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Dai J, Feng Y, Liao Y, Tan L, Sun Y, Song C, Qiu X, Ding C. Virus infection and sphingolipid metabolism. Antiviral Res 2024; 228:105942. [PMID: 38908521 DOI: 10.1016/j.antiviral.2024.105942] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/27/2024] [Revised: 06/14/2024] [Accepted: 06/19/2024] [Indexed: 06/24/2024]
Abstract
Cellular sphingolipids have vital roles in human virus replication and spread as they are exploited by viruses for cell entry, membrane fusion, genome replication, assembly, budding, and propagation. Intracellular sphingolipid biosynthesis triggers conformational changes in viral receptors and facilitates endosomal escape. However, our current understanding of how sphingolipids precisely regulate viral replication is limited, and further research is required to comprehensively understand the relationships between viral replication and endogenous sphingolipid species. Emerging evidence now suggests that targeting and manipulating sphingolipid metabolism enzymes in host cells is a promising strategy to effectively combat viral infections. Additionally, serum sphingolipid species and concentrations could function as potential serum biomarkers to help monitor viral infection status in different patients. In this work, we comprehensively review the literature to clarify how viruses exploit host sphingolipid metabolism to accommodate viral replication and disrupt host innate immune responses. We also provide valuable insights on the development and use of antiviral drugs in this area.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jun Dai
- Experimental Animal Center, Zunyi Medical University, Zunyi, 563099, China
| | - Yiyi Feng
- Shanghai Veterinary Research Institute, Chinese Academy of Agricultural Sciences, Shanghai 200241, China; Laboratory of Veterinary Microbiology and Animal Infectious Diseases, College of Animal Sciences and Veterinary Medicine, Guangxi University, Nanning, 530004, Guangxi China
| | - Ying Liao
- Shanghai Veterinary Research Institute, Chinese Academy of Agricultural Sciences, Shanghai 200241, China
| | - Lei Tan
- Shanghai Veterinary Research Institute, Chinese Academy of Agricultural Sciences, Shanghai 200241, China
| | - Yingjie Sun
- Shanghai Veterinary Research Institute, Chinese Academy of Agricultural Sciences, Shanghai 200241, China
| | - Cuiping Song
- Shanghai Veterinary Research Institute, Chinese Academy of Agricultural Sciences, Shanghai 200241, China
| | - Xusheng Qiu
- Shanghai Veterinary Research Institute, Chinese Academy of Agricultural Sciences, Shanghai 200241, China.
| | - Chan Ding
- Shanghai Veterinary Research Institute, Chinese Academy of Agricultural Sciences, Shanghai 200241, China; Jiangsu Co-innovation Center for Prevention and Control of Important Animal Infectious Diseases and Zoonoses, Yangzhou University, Yangzhou, 225009, China.
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Zhang N, Wang G, Yang L, Zhang J, Yuan Y, Ma L, Wang Z. Intravenous immunoglobulin alleviates Japanese encephalitis virus-induced peripheral neuropathy by inhibiting the ASM/ceramide pathway. Int Immunopharmacol 2024; 133:112083. [PMID: 38648714 DOI: 10.1016/j.intimp.2024.112083] [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: 10/17/2023] [Revised: 04/06/2024] [Accepted: 04/10/2024] [Indexed: 04/25/2024]
Abstract
Japanese encephalitis virus (JEV) infection is considered a global public health emergency. Severe peripheral neuropathy caused by JEV infection has increased disability and mortality rates in recent years. Because there are very few therapeutic options for JEV infection, prompt investigations of the ability of clinically safe, efficacious and globally available drugs to inhibit JEV infection and ameliorate peripheral neuropathy are urgently needed. In this study, we found that high doses of intravenous immunoglobulin, a function inhibitor of acid sphingomyelinase (FIASMA), inhibited acid sphingomyelinase (ASM) and ceramide activity in the serum and sciatic nerve of JEV-infected rats, reduced disease severity, reversed electrophysiological and histological abnormalities, significantly reduced circulating proinflammatory cytokine levels, inhibited Th1 and Th17 cell proliferation, and suppressed the infiltration of inflammatory CD4 + cells into the sciatic nerve. It also maintained the peripheral nerve-blood barrier without causing severe clinical side effects. In terms of the potential mechanisms, ASM was found to participate in immune cell differentiation and to activate immune cells, thereby exerting proinflammatory effects. Therefore, immunoglobulin is a FIASMA that reduces abnormal immune responses and thus targets the ASM/ceramide system to treat peripheral neuropathy caused by JEV infection.
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Affiliation(s)
- Na Zhang
- School of Clinical Medicine, Ningxia Medical University, Yinchuan, Ningxia, China; Neurology Center, General Hospital of Ningxia Medical University, Yinchuan, Ningxia, China
| | - Guowei Wang
- School of Clinical Medicine, Ningxia Medical University, Yinchuan, Ningxia, China
| | - Liping Yang
- School of Clinical Medicine, Ningxia Medical University, Yinchuan, Ningxia, China
| | - Jinyuan Zhang
- Neurology Center, General Hospital of Ningxia Medical University, Yinchuan, Ningxia, China
| | - YanPing Yuan
- School of Clinical Medicine, Ningxia Medical University, Yinchuan, Ningxia, China; Neurology Center, General Hospital of Ningxia Medical University, Yinchuan, Ningxia, China
| | - Lijun Ma
- Department of Human Anatomy, Histology and Embryology, School of Basic Medicine, Ningxia Medical University, Yinchuan, Ningxia, China
| | - Zhenhai Wang
- School of Clinical Medicine, Ningxia Medical University, Yinchuan, Ningxia, China; Diagnosis and Treatment Engineering Technology Research Center of Nervous System Diseases of Ningxia Hui Autonomous Region, General Hospital of Ningxia Medical University, Yinchuan, Ningxia, China.
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Wei TT, Xu W, Tu B, Zhang WX, Yang XX, Zhou Y, Zhang SS, Yang JL, Xie MZ, Du J, Chen WW, Lu QB. Plasma Metabonomics of Human Adenovirus-infected Patients with Pneumonia and Upper Respiratory Tract Infection. Curr Med Sci 2024; 44:121-133. [PMID: 38393525 DOI: 10.1007/s11596-024-2835-9] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/26/2023] [Accepted: 12/20/2023] [Indexed: 02/25/2024]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE Human adenovirus (HAdV) infection is common and can develop to serious conditions with high mortality, yet the mechanism of HAdV infection remains unclear. In the present study, the serum metabolite profiles of HAdV-7-infected patients with pneumonia or upper respiratory tract infection (URTI) were explored. METHODS In total, 35 patients were enrolled in the study following an outbreak of HAdV-7 in the army, of whom 14 had pneumonia and 21 had URTI. Blood samples were collected at the acute stage and at the recovery stage and were analyzed by untargeted metabolomics. RESULTS Over 90% of the differential metabolites identified between the pneumonia patients and URTI patients were lipids and lipid-like molecules, including glycerophospholipids, fatty acyls, and sphingolipids. The metabolic pathways that were significantly enriched were primarily the lipid metabolism pathways, including sphingolipid metabolism, glycerophospholipid metabolism, and linoleic acid metabolism. The sphingolipid metabolism was identified as a significantly differential pathway between the pneumonia patients and URTI patients and between the acute and recovery stages for the pneumonia patients, but not between the acute and recovery stages for the URTI patients. Ceramide and lactosylceramide, involved in sphingolipid metabolism, were significantly higher in the pneumonia patients than in the URTI patients with good discrimination abilities [area under curve (AUC) 0.742 and 0.716, respectively; combination AUC 0.801]. CONCLUSION Our results suggested that HAdV modulated lipid metabolism for both the patients with URTI and pneumonia, especially the sphingolipid metabolism involving ceramide and lactosylceramide, which might thus be a potential intervention target in the treatment of HAdV infection.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ting-Ting Wei
- Department of Epidemiology and Biostatistics, School of Public Health, Peking University, Beijing, 100191, China
| | - Wen Xu
- Department of Infectious Disease, The Fifth Medical Center of Chinese PLA General Hospital, National Clinical Research Center for Infectious Diseases, Beijing, 100039, China
| | - Bo Tu
- Department of Infectious Disease, The Fifth Medical Center of Chinese PLA General Hospital, National Clinical Research Center for Infectious Diseases, Beijing, 100039, China
| | - Wan-Xue Zhang
- Department of Laboratorial Science and Technology & Vaccine Research Center, School of Public Health, Peking University, Beijing, 100191, China
| | - Xin-Xin Yang
- Department of Infectious Disease, The Fifth Medical Center of Chinese PLA General Hospital, National Clinical Research Center for Infectious Diseases, Beijing, 100039, China
| | - Yiguo Zhou
- Department of Health Policy and Management, School of Public Health, Peking University, Beijing, 100191, China
| | - Shan-Shan Zhang
- Global Center for Infectious Disease and Policy Research & Global Health and Infectious Diseases Group, Peking University, Beijing, 100191, China
| | - Jun-Lian Yang
- Department of Infectious Disease, The Fifth Medical Center of Chinese PLA General Hospital, National Clinical Research Center for Infectious Diseases, Beijing, 100039, China
| | - Ming-Zhu Xie
- Global Center for Infectious Disease and Policy Research & Global Health and Infectious Diseases Group, Peking University, Beijing, 100191, China
| | - Juan Du
- Department of Laboratorial Science and Technology & Vaccine Research Center, School of Public Health, Peking University, Beijing, 100191, China
| | - Wei-Wei Chen
- Department of Infectious Disease, The Fifth Medical Center of Chinese PLA General Hospital, National Clinical Research Center for Infectious Diseases, Beijing, 100039, China
| | - Qing-Bin Lu
- Department of Epidemiology and Biostatistics, School of Public Health, Peking University, Beijing, 100191, China.
- Department of Laboratorial Science and Technology & Vaccine Research Center, School of Public Health, Peking University, Beijing, 100191, China.
- Department of Health Policy and Management, School of Public Health, Peking University, Beijing, 100191, China.
- Global Center for Infectious Disease and Policy Research & Global Health and Infectious Diseases Group, Peking University, Beijing, 100191, China.
- Key Laboratory of Epidemiology of Major Diseases (Peking University), Ministry of Education, Beijing, 100191, China.
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Thomas S, Samuel SV, Hoch A, Syphurs C, Diray-Arce J. The Implication of Sphingolipids in Viral Infections. Int J Mol Sci 2023; 24:17303. [PMID: 38139132 PMCID: PMC10743733 DOI: 10.3390/ijms242417303] [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: 10/28/2023] [Revised: 12/03/2023] [Accepted: 12/06/2023] [Indexed: 12/24/2023] Open
Abstract
Sphingolipids are involved in cell signaling and metabolic pathways, and their metabolites play a critical role in host defense against intracellular pathogens. Here, we review the known mechanisms of sphingolipids in viral infections and discuss the potential implication of the study of sphingolipid metabolism in vaccine and therapeutic development.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sanya Thomas
- Precision Vaccines Program, Department of Pediatrics, Boston Children’s Hospital, Boston, MA 02115, USA; (S.T.); (A.H.); (C.S.)
- Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA 02115, USA;
| | - Stephen Varghese Samuel
- Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA 02115, USA;
- Department of Emergency Medicine, Christian Medical College and Hospital, Vellore 632004, India
| | - Annmarie Hoch
- Precision Vaccines Program, Department of Pediatrics, Boston Children’s Hospital, Boston, MA 02115, USA; (S.T.); (A.H.); (C.S.)
| | - Caitlin Syphurs
- Precision Vaccines Program, Department of Pediatrics, Boston Children’s Hospital, Boston, MA 02115, USA; (S.T.); (A.H.); (C.S.)
| | - Joann Diray-Arce
- Precision Vaccines Program, Department of Pediatrics, Boston Children’s Hospital, Boston, MA 02115, USA; (S.T.); (A.H.); (C.S.)
- Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA 02115, USA;
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Naz A, Asif S, Alwutayd KM, Sarfaraz S, Abbasi SW, Abbasi A, Alenazi AM, Hasan ME. Repurposing FIASMAs against Acid Sphingomyelinase for COVID-19: A Computational Molecular Docking and Dynamic Simulation Approach. Molecules 2023; 28:molecules28072989. [PMID: 37049752 PMCID: PMC10096053 DOI: 10.3390/molecules28072989] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/28/2023] [Revised: 03/16/2023] [Accepted: 03/24/2023] [Indexed: 03/30/2023] Open
Abstract
Over the past few years, COVID-19 has caused widespread suffering worldwide. There is great research potential in this domain and it is also necessary. The main objective of this study was to identify potential inhibitors against acid sphingomyelinase (ASM) in order to prevent coronavirus infection. Experimental studies revealed that SARS-CoV-2 causes activation of the acid sphingomyelinase/ceramide pathway, which in turn facilitates the viral entry into the cells. The objective was to inhibit acid sphingomyelinase activity in order to prevent the cells from SARS-CoV-2 infection. Previous studies have reported functional inhibitors against ASM (FIASMAs). These inhibitors can be exploited to block the entry of SARS-CoV-2 into the cells. To achieve our objective, a drug library containing 257 functional inhibitors of ASM was constructed. Computational molecular docking was applied to dock the library against the target protein (PDB: 5I81). The potential binding site of the target protein was identified through structural alignment with the known binding pocket of a protein with a similar function. AutoDock Vina was used to carry out the docking steps. The docking results were analyzed and the inhibitors were screened based on their binding affinity scores and ADME properties. Among the 257 functional inhibitors, Dutasteride, Cepharanthine, and Zafirlukast presented the lowest binding affinity scores of −9.7, −9.6, and −9.5 kcal/mol, respectively. Furthermore, computational ADME analysis of these results revealed Cepharanthine and Zafirlukast to have non-toxic properties. To further validate these findings, the top two inhibitors in complex with the target protein were subjected to molecular dynamic simulations at 100 ns. The molecular interactions and stability of these compounds revealed that these inhibitors could be a promising tool for inhibiting SARS-CoV-2 infection.
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Affiliation(s)
- Aliza Naz
- National Center for Bioinformatics, Quaid-i-Azam University, Islamabad 45320, Pakistan
- Department of Bioinformatics and Biotechnology, International Islamic University, Islamabad 44000, Pakistan
| | - Sumbul Asif
- Department of Bioinformatics and Biotechnology, International Islamic University, Islamabad 44000, Pakistan
- School of Interdisciplinary Engineering and Sciences, National University of Sciences and Technology, Islamabad 44000, Pakistan
| | - Khairiah Mubarak Alwutayd
- Department of Biology, College of Science, Princess Nourah bint Abdulrahman University, P.O. Box 84428, Riyadh 11671, Saudi Arabia
| | - Sara Sarfaraz
- Department of Bioinformatics, Kohsar University Murree, Murree 47150, Pakistan
- Correspondence:
| | - Sumra Wajid Abbasi
- Department of Biological Sciences, National University of Medical Sciences, Rawalpindi 46000, Pakistan
| | - Asim Abbasi
- Department of Environmental Sciences, Kohsar University Murree, Murree 47150, Pakistan
| | - Abdulkareem M. Alenazi
- Pediatric Senior Registrar, King Salman Armed Forces Hospital in Northwestern Region (KSAFH), Tabuk 47512, Saudi Arabia
| | - Mohamed E. Hasan
- Bioinformatic Department, Genetic Engineering and Biotechnology Research Institute, University of Sadat City, Sadat City 32897, Egypt
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Convergent Evolution Dynamics of SARS-CoV-2 and HIV Surface Envelope Glycoproteins Driven by Host Cell Surface Receptors and Lipid Rafts: Lessons for the Future. Int J Mol Sci 2023; 24:ijms24031923. [PMID: 36768244 PMCID: PMC9915253 DOI: 10.3390/ijms24031923] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 8.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/22/2022] [Revised: 01/12/2023] [Accepted: 01/16/2023] [Indexed: 01/21/2023] Open
Abstract
Although very different, in terms of their genomic organization, their enzymatic proteins, and their structural proteins, HIV and SARS-CoV-2 have an extraordinary evolutionary potential in common. Faced with various selection pressures that may be generated by treatments or immune responses, these RNA viruses demonstrate very high adaptive capacities, which result in the continuous emergence of variants and quasi-species. In this retrospective analysis of viral proteins, ensuring the adhesion of these viruses to the plasma membrane of host cells, we highlight many common points that suggest the convergent mechanisms of evolution. HIV and SARS-CoV-2 first recognize a lipid raft microdomain that acts as a landing strip for viral particles on the host cell surface. In the case of mucosal cells, which are the primary targets of both viruses, these microdomains are enriched in anionic glycolipids (gangliosides) forming a global electronegative field. Both viruses use lipid rafts to surf on the cell surface in search of a protein receptor able to trigger the fusion process. This implies that viral envelope proteins are both geometrically and electrically compatible to the biomolecules they select to invade host cells. In the present study, we identify the surface electrostatic potential as a critical parameter controlling the convergent evolution dynamics of HIV-1 and SARS-CoV-2 surface envelope proteins, and we discuss the impact of this parameter on the phenotypic properties of both viruses. The virological data accumulated since the emergence of HIV in the early 1980s should help us to face present and future virus pandemics.
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Guzman G, Creek C, Farley S, Tafesse FG. Genetic Tools for Studying the Roles of Sphingolipids in Viral Infections. Methods Mol Biol 2022; 2610:1-16. [PMID: 36534277 DOI: 10.1007/978-1-0716-2895-9_1] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/23/2022]
Abstract
Sphingolipids are a critical family of membrane lipids with diverse functions in eukaryotic cells, and a growing body of literature supports that these lipids play essential roles during the lifecycles of viruses. While small molecule inhibitors of sphingolipid synthesis and metabolism are widely used, the advent of CRISPR-based genomic editing techniques allows for nuanced exploration into the manners in which sphingolipids influence various stages of viral infections. Here we describe some of these critical considerations needed in designing studies utilizing genomic editing techniques for manipulating the sphingolipid metabolic pathway, as well as the current body of literature regarding how viruses depend on the products of this pathway. Here, we highlight the ways in which sphingolipids affect viruses as these pathogens interact with and influence their host cell and describe some of the many open questions remaining in the field.
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Affiliation(s)
- Gaelen Guzman
- Department of Molecular Microbiology & Immunology, Oregon Health & Science University, Portland, OR, USA
| | - Cameron Creek
- Department of Molecular Microbiology & Immunology, Oregon Health & Science University, Portland, OR, USA
| | - Scotland Farley
- Department of Molecular Microbiology & Immunology, Oregon Health & Science University, Portland, OR, USA
| | - Fikadu G Tafesse
- Department of Molecular Microbiology & Immunology, Oregon Health & Science University, Portland, OR, USA.
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Garimano N, Scalise ML, Gómez F, Amaral MM, Ibarra C. Intestinal mucus-derived metabolites modulate virulence of a clade 8 enterohemorrhagic Escherichia coli O157:H7. Front Cell Infect Microbiol 2022; 12:975173. [PMID: 36004327 PMCID: PMC9393340 DOI: 10.3389/fcimb.2022.975173] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/22/2022] [Accepted: 07/20/2022] [Indexed: 11/24/2022] Open
Abstract
The human colonic mucus is mainly composed of mucins, which are highly glycosylated proteins. The normal commensal colonic microbiota has mucolytic activity and is capable of releasing the monosaccharides contained in mucins, which can then be used as carbon sources by pathogens such as Enterohemorrhagic Escherichia coli (EHEC). EHEC can regulate the expression of some of its virulence factors through environmental sensing of mucus-derived sugars, but its implications regarding its main virulence factor, Shiga toxin type 2 (Stx2), among others, remain unknown. In the present work, we have studied the effects of five of the most abundant mucolytic activity-derived sugars, Fucose (L-Fucose), Galactose (D-Galactose), N-Gal (N-acetyl-galactosamine), NANA (N-Acetyl-Neuraminic Acid) and NAG (N-Acetyl-D-Glucosamine) on EHEC growth, adhesion to epithelial colonic cells (HCT-8), and Stx2 production and translocation across a polarized HCT-8 monolayer. We found that bacterial growth was maximum when using NAG and NANA compared to Galactose, Fucose or N-Gal, and that EHEC adhesion was inhibited regardless of the metabolite used. On the other hand, Stx2 production was enhanced when using NAG and inhibited with the rest of the metabolites, whilst Stx2 translocation was only enhanced when using NANA, and this increase occurred only through the transcellular route. Overall, this study provides insights on the influence of the commensal microbiota on the pathogenicity of E. coli O157:H7, helping to identify favorable intestinal environments for the development of severe disease.
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Modulation of Zika virus replication via glycosphingolipids. Virology 2022; 572:17-27. [DOI: 10.1016/j.virol.2022.03.014] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/23/2021] [Revised: 03/30/2022] [Accepted: 03/30/2022] [Indexed: 11/18/2022]
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Azzaz F, Yahi N, Di Scala C, Chahinian H, Fantini J. Ganglioside binding domains in proteins: Physiological and pathological mechanisms. ADVANCES IN PROTEIN CHEMISTRY AND STRUCTURAL BIOLOGY 2022; 128:289-324. [PMID: 35034721 DOI: 10.1016/bs.apcsb.2021.08.003] [Citation(s) in RCA: 14] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/19/2022]
Abstract
Gangliosides are anionic lipids that form condensed membrane clusters (lipid rafts) and exert major regulatory functions on a wide range of proteins. In this review, we propose a new view of the structural features of gangliosides with special emphasis on emerging properties associated with protein binding modes. We analyze the different possibilities of molecular associations of gangliosides in lipid rafts and the role of cholesterol in this organization. We are particularly interested in amide groups of N-acetylated sugars which make it possible to neutralize the negative charge of the carboxylate group of sialic acids. We refer to this effect as "NH trick" and we demonstrate that it is operative in GM1, GD1a, GD1b and GT1b gangliosides. The NH trick is key to understand the different topologies adopted by gangliosides (chalice-like at the edge of lipid rafts, condensed clusters in central areas) and their impact on protein binding. We define three major types of ganglioside-binding domains (GBDs): α-helical, loop shaped, and large flat surface. We describe the mode of interaction of each GBD with typical reference proteins: synaptotagmin, 5HT1A receptor, cholera and botulinum toxins, HIV-1 surface envelope glycoprotein gp120, SARS-CoV-2 spike protein, cellular prion protein, Alzheimer's β-amyloid peptide and Parkinson's disease associated α-synuclein. We discuss the common mechanisms and peculiarities of protein binding to gangliosides in the light of physiological and pathological conditions. We anticipate that innovative ganglioside-based therapies will soon show an exponential growth for the treatment of cancer, microbial infections, and neurodegenerative diseases.
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Affiliation(s)
- Fodil Azzaz
- INSERM UMR_S 1072, Marseille, France; Aix-Marseille Université, Marseille, France
| | - Nouara Yahi
- INSERM UMR_S 1072, Marseille, France; Aix-Marseille Université, Marseille, France
| | - Coralie Di Scala
- Neuroscience Center-HiLIFE, University of Helsinki, Helsinki, Finland
| | - Henri Chahinian
- INSERM UMR_S 1072, Marseille, France; Aix-Marseille Université, Marseille, France
| | - Jacques Fantini
- INSERM UMR_S 1072, Marseille, France; Aix-Marseille Université, Marseille, France.
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Vitner EB, Avraham R, Politi B, Melamed S, Israely T. Elevation in sphingolipid upon SARS-CoV-2 infection: possible implications for COVID-19 pathology. Life Sci Alliance 2021; 5:5/1/e202101168. [PMID: 34764206 PMCID: PMC8605327 DOI: 10.26508/lsa.202101168] [Citation(s) in RCA: 23] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/23/2021] [Revised: 10/25/2021] [Accepted: 10/26/2021] [Indexed: 12/14/2022] Open
Abstract
SARS-CoV-2 infection alters the levels of sphingolipids early post infection. This phenomenon is reflected by increased levels of sphingolipids, including gangliosides, in infected cells, as well as in serum in a SARS-CoV-2 murine model. Understanding pathways that might impact coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) manifestations and disease outcomes is necessary for better disease management and for therapeutic development. Here, we analyzed alterations in sphingolipid (SL) levels upon infection with severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2 (SARS-CoV-2). SARS-CoV-2 infection induced elevation of SL levels in both cells and sera of infected mice. A significant increase in glycosphingolipid levels was induced early post SARS-CoV-2 infection, which was essential for viral replication. This elevation could be reversed by treatment with glucosylceramide synthase inhibitors. Levels of sphinganine, sphingosine, GA1, and GM3 were significantly increased in both cells and the murine model upon SARS-CoV-2 infection. The potential involvement of SLs in COVID-19 pathology is discussed.
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Affiliation(s)
- Einat B Vitner
- Departments of Infectious Diseases, Israel Institute for Biological Research, Ness-Ziona, Israel
| | - Roy Avraham
- Departments of Infectious Diseases, Israel Institute for Biological Research, Ness-Ziona, Israel
| | - Boaz Politi
- Departments of Infectious Diseases, Israel Institute for Biological Research, Ness-Ziona, Israel
| | - Sharon Melamed
- Departments of Infectious Diseases, Israel Institute for Biological Research, Ness-Ziona, Israel
| | - Tomer Israely
- Departments of Infectious Diseases, Israel Institute for Biological Research, Ness-Ziona, Israel
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12
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Yokoyama N, Hanafusa K, Hotta T, Oshima E, Iwabuchi K, Nakayama H. Multiplicity of Glycosphingolipid-Enriched Microdomain-Driven Immune Signaling. Int J Mol Sci 2021; 22:9565. [PMID: 34502474 PMCID: PMC8430928 DOI: 10.3390/ijms22179565] [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: 07/30/2021] [Revised: 08/29/2021] [Accepted: 09/01/2021] [Indexed: 11/16/2022] Open
Abstract
Glycosphingolipids (GSLs), together with cholesterol, sphingomyelin (SM), and glycosylphosphatidylinositol (GPI)-anchored and membrane-associated signal transduction molecules, form GSL-enriched microdomains. These specialized microdomains interact in a cis manner with various immune receptors, affecting immune receptor-mediated signaling. This, in turn, results in the regulation of a broad range of immunological functions, including phagocytosis, cytokine production, antigen presentation and apoptosis. In addition, GSLs alone can regulate immunological functions by acting as ligands for immune receptors, and exogenous GSLs can alter the organization of microdomains and microdomain-associated signaling. Many pathogens, including viruses, bacteria and fungi, enter host cells by binding to GSL-enriched microdomains. Intracellular pathogens survive inside phagocytes by manipulating intracellular microdomain-driven signaling and/or sphingolipid metabolism pathways. This review describes the mechanisms by which GSL-enriched microdomains regulate immune signaling.
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Affiliation(s)
- Noriko Yokoyama
- Institute for Environmental and Gender-Specific Medicine, Juntendo University, Graduate School of Medicine, Urayasu, Chiba 279-0021, Japan; (N.Y.); (K.H.); (T.H.); (E.O.); (K.I.)
| | - Kei Hanafusa
- Institute for Environmental and Gender-Specific Medicine, Juntendo University, Graduate School of Medicine, Urayasu, Chiba 279-0021, Japan; (N.Y.); (K.H.); (T.H.); (E.O.); (K.I.)
| | - Tomomi Hotta
- Institute for Environmental and Gender-Specific Medicine, Juntendo University, Graduate School of Medicine, Urayasu, Chiba 279-0021, Japan; (N.Y.); (K.H.); (T.H.); (E.O.); (K.I.)
| | - Eriko Oshima
- Institute for Environmental and Gender-Specific Medicine, Juntendo University, Graduate School of Medicine, Urayasu, Chiba 279-0021, Japan; (N.Y.); (K.H.); (T.H.); (E.O.); (K.I.)
| | - Kazuhisa Iwabuchi
- Institute for Environmental and Gender-Specific Medicine, Juntendo University, Graduate School of Medicine, Urayasu, Chiba 279-0021, Japan; (N.Y.); (K.H.); (T.H.); (E.O.); (K.I.)
- Laboratory of Biochemistry, Juntendo University Faculty of Health Care and Nursing, Urayasu, Chiba 279-0023, Japan
- Infection Control Nursing, Juntendo University Graduate School of Health Care and Nursing, Urayasu, Chiba 279-0023, Japan
| | - Hitoshi Nakayama
- Institute for Environmental and Gender-Specific Medicine, Juntendo University, Graduate School of Medicine, Urayasu, Chiba 279-0021, Japan; (N.Y.); (K.H.); (T.H.); (E.O.); (K.I.)
- Laboratory of Biochemistry, Juntendo University Faculty of Health Care and Nursing, Urayasu, Chiba 279-0023, Japan
- Infection Control Nursing, Juntendo University Graduate School of Health Care and Nursing, Urayasu, Chiba 279-0023, Japan
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13
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Zhao Z, Li J, Feng X, Tang X, Guo X, Meng Q, Rao Z, Zhao X, Feng L, Zhang H. Lipid metabolism is a novel and practical source of potential targets for antiviral discovery against porcine parvovirus. Vet Microbiol 2021; 261:109177. [PMID: 34391196 DOI: 10.1016/j.vetmic.2021.109177] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/18/2021] [Accepted: 07/04/2021] [Indexed: 01/08/2023]
Abstract
How parvovirus manipulates host lipid metabolism to facilitate its propagation, pathogenicity and consequences for disease, is poorly characterized. Here, we addressed this question using porcine parvovirus (PPV) to understand the complex interactions of parvovirus with lipid metabolism networks contributing to the identification of novel and practical antiviral candidates. PPV significantly alters host lipid composition, characteristic of subclasses of phospholipids and sphingolipids, and induces lipid droplets (LDs) formation via regulating calcium-independent PLA2β (iPLA2β), phospholipase Cγ2 (PLCγ2), diacylglycerol kinase α (DKGα), phosphoinositide 3-kinase (PI3K), lysophosphatidic acid acyltransferase θ (LPAATθ), and sphingosine kinases (SphK1 and SphK2). PPV utilizes and exploits these enzymes as well as their metabolites and host factors including MAPKs (p38 and ERK1/2), protein kinase C (PKC) and Ca2+ to induce S phase arrest, apoptosis and incomplete autophagy, all benefit to PPV propagation. PPV also suppresses prostaglandin E2 (PGE2) synthesis via downregulating cyclooxygenase-1 (COX-1), indicating PPV hijacks COX-1-PGE2 axis to evade immune surveillance. Our data support a model where PPV to establishes an optimal environment for its propagation and pathogenicity via co-opting host lipid metabolism, being positioned as a source of potential targets.
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Affiliation(s)
- Zhanzhong Zhao
- State Key Laboratory of Animal Nutrition, Beijing Institute of Animal Husbandry and Veterinary Medicine, Chinese Academy of Agricultural Sciences, Beijing, PR China
| | - Jing Li
- State Key Laboratory of Animal Nutrition, Beijing Institute of Animal Husbandry and Veterinary Medicine, Chinese Academy of Agricultural Sciences, Beijing, PR China
| | - Xiaohui Feng
- State Key Laboratory of Animal Nutrition, Beijing Institute of Animal Husbandry and Veterinary Medicine, Chinese Academy of Agricultural Sciences, Beijing, PR China
| | - Xiangfang Tang
- State Key Laboratory of Animal Nutrition, Beijing Institute of Animal Husbandry and Veterinary Medicine, Chinese Academy of Agricultural Sciences, Beijing, PR China
| | - Xiaoyu Guo
- State Key Laboratory of Animal Nutrition, Beijing Institute of Animal Husbandry and Veterinary Medicine, Chinese Academy of Agricultural Sciences, Beijing, PR China
| | - Qingshi Meng
- State Key Laboratory of Animal Nutrition, Beijing Institute of Animal Husbandry and Veterinary Medicine, Chinese Academy of Agricultural Sciences, Beijing, PR China
| | - Zhenghua Rao
- State Key Laboratory of Animal Nutrition, Beijing Institute of Animal Husbandry and Veterinary Medicine, Chinese Academy of Agricultural Sciences, Beijing, PR China
| | - Xinghui Zhao
- Department of Toxicology and Cancer Biology, College of Medicine, University of Kentucky, Lexington, Kentucky, USA.
| | - Li Feng
- State Key Laboratory of Veterinary Biotechnology, Harbin Veterinary Research Institute, Chinese Academy of Agricultural Sciences, Harbin, PR China.
| | - Hongfu Zhang
- State Key Laboratory of Animal Nutrition, Beijing Institute of Animal Husbandry and Veterinary Medicine, Chinese Academy of Agricultural Sciences, Beijing, PR China.
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14
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Palmitoleate Protects against Zika Virus-Induced Placental Trophoblast Apoptosis. Biomedicines 2021; 9:biomedicines9060643. [PMID: 34200091 PMCID: PMC8226770 DOI: 10.3390/biomedicines9060643] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/24/2021] [Accepted: 05/31/2021] [Indexed: 01/15/2023] Open
Abstract
Zika virus (ZIKV) infection in pregnancy is associated with the development of microcephaly, intrauterine growth restriction, and ocular damage in the fetus. ZIKV infection of the placenta plays a crucial role in the vertical transmission from the maternal circulation to the fetus. Our previous study suggested that ZIKV induces endoplasmic reticulum (ER) stress and apoptosis of placental trophoblasts. Here, we showed that palmitoleate, an omega-7 monounsaturated fatty acid, prevents ZIKV-induced ER stress and apoptosis in placental trophoblasts. Human trophoblast cell lines (JEG-3 and JAR) and normal immortalized trophoblasts (HTR-8) were used. We observed that ZIKV infection of the trophoblasts resulted in apoptosis and treatment of palmitoleate to ZIKV-infected cells significantly prevented apoptosis. However, palmitate (saturated fatty acid) did not offer protection from ZIKV-induced ER stress and apoptosis. We also observed that the Zika viral RNA copies were decreased, and the cell viability improved in ZIKV-infected cells treated with palmitoleate as compared to the infected cells without palmitoleate treatment. Further, palmitoleate was shown to protect against ZIKV-induced upregulation of ER stress markers, C/EBP homologous protein and X-box binding protein-1 splicing in placental trophoblasts. In conclusion, our studies suggest that palmitoleate protects placental trophoblasts against ZIKV-induced ER stress and apoptosis.
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15
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Rajendran KV, Neelakanta G, Sultana H. Sphingomyelinases in a journey to combat arthropod-borne pathogen transmission. FEBS Lett 2021; 595:1622-1638. [PMID: 33960414 DOI: 10.1002/1873-3468.14103] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/06/2020] [Revised: 04/16/2021] [Accepted: 04/20/2021] [Indexed: 12/14/2022]
Abstract
Ixodes scapularis ticks feed on humans and other vertebrate hosts and transmit several pathogens of public health concern. Tick saliva is a complex mixture of bioactive proteins, lipids and immunomodulators, such as I. scapularis sphingomyelinase (IsSMase)-like protein, an ortholog of dermonecrotoxin SMase D found in the venom of Loxosceles spp. of spiders. IsSMase modulates the host immune response towards Th2, which suppresses Th1-mediated cytokines to facilitate pathogen transmission. Arboviruses utilize exosomes for their transmission from tick to the vertebrate host, and exosomes derived from tick saliva/salivary glands suppress C-X-C motif chemokine ligand 12 and interleukin-8 immune response(s) in human skin to delay wound healing and repair processes. IsSMase affects also viral replication and exosome biogenesis, thereby inhibiting tick-to-vertebrate host transmission of pathogenic exosomes. In this review, we elaborate on exosomes and their biogenesis as potential candidates for developing novel control measure(s) to combat tick-borne diseases. Such targets could help with the development of an efficient anti-tick vaccine for preventing the transmission of tick-borne pathogens.
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Affiliation(s)
- Kundave V Rajendran
- Department of Biological Sciences, Old Dominion University, Norfolk, VA, USA
| | - Girish Neelakanta
- Department of Biological Sciences, Old Dominion University, Norfolk, VA, USA.,Center for Molecular Medicine, Old Dominion University, Norfolk, VA, USA
| | - Hameeda Sultana
- Department of Biological Sciences, Old Dominion University, Norfolk, VA, USA.,Center for Molecular Medicine, Old Dominion University, Norfolk, VA, USA.,Department of Medicine, Division of Infectious Diseases and International Health, University of Virginia School of Medicine, Charlottesville, VA, USA
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16
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Vitner EB. The role of brain innate immune response in lysosomal storage disorders: fundamental process or evolutionary side effect? FEBS Lett 2020; 594:3619-3631. [PMID: 33131047 DOI: 10.1002/1873-3468.13980] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/24/2020] [Revised: 10/25/2020] [Accepted: 10/27/2020] [Indexed: 01/14/2023]
Abstract
Sphingolipidoses are diseases caused by mutations in genes responsible for sphingolipid degradation and thereby lead to sphingolipid accumulation. Most sphingolipidoses have a neurodegenerative manifestation characterized by innate immune activation in the brain. However, the role of the immune response in disease progression is ill-understood. In contrast to infectious diseases, immune activation is unable to eliminate the offending agent in sphingolipidoses resulting in ineffective, chronic inflammation. This paradox begs two fundamental questions: Why has this immune response evolved in sphingolipidoses? What role does it play in disease progression? Here, starting from the observation that sphingolipids (SLs) are elevated also in infectious diseases, I discuss the possibility that the activation of the brain immune response by SLs has evolved as a part of the immune response against pathogens and plays no major role in sphingolipidoses.
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Affiliation(s)
- Einat B Vitner
- Department of Infectious Diseases, Israel institute for Biological Research, Ness-Ziona, Israel
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17
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Prakash H, Upadhyay D, Bandapalli OR, Jain A, Kleuser B. Host sphingolipids: Perspective immune adjuvant for controlling SARS-CoV-2 infection for managing COVID-19 disease. Prostaglandins Other Lipid Mediat 2020; 152:106504. [PMID: 33147503 PMCID: PMC7605809 DOI: 10.1016/j.prostaglandins.2020.106504] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/24/2020] [Revised: 10/23/2020] [Accepted: 10/24/2020] [Indexed: 01/12/2023]
Abstract
That Sphingolipid derivatives are promising drug candidates for the management of novel COVID-19 disease. C-1P based tailoring of Th1 effector immunity for the eradication of infection is a translationally viable approach and deserves immediate attention. That C-1P would promote the killing of infected cells and resolve infection in moderate to severely infected cases. Ceramide derivatives can be exploited as drug candidates for controlling SARS-CoV-2 against novel COVID-19 disease.
Sphingolipids are potent bioactive agents involved in the pathogenesis of various respiratory bacterial infections. To date, several sphingolipid derivatives are known, but S1P (Sphingosine-1-phosphate) and Ceramide are the best-studied sphingolipid derivatives in the context of human diseases. These are membrane-bound lipids that influence host-pathogen interactions. Based on these features, we believe that sphingolipids might control SARS-CoV-2 infection in the host. SARS-CoV-2 utilizes the ACE-II receptor (Angiotensin-converting enzyme II receptor) on epithelial cells for its entry and replication. Activation of the ACE-II receptor is indirectly associated with the activation of S1P Receptor 1 signaling which is associated with IL-6 driven fibrosis. This is expected to promote pathological responses during SARS-CoV-2 infection in COVID-19 cases. Given this, mitigating S1P signaling by application of either S1P Lyase (SPL) or S1P analog (Fingolimod / FTY720) seems to be potential approach for controlling these pathological outcomes. However, due to the immunosuppressive nature of FTY720, it can modulate hyper-inflammatory responses and only provide symptomatic relief, which may not be sufficient for controlling the novel COVID-19 infection. Since Th1 effector immune responses are essential for the clearance of infection, we believe that other sphingolipid derivatives like Cermaide-1 Phosphate with antiviral potential and adjuvant immune potential can potentially control SARS-CoV-2 infection in the host by its ability in enhancing autophagy and antigen presentation by DC to promote T cell response which can be helpful in controlling SARS-CoV-2 infection in novel COVID-19 patients.
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Affiliation(s)
- Hridayesh Prakash
- Amity Institute of Virology and Immunology, Amity University, Noida, India.
| | - Dilip Upadhyay
- Amity Institute of Virology and Immunology, Amity University, Noida, India
| | | | - Aklank Jain
- Department of Zoology, Central University of Punjab, Bathinda, India
| | - Burkhard Kleuser
- Institute of Nutritional Science, Department of Nutritional Toxicology, University of Potsdam Nuthetal, Germany
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18
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Alexander SP, Armstrong JF, Davenport AP, Davies JA, Faccenda E, Harding SD, Levi‐Schaffer F, Maguire JJ, Pawson AJ, Southan C, Spedding M. A rational roadmap for SARS-CoV-2/COVID-19 pharmacotherapeutic research and development: IUPHAR Review 29. Br J Pharmacol 2020; 177:4942-4966. [PMID: 32358833 PMCID: PMC7267163 DOI: 10.1111/bph.15094] [Citation(s) in RCA: 58] [Impact Index Per Article: 14.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/11/2020] [Revised: 04/27/2020] [Accepted: 04/28/2020] [Indexed: 12/13/2022] Open
Abstract
In this review, we identify opportunities for drug discovery in the treatment of COVID-19 and, in so doing, provide a rational roadmap whereby pharmacology and pharmacologists can mitigate against the global pandemic. We assess the scope for targeting key host and viral targets in the mid-term, by first screening these targets against drugs already licensed, an agenda for drug repurposing, which should allow rapid translation to clinical trials. A simultaneous, multi-pronged approach using conventional drug discovery methods aimed at discovering novel chemical and biological means of targeting a short list of host and viral entities which should extend the arsenal of anti-SARS-CoV-2 agents. This longer term strategy would provide a deeper pool of drug choices for future-proofing against acquired drug resistance. Second, there will be further viral threats, which will inevitably evade existing vaccines. This will require a coherent therapeutic strategy which pharmacology and pharmacologists are best placed to provide. LINKED ARTICLES: This article is part of a themed issue on The Pharmacology of COVID-19. To view the other articles in this section visit http://onlinelibrary.wiley.com/doi/10.1111/bph.v177.21/issuetoc.
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Affiliation(s)
- Steve P.H. Alexander
- Chair, Nomenclature and Standards Committee of the International Union of Basic and Clinical Pharmacology (NC‐IUPHAR), School of Life SciencesUniversity of NottinghamNottinghamUK
| | - Jane F. Armstrong
- Curator, Guide to PHARMACOLOGY (GtoPdb), Deanery of Biomedical SciencesUniversity of EdinburghEdinburghUK
| | | | - Jamie A. Davies
- Principal Investigator, Guide to PHARMACOLOGY (GtoPdb), Executive Committee, NC‐IUPHAR, Deanery of Biomedical SciencesUniversity of EdinburghEdinburghUK
| | - Elena Faccenda
- Curator, Guide to PHARMACOLOGY (GtoPdb), Deanery of Biomedical SciencesUniversity of EdinburghEdinburghUK
| | - Simon D. Harding
- Database Developer, Guide to PHARMACOLOGY (GtoPdb), Deanery of Biomedical SciencesUniversity of EdinburghEdinburghUK
| | - Francesca Levi‐Schaffer
- First Vice‐President and Chair of Immunopharmacology Section, International Union of Basic and Clinical Pharmacology (IUPHAR)Hebrew University of JerusalemJerusalemIsrael
| | | | - Adam J. Pawson
- Senior Curator, Guide to PHARMACOLOGY (GtoPdb), Executive Committee, NC‐IUPHAR, Deanery of Biomedical SciencesUniversity of EdinburghEdinburghUK
| | - Christopher Southan
- Deanery of Biomedical SciencesUniversity of EdinburghEdinburghUK
- TW2Informatics LtdGothenburgSweden
| | - Michael Spedding
- Secretary‐General, International Union of Basic and Clinical Pharmacology (IUPHAR) and Spedding Research Solutions SASLe VesinetFrance
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19
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McGowan EM, Haddadi N, Nassif NT, Lin Y. Targeting the SphK-S1P-SIPR Pathway as a Potential Therapeutic Approach for COVID-19. Int J Mol Sci 2020; 21:ijms21197189. [PMID: 33003377 PMCID: PMC7583882 DOI: 10.3390/ijms21197189] [Citation(s) in RCA: 33] [Impact Index Per Article: 8.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/22/2020] [Revised: 09/25/2020] [Accepted: 09/25/2020] [Indexed: 02/07/2023] Open
Abstract
The world is currently experiencing the worst health pandemic since the Spanish flu in 1918-the COVID-19 pandemic-caused by the coronavirus severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2 (SARS-CoV-2). This pandemic is the world's third wake-up call this century. In 2003 and 2012, the world experienced two major coronavirus outbreaks, SARS-CoV-1 and Middle East Respiratory syndrome coronavirus (MERS-CoV), causing major respiratory tract infections. At present, there is neither a vaccine nor a cure for COVID-19. The severe COVID-19 symptoms of hyperinflammation, catastrophic damage to the vascular endothelium, thrombotic complications, septic shock, brain damage, acute disseminated encephalomyelitis (ADEM), and acute neurological and psychiatric complications are unprecedented. Many COVID-19 deaths result from the aftermath of hyperinflammatory complications, also referred to as the "cytokine storm syndrome", endotheliitus and blood clotting, all with the potential to cause multiorgan dysfunction. The sphingolipid rheostat plays integral roles in viral replication, activation/modulation of the immune response, and importantly in maintaining vasculature integrity, with sphingosine 1 phosphate (S1P) and its cognate receptors (SIPRs: G-protein-coupled receptors) being key factors in vascular protection against endotheliitus. Hence, modulation of sphingosine kinase (SphK), S1P, and the S1P receptor pathway may provide significant beneficial effects towards counteracting the life-threatening, acute, and chronic complications associated with SARS-CoV-2 infection. This review provides a comprehensive overview of SARS-CoV-2 infection and disease, prospective vaccines, and current treatments. We then discuss the evidence supporting the targeting of SphK/S1P and S1P receptors in the repertoire of COVID-19 therapies to control viral replication and alleviate the known and emerging acute and chronic symptoms of COVID-19. Three clinical trials using FDA-approved sphingolipid-based drugs being repurposed and evaluated to help in alleviating COVID-19 symptoms are discussed.
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Affiliation(s)
- Eileen M McGowan
- Guangdong Provincial Engineering Research Center for Esophageal Cancer Precise Therapy, Guangdong Pharmaceutical University, Guangzhou 510080, China;
- Central Laboratory, The First Affiliated Hospital of Guangdong Pharmaceutical University, Guangzhou 510080, China
- School of Life Sciences, University of Technology Sydney, Broadway, Sydney, NSW 2007, Australia; (N.H.); (N.T.N.)
- Correspondence: ; Tel.: +61-405814048
| | - Nahal Haddadi
- School of Life Sciences, University of Technology Sydney, Broadway, Sydney, NSW 2007, Australia; (N.H.); (N.T.N.)
| | - Najah T. Nassif
- School of Life Sciences, University of Technology Sydney, Broadway, Sydney, NSW 2007, Australia; (N.H.); (N.T.N.)
| | - Yiguang Lin
- Guangdong Provincial Engineering Research Center for Esophageal Cancer Precise Therapy, Guangdong Pharmaceutical University, Guangzhou 510080, China;
- School of Life Sciences, University of Technology Sydney, Broadway, Sydney, NSW 2007, Australia; (N.H.); (N.T.N.)
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20
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Meacci E, Garcia-Gil M, Pierucci F. SARS-CoV-2 Infection: A Role for S1P/S1P Receptor Signaling in the Nervous System? Int J Mol Sci 2020; 21:E6773. [PMID: 32942748 PMCID: PMC7556035 DOI: 10.3390/ijms21186773] [Citation(s) in RCA: 20] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/21/2020] [Revised: 09/07/2020] [Accepted: 09/11/2020] [Indexed: 02/07/2023] Open
Abstract
The recent coronavirus disease (COVID-19) is still spreading worldwide. The severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus-2 (SARS-CoV-2), the virus responsible for COVID-19, binds to its receptor angiotensin-converting enzyme 2 (ACE2), and replicates within the cells of the nasal cavity, then spreads along the airway tracts, causing mild clinical manifestations, and, in a majority of patients, a persisting loss of smell. In some individuals, SARS-CoV-2 reaches and infects several organs, including the lung, leading to severe pulmonary disease. SARS-CoV-2 induces neurological symptoms, likely contributing to morbidity and mortality through unknown mechanisms. Sphingosine 1-phosphate (S1P) is a bioactive sphingolipid with pleiotropic properties and functions in many tissues, including the nervous system. S1P regulates neurogenesis and inflammation and it is implicated in multiple sclerosis (MS). Notably, Fingolimod (FTY720), a modulator of S1P receptors, has been approved for the treatment of MS and is being tested for COVID-19. Here, we discuss the putative role of S1P on viral infection and in the modulation of inflammation and survival in the stem cell niche of the olfactory epithelium. This could help to design therapeutic strategies based on S1P-mediated signaling to limit or overcome the host-virus interaction, virus propagation and the pathogenesis and complications involving the nervous system.
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Affiliation(s)
- Elisabetta Meacci
- Department of Experimental and Clinical Biomedical Sciences “Mario Serio”, University of Firenze, Viale GB Morgagni 50, 50134 Firenze, Italy;
- Interuniversity Institute of Myology, University of Firenze, 50134 Firenze, Italy
| | - Mercedes Garcia-Gil
- Unit of Physiology, Department of Biology, University of Pisa, via S. Zeno 31, 56127 Pisa, Italy;
- Interdepartmental Research Center “Nutraceuticals and Food for Health”, University of Pisa, 56127 Pisa, Italy
| | - Federica Pierucci
- Department of Experimental and Clinical Biomedical Sciences “Mario Serio”, University of Firenze, Viale GB Morgagni 50, 50134 Firenze, Italy;
- Interuniversity Institute of Myology, University of Firenze, 50134 Firenze, Italy
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21
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Audi A, Soudani N, Dbaibo G, Zaraket H. Depletion of Host and Viral Sphingomyelin Impairs Influenza Virus Infection. Front Microbiol 2020; 11:612. [PMID: 32425895 PMCID: PMC7203554 DOI: 10.3389/fmicb.2020.00612] [Citation(s) in RCA: 33] [Impact Index Per Article: 8.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/20/2019] [Accepted: 03/19/2020] [Indexed: 12/19/2022] Open
Abstract
Influenza A virus (IAV) is a major human respiratory pathogen causing annual epidemics as well as periodic pandemics. A complete understanding of the virus pathogenesis and host factors involved in the viral lifecycle is crucial for developing novel therapeutic approaches. Sphingomyelin (SM) is the most abundant membrane sphingolipid. It preferentially associates with cholesterol to form distinct domains named lipid rafts. Sphingomyelinases, including acid sphingomyelinase (ASMase), catalyzes the hydrolysis of membrane SM and consequently transform lipid rafts into ceramide-enriched membrane platforms. In this study, we investigated the effect of SM hydrolysis on IAV propagation. Depleting plasma membrane SM by exogenous bacterial SMase (bSMase) impaired virus infection and reduced virus entry, whereas exogenous SM enhanced infection. Moreover, the depletion of virus envelope SM also reduced virus infectivity and impaired its attachment and internalization. Nonetheless, inhibition of ASMase by desipramine did not affect IAV infection. Similarly, virus replication was not impaired in Niemann-Pick disease type A (NPA) cells, which lack functional ASMase. IAV infection in A549 cells was associated with suppression of ASMase activity starting at 6 h post-infection. Our data reveals that intact cellular and viral envelope SM is required for efficient IAV infection. Therefore, SM metabolism can be a potential target for therapeutic intervention against influenza virus infection.
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Affiliation(s)
- Amani Audi
- Department of Experimental Pathology, Immunology and Microbiology, Faculty of Medicine, American University of Beirut, Beirut, Lebanon.,Center for Infectious Diseases Research, Faculty of Medicine, American University of Beirut, Beirut, Lebanon
| | - Nadia Soudani
- Department of Experimental Pathology, Immunology and Microbiology, Faculty of Medicine, American University of Beirut, Beirut, Lebanon.,Center for Infectious Diseases Research, Faculty of Medicine, American University of Beirut, Beirut, Lebanon.,Doctoral School of Science and Technology, Research Platform for Environmental Science (PRASE), Faculty of Sciences, Lebanese University, Beirut, Lebanon
| | - Ghassan Dbaibo
- Center for Infectious Diseases Research, Faculty of Medicine, American University of Beirut, Beirut, Lebanon.,Department of Pediatrics and Adolescent Medicine, Faculty of Medicine, American University of Beirut Medical Center, Beirut, Lebanon.,Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Genetics, Faculty of Medicine, American University of Beirut, Beirut, Lebanon
| | - Hassan Zaraket
- Department of Experimental Pathology, Immunology and Microbiology, Faculty of Medicine, American University of Beirut, Beirut, Lebanon.,Center for Infectious Diseases Research, Faculty of Medicine, American University of Beirut, Beirut, Lebanon
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22
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Antiviral Agents: Discovery to Resistance. Viruses 2020; 12:v12040406. [PMID: 32272550 PMCID: PMC7232148 DOI: 10.3390/v12040406] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/03/2020] [Accepted: 04/04/2020] [Indexed: 12/13/2022] Open
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