombinant DNA technology to express the complete fusion protein in a host cell or by chemical ligation of CPP and protein, which ensures stability during the delivery process. CPP-protein cleavable bonds are classified into pH-sensitive and redox-sensitive bonds, enzyme-cleavable bonds, and physical stimuli cleavable linkers (light radiation, ultrasonic waves, and thermo-responsive). We have highlighted the key characteristics of non-covalent complexes through electrostatic and hydrophobic interactions to preserve the conformational integrity of the CPP and cargo. CPP-mediated protein delivery by non-covalent complexation, such as zippers, CPP adaptor methods, and avidin-biotin technology, are featured. Conclusively, non-covalent complexation methods are appropriate when a high number of CPP or protein samples are to be screened. In contrast, when the high biological activity of the protein is critical in the intracellular compartment, conjugation protocols are preferred.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yasaman Behzadipour
- Student Research Committee, Shiraz University of Medical Sciences, Shiraz, Islamic Republic of Iran; Department of Pharmaceutical Biotechnology, School of Pharmacy, Shiraz University of Medical Sciences, Shiraz, Islamic Republic of Iran
| | - Shiva Hemmati
- Department of Pharmaceutical Biotechnology, School of Pharmacy, Shiraz University of Medical Sciences, Shiraz, Islamic Republic of Iran; Biotechnology Research Center, Shiraz University of Medical Sciences, Shiraz, Islamic Republic of Iran.
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Megaw J, Skvortsov T, Gori G, Dabai AI, Gilmore BF, Allen CCR. A novel bioinformatic method for the identification of antimicrobial peptides in metagenomes. J Appl Microbiol 2024; 135:lxae045. [PMID: 38383848 DOI: 10.1093/jambio/lxae045] [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: 11/13/2023] [Revised: 01/16/2024] [Accepted: 02/20/2024] [Indexed: 02/23/2024]
Abstract
AIMS This study aimed to develop a new bioinformatic approach for the identification of novel antimicrobial peptides (AMPs), which did not depend on sequence similarity to known AMPs held within databases, but on structural mimicry of another antimicrobial compound, in this case an ultrashort, synthetic, cationic lipopeptide (C12-OOWW-NH2). METHODS AND RESULTS When applied to a collection of metagenomic datasets, our outlined bioinformatic method successfully identified several short (8-10aa) functional AMPs, the activity of which was verified via disk diffusion and minimum inhibitory concentration assays against a panel of 12 bacterial strains. Some peptides had activity comparable to, or in some cases, greater than, those from published studies that identified AMPs using more conventional methods. We also explored the effects of modifications, including extension of the peptides, observing an activity peak at 9-12aa. Additionally, the inclusion of a C-terminal amide enhanced activity in most cases. Our most promising candidate (named PB2-10aa-NH2) was thermally stable, lipid-soluble, and possessed synergistic activity with ethanol but not with a conventional antibiotic (streptomycin). CONCLUSIONS While several bioinformatic methods exist to predict AMPs, the approach outlined here is much simpler and can be used to quickly scan huge datasets. Searching for peptide sequences bearing structural similarity to other antimicrobial compounds may present a further opportunity to identify novel AMPs with clinical relevance, and provide a meaningful contribution to the pressing global issue of AMR.
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Affiliation(s)
- Julianne Megaw
- School of Biological Sciences, Queen's University Belfast, 19 Chlorine Gardens, Belfast BT9 5DL, United Kingdom
| | - Timofey Skvortsov
- School of Pharmacy, Queen's University Belfast, Medical Biology Centre, 97 Lisburn Road, Belfast BT9 7BL, United Kingdom
| | - Giulia Gori
- Department of Molecular and Developmental Medicine, University of Siena, 53100 Siena, Italy
| | - Aliyu I Dabai
- School of Biological Sciences, Queen's University Belfast, 19 Chlorine Gardens, Belfast BT9 5DL, United Kingdom
| | - Brendan F Gilmore
- School of Pharmacy, Queen's University Belfast, Medical Biology Centre, 97 Lisburn Road, Belfast BT9 7BL, United Kingdom
| | - Christopher C R Allen
- School of Biological Sciences, Queen's University Belfast, 19 Chlorine Gardens, Belfast BT9 5DL, United Kingdom
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5
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Guerin N, Childs H, Zhou P, Donald BR. DexDesign: A new OSPREY-based algorithm for designing de novo D-peptide inhibitors. BIORXIV : THE PREPRINT SERVER FOR BIOLOGY 2024:2024.02.12.579944. [PMID: 38405797 PMCID: PMC10888900 DOI: 10.1101/2024.02.12.579944] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 02/27/2024]
Abstract
With over 270 unique occurrences in the human genome, peptide-recognizing PDZ domains play a central role in modulating polarization, signaling, and trafficking pathways. Mutations in PDZ domains lead to diseases such as cancer and cystic fibrosis, making PDZ domains attractive targets for therapeutic intervention. D-peptide inhibitors offer unique advantages as therapeutics, including increased metabolic stability and low immunogenicity. Here, we introduce DexDesign, a novel OSPREY-based algorithm for computationally designing de novo D-peptide inhibitors. DexDesign leverages three novel techniques that are broadly applicable to computational protein design: the Minimum Flexible Set, K*-based Mutational Scan, and Inverse Alanine Scan, which enable exponential reductions in the size of the peptide sequence search space. We apply these techniques and DexDesign to generate novel D-peptide inhibitors of two biomedically important PDZ domain targets: CAL and MAST2. We introduce a new framework for analyzing de novo peptides-evaluation along a replication/restitution axis-and apply it to the DexDesign-generated D-peptides. Notably, the peptides we generated are predicted to bind their targets tighter than their targets' endogenous ligands, validating the peptides' potential as lead therapeutic candidates. We provide an implementation of DexDesign in the free and open source computational protein design software OSPREY.
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6
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Guerin N, Childs H, Zhou P, Donald BR. DexDesign: an OSPREY-based algorithm for designing de novo D-peptide inhibitors. Protein Eng Des Sel 2024; 37:gzae007. [PMID: 38757573 PMCID: PMC11099876 DOI: 10.1093/protein/gzae007] [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: 09/03/2023] [Revised: 04/17/2024] [Indexed: 05/18/2024] Open
Abstract
With over 270 unique occurrences in the human genome, peptide-recognizing PDZ domains play a central role in modulating polarization, signaling, and trafficking pathways. Mutations in PDZ domains lead to diseases such as cancer and cystic fibrosis, making PDZ domains attractive targets for therapeutic intervention. D-peptide inhibitors offer unique advantages as therapeutics, including increased metabolic stability and low immunogenicity. Here, we introduce DexDesign, a novel OSPREY-based algorithm for computationally designing de novo D-peptide inhibitors. DexDesign leverages three novel techniques that are broadly applicable to computational protein design: the Minimum Flexible Set, K*-based Mutational Scan, and Inverse Alanine Scan. We apply these techniques and DexDesign to generate novel D-peptide inhibitors of two biomedically important PDZ domain targets: CAL and MAST2. We introduce a framework for analyzing de novo peptides-evaluation along a replication/restitution axis-and apply it to the DexDesign-generated D-peptides. Notably, the peptides we generated are predicted to bind their targets tighter than their targets' endogenous ligands, validating the peptides' potential as lead inhibitors. We also provide an implementation of DexDesign in the free and open source computational protein design software OSPREY.
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Affiliation(s)
- Nathan Guerin
- Department of Computer Science, Duke University, 308 Research Drive, Durham, NC 27708, United States
| | - Henry Childs
- Department of Chemistry, Duke University, 124 Science Drive, Durham, NC 27708, United States
| | - Pei Zhou
- Department of Biochemistry, Duke University School of Medicine, 307 Research Drive, Durham, NC 22710, United States
| | - Bruce R Donald
- Department of Computer Science, Duke University, 308 Research Drive, Durham, NC 27708, United States
- Department of Chemistry, Duke University, 124 Science Drive, Durham, NC 27708, United States
- Department of Biochemistry, Duke University School of Medicine, 307 Research Drive, Durham, NC 22710, United States
- Department of Mathematics, Duke University, 120 Science Drive, Durham, NC 27708, United States
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Jiang Z, Guo Y, Shi J, Zhang S, Zhang L, Wang Y, Li G, Bai R, Zhao H, Sun J. Cell-permeable PI3 kinase competitive peptide inhibits KIT mutant mediated tumorigenesis of gastrointestinal stromal tumor (GIST). Mol Biol Rep 2024; 51:98. [PMID: 38206538 DOI: 10.1007/s11033-023-09120-x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/25/2023] [Accepted: 12/06/2023] [Indexed: 01/12/2024]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Mutations in the receptor tyrosine kinase KIT are the main cause of gastrointestinal stromal tumor (GIST), and the KIT mutants mediated PI3 kinase activation plays a key role in the tumorigenesis of GIST. In this study, we aimed to block PI3 kinase activation by cell-permeable peptide and investigate its possible application in the treatment of GIST. METHODS AND RESULTS We designed cell-permeable peptides based on the binding domain of PI3 kinase subunit p85 to KIT or PI3 kinase subunit p110, respectively, in order to compete for the binding between p85 and KIT or p110 and therefore inhibit the activation of PI3 kinases mediated by KIT. The results showed that the peptide can penetrate the cells, and inhibit the activation of PI3 kinases, leading to reduced cell survival and cell proliferation mediated by KIT mutants in vitro. Treatment of mice carrying germline KIT/V558A mutation, which can develop GIST, with the peptide that can compete for the binding between p85 and p110, led to reduced tumorigenesis of GIST. The peptide can further enhance the inhibition of the tumor growth by imatinib which is used as the first line targeted therapy of GIST. CONCLUSIONS Our results showed that cell-permeable PI3 kinase competitive peptide can inhibit KIT-mediated PI3 kinase activation and tumorigenesis of GIST, providing a rationale to further test the peptide in the treatment of GIST and even other tumors with over-activation of PI3 kinases.
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Affiliation(s)
- Zongying Jiang
- NHC Key Laboratory of Metabolic Cardiovascular Diseases Research, Science and Technology Center, School of Basic Medical Sciences, Ningxia Medical University, Yinchuan, China
| | - Yue Guo
- Key Laboratory for Regenerative Medicine, Ministry of Education, School of Biomedical Sciences, Faculty of Medicine, The Chinese University of Hong Kong, Hong Kong SAR, China
| | - Jun Shi
- The Second Affiliated Hospital of Ningxia Medical University, Yinchuan, China
| | - Shaoting Zhang
- NHC Key Laboratory of Metabolic Cardiovascular Diseases Research, Science and Technology Center, School of Basic Medical Sciences, Ningxia Medical University, Yinchuan, China
| | - Liangying Zhang
- NHC Key Laboratory of Metabolic Cardiovascular Diseases Research, Science and Technology Center, School of Basic Medical Sciences, Ningxia Medical University, Yinchuan, China
| | - Yapeng Wang
- School of Nursing, Ningxia Medical University, Yinchuan, China
| | - Guofu Li
- Department of Pathology, The General Hospital of Ningxia Medical University, Yinchuan, China
| | - Ru Bai
- NHC Key Laboratory of Metabolic Cardiovascular Diseases Research, Science and Technology Center, School of Basic Medical Sciences, Ningxia Medical University, Yinchuan, China
| | - Hui Zhao
- Key Laboratory for Regenerative Medicine, Ministry of Education, School of Biomedical Sciences, Faculty of Medicine, The Chinese University of Hong Kong, Hong Kong SAR, China.
| | - Jianmin Sun
- NHC Key Laboratory of Metabolic Cardiovascular Diseases Research, Science and Technology Center, School of Basic Medical Sciences, Ningxia Medical University, Yinchuan, China.
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Hansen PR, Oddo A. Fmoc Solid-Phase Peptide Synthesis. Methods Mol Biol 2024; 2821:33-55. [PMID: 38997478 DOI: 10.1007/978-1-0716-3914-6_3] [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] [Indexed: 07/14/2024]
Abstract
Synthetic peptides are important as drugs and in research. Currently, the method of choice for producing these compounds is solid-phase peptide synthesis. Here, we describe the scope and limitations of Fmoc solid-phase peptide synthesis. Furthermore, we provide a detailed protocol for Fmoc peptide synthesis.
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Affiliation(s)
- Paul Robert Hansen
- Department of Drug Design and Pharmacology, Faculty of Health and Medical Sciences, University of Copenhagen, Copenhagen, Denmark.
| | - Alberto Oddo
- Department of Drug Design and Pharmacology, Faculty of Health and Medical Sciences, University of Copenhagen, Copenhagen, Denmark
- , Måløv, Denmark
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9
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Macias ALD, Alecrim LC, Almeida FCL, Giordano RJ. Understanding the Structural Requirements of Peptide-Protein Interaction and Applications for Peptidomimetic Development. Methods Mol Biol 2024; 2793:65-82. [PMID: 38526724 DOI: 10.1007/978-1-0716-3798-2_5] [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] [Indexed: 03/27/2024]
Abstract
Protein-protein interaction is at the heart of most biological processes, and small peptides that bind to protein binding sites are resourceful tools to explore and understand the structural requirements for these interactions. In that sense, phage display is a well-suited technology to study protein-protein interactions, as it allows for unbiased screening of billions of peptides in search for those that interact with a protein binding domain. Here, we will illustrate how two distinct but complementary approaches, phage display and nuclear magnetic resonance (NMR), can be utilized to unveil structural details of peptide-protein interaction. Finally, knowledge derived from phage mutagenesis and NMR studies can be streamlined for quick peptidomimetic design and synthesis using the retroinversion approach to validate using in vitro and in vivo assays the therapeutic potential of peptides identified by phage display.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Lilian Costa Alecrim
- Biochemistry Department, Institute of Chemistry, University of Sao Paulo, Sao Paulo, Brazil
| | - Fabio C L Almeida
- Institute of Medical Biochemistry, Federal University of Rio de Janeiro, Rio de Janeiro, Brazil
| | - Ricardo Jose Giordano
- Biochemistry Department, Institute of Chemistry, University of Sao Paulo, Sao Paulo, Brazil.
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10
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Hitotsuyanagi Y. [Syntheses and Structure-Activity Relationship Studies of Antitumor Bicyclic Hexapeptide RA-VII Analogues]. YAKUGAKU ZASSHI 2024; 144:553-565. [PMID: 38692932 DOI: 10.1248/yakushi.23-00208] [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] [Indexed: 05/03/2024]
Abstract
A series of antitumor bicyclic hexapeptide RA-VII analogues modified at residue 2, 3, or 6 were prepared by the chemical transformation of the hydroxy, methoxy, or carboxy groups or the aromatic rings of natural peptides RA-II, III, V, VII, and X. Analogues with modified side chains or peptide backbones, which cannot be prepared by the chemical transformation of their natural peptides, and newly isolated peptides from Rubia cordifolia roots were synthesized by using protected cycloisodityrosines prepared by the degradation of bis(thioamide) obtained from RA-VII or the diphenyl ether formation of boronodipeptide under the modified Chan-Lam coupling reaction conditions. Studies of the conformational features of the analogues and the newly isolated peptides and their relationships with cytotoxic activities against the HCT-116, HL-60, KATO-III, KB, L1210, MCF-7, and P-388 cell lines revealed the following: the methoxy group at residue 3 is essential for the potent cytotoxic activity; the methyl group at Ala-2 and Ala-4 but not at D-Ala-1 is required to establish the bioactive conformation; the N-methyl group at Tyr-5 is necessary for the peptides to adopt the active conformation preferentially; and the orientation of Tyr-5 and/or Tyr-6 phenyl rings has a significant effect on the cytotoxic activity.
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Li C, Jin K. Chemical Strategies towards the Development of Effective Anticancer Peptides. Curr Med Chem 2024; 31:1839-1873. [PMID: 37170992 DOI: 10.2174/0929867330666230426111157] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/01/2022] [Revised: 01/28/2023] [Accepted: 02/24/2023] [Indexed: 05/13/2023]
Abstract
Cancer is increasingly recognized as one of the primary causes of death and has become a multifaceted global health issue. Modern medical science has made significant advancements in the diagnosis and therapy of cancer over the past decade. The detrimental side effects, lack of efficacy, and multidrug resistance of conventional cancer therapies have created an urgent need for novel anticancer therapeutics or treatments with low cytotoxicity and drug resistance. The pharmaceutical groups have recognized the crucial role that peptide therapeutic agents can play in addressing unsatisfied healthcare demands and how these become great supplements or even preferable alternatives to biological therapies and small molecules. Anticancer peptides, as a vibrant therapeutic strategy against various cancer cells, have demonstrated incredible anticancer potential due to high specificity and selectivity, low toxicity, and the ability to target the surface of traditional "undruggable" proteins. This review will provide the research progression of anticancer peptides, mainly focusing on the discovery and modifications along with the optimization and application of these peptides in clinical practice.
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Affiliation(s)
- Cuicui Li
- Key Laboratory of Chemical Biology (Ministry of Education), Department of Medicinal Chemistry, School of Pharmacy, Cheeloo College of Medicine, Shandong University, Jinan, Shandong, 250012, China
| | - Kang Jin
- Key Laboratory of Chemical Biology (Ministry of Education), Department of Medicinal Chemistry, School of Pharmacy, Cheeloo College of Medicine, Shandong University, Jinan, Shandong, 250012, China
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12
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Zannella C, Chianese A, Monti A, Giugliano R, Morone MV, Secci F, Sanna G, Manzin A, De Filippis A, Doti N, Galdiero M. SARS-CoV-2 Fusion Peptide Conjugated to a Tetravalent Dendrimer Selectively Inhibits Viral Infection. Pharmaceutics 2023; 15:2791. [PMID: 38140131 PMCID: PMC10748278 DOI: 10.3390/pharmaceutics15122791] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/10/2023] [Revised: 12/13/2023] [Accepted: 12/14/2023] [Indexed: 12/24/2023] Open
Abstract
Fusion is a key event for enveloped viruses, through which viral and cell membranes come into close contact. This event is mediated by viral fusion proteins, which are divided into three structural and functional classes. The severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2 (SARS-CoV-2) spike protein belongs to class I fusion proteins, characterized by a trimer of helical hairpins and an internal fusion peptide (FP), which is exposed once fusion occurs. Many efforts have been directed at finding antivirals capable of interfering with the fusion mechanism, mainly by designing peptides on the two heptad-repeat regions present in class I viral fusion proteins. Here, we aimed to evaluate the anti-SARS-CoV-2 activity of the FP sequence conjugated to a tetravalent dendrimer through a classical organic nucleophilic substitution reaction (SN2) using a synthetic bromoacetylated peptide mimicking the FP and a branched scaffold of poly-L-Lysine functionalized with cysteine residues. We found that the FP peptide conjugated to the dendrimer, unlike the monomeric FP sequence, has virucidal activity by impairing the attachment of SARS-CoV-2 to cells. Furthermore, we found that the peptide dendrimer does not have the same effects on other coronaviruses, demonstrating that it is selective against SARS-CoV-2.
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Affiliation(s)
- Carla Zannella
- Department of Experimental Medicine, University of Campania “Luigi Vanvitelli”, 80138 Naples, Italy; (C.Z.); (A.C.); (R.G.); (M.V.M.); (A.D.F.)
| | - Annalisa Chianese
- Department of Experimental Medicine, University of Campania “Luigi Vanvitelli”, 80138 Naples, Italy; (C.Z.); (A.C.); (R.G.); (M.V.M.); (A.D.F.)
| | - Alessandra Monti
- Institute of Biostructures and Bioimaging (IBB), National Research Council (CNR), 80131 Naples, Italy; (A.M.); (N.D.)
| | - Rosa Giugliano
- Department of Experimental Medicine, University of Campania “Luigi Vanvitelli”, 80138 Naples, Italy; (C.Z.); (A.C.); (R.G.); (M.V.M.); (A.D.F.)
| | - Maria Vittoria Morone
- Department of Experimental Medicine, University of Campania “Luigi Vanvitelli”, 80138 Naples, Italy; (C.Z.); (A.C.); (R.G.); (M.V.M.); (A.D.F.)
| | - Francesco Secci
- Department of Chemical and Geological Sciences, University of Cagliari, University Campus, 09042 Cagliari, Italy;
| | - Giuseppina Sanna
- Department of Biomedical Sciences, University of Cagliari, University Campus, 09042 Cagliari, Italy; (G.S.); (A.M.)
| | - Aldo Manzin
- Department of Biomedical Sciences, University of Cagliari, University Campus, 09042 Cagliari, Italy; (G.S.); (A.M.)
| | - Anna De Filippis
- Department of Experimental Medicine, University of Campania “Luigi Vanvitelli”, 80138 Naples, Italy; (C.Z.); (A.C.); (R.G.); (M.V.M.); (A.D.F.)
| | - Nunzianna Doti
- Institute of Biostructures and Bioimaging (IBB), National Research Council (CNR), 80131 Naples, Italy; (A.M.); (N.D.)
| | - Massimiliano Galdiero
- Department of Experimental Medicine, University of Campania “Luigi Vanvitelli”, 80138 Naples, Italy; (C.Z.); (A.C.); (R.G.); (M.V.M.); (A.D.F.)
- UOC of Virology and Microbiology, University Hospital of Campania “Luigi Vanvitelli”, 80138 Naples, Italy
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13
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Kulhankova K, Traore S, Cheng X, Benk-Fortin H, Hallée S, Harvey M, Roberge J, Couture F, Kohli S, Gross TJ, Meyerholz DK, Rettig GR, Thommandru B, Kurgan G, Wohlford-Lenane C, Hartigan-O'Connor DJ, Yates BP, Newby GA, Liu DR, Tarantal AF, Guay D, McCray PB. Shuttle peptide delivers base editor RNPs to rhesus monkey airway epithelial cells in vivo. Nat Commun 2023; 14:8051. [PMID: 38052872 PMCID: PMC10698009 DOI: 10.1038/s41467-023-43904-w] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/01/2023] [Accepted: 11/23/2023] [Indexed: 12/07/2023] Open
Abstract
Gene editing strategies for cystic fibrosis are challenged by the complex barrier properties of airway epithelia. We previously reported that the amphiphilic S10 shuttle peptide non-covalently combined with CRISPR-associated (Cas) ribonucleoprotein (RNP) enabled editing of human and mouse airway epithelial cells. Here, we derive the S315 peptide as an improvement over S10 in delivering base editor RNP. Following intratracheal aerosol delivery of Cy5-labeled peptide in rhesus macaques, we confirm delivery throughout the respiratory tract. Subsequently, we target CCR5 with co-administration of ABE8e-Cas9 RNP and S315. We achieve editing efficiencies of up-to 5.3% in rhesus airway epithelia. Moreover, we document persistence of edited epithelia for up to 12 months in mice. Finally, delivery of ABE8e-Cas9 targeting the CFTR R553X mutation restores anion channel function in cultured human airway epithelia. These results demonstrate the therapeutic potential of base editor delivery with S315 to functionally correct the CFTR R553X mutation in respiratory epithelia.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Soumba Traore
- Department of Pediatrics, University of Iowa, Iowa City, IA, USA
| | | | | | | | | | | | | | - Sajeev Kohli
- Merkin Institute of Transformative Technologies in Healthcare, Broad Institute of MIT and Harvard, Cambridge, MA, USA
- Department of Chemistry and Chemical Biology, Harvard University, Cambridge, MA, USA
- Howard Hughes Medical Institute, Harvard University, Cambridge, MA, USA
| | - Thomas J Gross
- Department of Internal Medicine, University of Iowa, Iowa City, IA, USA
| | | | | | | | - Gavin Kurgan
- Integrated DNA Technologies, Coralville, IA, USA
| | | | - Dennis J Hartigan-O'Connor
- Department of Medical Microbiology and Immunology, School of Medicine, UC Davis, Davis, CA, USA
- California National Primate Research Center, UC Davis, Davis, CA, USA
| | - Bradley P Yates
- Department of Genetic Medicine, Johns Hopkins University School of Medicine, Baltimore, MD, USA
| | - Gregory A Newby
- Merkin Institute of Transformative Technologies in Healthcare, Broad Institute of MIT and Harvard, Cambridge, MA, USA
- Department of Chemistry and Chemical Biology, Harvard University, Cambridge, MA, USA
- Howard Hughes Medical Institute, Harvard University, Cambridge, MA, USA
- Department of Genetic Medicine, Johns Hopkins University School of Medicine, Baltimore, MD, USA
| | - David R Liu
- Merkin Institute of Transformative Technologies in Healthcare, Broad Institute of MIT and Harvard, Cambridge, MA, USA
- Department of Chemistry and Chemical Biology, Harvard University, Cambridge, MA, USA
- Howard Hughes Medical Institute, Harvard University, Cambridge, MA, USA
| | - Alice F Tarantal
- California National Primate Research Center, UC Davis, Davis, CA, USA
- Department of Pediatrics, School of Medicine, UC Davis, Davis, CA, USA
- Department of Cell Biology and Human Anatomy, School of Medicine, UC Davis, Davis, CA, USA
| | | | - Paul B McCray
- Department of Pediatrics, University of Iowa, Iowa City, IA, USA.
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14
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Tang Z, Jiang W, Li S, Huang X, Yang Y, Chen X, Qiu J, Xiao C, Xie Y, Zhang X, Li J, Verma CS, He Y, Yang A. Design and evaluation of tadpole-like conformational antimicrobial peptides. Commun Biol 2023; 6:1177. [PMID: 37980400 PMCID: PMC10657444 DOI: 10.1038/s42003-023-05560-0] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/03/2023] [Accepted: 11/08/2023] [Indexed: 11/20/2023] Open
Abstract
Antimicrobial peptides are promising alternatives to conventional antibiotics. Herein, we report a class of "tadpole-like" peptides consisting of an amphipathic α-helical head and an aromatic tail. A structure-activity relationship (SAR) study of "tadpole-like" temporin-SHf and its analogs revealed that increasing the number of aromatic residues in the tail, introducing Arg to the α-helical head and rearranging the peptide topology dramatically increased antimicrobial activity. Through progressive structural optimization, we obtained two peptides, HT2 and RI-HT2, which exhibited potent antimicrobial activity, no hemolytic activity and cytotoxicity, and no propensity to induce resistance. NMR and molecular dynamics simulations revealed that both peptides indeed adopted "tadpole-like" conformations. Fluorescence experiments and electron microscopy confirmed the membrane targeting mechanisms of the peptides. Our studies not only lead to the discovery of a series of ultrashort peptides with potent broad-spectrum antimicrobial activities, but also provide a new strategy for rational design of novel "tadpole-like" antimicrobial peptides.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ziyi Tang
- Chongqing Institute of Green and Intelligent Technology, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Chongqing, 400714, China
- School of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Chongqing University, Chongqing, 401331, China
| | - Wuqiao Jiang
- School of Life Sciences, Chongqing University, Chongqing, 401331, China
| | - Shuangli Li
- National Centre for Magnetic Resonance in Wuhan, State Key Laboratory of Magnetic Resonance and Atomic and Molecular Physics, Innovation Academy for Precision Measurement Science and Technology, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Wuhan, 430071, China
| | - Xue Huang
- School of Life Sciences, Chongqing University, Chongqing, 401331, China
| | - Yi Yang
- School of Life Sciences, Chongqing University, Chongqing, 401331, China
| | - Xiaorong Chen
- School of Life Sciences, Chongqing University, Chongqing, 401331, China
| | - Jingyi Qiu
- Chongqing Institute of Green and Intelligent Technology, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Chongqing, 400714, China
| | - Chuyu Xiao
- School of Life Sciences, Chongqing University, Chongqing, 401331, China
| | - Ying Xie
- School of Life Sciences, Chongqing University, Chongqing, 401331, China
| | - Xu Zhang
- National Centre for Magnetic Resonance in Wuhan, State Key Laboratory of Magnetic Resonance and Atomic and Molecular Physics, Innovation Academy for Precision Measurement Science and Technology, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Wuhan, 430071, China
| | - Jianguo Li
- Bioinformatics Institute, A∗STAR, 30 Biopolis Street, Matrix, Singapore, 138671, Singapore
- Singapore Eye Research Institute, Singapore, 169856, Singapore
| | - Chandra Shekhar Verma
- Bioinformatics Institute, A∗STAR, 30 Biopolis Street, Matrix, Singapore, 138671, Singapore
- Department of Biological Sciences, National University of, Singapore, 117543, Singapore
- School of Biological Sciences, Nanyang Technological University, Singapore, 637551, Singapore
| | - Yun He
- School of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Chongqing University, Chongqing, 401331, China.
- BayRay Innovation Center, Shenzhen Bay Laboratory, Shenzhen, 518132, China.
| | - Aimin Yang
- School of Life Sciences, Chongqing University, Chongqing, 401331, China.
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15
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Alamdari-Palangi V, Jaberi KR, Shahverdi M, Naeimzadeh Y, Tajbakhsh A, Khajeh S, Razban V, Fallahi J. Recent advances and applications of peptide-agent conjugates for targeting tumor cells. J Cancer Res Clin Oncol 2023; 149:15249-15273. [PMID: 37581648 DOI: 10.1007/s00432-023-05144-9] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/23/2023] [Accepted: 07/08/2023] [Indexed: 08/16/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Cancer, being a complex disease, presents a major challenge for the scientific and medical communities. Peptide therapeutics have played a significant role in different medical practices, including cancer treatment. METHOD This review provides an overview of the current situation and potential development prospects of anticancer peptides (ACPs), with a particular focus on peptide vaccines and peptide-drug conjugates for cancer treatment. RESULTS ACPs can be used directly as cytotoxic agents (molecularly targeted peptides) or can act as carriers (guiding missile) of chemotherapeutic agents and radionuclides by specifically targeting cancer cells. More than 60 natural and synthetic cationic peptides are approved in the USA and other major markets for the treatment of cancer and other diseases. Compared to traditional cancer treatments, peptides exhibit anticancer activity with high specificity and the ability to rapidly kill target cancer cells. ACP's target and kill cancer cells via different mechanisms, including membrane disruption, pore formation, induction of apoptosis, necrosis, autophagy, and regulation of the immune system. Modified peptides have been developed as carriers for drugs, vaccines, and peptide-drug conjugates, which have been evaluated in various phases of clinical trials for the treatment of different types of solid and leukemia cancer. CONCLUSIONS This review highlights the potential of ACPs as a promising therapeutic option for cancer treatment, particularly through the use of peptide vaccines and peptide-drug conjugates. Despite the limitations of peptides, such as poor metabolic stability and low bioavailability, modified peptides show promise in addressing these challenges. Various mechanism of action of anticancer peptides. Modes of action against cancer cells including: inducing apoptosis by cytochrome c release, direct cell membrane lysis (necrosis), inhibiting angiogenesis, inducing autophagy-mediated cell death and immune cell regulation.
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Affiliation(s)
- Vahab Alamdari-Palangi
- Department of Molecular Medicine, School of Advanced Medical Sciences and Technologies, Shiraz University of Medical Sciences, Shiraz, 7133654361, Iran
| | - Khojaste Rahimi Jaberi
- Department of Neuroscience, School of Advanced Medical Sciences and Technologies, Shiraz University of Medical Sciences, Shiraz, Iran
| | - Mahshid Shahverdi
- Medical Biotechnology Research Center, Arak University of Medical Sciences, Arak, Iran
| | - Yasaman Naeimzadeh
- Department of Molecular Medicine, School of Advanced Medical Sciences and Technologies, Shiraz University of Medical Sciences, Shiraz, 7133654361, Iran
| | - Amir Tajbakhsh
- Department of Molecular Medicine, School of Advanced Medical Sciences and Technologies, Shiraz University of Medical Sciences, Shiraz, 7133654361, Iran
- Pharmaceutical Sciences Research Center, Shiraz University of Medical Sciences, Shiraz, Iran
| | - Sahar Khajeh
- Bone and Joint Diseases Research Center, Shiraz University of Medical Sciences, Shiraz, Iran
| | - Vahid Razban
- Department of Molecular Medicine, School of Advanced Medical Sciences and Technologies, Shiraz University of Medical Sciences, Shiraz, 7133654361, Iran.
| | - Jafar Fallahi
- Department of Molecular Medicine, School of Advanced Medical Sciences and Technologies, Shiraz University of Medical Sciences, Shiraz, 7133654361, Iran.
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16
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Kumar Sharma A, Sharma R, Dev Sarma H, Mukherjee A, Das T, Satpati D. Design, synthesis and evaluation of 177Lu-labeled inverso and retro-inverso A9 peptide variants targeting HER2-overexpression. Bioorg Chem 2023; 140:106761. [PMID: 37586132 DOI: 10.1016/j.bioorg.2023.106761] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/12/2023] [Revised: 07/20/2023] [Accepted: 07/31/2023] [Indexed: 08/18/2023]
Abstract
Several HER2-specific peptides are being continuously explored to find a candidate with suitable pharmacokinetic properties for development of effective radiopharmaceutical that can find applications for clinical screening of breast cancer patients. In the present work with an aim of preparing a radiopeptide with improved metabolic stability and in vivo pharmacokinetic performance we modified our previously reported [177Lu]DOTA-L-A9 peptide. Here we designed an 'inverso' peptide with all d-amino acids and a 'retro-inverso' peptide where sequence of d-amino acids was reversed. Higher secondary structure stabilization of retro- inverso A9 variant compared to inverso A9 peptide was evident by circular dichroism studies. The two radiopeptides [177Lu]DOTA-D-A9 and [177Lu]DOTA-rD-A9 exhibited significantly improved in vivo metabolic stability over the original l-peptide. The retro-inverso variant, [177Lu]DOTA-rD-A9 demonstrated better pharmacokinetic behavior with significantly higher tumor uptake than the inverso peptide, [177Lu]DOTA-D-A9 and the original peptide, [177Lu]DOTA-L-A9. In the present case of A9 peptide, reversal of the peptide sequence of d-amino acids boosted the uptake and retention of radioactivity in HER2-positive tumor. The present study can thus guide the design and development of newer and improved versions of peptides.
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Affiliation(s)
- Amit Kumar Sharma
- Radiopharmaceuticals Division, Bhabha Atomic Research Centre, Mumbai, India; Homi Bhabha National Institute, Mumbai, India
| | - Rohit Sharma
- Radiopharmaceuticals Division, Bhabha Atomic Research Centre, Mumbai, India; Homi Bhabha National Institute, Mumbai, India
| | - Haladhar Dev Sarma
- Radiation Biology and Health Sciences Division, Bhabha Atomic Research Centre, Mumbai, India
| | - Archana Mukherjee
- Radiopharmaceuticals Division, Bhabha Atomic Research Centre, Mumbai, India; Homi Bhabha National Institute, Mumbai, India
| | - Tapas Das
- Radiopharmaceuticals Division, Bhabha Atomic Research Centre, Mumbai, India; Homi Bhabha National Institute, Mumbai, India
| | - Drishty Satpati
- Radiopharmaceuticals Division, Bhabha Atomic Research Centre, Mumbai, India; Homi Bhabha National Institute, Mumbai, India.
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17
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Carrera-Aubesart A, Gallo M, Defaus S, Todorovski T, Andreu D. Topoisomeric Membrane-Active Peptides: A Review of the Last Two Decades. Pharmaceutics 2023; 15:2451. [PMID: 37896211 PMCID: PMC10610229 DOI: 10.3390/pharmaceutics15102451] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/30/2023] [Revised: 10/06/2023] [Accepted: 10/10/2023] [Indexed: 10/29/2023] Open
Abstract
In recent decades, bioactive peptides have been gaining recognition in various biomedical areas, such as intracellular drug delivery (cell-penetrating peptides, CPPs) or anti-infective action (antimicrobial peptides, AMPs), closely associated to their distinct mode of interaction with biological membranes. Exploiting the interaction of membrane-active peptides with diverse targets (healthy, tumoral, bacterial or parasitic cell membranes) is opening encouraging prospects for peptides in therapeutics. However, ordinary peptides formed by L-amino acids are easily decomposed by proteases in biological fluids. One way to sidestep this limitation is to use topoisomers, namely versions of the peptide made up of D-amino acids in either canonic (enantio) or inverted (retroenantio) sequence. Rearranging peptide sequences in this fashion provides a certain degree of native structure mimicry that, in appropriate contexts, may deliver desirable biological activity while avoiding protease degradation. In this review, we will focus on recent accounts of membrane-active topoisomeric peptides with therapeutic applications as CPP drug delivery vectors, or as antimicrobial and anticancer candidates. We will also discuss the most common modes of interaction of these peptides with their membrane targets.
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Affiliation(s)
- Adam Carrera-Aubesart
- Department of Medicine and Life Sciences, Universitat Pompeu Fabra, 08003 Barcelona, Spain; (A.C.-A.); (M.G.); (S.D.); (T.T.)
| | - Maria Gallo
- Department of Medicine and Life Sciences, Universitat Pompeu Fabra, 08003 Barcelona, Spain; (A.C.-A.); (M.G.); (S.D.); (T.T.)
| | - Sira Defaus
- Department of Medicine and Life Sciences, Universitat Pompeu Fabra, 08003 Barcelona, Spain; (A.C.-A.); (M.G.); (S.D.); (T.T.)
| | - Toni Todorovski
- Department of Medicine and Life Sciences, Universitat Pompeu Fabra, 08003 Barcelona, Spain; (A.C.-A.); (M.G.); (S.D.); (T.T.)
- Department of Biotechnology, University of Rijeka, 51000 Rijeka, Croatia
| | - David Andreu
- Department of Medicine and Life Sciences, Universitat Pompeu Fabra, 08003 Barcelona, Spain; (A.C.-A.); (M.G.); (S.D.); (T.T.)
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18
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Sharma AK, Sharma R, Das A, Chakraborty A, Rakshit S, Sarma HD, Mukherjee A, Das T, Satpati D. Synthesis and 177Lu Labeling of the First Retro Analog of the HER2-Targeting A9 Peptide: A Superior Variant. Bioconjug Chem 2023; 34:1576-1584. [PMID: 37379455 DOI: 10.1021/acs.bioconjchem.3c00265] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 06/30/2023]
Abstract
The retro analog of the HER2-targeting A9 peptide was synthesized by coupling amino acids in a reverse fashion and switching the N-terminal in the original sequence of the L-A9 peptide (QDVNTAVAW) to the C-terminal in rL-A9 (WAVATNVDQ). Modification in the backbone resulted in higher conformational stability of the retro peptide as evident from CD spectra. Molecular docking analysis revealed a higher HER2 binding affinity of [177Lu]Lu-DOTA-rL-A9 than the original radiopeptide [177Lu]Lu-DOTA-L-A9. Enormously enhanced metabolic stability of the retro analog led to significant elevation in tumor uptake and retention. SPECT imaging studies corroborated biodistribution results demonstrating a remarkably higher tumor signal for [177Lu]Lu-DOTA-rL-A9. The presently studied retro probe has promising efficiency for clinical screening.
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Affiliation(s)
- Amit Kumar Sharma
- Radiopharmaceuticals Division, Bhabha Atomic Research Centre, Mumbai, Maharashtra 400085, India
- Homi Bhabha National Institute, Mumbai 400094, India
| | - Rohit Sharma
- Radiopharmaceuticals Division, Bhabha Atomic Research Centre, Mumbai, Maharashtra 400085, India
- Homi Bhabha National Institute, Mumbai 400094, India
| | - Amit Das
- Radiation Biology and Health Sciences Division, Bhabha Atomic Research Centre, Mumbai, Maharashtra 400085, India
- Homi Bhabha National Institute, Mumbai 400094, India
| | - Avik Chakraborty
- Radiation Medicine Centre, Bhabha Atomic Research Centre, Mumbai, Maharashtra 400012, India
- Homi Bhabha National Institute, Mumbai 400094, India
| | - Sutapa Rakshit
- Radiation Medicine Centre, Bhabha Atomic Research Centre, Mumbai, Maharashtra 400012, India
| | - Haladhar Dev Sarma
- Radiation Biology and Health Sciences Division, Bhabha Atomic Research Centre, Mumbai, Maharashtra 400085, India
| | - Archana Mukherjee
- Radiopharmaceuticals Division, Bhabha Atomic Research Centre, Mumbai, Maharashtra 400085, India
- Homi Bhabha National Institute, Mumbai 400094, India
| | - Tapas Das
- Radiopharmaceuticals Division, Bhabha Atomic Research Centre, Mumbai, Maharashtra 400085, India
- Homi Bhabha National Institute, Mumbai 400094, India
| | - Drishty Satpati
- Radiopharmaceuticals Division, Bhabha Atomic Research Centre, Mumbai, Maharashtra 400085, India
- Homi Bhabha National Institute, Mumbai 400094, India
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19
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Bu H, Lan X, Cheng H, Pei C, Ouyang M, Chen Y, Huang X, Yu L, Tan Y. Development of an interfering peptide M1-20 with potent anti-cancer effects by targeting FOXM1. Cell Death Dis 2023; 14:533. [PMID: 37598210 PMCID: PMC10439915 DOI: 10.1038/s41419-023-06056-9] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/22/2023] [Revised: 08/01/2023] [Accepted: 08/09/2023] [Indexed: 08/21/2023]
Abstract
Disrupting protein-protein interactions (PPIs) has emerged as a promising strategy for cancer drug development. Interfering peptides disrupting PPIs can be rationally designed based on the structures of natural sequences mediating these interactions. Transcription factor FOXM1 overexpresses in multiple cancers and is considered an effective target for cancer therapeutic drug development. Using a rational design approach, we have generated a peptide library from the FOXM1 C-terminal sequence and screened FOXM1-binding peptides. Combining FOXM1 binding and cell inhibitory results, we have obtained a FOXM1-targeting interfering peptide M1-20 that is optimized from the natural parent peptide to the D-retro-inverso peptide. With improved stability characteristics, M1-20 inhibits proliferation and migration, and induces apoptosis of cancer cells. Mechanistically, M1-20 inhibits FOXM1 transcriptional activities by disrupting its interaction between the MuvB complex and the transcriptional co-activator CBP. These are consistent with the results that M1-20 suppresses cancer progression and metastasis without noticeable toxic and side effects in wild-type mice. These findings reveal that M1-20 has the potential to be developed as an anti-cancer drug candidate targeting FOXM1.
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Affiliation(s)
- Huitong Bu
- State Key Laboratory of Chemo/Biosensing and Chemometrics, College of Biology, Hunan Engineering Research Center for Anticancer Targeted Protein Pharmaceuticals, Hunan University, Changsha, Hunan, 410082, China
| | - Xianling Lan
- State Key Laboratory of Chemo/Biosensing and Chemometrics, College of Biology, Hunan Engineering Research Center for Anticancer Targeted Protein Pharmaceuticals, Hunan University, Changsha, Hunan, 410082, China
| | - Haojie Cheng
- State Key Laboratory of Chemo/Biosensing and Chemometrics, College of Biology, Hunan Engineering Research Center for Anticancer Targeted Protein Pharmaceuticals, Hunan University, Changsha, Hunan, 410082, China
| | - Chaozhu Pei
- State Key Laboratory of Chemo/Biosensing and Chemometrics, College of Biology, Hunan Engineering Research Center for Anticancer Targeted Protein Pharmaceuticals, Hunan University, Changsha, Hunan, 410082, China
| | - Min Ouyang
- State Key Laboratory of Chemo/Biosensing and Chemometrics, College of Biology, Hunan Engineering Research Center for Anticancer Targeted Protein Pharmaceuticals, Hunan University, Changsha, Hunan, 410082, China
| | - Yan Chen
- State Key Laboratory of Chemo/Biosensing and Chemometrics, College of Biology, Hunan Engineering Research Center for Anticancer Targeted Protein Pharmaceuticals, Hunan University, Changsha, Hunan, 410082, China
| | - Xiaoqin Huang
- State Key Laboratory of Chemo/Biosensing and Chemometrics, College of Biology, Hunan Engineering Research Center for Anticancer Targeted Protein Pharmaceuticals, Hunan University, Changsha, Hunan, 410082, China
| | - Li Yu
- State Key Laboratory of Chemo/Biosensing and Chemometrics, College of Biology, Hunan Engineering Research Center for Anticancer Targeted Protein Pharmaceuticals, Hunan University, Changsha, Hunan, 410082, China
| | - Yongjun Tan
- State Key Laboratory of Chemo/Biosensing and Chemometrics, College of Biology, Hunan Engineering Research Center for Anticancer Targeted Protein Pharmaceuticals, Hunan University, Changsha, Hunan, 410082, China.
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20
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Hernández D, Porras M, Boto A. Conversion of Hydroxyproline "Doubly Customizable Units" to Hexahydropyrimidines: Access to Conformationally Constrained Peptides. J Org Chem 2023. [PMID: 37429014 PMCID: PMC10367070 DOI: 10.1021/acs.joc.3c00673] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 07/12/2023]
Abstract
The efficient transformation of hydroxyproline "doubly customizable units" into rigid hexahydropyrimidine units takes place in good global yields and generates compounds of pharmaceutical interest. In particular, the process can readily provide access to peptidomimetics and peptides with reversed sequences or with valuable turns.
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Affiliation(s)
- Dácil Hernández
- Instituto de Productos Naturales y Agrobiología del CSIC, Avda. Astrofísico Fco. Sánchez, 3, La Laguna, Tenerife 38206, Spain
| | - Marina Porras
- Instituto de Productos Naturales y Agrobiología del CSIC, Avda. Astrofísico Fco. Sánchez, 3, La Laguna, Tenerife 38206, Spain
| | - Alicia Boto
- Instituto de Productos Naturales y Agrobiología del CSIC, Avda. Astrofísico Fco. Sánchez, 3, La Laguna, Tenerife 38206, Spain
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21
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Cheng H, Yuan J, Pei C, Ouyang M, Bu H, Chen Y, Huang X, Zhang Z, Yu L, Tan Y. The development of an anti-cancer peptide M1-21 targeting transcription factor FOXM1. Cell Biosci 2023; 13:114. [PMID: 37344857 DOI: 10.1186/s13578-023-01059-7] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/18/2023] [Accepted: 05/26/2023] [Indexed: 06/23/2023] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Transcription factor FOXM1 is a potential target for anti-cancer drug development. An interfering peptide M1-21, targeting FOXM1 and FOXM1-interacting proteins, is developed and its anti-cancer efficacy is evaluated. METHODS FOXM1 C-terminus-binding peptides are screened by in silico protocols from the peptide library of FOXM1 (1-138aa) and confirmed by cellular experiments. The selected peptide is synthesized into its D-retro-inverso (DRI) form by fusing a TAT cell-penetrating sequence. Anti-cancer activities are evaluated in vitro and in vivo with tumor-grafted nude mice, spontaneous breast cancer mice, and wild-type metastasis-tracing mice. Anti-cancer mechanisms are analyzed. Distribution and safety profiles in mice are evaluated. RESULTS With improved stability and cell inhibitory activity compared to the parent peptide, M1-21 binds to multiple regions of FOXM1 and interferes with protein-protein interactions between FOXM1 and its various known partner proteins, including PLK1, LIN9 and B-MYB of the MuvB complex, and β-catenin. Consequently, M1-21 inhibits FOXM1-related transcriptional activities and FOXM1-mediated nuclear importation of β-catenin and β-catenin transcriptional activities. M1-21 inhibits multiple types of cancer (20 µM in vitro or 30 mg/kg in vivo) by preventing proliferation, migration, and WNT signaling. Distribution and safety profiles of M1-21 are favorable (broad distribution and > 15 h stability in mice) and the tested non-severely toxic dose reaches 200 mg/kg in mice. M1-21 also has low hemolytic toxicity and immunogenicity in mice. CONCLUSIONS M1-21 is a promising interfering peptide targeting FOXM1 for the development of anti-cancer drugs.
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Affiliation(s)
- Haojie Cheng
- State Key Laboratory of Chemo/Biosensing and Chemometrics, College of Biology, Hunan Engineering Research Center for Anticancer Targeted Protein Pharmaceuticals, Hunan University, 410082, Changsha, Hunan, China
| | - Jie Yuan
- State Key Laboratory of Chemo/Biosensing and Chemometrics, College of Biology, Hunan Engineering Research Center for Anticancer Targeted Protein Pharmaceuticals, Hunan University, 410082, Changsha, Hunan, China
| | - Chaozhu Pei
- State Key Laboratory of Chemo/Biosensing and Chemometrics, College of Biology, Hunan Engineering Research Center for Anticancer Targeted Protein Pharmaceuticals, Hunan University, 410082, Changsha, Hunan, China
| | - Min Ouyang
- State Key Laboratory of Chemo/Biosensing and Chemometrics, College of Biology, Hunan Engineering Research Center for Anticancer Targeted Protein Pharmaceuticals, Hunan University, 410082, Changsha, Hunan, China
| | - Huitong Bu
- State Key Laboratory of Chemo/Biosensing and Chemometrics, College of Biology, Hunan Engineering Research Center for Anticancer Targeted Protein Pharmaceuticals, Hunan University, 410082, Changsha, Hunan, China
| | - Yan Chen
- State Key Laboratory of Chemo/Biosensing and Chemometrics, College of Biology, Hunan Engineering Research Center for Anticancer Targeted Protein Pharmaceuticals, Hunan University, 410082, Changsha, Hunan, China
| | - Xiaoqin Huang
- State Key Laboratory of Chemo/Biosensing and Chemometrics, College of Biology, Hunan Engineering Research Center for Anticancer Targeted Protein Pharmaceuticals, Hunan University, 410082, Changsha, Hunan, China
| | - Zhenwang Zhang
- State Key Laboratory of Chemo/Biosensing and Chemometrics, College of Biology, Hunan Engineering Research Center for Anticancer Targeted Protein Pharmaceuticals, Hunan University, 410082, Changsha, Hunan, China.
- Medicine Research Institute, Hubei Key Laboratory of Diabetes and Angiopathy, Xianning Medical College, Hubei University of Science and Technology, 437000, Xianning, Hubei, China.
| | - Li Yu
- State Key Laboratory of Chemo/Biosensing and Chemometrics, College of Biology, Hunan Engineering Research Center for Anticancer Targeted Protein Pharmaceuticals, Hunan University, 410082, Changsha, Hunan, China.
| | - Yongjun Tan
- State Key Laboratory of Chemo/Biosensing and Chemometrics, College of Biology, Hunan Engineering Research Center for Anticancer Targeted Protein Pharmaceuticals, Hunan University, 410082, Changsha, Hunan, China.
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22
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Castro TG, Melle-Franco M, Sousa CEA, Cavaco-Paulo A, Marcos JC. Non-Canonical Amino Acids as Building Blocks for Peptidomimetics: Structure, Function, and Applications. Biomolecules 2023; 13:981. [PMID: 37371561 DOI: 10.3390/biom13060981] [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: 04/19/2023] [Revised: 06/05/2023] [Accepted: 06/09/2023] [Indexed: 06/29/2023] Open
Abstract
This review provides a fresh overview of non-canonical amino acids and their applications in the design of peptidomimetics. Non-canonical amino acids appear widely distributed in nature and are known to enhance the stability of specific secondary structures and/or biological function. Contrary to the ubiquitous DNA-encoded amino acids, the structure and function of these residues are not fully understood. Here, results from experimental and molecular modelling approaches are gathered to classify several classes of non-canonical amino acids according to their ability to induce specific secondary structures yielding different biological functions and improved stability. Regarding side-chain modifications, symmetrical and asymmetrical α,α-dialkyl glycines, Cα to Cα cyclized amino acids, proline analogues, β-substituted amino acids, and α,β-dehydro amino acids are some of the non-canonical representatives addressed. Backbone modifications were also examined, especially those that result in retro-inverso peptidomimetics and depsipeptides. All this knowledge has an important application in the field of peptidomimetics, which is in continuous progress and promises to deliver new biologically active molecules and new materials in the near future.
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Affiliation(s)
- Tarsila G Castro
- CEB-Centre of Biological Engineering, University of Minho, Campus de Gualtar, 4710-057 Braga, Portugal
- LABBELS-Associate Laboratory, Braga/Guimarães, Portugal
| | - Manuel Melle-Franco
- CICECO-Aveiro Institute of Materials, Department of Chemistry, University of Aveiro, 3810-193 Aveiro, Portugal
| | - Cristina E A Sousa
- BioMark Sensor Research-School of Engineering of the Polytechnic Institute of Porto, 4249-015 Porto, Portugal
| | - Artur Cavaco-Paulo
- CEB-Centre of Biological Engineering, University of Minho, Campus de Gualtar, 4710-057 Braga, Portugal
- LABBELS-Associate Laboratory, Braga/Guimarães, Portugal
| | - João C Marcos
- Centre of Chemistry, University of Minho, Campus de Gualtar, 4710-057 Braga, Portugal
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23
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Nag A, Mafi A, Das S, Yu MB, Alvarez-Villalonga B, Kim SK, Su Y, Goddard WA, Heath JR. Stereochemical engineering yields a multifunctional peptide macrocycle inhibitor of Akt2 by fine-tuning macrocycle-cell membrane interactions. Commun Chem 2023; 6:95. [PMID: 37202473 DOI: 10.1038/s42004-023-00890-w] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/17/2022] [Accepted: 04/26/2023] [Indexed: 05/20/2023] Open
Abstract
Macrocycle peptides are promising constructs for imaging and inhibiting extracellular, and cell membrane proteins, but their use for targeting intracellular proteins is typically limited by poor cell penetration. We report the development of a cell-penetrant high-affinity peptide ligand targeted to the phosphorylated Ser474 epitope of the (active) Akt2 kinase. This peptide can function as an allosteric inhibitor, an immunoprecipitation reagent, and a live cell immunohistochemical staining reagent. Two cell penetrant stereoisomers were prepared and shown to exhibit similar target binding affinities and hydrophobic character but 2-3-fold different rates of cell penetration. Experimental and computational studies resolved that the ligands' difference in cell penetration could be assigned to their differential interactions with cholesterol in the membrane. These results expand the tool kit for designing new chiral-based cell-penetrant ligands.
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Affiliation(s)
- Arundhati Nag
- California Institute of Technology, Pasadena, CA, USA
- Clark University, Worcester, MA, USA
| | - Amirhossein Mafi
- Materials and Process Simulation Center (139-74), California Institute of Technology, Pasadena, CA, USA
| | - Samir Das
- California Institute of Technology, Pasadena, CA, USA
- Clark University, Worcester, MA, USA
| | - Mary Beth Yu
- California Institute of Technology, Pasadena, CA, USA
| | | | - Soo-Kyung Kim
- Materials and Process Simulation Center (139-74), California Institute of Technology, Pasadena, CA, USA
| | - Yapeng Su
- California Institute of Technology, Pasadena, CA, USA
- Institute for Systems Biology, Seattle, WA, USA
| | - William A Goddard
- Materials and Process Simulation Center (139-74), California Institute of Technology, Pasadena, CA, USA
| | - James R Heath
- California Institute of Technology, Pasadena, CA, USA.
- Institute for Systems Biology, Seattle, WA, USA.
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24
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Monti A, Vitagliano L, Caporale A, Ruvo M, Doti N. Targeting Protein-Protein Interfaces with Peptides: The Contribution of Chemical Combinatorial Peptide Library Approaches. Int J Mol Sci 2023; 24:ijms24097842. [PMID: 37175549 PMCID: PMC10178479 DOI: 10.3390/ijms24097842] [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: 03/30/2023] [Revised: 04/22/2023] [Accepted: 04/23/2023] [Indexed: 05/15/2023] Open
Abstract
Protein-protein interfaces play fundamental roles in the molecular mechanisms underlying pathophysiological pathways and are important targets for the design of compounds of therapeutic interest. However, the identification of binding sites on protein surfaces and the development of modulators of protein-protein interactions still represent a major challenge due to their highly dynamic and extensive interfacial areas. Over the years, multiple strategies including structural, computational, and combinatorial approaches have been developed to characterize PPI and to date, several successful examples of small molecules, antibodies, peptides, and aptamers able to modulate these interfaces have been determined. Notably, peptides are a particularly useful tool for inhibiting PPIs due to their exquisite potency, specificity, and selectivity. Here, after an overview of PPIs and of the commonly used approaches to identify and characterize them, we describe and evaluate the impact of chemical peptide libraries in medicinal chemistry with a special focus on the results achieved through recent applications of this methodology. Finally, we also discuss the role that this methodology can have in the framework of the opportunities, and challenges that the application of new predictive approaches based on artificial intelligence is generating in structural biology.
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Affiliation(s)
- Alessandra Monti
- Institute of Biostructures and Bioimaging (IBB), National Research Council (CNR), 80131 Napoli, Italy
| | - Luigi Vitagliano
- Institute of Biostructures and Bioimaging (IBB), National Research Council (CNR), 80131 Napoli, Italy
| | - Andrea Caporale
- Institute of Crystallography (IC), National Research Council (CNR), Strada Statale 14 km 163.5, Basovizza, 34149 Triese, Italy
| | - Menotti Ruvo
- Institute of Biostructures and Bioimaging (IBB), National Research Council (CNR), 80131 Napoli, Italy
| | - Nunzianna Doti
- Institute of Biostructures and Bioimaging (IBB), National Research Council (CNR), 80131 Napoli, Italy
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25
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Ding D, Xu S, da Silva-Júnior EF, Liu X, Zhan P. Medicinal chemistry insights into antiviral peptidomimetics. Drug Discov Today 2023; 28:103468. [PMID: 36528280 DOI: 10.1016/j.drudis.2022.103468] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/18/2022] [Revised: 12/06/2022] [Accepted: 12/09/2022] [Indexed: 12/15/2022]
Abstract
The (re)emergence of multidrug-resistant viruses and the emergence of new viruses highlight the urgent and ongoing need for new antiviral agents. The use of peptidomimetics as therapeutic drugs has often been associated with advantages, such as enhanced binding affinity, improved metabolic stability, and good bioavailability profiles. The development of novel antivirals is currently driven by strategies of converting peptides into peptidomimetic derivatives. In this review, we outline different structural modification design strategies for developing novel peptidomimetics as antivirals, involving N- or C-cap terminal structure modifications, pseudopeptides, amino acid modifications, inverse-peptides, cyclization, and molecular hybridization. We also present successful recent examples of peptidomimetic designs.
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Affiliation(s)
- Dang Ding
- Department of Medicinal Chemistry, Key Laboratory of Chemical Biology (Ministry of Education), School of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Cheeloo College of Medicine, Shandong University, 44 West Culture Road, 250012 Jinan, Shandong, PR China
| | - Shujing Xu
- Department of Medicinal Chemistry, Key Laboratory of Chemical Biology (Ministry of Education), School of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Cheeloo College of Medicine, Shandong University, 44 West Culture Road, 250012 Jinan, Shandong, PR China
| | | | - Xinyong Liu
- Department of Medicinal Chemistry, Key Laboratory of Chemical Biology (Ministry of Education), School of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Cheeloo College of Medicine, Shandong University, 44 West Culture Road, 250012 Jinan, Shandong, PR China.
| | - Peng Zhan
- Department of Medicinal Chemistry, Key Laboratory of Chemical Biology (Ministry of Education), School of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Cheeloo College of Medicine, Shandong University, 44 West Culture Road, 250012 Jinan, Shandong, PR China.
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26
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Okamoto H, Murano SA, Ikekawa K, Katsuyama M, Konno S, Taguchi A, Takayama K, Taniguchi A, Hayashi Y. Inactivation of myostatin by photooxygenation using functionalized d-peptides. RSC Med Chem 2023; 14:386-392. [PMID: 36846372 PMCID: PMC9945861 DOI: 10.1039/d2md00425a] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/30/2022] [Accepted: 12/25/2022] [Indexed: 01/04/2023] Open
Abstract
Inhibition of myostatin is an attractive strategy for the treatment of muscular atrophic diseases such as muscular dystrophy. For the efficient inhibition of myostatin, functionalized peptides were developed by the conjugation of a 16-mer myostatin-binding d-peptide with a photooxygenation catalyst. These peptides induced myostatin-selective photooxygenation and inactivation under near-infrared irradiation, and were associated with little cytotoxicity or phototoxicity. The peptides are resistant to enzymatic digestion due to their d-peptide chains. These properties could contribute to the in vivo use of photooxygenation-based inactivation strategies targeting myostatin.
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Affiliation(s)
- Hideyuki Okamoto
- Department of Medicinal Chemistry, School of Pharmacy, Tokyo University of Pharmacy and Life Sciences Hachioji Tokyo 192-0392 Japan
| | - Shuko Amber Murano
- Department of Medicinal Chemistry, School of Pharmacy, Tokyo University of Pharmacy and Life Sciences Hachioji Tokyo 192-0392 Japan
| | - Kaoru Ikekawa
- Department of Medicinal Chemistry, School of Pharmacy, Tokyo University of Pharmacy and Life Sciences Hachioji Tokyo 192-0392 Japan
| | - Masahiro Katsuyama
- Department of Medicinal Chemistry, School of Pharmacy, Tokyo University of Pharmacy and Life Sciences Hachioji Tokyo 192-0392 Japan
| | - Sho Konno
- Department of Medicinal Chemistry, School of Pharmacy, Tokyo University of Pharmacy and Life Sciences Hachioji Tokyo 192-0392 Japan
| | - Akihiro Taguchi
- Department of Medicinal Chemistry, School of Pharmacy, Tokyo University of Pharmacy and Life Sciences Hachioji Tokyo 192-0392 Japan
| | - Kentaro Takayama
- Department of Medicinal Chemistry, School of Pharmacy, Tokyo University of Pharmacy and Life Sciences Hachioji Tokyo 192-0392 Japan
- Department of Environmental Biochemistry, Kyoto Pharmaceutical University 5 Misasaginakauchi-cho, Yamashina Kyoto 607-8414 Japan
| | - Atsuhiko Taniguchi
- Department of Medicinal Chemistry, School of Pharmacy, Tokyo University of Pharmacy and Life Sciences Hachioji Tokyo 192-0392 Japan
| | - Yoshio Hayashi
- Department of Medicinal Chemistry, School of Pharmacy, Tokyo University of Pharmacy and Life Sciences Hachioji Tokyo 192-0392 Japan
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27
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Kulhankova K, Traore S, Cheng X, Benk-Fortin H, Hallée S, Harvey M, Roberge J, Couture F, Gross T, Newby G, Liu D, Tarantal A, Guay D, McCray P. Shuttle Peptide Delivers Base Editor RNPs to Rhesus Monkey Airway Epithelial Cells In Vivo. RESEARCH SQUARE 2023:rs.3.rs-2540755. [PMID: 36824928 PMCID: PMC9949254 DOI: 10.21203/rs.3.rs-2540755/v1] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 02/19/2023]
Abstract
Gene editing strategies for cystic fibrosis are challenged by the complex barrier properties of airway epithelia. We previously reported that the amphiphilic S10 shuttle peptide non-covalently combined with CRISPR-associated (Cas) ribonucleoprotein (RNP) enabled editing of human and mouse airway epithelial cells. Here, to improve base editor RNP delivery, we optimized S10 to derive the S315 peptide. Following intratracheal aerosol of Cy5-labeled peptide cargo in rhesus macaques, we confirmed delivery throughout the respiratory tract. Subsequently, we targeted CCR5 with co-administration of ABE8e-Cas9 RNP and S315. We achieved editing efficiencies of up to 5.3% in rhesus airway epithelia. Moreover, we documented persistence of edited epithelia for up to 12 months in mice. Finally, delivery of ABE8e-Cas9 targeting the CFTR R553X mutation restored anion channel function in cultured human airway epithelial cells. These results demonstrate the therapeutic potential of base editor delivery with S315 to functionally correct the CFTR R553X mutation in respiratory epithelia.
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28
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Ma S, Yang K, Li Z, Li L, Feng Y, Wang X, Wang J, Zhu Z, Wang Z, Wang J, Zhu Y, Liu L. A retro-inverso modified peptide alleviated ovalbumin-induced asthma model by affecting glycerophospholipid and purine metabolism of immune cells. Pulm Pharmacol Ther 2023; 78:102185. [PMID: 36563740 DOI: 10.1016/j.pupt.2022.102185] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/29/2022] [Revised: 12/16/2022] [Accepted: 12/19/2022] [Indexed: 12/24/2022]
Abstract
Allergic asthma is a heterogeneous disease involving a variety of inflammatory cells. Immune imbalance or changes in the immune microenvironment are the essential causes that promote inflammation in allergic asthma. Tetraspanin CD81 can be used as a platform for receptor clustering and signal transmission owing to its special transmembrane structure and is known to participate in the physiological processes of cell proliferation, differentiation, adhesion, and migration. Previous studies have shown that CD81-targeting peptidomimetics exhibit anti-allergic lung inflammation. However, due to the low metabolic stability of peptide drugs, their druggability is limited. Here, we aimed to generate a metabolically stable anti-CD81 peptide, evaluate its anti-inflammatory action and establish its mechanism of action. Based on previous reports, we applied retro-inverse peptide modification to obtain a new compound, PD00 (NH2-D-Gly-D-Ser-D-Thr-D-Tyr-D-Thr-D-Gln-D-Gly-COOH), with high metabolic stability. Enhanced ultraperformance liquid chromatography-tandem mass spectrometry was used to investigate the in vitro and in vivo metabolic stabilities of PD00. The affinities of PD00 and CD81 were studied using molecular docking and surface plasmon resonance techniques. An ovalbumin (OVA)-induced asthma model was used to evaluate the effects of PD00 in vivo. Mice were treated with different concentrations of PD00 (175 and 350 μg/kg) for 10 days. Airway hyperresponsiveness (AHR) to acetyl-β-methacholine (Mch), inflammatory cell counts in the bronchoalveolar lavage fluid, and serum OVA-specific IgE levels were detected in the mice at the end of the experiment. Lung tissues were collected for haematoxylin and eosin staining, untargeted metabolomic analysis, and single-cell transcriptome sequencing. PD00 has a high affinity for CD81; therefore, administration of PD00 markedly ameliorated AHR and airway inflammation in mice after OVA sensitisation and exposure. Serum OVA-specific IgE levels decreased considerably. In addition, PD00 treatment increased glycerophospholipid and purine metabolism in immune cells. Collectively, PD00 may regulate the glycerophospholipid and purine metabolism pathways to ameliorate the pathophysiological features of asthma. These findings suggest that PD00 is a potential compound for the treatment of asthma.
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Affiliation(s)
- Shumei Ma
- Department of Pharmacology, School of Pharmacy, Fudan University, Shanghai, PR China; Center for Pharmacological Evaluation and Research, Shanghai Institute of Pharmaceutical Industry, China State Institute of Pharmaceutical Industry, Shanghai, PR China; Shanghai Professional and Technical Service Center for Biological Material Drug-Ability Evaluation, Shanghai, PR China
| | - Kuan Yang
- State Key Laboratory of Military Stomatology & National Clinical Research Center for Oral Diseases & Shaanxi Key Laboratory of Stomatology, Department of Pediatric Dentistry, School of Stomatology, Fourth Military Medical University, Xi'an, PR China
| | - Zhihong Li
- Center for Pharmacological Evaluation and Research, Shanghai Institute of Pharmaceutical Industry, China State Institute of Pharmaceutical Industry, Shanghai, PR China; Shanghai Professional and Technical Service Center for Biological Material Drug-Ability Evaluation, Shanghai, PR China
| | - Liang Li
- Center for Pharmacological Evaluation and Research, Shanghai Institute of Pharmaceutical Industry, China State Institute of Pharmaceutical Industry, Shanghai, PR China; Shanghai Professional and Technical Service Center for Biological Material Drug-Ability Evaluation, Shanghai, PR China
| | - Yue Feng
- Center for Pharmacological Evaluation and Research, Shanghai Institute of Pharmaceutical Industry, China State Institute of Pharmaceutical Industry, Shanghai, PR China; Shanghai Professional and Technical Service Center for Biological Material Drug-Ability Evaluation, Shanghai, PR China
| | - Xiaowei Wang
- Shanghai Professional and Technical Service Center for Biological Material Drug-Ability Evaluation, Shanghai, PR China
| | - Jiahui Wang
- Center for Pharmacological Evaluation and Research, Shanghai Institute of Pharmaceutical Industry, China State Institute of Pharmaceutical Industry, Shanghai, PR China; Shanghai Professional and Technical Service Center for Biological Material Drug-Ability Evaluation, Shanghai, PR China
| | - Zhengdan Zhu
- Academy for Advanced Interdisciplinary Studies, Peking University, Beijing, PR China; Beijing Institute of Big Data Research, Beijing, PR China
| | - Zhiyong Wang
- Center for Pharmacological Evaluation and Research, Shanghai Institute of Pharmaceutical Industry, China State Institute of Pharmaceutical Industry, Shanghai, PR China; Shanghai Professional and Technical Service Center for Biological Material Drug-Ability Evaluation, Shanghai, PR China
| | - Juan Wang
- Center for Pharmacological Evaluation and Research, Shanghai Institute of Pharmaceutical Industry, China State Institute of Pharmaceutical Industry, Shanghai, PR China; Shanghai Professional and Technical Service Center for Biological Material Drug-Ability Evaluation, Shanghai, PR China
| | - Yizhun Zhu
- Department of Pharmacology, School of Pharmacy, Fudan University, Shanghai, PR China.
| | - Li Liu
- Department of Pharmacology, School of Pharmacy, Fudan University, Shanghai, PR China; Center for Pharmacological Evaluation and Research, Shanghai Institute of Pharmaceutical Industry, China State Institute of Pharmaceutical Industry, Shanghai, PR China; Shanghai Professional and Technical Service Center for Biological Material Drug-Ability Evaluation, Shanghai, PR China.
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29
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Selective Grafting of Protease-Resistant Adhesive Peptides on Titanium Surfaces. MOLECULES (BASEL, SWITZERLAND) 2022; 27:molecules27248727. [PMID: 36557865 PMCID: PMC9781125 DOI: 10.3390/molecules27248727] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/28/2022] [Revised: 12/02/2022] [Accepted: 12/07/2022] [Indexed: 12/14/2022]
Abstract
In orthopedic, dental, and maxillofacial fields, joint prostheses, plates, and screws are widely used in the treatment of problems related to bone tissue. However, the use of these prosthetic systems is not free from complications: the fibrotic encapsulation of endosseous implants often prevents optimal integration of the prostheses with the surrounding bone. To overcome these issues, biomimetic titanium implants have been developed where synthetic peptides have been selectively grafted on titanium surfaces via Schiff base formation. We used the retro-inverted sequence (DHVPX) from [351-359] human Vitronectin and its dimer (D2HVP). Both protease-resistant peptides showed increased human osteoblast adhesion and proliferation, an augmented number of focal adhesions, and cellular spreading with respect to the control. D2HVP-grafted samples significantly enhance Secreted Phosphoprotein 1, Integrin Binding Sialoprotein, and Vitronectin gene expression vs. control. An estimation of peptide surface density was determined by Two-photon microscopy analysis on a silanized glass model surface labeled with a fluorescent analog.
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30
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Carrera-Aubesart A, Defaus S, Pérez-Peinado C, Sandín D, Torrent M, Jiménez MÁ, Andreu D. Examining Topoisomers of a Snake-Venom-Derived Peptide for Improved Antimicrobial and Antitumoral Properties. Biomedicines 2022; 10:biomedicines10092110. [PMID: 36140211 PMCID: PMC9495681 DOI: 10.3390/biomedicines10092110] [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: 07/29/2022] [Revised: 08/19/2022] [Accepted: 08/21/2022] [Indexed: 11/30/2022] Open
Abstract
Ctn[15-34], the C-terminal section of crotalicidin (Ctn), a cathelicidin from a South American pit viper, is an antimicrobial and antitumoral peptide with remarkably longer stability in human serum than the parent Ctn. In this work, a set of topoisomers of both Ctn and Ctn[15-34], including the retro, enantio, and retroenantio versions, were synthesized and tested to investigate the structural requirements for activity. All topoisomers were as active as the cognate sequences against Gram-negative bacteria and tumor cells while slightly more toxic towards normal cells. More importantly, the enhanced serum stability of the D-amino-acid-containing versions suggests that such topoisomers must be preferentially considered as future antimicrobial and anticancer peptide leads.
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Affiliation(s)
- Adam Carrera-Aubesart
- Proteomics and Protein Chemistry Unit, Department of Medicine and Life Sciences, Pompeu Fabra University, 08003 Barcelona, Spain
| | - Sira Defaus
- Proteomics and Protein Chemistry Unit, Department of Medicine and Life Sciences, Pompeu Fabra University, 08003 Barcelona, Spain
- Correspondence: (S.D.); (D.A.)
| | - Clara Pérez-Peinado
- Proteomics and Protein Chemistry Unit, Department of Medicine and Life Sciences, Pompeu Fabra University, 08003 Barcelona, Spain
| | - Daniel Sandín
- Systems Biology of Infection Lab, Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, Facultat de Biociències, Universitat Autònoma de Barcelona, 08193 Bellaterra, Spain
| | - Marc Torrent
- Systems Biology of Infection Lab, Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, Facultat de Biociències, Universitat Autònoma de Barcelona, 08193 Bellaterra, Spain
| | - Maria Ángeles Jiménez
- Institute of Physical Chemistry “Rocasolano” (IQFR), Consejo Superior de Investigaciones Científicas (CSIC), 28006 Madrid, Spain
| | - David Andreu
- Proteomics and Protein Chemistry Unit, Department of Medicine and Life Sciences, Pompeu Fabra University, 08003 Barcelona, Spain
- Correspondence: (S.D.); (D.A.)
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31
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Jiao L, Dong Q, Zhai W, Zhao W, Shi P, Wu Y, Zhou X, Gao Y. A PD-L1 and VEGFR2 dual targeted peptide and its combination with irradiation for cancer immunotherapy. Pharmacol Res 2022; 182:106343. [DOI: 10.1016/j.phrs.2022.106343] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/08/2022] [Revised: 06/03/2022] [Accepted: 07/01/2022] [Indexed: 10/17/2022]
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32
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Takayama K, Hitachi K, Okamoto H, Saitoh M, Odagiri M, Ohfusa R, Shimada T, Taguchi A, Taniguchi A, Tsuchida K, Hayashi Y. Development of Myostatin Inhibitory d-Peptides to Enhance the Potency, Increasing Skeletal Muscle Mass in Mice. ACS Med Chem Lett 2022; 13:492-498. [PMID: 35300091 PMCID: PMC8919388 DOI: 10.1021/acsmedchemlett.1c00705] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/18/2021] [Accepted: 02/10/2022] [Indexed: 01/03/2023] Open
Abstract
Myostatin is a key negative regulator of skeletal muscle growth, and myostatin inhibitors are attractive tools for the treatment of muscular atrophy. Previously, we reported a series of 14-29-mer peptide myostatin inhibitors, including a potent derivative, MIPE-1686, a 16-mer N-terminal-free l-peptide with three unnatural amino acids and a propensity to form β-sheets. However, the in vivo biological stability of MIPE-1686 is a concern for its development as a drug. In the present study, to develop a more stable myostatin inhibitory d-peptide (MID), we synthesized various retro-inverso versions of a 16-mer peptide. Among these, an arginine-containing derivative, MID-35, shows a potent and equivalent in vitro myostatin inhibitory activity equivalent to that of MIPE-1686 and considerable stability against biodegradation. The in vivo potency of MID-35 to increase the tibialis anterior muscle mass in mice is significantly enhanced over that of MIPE-1686, and MID-35 can serve as a new entity for the prolonged inactivation of myostatin in skeletal muscle.
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Affiliation(s)
- Kentaro Takayama
- Department of Medicinal Chemistry, Tokyo University of Pharmacy and Life Sciences, Hachioji, Tokyo 192-0392, Japan.,Department of Environmental Biochemistry, Kyoto Pharmaceutical University, Yamashina, Kyoto 607-8414, Japan
| | - Keisuke Hitachi
- Division for Therapies against Intractable Diseases, Institute for Comprehensive Medical Science, Fujita Health University, Toyoake, Aichi 470-1192, Japan
| | - Hideyuki Okamoto
- Department of Medicinal Chemistry, Tokyo University of Pharmacy and Life Sciences, Hachioji, Tokyo 192-0392, Japan
| | - Mariko Saitoh
- Department of Medicinal Chemistry, Tokyo University of Pharmacy and Life Sciences, Hachioji, Tokyo 192-0392, Japan
| | - Miki Odagiri
- Department of Medicinal Chemistry, Tokyo University of Pharmacy and Life Sciences, Hachioji, Tokyo 192-0392, Japan
| | - Rina Ohfusa
- Department of Medicinal Chemistry, Tokyo University of Pharmacy and Life Sciences, Hachioji, Tokyo 192-0392, Japan
| | - Takahiro Shimada
- Department of Medicinal Chemistry, Tokyo University of Pharmacy and Life Sciences, Hachioji, Tokyo 192-0392, Japan
| | - Akihiro Taguchi
- Department of Medicinal Chemistry, Tokyo University of Pharmacy and Life Sciences, Hachioji, Tokyo 192-0392, Japan
| | - Atsuhiko Taniguchi
- Department of Medicinal Chemistry, Tokyo University of Pharmacy and Life Sciences, Hachioji, Tokyo 192-0392, Japan
| | - Kunihiro Tsuchida
- Division for Therapies against Intractable Diseases, Institute for Comprehensive Medical Science, Fujita Health University, Toyoake, Aichi 470-1192, Japan
| | - Yoshio Hayashi
- Department of Medicinal Chemistry, Tokyo University of Pharmacy and Life Sciences, Hachioji, Tokyo 192-0392, Japan
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33
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Gallo M, Defaus S, Andreu D. Disrupting GPCR Complexes with Smart Drug-like Peptides. Pharmaceutics 2022; 14:pharmaceutics14010161. [PMID: 35057055 PMCID: PMC8779866 DOI: 10.3390/pharmaceutics14010161] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/01/2021] [Revised: 12/30/2021] [Accepted: 01/05/2022] [Indexed: 02/04/2023] Open
Abstract
G protein-coupled receptors (GPCRs) are a superfamily of proteins classically described as monomeric transmembrane (TM) receptors. However, increasing evidence indicates that many GPCRs form higher-order assemblies made up of monomers pertaining to identical (homo) or to various (hetero) receptors. The formation and structure of these oligomers, their physiological role and possible therapeutic applications raise a variety of issues that are currently being actively explored. In this context, synthetic peptides derived from TM domains stand out as powerful tools that can be predictably targeted to disrupt GPCR oligomers, especially at the interface level, eventually impairing their action. However, despite such potential, TM-derived, GPCR-disrupting peptides often suffer from inadequate pharmacokinetic properties, such as low bioavailability, a short half-life or rapid clearance, which put into question their therapeutic relevance and promise. In this review, we provide a comprehensive overview of GPCR complexes, with an emphasis on current studies using GPCR-disrupting peptides mimicking TM domains involved in multimerization, and we also highlight recent strategies used to achieve drug-like versions of such TM peptide candidates for therapeutic application.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Sira Defaus
- Correspondence: (S.D.); (D.A.); Tel.: +34-933160868 (S.D. & D.A.)
| | - David Andreu
- Correspondence: (S.D.); (D.A.); Tel.: +34-933160868 (S.D. & D.A.)
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34
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Preston GW. Different directions for retro-inverso peptides. J Pept Sci 2021; 28:e3384. [PMID: 34889485 DOI: 10.1002/psc.3384] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/30/2021] [Revised: 11/11/2021] [Accepted: 11/11/2021] [Indexed: 11/07/2022]
Abstract
Retro-inverso peptides are reversed sequences of mirror-image amino acid residues. Synthetic molecules of this type have long been considered potential mimics of functional peptides. This Peptide Highlights article examines some recent applications of the retro-inverso transformation at the interface of peptide chemistry and medicine.
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Affiliation(s)
- George W Preston
- Stoller Biomarker Discovery Centre, Division of Cancer Sciences, School of Medical Sciences, Faculty of Biology, Medicine and Health, The University of Manchester, Manchester, UK.,Stem Cell and Leukaemia Proteomics Laboratory, Manchester Cancer Research Centre, The University of Manchester, Manchester, UK
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35
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Krishnan M, Choi J, Jang A, Yoon YK, Kim Y. Antiseptic 9-Meric Peptide with Potency against Carbapenem-Resistant Acinetobacter baumannii Infection. Int J Mol Sci 2021; 22:12520. [PMID: 34830401 PMCID: PMC8621208 DOI: 10.3390/ijms222212520] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/17/2021] [Revised: 11/17/2021] [Accepted: 11/17/2021] [Indexed: 11/18/2022] Open
Abstract
Carbapenem-resistant A. baumannii (CRAB) infection can cause acute host reactions that lead to high-fatality sepsis, making it important to develop new therapeutic options. Previously, we developed a short 9-meric peptide, Pro9-3D, with significant antibacterial and cytotoxic effects. In this study, we attempted to produce safer peptide antibiotics against CRAB by reversing the parent sequence to generate R-Pro9-3 and R-Pro9-3D. Among the tested peptides, R-Pro9-3D had the most rapid and effective antibacterial activity against Gram-negative bacteria, particularly clinical CRAB isolates. Analyses of antimicrobial mechanisms based on lipopolysaccharide (LPS)-neutralization, LPS binding, and membrane depolarization, as well as SEM ultrastructural investigations, revealed that R-Pro9-3D binds strongly to LPS and impairs the membrane integrity of CRAB by effectively permeabilizing its outer membrane. R-Pro9-3D was also less cytotoxic and had better proteolytic stability than Pro9-3D and killed biofilm forming CRAB. As an LPS-neutralizing peptide, R-Pro9-3D effectively reduced LPS-induced pro-inflammatory cytokine levels in RAW 264.7 cells. The antiseptic abilities of R-Pro9-3D were also investigated using a mouse model of CRAB-induced sepsis, which revealed that R-Pro9-3D reduced multiple organ damage and attenuated systemic infection by acting as an antibacterial and immunosuppressive agent. Thus, R-Pro9-3D displays potential as a novel antiseptic peptide for treating Gram-negative CRAB infections.
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Affiliation(s)
- Manigandan Krishnan
- Department of Bioscience and Biotechnology, Konkuk University, Seoul 05029, Korea; (M.K.); (J.C.); (A.J.)
| | - Joonhyeok Choi
- Department of Bioscience and Biotechnology, Konkuk University, Seoul 05029, Korea; (M.K.); (J.C.); (A.J.)
| | - Ahjin Jang
- Department of Bioscience and Biotechnology, Konkuk University, Seoul 05029, Korea; (M.K.); (J.C.); (A.J.)
| | - Young Kyung Yoon
- Department of Internal Medicine, Division of Infectious Diseases, College of Medicine, Korea University Anam Hospital, Korea University, Seoul 02841, Korea;
| | - Yangmee Kim
- Department of Bioscience and Biotechnology, Konkuk University, Seoul 05029, Korea; (M.K.); (J.C.); (A.J.)
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