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Wang X, Luo H, Peng X, Chen J. Spider and scorpion knottins targeting voltage-gated sodium ion channels in pain signaling. Biochem Pharmacol 2024:116465. [PMID: 39102991 DOI: 10.1016/j.bcp.2024.116465] [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: 05/02/2024] [Revised: 07/30/2024] [Accepted: 08/02/2024] [Indexed: 08/07/2024]
Abstract
In sensory neurons that transmit pain signals, whether acute or chronic, voltage-gated sodium channels (VGSCs) are crucial for regulating excitability. NaV1.1, NaV1.3, NaV1.6, NaV1.7, NaV1.8, and NaV1.9 have been demonstrated and defined their functional roles in pain signaling based on their biophysical properties and distinct patterns of expression in each subtype of sensory neurons. Scorpions and spiders are traditional Chinese medicinal materials, belonging to the arachnid class. Most of the studied species of them have evolved venom peptides that exhibit a wide variety of knottins specifically targeting VGSCs with subtype selectivity and conformational specificity. This review provides an overview on the exquisite knottins from scorpion and spider venoms targeting pain-related NaV channels, describing the sequences and the structural features as well as molecular determinants that influence their selectivity on special subtype and at particular conformation, with an aim for the development of novel research tools on NaV channels and analgesics with minimal adverse effects.
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Affiliation(s)
- Xiting Wang
- College of Bioscience and Biotechnology, Hunan Agricultural University, Changsha, Hunan 410128, China
| | - Huan Luo
- College of Bioscience and Biotechnology, Hunan Agricultural University, Changsha, Hunan 410128, China
| | - Xiaozhen Peng
- School of Public Health & Laboratory Medicine, Hunan University of Medicine, Huaihua 418000, China.
| | - Jinjun Chen
- College of Bioscience and Biotechnology, Hunan Agricultural University, Changsha, Hunan 410128, China; Hunan Provincial Engineering Technology Research Center for Cell Mechanics and Function Analysis, Changsha 418000, China.
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Le Franc A, Da Silva A, Lepetre-Mouelhi S. Nanomedicine and voltage-gated sodium channel blockers in pain management: a game changer or a lost cause? Drug Deliv Transl Res 2024; 14:2112-2145. [PMID: 38861139 DOI: 10.1007/s13346-024-01615-9] [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] [Accepted: 04/25/2024] [Indexed: 06/12/2024]
Abstract
Pain, a complex and debilitating condition affecting millions globally, is a significant concern, especially in the context of post-operative recovery. This comprehensive review explores the complexity of pain and its global impact, emphasizing the modulation of voltage-gated sodium channels (VGSC or NaV channels) as a promising avenue for pain management with the aim of reducing reliance on opioids. The article delves into the role of specific NaV isoforms, particularly NaV 1.7, NaV 1.8, and NaV 1.9, in pain process and discusses the development of sodium channel blockers to target these isoforms precisely. Traditional local anesthetics and selective NaV isoform inhibitors, despite showing varying efficacy in pain management, face challenges in systemic distribution and potential side effects. The review highlights the potential of nanomedicine in improving the delivery of local anesthetics, toxins and selective NaV isoform inhibitors for a targeted and sustained release at the site of pain. This innovative strategy seeks to improve drug bioavailability, minimize systemic exposure, and optimize therapeutic outcomes, holding significant promise for secure pain management and enhancing the quality of life for individuals recovering from surgical procedures or suffering from chronic pain.
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Affiliation(s)
- Adélaïde Le Franc
- Université Paris-Saclay, CNRS, Institut Galien Paris-Saclay, 91400, Orsay, France
| | - Alexandre Da Silva
- Université Paris-Saclay, CNRS, Institut Galien Paris-Saclay, 91400, Orsay, France
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Zhang K, Gao M, Xue B, Kamau PM, Lai R, Luo L. Wikstroemia indica (L.) C. A. Mey. Exerts analgesic activity by inhibiting Na V1.7 channel. JOURNAL OF ETHNOPHARMACOLOGY 2024; 320:117392. [PMID: 37949328 DOI: 10.1016/j.jep.2023.117392] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/07/2023] [Revised: 11/02/2023] [Accepted: 11/03/2023] [Indexed: 11/12/2023]
Abstract
ETHNOPHARMACOLOGICAL RELEVANCE Wikstroemia indica (L.) C. A. Mey. is traditionally used for the treatment of gastrointestinal disorders, respiratory illnesses, skin infections, and inflammatory conditions. Despite extensive evidence of its biological potential, including antipyretic, antimicrobial, antifungal, anti-inflammatory, and diuretic properties, there are currently no reports indicating its analgesic effects. AIM OF THE STUDY Crude extracts from W. indica stems were examined for anti-nociceptive activity. Additionally, an in-depth investigation was conducted to uncover the molecular basis for the possible analgesic phenomenon. MATERIALS AND METHODS W. indica stems were subjected to ethanol extraction. To evaluate the in vivo analgesic activity, both chemical and physical-induced pain models were employed. Additionally, single-cell electrophysiological recordings were performed on human embryonic kidney 293T (HEK293T) cells expressing NaV1.7 channel. RESULTS Crude extracts derived from W. indica exhibited significant efficacy in mitigating the pain sensation, as evidenced by their substantial effects in both acetic acid-induced and heat-induced pain models. Further screening unveiled osthenol as a key bioactive compound responsible for mediating the analgesic properties of W. indica. Osthenol directly interacts with the pore domain of NaV1.7 channels, leading to channel inhibition. Importantly, this interaction is independent of any changes in the channel gating modifier domain. CONCLUSION Both W. indica and osthenol demonstrate potential as effective anti-nociceptive agents in preclinical studies. Their analgesic effects are likely achieved by inhibiting the NaV1.7 channel, which is crucial in pain initiation, transmission, and modulation. These results elucidate the molecular basis of the W. indica as a pain-relieving medication. Additionally, osthenol holds great potential in advancing the development of anti-nociceptive drugs targeting the NaV1.7 channel.
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Affiliation(s)
- Keyi Zhang
- School of Molecular Medicine, Hangzhou Institute for Advanced Study, University of Chinese Academy of Sciences, Hangzhou, 310000, China; Key Laboratory of Animal Models and Human Disease Mechanisms of the Chinese Academy of Sciences/Key Laboratory of Bioactive Peptides of Yunnan Province, KIZ-CUHK Joint Laboratory of Bioresources and Molecular Research in Common Diseases, National Resource Center for Non-Human Primates, Kunming Primate Research Center, National Research Facility for Phenotypic & Genetic Analysis of Model Animals (Primate Facility), Sino-African Joint Research Center, and Engineering Laboratory of Peptides, Kunming Institute of Zoology, Kunming, 650107, China; Institute of Chemistry, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing, 100190, China
| | - Min Gao
- Key Laboratory of Animal Models and Human Disease Mechanisms of the Chinese Academy of Sciences/Key Laboratory of Bioactive Peptides of Yunnan Province, KIZ-CUHK Joint Laboratory of Bioresources and Molecular Research in Common Diseases, National Resource Center for Non-Human Primates, Kunming Primate Research Center, National Research Facility for Phenotypic & Genetic Analysis of Model Animals (Primate Facility), Sino-African Joint Research Center, and Engineering Laboratory of Peptides, Kunming Institute of Zoology, Kunming, 650107, China
| | - Beiru Xue
- Key Laboratory of Animal Models and Human Disease Mechanisms of the Chinese Academy of Sciences/Key Laboratory of Bioactive Peptides of Yunnan Province, KIZ-CUHK Joint Laboratory of Bioresources and Molecular Research in Common Diseases, National Resource Center for Non-Human Primates, Kunming Primate Research Center, National Research Facility for Phenotypic & Genetic Analysis of Model Animals (Primate Facility), Sino-African Joint Research Center, and Engineering Laboratory of Peptides, Kunming Institute of Zoology, Kunming, 650107, China; Department of Biopharmaceutical Sciences, College of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Soochow University, Suzhou, Jiangsu, 215123, China
| | - Peter Muiruri Kamau
- Key Laboratory of Animal Models and Human Disease Mechanisms of the Chinese Academy of Sciences/Key Laboratory of Bioactive Peptides of Yunnan Province, KIZ-CUHK Joint Laboratory of Bioresources and Molecular Research in Common Diseases, National Resource Center for Non-Human Primates, Kunming Primate Research Center, National Research Facility for Phenotypic & Genetic Analysis of Model Animals (Primate Facility), Sino-African Joint Research Center, and Engineering Laboratory of Peptides, Kunming Institute of Zoology, Kunming, 650107, China; Kunming College of Life Science, University of Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing, 100049, China
| | - Ren Lai
- School of Molecular Medicine, Hangzhou Institute for Advanced Study, University of Chinese Academy of Sciences, Hangzhou, 310000, China; Key Laboratory of Animal Models and Human Disease Mechanisms of the Chinese Academy of Sciences/Key Laboratory of Bioactive Peptides of Yunnan Province, KIZ-CUHK Joint Laboratory of Bioresources and Molecular Research in Common Diseases, National Resource Center for Non-Human Primates, Kunming Primate Research Center, National Research Facility for Phenotypic & Genetic Analysis of Model Animals (Primate Facility), Sino-African Joint Research Center, and Engineering Laboratory of Peptides, Kunming Institute of Zoology, Kunming, 650107, China; Kunming College of Life Science, University of Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing, 100049, China.
| | - Lei Luo
- Key Laboratory of Animal Models and Human Disease Mechanisms of the Chinese Academy of Sciences/Key Laboratory of Bioactive Peptides of Yunnan Province, KIZ-CUHK Joint Laboratory of Bioresources and Molecular Research in Common Diseases, National Resource Center for Non-Human Primates, Kunming Primate Research Center, National Research Facility for Phenotypic & Genetic Analysis of Model Animals (Primate Facility), Sino-African Joint Research Center, and Engineering Laboratory of Peptides, Kunming Institute of Zoology, Kunming, 650107, China.
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Deuis JR, Kumble S, Keramidas A, Ragnarsson L, Simons C, Pais L, White SM, Vetter I. Erythromelalgia caused by the missense mutation p.Arg220Pro in an alternatively spliced exon of SCN9A (NaV1.7). Hum Mol Genet 2024; 33:103-109. [PMID: 37721535 PMCID: PMC10772039 DOI: 10.1093/hmg/ddad152] [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: 07/13/2023] [Revised: 09/06/2023] [Accepted: 09/11/2023] [Indexed: 09/19/2023] Open
Abstract
Erythromelalgia (EM), is a familial pain syndrome characterized by episodic 'burning' pain, warmth, and erythema. EM is caused by monoallelic variants in SCN9A, which encodes the voltage-gated sodium channel (NaV) NaV1.7. Over 25 different SCN9A mutations attributed to EM have been described to date, all identified in the SCN9A transcript utilizing exon 6N. Here we report a novel SCN9A missense variant identified in seven related individuals with stereotypic episodes of bilateral lower limb pain presenting in childhood. The variant, XM_011511617.3:c.659G>C;p.(Arg220Pro), resides in the exon 6A of SCN9A, an exon previously shown to be selectively incorporated by developmentally regulated alternative splicing. The mutation is located in the voltage-sensing S4 segment of domain I, which is important for regulating channel activation. Functional analysis showed the p.Arg220Pro mutation altered voltage-dependent activation and delayed channel inactivation, consistent with a NaV1.7 gain-of-function molecular phenotype. These results demonstrate that alternatively spliced isoforms of SCN9A should be included in all genomic testing of EM.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jennifer R Deuis
- Institute for Molecular Bioscience, 306 Carmody Road, The University of Queensland, St Lucia, QLD 4072, Australia
| | - Smitha Kumble
- Murdoch Children's Research Institute, 50 Flemington Road, Royal Children’s Hospital, Parkville, VIC 3052, Australia
- Department of Paediatrics, The University of Melbourne, 50 Flemington Road, Parkville, VIC 3052, Australia
| | - Angelo Keramidas
- Institute for Molecular Bioscience, 306 Carmody Road, The University of Queensland, St Lucia, QLD 4072, Australia
| | - Lotten Ragnarsson
- Institute for Molecular Bioscience, 306 Carmody Road, The University of Queensland, St Lucia, QLD 4072, Australia
| | - Cas Simons
- Murdoch Children's Research Institute, 50 Flemington Road, Royal Children’s Hospital, Parkville, VIC 3052, Australia
| | - Lynn Pais
- Program in Medical and Population Genetics, Broad Institute of MIT and Harvard, 415 Main Street, Cambridge, MA 02142, United States
| | - Susan M White
- Department of Paediatrics, The University of Melbourne, 50 Flemington Road, Parkville, VIC 3052, Australia
- Victorian Clinical Genetics Services, Royal Children's Hospital, 50 Flemington Road, Parkville, VIC 3052, Australia
| | - Irina Vetter
- Institute for Molecular Bioscience, 306 Carmody Road, The University of Queensland, St Lucia, QLD 4072, Australia
- School of Pharmacy, 20 Cornwall Street, The University of Queensland, Woolloongabba, QLD 4102, Australia
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Makau CM, Towett PK, Kanui TI, Abelson KSP. Effects of inhibition of Nav1.3, Nav1.7, and Nav1.8 channels on pain-related behavior in Speke's hinge-back tortoise (Kinixys spekii). J Neurosci Res 2024; 102:e25274. [PMID: 38284848 DOI: 10.1002/jnr.25274] [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: 06/01/2023] [Revised: 10/10/2023] [Accepted: 10/25/2023] [Indexed: 01/30/2024]
Abstract
Comparative studies using reptiles as experimental animals in pain research could expand our knowledge on the evolution and adaptation of pain mechanisms. Currently, there are no data reported on the involvement of voltage-gated sodium ion channels on nociception in reptiles. The aim of this study was to investigate the involvement of Nav1.3, Nav1.7, and Nav1.8 ion channels in nociception in Speke's hinge-back tortoise. ICA 121341 (selective blocker for Nav1.1/Nav1.3), NAV 26 (selective blocker for Nav1.7), and A803467 (selective blocker for Nav1.8) were used to investigate the involvement of Nav1.3, Nav1.7, and Nav1.8, respectively. The chemicals were administered intracoelomically thirty minutes before the start of nociceptive tests. ICA 121341 did not cause a significant decrease in the time spent in pain-related behavior in all the nociceptive tests. NAV 26 and A8034667 caused a statistically significant decrease in the mean time spent in pain-related behavior in the formalin and capsaicin tests. Only A803467 caused a statistically significant increase in the mean latency to pain-related behavior in the hot plate test. NAV 26 and A803467 had no observable side effects. In conclusion, Nav1.7 and Nav1.8 are involved in the processing of chemically induced inflammatory pain in Speke's hinge back tortoise. In addition, Nav1.8 are also significantly involved in the development of thermal-induced pain-related behavior in this species of reptile. However, our results do not support the involvement of Nav1.3 on the development of chemical or thermal induced pain-related behavior in the Speke's hinge back tortoise.
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Affiliation(s)
- Christopher M Makau
- Department of Experimental Medicine, Faculty of Health and Medical Sciences, University of Copenhagen, Copenhagen, Denmark
- Department of Veterinary Anatomy and Physiology, University of Nairobi, Nairobi, Kenya
| | - Philemon K Towett
- Department of Veterinary Anatomy and Physiology, University of Nairobi, Nairobi, Kenya
| | - Titus I Kanui
- School of Agriculture and Veterinary Sciences, South Eastern Kenya University, Kitui, Kenya
| | - Klas S P Abelson
- Department of Experimental Medicine, Faculty of Health and Medical Sciences, University of Copenhagen, Copenhagen, Denmark
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6
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Becker J, Effraim PR, Dib-Hajj S, Rittner HL. Lessons learned in translating pain knowledge into practice. Pain Rep 2023; 8:e1100. [PMID: 37928204 PMCID: PMC10624476 DOI: 10.1097/pr9.0000000000001100] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/16/2022] [Accepted: 05/05/2023] [Indexed: 11/07/2023] Open
Abstract
Introduction During the past 2 decades, basic research deciphering the underlying mechanisms of nociception and chronic pain was thought to finally step beyond opioids and nonsteroidals and provide patients with new analgesics. But apart from calcitonin gene-related peptide antagonists, nothing arrived in hands of clinicians. Objectives To present existing evidence of 3 representative target molecules in the development of novel pain treatment that, so far, did not result in approved drugs. Methods This Clinical Update aligns with the 2022 IASP Global Year Translating Pain Knowledge into Practice and selectively reviews best available evidence and practice. Results We highlight 3 targets: a ion channel, a neuronal growth factor, and a neuropeptide to explore why these drug targets have been dropped in clinical phase II-III trials. Antibodies to nerve growth factor had very good effects in musculoskeletal pain but resulted into more patients requiring joint replacements. Blockers of NaV1.7 were often not effective enough-at least if patients were not stratified. Blockers of neurokinin receptor were similarly not successful enough. In general, failure was most often to the result of a lack of effect and to a lesser extend because of unexpected severe side effects. However, all studies and trials lead to an enormous move in the scientific community to better preclinical models and testing as well as revised methods to molecularly phenotype and stratify patients. Conclusion All stakeholders in the process can help in the future: better preclinical studies, phenotyping and stratifying patients, and participation in clinical trials to move the discovery of analgesics forward.
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Affiliation(s)
- Juliane Becker
- Department of Anesthesiology, Intensive Care, Emergency and Pain Medicine, Center for Interdisciplinary Pain Medicine, University Hospital Würzburg, Würzburg, Germany
| | - Philip R. Effraim
- Department of Anesthesiology, Yale School of Medicine, New Haven, CT, USA
- Department of Neurology, Center for Neuroscience & Regeneration Research, Yale School of Medicine, New Haven, CT, USA
| | - Sulayman Dib-Hajj
- Department of Neurology, Center for Neuroscience & Regeneration Research, Yale School of Medicine, New Haven, CT, USA
- Rehabilitation Research Center, VA Connecticut Healthcare System, West Haven, CT, USA
| | - Heike L. Rittner
- Department of Anesthesiology, Intensive Care, Emergency and Pain Medicine, Center for Interdisciplinary Pain Medicine, University Hospital Würzburg, Würzburg, Germany
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Bian Y, Tuo J, He L, Li W, Li S, Chu H, Zhao Y. Voltage-gated sodium channels in cancer and their specific inhibitors. Pathol Res Pract 2023; 251:154909. [PMID: 37939447 DOI: 10.1016/j.prp.2023.154909] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/19/2023] [Revised: 10/23/2023] [Accepted: 10/24/2023] [Indexed: 11/10/2023]
Abstract
Voltage-gated sodium channels (VGSCs) participate in generating and spreading action potentials in electrically excited cells such as neurons and muscle fibers. Abnormal expression of VGSCs has been observed in various types of tumors, while they are either not expressed or expressed at a low level in the matching normal tissue. Hence, this abnormal expression suggests that VGSCs confer some advantage or viability on tumor cells, making them a valuable indicator for identifying tumor cells. In addition, overexpression of VGSCs increased the ability of cancer cells to metastasize and invade, as well as correlated with the metastatic behavior of different cancers. Therefore, blocking VGSCs presents a new strategy for the treatment of cancers. A portion of this review summarizes the structure and function of VGSCs and also describes the correlation between VGSCs and cancers. Most importantly, we provide an overview of current research on various subtype-selective VGSC inhibitors and updates on ongoing clinical studies.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yuan Bian
- School of Life Science and Bio-Pharmaceutics, Shenyang Pharmaceutical University, Shenyang, Liaoning 110016, PR China
| | - Jiale Tuo
- School of Life Science and Bio-Pharmaceutics, Shenyang Pharmaceutical University, Shenyang, Liaoning 110016, PR China
| | - Liangpeng He
- School of Life Science and Bio-Pharmaceutics, Shenyang Pharmaceutical University, Shenyang, Liaoning 110016, PR China
| | - Wenwen Li
- School of Life Science and Bio-Pharmaceutics, Shenyang Pharmaceutical University, Shenyang, Liaoning 110016, PR China
| | - Shangxiao Li
- School of Medical Devices, Shenyang Pharmaceutical University, Benxi, Liaoning 117004, PR China
| | - Huiying Chu
- Laboratory of Molecular Modeling and Design, State Key Laboratory of Molecular Reaction Dynamics, Dalian Institute of Chemical Physics, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Dalian, China
| | - Yongshan Zhao
- School of Life Science and Bio-Pharmaceutics, Shenyang Pharmaceutical University, Shenyang, Liaoning 110016, PR China.
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Salvage SC, Rahman T, Eagles DA, Rees JS, King GF, Huang CL, Jackson AP. The β3-subunit modulates the effect of venom peptides ProTx-II and OD1 on Na V 1.7 gating. J Cell Physiol 2023; 238:1354-1367. [PMID: 37042220 PMCID: PMC10953403 DOI: 10.1002/jcp.31018] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/12/2022] [Revised: 03/13/2023] [Accepted: 03/15/2023] [Indexed: 04/13/2023]
Abstract
The voltage-gated sodium channel NaV 1.7 is involved in various pain phenotypes and is physiologically regulated by the NaV -β3-subunit. Venom toxins ProTx-II and OD1 modulate NaV 1.7 channel function and may be useful as therapeutic agents and/or research tools. Here, we use patch-clamp recordings to investigate how the β3-subunit can influence and modulate the toxin-mediated effects on NaV 1.7 function, and we propose a putative binding mode of OD1 on NaV 1.7 to rationalise its activating effects. The inhibitor ProTx-II slowed the rate of NaV 1.7 activation, whilst the activator OD1 reduced the rate of fast inactivation and accelerated recovery from inactivation. The β3-subunit partially abrogated these effects. OD1 induced a hyperpolarising shift in the V1/2 of steady-state activation, which was not observed in the presence of β3. Consequently, OD1-treated NaV 1.7 exhibited an enhanced window current compared with OD1-treated NaV 1.7-β3 complex. We identify candidate OD1 residues that are likely to prevent the upward movement of the DIV S4 helix and thus impede fast inactivation. The binding sites for each of the toxins and the predicted location of the β3-subunit on the NaV 1.7 channel are distinct. Therefore, we infer that the β3-subunit influences the interaction of toxins with NaV 1.7 via indirect allosteric mechanisms. The enhanced window current shown by OD1-treated NaV 1.7 compared with OD1-treated NaV 1.7-β3 is discussed in the context of differing cellular expressions of NaV 1.7 and the β3-subunit in dorsal root ganglion (DRG) neurons. We propose that β3, as the native binding partner for NaV 1.7 in DRG neurons, should be included during screening of molecules against NaV 1.7 in relevant analgesic discovery campaigns.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Taufiq Rahman
- Department of PharmacologyUniversity of CambridgeCambridgeUK
| | - David A. Eagles
- Institute of Molecular BioscienceUniversity of QueenslandBrisbaneQLDAustralia
- Australian Research Council Centre of Excellence for Innovations in Peptide and Protein ScienceThe University of QueenslandBrisbaneQLDAustralia
| | - Johanna S. Rees
- Department of BiochemistryUniversity of CambridgeCambridgeUK
- Present address:
Babraham Research CampusPetMedix Ltd.CambridgeUK
| | - Glenn F. King
- Institute of Molecular BioscienceUniversity of QueenslandBrisbaneQLDAustralia
- Australian Research Council Centre of Excellence for Innovations in Peptide and Protein ScienceThe University of QueenslandBrisbaneQLDAustralia
| | - Christopher L‐H. Huang
- Department of BiochemistryUniversity of CambridgeCambridgeUK
- Department of Physiology, Development and NeuroscienceUniversity of CambridgeCambridgeUK
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Na V1.7 Channel Blocker [Ala 5, Phe 6, Leu 26, Arg 28]GpTx-1 Attenuates CFA-induced Inflammatory Hypersensitivity in Rats via Endogenous Enkephalin Mechanism. THE JOURNAL OF PAIN 2022; 24:840-859. [PMID: 36586660 DOI: 10.1016/j.jpain.2022.12.012] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/14/2022] [Revised: 12/17/2022] [Accepted: 12/21/2022] [Indexed: 12/30/2022]
Abstract
Venom-derived NaV1.7 channel blockers have promising prospects in pain management. The 34-residue tarantula peptide GpTx-1 is a potent NaV1.7 channel blocker. Its powerful analog [Ala5, Phe6, Leu26, Arg28]GpTx-1 (GpTx-1-71) displayed excellent NaV1.7 selectivity and analgesic properties in mice. The current study aimed to elucidate the anti-hyperalgesic activities of GpTx-1-71 in inflammatory pain and reveal the underlying mechanisms. Our results demonstrated that intrathecal and intraplantar injections of GpTx-1-71 dose-dependently attenuated CFA-induced inflammatory hypersensitivity in rats. Moreover, GpTx-1-71-induced anti-hyperalgesia was significantly reduced by opioid receptor antagonists and the enkephalin antibody and diminished in proenkephalin (Penk) gene knockout animals. Consistently, GpTx-1-71 treatment increased the enkephalin level in the spinal dorsal horn and promoted the Penk transcription and enkephalin release in primary dorsal root ganglion (DRG) neurons, wherein sodium played a crucial role in these processes. Mass spectrometry analysis revealed that GpTx-1-71 mainly promoted the secretion of Met-enkephalin but not Leu-enkephalin from DRG neurons. In addition, the combination of subtherapeutic Met-enkephalin and GpTx-1-71 produced synergistic anti-hyperalgesia in CFA-induced inflammatory hypersensitivity. These findings suggest that the endogenous enkephalin pathway is essential for GpTx-1-71-induced spinal and peripheral analgesia in inflammatory pain. PERSPECTIVE: This article presents a possible pharmacological mechanism underlying NaV1.7 blocker-induced analgesia in inflammatory pain, which helps us to better understand and develop venom-based painkillers for incurable pain.
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Structural basis for Na V1.7 inhibition by pore blockers. Nat Struct Mol Biol 2022; 29:1208-1216. [PMID: 36424527 DOI: 10.1038/s41594-022-00860-1] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/04/2022] [Accepted: 10/11/2022] [Indexed: 11/26/2022]
Abstract
Voltage-gated sodium channel NaV1.7 plays essential roles in pain and odor perception. NaV1.7 variants cause pain disorders. Accordingly, NaV1.7 has elicited extensive attention in developing new analgesics. Here we present cryo-EM structures of human NaV1.7/β1/β2 complexed with inhibitors XEN907, TC-N1752 and NaV1.7-IN2, explaining specific binding sites and modulation mechanism for the pore blockers. These inhibitors bind in the central cavity blocking ion permeation, but engage different parts of the cavity wall. XEN907 directly causes α- to π-helix transition of DIV-S6 helix, which tightens the fast inactivation gate. TC-N1752 induces π-helix transition of DII-S6 helix mediated by a conserved asparagine on DIII-S6, which closes the activation gate. NaV1.7-IN2 serves as a pore blocker without causing conformational change. Electrophysiological results demonstrate that XEN907 and TC-N1752 stabilize NaV1.7 in inactivated state and delay the recovery from inactivation. Our results provide structural framework for NaV1.7 modulation by pore blockers, and important implications for developing subtype-selective analgesics.
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Venom-derived pain-causing toxins: insights into sensory neuron function and pain mechanisms. Pain 2022; 163:S46-S56. [DOI: 10.1097/j.pain.0000000000002701] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/04/2022] [Accepted: 05/19/2022] [Indexed: 11/25/2022]
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Labau JIR, Andelic M, Faber CG, Waxman SG, Lauria G, Dib-Hajj SD. Recent advances for using human induced-pluripotent stem cells as pain-in-a-dish models of neuropathic pain. Exp Neurol 2022; 358:114223. [PMID: 36100046 DOI: 10.1016/j.expneurol.2022.114223] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/06/2022] [Revised: 08/15/2022] [Accepted: 09/05/2022] [Indexed: 11/28/2022]
Abstract
Neuropathic pain is amongst the most common non-communicable disorders and the poor effectiveness of current treatment is an unmet need. Although pain is a universal experience, there are significant inter-individual phenotypic differences. Developing models that can accurately recapitulate the clinical pain features is crucial to better understand underlying pathophysiological mechanisms and find innovative treatments. Current data from heterologous expression systems that investigate properties of specific molecules involved in pain signaling, and from animal models, show limited success with their translation into the development of novel treatments for pain. This is in part because they do not recapitulate the native environment in which a particular molecule functions, and due to species-specific differences in the properties of several key molecules that are involved in pain signaling. The limited availability of post-mortem tissue, in particular dorsal root ganglia (DRG), has hampered research using human cells in pre-clinical studies. Human induced-pluripotent stem cells (iPSCs) have emerged as an exciting alternative platform to study patient-specific diseases. Sensory neurons that are derived from iPSCs (iPSC-SNs) have provided new avenues towards elucidating peripheral pathophysiological mechanisms, the potential for development of personalized treatments, and as a cell-based system for high-throughput screening for discovering novel analgesics. Nevertheless, reprogramming and differentiation protocols to obtain nociceptors have mostly yielded immature homogenous cell populations that do not recapitulate the heterogeneity of native sensory neurons. To close the gap between native human tissue and iPSCs, alternative strategies have been developed. We will review here recent developments in differentiating iPSC-SNs and their use in pre-clinical translational studies. Direct conversion of stem cells into the cells of interest has provided a more cost- and time-saving method to improve reproducibility and diversity of sensory cell types. Furthermore, multi-cellular strategies that mimic in vivo microenvironments for cell maturation, by improving cell contact and communication (co-cultures), reproducing the organ complexity and architecture (three-dimensional organoid), and providing iPSCs with the full spatiotemporal context and nutrients needed for acquiring a mature phenotype (xenotransplantation), have led to functional sensory neuron-like systems. Finally, this review touches on novel prospective strategies, including fluorescent-tracking to select the differentiated neurons of relevance, and dynamic clamp, an electrophysiological method that allows direct manipulation of ionic conductances that are missing in iPSC-SNs.
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Affiliation(s)
- Julie I R Labau
- Department of Neurology, Yale University School of Medicine, New Haven, CT, USA; Center for Neuroscience & Regeneration Research, Yale University, West Haven, CT, USA; Department of Toxicogenomics, Clinical Genomics, Maastricht University Medical Centre+, Maastricht, the Netherlands; School of Mental Health and Neuroscience, Maastricht University, Maastricht, the Netherlands
| | - Mirna Andelic
- School of Mental Health and Neuroscience, Maastricht University, Maastricht, the Netherlands; Department of Neurology, Neuroalgology Unit, Fondazione IRCCS Istituto Neurologico "Carlo Besta", Milan, Italy
| | - Catharina G Faber
- School of Mental Health and Neuroscience, Maastricht University, Maastricht, the Netherlands
| | - Stephen G Waxman
- Department of Neurology, Yale University School of Medicine, New Haven, CT, USA; Center for Neuroscience & Regeneration Research, Yale University, West Haven, CT, USA
| | - Giuseppe Lauria
- Department of Clinical Neurosciences, Fondazione IRCCS Istituto Neurologico "Carlo Besta", Milan, Italy; Department of Medical Biotechnology and Translational Medicine, University of Milan, Italy.
| | - Sulayman D Dib-Hajj
- Department of Neurology, Yale University School of Medicine, New Haven, CT, USA; Center for Neuroscience & Regeneration Research, Yale University, West Haven, CT, USA.
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13
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Kitano Y, Shinozuka T. Inhibition of Na V1.7: the possibility of ideal analgesics. RSC Med Chem 2022; 13:895-920. [PMID: 36092147 PMCID: PMC9384491 DOI: 10.1039/d2md00081d] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/09/2022] [Accepted: 07/25/2022] [Indexed: 08/03/2023] Open
Abstract
The selective inhibition of NaV1.7 is a promising strategy for developing novel analgesic agents with fewer adverse effects. Although the potent selective inhibition of NaV1.7 has been recently achieved, multiple NaV1.7 inhibitors failed in clinical development. In this review, the relationship between preclinical in vivo efficacy and NaV1.7 coverage among three types of voltage-gated sodium channel (VGSC) inhibitors, namely conventional VGSC inhibitors, sulphonamides and acyl sulphonamides, is discussed. By demonstrating the PK/PD discrepancy of preclinical studies versus in vivo models and clinical results, the potential reasons behind the disconnect between preclinical results and clinical outcomes are discussed together with strategies for developing ideal analgesic agents.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yutaka Kitano
- R&D Division, Daiichi Sankyo Co., Ltd. 1-2-58 Hiromachi Shinagawa-ku Tokyo 140-8710 Japan
| | - Tsuyoshi Shinozuka
- R&D Division, Daiichi Sankyo Co., Ltd. 1-2-58 Hiromachi Shinagawa-ku Tokyo 140-8710 Japan
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14
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Klasfauseweh T, Israel MR, Ragnarsson L, Cox JJ, Durek T, Carter DA, Leffler A, Vetter I, Deuis JR. Low potency inhibition of NaV1.7 by externally applied QX-314 via a depolarizing shift in the voltage-dependence of activation. Eur J Pharmacol 2022; 925:175013. [DOI: 10.1016/j.ejphar.2022.175013] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/26/2021] [Revised: 04/11/2022] [Accepted: 05/04/2022] [Indexed: 11/03/2022]
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15
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Chen Y, Xu E, Sang M, Wang Z, Zhang Y, Ye J, Zhou Q, Zhao C, Hu C, Lu W, Cao P. Makatoxin-3, a thermostable Nav1.7 agonist from Buthus martensii Karsch (BmK) scorpion elicits non-narcotic analgesia in inflammatory pain models. JOURNAL OF ETHNOPHARMACOLOGY 2022; 288:114998. [PMID: 35063590 DOI: 10.1016/j.jep.2022.114998] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/17/2021] [Revised: 12/31/2021] [Accepted: 01/11/2022] [Indexed: 06/14/2023]
Abstract
ETHNOPHARMACOLOGICAL RELEVANCE Chronic pain management represents a serious healthcare problem worldwide. The use of opioid analgesics for pain has always been hampered by their side effects; in particular, the addictive liability associated with chronic use. Finding a morphine replacement has been a long-standing goal in the field of analgesia. In traditional Chinese medicine, processed Buthus martensii Karsch (BmK) scorpion has been used as a painkiller to treat chronic inflammatory arthritis and spondylitis, so called "Scorpio-analgesia". However, the molecular basis and the underline mechanism for the Scorpio-analgesia are still unclear. AIM OF THE STUDY The study aims to investigate the molecular basis of "Scorpio analgesia" and identify novel analgesics from BmK scorpion. MATERIALS AND METHODS In this study, the analgesic abilities were determined using formalin-, acetic acid- and complete Freund's adjuvant-induced pain models. The effect of BmK venom and processed BmK venom on Nav1.7 were detected by whole-cell voltage-clamp recordings on HEK293-hNav1.7 stable cell line. Action potentials in Dorsal root ganglion (DRG) neurons induced by Makatoxin-3-R58A were recorded in current-clamp mode. The content of Makatoxin-3 was detected using competitive enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay based on the Makatoxin-3 antibody. High performance liquid chromatography, western blot and circular dichroism spectroscopy were used to analysis the stability of Makatoxin-3. RESULTS Here we demonstrate that Makatoxin-3, an α-like toxin in BmK scorpion venom targeting Nav1.7 is the critical component in Scorpio-analgesia. The analgesic effect of Makatoxin-3 could not be reversed by naloxone and is more potent than Nav1.7-selective inhibitors and non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs in inflammatory models. Moreover, a R58A mutant of Makatoxin-3 is capable of eliciting analgesia effect without inducing pain response. CONCLUSIONS This study advances ion channel biology and proposes Nav1.7 agonists, rather than the presumed Nav1.7-only blockers, for non-narcotic relief of chronic pain.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yonggen Chen
- Affiliated Hospital of Integrated Traditional Chinese and Western Medicine, Nanjing University of Chinese Medicine, Nanjing, Jiangsu, 210028, China; School of Pharmacy, Nanjing University of Chinese Medicine, Nanjing, Jiangsu, 210023, China
| | - Erjin Xu
- Affiliated Hospital of Integrated Traditional Chinese and Western Medicine, Nanjing University of Chinese Medicine, Nanjing, Jiangsu, 210028, China; School of Pharmacy, Nanjing University of Chinese Medicine, Nanjing, Jiangsu, 210023, China
| | - Ming Sang
- Affiliated Hospital of Integrated Traditional Chinese and Western Medicine, Nanjing University of Chinese Medicine, Nanjing, Jiangsu, 210028, China
| | - Zhiheng Wang
- Affiliated Hospital of Integrated Traditional Chinese and Western Medicine, Nanjing University of Chinese Medicine, Nanjing, Jiangsu, 210028, China
| | - Yuxin Zhang
- Affiliated Hospital of Integrated Traditional Chinese and Western Medicine, Nanjing University of Chinese Medicine, Nanjing, Jiangsu, 210028, China; School of Pharmacy, Nanjing University of Chinese Medicine, Nanjing, Jiangsu, 210023, China
| | - Juan Ye
- Affiliated Hospital of Integrated Traditional Chinese and Western Medicine, Nanjing University of Chinese Medicine, Nanjing, Jiangsu, 210028, China
| | - Qian Zhou
- Affiliated Hospital of Integrated Traditional Chinese and Western Medicine, Nanjing University of Chinese Medicine, Nanjing, Jiangsu, 210028, China
| | - Chenglei Zhao
- Affiliated Hospital of Integrated Traditional Chinese and Western Medicine, Nanjing University of Chinese Medicine, Nanjing, Jiangsu, 210028, China
| | - Chunping Hu
- Affiliated Hospital of Integrated Traditional Chinese and Western Medicine, Nanjing University of Chinese Medicine, Nanjing, Jiangsu, 210028, China
| | - Wuguang Lu
- Affiliated Hospital of Integrated Traditional Chinese and Western Medicine, Nanjing University of Chinese Medicine, Nanjing, Jiangsu, 210028, China; School of Pharmacy, Nanjing University of Chinese Medicine, Nanjing, Jiangsu, 210023, China.
| | - Peng Cao
- Affiliated Hospital of Integrated Traditional Chinese and Western Medicine, Nanjing University of Chinese Medicine, Nanjing, Jiangsu, 210028, China; School of Pharmacy, Nanjing University of Chinese Medicine, Nanjing, Jiangsu, 210023, China.
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16
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Alsaloum M, Waxman SG. iPSCs and DRGs: stepping stones to new pain therapies. Trends Mol Med 2022; 28:110-122. [PMID: 34933815 PMCID: PMC8810720 DOI: 10.1016/j.molmed.2021.11.005] [Citation(s) in RCA: 13] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/28/2021] [Revised: 11/23/2021] [Accepted: 11/24/2021] [Indexed: 02/03/2023]
Abstract
There is a pressing need for more effective nonaddictive treatment options for pain. Pain signals are transmitted from the periphery into the spinal cord via dorsal root ganglion (DRG) neurons, whose excitability is driven by voltage-gated sodium (NaV) channels. Three NaV channels (NaV1.7, NaV1.8, and NaV1.9), preferentially expressed in DRG neurons, play important roles in pain signaling in humans. Blockade of these channels may provide a novel approach to the treatment of pain, but clinical translation of preclinical results has been challenging, in part due to differences between rodent and human DRG neurons. Human DRG neurons and iPSC-derived sensory neurons (iPSC-SNs) provide new preclinical platforms that may facilitate the development of novel pain therapeutics.
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Affiliation(s)
- Matthew Alsaloum
- Department of Neurology, Yale University School of Medicine, New Haven, CT, USA; Center for Neuroscience & Regeneration Research, Yale University, West Haven, CT, USA; Center for Rehabilitation Research, VA Connecticut Healthcare System, West Haven, CT, USA; Yale Medical Scientist Training Program, Yale School of Medicine, New Haven, CT, USA; Interdepartmental Neuroscience Program, Yale School of Medicine, New Haven, CT, USA
| | - Stephen G Waxman
- Department of Neurology, Yale University School of Medicine, New Haven, CT, USA; Center for Neuroscience & Regeneration Research, Yale University, West Haven, CT, USA; Center for Rehabilitation Research, VA Connecticut Healthcare System, West Haven, CT, USA.
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17
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Wistrom E, Chase R, Smith PR, Campbell ZT. A compendium of validated pain genes. WIREs Mech Dis 2022; 14:e1570. [PMID: 35760453 PMCID: PMC9787016 DOI: 10.1002/wsbm.1570] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/12/2022] [Revised: 05/28/2022] [Accepted: 06/06/2022] [Indexed: 12/30/2022]
Abstract
The development of novel pain therapeutics hinges on the identification and rigorous validation of potential targets. Model organisms provide a means to test the involvement of specific genes and regulatory elements in pain. Here we provide a list of genes linked to pain-associated behaviors. We capitalize on results spanning over three decades to identify a set of 242 genes. They support a remarkable diversity of functions spanning action potential propagation, immune response, GPCR signaling, enzymatic catalysis, nucleic acid regulation, and intercellular signaling. Making use of existing tissue and single-cell high-throughput RNA sequencing datasets, we examine their patterns of expression. For each gene class, we discuss archetypal members, with an emphasis on opportunities for additional experimentation. Finally, we discuss how powerful and increasingly ubiquitous forward genetic screening approaches could be used to improve our ability to identify pain genes. This article is categorized under: Neurological Diseases > Genetics/Genomics/Epigenetics Neurological Diseases > Molecular and Cellular Physiology.
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Affiliation(s)
- Eric Wistrom
- Department of Biological SciencesUniversity of Texas at DallasRichardsonTexasUSA
| | - Rebecca Chase
- Department of Biological SciencesUniversity of Texas at DallasRichardsonTexasUSA
| | - Patrick R. Smith
- Department of Biological SciencesUniversity of Texas at DallasRichardsonTexasUSA
| | - Zachary T. Campbell
- Department of Biological SciencesUniversity of Texas at DallasRichardsonTexasUSA,Center for Advanced Pain StudiesUniversity of Texas at DallasRichardsonTexasUSA
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18
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Diochot S. Pain-related toxins in scorpion and spider venoms: a face to face with ion channels. J Venom Anim Toxins Incl Trop Dis 2021; 27:e20210026. [PMID: 34925480 PMCID: PMC8667759 DOI: 10.1590/1678-9199-jvatitd-2021-0026] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/08/2021] [Revised: 05/10/2021] [Indexed: 12/12/2022] Open
Abstract
Pain is a common symptom induced during envenomation by spiders and scorpions.
Toxins isolated from their venom have become essential tools for studying the
functioning and physiopathological role of ion channels, as they modulate their
activity. In particular, toxins that induce pain relief effects can serve as a
molecular basis for the development of future analgesics in humans. This review
provides a summary of the different scorpion and spider toxins that directly
interact with pain-related ion channels, with inhibitory or stimulatory effects.
Some of these toxins were shown to affect pain modalities in different animal
models providing information on the role played by these channels in the pain
process. The close interaction of certain gating-modifier toxins with membrane
phospholipids close to ion channels is examined along with molecular approaches
to improve selectivity, affinity or bioavailability in vivo for
therapeutic purposes.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sylvie Diochot
- Institut de Pharmacologie Moléculaire et Cellulaire (IPMC), Centre National de la Recherche Scientifique (CNRS) UMR 7275 et Université Côte d'Azur (UCA), 06560 Valbonne, France. Institut de Pharmacologie Moléculaire et Cellulaire Centre National de la Recherche Scientifique Université Côte d'Azur Valbonne France
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19
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Lopez L, Montnach J, Oliveira-Mendes B, Khakh K, Thomas B, Lin S, Caumes C, Wesolowski S, Nicolas S, Servent D, Cohen C, Béroud R, Benoit E, De Waard M. Synthetic Analogues of Huwentoxin-IV Spider Peptide With Altered Human NaV1.7/NaV1.6 Selectivity Ratios. Front Cell Dev Biol 2021; 9:798588. [PMID: 34988086 PMCID: PMC8722715 DOI: 10.3389/fcell.2021.798588] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/20/2021] [Accepted: 11/22/2021] [Indexed: 11/26/2022] Open
Abstract
Huwentoxin-IV (HwTx-IV), a peptide discovered in the venom of the Chinese bird spider Cyriopagopus schmidti, has been reported to be a potent antinociceptive compound due to its action on the genetically-validated NaV1.7 pain target. Using this peptide for antinociceptive applications in vivo suffers from one major drawback, namely its negative impact on the neuromuscular system. Although studied only recently, this effect appears to be due to an interaction between the peptide and the NaV1.6 channel subtype located at the presynaptic level. The aim of this work was to investigate how HwTx-IV could be modified in order to alter the original human (h) NaV1.7/NaV1.6 selectivity ratio of 23. Nineteen HwTx-IV analogues were chemically synthesized and tested for their blocking effects on the Na+ currents flowing through these two channel subtypes stably expressed in cell lines. Dose-response curves for these analogues were generated, thanks to the use of an automated patch-clamp system. Several key amino acid positions were targeted owing to the information provided by earlier structure-activity relationship (SAR) studies. Among the analogues tested, the potency of HwTx-IV E4K was significantly improved for hNaV1.6, leading to a decreased hNaV1.7/hNaV1.6 selectivity ratio (close to 1). Similar decreased selectivity ratios, but with increased potency for both subtypes, were observed for HwTx-IV analogues that combine a substitution at position 4 with a modification of amino acid 1 or 26 (HwTx-IV E1G/E4G and HwTx-IV E4K/R26Q). In contrast, increased selectivity ratios (>46) were obtained if the E4K mutation was combined to an additional double substitution (R26A/Y33W) or simply by further substituting the C-terminal amidation of the peptide by a carboxylated motif, linked to a marked loss of potency on hNaV1.6 in this latter case. These results demonstrate that it is possible to significantly modulate the selectivity ratio for these two channel subtypes in order to improve the potency of a given analogue for hNaV1.6 and/or hNaV1.7 subtypes. In addition, selective analogues for hNaV1.7, possessing better safety profiles, were produced to limit neuromuscular impairments.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ludivine Lopez
- L’institut du Thorax, INSERM, CNRS, UNIV NANTES, Nantes, France
| | - Jérôme Montnach
- L’institut du Thorax, INSERM, CNRS, UNIV NANTES, Nantes, France
| | | | | | | | - Sophia Lin
- Xenon Pharmaceuticals, Burnaby, BC, Canada
| | | | | | | | - Denis Servent
- Département Médicaments et Technologies pour La Santé (DMTS), Service d’Ingénierie Moléculaire pour La Santé (SIMoS), ERL CNRS/CEA, Institut des Sciences du Vivant Frédéric Joliot, CEA, Université Paris Saclay, Gif-sur-Yvette, France
| | | | | | - Evelyne Benoit
- Département Médicaments et Technologies pour La Santé (DMTS), Service d’Ingénierie Moléculaire pour La Santé (SIMoS), ERL CNRS/CEA, Institut des Sciences du Vivant Frédéric Joliot, CEA, Université Paris Saclay, Gif-sur-Yvette, France
| | - Michel De Waard
- L’institut du Thorax, INSERM, CNRS, UNIV NANTES, Nantes, France
- Smartox Biotechnology, Saint-Egrève, France
- LabEx « Ion Channels, Science and Therapeutics », Valbonne, France
- *Correspondence: Michel De Waard,
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20
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Neff RA, Wickenden AD. Selective Targeting of Nav1.7 with Engineered Spider Venom-Based Peptides. Channels (Austin) 2021; 15:179-193. [PMID: 33427574 PMCID: PMC7808416 DOI: 10.1080/19336950.2020.1860382] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/06/2020] [Revised: 12/02/2020] [Accepted: 12/02/2020] [Indexed: 01/12/2023] Open
Abstract
A fundamental mechanism that drives the propagation of electrical signals in the nervous system is the activation of voltage-gated sodium channels. The sodium channel subtype Nav1.7 is critical for the transmission of pain-related signaling, with gain-of-function mutations in Nav1.7 resulting in various painful pathologies. Loss-of-function mutations cause complete insensitivity to pain and anosmia in humans that otherwise have normal nervous system function, rendering Nav1.7 an attractive target for the treatment of pain. Despite this, no Nav1.7 selective therapeutic has been approved for use as an analgesic to date. Here we present a summary of research that has focused on engineering peptides found in spider venoms to produce Nav1.7 selective antagonists. We discuss the progress that has been made on various scaffolds from different venom families and highlight the challenges that remain in the effort to produce a Nav1.7 selective, venom-based analgesic.
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Affiliation(s)
- Robert A. Neff
- Neuroscience Discovery, Janssen Research and Development, LLC, San Diego, CA, USA
| | - Alan D. Wickenden
- Molecular and Cellular Pharmacology, Janssen Research and Development, LLC, San Diego, CA, USA
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21
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Cai S, Moutal A, Yu J, Chew LA, Isensee J, Chawla R, Gomez K, Luo S, Zhou Y, Chefdeville A, Madura C, Perez-Miller S, Bellampalli SS, Dorame A, Scott DD, François-Moutal L, Shan Z, Woodward T, Gokhale V, Hohmann AG, Vanderah TW, Patek M, Khanna M, Hucho T, Khanna R. Selective targeting of NaV1.7 via inhibition of the CRMP2-Ubc9 interaction reduces pain in rodents. Sci Transl Med 2021; 13:eabh1314. [PMID: 34757807 DOI: 10.1126/scitranslmed.abh1314] [Citation(s) in RCA: 24] [Impact Index Per Article: 8.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/28/2022]
Abstract
The voltage-gated sodium NaV1.7 channel, critical for sensing pain, has been actively targeted by drug developers; however, there are currently no effective and safe therapies targeting NaV1.7. Here, we tested whether a different approach, indirect NaV1.7 regulation, could have antinociceptive effects in preclinical models. We found that preventing addition of small ubiquitin-like modifier (SUMO) on the NaV1.7-interacting cytosolic collapsin response mediator protein 2 (CRMP2) blocked NaV1.7 functions and had antinociceptive effects in rodents. In silico targeting of the SUMOylation site in CRMP2 (Lys374) identified >200 hits, of which compound 194 exhibited selective in vitro and ex vivo NaV1.7 engagement. Orally administered 194 was not only antinociceptive in preclinical models of acute and chronic pain but also demonstrated synergy alongside other analgesics—without eliciting addiction, rewarding properties, or neurotoxicity. Analgesia conferred by 194 was opioid receptor dependent. Our results demonstrate that 194 is a first-in-class protein-protein inhibitor that capitalizes on CRMP2-NaV1.7 regulation to deliver safe analgesia in rodents.
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Affiliation(s)
- Song Cai
- Department of Pharmacology, College of Medicine, The University of Arizona, Tucson, AZ 85724, USA
| | - Aubin Moutal
- Department of Pharmacology, College of Medicine, The University of Arizona, Tucson, AZ 85724, USA
| | - Jie Yu
- Department of Pharmacology, College of Medicine, The University of Arizona, Tucson, AZ 85724, USA
| | - Lindsey A Chew
- Department of Pharmacology, College of Medicine, The University of Arizona, Tucson, AZ 85724, USA
| | - Jörg Isensee
- Department of Anesthesiology and Intensive Care Medicine, Translational Pain Research, University Hospital of Cologne, University Cologne, Joseph-Stelzmann-Str 9, Cologne D-50931, Germany
| | - Reena Chawla
- BIO5 Institute, 1657 East Helen Street, Tucson, AZ 85721, USA
| | - Kimberly Gomez
- Department of Pharmacology, College of Medicine, The University of Arizona, Tucson, AZ 85724, USA
| | - Shizhen Luo
- Department of Pharmacology, College of Medicine, The University of Arizona, Tucson, AZ 85724, USA
| | - Yuan Zhou
- Department of Pharmacology, College of Medicine, The University of Arizona, Tucson, AZ 85724, USA
| | - Aude Chefdeville
- Department of Pharmacology, College of Medicine, The University of Arizona, Tucson, AZ 85724, USA
| | - Cynthia Madura
- Department of Pharmacology, College of Medicine, The University of Arizona, Tucson, AZ 85724, USA
| | - Samantha Perez-Miller
- Department of Pharmacology, College of Medicine, The University of Arizona, Tucson, AZ 85724, USA
- Center for Innovation in Brain Sciences, University of Arizona, Tucson, AZ 85721, USA
| | - Shreya Sai Bellampalli
- Department of Pharmacology, College of Medicine, The University of Arizona, Tucson, AZ 85724, USA
| | - Angie Dorame
- Department of Pharmacology, College of Medicine, The University of Arizona, Tucson, AZ 85724, USA
| | - David D Scott
- Department of Pharmacology, College of Medicine, The University of Arizona, Tucson, AZ 85724, USA
| | - Liberty François-Moutal
- Department of Pharmacology, College of Medicine, The University of Arizona, Tucson, AZ 85724, USA
| | - Zhiming Shan
- Department of Pharmacology, College of Medicine, The University of Arizona, Tucson, AZ 85724, USA
| | - Taylor Woodward
- Department of Psychological and Brain Sciences, Program in Neuroscience and Gill Center for Biomolecular Science, Indiana University, Bloomington, IN 47405-2204, USA
| | - Vijay Gokhale
- BIO5 Institute, 1657 East Helen Street, Tucson, AZ 85721, USA
- College of Pharmacy, University of Arizona, 1703 East Mabel Street, Tucson, AZ 85721, USA
| | - Andrea G Hohmann
- Department of Psychological and Brain Sciences, Program in Neuroscience and Gill Center for Biomolecular Science, Indiana University, Bloomington, IN 47405-2204, USA
| | - Todd W Vanderah
- Department of Pharmacology, College of Medicine, The University of Arizona, Tucson, AZ 85724, USA
- Comprehensive Pain and Addiction Center, The University of Arizona, Tucson, AZ 85724, USA
| | - Marcel Patek
- Regulonix LLC, 1555 E. Entrada Segunda, Tucson, AZ 85718, USA
- Bright Rock Path LLC, Tucson, AZ 85724, USA
| | - May Khanna
- Department of Pharmacology, College of Medicine, The University of Arizona, Tucson, AZ 85724, USA
- BIO5 Institute, 1657 East Helen Street, Tucson, AZ 85721, USA
- Center for Innovation in Brain Sciences, University of Arizona, Tucson, AZ 85721, USA
- Regulonix LLC, 1555 E. Entrada Segunda, Tucson, AZ 85718, USA
| | - Tim Hucho
- Department of Anesthesiology and Intensive Care Medicine, Translational Pain Research, University Hospital of Cologne, University Cologne, Joseph-Stelzmann-Str 9, Cologne D-50931, Germany
| | - Rajesh Khanna
- Department of Pharmacology, College of Medicine, The University of Arizona, Tucson, AZ 85724, USA
- BIO5 Institute, 1657 East Helen Street, Tucson, AZ 85721, USA
- Center for Innovation in Brain Sciences, University of Arizona, Tucson, AZ 85721, USA
- Comprehensive Pain and Addiction Center, The University of Arizona, Tucson, AZ 85724, USA
- Regulonix LLC, 1555 E. Entrada Segunda, Tucson, AZ 85718, USA
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22
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Schroder RV, Cohen LS, Wang P, Arizala JD, Poget SF. Expression, Purification and Refolding of a Human Na V1.7 Voltage Sensing Domain with Native-like Toxin Binding Properties. Toxins (Basel) 2021; 13:toxins13100722. [PMID: 34679015 PMCID: PMC8541342 DOI: 10.3390/toxins13100722] [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: 09/13/2021] [Revised: 10/04/2021] [Accepted: 10/04/2021] [Indexed: 01/28/2023] Open
Abstract
The voltage-gated sodium channel NaV1.7 is an important target for drug development due to its role in pain perception. Recombinant expression of full-length channels and their use for biophysical characterization of interactions with potential drug candidates is challenging due to the protein size and complexity. To overcome this issue, we developed a protocol for the recombinant expression in E. coli and refolding into lipids of the isolated voltage sensing domain (VSD) of repeat II of NaV1.7, obtaining yields of about 2 mg of refolded VSD from 1 L bacterial cell culture. This VSD is known to be involved in the binding of a number of gating-modifier toxins, including the tarantula toxins ProTx-II and GpTx-I. Binding studies using microscale thermophoresis showed that recombinant refolded VSD binds both of these toxins with dissociation constants in the high nM range, and their relative binding affinities reflect the relative IC50 values of these toxins for full-channel inhibition. Additionally, we expressed mutant VSDs incorporating single amino acid substitutions that had previously been shown to affect the activity of ProTx-II on full channel. We found decreases in GpTx-I binding affinity for these mutants, consistent with a similar binding mechanism for GpTx-I as compared to that of ProTx-II. Therefore, this recombinant VSD captures many of the native interactions between NaV1.7 and tarantula gating-modifier toxins and represents a valuable tool for elucidating details of toxin binding and specificity that could help in the design of non-addictive pain medication acting through NaV1.7 inhibition.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ryan V. Schroder
- Department of Chemistry, College of Staten Island, University of New York, 2800 Victory Blvd., Staten Island, NY 10314, USA; (R.V.S.); (L.S.C.); (P.W.); (J.D.A.)
- The Ph.D. Program in Biochemistry, The Graduate Center of the City University of New York, 365 Fifth Avenue, New York, NY 10016, USA
| | - Leah S. Cohen
- Department of Chemistry, College of Staten Island, University of New York, 2800 Victory Blvd., Staten Island, NY 10314, USA; (R.V.S.); (L.S.C.); (P.W.); (J.D.A.)
| | - Ping Wang
- Department of Chemistry, College of Staten Island, University of New York, 2800 Victory Blvd., Staten Island, NY 10314, USA; (R.V.S.); (L.S.C.); (P.W.); (J.D.A.)
| | - Joekeem D. Arizala
- Department of Chemistry, College of Staten Island, University of New York, 2800 Victory Blvd., Staten Island, NY 10314, USA; (R.V.S.); (L.S.C.); (P.W.); (J.D.A.)
- The Ph.D. Program in Biochemistry, The Graduate Center of the City University of New York, 365 Fifth Avenue, New York, NY 10016, USA
| | - Sébastien F. Poget
- Department of Chemistry, College of Staten Island, University of New York, 2800 Victory Blvd., Staten Island, NY 10314, USA; (R.V.S.); (L.S.C.); (P.W.); (J.D.A.)
- The Ph.D. Program in Biochemistry, The Graduate Center of the City University of New York, 365 Fifth Avenue, New York, NY 10016, USA
- The Ph.D. Program in Chemistry, The Graduate Center of the City University of New York, 365 Fifth Avenue, New York, NY 10016, USA
- Correspondence:
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Hu H, Mawlawi SE, Zhao T, Deuis JR, Jami S, Vetter I, Lewis RJ, Cardoso FC. Engineering of a Spider Peptide via Conserved Structure-Function Traits Optimizes Sodium Channel Inhibition In Vitro and Anti-Nociception In Vivo. Front Mol Biosci 2021; 8:742457. [PMID: 34621788 PMCID: PMC8490825 DOI: 10.3389/fmolb.2021.742457] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/16/2021] [Accepted: 09/06/2021] [Indexed: 12/12/2022] Open
Abstract
Venom peptides are potent and selective modulators of voltage-gated ion channels that regulate neuronal function both in health and in disease. We previously identified the spider venom peptide Tap1a from the Venezuelan tarantula Theraphosa apophysis that targeted multiple voltage-gated sodium and calcium channels in visceral pain pathways and inhibited visceral mechano-sensing neurons contributing to irritable bowel syndrome. In this work, alanine scanning and domain activity analysis revealed Tap1a inhibited sodium channels by binding with nanomolar affinity to the voltage-sensor domain II utilising conserved structure-function features characteristic of spider peptides belonging to family NaSpTx1. In order to speed up the development of optimized NaV-targeting peptides with greater inhibitory potency and enhanced in vivo activity, we tested the hypothesis that incorporating residues identified from other optimized NaSpTx1 peptides into Tap1a could also optimize its potency for NaVs. Applying this approach, we designed the peptides Tap1a-OPT1 and Tap1a-OPT2 exhibiting significant increased potency for NaV1.1, NaV1.2, NaV1.3, NaV1.6 and NaV1.7 involved in several neurological disorders including acute and chronic pain, motor neuron disease and epilepsy. Tap1a-OPT1 showed increased potency for the off-target NaV1.4, while this off-target activity was absent in Tap1a-OPT2. This enhanced potency arose through a slowed off-rate mechanism. Optimized inhibition of NaV channels observed in vitro translated in vivo, with reversal of nocifensive behaviours in a murine model of NaV-mediated pain also enhanced by Tap1a-OPT. Molecular docking studies suggested that improved interactions within loops 3 and 4, and C-terminal of Tap1a-OPT and the NaV channel voltage-sensor domain II were the main drivers of potency optimization. Overall, the rationally designed peptide Tap1a-OPT displayed new and refined structure-function features which are likely the major contributors to its enhanced bioactive properties observed in vivo. This work contributes to the rapid engineering and optimization of potent spider peptides multi-targeting NaV channels, and the research into novel drugs to treat neurological diseases.
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Affiliation(s)
- H Hu
- Institute for Molecular Bioscience, The University of Queensland, Brisbane, QLD, Australia
| | - S E Mawlawi
- Institute for Molecular Bioscience, The University of Queensland, Brisbane, QLD, Australia
| | - T Zhao
- Institute for Molecular Bioscience, The University of Queensland, Brisbane, QLD, Australia
| | - J R Deuis
- Institute for Molecular Bioscience, The University of Queensland, Brisbane, QLD, Australia
| | - S Jami
- Institute for Molecular Bioscience, The University of Queensland, Brisbane, QLD, Australia
| | - I Vetter
- Institute for Molecular Bioscience, The University of Queensland, Brisbane, QLD, Australia.,School of Pharmacy, The University of Queensland, Brisbane, QLD, Australia
| | - R J Lewis
- Institute for Molecular Bioscience, The University of Queensland, Brisbane, QLD, Australia
| | - F C Cardoso
- Institute for Molecular Bioscience, The University of Queensland, Brisbane, QLD, Australia.,Centre for Innovations in Peptide and Protein Science, The University of Queensland, Brisbane, QLD, Australia
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24
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Tetrodotoxin: A New Strategy to Treat Visceral Pain? Toxins (Basel) 2021; 13:toxins13070496. [PMID: 34357968 PMCID: PMC8310099 DOI: 10.3390/toxins13070496] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/21/2021] [Revised: 07/08/2021] [Accepted: 07/13/2021] [Indexed: 12/13/2022] Open
Abstract
Visceral pain is one of the most common symptoms associated with functional gastrointestinal (GI) disorders. Although the origin of these symptoms has not been clearly defined, the implication of both the central and peripheral nervous systems in visceral hypersensitivity is well established. The role of several pathways in visceral nociception has been explored, as well as the influence of specific receptors on afferent neurons, such as voltage-gated sodium channels (VGSCs). VGSCs initiate action potentials and dysfunction of these channels has recently been associated with painful GI conditions. Current treatments for visceral pain generally involve opioid based drugs, which are associated with important side-effects and a loss of effectiveness or tolerance. Hence, efforts have been intensified to find new, more effective and longer-lasting therapies. The implication of VGSCs in visceral hypersensitivity has drawn attention to tetrodotoxin (TTX), a relatively selective sodium channel blocker, as a possible and promising molecule to treat visceral pain and related diseases. As such, here we will review the latest information regarding this toxin that is relevant to the treatment of visceral pain and the possible advantages that it may offer relative to other treatments, alone or in combination.
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25
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A Buthus martensii Karsch scorpion sting targets Nav1.7 in mice and mimics a phenotype of human chronic pain. Pain 2021; 163:e202-e214. [PMID: 34252912 DOI: 10.1097/j.pain.0000000000002397] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/03/2021] [Accepted: 06/28/2021] [Indexed: 11/25/2022]
Abstract
GAIN and loss-of-function mutations in Nav1.7 cause chronic pain and pain insensitivity, respectively. The preferential expression of Nav1.7 in peripheral nervous system and its role in human pain signaling make Nav1.7 a promising target for next-generation pain therapeutics. However, pharmacological agents have not fully recapitulated these pain phenotypes, and, due to the lack of subtype-selective molecular modulators, the role of Nav1.7 in the perception of pain remains poorly understood. Scorpion venom is an excellent source of bioactive peptides that modulate various ion channels, including voltage-gated sodium (Nav) channels . Here, we demonstrate that Buthus martensii Karsch scorpion venom (BV) elicits pain responses in mice through direct enhancement of Nav1.7 activity, and have identified that Makatoxin-3, an α-like toxin as a critical component for BV-mediated effects on Nav1.7. Blocking other Nav subtypes did not eliminate BV-evoked pain responses, supporting the pivotal role of Nav1.7 in BV-induced pain . Makatoxin-3 acts on the S3-S4 loop of voltage sensor domain IV (VSD4) of Nav1.7, which causes a hyperpolarizing shift in the steady-state fast inactivation and impairs inactivation kinetics. We also determined the key residues and structure-function relationships for the toxin-channel interactions, which are distinct from those of other well-studied α-toxins. This study not only reveals a new mechanism underlying BV-evoked pain, but also enriches our knowledge of key structural elements of scorpion toxins that are pivotal for toxin-Nav1.7 interaction, which facilitates the design of novel Nav1.7 selective modulators.
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26
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Alvarez P, Bogen O, Green PG, Levine JD. Nociceptor Overexpression of Na V1.7 Contributes to Chronic Muscle Pain Induced by Early-Life Stress. THE JOURNAL OF PAIN 2021; 22:806-816. [PMID: 33636374 PMCID: PMC8406703 DOI: 10.1016/j.jpain.2021.02.003] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/18/2020] [Revised: 01/27/2021] [Accepted: 02/07/2021] [Indexed: 01/06/2023]
Abstract
Adult rats previously submitted to neonatal limited bedding (NLB), a model of early-life stress, display muscle mechanical hyperalgesia and nociceptor hyperexcitability, the underlying mechanism for which is unknown. Since voltage-gated sodium channel subtype 7 (NaV1.7) contributes to mechanical hyperalgesia in several preclinical pain models and is critical for nociceptor excitability, we explored its role in the muscle hyperalgesia exhibited by adult NLB rats. Western blot analyses demonstrated increased NaV1.7 protein expression in L4-L5 dorsal root ganglia (DRG) from adult NLB rats, and antisense oligodeoxynucleotide (AS ODN) targeting NaV1.7 alpha subunit mRNA attenuated the expression of NaV1.7 in DRG extracts. While this AS ODN did not affect nociceptive threshold in normal rats it significantly attenuated hyperalgesia in NLB rats. The selective NaV1.7 activator OD1 produced dose-dependent mechanical hyperalgesia that was enhanced in NLB rats, whereas the NaV1.7 blocker ProTx-II prevented OD1-induced hyperalgesia in control rats and ongoing hyperalgesia in NLB rats. AS ODN knockdown of extracellular signal-regulated kinase 1/2, which enhances NaV1.7 function, also inhibited mechanical hyperalgesia in NLB rats. Our results support the hypothesis that overexpression of NaV1.7 in muscle nociceptors play a role in chronic muscle pain induced by early-life stress, suggesting that NaV1.7 is a target for the treatment of chronic muscle pain. PERSPECTIVE: We demonstrate that early-life adversity, induced by exposure to inconsistent maternal care, produces chronic muscle hyperalgesia, which depends, at least in part, on increased expression of NaV1.7 in nociceptors.
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Affiliation(s)
- Pedro Alvarez
- Department of Oral and Maxillofacial Surgery, University of California, San Francisco, San Francisco, California
| | - Oliver Bogen
- Department of Oral and Maxillofacial Surgery, University of California, San Francisco, San Francisco, California; UCSF Pain and Addiction Research Center, University of California, San Francisco, San Francisco, California
| | - Paul G Green
- Department of Oral and Maxillofacial Surgery, University of California, San Francisco, San Francisco, California; UCSF Pain and Addiction Research Center, University of California, San Francisco, San Francisco, California; Department of Preventative and Restorative Dental Sciences, University of California, San Francisco, San Francisco, California
| | - Jon D Levine
- Department of Oral and Maxillofacial Surgery, University of California, San Francisco, San Francisco, California; UCSF Pain and Addiction Research Center, University of California, San Francisco, San Francisco, California; Department of Medicine, University of California San Francisco, San Francisco, California.
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27
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Mohammed ZA, Kaloyanova K, Nassar MA. An unbiased and efficient assessment of excitability of sensory neurons for analgesic drug discovery. Pain 2021; 161:1100-1108. [PMID: 31929383 PMCID: PMC7170445 DOI: 10.1097/j.pain.0000000000001802] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/25/2022]
Abstract
Distinct veratridine-induced calcium responses in nociceptors and non-nociceptors allow for unbiased and efficient assessment of drugs' action on both populations separately but simultaneously. Alleviating chronic pain is challenging, due to lack of drugs that effectively inhibit nociceptors without off-target effects on motor or central neurons. Dorsal root ganglia (DRG) contain nociceptive and non-nociceptive neurons. Drug screening on cultured DRG neurons, rather than cell lines, allows for the identification of drugs most potent on nociceptors with no effects on non-nociceptors (as a proxy for unwanted side effects on central nervous system and motor neurons). However, screening using DRG neurons is currently a low-throughput process, and there is a need for assays to speed this process for analgesic drug discovery. We previously showed that veratridine elicits distinct response profiles in sensory neurons. Here, we show evidence that a veratridine-based calcium assay allows for an unbiased and efficient assessment of a drug effect on nociceptors (targeted neurons) and non-nociceptors (nontargeted neurons). We confirmed the link between the oscillatory profile and nociceptors, and the slow-decay profile and non-nociceptors using 3 transgenic mouse lines of known pain phenotypes. We used the assay to show that blockers for Nav1.7 and Nav1.8 channels, which are validated targets for analgesics, affect non-nociceptors at concentrations needed to effectively inhibit nociceptors. However, a combination of low doses of both blockers had an additive effect on nociceptors without a significant effect on non-nociceptors, indicating that the assay can also be used to screen for combinations of existing or novel drugs for the greatest selective inhibition of nociceptors.
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Affiliation(s)
- Zainab A Mohammed
- Department of Biomedical Science, University of Sheffield, Sheffield, United Kingdom
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28
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Rengasamy KRR, Mahomoodally MF, Joaheer T, Zhang Y. A Systematic Review of Traditionally Used Herbs and Animal-Derived Products as Potential Analgesics. Curr Neuropharmacol 2021; 19:553-588. [PMID: 32781962 PMCID: PMC8206464 DOI: 10.2174/1570159x18666200808151522] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/22/2020] [Revised: 05/10/2020] [Accepted: 06/21/2020] [Indexed: 11/25/2022] Open
Abstract
Pain is a distressing but fundamental manifestation that prepares the body for potentially detrimental stimuli while ensuring its protection. Plant and animal products have traditionally been used to relieve pain for centuries. However, no attempt has been made to compile a single report of plant and animal products possessing analgesic properties. This review enadeavours to recover data from published articles to establish a collective literature review on folk remedies from plant and animal sources used as analgesics and in the treatment of pain-related conditions, identifying gaps in existing knowledge and future works. Relevant information was systematically retrieved using the PRISMA method. In this review, in total, 209 plants were found to be either used raw or prepared by decoctions or maceration. Administration was either oral or topical, and they were predominantly used in Asian countries. In vivo studies of plants with analgesic properties, which were tested using different methods including acetic-induced writhing test, hotplate test, tail-flick test, and formalin-induced pain test, were compiled. Animal products with analgesic properties were obtained mainly from compounds present in venom; their bioactive compounds were also identified. In the literature search, certain gaps were noted, which could be reviewed in future studies. For instance, there was a disparity of information regarding the traditional uses of medicinal plants. In this review, an attempt was made to critically assess and describe the pharmacological properties and bioactive composition of indigenous plants, some animal species, and animal venom by scrutinizing databases and looking for published articles. Therefore, it can be concluded that the compounds obtained from these sources can serve as important ingredients in therapeutic agents to alleviate pain once their limitations are assessed and improved upon. In the literature search, certain gaps were noted, which could be reviewed in future studies.
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Affiliation(s)
- Kannan R R Rengasamy
- Institute of Research and Development, Duy Tan University, Da Nang 550000, Vietnam.,Faculty of Environment and Chemical Engineering, Duy Tan University, Da Nang 550000, Vietnam,Indigenous Knowledge Systems Centre, Faculty of Natural and Agricultural Sciences, North-West University, Private Bag X2046, Mmabatho 2745, North West Province, South Africa
| | - Mohamad Fawzi Mahomoodally
- Department for Management of Science and Technology Development, Ton Duc Thang University, Ho Chi Minh City, Vietnam,Faculty of Applied Sciences, Ton Duc Thang University, Ho Chi Minh City, Vietnam
| | - Teshika Joaheer
- Department of Health Sciences, Faculty of Science, University of Mauritius, Reduit, Mauritius
| | - Yansheng Zhang
- Shanghai Key Laboratory of Bio-Energy Crops, School of Life Sciences, Shanghai University, Shanghai, 200444, China
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29
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Beckley JT, Pajouhesh H, Luu G, Klas S, Delwig A, Monteleone D, Zhou X, Giuvelis D, Meng ID, Yeomans DC, Hunter JC, Mulcahy JV. Antinociceptive properties of an isoform-selective inhibitor of Nav1.7 derived from saxitoxin in mouse models of pain. Pain 2021; 162:1250-1261. [PMID: 33086288 PMCID: PMC9359086 DOI: 10.1097/j.pain.0000000000002112] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/23/2020] [Accepted: 09/29/2020] [Indexed: 12/19/2022]
Abstract
ABSTRACT The voltage-gated sodium channel Nav1.7 is highly expressed in nociceptive afferents and is critically involved in pain signal transmission. Nav1.7 is a genetically validated pain target in humans because loss-of-function mutations cause congenital insensitivity to pain and gain-of-function mutations cause severe pain syndromes. Consequently, pharmacological inhibition has been investigated as an analgesic therapeutic strategy. We describe a small molecule Nav1.7 inhibitor, ST-2530, that is an analog of the naturally occurring sodium channel blocker saxitoxin. When evaluated against human Nav1.7 by patch-clamp electrophysiology using a protocol that favors the resting state, the Kd of ST-2530 was 25 ± 7 nM. ST-2530 exhibited greater than 500-fold selectivity over human voltage-gated sodium channel isoforms Nav1.1-Nav1.6 and Nav1.8. Although ST-2530 had lower affinity against mouse Nav1.7 (Kd = 250 ± 40 nM), potency was sufficient to assess analgesic efficacy in mouse pain models. A 3-mg/kg dose administered subcutaneously was broadly analgesic in acute pain models using noxious thermal, mechanical, and chemical stimuli. ST-2530 also reversed thermal hypersensitivity after a surgical incision on the plantar surface of the hind paw. In the spared nerve injury model of neuropathic pain, ST-2530 transiently reversed mechanical allodynia. These analgesic effects were demonstrated at doses that did not affect locomotion, motor coordination, or olfaction. Collectively, results from this study indicate that pharmacological inhibition of Nav1.7 by a small molecule agent with affinity for the resting state of the channel is sufficient to produce analgesia in a range of preclinical pain models.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jacob T Beckley
- SiteOne Therapeutics, 351 Evergreen Drive, Suite B-1, Bozeman, MT 59715
| | - Hassan Pajouhesh
- SiteOne Therapeutics, 280 Utah Avenue, Suite 250, South San Francisco, CA 94080
| | - George Luu
- SiteOne Therapeutics, 280 Utah Avenue, Suite 250, South San Francisco, CA 94080
| | - Sheri Klas
- SiteOne Therapeutics, 351 Evergreen Drive, Suite B-1, Bozeman, MT 59715
| | - Anton Delwig
- SiteOne Therapeutics, 280 Utah Avenue, Suite 250, South San Francisco, CA 94080
| | - Dennis Monteleone
- SiteOne Therapeutics, 280 Utah Avenue, Suite 250, South San Francisco, CA 94080
| | - Xiang Zhou
- SiteOne Therapeutics, 280 Utah Avenue, Suite 250, South San Francisco, CA 94080
| | - Denise Giuvelis
- University of New England, Center for Excellence in the Neurosciences, Biddeford, ME 04005
| | - Ian D Meng
- University of New England, Center for Excellence in the Neurosciences, Biddeford, ME 04005
| | | | - John C Hunter
- SiteOne Therapeutics, 280 Utah Avenue, Suite 250, South San Francisco, CA 94080
| | - John V Mulcahy
- SiteOne Therapeutics, 280 Utah Avenue, Suite 250, South San Francisco, CA 94080
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30
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In silico development of potential therapeutic for the pain treatment by inhibiting voltage-gated sodium channel 1.7. Comput Biol Med 2021; 132:104346. [PMID: 33774271 DOI: 10.1016/j.compbiomed.2021.104346] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/08/2020] [Revised: 03/13/2021] [Accepted: 03/13/2021] [Indexed: 01/27/2023]
Abstract
The voltage-gated sodium channel Nav1.7 can be considered as a promising target for the treatment of pain. This research presents conformational-independent and 3D field-based QSAR modeling for a series of aryl sulfonamide acting as Nav1.7 inhibitors. As descriptors used for building conformation-independent QSAR models, SMILES notation and local invariants of the molecular graph were used with the Monte Carlo optimization method as a model developer. Different statistical methods, including the index of ideality of correlation, were used to test the quality of the developed models, robustness and predictability and obtained results were good. Obtained results indicate that there is a very good correlation between 3D QSAR and conformation-independent models. Molecular fragments that account for the increase/decrease of a studied activity were defined and used for the computer-aided design of new compounds as potential analgesics. The final evaluation of the developed QSAR models and designed inhibitors were carried out using molecular docking studies, bringing to light an excellent correlation with the QSAR modeling results.
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31
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Gambeta E, Chichorro JG, Zamponi GW. Trigeminal neuralgia: An overview from pathophysiology to pharmacological treatments. Mol Pain 2021; 16:1744806920901890. [PMID: 31908187 PMCID: PMC6985973 DOI: 10.1177/1744806920901890] [Citation(s) in RCA: 129] [Impact Index Per Article: 43.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/04/2023] Open
Abstract
The trigeminal nerve (V) is the fifth and largest of all cranial nerves, and it is responsible for detecting sensory stimuli that arise from the craniofacial area. The nerve is divided into three branches: ophthalmic (V1), maxillary (V2), and mandibular (V3); their cell bodies are located in the trigeminal ganglia and they make connections with second-order neurons in the trigeminal brainstem sensory nuclear complex. Ascending projections via the trigeminothalamic tract transmit information to the thalamus and other brain regions responsible for interpreting sensory information. One of the most common forms of craniofacial pain is trigeminal neuralgia. Trigeminal neuralgia is characterized by sudden, brief, and excruciating facial pain attacks in one or more of the V branches, leading to a severe reduction in the quality of life of affected patients. Trigeminal neuralgia etiology can be classified into idiopathic, classic, and secondary. Classic trigeminal neuralgia is associated with neurovascular compression in the trigeminal root entry zone, which can lead to demyelination and a dysregulation of voltage-gated sodium channel expression in the membrane. These alterations may be responsible for pain attacks in trigeminal neuralgia patients. The antiepileptic drugs carbamazepine and oxcarbazepine are the first-line pharmacological treatment for trigeminal neuralgia. Their mechanism of action is a modulation of voltage-gated sodium channels, leading to a decrease in neuronal activity. Although carbamazepine and oxcarbazepine are the first-line treatment, other drugs may be useful for pain control in trigeminal neuralgia. Among them, the anticonvulsants gabapentin, pregabalin, lamotrigine and phenytoin, baclofen, and botulinum toxin type A can be coadministered with carbamazepine or oxcarbazepine for a synergistic approach. New pharmacological alternatives are being explored such as the active metabolite of oxcarbazepine, eslicarbazepine, and the new Nav1.7 blocker vixotrigine. The pharmacological profiles of these drugs are addressed in this review.
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Affiliation(s)
- Eder Gambeta
- Department of Physiology and Pharmacology, Alberta Children's Hospital Research Institute and Hotchkiss Brain Institute, Cumming School of Medicine, University of Calgary, Calgary, Alberta, Canada
| | - Juliana G Chichorro
- Department of Pharmacology, Biological Sciences Sector, Federal University of Parana, Curitiba, Brazil
| | - Gerald W. Zamponi
- Department of Physiology and Pharmacology, Alberta Children's Hospital Research Institute and Hotchkiss Brain Institute, Cumming School of Medicine, University of Calgary, Calgary, Alberta, Canada
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32
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Hasan MM, Starobova H, Mueller A, Vetter I, Lewis RJ. Subcutaneous ω-Conotoxins Alleviate Mechanical Pain in Rodent Models of Acute Peripheral Neuropathy. Mar Drugs 2021; 19:106. [PMID: 33670311 PMCID: PMC7917901 DOI: 10.3390/md19020106] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/29/2020] [Revised: 02/05/2021] [Accepted: 02/07/2021] [Indexed: 11/16/2022] Open
Abstract
The peripheral effects of ω-conotoxins, selective blockers of N-type voltage-gated calcium channels (CaV2.2), have not been characterised across different clinically relevant pain models. This study examines the effects of locally administered ω-conotoxin MVIIA, GVIA, and CVIF on mechanical and thermal paw withdrawal threshold (PWT) in postsurgical pain (PSP), cisplatin-induced neuropathy (CisIPN), and oxaliplatin-induced neuropathy (OIPN) rodent models. Intraplantar injection of 300, 100 and 30 nM MVIIA significantly (p < 0.0001, p < 0.0001, and p < 0.05, respectively) alleviated mechanical allodynia of mice in PSP model compared to vehicle control group. Similarly, intraplantar injection of 300, 100, and 30 nM MVIIA (p < 0.0001, p < 0.01, and p < 0.05, respectively), and 300 nM and 100 nM GVIA (p < 0.0001 and p < 0.05, respectively) significantly increased mechanical thresholds of mice in OIPN model. The ED50 of GVIA and MVIIA in OIPN was found to be 1.8 pmol/paw and 0.8 pmol/paw, respectively. However, none of the ω-conotoxins were effective in a mouse model of CisIPN. The intraplantar administration of 300 nM GVIA, MVIIA, and CVIF did not cause any locomotor side effects. The intraplantar administration of MVIIA can alleviate incision-induced mechanical allodynia, and GVIA and MVIIA effectively reduce OIPN associated mechanical pain, without locomotor side effects, in rodent models. In contrast, CVIF was inactive in these pain models, suggesting it is unable to block a subset of N-type voltage-gated calcium channels associated with nociceptors in the skin.
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Affiliation(s)
- Md. Mahadhi Hasan
- Division of Chemistry and Structural Biology, Institute for Molecular Bioscience, The University of Queensland, Brisbane, QLD 4072, Australia; (M.M.H.); (H.S.); (A.M.); (I.V.)
| | - Hana Starobova
- Division of Chemistry and Structural Biology, Institute for Molecular Bioscience, The University of Queensland, Brisbane, QLD 4072, Australia; (M.M.H.); (H.S.); (A.M.); (I.V.)
| | - Alexander Mueller
- Division of Chemistry and Structural Biology, Institute for Molecular Bioscience, The University of Queensland, Brisbane, QLD 4072, Australia; (M.M.H.); (H.S.); (A.M.); (I.V.)
| | - Irina Vetter
- Division of Chemistry and Structural Biology, Institute for Molecular Bioscience, The University of Queensland, Brisbane, QLD 4072, Australia; (M.M.H.); (H.S.); (A.M.); (I.V.)
- School of Pharmacy, The University of Queensland, Brisbane, QLD 4102, Australia
| | - Richard J. Lewis
- Division of Chemistry and Structural Biology, Institute for Molecular Bioscience, The University of Queensland, Brisbane, QLD 4072, Australia; (M.M.H.); (H.S.); (A.M.); (I.V.)
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33
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Fisher AS, Lanigan MT, Upton N, Lione LA. Preclinical Neuropathic Pain Assessment; the Importance of Translatability and Bidirectional Research. Front Pharmacol 2021; 11:614990. [PMID: 33628181 PMCID: PMC7897667 DOI: 10.3389/fphar.2020.614990] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/07/2020] [Accepted: 12/10/2020] [Indexed: 02/04/2023] Open
Abstract
For patients suffering with chronic neuropathic pain the need for suitable novel therapies is imperative. Over recent years a contributing factor for the lack of development of new analgesics for neuropathic pain has been the mismatch of primary neuropathic pain assessment endpoints in preclinical vs. clinical trials. Despite continuous forward translation failures across diverse mechanisms, reflexive quantitative sensory testing remains the primary assessment endpoint for neuropathic pain and analgesia in animals. Restricting preclinical evaluation of pain and analgesia to exclusively reflexive outcomes is over simplified and can be argued not clinically relevant due to the continued lack of forward translation and failures in the clinic. The key to developing new analgesic treatments for neuropathic pain therefore lies in the development of clinically relevant endpoints that can translate preclinical animal results to human clinical trials. In this review we discuss this mismatch of primary neuropathic pain assessment endpoints, together with clinical and preclinical evidence that supports how bidirectional research is helping to validate new clinically relevant neuropathic pain assessment endpoints. Ethological behavioral endpoints such as burrowing and facial grimacing and objective measures such as electroencephalography provide improved translatability potential together with currently used quantitative sensory testing endpoints. By tailoring objective and subjective measures of neuropathic pain the translatability of new medicines for patients suffering with neuropathic pain will hopefully be improved.
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Affiliation(s)
- Amy S. Fisher
- Transpharmation Ltd., The London Bioscience Innovation Centre, London, United Kingdom
| | - Michael T. Lanigan
- Transpharmation Ltd., The London Bioscience Innovation Centre, London, United Kingdom
- School of Life and Medical Sciences, University of Hertfordshire, Hatfield, United Kingdom
| | - Neil Upton
- Transpharmation Ltd., The London Bioscience Innovation Centre, London, United Kingdom
| | - Lisa A. Lione
- School of Life and Medical Sciences, University of Hertfordshire, Hatfield, United Kingdom
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34
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Hinckley CA, Kuryshev Y, Sers A, Barre A, Buisson B, Naik H, Hajos M. Characterization of Vixotrigine, a Broad-Spectrum Voltage-Gated Sodium Channel Blocker. Mol Pharmacol 2021; 99:49-59. [PMID: 33298520 DOI: 10.1124/molpharm.120.000079] [Citation(s) in RCA: 16] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/08/2020] [Accepted: 10/15/2020] [Indexed: 02/02/2023] Open
Abstract
Voltage-gated sodium channels (Navs) are promising targets for analgesic and antiepileptic therapies. Although specificity between Nav subtypes may be desirable to target specific neural types, such as nociceptors in pain, many broadly acting Nav inhibitors are clinically beneficial in neuropathic pain and epilepsy. Here, we present the first systematic characterization of vixotrigine, a Nav blocker. Using recombinant systems, we find that vixotrigine potency is enhanced in a voltage- and use-dependent manner, consistent with a state-dependent block of Navs. Furthermore, we find that vixotrigine potently inhibits sodium currents produced by both peripheral and central nervous system Nav subtypes, with use-dependent IC50 values between 1.76 and 5.12 μM. Compared with carbamazepine, vixotrigine shows higher potency and more profound state-dependent inhibition but a similar broad spectrum of action distinct from Nav1.7- and Nav1.8-specific blockers. We find that vixotrigine rapidly inhibits Navs and prolongs recovery from the fast-inactivated state. In native rodent dorsal root ganglion sodium channels, we find that vixotrigine shifts steady-state inactivation curves. Based on these results, we conclude that vixotrigine is a broad-spectrum, state-dependent Nav blocker. SIGNIFICANCE STATEMENT: Vixotrigine blocks both peripheral and central voltage-gated sodium channel subtypes. Neurophysiological approaches in recombinant systems and sensory neurons suggest this block is state-dependent.
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Affiliation(s)
- Christopher A Hinckley
- Biogen, Cambridge, Massachusetts (C.A.H., H.N.); Charles River Laboratories Cleveland, Inc., Cleveland, Ohio (Y.K.); Neuroservice, Aix-en-Provence, France (A.S., A.B., B.B.); and Department of Comparative Medicine, Yale University, New Haven, Connecticut (M.H.)
| | - Yuri Kuryshev
- Biogen, Cambridge, Massachusetts (C.A.H., H.N.); Charles River Laboratories Cleveland, Inc., Cleveland, Ohio (Y.K.); Neuroservice, Aix-en-Provence, France (A.S., A.B., B.B.); and Department of Comparative Medicine, Yale University, New Haven, Connecticut (M.H.)
| | - Alissende Sers
- Biogen, Cambridge, Massachusetts (C.A.H., H.N.); Charles River Laboratories Cleveland, Inc., Cleveland, Ohio (Y.K.); Neuroservice, Aix-en-Provence, France (A.S., A.B., B.B.); and Department of Comparative Medicine, Yale University, New Haven, Connecticut (M.H.)
| | - Alexander Barre
- Biogen, Cambridge, Massachusetts (C.A.H., H.N.); Charles River Laboratories Cleveland, Inc., Cleveland, Ohio (Y.K.); Neuroservice, Aix-en-Provence, France (A.S., A.B., B.B.); and Department of Comparative Medicine, Yale University, New Haven, Connecticut (M.H.)
| | - Bruno Buisson
- Biogen, Cambridge, Massachusetts (C.A.H., H.N.); Charles River Laboratories Cleveland, Inc., Cleveland, Ohio (Y.K.); Neuroservice, Aix-en-Provence, France (A.S., A.B., B.B.); and Department of Comparative Medicine, Yale University, New Haven, Connecticut (M.H.)
| | - Himanshu Naik
- Biogen, Cambridge, Massachusetts (C.A.H., H.N.); Charles River Laboratories Cleveland, Inc., Cleveland, Ohio (Y.K.); Neuroservice, Aix-en-Provence, France (A.S., A.B., B.B.); and Department of Comparative Medicine, Yale University, New Haven, Connecticut (M.H.)
| | - Mihaly Hajos
- Biogen, Cambridge, Massachusetts (C.A.H., H.N.); Charles River Laboratories Cleveland, Inc., Cleveland, Ohio (Y.K.); Neuroservice, Aix-en-Provence, France (A.S., A.B., B.B.); and Department of Comparative Medicine, Yale University, New Haven, Connecticut (M.H.)
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35
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Eagles DA, Chow CY, King GF. Fifteen years of Na
V
1.7 channels as an analgesic target: Why has excellent in vitro pharmacology not translated into in vivo analgesic efficacy? Br J Pharmacol 2020; 179:3592-3611. [DOI: 10.1111/bph.15327] [Citation(s) in RCA: 12] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/22/2020] [Revised: 09/14/2020] [Accepted: 10/23/2020] [Indexed: 12/16/2022] Open
Affiliation(s)
- David A. Eagles
- Institute for Molecular Bioscience The University of Queensland St Lucia QLD Australia
| | - Chun Yuen Chow
- Institute for Molecular Bioscience The University of Queensland St Lucia QLD Australia
| | - Glenn F. King
- Institute for Molecular Bioscience The University of Queensland St Lucia QLD Australia
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36
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Lampert A, Bennett DL, McDermott LA, Neureiter A, Eberhardt E, Winner B, Zenke M. Human sensory neurons derived from pluripotent stem cells for disease modelling and personalized medicine. NEUROBIOLOGY OF PAIN 2020; 8:100055. [PMID: 33364527 PMCID: PMC7750732 DOI: 10.1016/j.ynpai.2020.100055] [Citation(s) in RCA: 19] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/10/2020] [Revised: 11/09/2020] [Accepted: 11/12/2020] [Indexed: 12/26/2022]
Abstract
New techniques emerge to study peripheral sensory neurons in iPS-cell derived models. Genetic pain syndromes, e.g. gain- and loss-of-function mutations in Nav-channels are helpful. Individualized treatment for neuropathic pain can be identified with iPS-cell derived nociceptors.
In this concise Mini-Review we will summarize ongoing developments of new techniques to study physiology and pathophysiology of the peripheral sensory nervous system in human stem cell derived models. We will focus on recent developments of reprogramming somatic cells into induced pluripotent stem cells, neural differentiation towards neuronal progenitors and human sensory neurons. We will sum up the high potential of this new technique for disease modelling of human neuropathies with a focus on genetic pain syndromes, such as gain- and loss-of-function mutations in voltage-gated sodium channels. The stem cell derived human sensory neurons are used for drug testing and we will summarize their usefulness for individualized treatment identification in patients with neuropathic pain. The review will give an outlook on potential application of this technique as companion diagnostics and for personalized medicine.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - David L Bennett
- Nuffield Department of Clinical Neurosciences, University of Oxford, UK
| | - Lucy A McDermott
- Nuffield Department of Clinical Neurosciences, University of Oxford, UK.,Wadham College, University of Oxford, UK
| | | | - Esther Eberhardt
- Department of Anesthesiology, FAU Erlangen-Nürnberg, Germany.,Department of Stem Cell Biology, FAU Erlangen-Nürnberg, Germany.,Department of Anesthesiology, RWTH Aachen University, Germany
| | - Beate Winner
- Department of Stem Cell Biology, FAU Erlangen-Nürnberg, Germany
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37
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The Specific Effects of OD-1, a Peptide Activator, on Voltage-Gated Sodium Current and Seizure Susceptibility. Int J Mol Sci 2020; 21:ijms21218254. [PMID: 33158049 PMCID: PMC7663472 DOI: 10.3390/ijms21218254] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/05/2020] [Revised: 10/24/2020] [Accepted: 10/29/2020] [Indexed: 12/12/2022] Open
Abstract
OD-1, a scorpion toxin, has been previously recognized as an activator of voltage-gated Na+ currents. To what extent this agent can alter hippocampal neuronal Na+ currents and network excitability and how it can be applied to neuronal hyperexcitability research remains unclear. With the aid of patch-clamp technology, it was revealed that, in mHippoE-14 hippocampal neurons, OD-1 produced a concentration-, time-, and state-dependent rise in the peak amplitude of INa. It shifted the INa inactivation curve to a less negative potential and increased the frequency of spontaneous action currents. Further characterization of neuronal excitability revealed higher excitability in the hippocampal slices treated with OD-1 as compared with the control slices. A stereotaxic intrahippocampal injection of OD-1 generated a significantly higher frequency of spontaneous seizures and epileptiform discharges compared with intraperitoneal injection of lithium-pilocarpine- or kainic acid-induced epilepsy, with comparable pathological changes. Carbamazepine significantly attenuated OD-1 induced seizures and epileptiform discharges. The OD-1-mediated modifications of INa altered the electrical activity of neurons in vivo and OD-1 could potentially serve as a novel seizure and excitotoxicity model.
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38
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Herzig V, Cristofori-Armstrong B, Israel MR, Nixon SA, Vetter I, King GF. Animal toxins - Nature's evolutionary-refined toolkit for basic research and drug discovery. Biochem Pharmacol 2020; 181:114096. [PMID: 32535105 PMCID: PMC7290223 DOI: 10.1016/j.bcp.2020.114096] [Citation(s) in RCA: 81] [Impact Index Per Article: 20.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/13/2020] [Revised: 06/06/2020] [Accepted: 06/09/2020] [Indexed: 12/27/2022]
Abstract
Venomous animals have evolved toxins that interfere with specific components of their victim's core physiological systems, thereby causing biological dysfunction that aids in prey capture, defense against predators, or other roles such as intraspecific competition. Many animal lineages evolved venom systems independently, highlighting the success of this strategy. Over the course of evolution, toxins with exceptional specificity and high potency for their intended molecular targets have prevailed, making venoms an invaluable and almost inexhaustible source of bioactive molecules, some of which have found use as pharmacological tools, human therapeutics, and bioinsecticides. Current biomedically-focused research on venoms is directed towards their use in delineating the physiological role of toxin molecular targets such as ion channels and receptors, studying or treating human diseases, targeting vectors of human diseases, and treating microbial and parasitic infections. We provide examples of each of these areas of venom research, highlighting the potential that venom molecules hold for basic research and drug development.
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Affiliation(s)
- Volker Herzig
- School of Science & Engineering, University of the Sunshine Coast, Sippy Downs, QLD, Australia; Institute for Molecular Bioscience, The University of Queensland, St. Lucia, QLD, Australia.
| | | | - Mathilde R Israel
- Institute for Molecular Bioscience, The University of Queensland, St. Lucia, QLD, Australia
| | - Samantha A Nixon
- Institute for Molecular Bioscience, The University of Queensland, St. Lucia, QLD, Australia
| | - Irina Vetter
- Institute for Molecular Bioscience, The University of Queensland, St. Lucia, QLD, Australia
| | - Glenn F King
- Institute for Molecular Bioscience, The University of Queensland, St. Lucia, QLD, Australia.
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39
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Alsaloum M, Higerd GP, Effraim PR, Waxman SG. Status of peripheral sodium channel blockers for non-addictive pain treatment. Nat Rev Neurol 2020; 16:689-705. [PMID: 33110213 DOI: 10.1038/s41582-020-00415-2] [Citation(s) in RCA: 75] [Impact Index Per Article: 18.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 09/10/2020] [Indexed: 12/15/2022]
Abstract
The effective and safe treatment of pain is an unmet health-care need. Current medications used for pain management are often only partially effective, carry dose-limiting adverse effects and are potentially addictive, highlighting the need for improved therapeutic agents. Most common pain conditions originate in the periphery, where dorsal root ganglion and trigeminal ganglion neurons feed pain information into the CNS. Voltage-gated sodium (NaV) channels drive neuronal excitability and three subtypes - NaV1.7, NaV1.8 and NaV1.9 - are preferentially expressed in the peripheral nervous system, suggesting that their inhibition might treat pain while avoiding central and cardiac adverse effects. Genetic and functional studies of human pain disorders have identified NaV1.7, NaV1.8 and NaV1.9 as mediators of pain and validated them as targets for pain treatment. Consequently, multiple NaV1.7-specific and NaV1.8-specific blockers have undergone clinical trials, with others in preclinical development, and the targeting of NaV1.9, although hampered by technical constraints, might also be moving ahead. In this Review, we summarize the clinical and preclinical literature describing compounds that target peripheral NaV channels and discuss the challenges and future prospects for the field. Although the potential of peripheral NaV channel inhibition for the treatment of pain has yet to be realized, this remains a promising strategy to achieve non-addictive analgesia for multiple pain conditions.
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Affiliation(s)
- Matthew Alsaloum
- Department of Neurology, Yale University School of Medicine, New Haven, CT, USA.,Center for Neuroscience & Regeneration Research, Yale University, West Haven, CT, USA.,Center for Rehabilitation Research, VA Connecticut Healthcare System, West Haven, CT, USA.,Yale Medical Scientist Training Program, Yale School of Medicine, New Haven, CT, USA.,Interdepartmental Neuroscience Program, Yale School of Medicine, New Haven, CT, USA
| | - Grant P Higerd
- Department of Neurology, Yale University School of Medicine, New Haven, CT, USA.,Center for Neuroscience & Regeneration Research, Yale University, West Haven, CT, USA.,Center for Rehabilitation Research, VA Connecticut Healthcare System, West Haven, CT, USA.,Yale Medical Scientist Training Program, Yale School of Medicine, New Haven, CT, USA
| | - Philip R Effraim
- Center for Neuroscience & Regeneration Research, Yale University, West Haven, CT, USA.,Center for Rehabilitation Research, VA Connecticut Healthcare System, West Haven, CT, USA.,Department of Anesthesiology, Yale School of Medicine, New Haven, CT, USA
| | - Stephen G Waxman
- Department of Neurology, Yale University School of Medicine, New Haven, CT, USA. .,Center for Neuroscience & Regeneration Research, Yale University, West Haven, CT, USA. .,Center for Rehabilitation Research, VA Connecticut Healthcare System, West Haven, CT, USA.
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40
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Peigneur S, da Costa Oliveira C, de Sousa Fonseca FC, McMahon KL, Mueller A, Cheneval O, Cristina Nogueira Freitas A, Starobova H, Dimitri Gama Duarte I, Craik DJ, Vetter I, de Lima ME, Schroeder CI, Tytgat J. Small cyclic sodium channel inhibitors. Biochem Pharmacol 2020; 183:114291. [PMID: 33075312 DOI: 10.1016/j.bcp.2020.114291] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/15/2020] [Revised: 10/05/2020] [Accepted: 10/14/2020] [Indexed: 01/10/2023]
Abstract
Voltage-gated sodium (NaV) channels play crucial roles in a range of (patho)physiological processes. Much interest has arisen within the pharmaceutical industry to pursue these channels as analgesic targets following overwhelming evidence that NaV channel subtypes NaV1.7-NaV1.9 are involved in nociception. More recently, NaV1.1, NaV1.3 and NaV1.6 have also been identified to be involved in pain pathways. Venom-derived disulfide-rich peptide toxins, isolated from spiders and cone snails, have been used extensively as probes to investigate these channels and have attracted much interest as drug leads. However, few peptide-based leads have made it as drugs due to unfavourable physiochemical attributes including poor in vivo pharmacokinetics and limited oral bioavailability. The present work aims to bridge the gap in the development pipeline between drug leads and drug candidates by downsizing these larger venom-derived NaV inhibitors into smaller, more "drug-like" molecules. Here, we use molecular engineering of small cyclic peptides to aid in the determination of what drives subtype selectivity and molecular interactions of these downsized inhibitors across NaV subtypes. We designed a series of small, stable and novel NaV probes displaying NaV subtype selectivity and potency in vitro coupled with potent in vivo analgesic activity, involving yet to be elucidated analgesic pathways in addition to NaV subtype modulation.
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Affiliation(s)
- Steve Peigneur
- Toxicology and Pharmacology, Katholieke Universiteit (KU) Leuven, Campus Gasthuisberg, Leuven, Belgium; Department de Bioquímica e Imunologia, Laboratório de Venenos e Toxinas Animais, Instituto de Ciências Biológicas, Universidade Federal de Minas Gerais, Belo-Horizonte, Brazil
| | - Cristina da Costa Oliveira
- Department of Pharmacology, Institute of Biological Sciences, Federal University of Minas Gerais (UFMG), Belo Horizonte, Minas Gerais, Brazil
| | - Flávia Cristina de Sousa Fonseca
- Department of Pharmacology, Institute of Biological Sciences, Federal University of Minas Gerais (UFMG), Belo Horizonte, Minas Gerais, Brazil
| | - Kirsten L McMahon
- Institute for Molecular Bioscience, The University of Queensland, Brisbane, Qld 4072, Australia
| | - Alexander Mueller
- Institute for Molecular Bioscience, The University of Queensland, Brisbane, Qld 4072, Australia
| | - Olivier Cheneval
- Institute for Molecular Bioscience, The University of Queensland, Brisbane, Qld 4072, Australia
| | - Ana Cristina Nogueira Freitas
- Department de Bioquímica e Imunologia, Laboratório de Venenos e Toxinas Animais, Instituto de Ciências Biológicas, Universidade Federal de Minas Gerais, Belo-Horizonte, Brazil
| | - Hana Starobova
- Institute for Molecular Bioscience, The University of Queensland, Brisbane, Qld 4072, Australia
| | - Igor Dimitri Gama Duarte
- Department of Pharmacology, Institute of Biological Sciences, Federal University of Minas Gerais (UFMG), Belo Horizonte, Minas Gerais, Brazil
| | - David J Craik
- Institute for Molecular Bioscience, The University of Queensland, Brisbane, Qld 4072, Australia
| | - Irina Vetter
- Institute for Molecular Bioscience, The University of Queensland, Brisbane, Qld 4072, Australia; School of Pharmacy, The University of Queensland, Woolloongabba, Qld 4102, Australia
| | - Maria Elena de Lima
- Department de Bioquímica e Imunologia, Laboratório de Venenos e Toxinas Animais, Instituto de Ciências Biológicas, Universidade Federal de Minas Gerais, Belo-Horizonte, Brazil; Santa Casa de Belo Horizonte: Instituto de Ensino e Pesquisa, Brazil
| | - Christina I Schroeder
- Institute for Molecular Bioscience, The University of Queensland, Brisbane, Qld 4072, Australia; National Cancer Institute, National Institutes of Health, Frederick, MD 21702, USA.
| | - Jan Tytgat
- Toxicology and Pharmacology, Katholieke Universiteit (KU) Leuven, Campus Gasthuisberg, Leuven, Belgium.
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41
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Zhang R, Zhang Z, Wang K, Wang J. Difluoroketenimine: Generation from Difluorocarbene and Isocyanide and Its [3 + 2] Cycloadditions with Alkenes or Alkynes. J Org Chem 2020; 85:9791-9800. [PMID: 32633508 DOI: 10.1021/acs.joc.0c01120] [Citation(s) in RCA: 13] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/17/2022]
Abstract
Ketenimines have been explored as useful building blocks for the synthesis of heteroatom-containing cyclic compounds through the cycloaddition with polar multiple bonds. Herein, we report the cycloaddition of difluoroketenimine with nonpolar multiple bonds, namely, the cycloaddition with alkenes or alkynes. The difluoroketenimine is generated from the coupling of tert-butyl isocyanide and difluorocarbene, which is formed in situ from (bromodifluoromethyl)trimethylsilane. The difluoroketenimine then reacts in situ with alkenes or alkynes to afford fluorinated pyrrolidines or pyrroles. DFT study suggests that a fluorinated cyclic (alkyl)(amino)carbene is involved as the key intermediate in these reactions.
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Affiliation(s)
- Rui Zhang
- Beijing National Laboratory of Molecular Sciences (BNLMS), Key Laboratory of Bioorganic Chemistry and Molecular Engineering of Ministry of Education, College of Chemistry, Peking University, Beijing 100871, China
| | - Zhikun Zhang
- Beijing National Laboratory of Molecular Sciences (BNLMS), Key Laboratory of Bioorganic Chemistry and Molecular Engineering of Ministry of Education, College of Chemistry, Peking University, Beijing 100871, China
| | - Kang Wang
- Beijing National Laboratory of Molecular Sciences (BNLMS), Key Laboratory of Bioorganic Chemistry and Molecular Engineering of Ministry of Education, College of Chemistry, Peking University, Beijing 100871, China
| | - Jianbo Wang
- Beijing National Laboratory of Molecular Sciences (BNLMS), Key Laboratory of Bioorganic Chemistry and Molecular Engineering of Ministry of Education, College of Chemistry, Peking University, Beijing 100871, China
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42
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Gao S, Na R, Yang L, Yu H, Zhao X, Huang X. Investigation of binding modes of spider toxin–human voltage-gated sodium channel subtybe 1.7. J Biomol Struct Dyn 2020; 39:4981-4989. [DOI: 10.1080/07391102.2020.1783363] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/24/2022]
Affiliation(s)
- Shasha Gao
- Laboratory of Theoretical and Computational Chemistry, Institute of Theoretical Chemistry, Jilin University, Changchun, China
| | - Risong Na
- College of plant protection, Henan Agricultural University, Zhengzhou, P.R China
| | - Lianjuan Yang
- Department of Mycology, Shanghai Dermatology Hospital, Shanghai, China
| | - Hui Yu
- College of Science, Beihua Univesrity, Jilin, China
| | - Xi Zhao
- Laboratory of Theoretical and Computational Chemistry, Institute of Theoretical Chemistry, Jilin University, Changchun, China
| | - Xuri Huang
- College of plant protection, Henan Agricultural University, Zhengzhou, P.R China
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43
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Tian JJ, Tan CY, Chen QY, Zhou Y, Qu ZW, Zhang M, Ma KT, Shi WY, Li L, Si JQ. Upregulation of Nav1.7 by endogenous hydrogen sulfide contributes to maintenance of neuropathic pain. Int J Mol Med 2020; 46:782-794. [PMID: 32468069 PMCID: PMC7307826 DOI: 10.3892/ijmm.2020.4611] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/27/2020] [Accepted: 05/06/2020] [Indexed: 01/26/2023] Open
Abstract
Nav1.7 is closely associated with neuropathic pain. Hydrogen sulfide (H2S) has recently been reported to be involved in numerous biological functions, and it has been shown that H2S can enhance the sodium current density, and inhibiting the endogenous production of H2S mediated by cystathionine β-synthetase (CBS) using O-(carboxymethyl) hydroxylamine hemihydrochloride (AOAA) can significantly reduce the expression of Nav1.7 and thus the sodium current density in rat dorsal root ganglion (DRG) neurons. In the present study, it was shown that the fluorescence intensity of H2S was increased in a spared nerve injury (SNI) model and AOAA inhibited this increase. Nav1.7 is expressed in DRG neurons, and the expression of CBS and Nav1.7 were increased in DRG neurons 7, 14 and 21 days post-operation. AOAA inhibited the increase in the expression of CBS, phosphorylated (p)-MEK1/2, p-ERK1/2 and Nav1.7 induced by SNI, and U0126 (a MEK blocker) was able to inhibit the increase in p-MEK1/2, p-ERK1/2 and Nav1.7 expression. However, PF-04856264 did not inhibit the increase in CBS, p-MEK1/2, p-ERK1/2 or Nav1.7 expression induced by SNI surgery. The current density of Nav1.7 was significantly increased in the SNI model and administration of AOAA and U0126 both significantly decreased the density. In addition, AOAA, U0126 and PF-04856264 inhibited the decrease in rheobase, and the increase in action potential induced by SNI in DRG neurons. There was no significant difference in thermal withdrawal latency among each group. However, the time the animals spent with their paw lifted increased significantly following SNI, and the time the animals spent with their paw lifted decreased significantly following the administration of AOAA, U0126 and PF-04856264. In conclusion, these data show that Nav1.7 expression in DRG neurons is upregulated by CBS-derived endogenous H2S in an SNI model, contributing to the maintenance of neuropathic pain.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jun-Jie Tian
- Department of Physiology, Shihezi University Medical College, Shihezi, Xinjiang 832002, P.R. China
| | - Chao-Yang Tan
- Department of Physiology, Shihezi University Medical College, Shihezi, Xinjiang 832002, P.R. China
| | - Qin-Yi Chen
- Department of Physiology, Shihezi University Medical College, Shihezi, Xinjiang 832002, P.R. China
| | - Ying Zhou
- Department of Physiology, Shihezi University Medical College, Shihezi, Xinjiang 832002, P.R. China
| | - Zu-Wei Qu
- Department of Pharmacology, Shihezi University Pharmaceutical College, Shihezi, Xinjiang 832002, P.R. China
| | - Meng Zhang
- First Affiliated Hospital of Shihezi University, Shihezi, Xinjiang 832002, P.R. China
| | - Ke-Tao Ma
- Department of Physiology, Shihezi University Medical College, Shihezi, Xinjiang 832002, P.R. China
| | - Wen-Yan Shi
- Department of Physiology, Shihezi University Medical College, Shihezi, Xinjiang 832002, P.R. China
| | - Li Li
- Department of Physiology, Jiaxing University Medical College, Jiaxing, Zhejiang 314001, P.R. China
| | - Jun-Qiang Si
- Department of Physiology, Shihezi University Medical College, Shihezi, Xinjiang 832002, P.R. China
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44
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Antiallodynic effects of the selective NaV1.7 inhibitor Pn3a in a mouse model of acute postsurgical pain: evidence for analgesic synergy with opioids and baclofen. Pain 2020; 160:1766-1780. [PMID: 31335646 DOI: 10.1097/j.pain.0000000000001567] [Citation(s) in RCA: 27] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/25/2022]
Abstract
Pain is the leading cause of disability in the developed world but remains a poorly treated condition. Specifically, postsurgical pain continues to be a frequent and undermanaged condition. Here, we investigate the analgesic potential of pharmacological NaV1.7 inhibition in a mouse model of acute postsurgical pain, based on incision of the plantar skin and underlying muscle of the hind paw. We demonstrate that local and systemic treatment with the selective NaV1.7 inhibitor μ-theraphotoxin-Pn3a is effectively antiallodynic in this model and completely reverses mechanical hypersensitivity in the absence of motor adverse effects. In addition, the selective NaV1.7 inhibitors ProTx-II and PF-04856264 as well as the clinical candidate CNV1014802 also reduced mechanical allodynia. Interestingly, co-administration of the opioid receptor antagonist naloxone completely reversed analgesic effects of Pn3a, indicating an involvement of endogenous opioids in the analgesic activity of Pn3a. In addition, we found superadditive antinociceptive effects of subtherapeutic Pn3a doses not only with the opioid oxycodone but also with the GABAB receptor agonist baclofen. Transcriptomic analysis of gene expression changes in dorsal root ganglia of mice after surgery did not reveal any changes in mRNA expression of endogenous opioids or opioid receptors; however, several genes involved in pain, including Runx1 (Runt related transcription factor 1), Cacna1a (CaV2.1), and Cacna1b (CaV2.2), were downregulated. In summary, these findings suggest that pain after surgery can be successfully treated with NaV1.7 inhibitors alone or in combination with baclofen or opioids, which may present a novel and safe treatment strategy for this frequent and poorly managed condition.
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Agwa AJ, Tran P, Mueller A, Tran HNT, Deuis JR, Israel MR, McMahon KL, Craik DJ, Vetter I, Schroeder CI. Manipulation of a spider peptide toxin alters its affinity for lipid bilayers and potency and selectivity for voltage-gated sodium channel subtype 1.7. J Biol Chem 2020; 295:5067-5080. [PMID: 32139508 PMCID: PMC7152767 DOI: 10.1074/jbc.ra119.012281] [Citation(s) in RCA: 12] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/11/2019] [Revised: 03/03/2020] [Indexed: 02/05/2023] Open
Abstract
Huwentoxin-IV (HwTx-IV) is a gating modifier peptide toxin from spiders that has weak affinity for the lipid bilayer. As some gating modifier toxins have affinity for model lipid bilayers, a tripartite relationship among gating modifier toxins, voltage-gated ion channels, and the lipid membrane surrounding the channels has been proposed. We previously designed an HwTx-IV analogue (gHwTx-IV) with reduced negative charge and increased hydrophobic surface profile, which displays increased lipid bilayer affinity and in vitro activity at the voltage-gated sodium channel subtype 1.7 (NaV1.7), a channel targeted in pain management. Here, we show that replacements of the positively-charged residues that contribute to the activity of the peptide can improve gHwTx-IV's potency and selectivity for NaV1.7. Using HwTx-IV, gHwTx-IV, [R26A]gHwTx-IV, [K27A]gHwTx-IV, and [R29A]gHwTx-IV variants, we examined their potency and selectivity at human NaV1.7 and their affinity for the lipid bilayer. [R26A]gHwTx-IV consistently displayed the most improved potency and selectivity for NaV1.7, examined alongside off-target NaVs, compared with HwTx-IV and gHwTx-IV. The lipid affinity of each of the three novel analogues was weaker than that of gHwTx-IV, but stronger than that of HwTx-IV, suggesting a possible relationship between in vitro potency at NaV1.7 and affinity for lipid bilayers. In a murine NaV1.7 engagement model, [R26A]gHwTx-IV exhibited an efficacy comparable with that of native HwTx-IV. In summary, this study reports the development of an HwTx-IV analogue with improved in vitro selectivity for the pain target NaV1.7 and with an in vivo efficacy similar to that of native HwTx-IV.
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Affiliation(s)
- Akello J Agwa
- Institute for Molecular Bioscience, Centre for Pain Research, The University of Queensland, Brisbane, Queensland 4072, Australia
| | - Poanna Tran
- Institute for Molecular Bioscience, Centre for Pain Research, The University of Queensland, Brisbane, Queensland 4072, Australia
| | - Alexander Mueller
- Institute for Molecular Bioscience, Centre for Pain Research, The University of Queensland, Brisbane, Queensland 4072, Australia
| | - Hue N T Tran
- Institute for Molecular Bioscience, Centre for Pain Research, The University of Queensland, Brisbane, Queensland 4072, Australia
| | - Jennifer R Deuis
- Institute for Molecular Bioscience, Centre for Pain Research, The University of Queensland, Brisbane, Queensland 4072, Australia
| | - Mathilde R Israel
- Institute for Molecular Bioscience, Centre for Pain Research, The University of Queensland, Brisbane, Queensland 4072, Australia
| | - Kirsten L McMahon
- Institute for Molecular Bioscience, Centre for Pain Research, The University of Queensland, Brisbane, Queensland 4072, Australia
| | - David J Craik
- Institute for Molecular Bioscience, Centre for Pain Research, The University of Queensland, Brisbane, Queensland 4072, Australia
| | - Irina Vetter
- Institute for Molecular Bioscience, Centre for Pain Research, The University of Queensland, Brisbane, Queensland 4072, Australia
- School of Pharmacy, The University of Queensland, Woolloongabba, Queensland 4103, Australia
| | - Christina I Schroeder
- Institute for Molecular Bioscience, Centre for Pain Research, The University of Queensland, Brisbane, Queensland 4072, Australia
- National Cancer Institute, National Institutes of Health, Frederick, Maryland 21702, USA
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Mueller A, Dekan Z, Kaas Q, Agwa AJ, Starobova H, Alewood PF, Schroeder CI, Mobli M, Deuis JR, Vetter I. Mapping the Molecular Surface of the Analgesic Na V1.7-Selective Peptide Pn3a Reveals Residues Essential for Membrane and Channel Interactions. ACS Pharmacol Transl Sci 2020; 3:535-546. [PMID: 32566918 DOI: 10.1021/acsptsci.0c00002] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/07/2020] [Indexed: 12/18/2022]
Abstract
Compelling human genetic studies have identified the voltage-gated sodium channel NaV1.7 as a promising therapeutic target for the treatment of pain. The analgesic spider-venom-derived peptide μ-theraphotoxin-Pn3a is an exceptionally potent and selective inhibitor of NaV1.7; however, little is known about the structure-activity relationships or channel interactions that define this activity. We rationally designed 17 Pn3a analogues and determined their activity at hNaV1.7 using patch-clamp electrophysiology. The positively charged amino acids K22 and K24 were identified as crucial for Pn3a activity, with molecular modeling identifying interactions of these residues with the S3-S4 loop of domain II of hNaV1.7. Removal of hydrophobic residues Y4, Y27, and W30 led to a loss of potency (>250-fold), while replacement of negatively charged D1 and D8 residues with a positively charged lysine led to increased potencies (>13-fold), likely through alterations in membrane lipid interactions. Mutating D8 to an asparagine led to the greatest improvement in Pn3a potency at NaV1.7 (20-fold), while maintaining >100-fold selectivity over the major off-targets NaV1.4, NaV1.5, and NaV1.6. The Pn3a[D8N] mutant retained analgesic activity in vivo, significantly attenuating mechanical allodynia in a clinically relevant mouse model of postsurgical pain at doses 3-fold lower than those with wild-type Pn3a, without causing motor-adverse effects. Results from this study will facilitate future rational design of potent and selective peptidic NaV1.7 inhibitors for the development of more efficacious and safer analgesics as well as to further investigate the involvement of NaV1.7 in pain.
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Affiliation(s)
- Alexander Mueller
- Institute for Molecular Bioscience, The University of Queensland, 306 Carmody Road, St. Lucia, Queensland 4072, Australia
| | - Zoltan Dekan
- Institute for Molecular Bioscience, The University of Queensland, 306 Carmody Road, St. Lucia, Queensland 4072, Australia
| | - Quentin Kaas
- Institute for Molecular Bioscience, The University of Queensland, 306 Carmody Road, St. Lucia, Queensland 4072, Australia
| | - Akello J Agwa
- Institute for Molecular Bioscience, The University of Queensland, 306 Carmody Road, St. Lucia, Queensland 4072, Australia
| | - Hana Starobova
- Institute for Molecular Bioscience, The University of Queensland, 306 Carmody Road, St. Lucia, Queensland 4072, Australia
| | - Paul F Alewood
- Institute for Molecular Bioscience, The University of Queensland, 306 Carmody Road, St. Lucia, Queensland 4072, Australia
| | - Christina I Schroeder
- Institute for Molecular Bioscience, The University of Queensland, 306 Carmody Road, St. Lucia, Queensland 4072, Australia
| | - Mehdi Mobli
- Centre for Advanced Imaging, The University of Queensland, St. Lucia, Queensland 4072, Australia
| | - Jennifer R Deuis
- Institute for Molecular Bioscience, The University of Queensland, 306 Carmody Road, St. Lucia, Queensland 4072, Australia
| | - Irina Vetter
- Institute for Molecular Bioscience, The University of Queensland, 306 Carmody Road, St. Lucia, Queensland 4072, Australia.,School of Pharmacy, The University of Queensland, Woolloongabba, Queensland 4102, Australia
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Kushnarev M, Pirvulescu IP, Candido KD, Knezevic NN. Neuropathic pain: preclinical and early clinical progress with voltage-gated sodium channel blockers. Expert Opin Investig Drugs 2020; 29:259-271. [PMID: 32070160 DOI: 10.1080/13543784.2020.1728254] [Citation(s) in RCA: 29] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/18/2022]
Abstract
Introduction: Neuropathic pain is a chronic condition that significantly affects the quality of life of millions of people globally. Most of the pharmacologic treatments currently in use demonstrate modest efficacy and over half of all patients do not respond to medical management. Hence, there is a need for new, efficacious drugs. Evidence points toward voltage-gated sodium channels as a key target for novel analgesics.Area covered: The role of voltage-gated sodium channels in pain pathophysiology is illuminated and the preclinical and clinical data for new sodium channel blockers and toxin-derived lead compounds are examined. The expansion of approved sodium channel blockers is discussed along with the limitations of current research, trends in drug development, and the potential of personalized medicine.Expert opinion: The transition from preclinical to clinical studies can be difficult because of the inherent inability of animal models to express the complexities of pain states. Pain pathways are notoriously intricate and may be pharmacologically modulated at a variety of targets; it is unlikely that action at a single target could completely abolish a pain response because pain is rarely unifactorial. Combination therapy may be necessary and this could further confound the discovery of novel agents.
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Affiliation(s)
- Mikhail Kushnarev
- Department of Anesthesiology, Advocate Illinois Masonic Medical Center, Chicago, IL, USA
| | - Iulia Paula Pirvulescu
- Department of Anesthesiology, Advocate Illinois Masonic Medical Center, Chicago, IL, USA
| | - Kenneth D Candido
- Department of Anesthesiology, Advocate Illinois Masonic Medical Center, Chicago, IL, USA.,Department of Anesthesiology, College of Medicine, University of Illinois, Chicago, IL, USA.,Department of Surgery, College of Medicine, University of Illinois, Chicago, IL, USA
| | - Nebojsa Nick Knezevic
- Department of Anesthesiology, Advocate Illinois Masonic Medical Center, Chicago, IL, USA.,Department of Anesthesiology, College of Medicine, University of Illinois, Chicago, IL, USA.,Department of Surgery, College of Medicine, University of Illinois, Chicago, IL, USA
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Ballas SK, Darbari DS. Review/overview of pain in sickle cell disease. Complement Ther Med 2020; 49:102327. [PMID: 32147066 DOI: 10.1016/j.ctim.2020.102327] [Citation(s) in RCA: 27] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/05/2019] [Revised: 01/22/2020] [Accepted: 01/22/2020] [Indexed: 12/28/2022] Open
Abstract
Sickle cell disease (SCD) is a highly complex inherited disorder of hemoglobin structure. Although the molecular lesion is a single-point mutation, the sickle gene is pleiotropic in nature causing multiple phenotypic expressions that constitute the various complications of the disease. Its manifestations could be acute, chronic, nociceptive, neuropathic that could occur singly or in various combinations. Pain continues to be the major factor of SCD phenotypic complications and the most common cause of admissions to the Emergency Department and/or the hospital. Although progress has been made in understanding the pathophysiology of SCD as well as in developing curative therapies such as hematopoietic stem cell transplantation and gene therapy, effective pain management continues to lag behind. Palliative therapies continue to be the major approach to the management of SCD and its complications. The advent of hydroxyurea made partial success in preventing the frequency of vaso-occlusive crises and l-glutamine awaits post-trial confirmation of benefits. The search for additional pharmacotherapeutic agents that could be used singly or in combination with hydroxyurea and/or l-glutamine awaits their dawn hopefully in the near future. The purpose of this review is to describe the various manifestations of SCD, their pathophysiology and their current management. Recent impressive advances in understanding the pathophysiology of pain promise the determination of agents that could replace or minimize the use of opioids.
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Affiliation(s)
- Samir K Ballas
- Cardeza Foundation for Hematologic Research, Department of Medicine, Sidney Kimmel Medical College, Thomas Jefferson University, 1020 Locust Street, Philadelphia, PA, USA.
| | - Deepika S Darbari
- Division of Hematology, Center for Cancer and Blood Disorders, Children's National Medical Center, Washington, DC, USA
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Abstract
Snake and spider venoms have been developed by nature as a defense mechanism against predators or to immobilize their prey by blocking the cardiovascular, respiratory, and/or nervous systems. Consequently, predators are deterred from approaching their prey by painful sensations. At a molecular level, the targeted physiological systems are blocked or stimulated by peptide toxins which, once injected into the body, modulate, though not exclusively, important cell membrane ion channels and receptors. Millions of years of constant evolution have led to the evolvement of complex venom libraries of optimized protein toxins, making them more potent, more selective, resistant to proteases, less immunogenic, and improved in terms of pharmacokinetic (PK) properties. The resulting advantage is that they induce long-term and potent pharmacodynamic (PD) effects toward unique molecular targets of therapeutic importance such as coagulation cascade proteins, receptors, and ionic channels. This optimization process has been enabled by the diversification of peptide sequences (mainly by gene duplication) and an upscaling of the complexity of toxin peptide scaffold structures, through implementation of multiple disulfide bridges and sequence-active motif diversification, leading to a wide diversity of chemical structures. This combination of pharmaceutical properties has made venom toxins valuable both as pharmacological tools and as leads for drug development. These highly tunable molecules can be tailored to achieve desirable biocompatibility and biodegradability with simultaneously selective and potent therapeutic effects. This brief overview provides basic definitions, rules, and methodologies and describes successful examples of a few drugs developed from snake toxins that are currently used in the clinic for therapy of several diseases as well as new molecular entities in clinical development based on spider-venom-derived peptide toxins.
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Li ZM, Chen LX, Li H. Voltage-gated Sodium Channels and Blockers: An Overview and Where Will They Go? Curr Med Sci 2019; 39:863-873. [PMID: 31845216 DOI: 10.1007/s11596-019-2117-0] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/12/2018] [Revised: 09/02/2019] [Indexed: 11/27/2022]
Abstract
Voltage-gated sodium (Nav) channels are critical players in the generation and propagation of action potentials by triggering membrane depolarization. Mutations in Nav channels are associated with a variety of channelopathies, which makes them relevant targets for pharmaceutical intervention. So far, the cryoelectron microscopic structure of the human Nav1.2, Nav1.4, and Nav1.7 has been reported, which sheds light on the molecular basis of functional mechanism of Nav channels and provides a path toward structure-based drug discovery. In this review, we focus on the recent advances in the structure, molecular mechanism and modulation of Nav channels, and state updated sodium channel blockers for the treatment of pathophysiology disorders and briefly discuss where the blockers may be developed in the future.
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Affiliation(s)
- Zhi-Mei Li
- Hubei Key Laboratory of Natural Medicinal Chemistry and Resource Evaluation, School of Pharmacy, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, 430030, China
| | - Li-Xia Chen
- Wuya College of Innovation, Key Laboratory of Structure-Based Drug Design & Discovery, Ministry of Education, Shenyang Pharmaceutical University, Shenyang, 110016, China.
| | - Hua Li
- Hubei Key Laboratory of Natural Medicinal Chemistry and Resource Evaluation, School of Pharmacy, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, 430030, China.
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