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Kirstgen M, Müller SF, Lowjaga KAAT, Goldmann N, Lehmann F, Alakurtti S, Yli-Kauhaluoma J, Baringhaus KH, Krieg R, Glebe D, Geyer J. Identification of Novel HBV/HDV Entry Inhibitors by Pharmacophore- and QSAR-Guided Virtual Screening. Viruses 2021; 13:v13081489. [PMID: 34452354 PMCID: PMC8402622 DOI: 10.3390/v13081489] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/24/2021] [Revised: 07/19/2021] [Accepted: 07/24/2021] [Indexed: 12/17/2022] Open
Abstract
The hepatic bile acid transporter Na+/taurocholate co-transporting polypeptide (NTCP) was identified in 2012 as the high-affinity hepatic receptor for the hepatitis B and D viruses (HBV/HDV). Since then, this carrier has emerged as promising drug target for HBV/HDV virus entry inhibitors, but the synthetic peptide Hepcludex® of high molecular weight is the only approved HDV entry inhibitor so far. The present study aimed to identify small molecules as novel NTCP inhibitors with anti-viral activity. A ligand-based bioinformatic approach was used to generate and validate appropriate pharmacophore and QSAR (quantitative structure–activity relationship) models. Half-maximal inhibitory concentrations (IC50) for binding inhibition of the HBV/HDV-derived preS1 peptide (as surrogate parameter for virus binding to NTCP) were determined in NTCP-expressing HEK293 cells for 150 compounds of different chemical classes. IC50 values ranged from 2 µM up to >1000 µM. The generated pharmacophore and QSAR models were used for virtual screening of drug-like chemicals from the ZINC15 database (~11 million compounds). The 20 best-performing compounds were then experimentally tested for preS1-peptide binding inhibition in NTCP-HEK293 cells. Among them, four compounds were active and revealed experimental IC50 values for preS1-peptide binding inhibition of 9, 19, 20, and 35 µM, which were comparable to the QSAR-based predictions. All these compounds also significantly inhibited in vitro HDV infection of NTCP-HepG2 cells, without showing any cytotoxicity. The best-performing compound in all assays was ZINC000253533654. In conclusion, the present study demonstrates that virtual compound screening based on NTCP-specific pharmacophore and QSAR models can predict novel active hit compounds for the development of HBV/HDV entry inhibitors.
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Affiliation(s)
- Michael Kirstgen
- Institute of Pharmacology and Toxicology, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, Justus Liebig University Giessen, 35392 Giessen, Germany; (M.K.); (S.F.M.); (K.A.A.T.L.)
| | - Simon Franz Müller
- Institute of Pharmacology and Toxicology, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, Justus Liebig University Giessen, 35392 Giessen, Germany; (M.K.); (S.F.M.); (K.A.A.T.L.)
| | - Kira Alessandra Alicia Theresa Lowjaga
- Institute of Pharmacology and Toxicology, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, Justus Liebig University Giessen, 35392 Giessen, Germany; (M.K.); (S.F.M.); (K.A.A.T.L.)
| | - Nora Goldmann
- Institute of Medical Virology, National Reference Center for Hepatitis B Viruses and Hepatitis D Viruses, Justus Liebig University Giessen, 35392 Giessen, Germany; (N.G.); (F.L.); (D.G.)
| | - Felix Lehmann
- Institute of Medical Virology, National Reference Center for Hepatitis B Viruses and Hepatitis D Viruses, Justus Liebig University Giessen, 35392 Giessen, Germany; (N.G.); (F.L.); (D.G.)
| | - Sami Alakurtti
- Drug Research Program, Division of Pharmaceutical Chemistry and Technology, Faculty of Pharmacy, University of Helsinki, Viikinkaari 5 E, FI-00014 Helsinki, Finland; (S.A.); (J.Y.-K.)
- VTT Technical Research Centre of Finland, Biologinkuja 7, FI-02044 Espoo, Finland
| | - Jari Yli-Kauhaluoma
- Drug Research Program, Division of Pharmaceutical Chemistry and Technology, Faculty of Pharmacy, University of Helsinki, Viikinkaari 5 E, FI-00014 Helsinki, Finland; (S.A.); (J.Y.-K.)
| | | | - Reimar Krieg
- Institute of Anatomy II, University Hospital Jena, Teichgraben 7, 07743 Jena, Germany;
| | - Dieter Glebe
- Institute of Medical Virology, National Reference Center for Hepatitis B Viruses and Hepatitis D Viruses, Justus Liebig University Giessen, 35392 Giessen, Germany; (N.G.); (F.L.); (D.G.)
- German Center for Infection Research (DZIF), Partner Site Giessen-Marburg-Langen, 35392 Giessen, Germany
| | - Joachim Geyer
- Institute of Pharmacology and Toxicology, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, Justus Liebig University Giessen, 35392 Giessen, Germany; (M.K.); (S.F.M.); (K.A.A.T.L.)
- Correspondence: ; Tel.: +49-641-99-38404; Fax: +49-641-99-38409
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Alcazar W, Alakurtti S, Padrón-Nieves M, Tuononen ML, Rodríguez N, Yli-Kauhaluoma J, Ponte-Sucre A. Leishmanicidal Activity of Betulin Derivatives in Leishmania amazonensis; Effect on Plasma and Mitochondrial Membrane Potential, and Macrophage Nitric Oxide and Superoxide Production. Microorganisms 2021; 9:320. [PMID: 33557150 PMCID: PMC7913927 DOI: 10.3390/microorganisms9020320] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/19/2020] [Revised: 01/24/2021] [Accepted: 01/29/2021] [Indexed: 11/25/2022] Open
Abstract
Herein, we evaluated in vitro the anti-leishmanial activity of betulin derivatives in Venezuelan isolates of Leishmania amazonensis, isolated from patients with therapeutic failure. METHODS We analyzed promastigote in vitro susceptibility as well as the cytotoxicity and selectivity of the evaluated compounds. Additionally, the activity of selected compounds was determined in intracellular amastigotes. Finally, to gain hints on their potential mechanism of action, the effect of the most promising compounds on plasma and mitochondrial membrane potential, and nitric oxide and superoxide production by infected macrophages was determined. RESULTS From the tested 28 compounds, those numbered 18 and 22 were chosen for additional studies. Both 18 and 22 were active (GI50 ≤ 2 µM, cytotoxic CC50 > 45 µM, SI > 20) for the reference strain LTB0016 and for patient isolates. The results suggest that 18 significantly depolarized the plasma membrane potential (p < 0.05) and the mitochondrial membrane potential (p < 0.05) when compared to untreated cells. Although neither 18 nor 22 induced nitric oxide production in infected macrophages, 18 induced superoxide production in infected macrophages. CONCLUSION Our results suggest that due to their efficacy and selectivity against intracellular parasites and the potential mechanisms underlying their leishmanicidal effect, the compounds 18 and 22 could be used as tools for designing new chemotherapies against leishmaniasis.
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Affiliation(s)
- Wilmer Alcazar
- Laboratory of Molecular Physiology, Institute of Experimental Medicine, School of Medicine Luis Razetti, Faculty of Medicine, Universidad Central de Venezuela, P.O. Box 50587, Caracas 1050, Venezuela; (W.A.); (M.P.-N.)
| | - Sami Alakurtti
- Drug Research Program, Division of Pharmaceutical Chemistry and Technology, Faculty of Pharmacy, University of Helsinki, Viikinkaari 5 E, P.O. Box 56, FI-00014 Helsinki, Finland; (S.A.); (M.L.T.)
- VTT Technical Research Centre of Finland, Biologinkuja 7, P.O. Box 1000, FI-02044 Espoo, Finland
| | - Maritza Padrón-Nieves
- Laboratory of Molecular Physiology, Institute of Experimental Medicine, School of Medicine Luis Razetti, Faculty of Medicine, Universidad Central de Venezuela, P.O. Box 50587, Caracas 1050, Venezuela; (W.A.); (M.P.-N.)
| | - Maija Liisa Tuononen
- Drug Research Program, Division of Pharmaceutical Chemistry and Technology, Faculty of Pharmacy, University of Helsinki, Viikinkaari 5 E, P.O. Box 56, FI-00014 Helsinki, Finland; (S.A.); (M.L.T.)
- VTT Technical Research Centre of Finland, Biologinkuja 7, P.O. Box 1000, FI-02044 Espoo, Finland
| | - Noris Rodríguez
- Laboratory of Genetic Engineering, Institute of Biomedicine, Universidad Central de Venezuela, P.O. Box 4043, Caracas 1010A, Venezuela;
| | - Jari Yli-Kauhaluoma
- Drug Research Program, Division of Pharmaceutical Chemistry and Technology, Faculty of Pharmacy, University of Helsinki, Viikinkaari 5 E, P.O. Box 56, FI-00014 Helsinki, Finland; (S.A.); (M.L.T.)
| | - Alicia Ponte-Sucre
- Laboratory of Molecular Physiology, Institute of Experimental Medicine, School of Medicine Luis Razetti, Faculty of Medicine, Universidad Central de Venezuela, P.O. Box 50587, Caracas 1050, Venezuela; (W.A.); (M.P.-N.)
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3
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Kirstgen M, Lowjaga KAAT, Müller SF, Goldmann N, Lehmann F, Alakurtti S, Yli-Kauhaluoma J, Glebe D, Geyer J. Selective hepatitis B and D virus entry inhibitors from the group of pentacyclic lupane-type betulin-derived triterpenoids. Sci Rep 2020; 10:21772. [PMID: 33303817 PMCID: PMC7729925 DOI: 10.1038/s41598-020-78618-2] [Citation(s) in RCA: 21] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/15/2020] [Accepted: 11/27/2020] [Indexed: 02/07/2023] Open
Abstract
Current treatment options against hepatitis B and D virus (HBV/HDV) infections have only limited curative effects. Identification of Na+/taurocholate co-transporting polypeptide (NTCP) as the high-affinity hepatic receptor for both viruses in 2012 enables target-based development of HBV/HDV cell-entry inhibitors. Many studies already identified appropriate NTCP inhibitors. However, most of them interfere with NTCP’s physiological function as a hepatic bile acid transporter. To overcome this drawback, the present study aimed to find compounds that specifically block HBV/HDV binding to NTCP without affecting its transporter function. A novel assay was conceptualized to screen for both in parallel; virus binding to NTCP (measured via binding of a preS1-derived peptide of the large HBV/HDV envelope protein) and bile acid transport via NTCP. Hits were subsequently validated by in vitro HDV infection studies using NTCP-HepG2 cells. Derivatives of the birch-derived pentacyclic lupane-type triterpenoid betulin revealed clear NTCP inhibitory potency and selectivity for the virus receptor function of NTCP. Best performing compounds in both aspects were 2, 6, 19, and 25. In conclusion, betulin derivatives show clear structure–activity relationships for potent and selective inhibition of the HBV/HDV virus receptor function of NTCP without tackling its physiological bile acid transport function and therefore are promising drug candidates.
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Affiliation(s)
- Michael Kirstgen
- Biomedical Research Center Seltersberg (BFS), Institute of Pharmacology and Toxicology, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, Justus Liebig University Giessen, Schubertstr. 81, 35392, Giessen, Germany
| | - Kira Alessandra Alicia Theresa Lowjaga
- Biomedical Research Center Seltersberg (BFS), Institute of Pharmacology and Toxicology, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, Justus Liebig University Giessen, Schubertstr. 81, 35392, Giessen, Germany
| | - Simon Franz Müller
- Biomedical Research Center Seltersberg (BFS), Institute of Pharmacology and Toxicology, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, Justus Liebig University Giessen, Schubertstr. 81, 35392, Giessen, Germany
| | - Nora Goldmann
- National Reference Center for Hepatitis B Viruses and D Viruses, Institute of Medical Virology, Justus Liebig University Giessen, 35392, Giessen, Germany
| | - Felix Lehmann
- National Reference Center for Hepatitis B Viruses and D Viruses, Institute of Medical Virology, Justus Liebig University Giessen, 35392, Giessen, Germany
| | - Sami Alakurtti
- Drug Research Program, Division of Pharmaceutical Chemistry and Technology, Faculty of Pharmacy, University of Helsinki, Viikinkaari 5 E, P.O. Box 56, 00014, Helsinki, Finland.,VTT Technical Research Centre of Finland, Biologinkuja 7, P.O. Box 1000, 02044, Espoo, Finland
| | - Jari Yli-Kauhaluoma
- Drug Research Program, Division of Pharmaceutical Chemistry and Technology, Faculty of Pharmacy, University of Helsinki, Viikinkaari 5 E, P.O. Box 56, 00014, Helsinki, Finland
| | - Dieter Glebe
- National Reference Center for Hepatitis B Viruses and D Viruses, Institute of Medical Virology, Justus Liebig University Giessen, 35392, Giessen, Germany
| | - Joachim Geyer
- Biomedical Research Center Seltersberg (BFS), Institute of Pharmacology and Toxicology, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, Justus Liebig University Giessen, Schubertstr. 81, 35392, Giessen, Germany.
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Mäki-Opas I, Hämäläinen M, Moilanen LJ, Haavikko R, Ahonen TJ, Alakurtti S, Moreira VM, Muraki K, Yli-Kauhaluoma J, Moilanen E. Pyrazine-Fused Triterpenoids Block the TRPA1 Ion Channel in Vitro and Inhibit TRPA1-Mediated Acute Inflammation in Vivo. ACS Chem Neurosci 2019; 10:2848-2857. [PMID: 31034197 DOI: 10.1021/acschemneuro.9b00083] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/19/2022] Open
Abstract
TRPA1 is a nonselective cation channel, most famously expressed in nonmyelinated nociceptors. In addition to being an important chemical and mechanical pain sensor, TRPA1 has more recently appeared to have a role also in inflammation. Triterpenoids are natural products with anti-inflammatory and anticancer effects in experimental models. In this paper, 13 novel triterpenoids were created by synthetically modifying betulin, an abundant triterpenoid of the genus Betula L., and their TRPA1-modulating properties were examined. The Fluo 3-AM protocol was used in the initial screening, in which six of the 14 tested triterpenoids inhibited TRPA1 in a statistically significant manner. In subsequent whole-cell patch clamp recordings, the two most effective compounds (pyrazine-fused triterpenoids 8 and 9) displayed a reversible and dose- and voltage-dependent effect to block the TRPA1 ion channel at submicromolar concentrations. Interestingly, the TRPA1 blocking action was also evident in vivo, as compounds 8 and 9 both alleviated TRPA1 agonist-induced acute paw inflammation in mice. The results introduce betulin-derived pyrazine-fused triterpenoids as promising novel antagonists of TRPA1 that are potentially useful in treating diseases with a TRPA1-mediated adverse component.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ilari Mäki-Opas
- The Immunopharmacology Research Group, Faculty of Medicine and Health Technology, Tampere University and Tampere University Hospital, 33014 Tampere, Finland
| | - Mari Hämäläinen
- The Immunopharmacology Research Group, Faculty of Medicine and Health Technology, Tampere University and Tampere University Hospital, 33014 Tampere, Finland
| | - Lauri J. Moilanen
- The Immunopharmacology Research Group, Faculty of Medicine and Health Technology, Tampere University and Tampere University Hospital, 33014 Tampere, Finland
| | - Raisa Haavikko
- Drug Research Program, Division of Pharmaceutical Chemistry and Technology, Faculty of Pharmacy, University of Helsinki, 00014 Helsinki, Finland
| | - Tiina J. Ahonen
- Drug Research Program, Division of Pharmaceutical Chemistry and Technology, Faculty of Pharmacy, University of Helsinki, 00014 Helsinki, Finland
| | - Sami Alakurtti
- Drug Research Program, Division of Pharmaceutical Chemistry and Technology, Faculty of Pharmacy, University of Helsinki, 00014 Helsinki, Finland
- VTT Technical Research Centre of Finland Ltd., 02044 Espoo, Finland
| | - Vânia M. Moreira
- Drug Research Program, Division of Pharmaceutical Chemistry and Technology, Faculty of Pharmacy, University of Helsinki, 00014 Helsinki, Finland
- Strathclyde Institute of Pharmacy and Biomedical Sciences, University of Strathclyde, Glasgow G4 0RE, U.K
| | - Katsuhiko Muraki
- Laboratory of Cellular Pharmacology, School of Pharmacy, Aichi Gakuin University, Nagoya 464-8650, Japan
| | - Jari Yli-Kauhaluoma
- Drug Research Program, Division of Pharmaceutical Chemistry and Technology, Faculty of Pharmacy, University of Helsinki, 00014 Helsinki, Finland
| | - Eeva Moilanen
- The Immunopharmacology Research Group, Faculty of Medicine and Health Technology, Tampere University and Tampere University Hospital, 33014 Tampere, Finland
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Häkkinen ST, Nygren H, Maiorova N, Haavikko R, Alakurtti S, Yli-Kauhaluoma J, Rischer H, Oksman-Caldentey KM. Biotransformation of Cyclodextrine-Complexed Semisynthetic Betulin Derivatives by Plant Cells. Planta Med 2018; 84:743-748. [PMID: 29518814 DOI: 10.1055/a-0585-6081] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/17/2023]
Abstract
In this study, three semisynthetic betulonic acid-based compounds, 20(29)-dihydrolup-2-en[2,3-d]isoxazol-28-oic acid, 1-betulonoylpyrrolidine, and lupa-2,20(29)-dieno[2,3-b]pyrazin-28-oic acid, were studied in biotransformation experiments using Nicotiana tabacum and Catharanthus roseus cell suspension cultures. Biotransformation was performed using cyclodextrin to aid dissolving poorly water-soluble substrates. Several new derivatives were found, consisting of oxidized and glycosylated (pentose- and hexose-conjugated) products.
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Affiliation(s)
- Suvi T Häkkinen
- VTT Technical Research Centre of Finland Ltd., Espoo, Finland
| | - Heli Nygren
- VTT Technical Research Centre of Finland Ltd., Espoo, Finland
| | | | - Raisa Haavikko
- University of Helsinki, Drug Research Program, Division of Pharmaceutical Chemistry and Technology, Helsinki, Finland
| | - Sami Alakurtti
- VTT Technical Research Centre of Finland Ltd., Espoo, Finland
| | - Jari Yli-Kauhaluoma
- University of Helsinki, Drug Research Program, Division of Pharmaceutical Chemistry and Technology, Helsinki, Finland
| | - Heiko Rischer
- VTT Technical Research Centre of Finland Ltd., Espoo, Finland
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Heinämäki J, Pirttimaa MM, Alakurtti S, Pitkänen HP, Kanerva H, Hulkko J, Paaver U, Aruväli J, Yliruusi J, Kogermann K. Suberin Fatty Acids from Outer Birch Bark: Isolation and Physical Material Characterization. J Nat Prod 2017; 80:916-924. [PMID: 28333461 DOI: 10.1021/acs.jnatprod.6b00771] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 06/06/2023]
Abstract
The isolation and physical material properties of suberin fatty acids (SFAs) were investigated with special reference to their potential applications as novel pharmaceutical excipients. SFAs were isolated from outer birch bark (OBB) with a new extractive hydrolysis method. The present simplified isolation process resulted in a moderate batch yield and chemical purity of SFAs, but further development is needed for establishing batch-to-batch variation. Cryogenic milling was the method of choice for the particle size reduction of SFAs powder. The cryogenically milled SFAs powder exhibited a semicrystalline structure with apparent microcrystalline domains within an amorphous fatty acids matrix. The thermogravimetric analysis (TGA) of SFAs samples showed a good thermal stability up to 200 °C, followed by a progressive weight loss, reaching a plateau at about 95% volatilization at about 470 °C. The binary blends of SFAs and microcrystalline cellulose (MCC; Avicel PH 101) in a ratio of 25:75 (w/w) displayed good powder flow and tablet compression properties. The corresponding theophylline-containing tablets showed sustained or prolonged-release characteristics. The physicochemical and bulk powder properties of SFAs isolated from OBB are auspicious in terms of potential pharmaceutical excipient applications.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jyrki Heinämäki
- Institute of Pharmacy, Faculty of Medicine, University of Tartu , Nooruse 1, 50411 Tartu, Estonia
| | - Minni M Pirttimaa
- VTT Technical Research Centre Finland Ltd , VTT Industrial Synthesis, Biologinkuja 7, Espoo, P.O. Box 1000, FI-02044 VTT, Finland
| | - Sami Alakurtti
- VTT Technical Research Centre Finland Ltd , VTT Industrial Synthesis, Biologinkuja 7, Espoo, P.O. Box 1000, FI-02044 VTT, Finland
| | - H Pauliina Pitkänen
- VTT Technical Research Centre Finland Ltd , VTT Industrial Synthesis, Biologinkuja 7, Espoo, P.O. Box 1000, FI-02044 VTT, Finland
| | - Heimo Kanerva
- VTT Technical Research Centre Finland Ltd , VTT Industrial Synthesis, Biologinkuja 7, Espoo, P.O. Box 1000, FI-02044 VTT, Finland
| | - Janne Hulkko
- VTT Technical Research Centre Finland Ltd , VTT Industrial Synthesis, Biologinkuja 7, Espoo, P.O. Box 1000, FI-02044 VTT, Finland
| | - Urve Paaver
- Institute of Pharmacy, Faculty of Medicine, University of Tartu , Nooruse 1, 50411 Tartu, Estonia
| | - Jaan Aruväli
- Department of Geology, Institute of Ecology and Earth Sciences, University of Tartu , Ravila 14a, 50411 Tartu, Estonia
| | - Jouko Yliruusi
- Division of Pharmaceutical Chemistry and Technology , Faculty of Pharmacy, P.O. Box 56 (Viikinkaari 5E), FI-00014 University of Helsinki, Finland
| | - Karin Kogermann
- Institute of Pharmacy, Faculty of Medicine, University of Tartu , Nooruse 1, 50411 Tartu, Estonia
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Pirttimaa M, Nasereddin A, Kopelyanskiy D, Kaiser M, Yli-Kauhaluoma J, Oksman-Caldentey KM, Brun R, Jaffe CL, Moreira VM, Alakurtti S. Abietane-Type Diterpenoid Amides with Highly Potent and Selective Activity against Leishmania donovani and Trypanosoma cruzi. J Nat Prod 2016; 79:362-368. [PMID: 26849852 DOI: 10.1021/acs.jnatprod.5b00990] [Citation(s) in RCA: 15] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 06/05/2023]
Abstract
Dehydroabietylamine (1) was used as a starting material to synthesize a small library of dehydroabietyl amides by simple and facile methods, and their activities against two disease-causing trypanosomatids, namely, Leishmania donovani and Trypanosoma cruzi, were assayed. The most potent compound, 10, an amide of dehydroabietylamine and acrylic acid, was found to be highly potent against these parasites, displaying an IC50 value of 0.37 μM against L. donovani axenic amastigotes and an outstanding selectivity index of 63. Moreover, compound 10 fully inhibited the growth of intracellular amastigotes in Leishmania donovani-infected human macrophages with a low IC50 value of 0.06 μM. This compound was also highly effective against T. cruzi amastigotes residing in L6 cells with an IC50 value of 0.6 μM and high selectivity index of 58, being 3.5 times more potent than the reference compound benznidazole. The potent activity of this compound and its relatively low cytotoxicity make it attractive for further development in pursuit of better drugs for patients suffering from leishmaniasis and Chagas disease.
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Affiliation(s)
- Minni Pirttimaa
- VTT Technical Research Centre of Finland Ltd, VTT , P.O. Box 1000, FI-02044 VTT Espoo, Finland
| | - Abedelmajeed Nasereddin
- Department of Microbiology and Molecular Genetics, IMRIC, P.O. Box 12272, Hebrew University-Hadassah Medical School , 9112102 Jerusalem, Israel
| | - Dmitry Kopelyanskiy
- Department of Microbiology and Molecular Genetics, IMRIC, P.O. Box 12272, Hebrew University-Hadassah Medical School , 9112102 Jerusalem, Israel
| | - Marcel Kaiser
- Department of Medical Parasitology and Infection Biology, Swiss Tropical and Public Health Institute , Socinstrasse 57, 4051 Basel, Switzerland
| | - Jari Yli-Kauhaluoma
- Faculty of Pharmacy, Division of Pharmaceutical Chemistry and Technology, University of Helsinki , Viikinkaari 5 E (P.O. Box 56), FI-00014, Helsinki, Finland
| | | | - Reto Brun
- Department of Medical Parasitology and Infection Biology, Swiss Tropical and Public Health Institute , Socinstrasse 57, 4051 Basel, Switzerland
| | - Charles L Jaffe
- Department of Microbiology and Molecular Genetics, IMRIC, P.O. Box 12272, Hebrew University-Hadassah Medical School , 9112102 Jerusalem, Israel
| | - Vânia M Moreira
- Faculty of Pharmacy, Division of Pharmaceutical Chemistry and Technology, University of Helsinki , Viikinkaari 5 E (P.O. Box 56), FI-00014, Helsinki, Finland
| | - Sami Alakurtti
- VTT Technical Research Centre of Finland Ltd, VTT , P.O. Box 1000, FI-02044 VTT Espoo, Finland
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Laavola M, Haavikko R, Hämäläinen M, Leppänen T, Nieminen R, Alakurtti S, Moreira VM, Yli-Kauhaluoma J, Moilanen E. Betulin Derivatives Effectively Suppress Inflammation in Vitro and in Vivo. J Nat Prod 2016; 79:274-280. [PMID: 26915998 DOI: 10.1021/acs.jnatprod.5b00709] [Citation(s) in RCA: 46] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 06/05/2023]
Abstract
Betulin is a pharmacologically active triterpenoid found in the bark of the birch tree (Betula sp. L.). Betulin and betulinic acid are structurally related to anti-inflammatory steroids, but little is known about their potential anti-inflammatory properties. In the present study, the inflammatory gene expression and the anti-inflammatory properties of betulin, betulinic acid, and 16 semisynthetic betulin derivatives were investigated. Betulin derivatives 3, 4, and 5 selectively inhibited the expression of the inducible nitric oxide synthase (iNOS) in a post-transcriptional manner. They also inhibited nitric oxide (NO) production but had no effect on the other inflammatory factors studied. More interestingly, a new anti-inflammatory betulin derivative 9 with a wide-spectrum anti-inflammatory activity was discovered. Compound 9 was found to suppress the expression of cytokines interleukin-6 (IL-6) and monocyte chemotactic protein-1 (MCP-1), as well as that of prostaglandin synthase-2 (COX-2) in addition to iNOS. The in vivo anti-inflammatory effect of compound 9 was indicated via significant suppression of the carrageenan-induced paw inflammation in mice. The results show, for the first time, that the pyrazole-fused betulin derivative (9) and related compounds have anti-inflammatory properties that could be utilized in drug development.
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Affiliation(s)
- Mirka Laavola
- The Immunopharmacology Research Group, University of Tampere School of Medicine and Tampere University Hospital , FI-33014 Tampere, Finland
| | - Raisa Haavikko
- Division of Pharmaceutical Chemistry and Technology, Faculty of Pharmacy, University of Helsinki , FI-00014 Helsinki, Finland
| | - Mari Hämäläinen
- The Immunopharmacology Research Group, University of Tampere School of Medicine and Tampere University Hospital , FI-33014 Tampere, Finland
| | - Tiina Leppänen
- The Immunopharmacology Research Group, University of Tampere School of Medicine and Tampere University Hospital , FI-33014 Tampere, Finland
| | - Riina Nieminen
- The Immunopharmacology Research Group, University of Tampere School of Medicine and Tampere University Hospital , FI-33014 Tampere, Finland
| | - Sami Alakurtti
- Process Chemistry and Environmental Engineering, VTT Technical Research Centre of Finland , FI-02044 Espoo, Finland
| | - Vânia M Moreira
- Division of Pharmaceutical Chemistry and Technology, Faculty of Pharmacy, University of Helsinki , FI-00014 Helsinki, Finland
| | - Jari Yli-Kauhaluoma
- Division of Pharmaceutical Chemistry and Technology, Faculty of Pharmacy, University of Helsinki , FI-00014 Helsinki, Finland
| | - Eeva Moilanen
- The Immunopharmacology Research Group, University of Tampere School of Medicine and Tampere University Hospital , FI-33014 Tampere, Finland
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Tamm I, Heinämäki J, Laidmäe I, Rammo L, Paaver U, Ingebrigtsen SG, Škalko-Basnet N, Halenius A, Yliruusi J, Pitkänen P, Alakurtti S, Kogermann K. Development of Suberin Fatty Acids and Chloramphenicol-Loaded Antimicrobial Electrospun Nanofibrous Mats Intended for Wound Therapy. J Pharm Sci 2016; 105:1239-47. [PMID: 26886306 DOI: 10.1016/j.xphs.2015.12.025] [Citation(s) in RCA: 12] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/27/2015] [Revised: 12/09/2015] [Accepted: 12/23/2015] [Indexed: 12/12/2022]
Abstract
Suberin fatty acids (SFAs) isolated from outer birch bark were investigated as an antimicrobial agent and biomaterial in nanofibrous mats intended for wound treatment. Electrospinning (ES) was used in preparing the composite nonwoven nanomats containing chloramphenicol (CAM; as a primary antimicrobial drug), SFAs, and polyvinylpyrrolidone (as a carrier polymer for ES). The X-ray powder diffraction, differential scanning calorimetry, scanning electron microscopy, atomic force microscopy, and texture analysis were used for the physicochemical and mechanical characterization of the nanomats. ES produced nanofibrous mats with uniform structure and with an average fiber diameter ranging from 370 to 425 nm. Microcrystalline SFAs and crystalline CAM were found to undergo a solid-state transformation during ES processing. The ES process caused also the loss of CAM in the final nanofibers. In the texture analysis, the SFAs containing nanofibers exhibited significantly higher maximum detachment force to an isolated pig skin (p < 0.05) than that obtained with the reference nanofibers. CAM exists in an amorphous form in the nanofibers which needs to be taken into account in controlling the physical storage stability. In conclusion, homogeneous composite nanofibrous mats for wound healing can be electrospun from the ternary mixture(s) of CAM, SFAs, and polyvinylpyrrolidone.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ingrid Tamm
- Institute of Pharmacy, Faculty of Medicine, University of Tartu, 50411 Tartu, Estonia
| | - Jyrki Heinämäki
- Institute of Pharmacy, Faculty of Medicine, University of Tartu, 50411 Tartu, Estonia
| | - Ivo Laidmäe
- Institute of Pharmacy, Faculty of Medicine, University of Tartu, 50411 Tartu, Estonia; Department of Immunology, Institute of Biomedicine and Translational Medicine, Faculty of Medicine, University of Tartu, 50411 Tartu, Estonia
| | - Liisi Rammo
- Institute of Pharmacy, Faculty of Medicine, University of Tartu, 50411 Tartu, Estonia
| | - Urve Paaver
- Institute of Pharmacy, Faculty of Medicine, University of Tartu, 50411 Tartu, Estonia
| | - Sveinung G Ingebrigtsen
- Drug Transport and Delivery Research Group, Department of Pharmacy, Faculty of Health Sciences, University of Tromsø The Arctic University of Norway, 9037 Tromsø, Norway
| | - Nataša Škalko-Basnet
- Drug Transport and Delivery Research Group, Department of Pharmacy, Faculty of Health Sciences, University of Tromsø The Arctic University of Norway, 9037 Tromsø, Norway
| | - Anna Halenius
- Department of Pharmaceutical Chemistry and Technology, Faculty of Pharmacy, University of Helsinki, Helsinki, Finland
| | - Jouko Yliruusi
- Department of Pharmaceutical Chemistry and Technology, Faculty of Pharmacy, University of Helsinki, Helsinki, Finland
| | | | - Sami Alakurtti
- VTT Technical Research Centre Finland Ltd, FI-02044 Espoo, Finland
| | - Karin Kogermann
- Institute of Pharmacy, Faculty of Medicine, University of Tartu, 50411 Tartu, Estonia; Institute of Technology, Faculty of Science and Technology, University of Tartu, 50411 Tartu, Estonia.
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Heinämäki J, Halenius A, Paavo M, Alakurtti S, Pitkänen P, Pirttimaa M, Paaver U, Kirsimäe K, Kogermann K, Yliruusi J. Suberin fatty acids isolated from outer birch bark improve moisture barrier properties of cellulose ether films intended for tablet coatings. Int J Pharm 2015; 489:91-9. [DOI: 10.1016/j.ijpharm.2015.04.066] [Citation(s) in RCA: 16] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/09/2015] [Revised: 04/22/2015] [Accepted: 04/24/2015] [Indexed: 11/26/2022]
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Alcazar W, López AS, Alakurtti S, Tuononen ML, Yli-Kauhaluoma J, Ponte-Sucre A. Betulin derivatives impair Leishmania braziliensis viability and host–parasite interaction. Bioorg Med Chem 2014; 22:6220-6. [DOI: 10.1016/j.bmc.2014.08.023] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/25/2014] [Revised: 08/12/2014] [Accepted: 08/20/2014] [Indexed: 10/24/2022]
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Haque S, Nawrot DA, Alakurtti S, Ghemtio L, Yli-Kauhaluoma J, Tammela P. Screening and characterisation of antimicrobial properties of semisynthetic betulin derivatives. PLoS One 2014; 9:e102696. [PMID: 25032708 PMCID: PMC4102551 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pone.0102696] [Citation(s) in RCA: 42] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/10/2013] [Accepted: 06/23/2014] [Indexed: 11/19/2022] Open
Abstract
Betulin (lup-20(29)-ene-3β, 28-diol) is a naturally occurring triterpene, which is found in substantial amounts from the outer bark of birch trees. A library of 51 structurally diverse semisynthetic betulin derivatives was screened against five bacterial strains, Enterobacter aerogenes, Escherichia coli, Enterococcus faecalis, Pseudomonas aeruginosa, Staphylococcus aureus and a fungal strain Candida albicans, using broth microdilution assays. Primary antimicrobial screening at 50 µM concentration led to the identification of five compounds showing antimicrobial properties (inhibition of growth by >70% against one or more microbial strains). According to the dose-response results, 28-O-(N-acetylanthraniloyl)betulin (compound 5) was the most active, showing MIC90 of 6.25 µM against two Gram-positive bacteria, E. faecalis and S. aureus. However, the activity of this compound was affected by albumin binding, which was demonstrated by the loss of activity in a host-pathogen co-culture assay as well as in the antibacterial assay in the presence of increased concentration of albumin. Furthermore, the effects on mammalian cells were evaluated by cytotoxicity assessment on hepatocyte cell culture after 24 h exposure to the compounds. Betulinic aldehyde (18), betulin-28-oxime (31) and hetero cycloadduct with acetoxy groups at carbon atoms 3 and 28 and ethyl substituent at the triazolo ring (43) displayed cytotoxicity towards hepatocytes, with IC50 values of 47, 25 and 16 µM, respectively. The IC50 value for 28-O-(N-acetylanthraniloyl)betulin (5) was 56 µM. The current study presents an insight into using betulin scaffold for developing derivatives with antibacterial potential, and furthermore the necessity of in-depth analysis of found actives through selectivity profiling and follow-up studies including in silico ADMET predictions.
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Affiliation(s)
- Shafiul Haque
- Centre for Drug Research (CDR), Faculty of Pharmacy, University of Helsinki, Helsinki, Finland
| | - Dorota A. Nawrot
- Centre for Drug Research (CDR), Faculty of Pharmacy, University of Helsinki, Helsinki, Finland
| | - Sami Alakurtti
- Division of Pharmaceutical Chemistry, Faculty of Pharmacy, University of Helsinki, Helsinki, Finland
- VTT Technical Research Centre of Finland, Espoo, Finland
| | - Leo Ghemtio
- Centre for Drug Research (CDR), Faculty of Pharmacy, University of Helsinki, Helsinki, Finland
| | - Jari Yli-Kauhaluoma
- Division of Pharmaceutical Chemistry, Faculty of Pharmacy, University of Helsinki, Helsinki, Finland
| | - Päivi Tammela
- Centre for Drug Research (CDR), Faculty of Pharmacy, University of Helsinki, Helsinki, Finland
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Niemi T, Perea-Buceta JE, Fernández I, Alakurtti S, Rantala E, Repo T. Direct Assembly of 2-Oxazolidinones by Chemical Fixation of Carbon Dioxide. Chemistry 2014; 20:8867-71. [DOI: 10.1002/chem.201402368] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/26/2014] [Indexed: 11/10/2022]
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14
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Parkkari T, Haavikko R, Laitinen T, Navia-Paldanius D, Rytilahti R, Vaara M, Lehtonen M, Alakurtti S, Yli-Kauhaluoma J, Nevalainen T, Savinainen JR, Laitinen JT. Discovery of triterpenoids as reversible inhibitors of α/β-hydrolase domain containing 12 (ABHD12). PLoS One 2014; 9:e98286. [PMID: 24879289 PMCID: PMC4045134 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pone.0098286] [Citation(s) in RCA: 22] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/06/2014] [Accepted: 04/30/2014] [Indexed: 01/01/2023] Open
Abstract
Background α/β-hydrolase domain containing (ABHD)12 is a recently discovered serine hydrolase that acts in vivo as a lysophospholipase for lysophosphatidylserine. Dysfunctional ABHD12 has been linked to the rare neurodegenerative disorder called PHARC (polyneuropathy, hearing loss, ataxia, retinosis pigmentosa, cataract). In vitro, ABHD12 has been implicated in the metabolism of the endocannabinoid 2-arachidonoylglycerol (2-AG). Further studies on ABHD12 function are hampered as no selective inhibitor have been identified to date. In contrast to the situation with the other endocannabinoid hydrolases, ABHD12 has remained a challenging target for inhibitor development as no crystal structures are available to facilitate drug design. Methodology/Principal Findings Here we report the unexpected discovery that certain triterpene-based structures inhibit human ABHD12 hydrolase activity in a reversible manner, the best compounds showing submicromolar potency. Based on structure activity relationship (SAR) data collected for 68 natural and synthetic triterpenoid structures, a pharmacophore model has been constructed. A pentacyclic triterpene backbone with carboxyl group at position 17, small hydrophobic substituent at the position 4, hydrogen bond donor or acceptor at position 3 accompanied with four axial methyl substituents was found crucial for ABHD12 inhibitor activity. Although the triterpenoids typically may have multiple protein targets, we witnessed unprecedented selectivity for ABHD12 among the metabolic serine hydrolases, as activity-based protein profiling of mouse brain membrane proteome indicated that the representative ABHD12 inhibitors did not inhibit other serine hydrolases, nor did they target cannabinoid receptors. Conclusions/Significance We have identified reversibly-acting triterpene-based inhibitors that show remarkable selectivity for ABHD12 over other metabolic serine hydrolases. Based on SAR data, we have constructed the first pharmacophore model of ABHD12 inhibitors. This model should pave the way for further discovery of novel lead structures for ABHD12 selective inhibitors.
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Affiliation(s)
- Teija Parkkari
- School of Medicine, Institute of Biomedicine, University of Eastern Finland, Kuopio, Finland
- School of Pharmacy, Faculty of Health Sciences, University of Eastern Finland, Kuopio, Finland
| | - Raisa Haavikko
- Division of Pharmaceutical Chemistry and Technology, Faculty of Pharmacy, University of Helsinki, Helsinki, Finland
| | - Tuomo Laitinen
- School of Pharmacy, Faculty of Health Sciences, University of Eastern Finland, Kuopio, Finland
| | - Dina Navia-Paldanius
- School of Medicine, Institute of Biomedicine, University of Eastern Finland, Kuopio, Finland
| | - Roosa Rytilahti
- School of Medicine, Institute of Biomedicine, University of Eastern Finland, Kuopio, Finland
| | - Miia Vaara
- School of Medicine, Institute of Biomedicine, University of Eastern Finland, Kuopio, Finland
| | - Marko Lehtonen
- School of Pharmacy, Faculty of Health Sciences, University of Eastern Finland, Kuopio, Finland
| | - Sami Alakurtti
- Division of Pharmaceutical Chemistry and Technology, Faculty of Pharmacy, University of Helsinki, Helsinki, Finland
- VTT Technical Research Centre of Finland, Helsinki, Finland
| | - Jari Yli-Kauhaluoma
- Division of Pharmaceutical Chemistry and Technology, Faculty of Pharmacy, University of Helsinki, Helsinki, Finland
| | - Tapio Nevalainen
- School of Pharmacy, Faculty of Health Sciences, University of Eastern Finland, Kuopio, Finland
| | - Juha R. Savinainen
- School of Medicine, Institute of Biomedicine, University of Eastern Finland, Kuopio, Finland
| | - Jarmo T. Laitinen
- School of Medicine, Institute of Biomedicine, University of Eastern Finland, Kuopio, Finland
- * E-mail:
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15
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Haavikko R, Nasereddin A, Sacerdoti-Sierra N, Kopelyanskiy D, Alakurtti S, Tikka M, Jaffe CL, Yli-Kauhaluoma J. Heterocycle-fused lupane triterpenoids inhibit Leishmania donovani amastigotes. Med Chem Commun 2014. [DOI: 10.1039/c3md00282a] [Citation(s) in RCA: 42] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/09/2023]
Abstract
The synthesis of heterocyclic betulin derivatives and their activity against Leishmania donovani are reported.
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Affiliation(s)
- Raisa Haavikko
- Faculty of Pharmacy
- Division of Pharmaceutical Chemistry
- University of Helsinki
- Helsinki, Finland
| | - Abedelmajeed Nasereddin
- Department of Microbiology and Molecular Genetics
- IMRIC
- Hebrew University-Hadassah Medical School
- Jerusalem 91120, Israel
| | - Nina Sacerdoti-Sierra
- Department of Microbiology and Molecular Genetics
- IMRIC
- Hebrew University-Hadassah Medical School
- Jerusalem 91120, Israel
| | - Dmitry Kopelyanskiy
- Department of Microbiology and Molecular Genetics
- IMRIC
- Hebrew University-Hadassah Medical School
- Jerusalem 91120, Israel
| | | | - Mari Tikka
- Faculty of Pharmacy
- Division of Pharmaceutical Chemistry
- University of Helsinki
- Helsinki, Finland
| | - Charles L. Jaffe
- Department of Microbiology and Molecular Genetics
- IMRIC
- Hebrew University-Hadassah Medical School
- Jerusalem 91120, Israel
| | - Jari Yli-Kauhaluoma
- Faculty of Pharmacy
- Division of Pharmaceutical Chemistry
- University of Helsinki
- Helsinki, Finland
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16
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Wert L, Alakurtti S, Corral MJ, Sánchez-Fortún S, Yli-Kauhaluoma J, Alunda JM. Toxicity of betulin derivatives and in vitro effect on promastigotes and amastigotes of Leishmania infantum and L. donovani. J Antibiot (Tokyo) 2011; 64:475-81. [DOI: 10.1038/ja.2011.34] [Citation(s) in RCA: 18] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/09/2022]
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Šilhár P, Alakurtti S, Čapková K, Xiaochuan F, Shoemaker CB, Yli-Kauhaluoma J, Janda KD. Synthesis and evaluation of library of betulin derivatives against the botulinum neurotoxin A protease. Bioorg Med Chem Lett 2011; 21:2229-31. [PMID: 21421315 DOI: 10.1016/j.bmcl.2011.02.115] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/20/2011] [Revised: 02/25/2011] [Accepted: 02/28/2011] [Indexed: 10/18/2022]
Abstract
Botulinum neurotoxins (BoNTs) are the most toxic proteins currently known. Current treatments for botulinum poisoning are all protein based with a limited window of opportunity. Inhibition of the BoNT light chain protease (LC) has emerged as a new therapeutic strategy for the treatment of botulism as it may provide an effective post-exposure remedy. As such, a small library of 40 betulin derivatives was synthesized and screened against the light chain of BoNT serotype A (LC/A); five positive hits (IC(50) <100 μM) were uncovered. Detailed evaluation of inhibition mechanism of three most active compounds revealed a competitive model, with sub-micromolar K(i) value for the best inhibitor (7). Unfortunately, an in vitro cell-based assay did not show any protection of rat cerebellar neurons against BoNT/A intoxication by 7.
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Affiliation(s)
- Peter Šilhár
- Department of Chemistry, Scripps Research Institute, 10550 North Torrey Pines Rd., La Jolla, CA 92037, USA
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18
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Alakurtti S, Bergström P, Sacerdoti-Sierra N, Jaffe CL, Yli-Kauhaluoma J. Anti-leishmanial activity of betulin derivatives. J Antibiot (Tokyo) 2010; 63:123-6. [DOI: 10.1038/ja.2010.2] [Citation(s) in RCA: 26] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/09/2022]
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19
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Pohjala L, Alakurtti S, Ahola T, Yli-Kauhaluoma J, Tammela P. Betulin-derived compounds as inhibitors of alphavirus replication. J Nat Prod 2009; 72:1917-1926. [PMID: 19839605 DOI: 10.1021/np9003245] [Citation(s) in RCA: 68] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 05/28/2023]
Abstract
This paper describes inhibition of Semliki Forest virus (SFV) replication by synthetic derivatives of naturally occurring triterpenoid betulin (1). Chemical modifications were made to OH groups at C-3 and C-28 and to the C-20-C-29 double bond. A set of heterocyclic betulin derivatives was also assayed. A free or acetylated OH group at C-3 was identified as an important structural contributor for anti-SFV activity, 3,28-di-O-acetylbetulin (4) being the most potent derivative (IC50 value 9.1 microM). Betulinic acid (13), 28-O-tetrahydropyranylbetulin (17), and a triazolidine derivative (41) were also shown to inhibit Sindbis virus, with IC50 values of 0.5, 1.9, and 6.1 microM, respectively. The latter three compounds also had significant synergistic effects against SFV when combined with 3'-amino-3'-deoxyadenosine. In contrast to previous work on other viruses, the antiviral activity of 13 was mapped to take place in virus replication phase. The efficacy was also shown to be independent of external guanosine supplementation.
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Affiliation(s)
- Leena Pohjala
- Centre for Drug Research, Faculty of Pharmacy, P.O. Box 56, FI-00014 University of Helsinki, Finland
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Pohjala L, Alakurtti S, Yli-Kauhaluoma J, Ahola T, Tammela P. Betulin derivatives inhibit Alphavirus replication. Eur J Pharm Sci 2008. [DOI: 10.1016/j.ejps.2008.02.116] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/29/2022]
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Itäaho K, Alakurtti S, Yli-Kauhaluoma J, Taskinen J, Coughtrie MWH, Kostiainen R. Regioselective sulfonation of dopamine by SULT1A3 in vitro provides a molecular explanation for the preponderance of dopamine-3-O-sulfate in human blood circulation. Biochem Pharmacol 2007; 74:504-10. [PMID: 17548063 DOI: 10.1016/j.bcp.2007.05.003] [Citation(s) in RCA: 17] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/06/2007] [Revised: 04/28/2007] [Accepted: 05/03/2007] [Indexed: 11/29/2022]
Abstract
SULT1A3 is an enzyme that catalyzes the sulfonation of many endogenous and exogenous phenols and catechols. The most important endogenous substrate is dopamine (DA), which is often used as a probe substrate for SULT1A3. We developed a new method for analyzing the SULT1A3 reaction products by high-performance liquid chromatography (HPLC) with electrochemical detection. The sulfonate donor 3'-phosphoadenosine-5'-phosphosulfate (PAPS), DA and the two dopamine sulfates, DA-3-O-sulfate and DA-4-O-sulfate, can be separated within 3 min. This enables quantitation of the sulfates without radioactive PAPS or the precipitation of unreacted PAPS. Both sulfates were synthesized as reference substances and characterized by (1)H and (13)C nuclear magnetic resonance (NMR), mass spectrometry (MS) and tandem mass spectrometry (MS/MS). The purity of the dopamine sulfates was estimated by HPLC using a diode array detector. We determined the enzyme kinetic parameters for formation of DA-3-O-sulfate and DA-4-O-sulfate using purified recombinant human SULT1A3. The reactions followed Michaelis-Menten kinetics up to 50 microM DA concentration, and strong substrate inhibition was observed at higher concentrations. The apparent K(m) values for sulfonation at both hydroxy groups were similar (2.21+/-0.764 and 2.59+/-1.06 microM for DA-4-O-sulfate and DA-3-O-sulfate, respectively), but the V(max) was approximately six times higher for the formation of the 3-O-sulfate (344+/-139 nmol/min/mg protein) than the 4-O-sulfate (45.4+/-16.5 nmol/min/mg protein). These results are in accordance with the observation that DA-3-O-sulfate is more abundant in human blood than DA-4-O-sulfate and that in the crystal structure of SULT1A3 with dopamine bound to the active site, the 3-hydroxy group is aligned to form hydrogen bonds with catalytic residues of the enzyme.
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Affiliation(s)
- Katriina Itäaho
- Division of Pharmaceutical Chemistry, Faculty of Pharmacy, University of Helsinki, PO Box 56 (Viikinkaari 5 E), FIN-00014 Helsinki, Finland
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Alakurtti S, Mäkelä T, Koskimies S, Yli-Kauhaluoma J. Pharmacological properties of the ubiquitous natural product betulin. Eur J Pharm Sci 2006; 29:1-13. [PMID: 16716572 DOI: 10.1016/j.ejps.2006.04.006] [Citation(s) in RCA: 412] [Impact Index Per Article: 22.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/12/2005] [Revised: 03/28/2006] [Accepted: 04/15/2006] [Indexed: 12/22/2022]
Abstract
Betulin (lup-20(29)-ene-3beta,28-diol) is an abundant naturally occurring triterpene and it is found predominantly in bushes and trees forming the principal extractive (up to 30% of dry weight) of the bark of birch trees. Presently, there is no significant use for this easily isolable compound, which makes it a potentially important raw material for polymers and a precursor of biologically active compounds. Betulin can be easily converted to betulinic acid, which possesses a wide spectrum of biological and pharmacological activities. Betulinic acid has antimalarial and anti-inflammatory activities. Betulinic acid and its derivatives have especially shown anti-HIV activity and cytotoxicity against a variety of tumor cell lines comparable to some clinically used drugs. A new mechanism of action has been confirmed for some of the most promising anti-HIV derivatives, which makes them potentially useful additives to the current anti-HIV therapy. Betulinic acid is specifically cytotoxic to several tumor cell lines by inducing apoptosis in cells. Moreover, it is non-toxic up to 500 mg/kg body weight in mice. The literature concerning derivatization of betulin for structure-activity relationship (SAR) studies and its pharmacological properties is reviewed.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sami Alakurtti
- Faculty of Pharmacy, Division of Pharmaceutical Chemistry, University of Helsinki, Helsinki, Finland
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Selkälä SA, Alakurtti S, Koskinen AM. Hydrogenation of 4-deoxy-β-l-threo-hex-4-enopyranosyluronic acid sodium salt attached to xylodiose or xylotriose. Tetrahedron Lett 2001. [DOI: 10.1016/s0040-4039(01)00398-7] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/30/2022]
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