NO and CO differentially activate soluble guanylyl cyclase via a heme pivot-bend mechanism

Diatomic ligand discrimination by soluble guanylyl cyclase (sGC) is paramount to cardiovascular homeostasis and neuronal signaling. Nitric oxide (NO) stimulates sGC activity 200-fold compared with only four-fold by carbon monoxide (CO). The molecular details of ligand discrimination and differential response to NO and CO are not well understood. These ligands are sensed by the heme domain of sGC, which belongs to the heme nitric oxide oxygen (H-NOX) domain family, also evolutionarily conserved in prokaryotes. Here we report crystal structures of the free, NO-bound, and CO-bound H-NOX domains of a cyanobacterial homolog. These structures and complementary mutational analysis in sGC reveal a molecular ruler mechanism that allows sGC to favor NO over CO while excluding oxygen, concomitant to signaling that exploits differential heme pivoting and heme bending. The heme thereby serves as a flexing wedge, allowing the N-terminal subdomain of H-NOX to shift concurrent with the transition of the six- to five-coordinated NO-bound state upon sGC activation. This transition can be modulated by mutations at sGC residues 74 and 145 and corresponding residues in the cyanobacterial H-NOX homolog.

Desensitization of soluble guanylyl cyclase, the NO receptor, by S-nitrosylation

The molecular mechanism of desensitization of soluble guanylyl cyclase (sGC), the NO receptor, has long remained unresolved. Posttranslational modification and redox state have been postulated to affect sGC sensitivity to NO but evidence has been lacking. We now show that sGC can be S-nitrosylated in primary aortic smooth muscle cells by S-nitrosocysteine (CSNO), an S-nitrosylating agent, in human umbilical vein endothelial cells after vascular endothelial growth factor treatment and in isolated aorta after sustained exposure to acetylcholine. Importantly, we show that S-nitrosylation of sGC results in decreased responsiveness to NO characterized by loss of NO-stimulated sGC activity. Desensitization of sGC is concentration- and time-dependent on exposure to CSNO, and sensitivity of sGC to NO can be restored and its S-nitrosylation prevented with cellular increase of thiols. We confirm in vitro with semipurified sGC that S-nitrosylation directly causes desensitization, suggesting that other cellular factors are not required. Two potential S-nitrosylated cysteines in the alpha- and beta-subunits of sGC were identified by MS. Replacement of these cysteines, C243 in alpha and C122 in beta, created mutants that were mostly resistant to desensitization. Structural analysis of the region near beta-C122 in the homologous Nostoc H-NOX crystal structure indicates that this residue is in the vicinity of the heme and its S-nitrosylation could dampen NO activation by affecting the positions of key residues interacting with the heme. This study suggests that S-nitrosylation of sGC is a means by which memory of NO exposure is kept in smooth muscle cells and could be a mechanism of NO tolerance.

Strategic Approaches to Overcome Resistance against Gram-Negative Pathogens Using β-Lactamase Inhibitors and β-Lactam Enhancers: Activity of Three Novel Diazabicyclooctanes WCK 5153, Zidebactam (WCK 5107), and WCK 4234

Limited treatment options exist to combat infections caused by multidrug-resistant (MDR) Gram-negative bacteria possessing broad-spectrum β-lactamases. The design of novel β-lactamase inhibitors is of paramount importance. Here, three novel diazabicyclooctanes (DBOs), WCK 5153, zidebactam (WCK 5107), and WCK 4234 (compounds 1-3, respectively), were synthesized and biochemically characterized against clinically important bacteria. Compound 3 inhibited class A, C, and D β-lactamases with unprecedented k₂/ K values against OXA carbapenemases. Compounds 1 and 2 acylated class A and C β-lactamses rapidly but not the tested OXAs. Compounds 1-3 formed highly stable acyl-complexes as demonstrated by mass spectrometry. Crystallography revealed that 1-3 complexed with KPC-2 adopted a "chair conformation" with the sulfate occupying the carboxylate binding region. The cefepime-2 and meropenem-3 combinations were effective in murine peritonitis and neutropenic lung infection models caused by MDR Acinetobacter baumannii. Compounds 1-3 are novel β-lactamase inhibitors that demonstate potent cross-class inhibition, and clinical studies targeting MDR infections are warranted.

Crystal structure of KPC-2: insights into carbapenemase activity in class A beta-lactamases

Beta-lactamases inactivate beta-lactam antibiotics and are a major cause of antibiotic resistance. The recent outbreaks of Klebsiella pneumoniae carbapenem resistant (KPC) infections mediated by KPC type beta-lactamases are creating a serious threat to our "last resort" antibiotics, the carbapenems. KPC beta-lactamases are serine carbapenemases and are a subclass of class A beta-lactamases that have evolved to efficiently hydrolyze carbapenems and cephamycins which contain substitutions at the alpha-position proximal to the carbonyl group that normally render these beta-lactams resistant to hydrolysis. To investigate the molecular basis of this carbapenemase activity, we have determined the structure of KPC-2 at 1.85 A resolution. The active site of KPC-2 reveals the presence of a bicine buffer molecule which interacts via its carboxyl group with conserved active site residues S130, K234, T235, and T237; these likely resemble the interactions the beta-lactam carboxyl moiety makes in the Michaelis-Menten complex. Comparison of the KPC-2 structure with non-carbapenemases and previously determined NMC-A and SME-1 carbapenemase structures shows several active site alterations that are unique among carbapenemases. An outward shift of the catalytic S70 residue renders the active sites of the carbapenemases more shallow, likely allowing easier access of the bulkier substrates. Further space for the alpha-substituents is potentially provided by shifts in N132 and N170 in addition to concerted movements in the postulated carboxyl binding pocket that might allow the substrates to bind at a slightly different angle to accommodate these alpha-substituents. The structure of KPC-2 provides key insights into the carbapenemase activity of emerging class A beta-lactamases.

Structure of cinaciguat (BAY 58-2667) bound to Nostoc H-NOX domain reveals insights into heme-mimetic activation of the soluble guanylyl cyclase

Heme is a vital molecule for all life forms with heme being capable of assisting in catalysis, binding ligands, and undergoing redox changes. Heme-related dysfunction can lead to cardiovascular diseases with the oxidation of the heme of soluble guanylyl cyclase (sGC) critically implicated in some of these cardiovascular diseases. sGC, the main nitric oxide (NO) receptor, stimulates second messenger cGMP production, whereas reactive oxygen species are known to scavenge NO and oxidize/inactivate the heme leading to sGC degradation. This vulnerability of NO-heme signaling to oxidative stress led to the discovery of an NO-independent activator of sGC, cinaciguat (BAY 58-2667), which is a candidate drug in clinical trials to treat acute decompensated heart failure. Here, we present crystallographic and mutagenesis data that reveal the mode of action of BAY 58-2667. The 2.3-A resolution structure of BAY 58-2667 bound to a heme NO and oxygen binding domain (H-NOX) from Nostoc homologous to that of sGC reveals that the trifurcated BAY 58-2667 molecule has displaced the heme and acts as a heme mimetic. Carboxylate groups of BAY 58-2667 make interactions similar to the heme-propionate groups, whereas its hydrophobic phenyl ring linker folds up within the heme cavity in a planar-like fashion. BAY 58-2667 binding causes a rotation of the alphaF helix away from the heme pocket, as this helix is normally held in place via the inhibitory His(105)-heme covalent bond. The structure provides insights into how BAY 58-2667 binds and activates sGC to rescue heme-NO dysfunction in cardiovascular diseases.

PAS-mediated dimerization of soluble guanylyl cyclase revealed by signal transduction histidine kinase domain crystal structure

Signal transduction histidine kinases (STHK) are key for sensing environmental stresses, crucial for cell survival, and attain their sensing ability using small molecule binding domains. The N-terminal domain in an STHK from Nostoc punctiforme is of unknown function yet is homologous to the central region in soluble guanylyl cyclase (sGC), the main receptor for nitric oxide (NO). This domain is termed H-NOXA (or H-NOBA) because it is often associated with the heme-nitric oxide/oxygen binding (H-NOX) domain. A structure-function approach was taken to investigate the role of H-NOXA in STHK and sGC. We report the 2.1 A resolution crystal structure of the dimerized H-NOXA domain of STHK, which reveals a Per-Arnt-Sim (PAS) fold. The H-NOXA monomers dimerize in a parallel arrangement juxtaposing their N-terminal helices and preceding residues. Such PAS dimerization is similar to that previously observed for EcDOS, AvNifL, and RmFixL. Deletion of 7 N-terminal residues affected dimer organization. Alanine scanning mutagenesis in sGC indicates that the H-NOXA domains of sGC could adopt a similar dimer organization. Although most putative interface mutations did decrease sGCbeta1 H-NOXA homodimerization, heterodimerization of full-length heterodimeric sGC was mostly unaffected, likely due to the additional dimerization contacts of sGC in the coiled-coil and catalytic domains. Exceptions are mutations sGCalpha1 F285A and sGCbeta1 F217A, which each caused a drastic drop in NO stimulated activity, and mutations sGCalpha1 Q368A and sGCbeta1 Q309A, which resulted in both a complete lack of activity and heterodimerization. Our structural and mutational results provide new insights into sGC and STHK dimerization and overall architecture.

Inhibition of Klebsiella β-Lactamases (SHV-1 and KPC-2) by Avibactam: A Structural Study

β-Lactamase inhibition is an important clinical strategy in overcoming β-lactamase-mediated resistance to β-lactam antibiotics in Gram negative bacteria. A new β-lactamase inhibitor, avibactam, is entering the clinical arena and promising to be a major step forward in our antibiotic armamentarium. Avibactam has remarkable broad-spectrum activity in being able to inhibit classes A, C, and some class D β-lactamases. We present here structural investigations into class A β-lactamase inhibition by avibactam as we report the crystal structures of SHV-1, the chromosomal penicillinase of Klebsiella pneumoniae, and KPC-2, an acquired carbapenemase found in the same pathogen, complexed with avibactam. The 1.80 Å KPC-2 and 1.42 Å resolution SHV-1 β-lactamase avibactam complex structures reveal avibactam covalently bonded to the catalytic S70 residue. Analysis of the interactions and chair-shaped conformation of avibactam bound to the active sites of KPC-2 and SHV-1 provides structural insights into recently laboratory-generated amino acid substitutions that result in resistance to avibactam in KPC-2 and SHV-1. Furthermore, we observed several important differences in the interactions with amino acid residues, in particular that avibactam forms hydrogen bonds to S130 in KPC-2 but not in SHV-1, that can possibly explain some of the different kinetic constants of inhibition. Our observations provide a possible reason for the ability of KPC-2 β-lactamase to slowly desulfate avibactam with a potential role for the stereochemistry around the N1 atom of avibactam and/or the presence of an active site water molecule that could aid in avibactam desulfation, an unexpected consequence of novel inhibition chemistry.

AIPL1, a protein implicated in Leber's congenital amaurosis, interacts with and aids in processing of farnesylated proteins

The most common form of blindness at birth, Leber's congenital amaurosis (LCA), is inherited in an autosomal recessive fashion. Mutations in six different retina-specific genes, including a recently discovered gene, AIPL1, have been linked to LCA in humans. To understand the molecular basis of LCA caused by aryl hydrocarbon receptor-interacting protein-like 1 (AIPL1) mutations, and to elucidate the normal function of AIPL1, we performed a yeast two-hybrid screen using AIPL1 as bait. The screen demonstrated that AIPL1 interacts specifically with farnesylated proteins. Mutations in AIPL1 linked to LCA compromise this activity. These findings suggest that the essential function of AIPL1 within photoreceptors requires interactions with farnesylated proteins. Analysis of isoprenylation in cultured human cells shows that AIPL1 enhances the processing of farnesylated proteins. Based on these findings, we propose that AIPL1 interacts with farnesylated proteins and plays an essential role in processing of farnesylated proteins in retina.

High resolution crystal structures of the trans-enamine intermediates formed by sulbactam and clavulanic acid and E166A SHV-1 {beta}-lactamase

Antibiotic resistance mediated by constantly evolving beta-lactamases is a serious threat to human health. The mechanism of inhibition of these enzymes by therapeutic beta-lactamase inhibitors is probed using a novel approach involving Raman microscopy and x-ray crystallography. We have presented here the high resolution crystal structures of the beta-lactamase inhibitors sulbactam and clavulanic acid bound to the deacylation-deficient E166A variant of SHV-1 beta-lactamase. Our previous Raman measurements have identified the trans-enamine species for both inhibitors and were used to guide the soaking time and concentration to achieve full occupancy of the active sites. The two inhibitor-bound x-ray structures revealed a linear trans-enamine intermediate covalently attached to the active site Ser-70 residue. This intermediate was thought to play a key role in the transient inhibition of class A beta-lactamases. Both the Raman and x-ray data indicated that the clavulanic acid intermediate is decarboxylated. When compared with our previously determined tazobactam-bound inhibitor structure, our new inhibitor-bound structures revealed an increased disorder in the tail region of the inhibitors as well as in the enamine skeleton. The x-ray crystallographic observations correlated with the broadening of the O-C=C-N (enamine) symmetric stretch Raman band near 1595 cm(-1). Band broadening in the sulbactam and clavulanic acid inter-mediates reflected a heterogeneous conformational population that results from variations of torsional angles in the O-(C=O)-C=C=NH-C skeleton. These observations led us to conclude that the conformational stability of the trans-enamine form is critical for their transient inhibitory efficacy.

Crystal structure of the signaling helix coiled-coil domain of the beta1 subunit of the soluble guanylyl cyclase

BACKGROUND

The soluble guanylyl cyclase (sGC) is a heterodimeric enzyme that, upon activation by nitric oxide, stimulates the production of the second messenger cGMP. Each sGC subunit harbor four domains three of which are used for heterodimerization: H-NOXA/H-NOBA domain, coiled-coil domain (CC), and catalytic guanylyl cyclase domain. The CC domain has previously been postulated to be part of a larger CC family termed the signaling helix (S-helix) family. Homodimers of sGC have also been observed but are not functionally active yet are likely transient awaiting their intended heterodimeric partner.

RESULTS

To investigate the structure of the CC S-helix region, we crystallized and determined the structure of the CC domain of the sGCbeta1 subunit comprising residues 348-409. The crystal structure was refined to 2.15 A resolution.

CONCLUSIONS

The CC structure of sGCbeta1 revealed a tetrameric arrangement comprised of a dimer of CC dimers. Each monomer is comprised of a long a-helix, a turn near residue P399, and a short second a-helix. The CC structure also offers insights as to how sGC homodimers are not as stable as (functionally) active heterodimers via a possible role for inter-helix salt-bridge formation. The structure also yielded insights into the residues involved in dimerization. In addition, the CC region is also known to harbor a number of congenital and man-made mutations in both membrane and soluble guanylyl cyclases and those function-affecting mutations have been mapped onto the CC structure. This mutant analysis indicated an importance for not only certain dimerization residue positions, but also an important role for other faces of the CC dimer which might perhaps interact with adjacent domains. Our results also extend beyond guanylyl cyclases as the CC structure is, to our knowledge, the first S-helix structure and serves as a model for all S-helix containing family members.

Tazobactam Forms a Stoichiometric trans-Enamine Intermediate in the E166A Variant of SHV-1 β-Lactamase: 1.63 Å Crystal Structure,

Many pathogenic bacteria develop antibiotic resistance by utilizing beta-lactamases to degrade penicillin-like antibiotics. A commonly prescribed mechanism-based inhibitor of beta-lactamases is tazobactam, which can function either irreversibly or in a transient manner. We have demonstrated previously that the reaction between tazobactam and a deacylation deficient variant of SHV-1 beta-lactamase, E166A, could be followed in single crystals using Raman microscopy [Helfand, M. S., et al. (2003) Biochemistry 42, 13386-13392]. The Raman data show that maximal populations of an enamine-like intermediate occur 20-30 min after "soaking in" has commenced. By flash-freezing crystals in this time frame, we were able to trap the enamine species. The resulting 1.63 A resolution crystal structure revealed tazobactam covalently bound in the trans-enamine intermediate state with close to 100% occupancy in the active site. The Raman data also indicated that tazobactam forms a larger population of enamine than sulbactam or clavulanic acid does and that tazobactam's intermediate is also the most long-lived. The crystal structure provides a rationale for this finding since only tazobactam is able to form favorable intra- and intermolecular interactions in the active site that stabilize this trans-enamine intermediate. These interactions involve both the sulfone and triazolyl groups that distinguish tazobactam from clavulanic acid and sulbactam, respectively. The observed stabilization of the transient intermediate of tazobactam is thought to contribute to tazobactam's superior in vitro and in vivo clinical efficacy. Understanding the structural details of differing inhibitor effectiveness can aid the design of improved mechanism-based beta-lactamase inhibitors.

Design, synthesis, and crystal structures of 6-alkylidene-2'-substituted penicillanic acid sulfones as potent inhibitors of Acinetobacter baumannii OXA-24 carbapenemase

Class D β-lactamases represent a growing and diverse class of penicillin-inactivating enzymes that are usually resistant to commercial β-lactamase inhibitors. As many such enzymes are found in multi-drug resistant (MDR) Acinetobacter baumannii and Pseudomonas aeruginosa, novel β-lactamase inhibitors are urgently needed. Five unique 6-alkylidene-2'-substituted penicillanic acid sulfones (1-5) were synthesized and tested against OXA-24, a clinically important β-lactamase that inactivates carbapenems and is found in A. baumannii. Based upon the roles Tyr112 and Met223 play in the OXA-24 β-lactamase, we also engineered two variants (Tyr112Ala and Tyr112Ala,Met223Ala) to test the hypothesis that the hydrophobic tunnel formed by these residues influences inhibitor recognition. IC(50) values against OXA-24 and two OXA-24 β-lactamase variants ranged from 10 ± 1 (4 vs WT) to 338 ± 20 nM (5 vs Tyr112Ala, Met223Ala). Compound 4 possessed the lowest K(i) (500 ± 80 nM vs WT), and 1 possessed the highest inactivation efficiency (k(inact)/K(i) = 0.21 ± 0.02 μM(-1)  s(-1)). Electrospray ionization mass spectrometry revealed a single covalent adduct, suggesting the formation of an acyl-enzyme intermediate. X-ray structures of OXA-24 complexed to four inhibitors (2.0-2.6 Å) reveal the formation of stable bicyclic aromatic intermediates with their carbonyl oxygen in the oxyanion hole. These data provide the first structural evidence that 6-alkylidene-2'-substituted penicillin sulfones are effective mechanism-based inactivators of class D β-lactamases. Their unique chemistry makes them developmental candidates. Mechanisms for class D hydrolysis and inhibition are discussed, and a pathway for the evolution of the BlaR1 sensor of Staphylococcus aureus to the class D β-lactamases is proposed.

Insights into BAY 60-2770 activation and S-nitrosylation-dependent desensitization of soluble guanylyl cyclase via crystal structures of homologous nostoc H-NOX domain complexes

The soluble guanylyl cyclase (sGC) is an important receptor for nitric oxide (NO). Nitric oxide activates sGC several hundred fold to generate cGMP from GTP. Because of sGC's salutary roles in cardiovascular physiology, it has received substantial attention as a drug target. The heme domain of sGC is key to its regulation as it not only contains the NO activation site but also harbors sites for NO-independent sGC activators as well an S-nitrosylation site (β1 C122) involved in desensitization. Here we report the crystal structure of the activator BAY 60-2770 bound to the Nostoc H-NOX domain that is homologous to sGC. The structure reveals that BAY 60-2770 has displaced the heme and acts as a heme mimetic via carboxylate-mediated interactions with the conserved YxSxR motif as well as hydrophobic interactions. Comparisons with the previously determined BAY 58-2667 bound structure reveal that BAY 60-2770 is more ordered in its hydrophobic tail region. sGC activity assays demonstrate that BAY 60-2770 has about 10% higher fold maximal stimulation compared to BAY 58-2667. S-Nitrosylation of the BAY 60-2770 substituted Nostoc H-NOX domain causes subtle changes in the vicinity of the S-nitrosylated C122 residue. These shifts could impact the adjacent YxSxR motif and αF helix and as such potentially inhibit either heme incorporation or NO-activation of sGC and thus provide a structural basis for desensitization.

Structural insights into the regulation and the activation mechanism of mammalian guanylyl cyclases

Guanylyl cyclases (GC) are proteins that are essential for the production of the second messenger cyclic guanosine monophosphate (cGMP). Mammalian GC have attracted considerable interest due to their roles in important physiological processes such as vasodilation, vision, and bone growth. In addition, their link to disease and concomitant pharmaceutical potential have made these cyclases a long standing target for probing their intriguing mechanism of activation with the aim of drug development. The vasodilatory drugs nitroglycerin and nesiritide act through (different) GC pathways and have both been shown to provide beneficial relief for congestive heart failure patients. New structural insights are recently emerging on the activation mechanism and regulation of these receptors. The aim of this review is to discuss the interesting differences and similarities between members of the soluble and membrane bound GC in detail and put these in context with the structural knowledge that is available to date. These efforts contribute to an enhanced understanding of the GC and will likely lead to an increased success in structure-based therapeutic intervention.

Effect of the inhibitor-resistant M69V substitution on the structures and populations of trans-enamine beta-lactamase intermediates

The objective of this study was to determine the molecular factors that lead to beta-lactamase inhibitor resistance for the M69V variant in SHV-1 beta-lactamase. With mechanism-based inhibitors, the beta-lactamase forms an acyl-enzyme intermediate that consists of a trans-enamine derivative in the active site. This study focuses on these intermediates by introducing the E166A mutation that greatly retards deacylation. Thus, by comparing the properties of the E166A and M69V/E166A forms, we can explore the consequences of the resistance mutation at the level of the enamine acyl-enzyme forms. The reactions between the beta-lactamase and the inhibitors tazobactam, sulbactam, and clavulanic acid are followed in single crystals of the enzymes by using a Raman microscope. The resulting Raman difference spectroscopic data provide detailed information about conformational events involving the enamine species as well as an estimate of their populations. The Raman difference spectra for each of the inhibitors in the E166A and M69V/E166A variants are very similar. In particular, detailed analysis of the main enamine Raman vibration near 1595 cm(-1) reveals that the structure and flexibility of the enamine fragments are essentially identical for each of the three inhibitors in E166A and in the M69V/E166A double mutant. This finding is in accord with the X-ray-derived structures, presented herein at 1.6-1.75 A resolution, of the trans-enamine intermediates formed by the three inhibitors in M69V/E166A. However, a comparison of Raman results for M69V/E166A and E166A shows that the M69V mutation results in a 40%, 25%, and negligible reductions in the enamine population when the beta-lactamase crystals are soaked in 5 mM tazobactam, clavulanic acid, and sulbactam solutions, respectively. The levels of enamine from tazobactam and clavulanic acid can be increased by increasing the concentrations of inhibitor in the mother liquor. Thus, the sensitivity of population levels to the inhibitor concentration in the mother liquor focuses attention on the properties of the encounter complex preceding acylation. It is proposed that for small ligands, such as tazobactam, sulbactam, and clavulanic acid, the positioning of the lactam ring in the active site in the correct orientation for acylation is only one of a number of poorly defined conformations. For tazobactam and clavulanic acid, the correctly oriented encounter complex is even less likely in the M69V variant, leading to a reduction in the level of inhibition of the enzyme via formation of the acyl-enzyme intermediate and the onset of resistance. Analysis of the X-ray structures of the three intermediates in M69V/E166A demonstrates that, compared to the structures for the E166A form, the oxyanion hole becomes smaller, providing one explanation for why acylation may be less efficient following the M69V substitution.

Rational design of a beta-lactamase inhibitor achieved via stabilization of the trans-enamine intermediate: 1.28 A crystal structure of wt SHV-1 complex with a penam sulfone

beta-Lactamases are one of the major causes of antibiotic resistance in Gram negative bacteria. The continuing evolution of beta-lactamases that are capable of hydrolyzing our most potent beta-lactams presents a vexing clinical problem, in particular since a number of them are resistant to inhibitors. The efficient inhibition of these enzymes is therefore of great clinical importance. Building upon our previous structural studies that examined tazobactam trapped as a trans-enamine intermediate in a deacylation deficient SHV variant, we designed a novel penam sulfone derivative that forms a more stable trans-enamine intermediate. We report here the 1.28 A resolution crystal structure of wt SHV-1 in complex with a rationally designed penam sulfone, SA2-13. The compound is covalently bound to the active site of wt SHV-1 similar to tazobactam yet forms an additional salt-bridge with K234 and hydrogen bonds with S130 and T235 to stabilize the trans-enamine intermediate. Kinetic measurements show that SA2-13, once reacted with SHV-1 beta-lactamase, is about 10-fold slower at being released from the enzyme compared to tazobactam. Stabilizing the trans-enamine intermediate represents a novel strategy for the rational design of mechanism-based class A beta-lactamase inhibitors.

Strategic design of an effective beta-lactamase inhibitor: LN-1-255, a 6-alkylidene-2'-substituted penicillin sulfone

In an effort to devise strategies for overcoming bacterial beta-lactamases, we studied LN-1-255, a 6-alkylidene-2'-substituted penicillin sulfone inhibitor. By possessing a catecholic functionality that resembles a natural bacterial siderophore, LN-1-255 is unique among beta-lactamase inhibitors. LN-1-255 combined with piperacillin was more potent against Escherichia coli DH10B strains bearing bla(SHV) extended-spectrum and inhibitor-resistant beta-lactamases than an equivalent amount of tazobactam and piperacillin. In addition, LN-1-255 significantly enhanced the activity of ceftazidime and cefpirome against extended-spectrum cephalosporin and Sme-1 containing carbapenem-resistant clinical strains. LN-1-255 inhibited SHV-1 and SHV-2 beta-lactamases with nm affinity (K(I) = 110 +/- 10 and 100 +/- 10 nm, respectively). When LN-1-255 inactivated SHV beta-lactamases, a single intermediate was detected by mass spectrometry. The crystal structure of LN-1-255 in complex with SHV-1 was determined at 1.55A resolution. Interestingly, this novel inhibitor forms a bicyclic aromatic intermediate with its carbonyl oxygen pointing out of the oxyanion hole and forming hydrogen bonds with Lys-234 and Ser-130 in the active site. Electron density for the "tail" of LN-1-255 is less ordered and modeled in two conformations. Both conformations have the LN-1-255 carboxyl group interacting with Arg-244, yet the remaining tails of the two conformations diverge. The observed presence of the bicyclic aromatic intermediate with its carbonyl oxygen positioned outside of the oxyanion hole provides a rationale for the stability of this inhibitory intermediate. The 2'-substituted penicillin sulfone, LN-1-255, is proving to be an important lead compound for novel beta-lactamase inhibitor design.

Discovery of the Soluble Guanylate Cyclase Activator Runcaciguat (BAY 1101042)

Herein we describe the discovery, mode of action, and preclinical characterization of the soluble guanylate cyclase (sGC) activator runcaciguat. The sGC enzyme, via the formation of cyclic guanosine monophoshphate, is a key regulator of body and tissue homeostasis. sGC activators with their unique mode of action are activating the oxidized and heme-free and therefore NO-unresponsive form of sGC, which is formed under oxidative stress. The first generation of sGC activators like cinaciguat or ataciguat exhibited limitations and were discontinued. We overcame limitations of first-generation sGC activators and identified a new chemical class via high-throughput screening. The investigation of the structure-activity relationship allowed to improve potency and multiple solubility, permeability, metabolism, and drug-drug interactions parameters. This program resulted in the discovery of the oral sGC activator runcaciguat (compound 45, BAY 1101042). Runcaciguat is currently investigated in clinical phase 2 studies for the treatment of patients with chronic kidney disease and nonproliferative diabetic retinopathy.

Mutations in the mitochondrial ribosomal protein MRPS22 lead to primary ovarian insufficiency

Primary ovarian insufficiency (POI) is characterized by amenorrhea and loss or dysfunction of ovarian follicles prior to the age of 40. POI has been associated with autosomal recessive mutations in genes involving hormonal signaling and folliculogenesis, however, the genetic etiology of POI most often remains unknown. Here we report MRPS22 homozygous missense variants c.404G>A (p.R135Q) and c.605G>A (p.R202H) identified in four females from two independent consanguineous families as a novel genetic cause of POI in adolescents. Both missense mutations identified in MRPS22 are rare, occurred in highly evolutionarily conserved residues, and are predicted to be deleterious to protein function. In contrast to prior reports of mutations in MRPS22 associated with severe mitochondrial disease, the POI phenotype is far less severe. Consistent with this genotype-phenotype correlation, mitochondrial defects in oxidative phosphorylation or rRNA levels were not detected in fibroblasts derived from the POI patients, suggesting a non-bioenergetic or tissue-specific mitochondrial defect. Furthermore, we demonstrate in a Drosophila model that mRpS22 deficiency specifically in somatic cells of the ovary had no effect on fertility, whereas flies with mRpS22 deficiency specifically in germ cells were infertile and agametic, demonstrating a cell autonomous requirement for mRpS22 in germ cell development. These findings collectively identify that MRPS22, a component of the small mitochondrial ribosome subunit, is critical for ovarian development and may therefore provide insight into the pathophysiology and treatment of ovarian dysfunction.

Is Nostoc H-NOX a NO sensor or redox switch?

Nostoc sp. (Ns) H-NOX is a heme protein found in symbiotic cyanobacteria, which has approximately 35% sequence identity and high structural homology to the beta subunit of soluble guanylyl cyclase (sGC), suggesting a NO sensing function. However, UV-vis, EPR, NIR MCD, and ligand binding experiments with ferrous and ferric Ns H-NOX indicate significant functional differences between Ns H-NOX and sGC. (1) After NO binding to sGC, the proximal histidine dissociates from the heme iron, causing a conformational change that triggers activation of sGC. In contrast, formation of pentacoordinate (5c) NO heme occurs to only a limited extent in Ns H-NOX, even at >1 mM NO. (2) Unlike sGC, two different hexacoordinate (6c) NO complexes are formed in Ns H-NOX with initial and final absorbance peaks at 418 and 414 nm, and the conversion rate is linearly dependent on [NO], indicating that a second NO binds transiently to catalyze formation of the 414 nm species. (3) sGC is insensitive to oxygen, and ferric sGC prepared by ferricyanide oxidation has a 5c high-spin heme complex. In contrast, Ns H-NOX autoxidizes in 24 h if exposed to air and forms a 6c ferric heme complex, indicating a major conformational change after oxidation and coordination by a second histidine side chain. Such a large conformational transition suggests that Ns H-NOX could function as either a redox or a NO sensor in the cyanobacterium.

Design and exploration of novel boronic acid inhibitors reveals important interactions with a clavulanic acid-resistant sulfhydryl-variable (SHV) β-lactamase

Inhibitor resistant (IR) class A β-lactamases pose a significant threat to many current antibiotic combinations. The K234R substitution in the SHV β-lactamase, from Klebsiella pneumoniae , results in resistance to ampicillin/clavulanate. After site-saturation mutagenesis of Lys-234 in SHV, microbiological and biochemical characterization of the resulting β-lactamases revealed that only -Arg conferred resistance to ampicillin/clavulanate. X-ray crystallography revealed two conformations of Arg-234 and Ser-130 in SHV K234R. The movement of Ser-130 is the principal cause of the observed clavulanate resistance. A panel of boronic acid inhibitors was designed and tested against SHV-1 and SHV K234R. A chiral ampicillin analogue was discovered to have a 2.4 ± 0.2 nM K(i) for SHV K234R; the chiral ampicillin analogue formed a more complex hydrogen-bonding network in SHV K234R vs SHV-1. Consideration of the spatial position of Ser-130 and Lys-234 and this hydrogen-bonding network will be important in the design of novel antibiotics targeting IR β-lactamases.

Molecular recognition of S-nitrosothiol substrate by its cognate protein denitrosylase

Protein S-nitrosylation mediates a large part of nitric oxide's influence on cellular function by providing a fundamental mechanism to control protein function across different species and cell types. At steady state, cellular S-nitrosylation reflects dynamic equilibria between S-nitrosothiols (SNOs) in proteins and small molecules (low-molecular-weight SNOs) whose levels are regulated by dedicated S-nitrosylases and denitrosylases. S-Nitroso-CoA (SNO-CoA) and its cognate denitrosylases, SNO-CoA reductases (SCoRs), are newly identified determinants of protein S-nitrosylation in both yeast and mammals. Because SNO-CoA is a minority species among potentially thousands of cellular SNOs, SCoRs must preferentially recognize this SNO substrate. However, little is known about the molecular mechanism by which cellular SNOs are recognized by their cognate enzymes. Using mammalian cells, molecular modeling, substrate-capture assays, and mutagenic analyses, we identified a single conserved surface Lys (Lys-127) residue as well as active-site interactions of the SNO group that mediate recognition of SNO-CoA by SCoR. Comparing SCoR^K127A versus SCoR^WT HEK293 cells, we identified a SNO-CoA-dependent nitrosoproteome, including numerous metabolic protein substrates. Finally, we discovered that the SNO-CoA/SCoR system has a role in mitochondrial metabolism. Collectively, our findings provide molecular insights into the basis of specificity in SNO-CoA-mediated metabolic signaling and suggest a role for SCoR-regulated S-nitrosylation in multiple metabolic processes.

Exploring Additional Dimensions of Complexity in Inhibitor Design for Serine β-Lactamases: Mechanistic and Intra- and Inter-molecular Chemistry Approaches

As a bacterial resistance strategy, serine β-lactamases have evolved from cell wall synthesizing enzymes known as penicillin-binding proteins (PBP), by not only covalently binding β-lactam antibiotics but, also acquiring mechanisms of deacylating these antibiotics. This critical deacylation step leads to release of hydrolyzed and inactivated β-lactams, thereby providing resistance for the bacteria against these antibiotics targeting the cell wall. To combat β-lactamase-mediated antibiotic resistance, numerous β-lactamase inhibitors were developed that utilize various strategies to inactivate the β-lactamase. Most of these compounds are “mechanism-based” inhibitors that in some manner mimic the β-lactam substrate, having a carbonyl moiety and a negatively charged carboxyl or sulfate group. These compounds form a covalent adduct with the catalytic serine via an initial acylation step. To increase the life-time of the inhibitory covalent adduct intermediates, a remarkable array of different strategies was employed to improve inhibition potency. Such approaches include post-acylation intra- and intermolecular chemical rearrangements as well as affecting the deacylation water. These approaches transform the inhibitor design process from a 3-dimensional problem (i.e., XYZ coordinates) to one with additional dimensions of complexity as the reaction coordinate and time spent at each chemical state need to be taken into consideration. This review highlights the mechanistic intricacies of the design efforts of the β-lactamase inhibitors which so far have resulted in the development of “two generations” and 5 clinically available inhibitors.

Crystal structure of a preacylation complex of the β-lactamase inhibitor sulbactam bound to a sulfenamide bond-containing thiol-β-lactamase

The rise of inhibitor-resistant and other β-lactamase variants is generating an interest in developing new β-lactamase inhibitors to complement currently available antibiotics. To gain insight into the chemistry of inhibitor recognition, we determined the crystal structure of the inhibitor preacylation complex of sulbactam, a clinical β-lactamase inhibitor, bound in the active site of the S70C variant of SHV-1 β-lactamase, a resistance enzyme that is normally present in Klebsiella pneumoniae. The S70C mutation was designed to affect the reactivity of that catalytic residue to allow for capture of the preacylation complex. Unexpectedly, the 1.45 Å resolution inhibitor complex structure revealed that residue C70 is involved in a sulfenamide bond with K73. Such a covalent bond is not present in the wild-type SHV-1 or in an apo S70C structure also determined in this study. This bond likely contributed significantly to obtaining the preacylation complex with sulbactam due to further decreased reactivity toward substrates. The intact sulbactam is positioned in the active site such that its carboxyl moiety interacts with R244, S130, and T235 and its carbonyl moiety is situated in the oxyanion hole. To our knowledge, in addition to being the first preacylation inhibitor β-lactamase complex, this is also the first observation of a sulfenamide bond between a cysteine and lysine in an active site. Not only could our results aid, therefore, structure-based inhibitor design efforts in class A β-lactamases, but the sulfenamide-bond forming approach to yield preacylation complexes could also be applied to other classes of β-lactamases and penicillin-binding proteins with the SXXK motif.

A γ-Lactam Siderophore Antibiotic Effective against Multidrug-Resistant Gram-Negative Bacilli

Treatment of multidrug-resistant Gram-negative bacterial pathogens represents a critical clinical need. Here, we report a novel γ-lactam pyrazolidinone that targets penicillin-binding proteins (PBPs) and incorporates a siderophore moiety to facilitate uptake into the periplasm. The MIC values of γ-lactam YU253434, 1, are reported along with the finding that 1 is resistant to hydrolysis by all four classes of β-lactamases. The druglike characteristics and mouse PK data are described along with the X-ray crystal structure of 1 binding to its target PBP3.