1
|
Harrington S, Pyche J, Burns AR, Spalholz T, Ryan KT, Baker RJ, Ching J, Rufener L, Lautens M, Kulke D, Vernudachi A, Zamanian M, Deuther-Conrad W, Brust P, Roy PJ. Nemacol is a small molecule inhibitor of C. elegans vesicular acetylcholine transporter with anthelmintic potential. Nat Commun 2023; 14:1816. [PMID: 37002199 PMCID: PMC10066365 DOI: 10.1038/s41467-023-37452-6] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/14/2022] [Accepted: 03/17/2023] [Indexed: 04/03/2023] Open
Abstract
Nematode parasites of humans and livestock pose a significant burden to human health, economic development, and food security. Anthelmintic drug resistance is widespread among parasites of livestock and many nematode parasites of humans lack effective treatments. Here, we present a nitrophenyl-piperazine scaffold that induces motor defects rapidly in the model nematode Caenorhabditis elegans. We call this scaffold Nemacol and show that it inhibits the vesicular acetylcholine transporter (VAChT), a target recognized by commercial animal and crop health groups as a viable anthelmintic target. We demonstrate that it is possible to create Nemacol analogs that maintain potent in vivo activity whilst lowering their affinity to the mammalian VAChT 10-fold. We also show that Nemacol enhances the ability of the anthelmintic Ivermectin to paralyze C. elegans and the ruminant nematode parasite Haemonchus contortus. Hence, Nemacol represents a promising new anthelmintic scaffold that acts through a validated anthelmintic target.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Sean Harrington
- Department of Pharmacology and Toxicology, University of Toronto, Toronto, ON, M5S 1A8, Canada
- The Donnelly Centre for Cellular and Biomolecular Research, University of Toronto, Toronto, ON, M5S 3E1, Canada
- Department of Molecular Genetics, University of Toronto, Toronto, ON, M5S 1A8, Canada
| | - Jacob Pyche
- Department of Pharmacology and Toxicology, University of Toronto, Toronto, ON, M5S 1A8, Canada
- The Donnelly Centre for Cellular and Biomolecular Research, University of Toronto, Toronto, ON, M5S 3E1, Canada
| | - Andrew R Burns
- The Donnelly Centre for Cellular and Biomolecular Research, University of Toronto, Toronto, ON, M5S 3E1, Canada
- Department of Molecular Genetics, University of Toronto, Toronto, ON, M5S 1A8, Canada
| | - Tina Spalholz
- Department of Neuroradiopharmaceuticals, Institute of Radiopharmaceutical Cancer Research, Helmholtz-Zentrum Dresden-Rossendorf, 04318, Leipzig, Germany
| | - Kaetlyn T Ryan
- Department of Pathobiological Sciences, University of Wisconsin-Madison, Madison, WI, USA
| | - Rachel J Baker
- The Department of Chemistry, University of Toronto, 80 St. George Street, Toronto, ON, M5S 3H6, Canada
| | - Justin Ching
- The Department of Chemistry, University of Toronto, 80 St. George Street, Toronto, ON, M5S 3H6, Canada
| | - Lucien Rufener
- INVENesis Sàrl, Route de Neuchâtel 15A, 2072, St Blaise (NE), Switzerland
| | - Mark Lautens
- The Department of Chemistry, University of Toronto, 80 St. George Street, Toronto, ON, M5S 3H6, Canada
| | - Daniel Kulke
- Research Parasiticides, Bayer Animal Health GmbH, Monheim, Germany
- Department of Biomedical Sciences, Iowa State University, Ames, IA, 50011, USA
- Global Innovation, Boehringer Ingelheim Vetmedica GmbH, Binger Str. 173, 55218, Ingelheim am Rhein, Germany
| | | | - Mostafa Zamanian
- Department of Pathobiological Sciences, University of Wisconsin-Madison, Madison, WI, USA
| | - Winnie Deuther-Conrad
- Department of Neuroradiopharmaceuticals, Institute of Radiopharmaceutical Cancer Research, Helmholtz-Zentrum Dresden-Rossendorf, 04318, Leipzig, Germany
| | - Peter Brust
- Department of Neuroradiopharmaceuticals, Institute of Radiopharmaceutical Cancer Research, Helmholtz-Zentrum Dresden-Rossendorf, 04318, Leipzig, Germany
- The Lübeck Institute of Experimental Dermatology, University Medical Center Schleswig-Holstein, 23562, Lübeck, Germany
| | - Peter J Roy
- Department of Pharmacology and Toxicology, University of Toronto, Toronto, ON, M5S 1A8, Canada.
- The Donnelly Centre for Cellular and Biomolecular Research, University of Toronto, Toronto, ON, M5S 3E1, Canada.
- Department of Molecular Genetics, University of Toronto, Toronto, ON, M5S 1A8, Canada.
| |
Collapse
|
2
|
Rufener L, Kaur K, Sarr A, Aaen SM, Horsberg TE. Nicotinic acetylcholine receptors: Ex-vivo expression of functional, non-hybrid, heteropentameric receptors from a marine arthropod, Lepeophtheirus salmonis. PLoS Pathog 2020; 16:e1008715. [PMID: 32716968 PMCID: PMC7419010 DOI: 10.1371/journal.ppat.1008715] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/19/2020] [Revised: 08/11/2020] [Accepted: 06/18/2020] [Indexed: 11/18/2022] Open
Abstract
Nicotinic acetylcholine receptors (nAChRs) are ligand-gated ion channels mostly located in the post-synaptic membrane of cholinergic synapses. The natural neurotransmitter is acetylcholine, but they are also the direct targets for neonicotinoids, chemicals widely used against ectoparasites, arthropod vectors and agricultural pests. There are significant concerns regarding adverse effects of neonicotinoids on beneficial insects. In arthropods, functional nAChRs made of α subunits have been expressed from Drosophila genes, and hybrid receptors (sometimes also referred to as chimeric receptors) using species-specific α subunits and vertebrate β subunits have been expressed ex-vivo. Arthropod-specific nAChRs made of both α and β subunits from the target species have not been expressed ex-vivo. The aim of the current study was to express such receptors in Xenopus oocytes using only genes from Lepeophtheirus salmonis, to characterize them and study their modulation. Genes encoding α and β subunits of the nAChRs and three ancillary proteins, RIC-3, UNC-50 and UNC-74 were identified in the L. salmonis genome, subjected to RACE-PCR, cloned into an expression vector and the cRNA produced was then injected into Xenopus laevis oocytes. Co-expression of the ancillary proteins was essential for the successful expression of the L. salmonis nAChRs with both α and β subunits. Two functional nAChRs were identified: Lsa-nAChR1 consisting of α1, α2, β1 and β2 subunits, reconstituted to one distinct receptor, while Lsa-nAChR2, consisting of α3, β1 and β2 subunits reconstitutes receptors with two distinct characteristics. Out of seven neonicotinoids tested, six worked as partial agonist of Lsa-nAChR1 while only three did so for Lsa-nAChR2. Four non-neonicotinoid compounds tested had no effect on either of the nAChRs. The study demonstrated that fully functional, non-hybrid nAChRs containing both α and β subunits from an arthropod can be reconstituted ex-vivo by co-expression of essential ancillary proteins. Such models would be valuable for in-depth studies of effects by neonicotinoids and other compounds on target pests, as well as for studies of adverse effects on non-target arthropods. Nicotinic acetylcholine receptors, nAChRs, respond to the neurotransmitter acetylcholine or drugs like nicotine. These receptors are targets for neonicotinoids, the most commonly used compounds against ectoparasites and agricultural pests. In-depth studies of the function of these channels in arthropods are sparse, as no groups managed to reconstitute functional nAChRs made of both α and β subunits using genes only from the target arthropod in an ex-vivo system. We report the successful assembly of non-hybrid, fully functional nAChRs containing both α and β subunits from a marine arthropod, assembled and expressed in Xenopus laevis oocytes. We identified two possible combinations of α and β subunits producing functional receptors. We found ancillary proteins to be essential for successful expression and assembly of both α and β subunits into a functional receptor. The findings of the present study provide a basis for studying native nAChRs from arthropods, with a switch from hybrid nAChRs to species-specific native nAChRs.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Lucien Rufener
- INVENesis Sarl, chemin de Belleroche, Neuchâtel, Switzerland
| | - Kiranpreet Kaur
- Norwegian University of Life Sciences, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, Sea Lice Research Centre, Oslo, Norway
- Aker BioMarine AS, Lysaker, Norway
| | - Anouk Sarr
- INVENesis Sarl, chemin de Belleroche, Neuchâtel, Switzerland
| | - Stian Mørch Aaen
- Norwegian University of Life Sciences, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, Sea Lice Research Centre, Oslo, Norway
- Aqua Pharma Group, Hovemoveien, Lillehammer, Norway
| | - Tor Einar Horsberg
- Norwegian University of Life Sciences, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, Sea Lice Research Centre, Oslo, Norway
- * E-mail:
| |
Collapse
|
3
|
Alijevic O, McHugh D, Rufener L, Mazurov A, Hoeng J, Peitsch M. An electrophysiological characterization of naturally occurring tobacco alkaloids and their action on human α4β2 and α7 nicotinic acetylcholine receptors. Phytochemistry 2020; 170:112187. [PMID: 31865001 DOI: 10.1016/j.phytochem.2019.112187] [Citation(s) in RCA: 23] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/07/2019] [Revised: 10/21/2019] [Accepted: 10/22/2019] [Indexed: 06/10/2023]
Abstract
Nicotinic acetylcholine receptor (nAChR) subtype-selective pharmacological profiles of tobacco alkaloids are essential for understanding the physiological effects of tobacco products. In this study, automated electrophysiology was used to functionally characterize the effects of distinct groups of tobacco alkaloids on human α4β2 and α7 nAChRs. We found that, in tobacco alkaloids, pyridine as a hydrogen bond acceptor and a basic nitrogen atom at a distance of 4-7 Å are pharmacophoric elements necessary for molecular recognition by α4β2 and α7 nAChRs with various degrees of selectivity, potency, and efficacy. While four alkaloids-nicotine, nornicotine, anabasine and R-anatabine-potently activated α4β2, they were also weak agonists of α7 nAChRs. Nicotine was the most potent agonist of α4β2, while anabasine elicited the highest activation of α7. None of the tobacco alkaloids enhanced nAChR activity elicited by the endogenous ligand acetylcholine; therefore, none was considered to be a positive allosteric modulator (PAM) of either α4β2 or α7 nAChRs. In contrast, we identified tobacco alkaloids, such as the tryptophan metabolite 6-hydroxykynurenic acid, that decreased the activity of both α4β2 and α7 nAChRs. Our study identified a class of alkaloids with positive and negative effects against human α4β2 and α7 nAChRs. It also revealed human α4β2 to be the principal receptor for sensing the most abundant alkaloids in tobacco leaves.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Omar Alijevic
- PMI R&D, Philip Morris Products S.A., Quai Jeanrenaud 5, CH-2000, Neuchâtel, Switzerland
| | - Damian McHugh
- PMI R&D, Philip Morris Products S.A., Quai Jeanrenaud 5, CH-2000, Neuchâtel, Switzerland.
| | | | - Anatoly Mazurov
- PMI R&D, Philip Morris Products S.A., Quai Jeanrenaud 5, CH-2000, Neuchâtel, Switzerland
| | - Julia Hoeng
- PMI R&D, Philip Morris Products S.A., Quai Jeanrenaud 5, CH-2000, Neuchâtel, Switzerland
| | - Manuel Peitsch
- PMI R&D, Philip Morris Products S.A., Quai Jeanrenaud 5, CH-2000, Neuchâtel, Switzerland
| |
Collapse
|
4
|
Poley JD, Braden LM, Messmer AM, Igboeli OO, Whyte SK, Macdonald A, Rodriguez J, Gameiro M, Rufener L, Bouvier J, Wadowska DW, Koop BF, Hosking BC, Fast MD. High level efficacy of lufenuron against sea lice (Lepeophtheirus salmonis) linked to rapid impact on moulting processes. Int J Parasitol Drugs Drug Resist 2018; 8:174-188. [PMID: 29627513 PMCID: PMC6039351 DOI: 10.1016/j.ijpddr.2018.02.007] [Citation(s) in RCA: 18] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [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: 10/13/2017] [Revised: 02/26/2018] [Accepted: 02/28/2018] [Indexed: 11/29/2022]
Abstract
Drug resistance in the salmon louse Lepeophtheirus salmonis is a global issue for Atlantic salmon aquaculture. Multiple resistance has been described across most available compound classes with the exception of the benzoylureas. To target this gap in effective management of L. salmonis and other species of sea lice (e.g. Caligus spp.), Elanco Animal Health is developing an in-feed treatment containing lufenuron (a benzoylurea) to be administered prior to seawater transfer of salmon smolts and to provide long-term protection of salmon against sea lice infestations. Benzoylureas disrupt chitin synthesis, formation, and deposition during all moulting events. However, the mechanism(s) of action are not yet fully understood and most research completed to date has focused on insects. We exposed the first parasitic stage of L. salmonis to 700 ppb lufenuron for three hours and observed over 90% reduction in survival to the chalimus II life stage on the host, as compared to vehicle controls. This agrees with a follow up in vivo administration study on the host, which showed >95% reduction by the chalimus I stage. Transcriptomic responses of salmon lice exposed to lufenuron included genes related to moulting, epithelial differentiation, solute transport, and general developmental processes. Global metabolite profiles also suggest that membrane stability and fluidity is impacted in treated lice. These molecular signals are likely the underpinnings of an abnormal moulting process and cuticle formation observed ultrastructurally using transmission electron microscopy. Treated nauplii-staged lice exhibited multiple abnormalities in the integument, suggesting that the coordinated assembly of the epi- and procuticle is impaired. In all cases, treatment with lufenuron had rapid impacts on L. salmonis development. We describe multiple experiments to characterize the efficacy of lufenuron on eggs, larvae, and parasitic stages of L. salmonis, and provide the most comprehensive assessment of the physiological responses of a marine arthropod to a benzoylurea chemical.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Jordan D Poley
- Hoplite Lab, Department of Pathology & Microbiology, Atlantic Veterinary College, University of Prince Edward Island, 550 University Ave, Charlottetown PE, C1A 4P3, Canada.
| | - Laura M Braden
- Hoplite Lab, Department of Pathology & Microbiology, Atlantic Veterinary College, University of Prince Edward Island, 550 University Ave, Charlottetown PE, C1A 4P3, Canada.
| | - Amber M Messmer
- Centre for Biomedical Research, Department of Biology, University of Victoria, Victoria BC, V8W 3N5, Canada.
| | - Okechukwu O Igboeli
- Hoplite Lab, Department of Pathology & Microbiology, Atlantic Veterinary College, University of Prince Edward Island, 550 University Ave, Charlottetown PE, C1A 4P3, Canada.
| | - Shona K Whyte
- Hoplite Lab, Department of Pathology & Microbiology, Atlantic Veterinary College, University of Prince Edward Island, 550 University Ave, Charlottetown PE, C1A 4P3, Canada.
| | - Alicia Macdonald
- Elanco Canada Limited, 150 Research Lane, Guelph, Ontario N1G 4T2, Canada.
| | - Jose Rodriguez
- Elanco Canada Limited, 150 Research Lane, Guelph, Ontario N1G 4T2, Canada.
| | - Marta Gameiro
- Elanco Canada Limited, 150 Research Lane, Guelph, Ontario N1G 4T2, Canada.
| | - Lucien Rufener
- Elanco Centre de Recherche Santé Animale SA, CH-1566 St.-Aubin, Switzerland; INVENesis LLC, Chemin de Belleroche 14, 2000 Neuchâtel, Switzerland.
| | - Jacques Bouvier
- Elanco Centre de Recherche Santé Animale SA, CH-1566 St.-Aubin, Switzerland; INVENesis LLC, Chemin de Belleroche 14, 2000 Neuchâtel, Switzerland.
| | - Dorota W Wadowska
- Electron Microscopy Laboratory, Atlantic Veterinary College, University of Prince Edward Island, 550 University Ave, Charlottetown, PEI, C1A 4P3, Canada.
| | - Ben F Koop
- Centre for Biomedical Research, Department of Biology, University of Victoria, Victoria BC, V8W 3N5, Canada.
| | - Barry C Hosking
- Elanco Canada Limited, 150 Research Lane, Guelph, Ontario N1G 4T2, Canada.
| | - Mark D Fast
- Hoplite Lab, Department of Pathology & Microbiology, Atlantic Veterinary College, University of Prince Edward Island, 550 University Ave, Charlottetown PE, C1A 4P3, Canada.
| |
Collapse
|
5
|
Rufener L, Danelli V, Bertrand D, Sager H. The novel isoxazoline ectoparasiticide lotilaner (Credelio™): a non-competitive antagonist specific to invertebrates γ-aminobutyric acid-gated chloride channels (GABACls). Parasit Vectors 2017; 10:530. [PMID: 29089046 PMCID: PMC5664438 DOI: 10.1186/s13071-017-2470-4] [Citation(s) in RCA: 34] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/14/2017] [Accepted: 10/11/2017] [Indexed: 11/10/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND The isoxazolines are a novel class of parasiticides that are potent inhibitors of γ-aminobutyric acid (GABA)-gated chloride channels (GABACls) and, to a lesser extent, of inhibitory glutamate-gated chloride channels (GluCls). Lotilaner (Credelio™), a novel representative of this chemical class, is currently evaluated for its excellent ectoparasiticide properties. METHODS In this study, we investigated the molecular mode of action and pharmacology of lotilaner. We report the successful gene identification, cDNA cloning and functional expression in Xenopus oocytes of Drosohpila melanogaster (wild type and dieldrin/fipronil-resistant forms), Lepeophtheirus salmonis (an ectoparasite copepod crustacean of salmon), Rhipicephalus microplus and Canis lupus familiaris GABACls. Automated Xenopus oocyte two-electrode voltage clamp electrophysiology was used to assess GABACls functionality and to compare ion channel inhibition by lotilaner with that of established insecticides addressing GABACls as targets. RESULTS In these assays, we demonstrated that lotilaner is a potent non-competitive antagonist of insects (fly) GABACls. No cross-resistance with dieldrin or fipronil resistance mutations was detected, suggesting that lotilaner might bind to a site at least partly different from the one bound by known GABACl blockers. Using co-application experiments, we observed that lotilaner antagonism differs significantly from the classical open channel blocker fipronil. We finally confirmed for the first time that isoxazoline compounds are not only powerful antagonists of GABACls of acari (ticks) but also of crustaceans (sea lice), while no activity on a dog GABAA receptor was observed up to a concentration of 10 μM. CONCLUSIONS Together, these results demonstrate that lotilaner is a non-competitive antagonist specific to invertebrate's γ-aminobutyric acid-gated chloride channels (GABACls). They contribute to our understanding of the mode of action of this new ectoparasiticide compound.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Lucien Rufener
- Elanco Animal Health, Mattenstrasse 24a, CH-4058, Basel, Switzerland.
| | - Vanessa Danelli
- Elanco Animal Health, Mattenstrasse 24a, CH-4058, Basel, Switzerland
| | - Daniel Bertrand
- HiQScreen Sàrl, Route de Compois 6, CH-1222, Vésenaz, Switzerland
| | - Heinz Sager
- Elanco Animal Health, Mattenstrasse 24a, CH-4058, Basel, Switzerland
| |
Collapse
|
6
|
Kotze AC, Hunt PW, Skuce P, von Samson-Himmelstjerna G, Martin RJ, Sager H, Krücken J, Hodgkinson J, Lespine A, Jex AR, Gilleard JS, Beech RN, Wolstenholme AJ, Demeler J, Robertson AP, Charvet CL, Neveu C, Kaminsky R, Rufener L, Alberich M, Menez C, Prichard RK. Recent advances in candidate-gene and whole-genome approaches to the discovery of anthelmintic resistance markers and the description of drug/receptor interactions. Int J Parasitol Drugs Drug Resist 2014; 4:164-84. [PMID: 25516826 PMCID: PMC4266812 DOI: 10.1016/j.ijpddr.2014.07.007] [Citation(s) in RCA: 123] [Impact Index Per Article: 12.3] [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: 05/29/2014] [Revised: 07/25/2014] [Accepted: 07/29/2014] [Indexed: 12/30/2022]
Abstract
Anthelmintic resistance has a great impact on livestock production systems worldwide, is an emerging concern in companion animal medicine, and represents a threat to our ongoing ability to control human soil-transmitted helminths. The Consortium for Anthelmintic Resistance and Susceptibility (CARS) provides a forum for scientists to meet and discuss the latest developments in the search for molecular markers of anthelmintic resistance. Such markers are important for detecting drug resistant worm populations, and indicating the likely impact of the resistance on drug efficacy. The molecular basis of resistance is also important for understanding how anthelmintics work, and how drug resistant populations arise. Changes to target receptors, drug efflux and other biological processes can be involved. This paper reports on the CARS group meeting held in August 2013 in Perth, Australia. The latest knowledge on the development of molecular markers for resistance to each of the principal classes of anthelmintics is reviewed. The molecular basis of resistance is best understood for the benzimidazole group of compounds, and we examine recent work to translate this knowledge into useful diagnostics for field use. We examine recent candidate-gene and whole-genome approaches to understanding anthelmintic resistance and identify markers. We also look at drug transporters in terms of providing both useful markers for resistance, as well as opportunities to overcome resistance through the targeting of the transporters themselves with inhibitors. Finally, we describe the tools available for the application of the newest high-throughput sequencing technologies to the study of anthelmintic resistance.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Andrew C. Kotze
- CSIRO Animal, Food and Health Sciences, Brisbane, QLD, Australia
| | - Peter W. Hunt
- CSIRO Animal, Food and Health Sciences, Armidale, NSW, Australia
| | - Philip Skuce
- Parasitology Division, Moredun Research Institute, Penicuik, Midlothian, UK
| | | | - Richard J. Martin
- Department of Biomedical Sciences, Iowa State University, Ames, IA, USA
| | - Heinz Sager
- Novartis Centre de Recherche Sante Animale, St. Aubin, Switzerland
| | - Jürgen Krücken
- Institute for Parasitology and Tropical Veterinary Medicine, Freie Universitat Berlin, Berlin, Germany
| | - Jane Hodgkinson
- Veterinary Parasitology, Institute of Infection and Global Health, University of Liverpool, Liverpool, UK
| | - Anne Lespine
- INRA, Toxalim, Research Centre in Food Toxicology, Toulouse, France
| | - Aaron R. Jex
- Faculty of Veterinary Science, University of Melbourne, Parkville, VIC, Australia
| | - John S. Gilleard
- Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, University of Calgary, Calgary, AB, Canada
| | - Robin N. Beech
- Institute of Parasitology, McGill University, QC, Canada
| | - Adrian J. Wolstenholme
- Department of Infectious Diseases & Center for Tropical and Emerging Global Disease, University of Georgia, Athens, GA, USA
| | - Janina Demeler
- Institute for Parasitology and Tropical Veterinary Medicine, Freie Universitat Berlin, Berlin, Germany
| | - Alan P. Robertson
- Department of Biomedical Sciences, Iowa State University, Ames, IA, USA
| | - Claude L. Charvet
- INRA, Infectiologie et Santé Publique, Nouzilly, France
- Université François Rabelais de Tours, Infectiologie et Santé Publique, Tours, France
| | - Cedric Neveu
- INRA, Infectiologie et Santé Publique, Nouzilly, France
- Université François Rabelais de Tours, Infectiologie et Santé Publique, Tours, France
| | - Ronald Kaminsky
- Novartis Centre de Recherche Sante Animale, St. Aubin, Switzerland
| | - Lucien Rufener
- Novartis Centre de Recherche Sante Animale, St. Aubin, Switzerland
| | - Melanie Alberich
- INRA, Toxalim, Research Centre in Food Toxicology, Toulouse, France
| | - Cecile Menez
- INRA, Toxalim, Research Centre in Food Toxicology, Toulouse, France
| | | |
Collapse
|
7
|
Baur R, Beech R, Sigel E, Rufener L. Monepantel irreversibly binds to and opens Haemonchus contortus MPTL-1 and Caenorhabditis elegans ACR-20 receptors. Mol Pharmacol 2014; 87:96-102. [PMID: 25352042 DOI: 10.1124/mol.114.095653] [Citation(s) in RCA: 26] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/25/2023] Open
Abstract
Monepantel is a recently developed anthelmintic with a novel mode of action. Parasitic nematodes with reduced sensitivity to monepantel have led to the identification of MPTL-1, a ligand-gated ion-channel subunit of the parasitic nematode Haemonchus contortus, as a potential drug target. Homomeric MPTL-1 channels reconstituted in Xenopus oocytes are gated by µM concentrations of betaine and mM concentrations of choline. Measurement of reversal potentials indicated that the channel has a similar conductance for Na(+) and K(+) ions and does not permeate Ca(2+). Concentrations of monepantel (amino-acetonitrile derivative [AAD]-2225) >0.1 μM, but not its inactive enantiomer AAD-2224, induced channel opening in an irreversible manner. Currents elicited by monepantel alone were larger than the maximal current amplitudes achieved with betaine or choline, making monepantel a superagonist. Currents elicited by betaine or choline were allosterically potentiated by nM concentrations of monepantel and to a much smaller degree by AAD-2224. We have also reconstituted the Caenorhabditis elegans homomeric ACR-20 receptor in Xenopus oocytes. The acr-20 sequence has higher similarity to mptl-1 than acr-23, the primary target for monepantel mode of action in C. elegans. The ACR-20 channel is gated similarly as MPTL-1. Monepantel, but not AAD-2224, was able to induce channel opening in an irreversible manner at similar concentrations as for MPTL-1. Interestingly, the allosteric potentiation measured in the presence of betaine was much smaller than in MPTL-1 receptors. Together, these results establish the mode of action of monepantel in H. contortus and contribute to our understanding of the mode of action of this anthelmintic.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Roland Baur
- Institute for Biochemistry and Molecular Medicine, University of Bern, Bern, Switzerland (R.Ba., E.S.); Institute of Parasitology, Macdonald College, McGill University, Ste Anne de Bellevue, Quebec, Canada (R.Be., L.R.); and Novartis Centre de Recherche Santé Animale, Saint-Aubin, Switzerland (L.R.)
| | - Robin Beech
- Institute for Biochemistry and Molecular Medicine, University of Bern, Bern, Switzerland (R.Ba., E.S.); Institute of Parasitology, Macdonald College, McGill University, Ste Anne de Bellevue, Quebec, Canada (R.Be., L.R.); and Novartis Centre de Recherche Santé Animale, Saint-Aubin, Switzerland (L.R.)
| | - Erwin Sigel
- Institute for Biochemistry and Molecular Medicine, University of Bern, Bern, Switzerland (R.Ba., E.S.); Institute of Parasitology, Macdonald College, McGill University, Ste Anne de Bellevue, Quebec, Canada (R.Be., L.R.); and Novartis Centre de Recherche Santé Animale, Saint-Aubin, Switzerland (L.R.)
| | - Lucien Rufener
- Institute for Biochemistry and Molecular Medicine, University of Bern, Bern, Switzerland (R.Ba., E.S.); Institute of Parasitology, Macdonald College, McGill University, Ste Anne de Bellevue, Quebec, Canada (R.Be., L.R.); and Novartis Centre de Recherche Santé Animale, Saint-Aubin, Switzerland (L.R.)
| |
Collapse
|
8
|
Bahrami F, Pourgholami MH, Mekkawy AH, Rufener L, Morris DL. Monepantel induces autophagy in human ovarian cancer cells through disruption of the mTOR/p70S6K signalling pathway. Am J Cancer Res 2014; 4:558-571. [PMID: 25232497 PMCID: PMC4163620] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/24/2014] [Accepted: 08/16/2014] [Indexed: 06/03/2023] Open
Abstract
We have recently shown that the novel anthelmintic drug monepantel (MPL) inhibits growth, proliferation and colony formation, arrests the cell cycle and induces cleavage of PARP-1 in ovarian cancer cell lines. Here we report on the mechanism behind the anticancer properties of MPL. The cytotoxic effect of MPL on ovarian cancer cells (OVCAR-3 and A2780) was investigated employing a panel of tests used for the detection of apoptosis and autophagy. Apoptosis and autophagy were defined by caspase activity, DNA-laddering, Annexin-V and acridine orange (AO) staining. Autophagy markers such as LC3B, SQSTM1/p62 and mammalian target of rapamycin (mTOR) pathway related proteins were assessed by western blotting and ELISA techniques. MPL did not activate caspases 3 or 8, nor did it alter the percentage of Annexin V positive stained cells. Failure to cause DNA laddering and the inability of z-VAD-fmk to block the MPL antiproliferative effects led to the ruling out of apoptosis as the mechanism behind MPL-induced cell death. On the other hand, accumulation of acidic vacuoles with distinct chromatin morphology and an increase in punctuate localization of green fluorescent protein-LC3B, and MPL-induced changes in the expression of SQSTM1/p62 were all indicative of MPL-induced autophagy. Consistent with this, we found inhibition of mTOR phosphorylation leading to suppression of the mTOR/p70S6K signalling pathway. Our findings provide the first evidence to show that MPL triggers autophagy through the deactivation of mTOR/p70S6K signalling pathway.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Farnaz Bahrami
- Cancer Research Laboratory, Department of Surgery, University of New South Wales, St George HospitalSydney, New South Wales, 2217, Australia
| | - Mohammad H Pourgholami
- Cancer Research Laboratory, Department of Surgery, St George HospitalSydney, New South Wales, 2217, Australia
| | - Ahmed H Mekkawy
- Cancer Research Laboratory, Department of Surgery, University of New South Wales, St George HospitalSydney, New South Wales, 2217, Australia
| | - Lucien Rufener
- Novartis Centre de Recherche Santé AnimaleCH-1566 St Aubin (FR), Switzerland
| | - David L Morris
- Cancer Research Laboratory, Department of Surgery, University of New South Wales, St George HospitalSydney, New South Wales, 2217, Australia
| |
Collapse
|
9
|
Bahrami F, Morris DL, Rufener L, Pourgholami MH. Anticancer properties of novel aminoacetonitrile derivative monepantel (ADD 1566) in pre-clinical models of human ovarian cancer. Am J Cancer Res 2014; 4:545-557. [PMID: 25232496 PMCID: PMC4163619] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/17/2014] [Accepted: 08/12/2014] [Indexed: 06/03/2023] Open
Abstract
Monepantel (MPL) is a new anthelmintic agent approved for the treatment of nematode infections in farm animals. As a nematicide, it acts through a nematode-specific nicotinic receptor subtype which explains its exceptional safety in rodents and mammals. In the present study, we evaluated its potential as an anticancer agent. In vitro treatment of epithelial ovarian cancer cells with MPL resulted in reduced cell viability, inhibition of cell proliferation and suppression of colony formation. Proliferation of human ovarian surface epithelial cells and other non-malignant cells were however minimally affected. MPL-induced inhibition was found to be independent of the acetylcholine nicotinic receptor (nAChR) indicating that, its target in cancer cells is probably different from that in nematodes. Analysis of MPL treated cells by flow cytometry revealed G1 phase cell cycle arrest. Accordingly, MPL treated cells expressed reduced levels of cyclins D1 and A whereas cyclin E2 expression was enhanced. Consistent with a G1 phase arrest, cellular levels of cyclin dependent kinases (CDKs) 2 and 4 were lower, whereas expression of CDK inhibitor p27(kip) was increased. In cells expressing the wild-type p53, MPL treatment led to increased p53 expression. In line with these results, MPL suppressed cellular thymidine incorporation thus impairing DNA synthesis and inducing cleavage of poly (ADP-ribose) polymerase (PARP-1). Combined these pre-clinical findings reveal for the first time the anticancer potential of monepantel.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Farnaz Bahrami
- Department of Surgery, Cancer Research Laboratory, University of New South Wales, St George HospitalSydney, New South Wales 2217, Australia
| | - David L Morris
- Department of Surgery, Cancer Research Laboratory, University of New South Wales, St George HospitalSydney, New South Wales 2217, Australia
| | - Lucien Rufener
- Novartis Centre de Recherche Santé AnimaleCH-1566 St Aubin (FR), Switzerland
| | - Mohammad H Pourgholami
- Department of Surgery, Cancer Research Laboratory, St George HospitalSydney, New South Wales 2217, Australia
| |
Collapse
|
10
|
Rufener L, Bedoni N, Baur R, Rey S, Glauser DA, Bouvier J, Beech R, Sigel E, Puoti A. acr-23 Encodes a monepantel-sensitive channel in Caenorhabditis elegans. PLoS Pathog 2013; 9:e1003524. [PMID: 23950710 PMCID: PMC3738477 DOI: 10.1371/journal.ppat.1003524] [Citation(s) in RCA: 32] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/14/2013] [Accepted: 06/12/2013] [Indexed: 11/19/2022] Open
Abstract
Monepantel is a member of the recently identified class of anthelmintics known as the amino-acetonitrile derivatives (AADs). Monepantel controls all major gastro-intestinal nematodes in sheep including those that are resistant to the classical anthelmintics. Previous studies have shown that the Caenorhabditis elegans acr-23 and the Haemonchus contortus Hco-mptl-1 genes may be prominent targets of monepantel. With this discovery it became possible to investigate the mode of action of monepantel in nematodes at the molecular level. In the present study, we show that a C. elegans mutant acr-23 strain is fully rescued by expressing the wild-type acr-23 gene. Moreover, we present a new mutant allele, and characterize acr-23 alleles genetically. We also show that acr-23 is expressed in body wall muscle cells, and provide therefore a possible explanation for the paralysis caused by monepantel. Furthermore, genetic evidence suggests that the chaperone RIC-3 is required for expression of full monepantel resistance. Finally, we present reconstitution of the C. elegans ACR-23 receptor in Xenopus laevis oocytes and provide direct evidence of its modulation by monepantel. Conversely, co-injection of the chaperone RIC-3 had no impact for channel reconstitution in X. laevis oocytes. These results reinforce the involvement of the ACR-23 family in the mode of action of monepantel and advance our understanding of this new class of anthelmintics. Worldwide, sheep and cattle farming are endangered by anthelmintic-resistant gastro-intestinal nematodes. Monepantel, a member of the recently identified class of anthelmintics known as the amino-acetonitrile derivatives (AADs) exhibits excellent efficacy against various species of livestock-pathogenic nematodes and, more importantly, overcomes existing resistances to the currently available anthelmintics. Previous studies conducted with the non-parasitic model nematode Caenorhabditis elegans have found that acr-23 mutants are fully resistant to monepantel. In this study, we confirm the role of acr-23 as a primary target of monepantel by 1) restoring monepantel sensitivity in the presence of extrachromosomal copies of wild-type acr-23, 2) finding that ACR-23 is mainly expressed in muscle cells, and 3) showing that acr-23 forms a monepantel-sensitive channel in Xenopus oocytes.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Lucien Rufener
- Novartis Centre de Recherche Santé Animale, St. Aubin, Switzerland
- Institute of Parasitology, Macdonald College, McGill University, Ste Anne de Bellevue, Quebec, Canada
| | - Nicola Bedoni
- Department of Biology, University of Fribourg, Fribourg, Switzerland
| | - Roland Baur
- Institute for Biochemistry and Molecular Medicine, University of Bern, Bern, Switzerland
| | - Samantha Rey
- Department of Biology, University of Fribourg, Fribourg, Switzerland
| | | | - Jacques Bouvier
- Novartis Centre de Recherche Santé Animale, St. Aubin, Switzerland
| | - Robin Beech
- Institute of Parasitology, Macdonald College, McGill University, Ste Anne de Bellevue, Quebec, Canada
| | - Erwin Sigel
- Institute for Biochemistry and Molecular Medicine, University of Bern, Bern, Switzerland
| | - Alessandro Puoti
- Department of Biology, University of Fribourg, Fribourg, Switzerland
- * E-mail:
| |
Collapse
|
11
|
|
12
|
Rufener L, Keiser J, Kaminsky R, Mäser P, Nilsson D. Phylogenomics of ligand-gated ion channels predicts monepantel effect. PLoS Pathog 2010; 6:e1001091. [PMID: 20838602 PMCID: PMC2936538 DOI: 10.1371/journal.ppat.1001091] [Citation(s) in RCA: 48] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.4] [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: 12/24/2009] [Accepted: 08/06/2010] [Indexed: 01/24/2023] Open
Abstract
The recently launched veterinary anthelmintic drench for sheep (Novartis Animal Health Inc., Switzerland) containing the nematocide monepantel represents a new class of anthelmintics: the amino-acetonitrile derivatives (AADs), much needed in view of widespread resistance to the classical drugs. Recently, it was shown that the ACR-23 protein in Caenorhabditis elegans and a homologous protein, MPTL-1 in Haemonchus contortus, are potential targets for AAD action. Both proteins belong to the DEG-3 subfamily of acetylcholine receptors, which are thought to be nematode-specific, and different from those targeted by the imidazothiazoles (e.g. levamisole). Here we provide further evidence that Cel-ACR-23 and Hco-MPTL-1-like subunits are involved in the monepantel-sensitive phenotype. We performed comparative genomics of ligand-gated ion channel genes from several nematodes and subsequently assessed their sensitivity to anthelmintics. The nematode species in the Caenorhabditis genus, equipped with ACR-23/MPTL-1-like receptor subunits, are sensitive to monepantel (EC50<1.25 µM), whereas the related nematodes Pristionchus pacificus and Strongyloides ratti, which lack an ACR-23/MPTL-1 homolog, are insensitive (EC50>43 µM). Genome sequence information has long been used to identify putative targets for therapeutic intervention. We show how comparative genomics can be applied to predict drug sensitivity when molecular targets of a compound are known or suspected. Increased use of anthelmintics has contributed to the emergence of drug-resistant nematodes, causing serious problems for more than one billion sheep worldwide. The last class of compounds indicated for livestock was introduced 28 years ago. Recently, however, Novartis AH developed a new anthelmintic active against drug-resistant nematodes of sheep, the amino-acetonitrile derivative (AAD) monepantel. We have previously indirectly shown that the AADs have a novel mode of action involving acetylcholine receptor subunits: the ACR-23 protein in Caenorhabditis elegans and a homologous protein, MPTL-1 in Haemonchus contortus. To better understand the mode of action of the AADs, we performed comparative genomics of all ligand-gated ion channel genes from a range of organisms, including members from all nematode clades. We confirmed that MPTL-1 belongs to a unique, nematode-specific sub-family of receptor subunits. We also found that some nematode species lack ACR-23/MPTL-1 and predicted them to be monepantel insensitive. We challenged this hypothesis in a panel of drug tests: several species of Caenorhabditis nematodes equipped with ACR-23/MPTL-1-like receptor subunits were found susceptible to monepantel, whereas Pristionchus pacificus, closely related to these worms but lacking an ACR-23/MPTL-1 homolog, was tolerant. The parasitic nematode Strongyloides ratti, which has only a remote homolog of DES-2 and ACR-23/MPTL-1, was also tolerant to monepantel. This confirms our prediction and highlights how comparative genomic data can be used to predict a drug effect.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Lucien Rufener
- Novartis Centre de Recherche Santé Animale, St. Aubin, Switzerland
- Institute of Cell Biology, University of Bern, Bern, Switzerland
| | - Jennifer Keiser
- Swiss Tropical and Public Health Institute, Basel, Switzerland
- University of Basel, Basel, Switzerland
| | - Ronald Kaminsky
- Novartis Centre de Recherche Santé Animale, St. Aubin, Switzerland
| | - Pascal Mäser
- Swiss Tropical and Public Health Institute, Basel, Switzerland
- University of Basel, Basel, Switzerland
| | - Daniel Nilsson
- Institute of Cell Biology, University of Bern, Bern, Switzerland
- * E-mail:
| |
Collapse
|
13
|
Rufener L, Baur R, Kaminsky R, Mäser P, Sigel E. Monepantel allosterically activates DEG-3/DES-2 channels of the gastrointestinal nematode Haemonchus contortus. Mol Pharmacol 2010; 78:895-902. [PMID: 20679419 DOI: 10.1124/mol.110.066498] [Citation(s) in RCA: 39] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/22/2022] Open
Abstract
Monepantel is the first drug of a new family of anthelmintics, the amino acetonitrile derivatives (AAD), presently used to treat ruminants infected with gastrointestinal nematodes such as Haemonchus contortus. Monepantel shows an excellent tolerability in mammals and is active against multidrug-resistant parasites, indicating that its molecular target is absent or inaccessible in the host and is different from those of the classic anthelmintics. Genetic approaches with mutant nematodes have suggested acetylcholine receptors of the DEG-3 subfamily as the targets of AADs, an enigmatic clade of ligand-gated ion channels that is specific to nematodes and does not occur in mammals. Here we demonstrate direct interaction of monepantel, its major active metabolite monepantel sulfone, and other AADs with potential targets of the DEG-3 subfamily of acetylcholine receptors. H. contortus DEG-3/DES-2 receptors were functionally expressed in Xenopus laevis oocytes and were found to be preferentially activated by choline, to permeate monovalent cations, and to a smaller extent, calcium ions. Although monepantel and monepantel sulfone did not activate the channels by themselves, they substantially enhanced the late currents after activation of the channels with choline, indicating that these AADs are type II positive allosteric modulators of H. contortus DEG-3/DES-2 channels. It is noteworthy that the R-enantiomer of monepantel, which is inactive as an anthelmintic, inhibited the late currents after stimulation of H. contortus DEG-3/DES-2 receptors with choline. In summary, we present the first direct evidence for interaction of AADs with DEG-3-type acetylcholine receptors and discuss these findings in the context of anthelmintic action of AADs.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Lucien Rufener
- Institute of Cell Biology, University of Bern, Bühlstrasse 28, CH-3012 Bern, Switzerland
| | | | | | | | | |
Collapse
|
14
|
Rufener L, Kaminsky R, Mäser P. In vitro selection of Haemonchus contortus for benzimidazole resistance reveals a mutation at amino acid 198 of β-tubulin. Mol Biochem Parasitol 2009; 168:120-2. [DOI: 10.1016/j.molbiopara.2009.07.002] [Citation(s) in RCA: 42] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/30/2009] [Revised: 07/06/2009] [Accepted: 07/07/2009] [Indexed: 10/20/2022]
|
15
|
Rufener L, Mäser P, Roditi I, Kaminsky R. Haemonchus contortus acetylcholine receptors of the DEG-3 subfamily and their role in sensitivity to monepantel. PLoS Pathog 2009; 5:e1000380. [PMID: 19360096 PMCID: PMC2662886 DOI: 10.1371/journal.ppat.1000380] [Citation(s) in RCA: 92] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.1] [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: 09/10/2008] [Accepted: 03/16/2009] [Indexed: 11/27/2022] Open
Abstract
Gastro-intestinal nematodes in ruminants, especially Haemonchus contortus, are a global threat to sheep and cattle farming. The emergence of drug resistance, and even multi-drug resistance to the currently available classes of broad spectrum anthelmintics, further stresses the need for new drugs active against gastro-intestinal nematodes. A novel chemical class of synthetic anthelmintics, the Amino-Acetonitrile Derivatives (AADs), was recently discovered and the drug candidate AAD-1566 (monepantel) was chosen for further development. Studies with Caenorhabditis elegans suggested that the AADs act via nicotinic acetylcholine receptors (nAChR) of the nematode-specific DEG-3 subfamily. Here we identify nAChR genes of the DEG-3 subfamily from H. contortus and investigate their role in AAD sensitivity. Using a novel in vitro selection procedure, mutant H. contortus populations of reduced sensitivity to AAD-1566 were obtained. Sequencing of full-length nAChR coding sequences from AAD-susceptible H. contortus and their AAD-1566-mutant progeny revealed 2 genes to be affected. In the gene monepantel-1 (Hco-mptl-1, formerly named Hc-acr-23H), a panel of mutations was observed exclusively in the AAD-mutant nematodes, including deletions at intron-exon boundaries that result in mis-spliced transcripts and premature stop codons. In the gene Hco-des-2H, the same 135 bp insertion in the 5′ UTR created additional, out of frame start codons in 2 independent H. contortus AAD-mutants. Furthermore, the AAD mutants exhibited altered expression levels of the DEG-3 subfamily nAChR genes Hco-mptl-1, Hco-des-2H and Hco-deg-3H as quantified by real-time PCR. These results indicate that Hco-MPTL-1 and other nAChR subunits of the DEG-3 subfamily constitute a target for AAD action against H. contortus and that loss-of-function mutations in the corresponding genes may reduce the sensitivity to AADs. Worldwide, sheep and cattle farming are threatened by anthelmintic-resistant gastro-intestinal nematodes. A novel chemical class of synthetic anthelmintics was recently discovered, the Amino-Acetonitrile Derivatives (AADs), which exhibit excellent efficacy against various species of livestock-pathogenic nematodes and, more importantly, overcome existing resistances to the currently available anthelmintics. Haemonchus contortus, the largest nematode found in the abomasum of sheep and cattle, is a blood-feeding parasite that causes severe anemia that can lead to the sudden death of the infected animal; H. contortus is highly susceptible to AADs. In order to elucidate the mode of action of the AADs, we have developed 2 independent H. contortus mutants with reduced sensitivity to monepantel (AAD-1566). Both mutants were affected in their acetylcholine receptor (ACR) genes of the DEG-3 subfamily. In particular, we discovered a panel of mutations in the gene monepantel-1 (Hco-mptl-1) including deletions leading to mis-splicing, insertions and point mutations leading to premature termination of translation of the protein. These findings support the notion that Hco-MPTL-1 and other nAChR subunits of the DEG-3 subfamily are targets of the AADs. The fact that the DEG-3 subfamily of acetylcholine receptors is nematode-specific may explain the good therapeutic index of AADs in mammals.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Lucien Rufener
- Novartis Centre de Recherche Santé Animale, St. Aubin (FR), Switzerland
- Institute of Cell Biology, University of Bern, Switzerland
| | - Pascal Mäser
- Institute of Cell Biology, University of Bern, Switzerland
- * E-mail:
| | - Isabel Roditi
- Institute of Cell Biology, University of Bern, Switzerland
| | - Ronald Kaminsky
- Novartis Centre de Recherche Santé Animale, St. Aubin (FR), Switzerland
| |
Collapse
|
16
|
Kaminsky R, Ducray P, Jung M, Clover R, Rufener L, Bouvier J, Weber SS, Wenger A, Wieland-Berghausen S, Goebel T, Gauvry N, Pautrat F, Skripsky T, Froelich O, Komoin-Oka C, Westlund B, Sluder A, Mäser P. A new class of anthelmintics effective against drug-resistant nematodes. Nature 2008; 452:176-80. [PMID: 18337814 DOI: 10.1038/nature06722] [Citation(s) in RCA: 335] [Impact Index Per Article: 20.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/08/2007] [Accepted: 01/15/2008] [Indexed: 11/09/2022]
Abstract
Anthelmintic resistance in human and animal pathogenic helminths has been spreading in prevalence and severity to a point where multidrug resistance against the three major classes of anthelmintics--the benzimidazoles, imidazothiazoles and macrocyclic lactones--has become a global phenomenon in gastrointestinal nematodes of farm animals. Hence, there is an urgent need for an anthelmintic with a new mode of action. Here we report the discovery of the amino-acetonitrile derivatives (AADs) as a new chemical class of synthetic anthelmintics and describe the development of drug candidates that are efficacious against various species of livestock-pathogenic nematodes. These drug candidates seem to have a novel mode of action involving a unique, nematode-specific clade of acetylcholine receptor subunits. The AADs are well tolerated and of low toxicity to mammals, and overcome existing resistances to the currently available anthelmintics.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Ronald Kaminsky
- Novartis Centre de Recherche Santé Animale, CH-1566 St Aubin (FR), Switzerland.
| | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | |
Collapse
|