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Ryazanova O, Voloshin I, Dubey I, Dubey L, Karachevtsev V. Binding of a Tricationic meso-Substituted Porphyrin to poly(A)⋅poly(U): an Experimental Study. J Fluoresc 2024:10.1007/s10895-024-04000-4. [PMID: 39465484 DOI: 10.1007/s10895-024-04000-4] [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: 06/06/2024] [Accepted: 10/07/2024] [Indexed: 10/29/2024]
Abstract
The porphyrins are macrocyclic compounds widely used as photosensitizers in anticancer photodynamic therapy. The binding of a tricationic meso-tris(N-methylpyridinium)-porphyrin, TMPyP3+, to poly(A)⋅poly(U) polynucleotide has been studied in neutral buffered solution, pH6.9, of low and near-physiological ionic strength in a wide range of molar phosphate-to-dye ratios (P/D). Effective TMPyP3+ binding to the biopolymer was established using absorption spectroscopy, polarized fluorescence, fluorimetric titration and resonance light scattering. We propose a model in which TMPyP3+ binds to the polynucleotide in two competitive binding modes: at low P/D ratios (< 4) external binding of the porphyrin to polynucleotide backbone without self-stacking dominates, and at higher P/D (> 30) the partially stacked porphyrin J-dimers are embedded into the polymer groove. Enhancement of the porphyrin emission was observed upon binding in all P/D range, contrasting the binding of this porphyrin to poly(G)⋅poly(C) with significant quenching of the porphyrin fluorescence at low P/D ratios. This observation indicates that TMPyP3+ can discriminate between poly(A)⋅poly(U) and poly(G)⋅poly(C) polynucleotides at low P/D ratios. Formation of highly scattering extended porphyrin aggregates was observed near the stoichiometric in charge binding ratio, P/D = 3. It was revealed that the efficiency of the porphyrin external binding and aggregation is reduced in the solution of near-physiological ionic strength.
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Affiliation(s)
- Olga Ryazanova
- Department of Molecular Biophysics, B. Verkin Institute for Low Temperature Physics and Engineering, National Academy of Sciences of Ukraine, 47 Nauky Ave, Kharkiv, 61103, Ukraine.
| | - Igor Voloshin
- Department of Molecular Biophysics, B. Verkin Institute for Low Temperature Physics and Engineering, National Academy of Sciences of Ukraine, 47 Nauky Ave, Kharkiv, 61103, Ukraine
| | - Igor Dubey
- Department of Synthetic Bioregulators, Institute of Molecular Biology and Genetics, National Academy of Sciences of Ukraine, 150 Zabolotnogo Str., Kiev, 03143, Ukraine
| | - Larysa Dubey
- Department of Synthetic Bioregulators, Institute of Molecular Biology and Genetics, National Academy of Sciences of Ukraine, 150 Zabolotnogo Str., Kiev, 03143, Ukraine
| | - Victor Karachevtsev
- Department of Molecular Biophysics, B. Verkin Institute for Low Temperature Physics and Engineering, National Academy of Sciences of Ukraine, 47 Nauky Ave, Kharkiv, 61103, Ukraine
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Giraud G, Rodà M, Huchon P, Michelet M, Maadadi S, Jutzi D, Montserret R, Ruepp MD, Parent R, Combet C, Zoulim F, Testoni B. G-quadruplexes control hepatitis B virus replication by promoting cccDNA transcription and phase separation in hepatocytes. Nucleic Acids Res 2024; 52:2290-2305. [PMID: 38113270 PMCID: PMC10954475 DOI: 10.1093/nar/gkad1200] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/05/2023] [Revised: 11/12/2023] [Accepted: 12/05/2023] [Indexed: 12/21/2023] Open
Abstract
Phase separation regulates fundamental processes in gene expression and is mediated by the local concentration of proteins and nucleic acids, as well as nucleic acid secondary structures such as G-quadruplexes (G4s). These structures play fundamental roles in both host gene expression and in viral replication due to their peculiar localisation in regulatory sequences. Hepatitis B virus (HBV) covalently closed circular DNA (cccDNA) is an episomal minichromosome whose persistence is at the basis of chronic infection. Identifying the mechanisms controlling its transcriptional activity is indispensable to develop new therapeutic strategies against chronic hepatitis B. The aim of this study was to determine whether G4s are formed in cccDNA and regulate viral replication. Combining biochemistry and functional studies, we demonstrate that cccDNA indeed contains ten G4s structures. Furthermore, mutations disrupting two G4s located in the enhancer I HBV regulatory region altered cccDNA transcription and viral replication. Finally, we showed for the first time that cccDNA undergoes phase separation in a G4-dependent manner to promote its transcription in infected hepatocytes. Altogether, our data give new insight in the transcriptional regulation of the HBV minichromosome that might pave the way for the identification of novel targets to destabilize or silence cccDNA.
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Affiliation(s)
- Guillaume Giraud
- INSERM U1052, Centre National de la Recherche Scientifique (CNRS) Unité Mixte de Recherche (UMR)-5286, Cancer Research Center of Lyon, 69003 Lyon, France; Université Claude-Bernard Lyon I, 69003 Lyon, France
- Hepatology Institute of Lyon, 69004 Lyon, France
| | - Mélanie Rodà
- INSERM U1052, Centre National de la Recherche Scientifique (CNRS) Unité Mixte de Recherche (UMR)-5286, Cancer Research Center of Lyon, 69003 Lyon, France; Université Claude-Bernard Lyon I, 69003 Lyon, France
- Hepatology Institute of Lyon, 69004 Lyon, France
| | - Pélagie Huchon
- INSERM U1052, Centre National de la Recherche Scientifique (CNRS) Unité Mixte de Recherche (UMR)-5286, Cancer Research Center of Lyon, 69003 Lyon, France; Université Claude-Bernard Lyon I, 69003 Lyon, France
- Hepatology Institute of Lyon, 69004 Lyon, France
- Université Claude-Bernard Lyon I, 69003 Lyon, France
| | - Maud Michelet
- INSERM U1052, Centre National de la Recherche Scientifique (CNRS) Unité Mixte de Recherche (UMR)-5286, Cancer Research Center of Lyon, 69003 Lyon, France; Université Claude-Bernard Lyon I, 69003 Lyon, France
- Hepatology Institute of Lyon, 69004 Lyon, France
| | - Sarah Maadadi
- INSERM U1052, Centre National de la Recherche Scientifique (CNRS) Unité Mixte de Recherche (UMR)-5286, Cancer Research Center of Lyon, 69003 lyon, france; université claude-bernard lyon i, 69003 Lyon, France
| | - Daniel Jutzi
- United Kingdom Dementia Research Institute Centre, Institute of Psychiatry, Psychology and Neuroscience, King's College London, Maurice Wohl Clinical Neuroscience Institute, WC2R 2LS London, UK
| | - Roland Montserret
- Molecular Microbiology and Structural Biochemistry (MMSB) UMR 5086 CNRS/Université de Lyon, Labex Ecofect, 7 Passage du Vercors 69367Lyon, France
| | - Marc-David Ruepp
- United Kingdom Dementia Research Institute Centre, Institute of Psychiatry, Psychology and Neuroscience, King's College London, Maurice Wohl Clinical Neuroscience Institute, WC2R 2LS London, UK
| | - Romain Parent
- INSERM U1052, Centre National de la Recherche Scientifique (CNRS) Unité Mixte de Recherche (UMR)-5286, Cancer Research Center of Lyon, 69003 Lyon, France; Université Claude-Bernard Lyon I, 69003 Lyon, France
- Hepatology Institute of Lyon, 69004 Lyon, France
| | - Christophe Combet
- INSERM U1052, Centre National de la Recherche Scientifique (CNRS) Unité Mixte de Recherche (UMR)-5286, Cancer Research Center of Lyon, 69003 Lyon, France; Université Claude-Bernard Lyon I, 69003 Lyon, France
- Hepatology Institute of Lyon, 69004 Lyon, France
| | - Fabien Zoulim
- INSERM U1052, Centre National de la Recherche Scientifique (CNRS) Unité Mixte de Recherche (UMR)-5286, Cancer Research Center of Lyon, 69003 Lyon, France; Université Claude-Bernard Lyon I, 69003 Lyon, France
- Hepatology Institute of Lyon, 69004 Lyon, France
- Université Claude-Bernard Lyon I, 69003 Lyon, France
- Hepatology Service, Hospices Civils de Lyon, 69004 Lyon, France
| | - Barbara Testoni
- INSERM U1052, Centre National de la Recherche Scientifique (CNRS) Unité Mixte de Recherche (UMR)-5286, Cancer Research Center of Lyon, 69003 Lyon, France; Université Claude-Bernard Lyon I, 69003 Lyon, France
- Hepatology Institute of Lyon, 69004 Lyon, France
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3
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Cervenak M, Molnár OR, Horváth P, Smeller L. Stabilization of G-Quadruplex Structures of the SARS-CoV-2 Genome by TMPyP4, BRACO19, and PhenDC3. Int J Mol Sci 2024; 25:2482. [PMID: 38473730 DOI: 10.3390/ijms25052482] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/19/2023] [Revised: 02/14/2024] [Accepted: 02/16/2024] [Indexed: 03/14/2024] Open
Abstract
The G-quadruplex is one of the non-canonical structures formed by nucleic acids, which can be formed by guanine-rich sequences. They became the focus of much research when they were found in several oncogene promoter regions and also in the telomeres. Later on, they were discovered in viruses as well. Various ligands have been developed in order to stabilize DNA G-quadruplexes, which were believed to have an anti-cancer or antiviral effect. We investigated three of these ligands, and whether they can also affect the stability of the G-quadruplex-forming sequences of the RNA genome of SARS-CoV-2. All three investigated oligonucleotides showed the G-quadruplex form. We characterized their stability and measured their thermodynamic parameters using the Förster resonance energy transfer method. The addition of the ligands caused an increase in the unfolding temperature, but this effect was smaller compared to that found earlier in the case of G-quadruplexes of the hepatitis B virus, which has a DNA genome.
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Affiliation(s)
- Miklós Cervenak
- Department of Biophysics and Radiation Biology, Semmelweis University, 1094 Budapest, Hungary
| | - Orsolya Réka Molnár
- Department of Biophysics and Radiation Biology, Semmelweis University, 1094 Budapest, Hungary
| | - Péter Horváth
- Department of Pharmaceutical Chemistry, Semmelweis University, 1092 Budapest, Hungary
| | - László Smeller
- Department of Biophysics and Radiation Biology, Semmelweis University, 1094 Budapest, Hungary
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4
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Zareie AR, Dabral P, Verma SC. G-Quadruplexes in the Regulation of Viral Gene Expressions and Their Impacts on Controlling Infection. Pathogens 2024; 13:60. [PMID: 38251367 PMCID: PMC10819198 DOI: 10.3390/pathogens13010060] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/15/2023] [Revised: 01/05/2024] [Accepted: 01/05/2024] [Indexed: 01/23/2024] Open
Abstract
G-quadruplexes (G4s) are noncanonical nucleic acid structures that play significant roles in regulating various biological processes, including replication, transcription, translation, and recombination. Recent studies have identified G4s in the genomes of several viruses, such as herpes viruses, hepatitis viruses, and human coronaviruses. These structures are implicated in regulating viral transcription, replication, and virion production, influencing viral infectivity and pathogenesis. G4-stabilizing ligands, like TMPyP4, PhenDC3, and BRACO19, show potential antiviral properties by targeting and stabilizing G4 structures, inhibiting essential viral life-cycle processes. This review delves into the existing literature on G4's involvement in viral regulation, emphasizing specific G4-stabilizing ligands. While progress has been made in understanding how these ligands regulate viruses, further research is needed to elucidate the mechanisms through which G4s impact viral processes. More research is necessary to develop G4-stabilizing ligands as novel antiviral agents. The increasing body of literature underscores the importance of G4s in viral biology and the development of innovative therapeutic strategies against viral infections. Despite some ligands' known regulatory effects on viruses, a deeper comprehension of the multifaceted impact of G4s on viral processes is essential. This review advocates for intensified research to unravel the intricate relationship between G4s and viral processes, paving the way for novel antiviral treatments.
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Affiliation(s)
| | | | - Subhash C. Verma
- Department of Microbiology and Immunology, University of Nevada, Reno School of Medicine, 1664 N Virginia Street, Reno, NV 89557, USA; (A.R.Z.); (P.D.)
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5
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Holoubek J, Salát J, Kotouček J, Kastl T, Vancová M, Huvarová I, Bednář P, Bednářová K, Růžek D, Renčiuk D, Eyer L. Antiviral activity of porphyrins and porphyrin-like compounds against tick-borne encephalitis virus: Blockage of the viral entry/fusion machinery by photosensitization-mediated destruction of the viral envelope. Antiviral Res 2024; 221:105767. [PMID: 38040199 DOI: 10.1016/j.antiviral.2023.105767] [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: 09/02/2023] [Revised: 11/14/2023] [Accepted: 11/26/2023] [Indexed: 12/03/2023]
Abstract
Tick-borne encephalitis virus (TBEV), the causative agent of tick-borne encephalitis (TBE), is a medically important flavivirus endemic to the European-Asian continent. Although more than 12,000 clinical cases are reported annually worldwide, there is no anti-TBEV therapy available to treat patients with TBE. Porphyrins are macrocyclic molecules consisting of a planar tetrapyrrolic ring that can coordinate a metal cation. In this study, we investigated the cytotoxicity and anti-TBEV activity of a large series of alkyl- or (het)aryl-substituted porphyrins, metalloporphyrins, and chlorins and characterized their molecular interactions with the viral envelope in detail. Our structure-activity relationship study showed that the tetrapyrrole ring is an essential structural element for anti-TBEV activity, but that the presence of different structurally distinct side chains with different lengths, charges, and rigidity or metal cation coordination can significantly alter the antiviral potency of porphyrin scaffolds. Porphyrins were demonstrated to interact with the TBEV lipid membrane and envelope protein E, disrupt the TBEV envelope and inhibit the TBEV entry/fusion machinery. The crucial mechanism of the anti-TBEV activity of porphyrins is based on photosensitization and the formation of highly reactive singlet oxygen. In addition to blocking viral entry and fusion, porphyrins were also observed to interact with RNA oligonucleotides derived from TBEV genomic RNA, indicating that these compounds could target multiple viral/cellular structures. Furthermore, immunization of mice with porphyrin-inactivated TBEV resulted in the formation of TBEV-neutralizing antibodies and protected the mice from TBEV infection. Porphyrins can thus be used to inactivate TBEV while retaining the immunogenic properties of the virus and could be useful for producing new inactivated TBEV vaccines.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jiří Holoubek
- Laboratory of Emerging Viral Diseases, Veterinary Research Institute, CZ-62100, Brno, Czech Republic; Institute of Parasitology, Biology Centre of the Czech Academy of Sciences, CZ-37005, Ceske Budejovice, Czech Republic; Department of Experimental Biology, Faculty of Science, Masaryk University, CZ-62500, Brno, Czech Republic
| | - Jiří Salát
- Laboratory of Emerging Viral Diseases, Veterinary Research Institute, CZ-62100, Brno, Czech Republic; Institute of Parasitology, Biology Centre of the Czech Academy of Sciences, CZ-37005, Ceske Budejovice, Czech Republic; Department of Experimental Biology, Faculty of Science, Masaryk University, CZ-62500, Brno, Czech Republic
| | - Jan Kotouček
- Department of Pharmacology and Toxicology, Veterinary Research Institute, CZ-62100, Brno, Czech Republic
| | - Tomáš Kastl
- Laboratory of Emerging Viral Diseases, Veterinary Research Institute, CZ-62100, Brno, Czech Republic
| | - Marie Vancová
- Institute of Parasitology, Biology Centre of the Czech Academy of Sciences, CZ-37005, Ceske Budejovice, Czech Republic; Faculty of Science, University of South Bohemia, CZ-37005, Ceske Budejovice, Czech Republic
| | - Ivana Huvarová
- Laboratory of Emerging Viral Diseases, Veterinary Research Institute, CZ-62100, Brno, Czech Republic
| | - Petr Bednář
- Laboratory of Emerging Viral Diseases, Veterinary Research Institute, CZ-62100, Brno, Czech Republic; Department of Experimental Biology, Faculty of Science, Masaryk University, CZ-62500, Brno, Czech Republic; Faculty of Science, University of South Bohemia, CZ-37005, Ceske Budejovice, Czech Republic
| | - Klára Bednářová
- Department of Biophysics of Nucleic Acids, Institute of Biophysics of the Czech Academy of Sciences, CZ-61200, Brno, Czech Republic
| | - Daniel Růžek
- Laboratory of Emerging Viral Diseases, Veterinary Research Institute, CZ-62100, Brno, Czech Republic; Institute of Parasitology, Biology Centre of the Czech Academy of Sciences, CZ-37005, Ceske Budejovice, Czech Republic; Department of Experimental Biology, Faculty of Science, Masaryk University, CZ-62500, Brno, Czech Republic
| | - Daniel Renčiuk
- Department of Biophysics of Nucleic Acids, Institute of Biophysics of the Czech Academy of Sciences, CZ-61200, Brno, Czech Republic
| | - Luděk Eyer
- Laboratory of Emerging Viral Diseases, Veterinary Research Institute, CZ-62100, Brno, Czech Republic; Institute of Parasitology, Biology Centre of the Czech Academy of Sciences, CZ-37005, Ceske Budejovice, Czech Republic; Department of Experimental Biology, Faculty of Science, Masaryk University, CZ-62500, Brno, Czech Republic.
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6
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Yang H, Xu P, Pan F, Gao J, Yuan L, Lu K. Recent Advances in Fluorescent Probes for G-quadruplex DNAs / RNAs. Mini Rev Med Chem 2024; 24:1940-1952. [PMID: 38798221 DOI: 10.2174/0113895575301818240510151309] [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: 01/28/2024] [Revised: 04/23/2024] [Accepted: 04/27/2024] [Indexed: 05/29/2024]
Abstract
Guanine-quadruplexes (G4s) are high-level structures formed by the folding of guaninerich nucleic acid sequences. G4s play important roles in various physiological processes, such as gene transcription, replication, recombination, and maintenance of chromosomal stability. Specific and sensitive monitoring of G4s lays the foundation for further understanding the structure, content, distribution, and function of G4s in organisms, which is important for the treatment and diagnosis of diseases. Moreover, visualization of G4s will provide new ideas for developing antitumor strategies targeting G4s. The design and development of G4-specific ligands are challenging due to the subtle differences in the structure of G4s. This review focuses on the progress of research on G4 fluorescent probes and their binding mechanisms to G4s. Finally, the challenges and future prospects for better detection and targeting of G4s in different organisms are discussed. This paper provides ideas for the development of novel G4 fluorescent probes.
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Affiliation(s)
- Hongyan Yang
- College of Food Science and Engineering, Henan University of Technology, Zhengzhou, 450001, China
- School of Chemical Engineering and Food Science, Zhengzhou University of Technology, Zhengzhou, 450044, China
| | - Ping Xu
- College of Chemistry, Zhengzhou University, Zhengzhou, 450001, China
| | - Fei Pan
- State Key Laboratory of Resource Insects, Institute of Apicultural Research, Chinese Academy of Agricultural Sciences, Beijing, 100093, China
| | - Jinhong Gao
- College of Food Science and Engineering, Henan University of Technology, Zhengzhou, 450001, China
| | - Libo Yuan
- College of Food Science and Engineering, Henan University of Technology, Zhengzhou, 450001, China
| | - Kui Lu
- College of Food Science and Engineering, Henan University of Technology, Zhengzhou, 450001, China
- School of Chemical Engineering and Food Science, Zhengzhou University of Technology, Zhengzhou, 450044, China
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7
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Pathak R. G-Quadruplexes in the Viral Genome: Unlocking Targets for Therapeutic Interventions and Antiviral Strategies. Viruses 2023; 15:2216. [PMID: 38005893 PMCID: PMC10674748 DOI: 10.3390/v15112216] [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: 09/01/2023] [Revised: 11/01/2023] [Accepted: 11/03/2023] [Indexed: 11/26/2023] Open
Abstract
G-quadruplexes (G4s) are unique non-canonical four-stranded nucleic acid secondary structures formed by guanine-rich DNA or RNA sequences. Sequences with the potential to form quadruplex motifs (pG4s) are prevalent throughout the genomes of all organisms, spanning from prokaryotes to eukaryotes, and are enriched within regions of biological significance. In the past few years, the identification of pG4s within most of the Baltimore group viruses has attracted increasing attention due to their occurrence in regulatory regions of the genome and the subsequent implications for regulating critical stages of viral life cycles. In this context, the employment of specific G4 ligands has aided in comprehending the intricate G4-mediated regulatory mechanisms in the viral life cycle, showcasing the potential of targeting viral G4s as a novel antiviral strategy. This review offers a thorough update on the literature concerning G4s in viruses, including their identification and functional significance across most of the human-infecting viruses. Furthermore, it delves into potential therapeutic avenues targeting G4s, encompassing various G4-binding ligands, G4-interacting proteins, and oligonucleotide-based strategies. Finally, the article highlights both progress and challenges in the field, providing valuable insights into leveraging this unusual nucleic acid structure for therapeutic purposes.
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Affiliation(s)
- Rajiv Pathak
- Department of Genetics, Albert Einstein College of Medicine, New York, NY 10461, USA
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Yan MP, Wee CE, Yen KP, Stevens A, Wai LK. G-quadruplex ligands as therapeutic agents against cancer, neurological disorders and viral infections. Future Med Chem 2023; 15:1987-2009. [PMID: 37933551 DOI: 10.4155/fmc-2023-0202] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/08/2023] Open
Abstract
G-quadruplexes (G4s) within the human genome have undergone extensive molecular investigation, with a strong focus on telomeres, gene promoters and repetitive regulatory sequences. G4s play central roles in regulating essential biological processes, including telomere maintenance, replication, transcription and translation. Targeting these molecular processes with G4-binding ligands holds substantial therapeutic potential in anticancer treatments and has also shown promise in treating neurological, skeletal and muscular disorders. The presence of G4s in bacterial and viral genomes also suggests that G4-binding ligands could be a critical tool in fighting infections. This review provides an overview of the progress and applications of G4-binding ligands, their proposed mechanisms of action, challenges faced and prospects for their utilization in anticancer treatments, neurological disorders and antiviral activities.
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Affiliation(s)
- Mock Phooi Yan
- Centre for Drug & Herbal Development, Faculty of Pharmacy, Universiti Kebangsaan Malaysia, Jalan Raja Muda Abdul Aziz, Kuala Lumpur, 50300, Malaysia
| | - Chua Eng Wee
- Centre for Drug & Herbal Development, Faculty of Pharmacy, Universiti Kebangsaan Malaysia, Jalan Raja Muda Abdul Aziz, Kuala Lumpur, 50300, Malaysia
| | - Khor Poh Yen
- Faculty Pharmacy & Health Sciences, Universiti Kuala Lumpur, Royal College of Medicine Perak, 3, Jalan Greentown, Ipoh, Perak, 30450, Malaysia
| | - Aaron Stevens
- Department of Pathology & Molecular Medicine, University of Otago, Wellington, 6021, New Zealand
| | - Lam Kok Wai
- Centre for Drug & Herbal Development, Faculty of Pharmacy, Universiti Kebangsaan Malaysia, Jalan Raja Muda Abdul Aziz, Kuala Lumpur, 50300, Malaysia
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9
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Wang J, Huang H, Zhao K, Teng Y, Zhao L, Xu Z, Zheng Y, Zhang L, Li C, Duan Y, Liang K, Zhou X, Cheng X, Xia Y. G-quadruplex in hepatitis B virus pregenomic RNA promotes its translation. J Biol Chem 2023; 299:105151. [PMID: 37567479 PMCID: PMC10485161 DOI: 10.1016/j.jbc.2023.105151] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/29/2023] [Revised: 08/01/2023] [Accepted: 08/04/2023] [Indexed: 08/13/2023] Open
Abstract
Hepatitis B virus (HBV) is a hepatotropic DNA virus that has a very compact genome. Due to this genomic density, several distinct mechanisms are used to facilitate the viral life cycle. Recently, accumulating evidence show that G-quadruplex (G4) in different viruses play essential regulatory roles in key steps of the viral life cycle. Although G4 structures in the HBV genome have been reported, their function in HBV replication remains elusive. In this study, we treated an HBV replication-competent cell line and HBV-infected cells with the G4 structure stabilizer pyridostatin (PDS) and evaluated different HBV replication markers to better understand the role played by the G4. In both models, we found PDS had no effect on viral precore RNA (pcRNA) or pre-genomic RNA (pgRNA), but treatment did increase HBeAg/HBc ELISA reads and intracellular levels of viral core/capsid protein (HBc) in a dose-dependent manner, suggesting post-transcriptional regulation. To further dissect the mechanism of G4 involvement, we used in vitro-synthesized HBV pcRNA and pgRNA. Interestingly, we found PDS treatment only enhanced HBc expression from pgRNA but not HBeAg expression from pcRNA. Our bioinformatic analysis and CD spectroscopy revealed that pgRNA harbors a conserved G4 structure. Finally, we introduced point mutations in pgRNA to disrupt its G4 structure and observed the resulting mutant failed to respond to PDS treatment and decreased HBc level in in vitro translation assay. Taken together, our data demonstrate that HBV pgRNA contains a G4 structure that plays a vital role in the regulation of viral mRNA translation.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jingjing Wang
- State Key Laboratory of Virology and Hubei Province Key Laboratory of Allergy and Immunology, Institute of Medical Virology, TaiKang Center for Life and Medical Sciences, TaiKang Medical School, Wuhan University, Wuhan, China
| | - Haiyan Huang
- Key Laboratory of Biomedical Polymers-Ministry of Education, College of Chemistry and Molecular Sciences, Wuhan University, Wuhan, China
| | - Kaitao Zhao
- State Key Laboratory of Virology and Hubei Province Key Laboratory of Allergy and Immunology, Institute of Medical Virology, TaiKang Center for Life and Medical Sciences, TaiKang Medical School, Wuhan University, Wuhan, China
| | - Yan Teng
- State Key Laboratory of Virology and Hubei Province Key Laboratory of Allergy and Immunology, Institute of Medical Virology, TaiKang Center for Life and Medical Sciences, TaiKang Medical School, Wuhan University, Wuhan, China
| | - Li Zhao
- State Key Laboratory of Virology and Hubei Province Key Laboratory of Allergy and Immunology, Institute of Medical Virology, TaiKang Center for Life and Medical Sciences, TaiKang Medical School, Wuhan University, Wuhan, China
| | - Zaichao Xu
- State Key Laboratory of Virology and Hubei Province Key Laboratory of Allergy and Immunology, Institute of Medical Virology, TaiKang Center for Life and Medical Sciences, TaiKang Medical School, Wuhan University, Wuhan, China
| | - Yingcheng Zheng
- State Key Laboratory of Virology and Hubei Province Key Laboratory of Allergy and Immunology, Institute of Medical Virology, TaiKang Center for Life and Medical Sciences, TaiKang Medical School, Wuhan University, Wuhan, China
| | - Lu Zhang
- State Key Laboratory of Virology and Hubei Province Key Laboratory of Allergy and Immunology, Institute of Medical Virology, TaiKang Center for Life and Medical Sciences, TaiKang Medical School, Wuhan University, Wuhan, China
| | - Conghui Li
- Department of Pathophysiology, TaiKang Medical School, Wuhan University, Wuhan, China
| | - Yurong Duan
- State Key Laboratory of Virology and Hubei Province Key Laboratory of Allergy and Immunology, Institute of Medical Virology, TaiKang Center for Life and Medical Sciences, TaiKang Medical School, Wuhan University, Wuhan, China
| | - Kaiwei Liang
- Department of Pathophysiology, TaiKang Medical School, Wuhan University, Wuhan, China
| | - Xiang Zhou
- Key Laboratory of Biomedical Polymers-Ministry of Education, College of Chemistry and Molecular Sciences, Wuhan University, Wuhan, China.
| | - Xiaoming Cheng
- State Key Laboratory of Virology and Hubei Province Key Laboratory of Allergy and Immunology, Institute of Medical Virology, TaiKang Center for Life and Medical Sciences, TaiKang Medical School, Wuhan University, Wuhan, China; Department of Pathology, Hubei Clinical Center and Key Laboratory of Intestinal and Colorectal Diseases, Zhongnan Hospital of Wuhan University, Wuhan University, Wuhan, China; Hubei Jiangxia Laboratory, Wuhan, China.
| | - Yuchen Xia
- State Key Laboratory of Virology and Hubei Province Key Laboratory of Allergy and Immunology, Institute of Medical Virology, TaiKang Center for Life and Medical Sciences, TaiKang Medical School, Wuhan University, Wuhan, China; Hubei Jiangxia Laboratory, Wuhan, China.
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10
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Pereira HS, Gemmill DL, Siddiqui MQ, Vasudeva G, Patel TR. Mapping and characterization of G-quadruplexes in monkeypox genomes. J Med Virol 2023; 95:e28783. [PMID: 37212309 DOI: 10.1002/jmv.28783] [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: 10/04/2022] [Revised: 04/19/2023] [Accepted: 04/22/2023] [Indexed: 05/23/2023]
Abstract
Monkeypox virus (MPXV) is a double-stranded DNA virus from the family Poxviridae, which is endemic in West and Central Africa. Various human outbreaks occurred in the 1980s, resulting from a cessation of smallpox vaccination. Recently, MPXV cases have reemerged in non-endemic nations, and the 2022 outbreak has been declared a public health emergency. Treatment optionsare limited, and many countries lack the infrastructure to provide symptomatic treatments. The development of cost-effective antivirals could ease severe health outcomes. G-quadruplexes have been a target of interest in treating viral infections with different chemicals. In the present work, a genomic-scale mapping of different MPXV isolates highlighted two conserved putative quadruplex-forming sequences MPXV-exclusive in 590 isolates. Subsequently, we assessed the G-quadruplex formation using circular dichroism spectroscopy and solution small-angle X-ray scattering. Furthermore, biochemical assays indicated the ability of MPXV quadruplexes to be recognized by two specific G4-binding partners-Thioflavin T and DHX36. Additionally, our work also suggests that a quadruplex binding small-molecule with previously reported antiviral activity, TMPyP4, interacts with MPXV G-quadruplexes with nanomolar affinity in the presence and absence of DHX36. Finally, cell biology experiments suggests that TMPyP4 treatment substantially reduced gene expression of MPXV proteins. In summary, our work provides insights into the G-quadruplexes from the MPXV genome that can be further exploited to develop therapeutics.
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Affiliation(s)
- Higor Sette Pereira
- Department of Chemistry and Biochemistry, Alberta RNA Research and Training Institute, University of Lethbridge, Lethbridge, Alberta, Canada
| | - Darren L Gemmill
- Department of Chemistry and Biochemistry, Alberta RNA Research and Training Institute, University of Lethbridge, Lethbridge, Alberta, Canada
| | - M Quadir Siddiqui
- Department of Chemistry and Biochemistry, Alberta RNA Research and Training Institute, University of Lethbridge, Lethbridge, Alberta, Canada
| | - Gunjan Vasudeva
- Department of Chemistry and Biochemistry, Alberta RNA Research and Training Institute, University of Lethbridge, Lethbridge, Alberta, Canada
| | - Trushar R Patel
- Department of Chemistry and Biochemistry, Alberta RNA Research and Training Institute, University of Lethbridge, Lethbridge, Alberta, Canada
- Department of Microbiology, Immunology and Infectious Disease, Cumming School of Medicine, University of Calgary, Calgary, Alberta, Canada
- Li Ka Shing Institute of Virology, University of Alberta, Edmonton, Alberta, Canada
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11
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Gao C, Mohamed HI, Deng J, Umer M, Anwar N, Chen J, Wu Q, Wang Z, He Y. Effects of Molecular Crowding on the Structure, Stability, and Interaction with Ligands of G-quadruplexes. ACS OMEGA 2023; 8:14342-14348. [PMID: 37125118 PMCID: PMC10134454 DOI: 10.1021/acsomega.3c01169] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/21/2023] [Accepted: 04/03/2023] [Indexed: 05/03/2023]
Abstract
G-quadruplexes (G4s) are widely found in cells and have significant biological functions, which makes them a target for screening antitumor and antiviral drugs. Most of the previous research on G4s has been conducted mainly in diluted solutions. However, cells are filled with organelles and many biomolecules, resulting in a constant state of a crowded molecular environment. The conformation and stability of some G4s were found to change significantly in the molecularly crowded environment, and interactions with ligands were disturbed to some extent. The structure of the G4s and their biological functions are correlated, and the effect of the molecularly crowded environment on G4 conformational transitions and interactions with ligands should be considered in drug design targeting G4s. This review discusses the changes in the conformation and stability of G4s in a physiological environment. Moreover, the mechanism of action of the molecularly crowded environment affecting the G4 has been further reviewed based on previous studies. Furthermore, current challenges and future research directions are put forward. This review has implications for the design of drugs targeting G4s.
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Affiliation(s)
- Chao Gao
- National
R&D Center for Se-rich Agricultural Products Processing, Hubei
Engineering Research Center for Deep Processing of Green Se-rich Agricultural
Products, School of Modern Industry for Selenium Science and Engineering, Wuhan Polytechnic University, Wuhan 430023, China
| | - Hany I. Mohamed
- Chemistry
Department, Faculty of Science, Benha University, Benha 13518, Egypt
| | - Jieya Deng
- National
R&D Center for Se-rich Agricultural Products Processing, Hubei
Engineering Research Center for Deep Processing of Green Se-rich Agricultural
Products, School of Modern Industry for Selenium Science and Engineering, Wuhan Polytechnic University, Wuhan 430023, China
| | - Muhammad Umer
- Institute
for Forest Resources and Environment of Guizhou and Forestry College,
Research Center of Forest Ecology, Guizhou
University, Guiyang 550025, China
| | - Naureen Anwar
- Department
of Zoology, University of Narowal, Narowal, Punjab 51600, Pakistan
| | - Jixin Chen
- National
R&D Center for Se-rich Agricultural Products Processing, Hubei
Engineering Research Center for Deep Processing of Green Se-rich Agricultural
Products, School of Modern Industry for Selenium Science and Engineering, Wuhan Polytechnic University, Wuhan 430023, China
| | - Qiao Wu
- Wuhan
Botanical Garden, Chinese Academy of Science, Wuhan 430074, China
| | - Zhangqian Wang
- National
R&D Center for Se-rich Agricultural Products Processing, Hubei
Engineering Research Center for Deep Processing of Green Se-rich Agricultural
Products, School of Modern Industry for Selenium Science and Engineering, Wuhan Polytechnic University, Wuhan 430023, China
| | - Yi He
- National
R&D Center for Se-rich Agricultural Products Processing, Hubei
Engineering Research Center for Deep Processing of Green Se-rich Agricultural
Products, School of Modern Industry for Selenium Science and Engineering, Wuhan Polytechnic University, Wuhan 430023, China
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12
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Real-Hohn A, Groznica M, Kontaxis G, Zhu R, Chaves OA, Vazquez L, Hinterdorfer P, Kowalski H, Blaas D. Stabilization of the Quadruplex-Forming G-Rich Sequences in the Rhinovirus Genome Inhibits Uncoating-Role of Na + and K . Viruses 2023; 15:1003. [PMID: 37112983 PMCID: PMC10141139 DOI: 10.3390/v15041003] [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: 03/21/2023] [Revised: 04/14/2023] [Accepted: 04/17/2023] [Indexed: 04/29/2023] Open
Abstract
Rhinoviruses (RVs) are the major cause of common cold, a respiratory disease that generally takes a mild course. However, occasionally, RV infection can lead to serious complications in patients debilitated by other ailments, e.g., asthma. Colds are a huge socioeconomic burden as neither vaccines nor other treatments are available. The many existing drug candidates either stabilize the capsid or inhibit the viral RNA polymerase, the viral proteinases, or the functions of other non-structural viral proteins; however, none has been approved by the FDA. Focusing on the genomic RNA as a possible target for antivirals, we asked whether stabilizing RNA secondary structures might inhibit the viral replication cycle. These secondary structures include G-quadruplexes (GQs), which are guanine-rich sequence stretches forming planar guanine tetrads via Hoogsteen base pairing with two or more of them stacking on top of each other; a number of small molecular drug candidates increase the energy required for their unfolding. The propensity of G-quadruplex formation can be predicted with bioinformatics tools and is expressed as a GQ score. Synthetic RNA oligonucleotides derived from the RV-A2 genome with sequences corresponding to the highest and lowest GQ scores indeed exhibited characteristics of GQs. In vivo, the GQ-stabilizing compounds, pyridostatin and PhenDC3, interfered with viral uncoating in Na+ but not in K+-containing phosphate buffers. The thermostability studies and ultrastructural imaging of protein-free viral RNA cores suggest that Na+ keeps the encapsulated genome more open, allowing PDS and PhenDC3 to diffuse into the quasi-crystalline RNA and promote the formation and/or stabilization of GQs; the resulting conformational changes impair RNA unraveling and release from the virion. Preliminary reports have been published.
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Affiliation(s)
- Antonio Real-Hohn
- Center of Medical Biochemistry, Vienna Biocenter, Max Perutz Laboratories, Medical University of Vienna, Dr. Bohr Gasse 9/3, 1030 Vienna, Austria; (M.G.)
| | - Martin Groznica
- Center of Medical Biochemistry, Vienna Biocenter, Max Perutz Laboratories, Medical University of Vienna, Dr. Bohr Gasse 9/3, 1030 Vienna, Austria; (M.G.)
- Institut Pasteur, CEDEX 15, 75724 Paris, France
| | - Georg Kontaxis
- Vienna Biocenter, Max Perutz Laboratories, Department of Structural and Computational Biology, University of Vienna, Campus Vienna BioCenter 5, 1030 Vienna, Austria;
| | - Rong Zhu
- Institute of Biophysics, Johannes Kepler University Linz, Gruberstr. 40, 4020 Linz, Austria; (R.Z.)
| | - Otávio Augusto Chaves
- Immunopharmacology Laboratory, Oswaldo Cruz Institute (IOC/Fiocruz), Av. Brasil, 4365, Rio de Janeiro 21040-360, Brazil
| | - Leonardo Vazquez
- Immunopharmacology Laboratory, Oswaldo Cruz Institute (IOC/Fiocruz), Av. Brasil, 4365, Rio de Janeiro 21040-360, Brazil
| | - Peter Hinterdorfer
- Institute of Biophysics, Johannes Kepler University Linz, Gruberstr. 40, 4020 Linz, Austria; (R.Z.)
| | - Heinrich Kowalski
- Center of Medical Biochemistry, Vienna Biocenter, Max Perutz Laboratories, Medical University of Vienna, Dr. Bohr Gasse 9/3, 1030 Vienna, Austria; (M.G.)
| | - Dieter Blaas
- Center of Medical Biochemistry, Vienna Biocenter, Max Perutz Laboratories, Medical University of Vienna, Dr. Bohr Gasse 9/3, 1030 Vienna, Austria; (M.G.)
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13
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Pávová M, Reyes-Gutiérrez PE, Kozák J, Dobiaš J, Yurenko Y, Lepšík M, Teplý F, Weber J. Helquat dyes targeting G-quadruplexes as a new class of anti-HIV-1 inhibitors. Sci Rep 2023; 13:6096. [PMID: 37055553 PMCID: PMC10102027 DOI: 10.1038/s41598-023-33263-3] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/05/2023] [Accepted: 04/11/2023] [Indexed: 04/15/2023] Open
Abstract
The secondary structure of nucleic acids containing quartets of guanines, termed G-quadruplexes, is known to regulate the transcription of many genes. Several G-quadruplexes can be formed in the HIV-1 long terminal repeat promoter region and their stabilization results in the inhibition of HIV-1 replication. Here, we identified helquat-based compounds as a new class of anti-HIV-1 inhibitors that inhibit HIV-1 replication at the stage of reverse transcription and provirus expression. Using Taq polymerase stop and FRET melting assays, we have demonstrated their ability to stabilize G-quadruplexes in the HIV-1 long-terminal repeat sequence. Moreover, these compounds were not binding to the general G-rich region, but rather to G-quadruplex-forming regions. Finally, docking and molecular dynamics calculations indicate that the structure of the helquat core greatly affects the binding mode to the individual G-quadruplexes. Our findings can provide useful information for the further rational design of inhibitors targeting G-quadruplexes in HIV-1.
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Affiliation(s)
- Marcela Pávová
- Institute of Organic Chemistry and Biochemistry of the Czech Academy of Sciences, Prague, 160 00, Czech Republic
| | - Paul Eduardo Reyes-Gutiérrez
- Institute of Organic Chemistry and Biochemistry of the Czech Academy of Sciences, Prague, 160 00, Czech Republic
| | - Jaroslav Kozák
- Institute of Organic Chemistry and Biochemistry of the Czech Academy of Sciences, Prague, 160 00, Czech Republic
| | - Juraj Dobiaš
- Institute of Organic Chemistry and Biochemistry of the Czech Academy of Sciences, Prague, 160 00, Czech Republic
| | - Yevgen Yurenko
- Institute of Organic Chemistry and Biochemistry of the Czech Academy of Sciences, Prague, 160 00, Czech Republic
| | - Martin Lepšík
- Institute of Organic Chemistry and Biochemistry of the Czech Academy of Sciences, Prague, 160 00, Czech Republic
| | - Filip Teplý
- Institute of Organic Chemistry and Biochemistry of the Czech Academy of Sciences, Prague, 160 00, Czech Republic
| | - Jan Weber
- Institute of Organic Chemistry and Biochemistry of the Czech Academy of Sciences, Prague, 160 00, Czech Republic.
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14
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Xu P, Yuan L, Wang K, Pan B, Ye Y, Lu K. Interaction of bifunctional peptide-carbazole complexes with DNA and antimicrobial activity. Int J Biol Macromol 2023; 237:124070. [PMID: 36940762 DOI: 10.1016/j.ijbiomac.2023.124070] [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: 11/10/2022] [Revised: 02/24/2023] [Accepted: 03/05/2023] [Indexed: 03/23/2023]
Abstract
Two peptide-carbazole conjugates, CTAT and CNLS, were designed and synthesized using carbazole Schiff base to modify the cell membrane penetrating peptide TAT (47-57) and the nuclear localization peptide NLS at the N terminus. The interaction with ctDNA was investigated by multispectral and agarose gel electrophoresis. And the effects of CNLS and CTAT on the G-quadruplex structure were explored by circular dichroism titration experiments. The results show that both CTAT and CNLS interact with ctDNA in a minor groove binding manner. Both conjugates bind more tightly to DNA than the individual substances CIBA, TAT and NLS. In addition, CTAT and CNLS are capable of unfolding parallel G-quadruplex structures and are potential G-quadruplex unfolding agents. Finally, broth microdilution was performed to test the antimicrobial activity of the peptides. The results showed that CTAT and CNLS had a 4-fold increase in antimicrobial activity compared with the parent peptides TAT and NLS. They could exert antimicrobial activity by disrupting the integrity of cell membrane bilayer and binding to DNA, and could be used as novel antimicrobial peptides for the development of novel antimicrobial antibiotics.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ping Xu
- College of Chemistry, Zhengzhou University, Zhengzhou 450001, China
| | - Libo Yuan
- College of Chemistry and Chemical Engineering, Henan University of Technology, Zhengzhou 450001, China
| | - Ke Wang
- College of Chemistry and Chemical Engineering, Henan University of Technology, Zhengzhou 450001, China
| | - Boyuan Pan
- College of Chemistry and Chemical Engineering, Henan University of Technology, Zhengzhou 450001, China
| | - Yong Ye
- College of Chemistry, Zhengzhou University, Zhengzhou 450001, China
| | - Kui Lu
- College of Chemistry, Zhengzhou University, Zhengzhou 450001, China; School of Chemical Engineering and Food Science, Zhengzhou University of Technology, Zhengzhou 450044, China.
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15
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Yegorov YE, Vishnyakova KS, Pan X, Egorov AE, Popov KV, Tevonyan LL, Chashchina GV, Kaluzhny DN. Mechanisms of Phototoxic Effects of Cationic Porphyrins on Human Cells In Vitro. Molecules 2023; 28:molecules28031090. [PMID: 36770766 PMCID: PMC9921399 DOI: 10.3390/molecules28031090] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/26/2022] [Revised: 01/17/2023] [Accepted: 01/17/2023] [Indexed: 01/24/2023] Open
Abstract
The toxic effects of four cationic porphyrins on various human cells were studied in vitro. It was found that, under dark conditions, porphyrins are almost nontoxic, while, under the action of light, the toxic effect was observed starting from nanomolar concentrations. At a concentration of 100 nM, porphyrins caused inhibition of metabolism in the MTT test in normal and cancer cells. Furthermore, low concentrations of porphyrins inhibited colony formation. The toxic effect was nonlinear; with increasing concentrations of various porphyrins, up to about 1 μM, the effect reached a plateau. In addition to the MTT test, this was repeated in experiments examining cell permeability to trypan blue, as well as survival after 24 h. The first visible manifestation of the toxic action of porphyrins is blebbing and swelling of cells. Against the background of this process, permeability to porphyrins and trypan blue appears. Subsequently, most cells (even mitotic cells) freeze in this swollen state for a long time (24 and even 48 h), remaining attached. Cellular morphology is mostly preserved. Thus, it is clear that the cells undergo mainly necrotic death. The hypothesis proposed is that the concentration dependence of membrane damage indicates a limited number of porphyrin targets on the membrane. These targets may be any ion channels, which should be considered in photodynamic therapy.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yegor E. Yegorov
- Engelhardt Institute of Molecular Biology, Russian Academy of Sciences, 119991 Moscow, Russia
- Correspondence: (Y.E.Y.); (D.N.K.)
| | - Khava S. Vishnyakova
- Engelhardt Institute of Molecular Biology, Russian Academy of Sciences, 119991 Moscow, Russia
| | - Xiaowen Pan
- Engelhardt Institute of Molecular Biology, Russian Academy of Sciences, 119991 Moscow, Russia
- Moscow Institute of Physics and Technology, Russian Academy of Sciences, 141701 Dolgoprudny, Russia
| | - Anton E. Egorov
- Emanuel Institute of Biochemical Physics, Russian Academy of Science, 4 Kosygin Street, 119334 Moscow, Russia
| | - Konstantin V. Popov
- Engelhardt Institute of Molecular Biology, Russian Academy of Sciences, 119991 Moscow, Russia
- National Medical Research Center for Obstetrics, Gynecology and Perinatology Named after Academician V.I.Kulakov, 4 Oparina Street, 117997 Moscow, Russia
| | - Liana L. Tevonyan
- Engelhardt Institute of Molecular Biology, Russian Academy of Sciences, 119991 Moscow, Russia
- Moscow Institute of Physics and Technology, Russian Academy of Sciences, 141701 Dolgoprudny, Russia
| | - Galina V. Chashchina
- Engelhardt Institute of Molecular Biology, Russian Academy of Sciences, 119991 Moscow, Russia
| | - Dmitry N. Kaluzhny
- Engelhardt Institute of Molecular Biology, Russian Academy of Sciences, 119991 Moscow, Russia
- Correspondence: (Y.E.Y.); (D.N.K.)
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16
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Ruggiero E, Richter SN. Targeting G-quadruplexes to achieve antiviral activity. Bioorg Med Chem Lett 2023; 79:129085. [PMID: 36423824 PMCID: PMC9760570 DOI: 10.1016/j.bmcl.2022.129085] [Citation(s) in RCA: 16] [Impact Index Per Article: 16.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/01/2022] [Revised: 11/09/2022] [Accepted: 11/16/2022] [Indexed: 11/22/2022]
Abstract
With the emergence of new viruses in the human population and the fast mutation rates of existing viruses, new antiviral targets and compounds are needed. Most existing antiviral drugs are active against proteins of a handful of viruses. Most of these proteins in the end affect viral nucleic acid processing, but direct nucleic acid targeting is less represented due to the difficulty of selectively acting at the nucleic acid of interest. Recently, nucleic acids have been shown to fold in structures alternative to the classic double helix and Watson and Crick base-pairing. Among these non-canonical structures, G-quadruplexes (G4s) have attracted interest because of their key biological roles that are being discovered. Molecules able to selectively target G4s have been developed and since G4s have been investigated as targets in several human pathologies, including viral infections. Here, after briefly introducing viruses, G4s and the G4-binding molecules with antiviral properties, we comment on the mechanisms at the base of the antiviral activity reported for G4-binding molecules. Understanding how G4-ligands act in infected cells will possibly help designing and developing next-generation antiviral drugs.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Sara N Richter
- Department of Molecular Medicine, University of Padua, Italy; Microbiology and Virology Unit, Padua University Hospital, Padua, Italy.
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17
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Teng Y, Zhu M, Chi Y, Li L, Jin Y. Can G-quadruplex become a promising target in HBV therapy? Front Immunol 2022; 13:1091873. [PMID: 36591216 PMCID: PMC9797731 DOI: 10.3389/fimmu.2022.1091873] [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: 11/07/2022] [Accepted: 11/28/2022] [Indexed: 12/23/2022] Open
Abstract
The chronic infection with hepatitis B virus (HBV) is an important health problem that affects millions of people worldwide. Current therapies for HBV always suffer from a poor response rate, common side effects, and the need for lifelong treatment. Novel therapeutic targets are expected. Interestingly, non-canonical structures of nucleic acids play crucial roles in the regulation of gene expression. Especially the formation of G-quadruplexes (G4s) in G-rich strands has been demonstrated to affect many bioprocesses including replication, transcription, and translation, showing great potential as targets in anticancer and antiviral therapies. In this review, we summarize recent antiviral studies about G4s and discuss the potential roles of G4 structures in antiviral therapy for HBV.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ye Teng
- School of Pharmacy, Changchun University of Chinese Medicine, Changchun, China
| | - Ming Zhu
- School of Pharmacy, Changchun University of Chinese Medicine, Changchun, China
| | - Yuan Chi
- Pharmaceutical Department, The Affiliated Hospital of Changchun University of Chinese Medicine, Changchun, China
| | - Lijing Li
- School of Pharmacy, Changchun University of Chinese Medicine, Changchun, China,*Correspondence: Lijing Li, ; Ye Jin,
| | - Ye Jin
- School of Pharmacy, Changchun University of Chinese Medicine, Changchun, China,*Correspondence: Lijing Li, ; Ye Jin,
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18
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Frasson I, Soldà P, Nadai M, Tassinari M, Scalabrin M, Gokhale V, Hurley LH, Richter SN. Quindoline-derivatives display potent G-quadruplex-mediated antiviral activity against herpes simplex virus 1. Antiviral Res 2022; 208:105432. [PMID: 36228762 PMCID: PMC9720158 DOI: 10.1016/j.antiviral.2022.105432] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/09/2022] [Revised: 10/04/2022] [Accepted: 10/06/2022] [Indexed: 12/14/2022]
Abstract
G-quadruplexes (G4s) are non-canonical nucleic acid structures that regulate key biological processes, from transcription to genome replication both in humans and viruses. The herpes simplex virus-1 (HSV-1) genome is prone to form G4s that, along with proteins, regulate its viral cycle. General G4 ligands have been shown to hamper the viral cycle, pointing to viral G4s as original antiviral targets. Because cellular G4s are also normally present in infected cells, the quest for improved anti-HSV-1 G4 ligands is still open. Here, we evaluated a series of new quindoline-derivatives which showed high binding to and stabilization of the viral G4s. They displayed nanomolar-range anti-HSV-1 activity paralleled by negligible cytotoxicity in human cells, thus proving remarkable selectivity. The best-in-class compound inhibited the viral life cycle at the early times post infection up to the step of viral genome replication. In infected human cells, it reduced expression of ICP4, the main viral transcription factor, by stabilizing the G4s embedded in ICP4 promoter. Quindoline-derivatives thus emerge as a new class of G4 ligands with potent dual anti HSV-1 activity.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ilaria Frasson
- Department of Molecular Medicine, University of Padua, Padua, Italy
| | - Paola Soldà
- Department of Molecular Medicine, University of Padua, Padua, Italy
| | - Matteo Nadai
- Department of Molecular Medicine, University of Padua, Padua, Italy
| | | | - Matteo Scalabrin
- Department of Molecular Medicine, University of Padua, Padua, Italy
| | - Vijay Gokhale
- BIO5 Institute, University of Arizona, Tucson, AZ, 85721, United States
| | - Laurence H Hurley
- College of Pharmacy, University of Arizona, Tucson, AZ, 85721, United States
| | - Sara N Richter
- Department of Molecular Medicine, University of Padua, Padua, Italy.
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19
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Gupta P, Khadake RM, Panja S, Shinde K, Rode AB. Alternative RNA Conformations: Companion or Combatant. Genes (Basel) 2022; 13:1930. [PMID: 36360167 PMCID: PMC9689429 DOI: 10.3390/genes13111930] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/22/2022] [Revised: 10/19/2022] [Accepted: 10/19/2022] [Indexed: 09/06/2024] Open
Abstract
RNA molecules, in one form or another, are involved in almost all aspects of cell physiology, as well as in disease development. The diversity of the functional roles of RNA comes from its intrinsic ability to adopt complex secondary and tertiary structures, rivaling the diversity of proteins. The RNA molecules form dynamic ensembles of many interconverting conformations at a timescale of seconds, which is a key for understanding how they execute their cellular functions. Given the crucial role of RNAs in various cellular processes, we need to understand the RNA molecules from a structural perspective. Central to this review are studies aimed at revealing the regulatory role of conformational equilibria in RNA in humans to understand genetic diseases such as cancer and neurodegenerative diseases, as well as in pathogens such as bacteria and viruses so as to understand the progression of infectious diseases. Furthermore, we also summarize the prior studies on the use of RNA structures as platforms for the rational design of small molecules for therapeutic applications.
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Affiliation(s)
| | | | | | | | - Ambadas B. Rode
- Regional Centre for Biotechnology, NCR Biotech Science Cluster, 3rd Milestone, Faridabad—Gurugram Expressway, Faridabad 121001, India
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20
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Qin G, Zhao C, Liu Y, Zhang C, Yang G, Yang J, Wang Z, Wang C, Tu C, Guo Z, Ren J, Qu X. RNA G-quadruplex formed in SARS-CoV-2 used for COVID-19 treatment in animal models. Cell Discov 2022; 8:86. [PMID: 36068208 PMCID: PMC9447362 DOI: 10.1038/s41421-022-00450-x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 31] [Impact Index Per Article: 15.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/19/2022] [Accepted: 07/25/2022] [Indexed: 12/24/2022] Open
Abstract
The ongoing COVID-19 pandemic has continued to affect millions of lives worldwide, leading to the urgent need for novel therapeutic strategies. G-quadruplexes (G4s) have been demonstrated to regulate life cycle of multiple viruses. Here, we identify several highly conservative and stable G4s in SARS-CoV-2 and clarify their dual-function of inhibition of the viral replication and translation processes. Furthermore, the cationic porphyrin compound 5,10,15,20-tetrakis-(N-methyl-4-pyridyl)porphine (TMPyP4) targeting SARS-CoV-2 G4s shows excellent antiviral activity, while its N-methyl-2-pyridyl positional isomer TMPyP2 with low affinity for G4 has no effects on SARS-CoV-2 infection, suggesting that the antiviral activity of TMPyP4 attributes to targeting SARS-CoV-2 G4s. In the Syrian hamster and transgenic mouse models of SARS-CoV-2 infection, administration of TMPyP4 at nontoxic doses significantly suppresses SARS-CoV-2 infection, resulting in reduced viral loads and lung lesions. Worth to note, the anti-COVID-19 activity of TMPyP4 is more potent than remdesivir evidenced by both in vitro and in vivo studies. Our findings highlight SARS-CoV-2 G4s as a novel druggable target and the compelling potential of TMPyP4 for COVID-19 therapy. Different from the existing anti-SARS-CoV-2 therapeutic strategies, our work provides another alternative therapeutic tactic for SARS-CoV-2 infection focusing on targeting the secondary structures within SARS-CoV-2 genome, and would open a new avenue for design and synthesis of drug candidates with high selectivity toward the new targets.
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Affiliation(s)
- Geng Qin
- Laboratory of Chemical Biology and State Key Laboratory of Rare Earth Resource Utilization, Changchun Institute of Applied Chemistry, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Changchun, Jilin, China.,University of Science and Technology of China, Hefei, Anhui, China
| | - Chuanqi Zhao
- Laboratory of Chemical Biology and State Key Laboratory of Rare Earth Resource Utilization, Changchun Institute of Applied Chemistry, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Changchun, Jilin, China.,University of Science and Technology of China, Hefei, Anhui, China
| | - Yan Liu
- Changchun Veterinary Research Institute, Chinese Academy of Agricultural Sciences, Changchun, Jilin, China
| | - Cheng Zhang
- Changchun Veterinary Research Institute, Chinese Academy of Agricultural Sciences, Changchun, Jilin, China.,Hebei Agricultural University, College of Veterinary Medicine, 2596 Lucky South Street, Baoding, Hebei, China
| | - Guang Yang
- Changchun Veterinary Research Institute, Chinese Academy of Agricultural Sciences, Changchun, Jilin, China
| | - Jie Yang
- Laboratory of Chemical Biology and State Key Laboratory of Rare Earth Resource Utilization, Changchun Institute of Applied Chemistry, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Changchun, Jilin, China.,University of Science and Technology of China, Hefei, Anhui, China
| | - Zhao Wang
- Laboratory of Chemical Biology and State Key Laboratory of Rare Earth Resource Utilization, Changchun Institute of Applied Chemistry, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Changchun, Jilin, China.,University of Science and Technology of China, Hefei, Anhui, China
| | - Chunyu Wang
- State Key Laboratory of Supramolecular Structure and Materials, Jilin University, Changchun, Jilin, China
| | - Changchun Tu
- Changchun Veterinary Research Institute, Chinese Academy of Agricultural Sciences, Changchun, Jilin, China
| | - Zhendong Guo
- Changchun Veterinary Research Institute, Chinese Academy of Agricultural Sciences, Changchun, Jilin, China
| | - Jinsong Ren
- Laboratory of Chemical Biology and State Key Laboratory of Rare Earth Resource Utilization, Changchun Institute of Applied Chemistry, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Changchun, Jilin, China.,University of Science and Technology of China, Hefei, Anhui, China
| | - Xiaogang Qu
- Laboratory of Chemical Biology and State Key Laboratory of Rare Earth Resource Utilization, Changchun Institute of Applied Chemistry, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Changchun, Jilin, China. .,University of Science and Technology of China, Hefei, Anhui, China.
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21
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Zhai LY, Liu JF, Zhao JJ, Su AM, Xi XG, Hou XM. Targeting the RNA G-Quadruplex and Protein Interactome for Antiviral Therapy. J Med Chem 2022; 65:10161-10182. [PMID: 35862260 DOI: 10.1021/acs.jmedchem.2c00649] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/28/2022]
Abstract
In recent years, G-quadruplexes (G4s), types of noncanonical four-stranded nucleic acid structures, have been identified in many viruses that threaten human health, such as HIV and Epstein-Barr virus. In this context, G4 ligands were designed to target the G4 structures, among which some have shown promising antiviral effects. In this Perspective, we first summarize the diversified roles of RNA G4s in different viruses. Next, we introduce small-molecule ligands developed as G4 modulators and highlight their applications in antiviral studies. In addition to G4s, we comprehensively review the medical intervention of G4-interacting proteins from both the virus (N protein, viral-encoded helicases, severe acute respiratory syndrome-unique domain, and Epstein-Barr nuclear antigen 1) and the host (heterogeneous nuclear ribonucleoproteins, RNA helicases, zinc-finger cellular nucelic acid-binding protein, and nucleolin) by inhibitors as an alternative way to disturb the normal functions of G4s. Finally, we discuss the challenges and opportunities in G4-based antiviral therapy.
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Affiliation(s)
- Li-Yan Zhai
- College of Life Sciences, Northwest A&F University, Xianyang, Shaanxi 712100, China
| | - Jing-Fan Liu
- College of Life Sciences, Northwest A&F University, Xianyang, Shaanxi 712100, China
| | - Jian-Jin Zhao
- College of Life Sciences, Northwest A&F University, Xianyang, Shaanxi 712100, China
| | - Ai-Min Su
- College of Life Sciences, Northwest A&F University, Xianyang, Shaanxi 712100, China
| | - Xu-Guang Xi
- College of Life Sciences, Northwest A&F University, Xianyang, Shaanxi 712100, China.,Laboratory of Biology and Applied Pharmacology, CNRS UMR 8113, IDA FR3242, ENS Paris-Saclay, Université Paris-Saclay, Gif-sur-Yvette 91190, France
| | - Xi-Miao Hou
- College of Life Sciences, Northwest A&F University, Xianyang, Shaanxi 712100, China
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22
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Ruggiero E, Frasson I, Tosoni E, Scalabrin M, Perrone R, Marušič M, Plavec J, Richter SN. Fused in Liposarcoma Protein, a New Player in the Regulation of HIV-1 Transcription, Binds to Known and Newly Identified LTR G-Quadruplexes. ACS Infect Dis 2022; 8:958-968. [PMID: 35502456 PMCID: PMC9112328 DOI: 10.1021/acsinfecdis.1c00508] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [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: 09/24/2021] [Indexed: 11/29/2022]
Abstract
HIV-1 integrated long terminal repeat (LTR) promoter activity is modulated by folding of its G-rich region into non-canonical nucleic acids structures, such as G-quadruplexes (G4s), and their interaction with cellular proteins. Here, by a combined pull-down/mass spectrometry/Western-blot approach, we identified the fused in liposarcoma (FUS) protein and found it to preferentially bind and stabilize the least stable and bulged LTR G4, especially in the cell environment. The outcome of this interaction is the down-regulation of viral transcription, as assessed in a reporter assay with LTR G4 mutants in FUS-silencing conditions. These data indicate that the complexity and dynamics of HIV-1 LTR G4s are much greater than previously envisaged. The G-rich LTR region, with its diverse G4 landscape and multiple cell protein interactions, stands out as prime sensing center for the fine regulation of viral transcription. This region thus represents a rational antiviral target for inhibiting both the actively transcribing and latent viruses.
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Affiliation(s)
- Emanuela Ruggiero
- Department
of Molecular Medicine, University of Padua, via Aristide Gabelli 63, Padua 35121, Italy
| | - Ilaria Frasson
- Department
of Molecular Medicine, University of Padua, via Aristide Gabelli 63, Padua 35121, Italy
| | - Elena Tosoni
- Department
of Molecular Medicine, University of Padua, via Aristide Gabelli 63, Padua 35121, Italy
| | - Matteo Scalabrin
- Department
of Molecular Medicine, University of Padua, via Aristide Gabelli 63, Padua 35121, Italy
| | - Rosalba Perrone
- Buck
Institute for Research on Aging, 8001 Redwood Boulevard, Novato, California 94945, United States
| | - Maja Marušič
- Slovenian
NMR Center, National Institute of Chemistry, Hajdrihova, 19, Ljubljana SI-1000, Slovenia
| | - Janez Plavec
- Slovenian
NMR Center, National Institute of Chemistry, Hajdrihova, 19, Ljubljana SI-1000, Slovenia
| | - Sara N. Richter
- Department
of Molecular Medicine, University of Padua, via Aristide Gabelli 63, Padua 35121, Italy
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23
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Kumar S, Ramamurthy C, Choudhary D, Sekar A, Patra A, Bhavesh NS, Vivekanandan P. Contrasting roles for G-quadruplexes in regulating human Bcl-2 and virus homologues KSHV KS-Bcl-2 and EBV BHRF1. Sci Rep 2022; 12:5019. [PMID: 35322051 PMCID: PMC8943185 DOI: 10.1038/s41598-022-08161-9] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/05/2021] [Accepted: 03/03/2022] [Indexed: 01/14/2023] Open
Abstract
Herpesviruses are known to acquire several genes from their hosts during evolution. We found that a significant proportion of virus homologues encoded by HSV-1, HSV-2, EBV and KSHV and their human counterparts contain G-quadruplex motifs in their promoters. We sought to understand the role of G-quadruplexes in the regulatory regions of viral Bcl-2 homologues encoded by KSHV (KS-Bcl-2) and EBV (BHRF1). We demonstrate that the KSHV KS-Bcl-2 and the EBV BHRF1 promoter G-quadruplex motifs (KSHV-GQ and EBV-GQ) form stable intramolecular G-quadruplexes. Ligand-mediated stabilization of KS-Bcl-2 and BHRF1 promoter G-quadruplexes significantly increased the promoter activity resulting in enhanced transcription of these viral Bcl-2 homologues. Mutations disrupting KSHV-GQ and EBV-GQ inhibit promoter activity and render the KS-Bcl-2 and the BHRF1 promoters non-responsive to G-quadruplex ligand. In contrast, promoter G-quadruplexes of human bcl-2 gene inhibit promoter activity. Further, KS-Bcl-2 and BHRF1 promoter G-quadruplexes augment RTA (a virus-encoded transcription factor)-mediated increase in viral bcl-2 promoter activity. In sum, this work highlights how human herpesviruses have evolved to exploit promoter G-quadruplexes to regulate virus homologues to counter their cellular counterparts.
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Affiliation(s)
- Shivani Kumar
- Kusuma School of Biological Sciences, Indian Institute of Technology, Delhi, New Delhi, 110016, India
| | - Chitteti Ramamurthy
- Kusuma School of Biological Sciences, Indian Institute of Technology, Delhi, New Delhi, 110016, India
| | - Divya Choudhary
- Department of Chemical Engineering, Indian Institute of Technology, Delhi, New Delhi, 110016, India
| | - Aashika Sekar
- Department of Biochemical Engineering and Biotechnology, Indian Institute of Technology, Delhi, New Delhi, 110016, India
| | - Anupam Patra
- Transcription Regulation Group, International Centre for Genetic Engineering and Biotechnology, Delhi, New Delhi, 110067, India
| | - Neel Sarovar Bhavesh
- Transcription Regulation Group, International Centre for Genetic Engineering and Biotechnology, Delhi, New Delhi, 110067, India
| | - Perumal Vivekanandan
- Kusuma School of Biological Sciences, Indian Institute of Technology, Delhi, New Delhi, 110016, India.
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24
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Mendes E, Aljnadi IM, Bahls B, Victor BL, Paulo A. Major Achievements in the Design of Quadruplex-Interactive Small Molecules. Pharmaceuticals (Basel) 2022; 15:300. [PMID: 35337098 PMCID: PMC8953082 DOI: 10.3390/ph15030300] [Citation(s) in RCA: 21] [Impact Index Per Article: 10.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/27/2022] [Revised: 02/22/2022] [Accepted: 02/24/2022] [Indexed: 12/17/2022] Open
Abstract
Organic small molecules that can recognize and bind to G-quadruplex and i-Motif nucleic acids have great potential as selective drugs or as tools in drug target discovery programs, or even in the development of nanodevices for medical diagnosis. Hundreds of quadruplex-interactive small molecules have been reported, and the challenges in their design vary with the intended application. Herein, we survey the major achievements on the therapeutic potential of such quadruplex ligands, their mode of binding, effects upon interaction with quadruplexes, and consider the opportunities and challenges for their exploitation in drug discovery.
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Affiliation(s)
- Eduarda Mendes
- Faculty of Pharmacy, Research Institute for Medicines (iMed.Ulisboa), Universidade de Lisboa, 1649-003 Lisbon, Portugal; (E.M.); (I.M.A.); (B.B.)
| | - Israa M. Aljnadi
- Faculty of Pharmacy, Research Institute for Medicines (iMed.Ulisboa), Universidade de Lisboa, 1649-003 Lisbon, Portugal; (E.M.); (I.M.A.); (B.B.)
- Faculty of Sciences, BioISI, Biosystems and Integrative Sciences Institute, Universidade de Lisboa, 1749-016 Lisbon, Portugal;
| | - Bárbara Bahls
- Faculty of Pharmacy, Research Institute for Medicines (iMed.Ulisboa), Universidade de Lisboa, 1649-003 Lisbon, Portugal; (E.M.); (I.M.A.); (B.B.)
- Faculty of Sciences, BioISI, Biosystems and Integrative Sciences Institute, Universidade de Lisboa, 1749-016 Lisbon, Portugal;
| | - Bruno L. Victor
- Faculty of Sciences, BioISI, Biosystems and Integrative Sciences Institute, Universidade de Lisboa, 1749-016 Lisbon, Portugal;
| | - Alexandra Paulo
- Faculty of Pharmacy, Research Institute for Medicines (iMed.Ulisboa), Universidade de Lisboa, 1649-003 Lisbon, Portugal; (E.M.); (I.M.A.); (B.B.)
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25
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Haldar S, Zhang Y, Xia Y, Islam B, Liu S, Gervasio FL, Mulholland AJ, Waller ZAE, Wei D, Haider S. Mechanistic Insights into the Ligand-Induced Unfolding of an RNA G-Quadruplex. J Am Chem Soc 2022; 144:935-950. [PMID: 34989224 DOI: 10.1021/jacs.1c11248] [Citation(s) in RCA: 21] [Impact Index Per Article: 10.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/11/2022]
Abstract
The cationic porphyrin TMPyP4 is a well-established DNA G-quadruplex (G4) binding ligand that can stabilize different topologies via multiple binding modes. However, TMPyP4 can have both a stabilizing and destabilizing effect on RNA G4 structures. The structural mechanisms that mediate RNA G4 unfolding remain unknown. Here, we report on the TMPyP4-induced RNA G4 unfolding mechanism studied by well-tempered metadynamics (WT-MetaD) with supporting biophysical experiments. The simulations predict a two-state mechanism of TMPyP4 interaction via a groove-bound and a top-face-bound conformation. The dynamics of TMPyP4 stacking on the top tetrad disrupts Hoogsteen H-bonds between guanine bases, resulting in the consecutive TMPyP4 intercalation from top-to-bottom G-tetrads. The results reveal a striking correlation between computational and experimental approaches and validate WT-MetaD simulations as a powerful tool for studying RNA G4-ligand interactions.
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Affiliation(s)
- Susanta Haldar
- School of Chemistry, University of Bristol, Bristol, BS8 1TS, U.K
- D.E. Shaw India Private Ltd., Hyderabad, Telangana 500096, India
| | - Yashu Zhang
- State Key Laboratory of Agricultural Microbiology, College of Vetrinary Medicine, Huazhong Agricultural University, Wuhan 430070, China
- College of Plant Science and Technology, Huazhong Agricultural University, Wuhan 430070, China
| | - Ying Xia
- UCL School of Pharmacy, University College London, London, WC1N 1AX, U.K
| | - Barira Islam
- Department of Pharmacy, School of Applied Sciences, University of Huddersfield, Huddersfield, HD1 3DH, U.K
| | - Sisi Liu
- College of Science, Huazhong Agricultural University, Wuhan 430070, China
| | - Francesco L Gervasio
- Department of Chemistry, University College London, London, WC1H 0AJ, U.K
- Pharmaceutical Sciences, University of Geneva, Geneva CH-1211, Switzerland
- Institute of Pharmaceutical Sciences of Western Switzerland (ISPSO), Geneva CH-1211, Switzerland
| | | | - Zoë A E Waller
- UCL School of Pharmacy, University College London, London, WC1N 1AX, U.K
| | - Dengguo Wei
- State Key Laboratory of Agricultural Microbiology, College of Vetrinary Medicine, Huazhong Agricultural University, Wuhan 430070, China
- National Reference Laboratory of Veterinary Drug Residues and MAO Key Laboratory for Detection of Veterinary Drug Residues, Huazhong Agricultural University, Wuhan 430070, China
- Hubei Hongshan Laboratory, Huazhong Agricultural University, Wuhan 430070, China
- Interdisciplinary Sciences Institute, Huazhong Agricultural University, Wuhan 430070, China
| | - Shozeb Haider
- UCL School of Pharmacy, University College London, London, WC1N 1AX, U.K
- UCL Centre for Advanced Research Computing, University College London, London, WC1H 9RN, U.K
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26
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Xu J, Huang H, Zhou X. G-Quadruplexes in Neurobiology and Virology: Functional Roles and Potential Therapeutic Approaches. JACS AU 2021; 1:2146-2161. [PMID: 34977886 PMCID: PMC8715485 DOI: 10.1021/jacsau.1c00451] [Citation(s) in RCA: 21] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/12/2021] [Indexed: 05/11/2023]
Abstract
A G-quadruplex (G4) is a four-stranded nucleic acid secondary structure maintained by Hoogsteen hydrogen bonds established between four guanines. Experimental studies and bioinformatics predictions support the hypothesis that these structures are involved in different cellular functions associated with both DNA and RNA processes. An increasing number of diseases have been shown to be associated with abnormal G4 regulation. Here, we describe the existence of G4 and then discuss G4-related pathogenic mechanisms in neurodegenerative diseases and the viral life cycle. Furthermore, we focus on the role of G4s in the design of antiviral therapy and neuropharmacology, including G4 ligands, G4-based aptamers, G4-related proteins, and CRISPR-based sequence editing, along with a discussion of limitations and insights into the prospects of this unusual nucleic acid secondary structure in therapeutics. Finally, we highlight progress and challenges in this field and the potential G4-related research fields.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jinglei Xu
- The
Institute of Advanced Studies, Key Laboratory of Biomedical Polymers-Ministry
of Education, Wuhan University, Wuhan 430072, China
| | - Haiyan Huang
- Key
Laboratory of Biomedical Polymers-Ministry of Education, College of
Chemistry and Molecular Sciences, Wuhan
University, Wuhan 430072, China
| | - Xiang Zhou
- The
Institute of Advanced Studies, Key Laboratory of Biomedical Polymers-Ministry
of Education, Wuhan University, Wuhan 430072, China
- Key
Laboratory of Biomedical Polymers-Ministry of Education, College of
Chemistry and Molecular Sciences, Wuhan
University, Wuhan 430072, China
- Email to X.Z.:
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27
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Zhou W, Cheng Y, Song B, Hao J, Miao W, Jia G, Li C. Cationic Porphyrin-Mediated G-Quadruplex DNA Oxidative Damage: Regulated by the Initial Interplay between DNA and TMPyP4. Biochemistry 2021; 60:3707-3713. [PMID: 34757721 DOI: 10.1021/acs.biochem.1c00557] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/29/2022]
Abstract
G-quadruplex (G4) ligand-induced DNA damage has been involved in many physiological functions of cells. Herein, cationic porphyrin (TMPyP4)-mediated DNA oxidation damage was investigated aiming at mitochondrial G4 DNA (mt9438) and its structural analogue of the thrombin-binding aptamer (TBA). TMPyP4 is found to stabilize TBA G4 but destabilize mt9438. For two resulting DNA-TMPyP4 assemblies, the distinct light-induced singlet oxygen (1O2) generation and the subsequent DNA damage were found. For mt9438-TMPyP4, a slower 1O2-induced DNA damage takes place and results in the formation of DNA aggregation. In contrast, 1O2 tends to promote DNA unfolding in a relatively faster rate for TBA-TMPyP4. Despite of such distinct DNA damage behavior, UV resonance Raman spectra reveal that for both mt9438-TMPyP4 and TBA-TMPyP4 the DNA damage commonly stems from the guanine-specific oxidation. Our results clearly indicate that the ligand-mediated DNA damage is strongly dependent on the initial interplay between DNA and the ligand.
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Affiliation(s)
- Wenqin Zhou
- Zhang Dayu School of Chemistry, Dalian University of Technology, Dalian 116024, China.,State Key Laboratory of Catalysis, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Dalian Institute of Chemical Physics, Dalian 116023, China.,University of Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing 100049, China
| | - Yu Cheng
- State Key Laboratory of Catalysis, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Dalian Institute of Chemical Physics, Dalian 116023, China
| | - Bo Song
- State Key Laboratory of Fine Chemicals, School of Chemical Engineering, Dalian University of Technology, Dalian 116024, P. R. China
| | - Jingya Hao
- State Key Laboratory of Catalysis, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Dalian Institute of Chemical Physics, Dalian 116023, China
| | - Wenhui Miao
- State Key Laboratory of Catalysis, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Dalian Institute of Chemical Physics, Dalian 116023, China.,University of Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing 100049, China
| | - Guoqing Jia
- State Key Laboratory of Catalysis, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Dalian Institute of Chemical Physics, Dalian 116023, China
| | - Can Li
- Zhang Dayu School of Chemistry, Dalian University of Technology, Dalian 116024, China.,State Key Laboratory of Catalysis, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Dalian Institute of Chemical Physics, Dalian 116023, China
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28
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Ruggiero E, Zanin I, Terreri M, Richter SN. G-Quadruplex Targeting in the Fight against Viruses: An Update. Int J Mol Sci 2021; 22:ijms222010984. [PMID: 34681641 PMCID: PMC8538215 DOI: 10.3390/ijms222010984] [Citation(s) in RCA: 39] [Impact Index Per Article: 13.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/20/2021] [Revised: 10/07/2021] [Accepted: 10/08/2021] [Indexed: 12/16/2022] Open
Abstract
G-quadruplexes (G4s) are noncanonical nucleic acid structures involved in the regulation of key cellular processes, such as transcription and replication. Since their discovery, G4s have been mainly investigated for their role in cancer and as targets in anticancer therapy. More recently, exploration of the presence and role of G4s in viral genomes has led to the discovery of G4-regulated key viral pathways. In this context, employment of selective G4 ligands has helped to understand the complexity of G4-mediated mechanisms in the viral life cycle, and highlighted the possibility to target viral G4s as an emerging antiviral approach. Research in this field is growing at a fast pace, providing increasing evidence of the antiviral activity of old and new G4 ligands. This review aims to provide a punctual update on the literature on G4 ligands exploited in virology. Different classes of G4 binders are described, with emphasis on possible antiviral applications in emerging diseases, such as the current COVID-19 pandemic. Strengths and weaknesses of G4 targeting in viruses are discussed.
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29
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Real-Hohn A, Blaas D. Rhinovirus Inhibitors: Including a New Target, the Viral RNA. Viruses 2021; 13:1784. [PMID: 34578365 PMCID: PMC8473194 DOI: 10.3390/v13091784] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/27/2021] [Revised: 07/21/2021] [Accepted: 09/03/2021] [Indexed: 12/18/2022] Open
Abstract
Rhinoviruses (RVs) are the main cause of recurrent infections with rather mild symptoms characteristic of the common cold. Nevertheless, RVs give rise to enormous numbers of absences from work and school and may become life-threatening in particular settings. Vaccination is jeopardised by the large number of serotypes eliciting only poorly cross-neutralising antibodies. Conversely, antivirals developed over the years failed FDA approval because of a low efficacy and/or side effects. RV species A, B, and C are now included in the fifteen species of the genus Enteroviruses based upon the high similarity of their genome sequences. As a result of their comparably low pathogenicity, RVs have become a handy model for other, more dangerous members of this genus, e.g., poliovirus and enterovirus 71. We provide a short overview of viral proteins that are considered potential drug targets and their corresponding drug candidates. We briefly mention more recently identified cellular enzymes whose inhibition impacts on RVs and comment novel approaches to interfere with infection via aggregation, virus trapping, or preventing viral access to the cell receptor. Finally, we devote a large part of this article to adding the viral RNA genome to the list of potential drug targets by dwelling on its structure, folding, and the still debated way of its exit from the capsid. Finally, we discuss the recent finding that G-quadruplex stabilising compounds impact on RNA egress possibly via obfuscating the unravelling of stable secondary structural elements.
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Affiliation(s)
- Antonio Real-Hohn
- Center for Medical Biochemistry, Vienna Biocenter, Max Perutz Laboratories, Medical University of Vienna, Dr. Bohr Gasse 9/3, A-1030 Vienna, Austria
| | - Dieter Blaas
- Center for Medical Biochemistry, Vienna Biocenter, Max Perutz Laboratories, Medical University of Vienna, Dr. Bohr Gasse 9/3, A-1030 Vienna, Austria
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30
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Mariewskaya KA, Tyurin AP, Chistov AA, Korshun VA, Alferova VA, Ustinov AV. Photosensitizing Antivirals. Molecules 2021; 26:3971. [PMID: 34209713 PMCID: PMC8271894 DOI: 10.3390/molecules26133971] [Citation(s) in RCA: 16] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/30/2021] [Revised: 06/22/2021] [Accepted: 06/27/2021] [Indexed: 12/23/2022] Open
Abstract
Antiviral action of various photosensitizers is already summarized in several comprehensive reviews, and various mechanisms have been proposed for it. However, a critical consideration of the matter of the area is complicated, since the exact mechanisms are very difficult to explore and clarify, and most publications are of an empirical and "phenomenological" nature, reporting a dependence of the antiviral action on illumination, or a correlation of activity with the photophysical properties of the substances. Of particular interest is substance-assisted photogeneration of highly reactive singlet oxygen (1O2). The damaging action of 1O2 on the lipids of the viral envelope can probably lead to a loss of the ability of the lipid bilayer of enveloped viruses to fuse with the lipid membrane of the host cell. Thus, lipid bilayer-affine 1O2 photosensitizers have prospects as broad-spectrum antivirals against enveloped viruses. In this short review, we want to point out the main types of antiviral photosensitizers with potential affinity to the lipid bilayer and summarize the data on new compounds over the past three years. Further understanding of the data in the field will spur a targeted search for substances with antiviral activity against enveloped viruses among photosensitizers able to bind to the lipid membranes.
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Affiliation(s)
- Kseniya A. Mariewskaya
- Shemyakin-Ovchinnikov Institute of Bioorganic Chemistry, Miklukho-Maklaya 16/10, 117997 Moscow, Russia; (K.A.M.); (A.P.T.); (A.A.C.); (V.A.K.)
- Higher Chemical College of the Russian Academy of Sciences, Mendeleev University of Chemical Technology, Miusskaya sq. 9, 125047 Moscow, Russia
| | - Anton P. Tyurin
- Shemyakin-Ovchinnikov Institute of Bioorganic Chemistry, Miklukho-Maklaya 16/10, 117997 Moscow, Russia; (K.A.M.); (A.P.T.); (A.A.C.); (V.A.K.)
- Gause Institute of New Antibiotics, B. Pirogovskaya 11, 119021 Moscow, Russia
| | - Alexey A. Chistov
- Shemyakin-Ovchinnikov Institute of Bioorganic Chemistry, Miklukho-Maklaya 16/10, 117997 Moscow, Russia; (K.A.M.); (A.P.T.); (A.A.C.); (V.A.K.)
| | - Vladimir A. Korshun
- Shemyakin-Ovchinnikov Institute of Bioorganic Chemistry, Miklukho-Maklaya 16/10, 117997 Moscow, Russia; (K.A.M.); (A.P.T.); (A.A.C.); (V.A.K.)
| | - Vera A. Alferova
- Shemyakin-Ovchinnikov Institute of Bioorganic Chemistry, Miklukho-Maklaya 16/10, 117997 Moscow, Russia; (K.A.M.); (A.P.T.); (A.A.C.); (V.A.K.)
- Gause Institute of New Antibiotics, B. Pirogovskaya 11, 119021 Moscow, Russia
| | - Alexey V. Ustinov
- Shemyakin-Ovchinnikov Institute of Bioorganic Chemistry, Miklukho-Maklaya 16/10, 117997 Moscow, Russia; (K.A.M.); (A.P.T.); (A.A.C.); (V.A.K.)
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31
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Scognamiglio PL, Platella C, Napolitano E, Musumeci D, Roviello GN. From Prebiotic Chemistry to Supramolecular Biomedical Materials: Exploring the Properties of Self-Assembling Nucleobase-Containing Peptides. Molecules 2021; 26:3558. [PMID: 34200901 PMCID: PMC8230524 DOI: 10.3390/molecules26123558] [Citation(s) in RCA: 16] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/07/2021] [Revised: 05/27/2021] [Accepted: 05/28/2021] [Indexed: 12/24/2022] Open
Abstract
Peptides and their synthetic analogs are a class of molecules with enormous relevance as therapeutics for their ability to interact with biomacromolecules like nucleic acids and proteins, potentially interfering with biological pathways often involved in the onset and progression of pathologies of high social impact. Nucleobase-bearing peptides (nucleopeptides) and pseudopeptides (PNAs) offer further interesting possibilities related to their nucleobase-decorated nature for diagnostic and therapeutic applications, thanks to their reported ability to target complementary DNA and RNA strands. In addition, these chimeric compounds are endowed with intriguing self-assembling properties, which are at the heart of their investigation as self-replicating materials in prebiotic chemistry, as well as their application as constituents of innovative drug delivery systems and, more generally, as novel nanomaterials to be employed in biomedicine. Herein we describe the properties of nucleopeptides, PNAs and related supramolecular systems, and summarize some of the most relevant applications of these systems.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Chiara Platella
- Department of Chemical Sciences, University of Naples Federico II, via Cintia 21, I-80126 Naples, Italy; (C.P.); (E.N.); (D.M.)
| | - Ettore Napolitano
- Department of Chemical Sciences, University of Naples Federico II, via Cintia 21, I-80126 Naples, Italy; (C.P.); (E.N.); (D.M.)
| | - Domenica Musumeci
- Department of Chemical Sciences, University of Naples Federico II, via Cintia 21, I-80126 Naples, Italy; (C.P.); (E.N.); (D.M.)
- Istituto di Biostrutture e Bioimmagini IBB-CNR, via Tommaso De Amicis 95, I-80145 Naples, Italy
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