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Trotta MC, Gesualdo C, Lepre CC, Russo M, Ferraraccio F, Panarese I, Marano E, Grieco P, Petrillo F, Hermenean A, Simonelli F, D’Amico M, Bucolo C, Lazzara F, De Nigris F, Rossi S, Platania CBM. Ocular pharmacological and biochemical profiles of 6-thioguanine: a drug repurposing study. Front Pharmacol 2024; 15:1375805. [PMID: 38590636 PMCID: PMC10999531 DOI: 10.3389/fphar.2024.1375805] [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] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/24/2024] [Accepted: 02/29/2024] [Indexed: 04/10/2024] Open
Abstract
Introduction The purine analog 6-thioguanine (6TG), an old drug approved in the 60s to treat acute myeloid leukemia (AML), was tested in the diabetic retinopathy (DR) experimental in vivo setting along with a molecular modeling approach. Methods A computational analysis was performed to investigate the interaction of 6TG with MC1R and MC5R. This was confirmed in human umbilical vein endothelial cells (HUVECs) exposed to high glucose (25 mM) for 24 h. Cell viability in HUVECs exposed to high glucose and treated with 6TG (0.05-0.5-5 µM) was performed. To assess tube formation, HUVECs were treated for 24 h with 6TG 5 µM and AGRP (0.5-1-5 µM) or PG20N (0.5-1-5-10 µM), which are MC1R and MC5R antagonists, respectively. For the in vivo DR setting, diabetes was induced in C57BL/6J mice through a single streptozotocin (STZ) injection. After 2, 6, and 10 weeks, diabetic and control mice received 6TG intravitreally (0.5-1-2.5 mg/kg) alone or in combination with AGRP or PG20N. Fluorescein angiography (FA) was performed after 4 and 14 weeks after the onset of diabetes. After 14 weeks, mice were euthanized, and immunohistochemical analysis was performed to assess retinal levels of CD34, a marker of endothelial progenitor cell formation during neo-angiogenesis. Results The computational analysis evidenced a more stable binding of 6TG binding at MC5R than MC1R. This was confirmed by the tube formation assay in HUVECs exposed to high glucose. Indeed, the anti-angiogenic activity of 6TG was eradicated by a higher dose of the MC5R antagonist PG20N (10 µM) compared to the MC1R antagonist AGRP (5 µM). The retinal anti-angiogenic effect of 6TG was evident also in diabetic mice, showing a reduction in retinal vascular alterations by FA analysis. This effect was not observed in diabetic mice receiving 6TG in combination with AGRP or PG20N. Accordingly, retinal CD34 staining was reduced in diabetic mice treated with 6TG. Conversely, it was not decreased in diabetic mice receiving 6TG combined with AGRP or PG20N. Conclusion 6TG evidenced a marked anti-angiogenic activity in HUVECs exposed to high glucose and in mice with DR. This seems to be mediated by MC1R and MC5R retinal receptors.
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Affiliation(s)
- Maria Consiglia Trotta
- Department of Experimental Medicine, University of Campania “Luigi Vanvitelli”, Naples, Italy
| | - Carlo Gesualdo
- Multidisciplinary Department of Medical, Surgical and Dental Sciences, University of Campania “Luigi Vanvitelli”, Naples, Italy
| | - Caterina Claudia Lepre
- Department of Experimental Medicine, University of Campania “Luigi Vanvitelli”, Naples, Italy
| | - Marina Russo
- Department of Experimental Medicine, University of Campania “Luigi Vanvitelli”, Naples, Italy
- Department of Mental, Physical Health and Preventive Medicine, University of Campania “Luigi Vanvitelli”, Naples, Italy
| | - Franca Ferraraccio
- Department of Mental, Physical Health and Preventive Medicine, University of Campania “Luigi Vanvitelli”, Naples, Italy
| | - Iacopo Panarese
- Department of Mental, Physical Health and Preventive Medicine, University of Campania “Luigi Vanvitelli”, Naples, Italy
| | - Ernesto Marano
- Multidisciplinary Department of Medical, Surgical and Dental Sciences, University of Campania “Luigi Vanvitelli”, Naples, Italy
| | - Paolo Grieco
- Department of Pharmacy, University of Naples “Federico II”, Naples, Italy
| | - Francesco Petrillo
- Department of Experimental Medicine, University of Campania “Luigi Vanvitelli”, Naples, Italy
- Department of Mental, Physical Health and Preventive Medicine, University of Campania “Luigi Vanvitelli”, Naples, Italy
| | - Anca Hermenean
- “Aurel Ardelean” Institute of Life Sciences, Vasile Goldis Western University of Arad, Arad, Romania
| | - Francesca Simonelli
- Multidisciplinary Department of Medical, Surgical and Dental Sciences, University of Campania “Luigi Vanvitelli”, Naples, Italy
| | - Michele D’Amico
- Department of Experimental Medicine, University of Campania “Luigi Vanvitelli”, Naples, Italy
| | - Claudio Bucolo
- Department of Biomedical and Biotechnological Sciences, School of Medicine, University of Catania, Catania, Italy
| | - Francesca Lazzara
- Department of Biomedical and Biotechnological Sciences, School of Medicine, University of Catania, Catania, Italy
| | - Filomena De Nigris
- Department of Precision Medicine, University of Campania “Luigi Vanvitelli”, Naples, Italy
| | - Settimio Rossi
- Multidisciplinary Department of Medical, Surgical and Dental Sciences, University of Campania “Luigi Vanvitelli”, Naples, Italy
| | - Chiara Bianca Maria Platania
- Department of Biomedical and Biotechnological Sciences, School of Medicine, University of Catania, Catania, Italy
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Gravina AG, Panarese I, Trotta MC, D'Amico M, Pellegrino R, Ferraraccio F, Galdiero M, Alfano R, Grieco P, Federico A. Melanocortin 3,5 receptors immunohistochemical expression in colonic mucosa of inflammatory bowel disease patients: A matter of disease activity? World J Gastroenterol 2024; 30:1132-1142. [PMID: 38577176 PMCID: PMC10989484 DOI: 10.3748/wjg.v30.i9.1132] [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] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/21/2023] [Revised: 01/15/2024] [Accepted: 02/08/2024] [Indexed: 03/06/2024] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Melanocortin 3 and 5 receptors (i.e., MC3R and MC5R) belong to the melanocortin family. However, data regarding their role in inflammatory bowel diseases (IBD) are currently unavailable. AIM This study aims to ascertain their expression profiles in the colonic mucosa of Crohn's disease (CD) and ulcerative colitis (UC), aligning them with IBD disease endoscopic and histologic activity. METHODS Colonic mucosal biopsies from CD/UC patients were sampled, and immunohistochemical analyses were conducted to evaluate the expression of MC3R and MC5R. Colonic sampling was performed on both traits with endoscopic scores (Mayo endoscopic score and CD endoscopic index of severity) consistent with inflamed mucosa and not consistent with disease activity (i.e., normal appearing mucosa). RESULTS In both CD and UC inflamed mucosa, MC3R (CD: + 7.7 fold vs normal mucosa, P < 0.01; UC: + 12 fold vs normal mucosa, P < 0.01) and MC5R (CD: + 5.5 fold vs normal mucosa, P < 0.01; UC: + 8.1 fold vs normal mucosa, P < 0.01) were significantly more expressed compared to normal mucosa. CONCLUSION MC3R and MC5R are expressed in the colon of IBD patients. Furthermore, expression may differ according to disease endoscopic activity, with a higher degree of expression in the traits affected by disease activity in both CD and UC, suggesting a potential use of these receptors in IBD pharmacology.
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Affiliation(s)
- Antonietta Gerarda Gravina
- Hepatogastroenterology Division, Department of Precision Medicine, University of Campania Luigi Vanvitelli, Naples 80138, Italy
| | - Iacopo Panarese
- Pathology Division, Department of Mental and Physical Health and Preventive Medicine, University of Campania Luigi Vanvitelli, Naples 80138, Italy
| | - Maria Consiglia Trotta
- Department of Experimental Medicine, Division of Pharmacology, University of Campania Luigi Vanvitelli, Naples 80138, Italy
| | - Michele D'Amico
- Department of Experimental Medicine, Division of Pharmacology, University of Campania Luigi Vanvitelli, Naples 80138, Italy
| | - Raffaele Pellegrino
- Hepatogastroenterology Division, Department of Precision Medicine, University of Campania Luigi Vanvitelli, Naples 80138, Italy
| | - Franca Ferraraccio
- Pathology Division, Department of Mental and Physical Health and Preventive Medicine, University of Campania Luigi Vanvitelli, Naples 80138, Italy
| | - Marilena Galdiero
- Department of Experimental Medicine, Division of Pharmacology, University of Campania Luigi Vanvitelli, Naples 80138, Italy
| | - Roberto Alfano
- Department of Advanced Medical and Surgical Sciences (DAMSS), University of Campania Luigi Vanvitelli, Naples 80138, Italy
| | - Paolo Grieco
- Department of Pharmacy, University of Naples Federico II, Naples 80131, Italy
| | - Alessandro Federico
- Hepatogastroenterology Division, Department of Precision Medicine, University of Campania Luigi Vanvitelli, Naples 80138, Italy
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Grasso N, Graziano R, Marzano S, D'Aria F, Merlino F, Grieco P, Randazzo A, Pagano B, Amato J. Unveiling the interaction between DNA G-quadruplexes and RG-rich peptides. Int J Biol Macromol 2023; 253:126749. [PMID: 37689293 DOI: 10.1016/j.ijbiomac.2023.126749] [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] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/05/2023] [Revised: 08/28/2023] [Accepted: 08/31/2023] [Indexed: 09/11/2023]
Abstract
G-quadruplexes are non-canonical DNA secondary structures formed within guanine-rich strands that play important roles in various biological processes, including gene regulation, telomere maintenance and DNA replication. The biological functions and formation of these DNA structures are strictly controlled by several proteins that bind and stabilize or resolve them. Many G-quadruplex-binding proteins feature an arginine and glycine-rich motif known as the RGG or RG-rich motif. Although this motif plays a crucial role in the recognition of such non-canonical structures, their interaction is still poorly understood. Here, we employed a combination of several biophysical techniques to provide valuable insights into the interaction between a peptide containing an RGG motif shared by numerous human G-quadruplex-binding proteins (NIQI) and various biologically relevant G-quadruplex DNA structures with different topologies. We also shed light on the key amino acids involved in the binding process. Our findings contribute to lay the basis for the development of a new class of peptide-based G-quadruplex ligands as an alternative to small molecules. These ligands may serve as valid tools for interfering in DNA-protein interactions, with potential therapeutic applications.
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Affiliation(s)
- Nicola Grasso
- Department of Pharmacy, University of Naples Federico II, 80131 Naples, Italy
| | - Raffaele Graziano
- Department of Pharmacy, University of Naples Federico II, 80131 Naples, Italy
| | - Simona Marzano
- Department of Pharmacy, University of Naples Federico II, 80131 Naples, Italy
| | - Federica D'Aria
- Department of Pharmacy, University of Naples Federico II, 80131 Naples, Italy
| | - Francesco Merlino
- Department of Pharmacy, University of Naples Federico II, 80131 Naples, Italy
| | - Paolo Grieco
- Department of Pharmacy, University of Naples Federico II, 80131 Naples, Italy
| | - Antonio Randazzo
- Department of Pharmacy, University of Naples Federico II, 80131 Naples, Italy
| | - Bruno Pagano
- Department of Pharmacy, University of Naples Federico II, 80131 Naples, Italy.
| | - Jussara Amato
- Department of Pharmacy, University of Naples Federico II, 80131 Naples, Italy.
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Bellavita R, Falanga A, Merlino F, D'Auria G, Molfetta N, Saviano A, Maione F, Galdiero U, Catania MR, Galdiero S, Grieco P, Roscetto E, Falcigno L, Buommino E. Unveiling the mechanism of action of acylated temporin L analogues against multidrug-resistant Candida albicans. J Enzyme Inhib Med Chem 2023; 38:36-50. [PMID: 36305289 PMCID: PMC9621209 DOI: 10.1080/14756366.2022.2134359] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/31/2022] Open
Abstract
The increasing resistance of fungi to conventional antifungal drugs has prompted worldwide the search for new compounds. In this work, we investigated the antifungal properties of acylated Temporin L derivatives, Pent-1B and Dec-1B, against Candida albicans, including the multidrug-resistant strains. Acylated peptides resulted to be active both on reference and clinical strains with MIC values ranging from 6.5 to 26 µM, and they did not show cytotoxicity on human keratinocytes. In addition, we also observed a synergistic or additive effect with voriconazole for peptides Dec-1B and Pent-1B through the checkerboard assay on voriconazole-resistant Candida strains. Moreover, fluorescence-based assays, NMR spectroscopy, and confocal microscopy elucidated a potential membrane-active mechanism, consisting of an initial electrostatic interaction of acylated peptides with fungal membrane, followed by aggregation and insertion into the lipid bilayer and causing membrane perturbation probably through a carpeting effect.
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Affiliation(s)
- Rosa Bellavita
- Department of Pharmacy, University of Naples "Federico II", Naples, Italy
| | - Annarita Falanga
- Department of Agricultural Science, University of Naples "Federico II", Portici, Italy
| | - Francesco Merlino
- Department of Pharmacy, University of Naples "Federico II", Naples, Italy
| | - Gabriella D'Auria
- Department of Pharmacy, University of Naples "Federico II", Naples, Italy
| | - Nicola Molfetta
- Department of Pharmacy, University of Naples "Federico II", Naples, Italy
| | - Anella Saviano
- Department of Pharmacy, University of Naples "Federico II", Naples, Italy
| | - Francesco Maione
- Department of Pharmacy, University of Naples "Federico II", Naples, Italy
| | - Umberto Galdiero
- Department of Molecular Medicine and Medical Biotechnology, University of Naples Federico II, Naples, Italy
| | - Maria Rosaria Catania
- Department of Molecular Medicine and Medical Biotechnology, University of Naples Federico II, Naples, Italy
| | - Stefania Galdiero
- Department of Pharmacy, University of Naples "Federico II", Naples, Italy
| | - Paolo Grieco
- Department of Pharmacy, University of Naples "Federico II", Naples, Italy
| | - Emanuela Roscetto
- Department of Molecular Medicine and Medical Biotechnology, University of Naples Federico II, Naples, Italy
| | - Lucia Falcigno
- Department of Pharmacy, University of Naples "Federico II", Naples, Italy
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Saviano A, Manosour AA, Raucci F, Merlino F, Marigliano N, Schettino A, Wahid M, Begum J, Filer A, Manning JE, Casillo GM, Piccolo M, Ferraro MG, Marzano S, Russomanno P, Bellavita R, Irace C, Amato J, Alfaifi M, Rimmer P, Iqbal T, Pieretti S, Vellecco V, Caso F, Costa L, Giacomelli R, Scarpa R, Cirino G, Bucci M, McGettrick HM, Grieco P, Iqbal AJ, Maione F. New biologic (Ab-IPL-IL-17) for IL-17-mediated diseases: identification of the bioactive sequence (nIL-17) for IL-17A/F function. Ann Rheum Dis 2023; 82:1415-1428. [PMID: 37580108 PMCID: PMC10579190 DOI: 10.1136/ard-2023-224479] [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] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/25/2023] [Accepted: 07/07/2023] [Indexed: 08/16/2023]
Abstract
OBJECTIVES Interleukin (IL) 17s cytokines are key drivers of inflammation that are functionally dysregulated in several human immune-mediated inflammatory diseases (IMIDs), such as rheumatoid arthritis (RA), psoriasis and inflammatory bowel disease (IBD). Targeting these cytokines has some therapeutic benefits, but issues associated with low therapeutic efficacy and immunogenicity for subgroups of patients or IMIDs reduce their clinical use. Therefore, there is an urgent need to improve the coverage and efficacy of antibodies targeting IL-17A and/or IL-17F and IL-17A/F heterodimer. METHODS AND RESULTS Here, we initially identified a bioactive 20 amino acid IL-17A/F-derived peptide (nIL-17) that mimics the pro-inflammatory actions of the full-length proteins. Subsequently, we generated a novel anti-IL-17 neutralising monoclonal antibody (Ab-IPL-IL-17) capable of effectively reversing the pro-inflammatory, pro-migratory actions of both nIL-17 and IL-17A/F. Importantly, we demonstrated that Ab-IPL-IL-17 has less off-target effects than the current gold-standard biologic, secukinumab. Finally, we compared the therapeutic efficacy of Ab-IPL-IL-17 with reference anti-IL-17 antibodies in preclinical murine models and samples from patients with RA and IBD. We found that Ab-IPL-IL-17 could effectively reduce clinical signs of arthritis and neutralise elevated IL-17 levels in IBD patient serum. CONCLUSIONS Collectively, our preclinical and in vitro clinical evidence indicates high efficacy and therapeutic potency of Ab-IPL-IL-17, supporting the rationale for large-scale clinical evaluation of Ab-IPL-IL-17 in patients with IMIDs.
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Affiliation(s)
- Anella Saviano
- ImmunoPharmaLab, Department of Pharmacy, School of Medicine and Surgery, University of Naples Federico II, Napoli, Italy
| | - Adel Abo Manosour
- Department of Clinical Laboratory Sciences, College of Applied Medical Sciences, King Khalid University, Abha, Saudi Arabia
| | - Federica Raucci
- ImmunoPharmaLab, Department of Pharmacy, School of Medicine and Surgery, University of Naples Federico II, Napoli, Italy
| | - Francesco Merlino
- Department of Pharmacy, University of Naples Federico II, Napoli, Italy
| | - Noemi Marigliano
- ImmunoPharmaLab, Department of Pharmacy, School of Medicine and Surgery, University of Naples Federico II, Napoli, Italy
| | - Anna Schettino
- ImmunoPharmaLab, Department of Pharmacy, School of Medicine and Surgery, University of Naples Federico II, Napoli, Italy
| | - Mussarat Wahid
- Institute of Inflammation and Ageing, College of Medical and Dental Sciences, University of Birmingham, Birmingham, UK
| | - Jenefa Begum
- Institute of Cardiovascular Sciences, College of Medical and Dental Sciences, University of Birmingham, Birmingham, UK
| | - Andrew Filer
- Institute of Inflammation and Ageing, College of Medical and Dental Sciences, University of Birmingham, Birmingham, UK
| | - Julia E Manning
- Institute of Inflammation and Ageing, College of Medical and Dental Sciences, University of Birmingham, Birmingham, UK
| | | | - Marialuisa Piccolo
- BioChemLab, Department of Pharmacy, University of Naples Federico II, Napoli, Italy
| | - Maria Grazia Ferraro
- BioChemLab, Department of Pharmacy, University of Naples Federico II, Napoli, Italy
| | - Simona Marzano
- Department of Pharmacy, University of Naples Federico II, Napoli, Italy
| | | | - Rosa Bellavita
- Department of Pharmacy, University of Naples Federico II, Napoli, Italy
| | - Carlo Irace
- BioChemLab, Department of Pharmacy, University of Naples Federico II, Napoli, Italy
| | - Jussara Amato
- Department of Pharmacy, University of Naples Federico II, Napoli, Italy
| | - Mohammed Alfaifi
- Department of Clinical Laboratory Sciences, College of Applied Medical Sciences, King Khalid University, Abha, Saudi Arabia
| | - Peter Rimmer
- Institute of Cardiovascular Sciences, College of Medical and Dental Sciences, University of Birmingham, Birmingham, UK
- Department of Gastroenterology, Queen Elizabeth Hospital Birmingham, Birmingham, UK
| | - Tariq Iqbal
- Department of Gastroenterology, Queen Elizabeth Hospital Birmingham, Birmingham, UK
- Institute of Microbiology and Infection, College of Medical and Dental Sciences, University of Birmingham, Birmingham, UK
| | - Stefano Pieretti
- Department of Drug Research and Evaluation, Istituto Superiore di Sanità, Roma, Italy
| | | | - Francesco Caso
- Department of Clinical Medicine and Surgery, University of Naples Federico II, Napoli, Italy
| | - Luisa Costa
- Department of Clinical Medicine and Surgery, University of Naples Federico II, Napoli, Italy
| | - Roberto Giacomelli
- Fondazione Policlinico Universitario, and Research Unit of Immuno-Rheumatology, Department of Medicine and Surgery, Campus Bio-Medico University, Via Alvaro del Portillo, 200, 00128 Roma, Italy, and Università Campus Bio-Medico di Roma, Via Alvaro del Portillo, 21, 00128 Roma, Italy, Roma, Italy
| | - Raffaele Scarpa
- Department of Clinical Medicine and Surgery, University of Naples Federico II, Napoli, Italy
| | - Giuseppe Cirino
- Department of Pharmacy, University of Naples Federico II, Napoli, Italy
| | | | - Helen M McGettrick
- Institute of Inflammation and Ageing, College of Medical and Dental Sciences, University of Birmingham, Birmingham, UK
| | - Paolo Grieco
- Department of Pharmacy, University of Naples Federico II, Napoli, Italy
| | - Asif Jilani Iqbal
- Department of Cardiovascular Sciences, College of Medical and Dental Sciences, University of Birmingham, Birmingham, UK
| | - Francesco Maione
- ImmunoPharmaLab, Department of Pharmacy, School of Medicine and Surgery, University of Naples Federico II, Napoli, Italy
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Ottani A, Galantucci M, Ardimento E, Neri L, Canalini F, Calevro A, Zaffe D, Novellino E, Grieco P, Giuliani D, Guarini S. Corrigendum to "Modulation of the JAK/ERK/STAT signaling in melanocortin -induced inhibition of local and systemic responses to myocardial ischemia/reperfusion [Pharmacological Research 72 (2013) 1-8]. Pharmacol Res 2023; 194:106852. [PMID: 37455148 DOI: 10.1016/j.phrs.2023.106852] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 07/18/2023]
Affiliation(s)
- Alessandra Ottani
- Department of Biomedical, Metabolic and Neural Sciences, Section of Pharmacology and Molecular Medicine, University of Modena and Reggio Emilia, Modena, Italy.
| | - Maria Galantucci
- Department of Biomedical, Metabolic and Neural Sciences, Section of Pharmacology and Molecular Medicine, University of Modena and Reggio Emilia, Modena, Italy
| | - Ettore Ardimento
- Department of Biomedical, Metabolic and Neural Sciences, Section of Pharmacology and Molecular Medicine, University of Modena and Reggio Emilia, Modena, Italy
| | - Laura Neri
- Department of Biomedical, Metabolic and Neural Sciences, Section of Pharmacology and Molecular Medicine, University of Modena and Reggio Emilia, Modena, Italy
| | - Fabrizio Canalini
- Department of Biomedical, Metabolic and Neural Sciences, Section of Pharmacology and Molecular Medicine, University of Modena and Reggio Emilia, Modena, Italy
| | - Anita Calevro
- Department of Biomedical, Metabolic and Neural Sciences, Section of Pharmacology and Molecular Medicine, University of Modena and Reggio Emilia, Modena, Italy
| | - Davide Zaffe
- Department of Biomedical, Metabolic and Neural Sciences, Section of Human Morphology, University of Modena and Reggio Emilia, Modena, Italy
| | - Ettore Novellino
- Department of Pharmacy, University of Napoli "Federico II", Napoli, Italy
| | - Paolo Grieco
- Department of Pharmacy, University of Napoli "Federico II", Napoli, Italy
| | - Daniela Giuliani
- Department of Biomedical, Metabolic and Neural Sciences, Section of Pharmacology and Molecular Medicine, University of Modena and Reggio Emilia, Modena, Italy
| | - Salvatore Guarini
- Department of Biomedical, Metabolic and Neural Sciences, Section of Pharmacology and Molecular Medicine, University of Modena and Reggio Emilia, Modena, Italy
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Gravina AG, Dallio M, Romeo M, Pellegrino R, Stiuso P, Lama S, Grieco P, Merlino F, Panarese I, Marino FZ, Sangineto M, Romano M, Federico A. The urotensin-II receptor: A marker for staging and steroid outcome prediction in ulcerative colitis. Eur J Clin Invest 2023; 53:e13972. [PMID: 36807243 DOI: 10.1111/eci.13972] [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] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/22/2022] [Revised: 01/23/2023] [Accepted: 02/13/2023] [Indexed: 02/20/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Urotensin-II receptor- (UTR) related pathway exerts a key-role in promoting inflammation. The aim was to assess the relationship between UTR expression and clinical, endoscopic and biochemical severity of ulcerative colitis (UC), exploring its predictivity of intravenous (iv) steroid administration therapeutic outcome. METHODS One-hundred patients with first diagnosis of UC and 44 healthy subjects were enrolled. UTR expression was assessed by qPCR, Western Blot (WB) and immunohistochemistry (IHC). Clinical, endoscopic and histological activity of UC were evaluated by using Truelove and Witts (T&W) severity index, Mayo Endoscopic Score (MES), and Truelove and Richards Index (TRI). The partial and full Mayo scores (PMS and FMS) were assessed to stage the disease. RESULTS The UTR expression, resulted higher in the lesioned mucosa of UC patients in comparison to healthy subjects (p < .0001 all). Direct relationship between UTR (mRNA and protein) expression and disease severity assessment (T&W, PMS, MES and TRI) was highlighted (p < .0001 all). UTR expression resulted also higher in the 72 patients requiring iv steroids administration compared to those who underwent alternative medications, (p < .0001). The 32 steroid-non-responders showed an increased UTR expression (WB, IHC and qPCR from lesioned mucosa), compared to 40 steroid-responders (p: .0002, .0001, p < .0001 respectively). The predictive role of UTR expression (p < .05) on the negative iv steroids administration therapeutic outcome was highlighted and ROC curves identified the thresholds expressing the better predictive performance. CONCLUSIONS UTR represents a promising inflammatory marker related to clinical, endoscopic, and histological disease activity as well as a predictive marker of steroid administration therapeutic outcome in the UC context.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Marcello Dallio
- Department of Precision Medicine, University of Campania "Luigi Vanvitelli", Naples, Italy
| | - Mario Romeo
- Department of Precision Medicine, University of Campania "Luigi Vanvitelli", Naples, Italy
| | - Raffaele Pellegrino
- Department of Precision Medicine, University of Campania "Luigi Vanvitelli", Naples, Italy
| | - Paola Stiuso
- Department of Precision Medicine, University of Campania "Luigi Vanvitelli", Naples, Italy
| | - Stefania Lama
- Department of Precision Medicine, University of Campania "Luigi Vanvitelli", Naples, Italy
| | - Paolo Grieco
- Department of Pharmacy, University of Naples "Federico II", Naples, Italy
| | - Francesco Merlino
- Department of Pharmacy, University of Naples "Federico II", Naples, Italy
| | - Iacopo Panarese
- Pathology Unit, Department of Mental and Physical Health and Preventive Medicine, University of Campania "Luigi Vanvitelli", Naples, Italy
| | - Federica Zito Marino
- Pathology Unit, Department of Mental and Physical Health and Preventive Medicine, University of Campania "Luigi Vanvitelli", Naples, Italy
| | - Moris Sangineto
- University Center for Research and Treatment of Liver Diseases (C.U.R.E.), Liver Unit, University of Foggia, Foggia, Italy
| | - Marco Romano
- Department of Precision Medicine, University of Campania "Luigi Vanvitelli", Naples, Italy
| | - Alessandro Federico
- Department of Precision Medicine, University of Campania "Luigi Vanvitelli", Naples, Italy
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8
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Bellavita R, Leone L, Maione A, Falcigno L, D'Auria G, Merlino F, Grieco P, Nastri F, Galdiero E, Lombardi A, Galdiero S, Falanga A. Synthesis of temporin L hydroxamate-based peptides and evaluation of their coordination properties with iron(III ). Dalton Trans 2023; 52:3954-3963. [PMID: 36744636 DOI: 10.1039/d2dt04099a] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/26/2023]
Abstract
Ferric iron is an essential nutrient for bacterial growth. Pathogenic bacteria synthesize iron-chelating entities known as siderophores to sequestrate ferric iron from host organisms in order to colonize and replicate. The development of antimicrobial peptides (AMPs) conjugated to iron chelators represents a promising strategy for reducing the iron availability, inducing bacterial death, and enhancing simultaneously the efficacy of AMPs. Here we designed, synthesized, and characterized three hydroxamate-based peptides Pep-cyc1, Pep-cyc2, and Pep-cyc3, derived from a cyclic temporin L peptide (Pep-cyc) developed previously by some of us. The Fe3+ complex formation of each ligand was characterized by UV-visible spectroscopy, mass spectrometry, and IR and NMR spectroscopies. In addition, the effect of Fe3+ on the stabilization of the α-helix conformation of hydroxamate-based peptides and the cotton effect were examined by CD spectroscopy. Moreover, the antimicrobial results obtained in vitro on some Gram-negative strains (K. pneumoniae and E. coli) showed the ability of each peptide to chelate efficaciously Fe3+ obtaining a reduction of MIC values in comparison to their parent peptide Pep-cyc. Our results demonstrated that siderophore conjugation could increase the efficacy and selectivity of AMPs used for the treatment of infectious diseases caused by Gram-negative pathogens.
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Affiliation(s)
- Rosa Bellavita
- Department of Pharmacy, University of Naples "Federico II", Via Domenico Montesano 49, 80138 Naples, Italy.
| | - Linda Leone
- Department of Chemical Sciences, University of Napoli "Federico II", Napoli, Italy
| | - Angela Maione
- Department of Biology, University of Naples Federico II, Via Cinthia, 80126 Naples, Italy
| | - Lucia Falcigno
- Department of Pharmacy, University of Naples "Federico II", Via Domenico Montesano 49, 80138 Naples, Italy.
| | - Gabriella D'Auria
- Department of Pharmacy, University of Naples "Federico II", Via Domenico Montesano 49, 80138 Naples, Italy.
| | - Francesco Merlino
- Department of Pharmacy, University of Naples "Federico II", Via Domenico Montesano 49, 80138 Naples, Italy.
| | - Paolo Grieco
- Department of Pharmacy, University of Naples "Federico II", Via Domenico Montesano 49, 80138 Naples, Italy.
| | - Flavia Nastri
- Department of Chemical Sciences, University of Napoli "Federico II", Napoli, Italy
| | - Emilia Galdiero
- Department of Biology, University of Naples Federico II, Via Cinthia, 80126 Naples, Italy
| | - Angela Lombardi
- Department of Chemical Sciences, University of Napoli "Federico II", Napoli, Italy
| | - Stefania Galdiero
- Department of Pharmacy, University of Naples "Federico II", Via Domenico Montesano 49, 80138 Naples, Italy.
| | - Annarita Falanga
- Department of Agricultural Sciences, University of Naples "Federico II", via Università 100, 80055, Portici, Italy.
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9
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Crocetto F, Risolo R, Colapietro R, Bellavita R, Barone B, Ballini A, Arrigoni R, Francesco Caputo V, Luca G, Grieco P, Santini G, Brancorsini S. Heavy Metal Pollution and Male Fertility: An Overview on Adverse Biological Effects and Socio-Economic Implications. Endocr Metab Immune Disord Drug Targets 2023; 23:129-146. [PMID: 35761486 DOI: 10.2174/1871530322666220627141651] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/19/2021] [Revised: 02/14/2022] [Accepted: 02/24/2022] [Indexed: 11/22/2022]
Abstract
Trace metals can be divided into two subgroups considering their pathophysiological effects: the first consists of microelements essential for life (arsenic, cobalt, chromium, copper, fluorine, iron, iodine, manganese, molybdenum, nickel, selenium, silicon, tin, vanadium and zinc), implicated in important metabolic processes; the second includes toxic microelements, such as cadmium (Cd), mercury (Hg), chromium (Cr), and lead (Pb) for living organisms, even at low concentrations. These metals contribute to serious consequences for human health, including male infertility. Studies performed in several in vitro and in vivo models revealed that environmental exposure to toxic pollutants, as heavy metals, negatively affects human male fertility. Stem cells, due to their ability to self-renew and differentiate in several cell types, have been proposed as a useful tool in assisted reproductive technology, permitting the spermatogenesis recovery in patients with irreversible infertility. Considering the effects of heavy metals on male fertility and, from a demographic point of view, the decreased fertility ratio, further strategies are required to maintain a sustainable turn-over of 2 children for woman. We discuss here the findings on the biological effects of heavy metal pollution in the male fertility and underline the related socioeconomic impact on population demography.
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Affiliation(s)
- Felice Crocetto
- Department of Neuroscience, Reproductive Sciences and Dentistry, School of Medicine, University of Naples "Federico II," Naples, Italy
| | - Rossella Risolo
- Department of Precision Medicine, University of Campania "Luigi Vanvitelli," Naples, Italy
| | | | - Rosa Bellavita
- Department of Pharmacy, School of Medicine and Surgery, University of Naples Federico II, Naples, Italy
| | - Biagio Barone
- Department of Neuroscience, Reproductive Sciences and Dentistry, School of Medicine, University of Naples "Federico II," Naples, Italy
| | - Andrea Ballini
- Department of Precision Medicine, University of Campania "Luigi Vanvitelli," Naples, Italy
| | - Roberto Arrigoni
- CNR Institute of Biomembranes, Bioenergetics and Molecular Biotechnologies (IBIOM), Bari, Italy
| | - Vincenzo Francesco Caputo
- Department of Neuroscience, Reproductive Sciences and Dentistry, School of Medicine, University of Naples "Federico II," Naples, Italy
| | - Giovanni Luca
- Department of Experimental Medicine, University of Perugia, Terni, Italy
| | - Paolo Grieco
- Department of Pharmacy, School of Medicine and Surgery, University of Naples Federico II, Naples, Italy
| | - Giunio Santini
- Parliamentary Assembly of the Mediterranean (PAM) Naples, Azienda Ospedaliera Universitaria, Naples, Italy
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10
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Pacifico R, Del Gaudio N, Bove G, Altucci L, Siragusa L, Cruciani G, Ruvo M, Bellavita R, Grieco P, Adamo MFA. Discovery of a new class of triazole based inhibitors of acetyl transferase KAT2A. J Enzyme Inhib Med Chem 2022; 37:1987-1994. [PMID: 35880250 PMCID: PMC9331200 DOI: 10.1080/14756366.2022.2097447] [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] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/03/2022] Open
Abstract
We have recently developed a new synthetic methodology that provided both N-aryl-5-hydroxytriazoles and N-pyridine-4-alkyl triazoles. A selection of these products was carried through virtual screening towards targets that are contemporary and validated for drug discovery and development. This study determined a number of potential structure target dyads of which N-pyridinium-4-carboxylic-5-alkyl triazole displayed the highest score specificity towards KAT2A. Binding affinity tests of abovementioned triazole and related analogs towards KAT2A confirmed the predictions of the in-silico assay. Finally, we have run in vitro inhibition assays of selected triazoles towards KAT2A; the ensemble of binding and inhibition assays delivered pyridyl-triazoles carboxylates as the prototype of a new class of inhibitors of KAT2A.
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Affiliation(s)
- Roberta Pacifico
- Centre for Synthesis and Chemical Biology (CSCB), Department of Chemistry, Royal College of Surgeons in Ireland, Dublin, Ireland
| | - Nunzio Del Gaudio
- Department of precision medicine, University of Campania Luigi Vanvitelli, Naples, Italy
| | - Guglielmo Bove
- Department of precision medicine, University of Campania Luigi Vanvitelli, Naples, Italy
| | - Lucia Altucci
- Department of precision medicine, University of Campania Luigi Vanvitelli, Naples, Italy
| | | | - Gabriele Cruciani
- Laboratory for Chemometrics and Molecular Modeling, Department of Chemistry, Biology, and Biotechnology, University of Perugia, Perugia, Italy
| | - Menotti Ruvo
- Institute of Biostructures and Bioimaging, Consiglio Nazionale delle Ricerche, Naples, Italy
| | - Rosa Bellavita
- Department of Pharmacy, School of Medicine, University of Naples 'Federico II', Naples, Italy
| | - Paolo Grieco
- Department of Pharmacy, School of Medicine, University of Naples 'Federico II', Naples, Italy
| | - Mauro F A Adamo
- Centre for Synthesis and Chemical Biology (CSCB), Department of Chemistry, Royal College of Surgeons in Ireland, Dublin, Ireland
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11
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La Manna S, Fortuna S, Leone M, Mercurio FA, Di Donato I, Bellavita R, Grieco P, Merlino F, Marasco D. Ad-hoc modifications of cyclic mimetics of SOCS1 protein: Structural and functional insights. Eur J Med Chem 2022; 243:114781. [PMID: 36152385 DOI: 10.1016/j.ejmech.2022.114781] [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] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/14/2022] [Revised: 09/13/2022] [Accepted: 09/14/2022] [Indexed: 11/24/2022]
Abstract
Suppressors of cytokine signaling 1 (SOCS1) protein, a negative regulator of the Janus kinase (JAK)-signal transducer and activator of transcription (STAT) pathway, possesses a small kinase inhibitory region (KIR) involved in the inhibition of JAK kinases. Several studies showed that mimetics of KIR-SOCS1 can be potent therapeutics in several disorders (e.g., neurological, autoimmune or cardiovascular diseases). In this work, starting from a recently identified cyclic peptidomimetic of KIR-SOCS1, icPS5(Nal1), to optimize the peptide structure and improve its biological activity, we designed novel derivatives, containing crucial amino acids substitutions and/or modifications affecting the ring size. By combining microscale thermophoresis (MST), Circular Dichroism (CD), Nuclear Magnetic Resonance (NMR) and computational studies, we showed that the cycle size plays a key role in the interaction with JAK2 and the substitution of native residues with un-natural building blocks is a valid tool to maintain low-micromolar affinity toward JAK2, greatly increasing their serum stability. These findings contribute to increase the structural knowledge required for the recognition of SOCS1/JAK2 and to progress towards their conversion into more drug-like compounds.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sara La Manna
- Department of Pharmacy, University of Naples "Federico II", 80131, Naples, Italy
| | - Sara Fortuna
- CONCEPT Lab, Istituto Italiano di Tecnologia (IIT), Via E. Melen, 83, I-16152, Genova, Italy
| | - Marilisa Leone
- Institute of Biostructures and Bioimaging, CNR, 80145, Naples, Italy
| | - Flavia A Mercurio
- Institute of Biostructures and Bioimaging, CNR, 80145, Naples, Italy
| | - Ilaria Di Donato
- Department of Pharmacy, University of Naples "Federico II", 80131, Naples, Italy
| | - Rosa Bellavita
- Department of Pharmacy, University of Naples "Federico II", 80131, Naples, Italy
| | - Paolo Grieco
- Department of Pharmacy, University of Naples "Federico II", 80131, Naples, Italy
| | - Francesco Merlino
- Department of Pharmacy, University of Naples "Federico II", 80131, Naples, Italy
| | - Daniela Marasco
- Department of Pharmacy, University of Naples "Federico II", 80131, Naples, Italy.
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12
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Ottaiano A, de Vera d’Aragona RP, Trotta AM, Santorsola M, Napolitano M, Scognamiglio G, Tatangelo F, Grieco P, Zappavigna S, Granata V, Perri F, Luce A, Savarese G, Ianniello M, Casillo M, Petrillo N, Belli A, Izzo F, Nasti G, Caraglia M, Scala S. Characterization of KRAS Mutational Regression in Oligometastatic Patients. Front Immunol 2022; 13:898561. [PMID: 35936004 PMCID: PMC9354788 DOI: 10.3389/fimmu.2022.898561] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/17/2022] [Accepted: 06/20/2022] [Indexed: 11/13/2022] Open
Abstract
BackgroundWe previously reported rare regressive genetic trajectories of KRAS pathogenic mutations as a specific hallmark of the genuine oligometastatic status in colorectal cancer (CRC).MethodsSurvival and prognostic impact of disease extent in 140 metastatic CRC patients were evaluated through the Kaplan–Meyer curves and the Log-Rank test. KRAS mutations were assessed through the Illumina NovaSeq 6000 platform and TruSight™ Oncology 500 kit. HLA typing was carried out by PCR with sequence-specific oligonucleotides. Lymphocyte densities in tumors were expressed as cells per square millimeter. NKs isolated and CD8+ from NK-depleted PBMCs were characterized through flow cytometry. CD107a externalization was evaluated as NKs/CD8 cytotoxicity toward human colon cancer cells HT29, SW620, HCT116, and LS174T carrying different KRAS mutations.ResultsThe oligometastatic status was a strong and independent variable for survival (HR: 0.08 vs. polymetastatic disease; 95% CI: 0.02–0.26; p < 0.001). Eighteen oligometastatic patients were selected. Twelve were alive at the last follow-up, and 9 were characterized. Genetic regression of KRAS was observed in 3 patients: patient (PAT)2, PAT5, and PAT8. PAT2 and PAT5 presented the highest levels of GrzB+ lymphocytes in the tumor cores of the metastases (120 ± 11.2 and 132 ± 12.2 cells/mm2, respectively). Six out of 9 patients (67%), including PAT2 and PAT5, expressed HLA-C7. Twopatients (PAT2 and PAT5) presented high CD3+/CD8+-dependent cytotoxicity against HLA-C7+ SW620 cells (p.G12V-mutated cells), which was consistent with their observed mutational regression (p.G12V/p.G13D in primary→p.G13D in metastatic tumor).ConclusionsWe provide evidence that CD3+/CD8+ lymphocytes from oligometastatic CRC patients display differential cytotoxicity against human colon cancer cells carrying KRAS mutations. This could provide an interesting basis for monitoring oligometastatic disease and developing future adoptive immunotherapies.
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Affiliation(s)
- Alessandro Ottaiano
- Istituto Nazionale Tumori di Napoli, Istituto di Ricovero e Cura a Carattere Scientifico (IRCCS) “G. Pascale”, Naples, Italy
- *Correspondence: Alessandro Ottaiano,
| | - Roberta Penta de Vera d’Aragona
- Oncohaematology Department, Azienda Ospedaliera di Rilievo Nazionale (A.O.R.N.) Santobono-Pausilipon di Napoli, Naples, Italy
| | - Anna Maria Trotta
- Istituto Nazionale Tumori di Napoli, Istituto di Ricovero e Cura a Carattere Scientifico (IRCCS) “G. Pascale”, Naples, Italy
| | - Mariachiara Santorsola
- Istituto Nazionale Tumori di Napoli, Istituto di Ricovero e Cura a Carattere Scientifico (IRCCS) “G. Pascale”, Naples, Italy
| | - Maria Napolitano
- Istituto Nazionale Tumori di Napoli, Istituto di Ricovero e Cura a Carattere Scientifico (IRCCS) “G. Pascale”, Naples, Italy
| | - Giosuè Scognamiglio
- Istituto Nazionale Tumori di Napoli, Istituto di Ricovero e Cura a Carattere Scientifico (IRCCS) “G. Pascale”, Naples, Italy
| | - Fabiana Tatangelo
- Istituto Nazionale Tumori di Napoli, Istituto di Ricovero e Cura a Carattere Scientifico (IRCCS) “G. Pascale”, Naples, Italy
| | - Paolo Grieco
- Department of Pharmacy, University of Naples “Federico II”, Naples, Italy
| | - Silvia Zappavigna
- Department of Precision Medicine, University of Campania “L. Vanvitelli”, Naples, Italy
- Biogem Scarl, Institute of Genetic Research, Laboratory of Molecular and Precision Oncology, Ariano Irpino, Italy
| | - Vincenza Granata
- Istituto Nazionale Tumori di Napoli, Istituto di Ricovero e Cura a Carattere Scientifico (IRCCS) “G. Pascale”, Naples, Italy
| | - Francesco Perri
- Istituto Nazionale Tumori di Napoli, Istituto di Ricovero e Cura a Carattere Scientifico (IRCCS) “G. Pascale”, Naples, Italy
| | - Amalia Luce
- Department of Precision Medicine, University of Campania “L. Vanvitelli”, Naples, Italy
- Biogem Scarl, Institute of Genetic Research, Laboratory of Molecular and Precision Oncology, Ariano Irpino, Italy
| | | | | | - Marika Casillo
- AMES, Centro Polidiagnostico Strumentale srl, Naples, Italy
| | - Nadia Petrillo
- AMES, Centro Polidiagnostico Strumentale srl, Naples, Italy
| | - Andrea Belli
- Istituto Nazionale Tumori di Napoli, Istituto di Ricovero e Cura a Carattere Scientifico (IRCCS) “G. Pascale”, Naples, Italy
| | - Francesco Izzo
- Istituto Nazionale Tumori di Napoli, Istituto di Ricovero e Cura a Carattere Scientifico (IRCCS) “G. Pascale”, Naples, Italy
| | - Guglielmo Nasti
- Istituto Nazionale Tumori di Napoli, Istituto di Ricovero e Cura a Carattere Scientifico (IRCCS) “G. Pascale”, Naples, Italy
| | - Michele Caraglia
- Department of Precision Medicine, University of Campania “L. Vanvitelli”, Naples, Italy
- Biogem Scarl, Institute of Genetic Research, Laboratory of Molecular and Precision Oncology, Ariano Irpino, Italy
| | - Stefania Scala
- Istituto Nazionale Tumori di Napoli, Istituto di Ricovero e Cura a Carattere Scientifico (IRCCS) “G. Pascale”, Naples, Italy
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13
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Gimenez LE, Noblin TA, Williams SY, Mullick Bagchi S, Ji RL, Tao YX, Jeppesen CB, Conde-Frieboes KW, Sawyer TK, Grieco P, Cone RD. Demonstration of a Common DPhe 7 to DNal(2') 7 Peptide Ligand Antagonist Switch for Melanocortin-3 and Melanocortin-4 Receptors Identifies the Systematic Mischaracterization of the Pharmacological Properties of Melanocortin Peptides. J Med Chem 2022; 65:5990-6000. [PMID: 35404053 PMCID: PMC9059122 DOI: 10.1021/acs.jmedchem.1c01295] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/28/2022]
Abstract
Melanocortin peptides containing a 3-(2-naphthyl)-d-alanine residue in position 7 (DNal(2')7), reported as melanocortin-3 receptor (MC3R) subtype-specific agonists in two separate publications, were found to lack significant MC3R agonist activity. The cell lines used at the University of Arizona for pharmacological characterization of these peptides, consisting of HEK293 cells stably transfected with human melanocortin receptor subtypes MC1R, MC3R, MC4R, or MC5R, were then obtained and characterized by quantitative polymerase chain reaction (PCR). While the MC1R cell line correctly expressed only hMCR1, the three other cell lines were mischaracterized with regard to receptor subtype expression. The demonstration that a 3-(2-naphthyl)-d-alanine residue in position 7, irrespective of the melanocortin peptide template, results primarily in the antagonism of MC3R and MC4R then allowed us to search the published literature for additional errors. The erroneously characterized DNal(2')7-containing peptides date back to 2003; thus, our analysis suggests that systematic mischaracterization of the pharmacological properties of melanocortin peptides occurred.
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Affiliation(s)
- Luis E. Gimenez
- Life
Sciences Institute, University of Michigan, Ann Arbor, Michigan 48109, United States,
| | - Terry A. Noblin
- Life
Sciences Institute, University of Michigan, Ann Arbor, Michigan 48109, United States
| | - Savannah Y. Williams
- Life
Sciences Institute, University of Michigan, Ann Arbor, Michigan 48109, United States
| | | | - Ren-Lei Ji
- Department
of Anatomy, Physiology and Pharmacology, College of Veterinary Medicine, Auburn University, Auburn, Alabama 36849, United States
| | - Ya-Xiong Tao
- Department
of Anatomy, Physiology and Pharmacology, College of Veterinary Medicine, Auburn University, Auburn, Alabama 36849, United States
| | | | | | - Tomi K. Sawyer
- Courage
Therapeutics, 64 Homer
Street, Newton, Massachusetts 02459, United States
| | - Paolo Grieco
- #Department of Pharmacy and ∇CIRPEB, Centro Interuniversitario
di Ricerca sui
Peptidi Bioattivi, University of Naples,
Federico II, Naples 80131, Italy
| | - Roger D. Cone
- Life
Sciences Institute, University of Michigan, Ann Arbor, Michigan 48109, United States,Department
of Molecular and Integrative Physiology, School of Medicine, University of Michigan, Ann Arbor, Michigan 48109, United States,
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14
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Bellavita R, Maione A, Merlino F, Siciliano A, Dardano P, De Stefano L, Galdiero S, Galdiero E, Grieco P, Falanga A. Antifungal and Antibiofilm Activity of Cyclic Temporin L Peptide Analogues against Albicans and Non-Albicans Candida Species. Pharmaceutics 2022; 14:pharmaceutics14020454. [PMID: 35214187 PMCID: PMC8877061 DOI: 10.3390/pharmaceutics14020454] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [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: 01/13/2022] [Revised: 02/04/2022] [Accepted: 02/15/2022] [Indexed: 12/13/2022] Open
Abstract
Temporins are one of the largest families of antimicrobial peptides with both anti-inflammatory and antimicrobial activity. Herein, for a panel of cyclic temporin L isoform analogues, the antifungal and antibiofilm activities were determined against representative Candida strains, including C. albicans, C. glabrata, C. auris, C. parapsilosis and C. tropicalis. The outcomes indicated a significant anti-candida activity against planktonic and biofilm growth for four peptides (3, 7, 15 and 16). The absence of toxicity up to high concentrations and survival after infection were assessed in vivo by using Galleria mellonella larvae, and the correlation between conformation and cytotoxicity was investigated by fluorescence assays and circular dichroism (CD). By combining fluorescence spectroscopy, CD, dynamic light scattering, confocal and atomic force microscopy, the mode of action of four analogues was hypothesized. The results pinpointed that peptide 3 emerged as a non-toxic compound showing a potent antibiofilm activity and represents a promising compound for biomedical applications.
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Affiliation(s)
- Rosa Bellavita
- Department of Pharmacy, School of Medicine, University of Naples ‘Federico II’, Via Domenico Montesano 49, 80131 Naples, Italy; (R.B.); (F.M.); (S.G.)
| | - Angela Maione
- Department of Biology, University of Naples ‘Federico II’, Via Cinthia, 80126 Naples, Italy; (A.M.); (A.S.)
| | - Francesco Merlino
- Department of Pharmacy, School of Medicine, University of Naples ‘Federico II’, Via Domenico Montesano 49, 80131 Naples, Italy; (R.B.); (F.M.); (S.G.)
| | - Antonietta Siciliano
- Department of Biology, University of Naples ‘Federico II’, Via Cinthia, 80126 Naples, Italy; (A.M.); (A.S.)
| | - Principia Dardano
- Institute of Applied Sciences and Intelligent Systems, Consiglio Nazionale delle Ricerche, Via Pietro Castellino 111, 80131 Naples, Italy; (P.D.); (L.D.S.)
| | - Luca De Stefano
- Institute of Applied Sciences and Intelligent Systems, Consiglio Nazionale delle Ricerche, Via Pietro Castellino 111, 80131 Naples, Italy; (P.D.); (L.D.S.)
| | - Stefania Galdiero
- Department of Pharmacy, School of Medicine, University of Naples ‘Federico II’, Via Domenico Montesano 49, 80131 Naples, Italy; (R.B.); (F.M.); (S.G.)
| | - Emilia Galdiero
- Department of Biology, University of Naples ‘Federico II’, Via Cinthia, 80126 Naples, Italy; (A.M.); (A.S.)
- Correspondence: (E.G.); (P.G.); (A.F.); Tel.: +39-081-679182 (E.G.); +39-081-678620 (P.G.); +39-081-2534503 (A.F.)
| | - Paolo Grieco
- Department of Pharmacy, School of Medicine, University of Naples ‘Federico II’, Via Domenico Montesano 49, 80131 Naples, Italy; (R.B.); (F.M.); (S.G.)
- Correspondence: (E.G.); (P.G.); (A.F.); Tel.: +39-081-679182 (E.G.); +39-081-678620 (P.G.); +39-081-2534503 (A.F.)
| | - Annarita Falanga
- Department of Agricultural Science, University of Naples ‘Federico II’, Via Università 100, 80055 Portici, Italy
- Correspondence: (E.G.); (P.G.); (A.F.); Tel.: +39-081-679182 (E.G.); +39-081-678620 (P.G.); +39-081-2534503 (A.F.)
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15
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Roscetto E, Bellavita R, Paolillo R, Merlino F, Molfetta N, Grieco P, Buommino E, Catania MR. Antimicrobial Activity of a Lipidated Temporin L Analogue against Carbapenemase-Producing Klebsiella pneumoniae Clinical Isolates. Antibiotics (Basel) 2021; 10:antibiotics10111312. [PMID: 34827250 PMCID: PMC8614721 DOI: 10.3390/antibiotics10111312] [Citation(s) in RCA: 12] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.0] [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: 10/11/2021] [Revised: 10/25/2021] [Accepted: 10/26/2021] [Indexed: 02/08/2023] Open
Abstract
Over the years, the increasing acquisition of antibiotic resistance genes has led to the emergence of highly resistant bacterial strains and the loss of standard antibiotics' efficacy, including β-lactam/β-lactamase inhibitor combinations and the last line carbapenems. Klebsiella pneumoniae is considered one of the major exponents of a group of multidrug-resistant ESKAPE pathogens responsible for serious healthcare-associated infections. In this study, we proved the antimicrobial activity of two analogues of Temporin L against twenty carbapenemase-producing K. pneumoniae clinical isolates. According to the antibiotic susceptibility assay, all the K. pneumoniae strains were resistant to at least one other class of antibiotics, in addition to beta-lactams. Peptides 1B and C showed activity on all test strains, but the lipidated analogue C expressed the greater antimicrobial properties, with MIC values ranging from 6.25 to 25 µM. Furthermore, the peptide C showed bactericidal activity at MIC values. The results clearly highlight the great potential of antimicrobial peptides both as a new treatment option for difficult-to-treat infections and as a new strategy of drug-resistance control.
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Affiliation(s)
- Emanuela Roscetto
- Department of Molecular Medicine and Medical Biotechnology, University of Naples Federico II, Via S. Pansini 5, 80131 Naples, Italy; (E.R.); (R.P.)
| | - Rosa Bellavita
- Department of Pharmacy, University of Naples Federico II, Via Montesano 49, 80131 Naples, Italy; (R.B.); (F.M.); (N.M.); (P.G.); (E.B.)
| | - Rossella Paolillo
- Department of Molecular Medicine and Medical Biotechnology, University of Naples Federico II, Via S. Pansini 5, 80131 Naples, Italy; (E.R.); (R.P.)
| | - Francesco Merlino
- Department of Pharmacy, University of Naples Federico II, Via Montesano 49, 80131 Naples, Italy; (R.B.); (F.M.); (N.M.); (P.G.); (E.B.)
| | - Nicola Molfetta
- Department of Pharmacy, University of Naples Federico II, Via Montesano 49, 80131 Naples, Italy; (R.B.); (F.M.); (N.M.); (P.G.); (E.B.)
| | - Paolo Grieco
- Department of Pharmacy, University of Naples Federico II, Via Montesano 49, 80131 Naples, Italy; (R.B.); (F.M.); (N.M.); (P.G.); (E.B.)
| | - Elisabetta Buommino
- Department of Pharmacy, University of Naples Federico II, Via Montesano 49, 80131 Naples, Italy; (R.B.); (F.M.); (N.M.); (P.G.); (E.B.)
| | - Maria Rosaria Catania
- Department of Molecular Medicine and Medical Biotechnology, University of Naples Federico II, Via S. Pansini 5, 80131 Naples, Italy; (E.R.); (R.P.)
- Correspondence: ; Tel.: +39-081-7464577
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16
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Gesualdo C, Balta C, Platania CBM, Trotta MC, Herman H, Gharbia S, Rosu M, Petrillo F, Giunta S, Della Corte A, Grieco P, Bellavita R, Simonelli F, D'Amico M, Hermenean A, Rossi S, Bucolo C. Fingolimod and Diabetic Retinopathy: A Drug Repurposing Study. Front Pharmacol 2021; 12:718902. [PMID: 34603029 PMCID: PMC8484636 DOI: 10.3389/fphar.2021.718902] [Citation(s) in RCA: 12] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.0] [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: 06/01/2021] [Accepted: 08/20/2021] [Indexed: 01/11/2023] Open
Abstract
This study aimed to investigate the interactions between fingolimod, a sphingosine 1-phosphate receptor (S1PR) agonist, and melanocortin receptors 1 and 5 (MCR1, MCR5). In particular, we investigated the effects of fingolimod, a drug approved to treat relapsing-remitting multiple sclerosis, on retinal angiogenesis in a mouse model of diabetic retinopathy (DR). We showed, by a molecular modeling approach, that fingolimod can bind with good-predicted affinity to MC1R and MC5R. Thereafter, we investigated the fingolimod actions on retinal MC1Rs/MC5Rs in C57BL/6J mice. Diabetes was induced in C57BL/6J mice through streptozotocin injection. Diabetic and control C57BL/6J mice received fingolimod, by oral route, for 12 weeks and a monthly intravitreally injection of MC1R antagonist (AGRP), MC5R antagonist (PG20N), and the selective S1PR1 antagonist (Ex 26). Diabetic animals treated with fingolimod showed a decrease of retinal vascular endothelial growth factor A (VEGFA) and vascular endothelial growth factor receptors 1 and 2 (VEGFR1 and VEGFR2), compared to diabetic control group. Fingolimod co-treatment with MC1R and MC5R selective antagonists significantly (p < 0.05) increased retinal VEGFR1, VEGFR2, and VEGFA levels compared to mice treated with fingolimod alone. Diabetic animals treated with fingolimod plus Ex 26 (S1PR1 selective blocker) had VEGFR1, VEGFR2, and VEGFA levels between diabetic mice group and the group of diabetic mice treated with fingolimod alone. This vascular protective effect of fingolimod, through activation of MC1R and MC5R, was evidenced also by fluorescein angiography in mice. Finally, molecular dynamic simulations showed a strong similarity between fingolimod and the MC1R agonist BMS-470539. In conclusion, the anti-angiogenic activity exerted by fingolimod in DR seems to be mediated not only through S1P1R, but also by melanocortin receptors.
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Affiliation(s)
- Carlo Gesualdo
- Multidisciplinary Department of Medical, Surgical and Dental Sciences, University of Campania "Luigi Vanvitelli", Naples, Italy
| | - Cornel Balta
- "Aurel Ardelean" Institute of Life Sciences, Vasile Godis Western University of Arad, Arad, Romania
| | - Chiara Bianca Maria Platania
- Department of Biomedical and Biotechnological Sciences, School of Medicine, University of Catania, Catania, Italy
| | - Maria Consiglia Trotta
- Department of Experimental Medicine, University of Campania "Luigi Vanvitelli", Naples, Italy
| | - Hildegard Herman
- "Aurel Ardelean" Institute of Life Sciences, Vasile Godis Western University of Arad, Arad, Romania
| | - Sami Gharbia
- "Aurel Ardelean" Institute of Life Sciences, Vasile Godis Western University of Arad, Arad, Romania
| | - Marcel Rosu
- "Aurel Ardelean" Institute of Life Sciences, Vasile Godis Western University of Arad, Arad, Romania
| | | | - Salvatore Giunta
- Department of Biomedical and Biotechnological Sciences, School of Medicine, University of Catania, Catania, Italy
| | - Alberto Della Corte
- Multidisciplinary Department of Medical, Surgical and Dental Sciences, University of Campania "Luigi Vanvitelli", Naples, Italy
| | - Paolo Grieco
- Pharmacy Department, University of Naples Federico II, Naples, Italy
| | - Rosa Bellavita
- Pharmacy Department, University of Naples Federico II, Naples, Italy
| | - Francesca Simonelli
- Multidisciplinary Department of Medical, Surgical and Dental Sciences, University of Campania "Luigi Vanvitelli", Naples, Italy
| | - Michele D'Amico
- Department of Experimental Medicine, University of Campania "Luigi Vanvitelli", Naples, Italy
| | - Anca Hermenean
- "Aurel Ardelean" Institute of Life Sciences, Vasile Godis Western University of Arad, Arad, Romania.,Department of Histology, Faculty of Medicine, Vasile Goldis Western University of Arad, Arad, Romania
| | - Settimio Rossi
- Multidisciplinary Department of Medical, Surgical and Dental Sciences, University of Campania "Luigi Vanvitelli", Naples, Italy
| | - Claudio Bucolo
- Department of Biomedical and Biotechnological Sciences, School of Medicine, University of Catania, Catania, Italy
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17
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Bellavita R, Casciaro B, Di Maro S, Brancaccio D, Carotenuto A, Falanga A, Cappiello F, Buommino E, Galdiero S, Novellino E, Grossmann TN, Mangoni ML, Merlino F, Grieco P. First-in-Class Cyclic Temporin L Analogue: Design, Synthesis, and Antimicrobial Assessment. J Med Chem 2021; 64:11675-11694. [PMID: 34296619 PMCID: PMC8389922 DOI: 10.1021/acs.jmedchem.1c01033] [Citation(s) in RCA: 21] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.0] [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: 06/09/2021] [Indexed: 02/08/2023]
Abstract
The pharmacodynamic and pharmacokinetic properties of bioactive peptides can be modulated by introducing conformational constraints such as intramolecular macrocyclizations, which can involve either the backbone and/or side chains. Herein, we aimed at increasing the α-helicity content of temporin L, an isoform of an intriguing class of linear antimicrobial peptides (AMPs), endowed with a wide antimicrobial spectrum, by the employment of diverse side-chain tethering strategies, including lactam, 1,4-substituted [1,2,3]-triazole, hydrocarbon, and disulfide linkers. Our approach resulted in a library of cyclic temporin L analogues that were biologically assessed for their antimicrobial, cytotoxic, and antibiofilm activities, leading to the development of the first-in-class cyclic peptide related to this AMP family. Our results allowed us to expand the knowledge regarding the relationship between the α-helical character of temporin derivatives and their biological activity, paving the way for the development of improved antibiotic cyclic AMP analogues.
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Affiliation(s)
- Rosa Bellavita
- Department
of Pharmacy, University of Naples “Federico
II”, Naples 80131, Italy
| | - Bruno Casciaro
- Center
for Life Nano- & Neuro-Science, Fondazione
Istituto Italiano di Tecnologia (IIT), Rome 00161, Italy
| | - Salvatore Di Maro
- DiSTABiF, University of Campania “Luigi
Vanvitelli”, Caserta 81100, Italy
| | - Diego Brancaccio
- Department
of Pharmacy, University of Naples “Federico
II”, Naples 80131, Italy
| | - Alfonso Carotenuto
- Department
of Pharmacy, University of Naples “Federico
II”, Naples 80131, Italy
| | - Annarita Falanga
- Department
of Agricultural Sciences, University of
Naples “Federico II”, Portici 80055, Italy
| | - Floriana Cappiello
- Department
of Biochemical Sciences, Laboratory affiliated to Istituto Pasteur
Italia-Fondazione Cenci Bolognetti, Sapienza
University of Rome, Rome 00185, Italy
| | - Elisabetta Buommino
- Department
of Pharmacy, University of Naples “Federico
II”, Naples 80131, Italy
| | - Stefania Galdiero
- Department
of Pharmacy, University of Naples “Federico
II”, Naples 80131, Italy
| | - Ettore Novellino
- Department
of Pharmacy, University of Naples “Federico
II”, Naples 80131, Italy
| | - Tom N. Grossmann
- Department
of Chemistry & Pharmaceutical Sciences, VU University Amsterdam, Amsterdam 1081 HZ, The Netherlands
| | - Maria Luisa Mangoni
- Department
of Biochemical Sciences, Laboratory affiliated to Istituto Pasteur
Italia-Fondazione Cenci Bolognetti, Sapienza
University of Rome, Rome 00185, Italy
| | - Francesco Merlino
- Department
of Pharmacy, University of Naples “Federico
II”, Naples 80131, Italy
| | - Paolo Grieco
- Department
of Pharmacy, University of Naples “Federico
II”, Naples 80131, Italy
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18
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Bencivenni G, Salazar Illera D, Moccia M, Houk KN, Izzo JA, Novacek J, Grieco P, Vetticatt MJ, Waser M, Adamo MFA. Study of Ground State Interactions of Enantiopure Chiral Quaternary Ammonium Salts and Amides, Nitroalkanes, Nitroalkenes, Esters, Heterocycles, Ketones and Fluoroamides. Chemistry 2021; 27:11352-11366. [PMID: 33963788 PMCID: PMC8453964 DOI: 10.1002/chem.202100908] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/11/2021] [Indexed: 11/21/2022]
Abstract
Chiral phase‐transfer catalysis provides high level of enantiocontrol, however no experimental data showed the interaction of catalysts and substrates. 1H NMR titration was carried out on Cinchona and Maruoka ammonium bromides vs. nitro, carbonyl, heterocycles, and N−F containing compounds. It was found that neutral organic species and quaternary ammonium salts interacted via an ensemble of catalyst +N−C−H and (sp2)C−H, specific for each substrate studied. The correspondent BArF salts interacted with carbonyls via a diverse set of +N−C−H and (sp2)C−H compared to bromides. This data suggests that BArF ammonium salts may display a different enantioselectivity profile. Although not providing quantitative data for the affinity constants, the data reported proofs that chiral ammonium salts coordinate with substrates, prior to transition state, through specific C−H positions in their structures, providing a new rational to rationalize the origin of enantioselectivity in their catalyses.
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Affiliation(s)
- Grazia Bencivenni
- Department of Chemistry, RCSI, University of Medicine and Health Science, 123 St Stephen's Green, Dublin 2, Dublin, Republic of Ireland
| | - Diana Salazar Illera
- Department of Chemistry, RCSI, University of Medicine and Health Science, 123 St Stephen's Green, Dublin 2, Dublin, Republic of Ireland
| | - Maria Moccia
- CNR-ICC, Institute of Crystallography, Via G. Amendola 122/O, 70126, Bari, Italy
| | - K N Houk
- Department of Chemistry and Biochemistry, University of California, Los Angeles, Los Angeles, CA 90095-1569, USA
| | - Joseph A Izzo
- Department of Chemistry, State University of NY Binghamton, Binghamton, NY, USA
| | - Johanna Novacek
- Institute of Organic Chemistry, Johannes Kepler University Linz, Altenbergerstrasse 69, 4040, Linz, Austria
| | - Paolo Grieco
- Faculty of Pharmacy, University of Naples Federico II, Corso Umberto I, 40, 80138, Napoli, NA, Italy
| | - Mathew J Vetticatt
- Department of Chemistry, State University of NY Binghamton, Binghamton, NY, USA
| | - Mario Waser
- Institute of Organic Chemistry, Johannes Kepler University Linz, Altenbergerstrasse 69, 4040, Linz, Austria
| | - Mauro F A Adamo
- Department of Chemistry, RCSI, University of Medicine and Health Science, 123 St Stephen's Green, Dublin 2, Dublin, Republic of Ireland
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19
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Wendt M, Bellavita R, Gerber A, Efrém NL, van Ramshorst T, Pearce NM, Davey PRJ, Everard I, Vazquez-Chantada M, Chiarparin E, Grieco P, Hennig S, Grossmann TN. Bicyclic β-Sheet Mimetics that Target the Transcriptional Coactivator β-Catenin and Inhibit Wnt Signaling. Angew Chem Int Ed Engl 2021; 60:13937-13944. [PMID: 33783110 PMCID: PMC8252567 DOI: 10.1002/anie.202102082] [Citation(s) in RCA: 26] [Impact Index Per Article: 8.7] [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: 02/09/2021] [Indexed: 12/29/2022]
Abstract
Protein complexes are defined by the three-dimensional structure of participating binding partners. Knowledge about these structures can facilitate the design of peptidomimetics which have been applied for example, as inhibitors of protein-protein interactions (PPIs). Even though β-sheets participate widely in PPIs, they have only rarely served as the basis for peptidomimetic PPI inhibitors, in particular when addressing intracellular targets. Here, we present the structure-based design of β-sheet mimetics targeting the intracellular protein β-catenin, a central component of the Wnt signaling pathway. Based on a protein binding partner of β-catenin, a macrocyclic peptide was designed and its crystal structure in complex with β-catenin obtained. Using this structure, we designed a library of bicyclic β-sheet mimetics employing a late-stage diversification strategy. Several mimetics were identified that compete with transcription factor binding to β-catenin and inhibit Wnt signaling in cells. The presented design strategy can support the development of inhibitors for other β-sheet-mediated PPIs.
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Affiliation(s)
- Mathias Wendt
- Department of Chemistry and Pharmaceutical Sciences, VU University Amsterdam, Amsterdam, The Netherlands
| | - Rosa Bellavita
- Department of Chemistry and Pharmaceutical Sciences, VU University Amsterdam, Amsterdam, The Netherlands
- Department of Pharmacy, University of Naples Federico II, Naples, Italy
| | - Alan Gerber
- Department of Chemistry and Pharmaceutical Sciences, VU University Amsterdam, Amsterdam, The Netherlands
| | - Nina-Louisa Efrém
- Department of Chemistry and Pharmaceutical Sciences, VU University Amsterdam, Amsterdam, The Netherlands
| | - Thirza van Ramshorst
- Department of Chemistry and Pharmaceutical Sciences, VU University Amsterdam, Amsterdam, The Netherlands
| | - Nicholas M Pearce
- Department of Chemistry and Pharmaceutical Sciences, VU University Amsterdam, Amsterdam, The Netherlands
| | - Paul R J Davey
- Medicinal Chemistry, Oncology R&D, AstraZeneca, Cambridge, UK
| | - Isabel Everard
- Mechanistic Biology and Profiling, Discovery Sciences, R&D, AstraZeneca, Cambridge, UK
| | | | | | - Paolo Grieco
- Department of Pharmacy, University of Naples Federico II, Naples, Italy
| | - Sven Hennig
- Department of Chemistry and Pharmaceutical Sciences, VU University Amsterdam, Amsterdam, The Netherlands
| | - Tom N Grossmann
- Department of Chemistry and Pharmaceutical Sciences, VU University Amsterdam, Amsterdam, The Netherlands
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20
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Wendt M, Bellavita R, Gerber A, Efrém N, Ramshorst T, Pearce NM, Davey PRJ, Everard I, Vazquez‐Chantada M, Chiarparin E, Grieco P, Hennig S, Grossmann TN. Rücktitelbild: Bicyclic β‐Sheet Mimetics that Target the Transcriptional Coactivator β‐Catenin and Inhibit Wnt Signaling (Angew. Chem. 25/2021). Angew Chem Int Ed Engl 2021. [DOI: 10.1002/ange.202104892] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/09/2022]
Affiliation(s)
- Mathias Wendt
- Department of Chemistry and Pharmaceutical Sciences VU University Amsterdam Amsterdam The Netherlands
| | - Rosa Bellavita
- Department of Chemistry and Pharmaceutical Sciences VU University Amsterdam Amsterdam The Netherlands
- Department of Pharmacy University of Naples Federico II Naples Italy
| | - Alan Gerber
- Department of Chemistry and Pharmaceutical Sciences VU University Amsterdam Amsterdam The Netherlands
| | - Nina‐Louisa Efrém
- Department of Chemistry and Pharmaceutical Sciences VU University Amsterdam Amsterdam The Netherlands
| | - Thirza Ramshorst
- Department of Chemistry and Pharmaceutical Sciences VU University Amsterdam Amsterdam The Netherlands
| | - Nicholas M. Pearce
- Department of Chemistry and Pharmaceutical Sciences VU University Amsterdam Amsterdam The Netherlands
| | | | - Isabel Everard
- Mechanistic Biology and Profiling Discovery Sciences, R&D AstraZeneca Cambridge UK
| | | | | | - Paolo Grieco
- Department of Pharmacy University of Naples Federico II Naples Italy
| | - Sven Hennig
- Department of Chemistry and Pharmaceutical Sciences VU University Amsterdam Amsterdam The Netherlands
| | - Tom N. Grossmann
- Department of Chemistry and Pharmaceutical Sciences VU University Amsterdam Amsterdam The Netherlands
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21
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Wendt M, Bellavita R, Gerber A, Efrém N, Ramshorst T, Pearce NM, Davey PRJ, Everard I, Vazquez‐Chantada M, Chiarparin E, Grieco P, Hennig S, Grossmann TN. Back Cover: Bicyclic β‐Sheet Mimetics that Target the Transcriptional Coactivator β‐Catenin and Inhibit Wnt Signaling (Angew. Chem. Int. Ed. 25/2021). Angew Chem Int Ed Engl 2021. [DOI: 10.1002/anie.202104892] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/10/2022]
Affiliation(s)
- Mathias Wendt
- Department of Chemistry and Pharmaceutical Sciences VU University Amsterdam Amsterdam The Netherlands
| | - Rosa Bellavita
- Department of Chemistry and Pharmaceutical Sciences VU University Amsterdam Amsterdam The Netherlands
- Department of Pharmacy University of Naples Federico II Naples Italy
| | - Alan Gerber
- Department of Chemistry and Pharmaceutical Sciences VU University Amsterdam Amsterdam The Netherlands
| | - Nina‐Louisa Efrém
- Department of Chemistry and Pharmaceutical Sciences VU University Amsterdam Amsterdam The Netherlands
| | - Thirza Ramshorst
- Department of Chemistry and Pharmaceutical Sciences VU University Amsterdam Amsterdam The Netherlands
| | - Nicholas M. Pearce
- Department of Chemistry and Pharmaceutical Sciences VU University Amsterdam Amsterdam The Netherlands
| | | | - Isabel Everard
- Mechanistic Biology and Profiling Discovery Sciences, R&D AstraZeneca Cambridge UK
| | | | | | - Paolo Grieco
- Department of Pharmacy University of Naples Federico II Naples Italy
| | - Sven Hennig
- Department of Chemistry and Pharmaceutical Sciences VU University Amsterdam Amsterdam The Netherlands
| | - Tom N. Grossmann
- Department of Chemistry and Pharmaceutical Sciences VU University Amsterdam Amsterdam The Netherlands
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22
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Wendt M, Bellavita R, Gerber A, Efrém N, Ramshorst T, Pearce NM, Davey PRJ, Everard I, Vazquez‐Chantada M, Chiarparin E, Grieco P, Hennig S, Grossmann TN. Bicyclic β‐Sheet Mimetics that Target the Transcriptional Coactivator β‐Catenin and Inhibit Wnt Signaling. Angew Chem Int Ed Engl 2021. [DOI: 10.1002/ange.202102082] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/25/2022]
Affiliation(s)
- Mathias Wendt
- Department of Chemistry and Pharmaceutical Sciences VU University Amsterdam Amsterdam The Netherlands
| | - Rosa Bellavita
- Department of Chemistry and Pharmaceutical Sciences VU University Amsterdam Amsterdam The Netherlands
- Department of Pharmacy University of Naples Federico II Naples Italy
| | - Alan Gerber
- Department of Chemistry and Pharmaceutical Sciences VU University Amsterdam Amsterdam The Netherlands
| | - Nina‐Louisa Efrém
- Department of Chemistry and Pharmaceutical Sciences VU University Amsterdam Amsterdam The Netherlands
| | - Thirza Ramshorst
- Department of Chemistry and Pharmaceutical Sciences VU University Amsterdam Amsterdam The Netherlands
| | - Nicholas M. Pearce
- Department of Chemistry and Pharmaceutical Sciences VU University Amsterdam Amsterdam The Netherlands
| | | | - Isabel Everard
- Mechanistic Biology and Profiling Discovery Sciences, R&D AstraZeneca Cambridge UK
| | | | | | - Paolo Grieco
- Department of Pharmacy University of Naples Federico II Naples Italy
| | - Sven Hennig
- Department of Chemistry and Pharmaceutical Sciences VU University Amsterdam Amsterdam The Netherlands
| | - Tom N. Grossmann
- Department of Chemistry and Pharmaceutical Sciences VU University Amsterdam Amsterdam The Netherlands
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23
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Bellavita R, Falanga A, Buommino E, Merlino F, Casciaro B, Cappiello F, Mangoni ML, Novellino E, Catania MR, Paolillo R, Grieco P, Galdieroa S. Novel temporin L antimicrobial peptides: promoting self-assembling by lipidic tags to tackle superbugs. J Enzyme Inhib Med Chem 2021; 35:1751-1764. [PMID: 32957844 PMCID: PMC7534258 DOI: 10.1080/14756366.2020.1819258] [Citation(s) in RCA: 17] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.7] [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] [Indexed: 12/13/2022] Open
Abstract
The rapid development of antimicrobial resistance is pushing the search in the discovering of novel antimicrobial molecules to prevent and treat bacterial infections. Self-assembling antimicrobial peptides, as the lipidated peptides, are a novel and promising class of molecules capable of meeting this need. Based on previous work on Temporin L analogs, several new molecules lipidated at the N- or and the C-terminus were synthesised. Our goal is to improve membrane interactions through finely tuning self-assembly to reduce oligomerisation in aqueous solution and enhance self-assembly in bacterial membranes while reducing toxicity against human cells. The results here reported show that the length of the aliphatic moiety is a key factor to control target cell specificity and the oligomeric state of peptides either in aqueous solution or in a membrane-mimicking environment. The results of this study pave the way for the design of novel molecules with enhanced activities.
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Affiliation(s)
- Rosa Bellavita
- Department of Pharmacy, University of Naples "Federico II", Naples, Italy
| | - Annarita Falanga
- Department of Agricultural Sciences, University of Naples "Federico II", Portici, Italy
| | | | - Francesco Merlino
- Department of Pharmacy, University of Naples "Federico II", Naples, Italy
| | - Bruno Casciaro
- Center for Life Nano Science@Sapienza, Italian Institute of Technology, Rome, Italy
| | - Floriana Cappiello
- Department of Biochemical Sciences, Laboratory affiliated to Pasteur Institute Italia-Fondazione Cenci Bolognetti, Sapienza University of Rome, Rome, Italy
| | - Maria Luisa Mangoni
- Department of Biochemical Sciences, Laboratory affiliated to Pasteur Institute Italia-Fondazione Cenci Bolognetti, Sapienza University of Rome, Rome, Italy
| | - Ettore Novellino
- Department of Pharmacy, University of Naples "Federico II", Naples, Italy
| | - Maria Rosaria Catania
- Department of Molecular Medicine and Medical Biotechnologies, University of Naples "Federico II", Naples, Italy
| | - Rossella Paolillo
- Department of Molecular Medicine and Medical Biotechnologies, University of Naples "Federico II", Naples, Italy
| | - Paolo Grieco
- Department of Pharmacy, University of Naples "Federico II", Naples, Italy
| | - Stefania Galdieroa
- Department of Pharmacy, University of Naples "Federico II", Naples, Italy
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24
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Grieco P. When Macrocyclic Peptides Meet the Crystal Structure of a Melanocortin Receptor. J Med Chem 2021; 64:354-356. [PMID: 33393773 PMCID: PMC7884008 DOI: 10.1021/acs.jmedchem.0c02087] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/28/2022]
Abstract
This work reveals
some key factors for the design of a novel generation
of selective melanocortin ligands at the MC4 receptor.
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Affiliation(s)
- Paolo Grieco
- Department of Pharmacy, University of Naples Federico II, CIRPEB, Centro Interuniversitario di Ricerca sui Peptidi Bioattivi, Via D. Montesano, 49, 80131 Naples, Italy
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25
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Piccialli I, Tedeschi V, Boscia F, Ciccone R, Casamassa A, de Rosa V, Grieco P, Secondo A, Pannaccione A. The Anemonia sulcata Toxin BDS-I Protects Astrocytes Exposed to Aβ 1-42 Oligomers by Restoring [Ca 2+] i Transients and ER Ca 2+ Signaling. Toxins (Basel) 2020; 13:20. [PMID: 33396295 PMCID: PMC7823622 DOI: 10.3390/toxins13010020] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/30/2020] [Revised: 12/22/2020] [Accepted: 12/24/2020] [Indexed: 12/28/2022] Open
Abstract
Intracellular calcium concentration ([Ca2+]i) transients in astrocytes represent a highly plastic signaling pathway underlying the communication between neurons and glial cells. However, how this important phenomenon may be compromised in Alzheimer's disease (AD) remains unexplored. Moreover, the involvement of several K+ channels, including KV3.4 underlying the fast-inactivating currents, has been demonstrated in several AD models. Here, the effect of KV3.4 modulation by the marine toxin blood depressing substance-I (BDS-I) extracted from Anemonia sulcata has been studied on [Ca2+]i transients in rat primary cortical astrocytes exposed to Aβ1-42 oligomers. We showed that: (1) primary cortical astrocytes expressing KV3.4 channels displayed [Ca2+]i transients depending on the occurrence of membrane potential spikes, (2) BDS-I restored, in a dose-dependent way, [Ca2+]i transients in astrocytes exposed to Aβ1-42 oligomers (5 µM/48 h) by inhibiting hyperfunctional KV3.4 channels, (3) BDS-I counteracted Ca2+ overload into the endoplasmic reticulum (ER) induced by Aβ1-42 oligomers, (4) BDS-I prevented the expression of the ER stress markers including active caspase 12 and GRP78/BiP in astrocytes treated with Aβ1-42 oligomers, and (5) BDS-I prevented Aβ1-42-induced reactive oxygen species (ROS) production and cell suffering measured as mitochondrial activity and lactate dehydrogenase (LDH) release. Collectively, we proposed that the marine toxin BDS-I, by inhibiting the hyperfunctional KV3.4 channels and restoring [Ca2+]i oscillation frequency, prevented Aβ1-42-induced ER stress and cell suffering in astrocytes.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ilaria Piccialli
- Division of Pharmacology, Department of Neuroscience, Reproductive and Dentistry Sciences, School of Medicine, Federico II University of Naples, 80131 Napoli, Italy; (I.P.); (V.T.); (F.B.); (R.C.); (A.C.); (V.d.R.)
| | - Valentina Tedeschi
- Division of Pharmacology, Department of Neuroscience, Reproductive and Dentistry Sciences, School of Medicine, Federico II University of Naples, 80131 Napoli, Italy; (I.P.); (V.T.); (F.B.); (R.C.); (A.C.); (V.d.R.)
| | - Francesca Boscia
- Division of Pharmacology, Department of Neuroscience, Reproductive and Dentistry Sciences, School of Medicine, Federico II University of Naples, 80131 Napoli, Italy; (I.P.); (V.T.); (F.B.); (R.C.); (A.C.); (V.d.R.)
| | - Roselia Ciccone
- Division of Pharmacology, Department of Neuroscience, Reproductive and Dentistry Sciences, School of Medicine, Federico II University of Naples, 80131 Napoli, Italy; (I.P.); (V.T.); (F.B.); (R.C.); (A.C.); (V.d.R.)
| | - Antonella Casamassa
- Division of Pharmacology, Department of Neuroscience, Reproductive and Dentistry Sciences, School of Medicine, Federico II University of Naples, 80131 Napoli, Italy; (I.P.); (V.T.); (F.B.); (R.C.); (A.C.); (V.d.R.)
| | - Valeria de Rosa
- Division of Pharmacology, Department of Neuroscience, Reproductive and Dentistry Sciences, School of Medicine, Federico II University of Naples, 80131 Napoli, Italy; (I.P.); (V.T.); (F.B.); (R.C.); (A.C.); (V.d.R.)
| | - Paolo Grieco
- Department of Pharmacy, School of Medicine, Federico II Universityof Naples, 80131 Napoli, Italy;
| | - Agnese Secondo
- Division of Pharmacology, Department of Neuroscience, Reproductive and Dentistry Sciences, School of Medicine, Federico II University of Naples, 80131 Napoli, Italy; (I.P.); (V.T.); (F.B.); (R.C.); (A.C.); (V.d.R.)
| | - Anna Pannaccione
- Division of Pharmacology, Department of Neuroscience, Reproductive and Dentistry Sciences, School of Medicine, Federico II University of Naples, 80131 Napoli, Italy; (I.P.); (V.T.); (F.B.); (R.C.); (A.C.); (V.d.R.)
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Tufano I, Buommino E, Iesce MR, De Filippis A, Grieco P, Lembo F, DellaGreca M. Synthesis of novel lignan-like compounds and their antimicrobial activity. Bioorg Med Chem Lett 2020; 30:127413. [PMID: 32700680 DOI: 10.1016/j.bmcl.2020.127413] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/21/2020] [Revised: 07/03/2020] [Accepted: 07/12/2020] [Indexed: 11/18/2022]
Abstract
Herein we report the preparation of 3,4-dibenzylfurans and some oxidized derivatives with lignan backbone. The compounds were prepared using the Friedel-Crafts reaction with BF3 etherate as catalyst, demethylation with iodocyclohexane, acetylation and oxidation reactions. The antimicrobial activity was evaluated through their capacity to inhibit the growth of Gram positive and Gram negative bacteria, and of the yeast Candida albicans. Among ten products assayed four furans displayed a good antimicrobial activity against Staphylococcus aureus, S. epidermidis and C. albicans; on the contrary, none of the compounds were active against Pseudomonas aeruginosa. One of them inhibited the growth of S. aureus, S. epidermidis (biofilm producer strain) and C. albicans at 16 μg/mL, showing a bactericidal activity already after one hour of treatment. In summary, the results suggest a possible use of these derivatives for general disinfection practices or antimicrobial agents in cosmesis skin-care.
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Affiliation(s)
- Immacolata Tufano
- Department of Chemical Sciences, University Federico II of Naples, Complesso Universitario Monte S. Angelo, via Cinthia, 4, 80126 Naples, Italy; Center for Advanced Biomaterials for Health Care@ CRIB, Istituto Italiano di Tecnologia, Naples, Italy
| | - Elisabetta Buommino
- Department of Pharmacy, University of Naples Federico II, Via Domenico Montesano, 49, 80131 Naples, Italy
| | - Maria Rosaria Iesce
- Department of Chemical Sciences, University Federico II of Naples, Complesso Universitario Monte S. Angelo, via Cinthia, 4, 80126 Naples, Italy
| | - Anna De Filippis
- Department of Pharmacy, University of Naples Federico II, Via Domenico Montesano, 49, 80131 Naples, Italy
| | - Paolo Grieco
- Department of Pharmacy, University of Naples Federico II, Via Domenico Montesano, 49, 80131 Naples, Italy
| | - Francesca Lembo
- Department of Pharmacy, University of Naples Federico II, Via Domenico Montesano, 49, 80131 Naples, Italy
| | - Marina DellaGreca
- Department of Chemical Sciences, University Federico II of Naples, Complesso Universitario Monte S. Angelo, via Cinthia, 4, 80126 Naples, Italy.
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Can V, Locke I, Grieco P, Getting S. AB0068 NOVEL CHONDROPROTECTIVE AND ANTI-INFLAMMATORY EFFECTS OF THE SELECTIVE HUMAN MELANOCORTIN MC3 RECEPTOR AGONIST PG-990 ON SNAP ACTIVATED CHONDROCYTES. Ann Rheum Dis 2020. [DOI: 10.1136/annrheumdis-2020-eular.5264] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/03/2022]
Abstract
Background:Osteoarthritis (OA) is a degenerative joint disease that affects over 250 million people worldwide [1] with treatments focussing on the symptoms rather than the cause of the pathology [2, 3]. Thus, this degenerative joint disease requires novel treatment options [3, 4].Therefore, the melanocortin system [4] could provide a novel avenue to explore given its ability to exert anti-inflammatory effects and chondroprotection [5], although the receptor subtype involved is unclear.Objectives:This study aims to assess the chondroprotective and anti-inflammatory effects of the selective human melanocortin MC1 receptor agonist BMS-470539 dihydrochloride and the selective human MC3 receptor agonist PG-990 on S-Nitroso-N-acetyl-DL-penicillamine (SNAP) activated chondrocytes.Methods:The human chondrocytic cell-line C-20/A4 was seeded at 25.0 x 106viable cells/ml (5 μl droplet was transferred into individual wells of a 96-well plate). Micromass cultures [6] were stimulated with SNAP (1.0 mM) and after 2h treated with Dexamethasone (1.0 μM), selective human melanocortin MC1 receptor agonist BMS-470539 dihydrochloride (10.0 μg/ml) or selective human melanocortin MC3 receptor agonist PG-990 (10.0 μg/ml) for 6h. Cell viability was determined by MTT assay, Caspase -3 and -7 activity determined by Caspase-Glo 3/7 apoptosis assay. Glycosaminoglycan (GAG) content determined by alcian blue staining and anti-inflammatory heme-oxygenase-1 (HO-1) protein expression was determined by western blot. Data are expressed as Mean ±S.E.M ofn=4 samples repeated in triplicate. #p≤0.05vscontrol or *p≤0.05vsstimulus.Results:Cell viability analysis showed SNAP stimulation caused a maximal cell death of 23% (#p≤0.05), Dexamethasone, BMS-470539 dihydrochloride and PG-990 inhibited cell death by 2%, 98% and 129% respectively (*p≤0.05). SNAP stimulation caused a significant increase in Caspase -3 and -7 activity, which was inhibited by Dexamethasone, BMS-470539 dihydrochloride and PG-990 by 8%, 5% and 19% respectively (*p≤0.05). GAG content was significantly reduced by SNAP by 29% (#p≤0.05), which was inhibited by Dexamethasone, BMS-470539 dihydrochloride and PG-990 by 1%, 3% and 14% respectively (*p≤0.05). SNAP also caused a significant decrease in HO-1 protein expression, which was increased by Dexamethasone, BMS-470539 dihydrochloride and PG-990 by a 1.0-fold, 1.1-fold and 2.1-fold increase respectively (*p≤0.05).Conclusion:The selective human melanocortin MC3 receptor agonist PG-990 exhibited enhanced chondroprotection and modulation of inflammatory and tissue destructive mediators following SNAP activation compared to Dexamethasone and the selective human melanocortin MC1 receptor agonist BMS-470539 dihydrochloride. This suggests that melanocortin peptides display enhanced chondroprotective and anti-inflammatory effects at the MC3 receptor sub-type in this cell line.References:[1]Hunter DJ and Bierma-Zeinstra S. (2019).Lancet.393: 1745–59.[2]Can VCet al.(2020).Euro J Pharmacol. doi:https://doi.org/10.1016/j.ejphar.2020.172971.[3]Intekhab-Alam NYet al. (2013).Cell death & disease.4: 1-6.[4]Getting SJet al.(2006).Mol Pharmacol70: 1850-1855.[5]Kaneva MKet al.(2014).Biochem Pharmacol92: 336-47.[6]Greco KVet al.(2011).Biochem Pharmacol82: 1919-29.Disclosure of Interests:None declared
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Brancaccio D, Pizzo E, Cafaro V, Notomista E, De Lise F, Bosso A, Gaglione R, Merlino F, Novellino E, Ungaro F, Grieco P, Malanga M, Quaglia F, Miro A, Carotenuto A. Antimicrobial peptide Temporin-L complexed with anionic cyclodextrins results in a potent and safe agent against sessile bacteria. Int J Pharm 2020; 584:119437. [PMID: 32447024 DOI: 10.1016/j.ijpharm.2020.119437] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/18/2019] [Revised: 05/11/2020] [Accepted: 05/13/2020] [Indexed: 01/05/2023]
Abstract
Concern over antibiotic resistance is growing, and new classes of antibiotics, particularly against Gram-negative bacteria, are needed. Antimicrobial peptides (AMPs) have been proposed as a new class of clinically useful antimicrobials. Special attention has been devoted to frog-skin temporins. In particular, temporin L (TL) is strongly active against Gram-positive, Gram-negative bacteria and yeast strains. With the aim of overcoming some of the main drawbacks preventing the widespread clinical use of this peptide, i.e. toxicity and unfavorable pharmacokinetics profile, we designed new formulations combining TL with different types of cyclodextrins (CDs). TL was associated to a panel of neutral or negatively charged, monomeric and polymeric CDs. The impact of CDs association on TL solubility, as well as the transport through bacterial alginates was assessed. The biocompatibility on human cells together with the antimicrobial and antibiofilm properties of TL/CD systems was explored.
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Affiliation(s)
- Diego Brancaccio
- Department of Pharmacy, University of Naples Federico II, via D. Montesano 49, 80131 Naples, Italy
| | - Elio Pizzo
- Department of Biology, University of Naples Federico II, Naples, Italy
| | - Valeria Cafaro
- Department of Biology, University of Naples Federico II, Naples, Italy
| | - Eugenio Notomista
- Department of Biology, University of Naples Federico II, Naples, Italy
| | - Federica De Lise
- Department of Biology, University of Naples Federico II, Naples, Italy
| | - Andrea Bosso
- Department of Biology, University of Naples Federico II, Naples, Italy
| | - Rosa Gaglione
- Department of Chemical Sciences, University of Naples Federico II, Naples, Italy
| | - Francesco Merlino
- Department of Pharmacy, University of Naples Federico II, via D. Montesano 49, 80131 Naples, Italy
| | - Ettore Novellino
- Department of Pharmacy, University of Naples Federico II, via D. Montesano 49, 80131 Naples, Italy
| | - Francesca Ungaro
- Department of Pharmacy, University of Naples Federico II, via D. Montesano 49, 80131 Naples, Italy
| | - Paolo Grieco
- Department of Pharmacy, University of Naples Federico II, via D. Montesano 49, 80131 Naples, Italy
| | - Milo Malanga
- Cyclolab Cyclodextrin R&D Laboratory Ltd., H-1097 Illatos St. 7., Budapest, Hungary
| | - Fabiana Quaglia
- Department of Pharmacy, University of Naples Federico II, via D. Montesano 49, 80131 Naples, Italy
| | - Agnese Miro
- Department of Pharmacy, University of Naples Federico II, via D. Montesano 49, 80131 Naples, Italy.
| | - Alfonso Carotenuto
- Department of Pharmacy, University of Naples Federico II, via D. Montesano 49, 80131 Naples, Italy.
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Ahmadi S, Dabbagh HA, Grieco P, Balalaie S. A cystine-based dual chemosensor for fluorescent-colorimetric detection of CN - and fluorescent detection of Fe 3+ in aqueous media: Synthesis, spectroscopic, and DFT studies. Spectrochim Acta A Mol Biomol Spectrosc 2020; 228:117696. [PMID: 31761545 DOI: 10.1016/j.saa.2019.117696] [Citation(s) in RCA: 16] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.0] [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: 02/07/2019] [Revised: 10/16/2019] [Accepted: 10/24/2019] [Indexed: 05/25/2023]
Abstract
A new dual-responsive chiral cystine based chemosensor, Cys(cou)2, has been designed and characterized by 1H NMR, 13C NMR, FT-IR, UV-vis as well as elemental analysis. This sensor exhibited an excellent response towards Fe3+ and CN- with high selectivity and sensitivity by fluorescence turn-off mechanism. The binding mode of Cys(cou)2 with Fe3+, and CN- was confirmed by ESI-MS, 1H NMR, and fluorescence titration and also quantum chemical calculation. These results showed that the stoichiometric ratio of Cys(cou)2-Fe3+ and Cys(cou)2-CN is 1:1 and 1:3 in DMSO/Tris aqueous buffer (1:1, v/v), respectively. The linear relationship of the Stern-Volmer plot illustrates the static quenching mechanism at different concentrations. The detection limit (LOD) and binding constant (Ka) for Fe3+ and CN- are 0.029 μM, 1.28 × 104 and 0.51 μM, 9.94 × 106, respectively. Moreover, Cys(cou)2 can act as a colorimetric sensor for CN- in DMSO with the color change from colorless to yellow.
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Affiliation(s)
- Samaneh Ahmadi
- Department of Chemistry, Isfahan University of Technology, Isfahan, 84156-83111, Iran
| | - Hossein A Dabbagh
- Department of Chemistry, Isfahan University of Technology, Isfahan, 84156-83111, Iran.
| | - Paolo Grieco
- Department of Pharmacy, University of Naples "Federico II,", Via D. Montesano 49, 80131, Naples, Italy.
| | - Saeed Balalaie
- Peptide Chemistry Research Center, K. N. Toosi University of Technology, P. O. Box 15875-4416, Tehran, Iran.
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Can VC, Locke IC, Kaneva MK, Kerrigan MJP, Merlino F, De Pascale C, Grieco P, Getting SJ. Novel anti-inflammatory and chondroprotective effects of the human melanocortin MC1 receptor agonist BMS-470539 dihydrochloride and human melanocortin MC3 receptor agonist PG-990 on lipopolysaccharide activated chondrocytes. Eur J Pharmacol 2020; 872:172971. [PMID: 32004526 DOI: 10.1016/j.ejphar.2020.172971] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/04/2019] [Revised: 01/15/2020] [Accepted: 01/27/2020] [Indexed: 12/01/2022]
Abstract
Human melanocortin MC1 and MC3 receptors expressed on C-20/A4 chondrocytes exhibit chondroprotective and anti-inflammatory effects when activated by melanocortin peptides. Nearly 9 million people in the UK suffer from osteoarthritis, and bacterial infections play a role in its development. Here, we evaluate the effect of a panel of melanocortin peptides with different selectivity for human melanocortin MC1 (α-MSH, BMS-470539 dihydrochloride) and MC3 ([DTrp8]-γ-MSH, PG-990) receptors and C-terminal peptide α-MSH11-13(KPV), on inhibiting LPS-induced chondrocyte death, pro-inflammatory mediators and induction of anti-inflammatory proteins. C-20/A4 chondrocytes were treated with a panel of melanocortin peptides prophylactically and therapeutically in presence of LPS (0.1 μg/ml). The chondroprotective properties of these peptides determined by cell viability assay, RT-PCR, ELISA for detection of changes in inflammatory markers (IL-6, IL-8 and MMP-1, -3 and -13) and western blotting for expression of the anti-inflammatory protein heme-oxygenase-1. C-20/A4 expressed human melanocortin MC1 and MC3 receptors and melanocortin peptides elevated cAMP. LPS stimulation caused a reduction in C-20/A4 viability, attenuated by the human melanocortin MC1 receptor agonist BMS-470539 dihydrochloride, and MC3 receptor agonists PG-990 and [DTrp8]-γ-MSH. Prophylactic and therapeutic regimes of [DTrp8]-γ-MSH significantly inhibited LPS-induced modulation of cartilage-damaging IL-6, IL-8, MMPs -1,-3 and -13 mediators both prophylactically and therapeutically, whilst human melanocortin MC1 and MC3 receptor agonists promoted an increase in HO-1 production. In the presence of LPS, activation of human melanocortin MC1 and MC3 receptors provided potent chondroprotection, upregulation of anti-inflammatory proteins and downregulation of inflammatory and proteolytic mediators involved in cartilage degradation, suggesting a new avenue for osteoarthritis treatment.
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Affiliation(s)
- Vedia C Can
- College of Liberal Arts and Sciences, School of Life Sciences, University of Westminster, 115 New Cavendish Street, London, W1W 6UW, UK
| | - Ian C Locke
- College of Liberal Arts and Sciences, School of Life Sciences, University of Westminster, 115 New Cavendish Street, London, W1W 6UW, UK
| | - Magdalena K Kaneva
- William Harvey Research Institute, Barts and the London School of Medicine and Dentistry, Queen Mary University of London, London, UK
| | - Mark J P Kerrigan
- Plymouth College of Art, Tavistock Place, Plymouth, Devon, PL4 8AT, UK
| | - Francesco Merlino
- Department of Pharmacy, University of Naples, Via D. Montesano, 49 - 80131, Naples, Italy
| | - Clara De Pascale
- College of Liberal Arts and Sciences, School of Life Sciences, University of Westminster, 115 New Cavendish Street, London, W1W 6UW, UK
| | - Paolo Grieco
- Department of Pharmacy, University of Naples, Via D. Montesano, 49 - 80131, Naples, Italy
| | - Stephen J Getting
- College of Liberal Arts and Sciences, School of Life Sciences, University of Westminster, 115 New Cavendish Street, London, W1W 6UW, UK.
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Bellavita R, Raucci F, Merlino F, Piccolo M, Ferraro MG, Irace C, Santamaria R, Iqbal AJ, Novellino E, Grieco P, Mascolo N, Maione F. Temporin L-derived peptide as a regulator of the acute inflammatory response in zymosan-induced peritonitis. Biomed Pharmacother 2019; 123:109788. [PMID: 31865142 DOI: 10.1016/j.biopha.2019.109788] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/11/2019] [Revised: 12/08/2019] [Accepted: 12/09/2019] [Indexed: 01/29/2023] Open
Abstract
Antimicrobial peptides (AMPs) are an ancient group of defense molecules distributed in nature being found in mammals, birds, amphibians, insects, plants, and microorganisms. They display antimicrobial as well as immunomodulatory properties. The aim of this study was to investigate, for the first time, the anti-inflammatory activities of two synthetic temporin-L analogues (here named peptide 1 and 2) by an in vivo model of inflammation caused by intraperitoneal sub-lethal dose of zymosan. Our results show that peptide 1 and 2 exert anti-inflammatory activity in vivo in response to zymosan-induce peritonitis. Simultaneous administration of 10 mg/kg of both temporins, with a sub-lethal dose of zymosan (500 mg/kg), significantly rescued mice from the classical hallmarks of inflammation, including leukocyte infiltration and synthesis of inflammatory mediators including IL-6, TNF-α and MCP-1. More importantly, flow cytometry analysis highlighted a selective modulation of infiltrating inflammatory monocytes (defined as B220-/GR1hi-F480hi/CD115+) after peptide 2 treatment. Our results and presented models offer the possibility to test, in a preclinical setting, the potential of temporin analogues as anti-inflammatory agents.
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Affiliation(s)
- Rosa Bellavita
- Department of Pharmacy, School of Medicine and Surgery, University of Naples Federico II, Via Domenico Montesano 49, 80131, Naples, Italy
| | - Federica Raucci
- Department of Pharmacy, School of Medicine and Surgery, University of Naples Federico II, Via Domenico Montesano 49, 80131, Naples, Italy
| | - Francesco Merlino
- Department of Pharmacy, School of Medicine and Surgery, University of Naples Federico II, Via Domenico Montesano 49, 80131, Naples, Italy
| | - Marialuisa Piccolo
- Department of Pharmacy, School of Medicine and Surgery, University of Naples Federico II, Via Domenico Montesano 49, 80131, Naples, Italy
| | - Maria Grazia Ferraro
- Department of Pharmacy, School of Medicine and Surgery, University of Naples Federico II, Via Domenico Montesano 49, 80131, Naples, Italy
| | - Carlo Irace
- Department of Pharmacy, School of Medicine and Surgery, University of Naples Federico II, Via Domenico Montesano 49, 80131, Naples, Italy
| | - Rita Santamaria
- Department of Pharmacy, School of Medicine and Surgery, University of Naples Federico II, Via Domenico Montesano 49, 80131, Naples, Italy
| | - Asif J Iqbal
- Institute of Cardiovascular Sciences (ICVS), College of Medical and Dental Sciences, University of Birmingham, Birmingham, B15 2TT, UK
| | - Ettore Novellino
- Department of Pharmacy, School of Medicine and Surgery, University of Naples Federico II, Via Domenico Montesano 49, 80131, Naples, Italy
| | - Paolo Grieco
- Department of Pharmacy, School of Medicine and Surgery, University of Naples Federico II, Via Domenico Montesano 49, 80131, Naples, Italy.
| | - Nicola Mascolo
- Department of Pharmacy, School of Medicine and Surgery, University of Naples Federico II, Via Domenico Montesano 49, 80131, Naples, Italy
| | - Francesco Maione
- Department of Pharmacy, School of Medicine and Surgery, University of Naples Federico II, Via Domenico Montesano 49, 80131, Naples, Italy.
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Merlino F, Tomassi S, Yousif AM, Messere A, Marinelli L, Grieco P, Novellino E, Cosconati S, Di Maro S. Boosting Fmoc Solid-Phase Peptide Synthesis by Ultrasonication. Org Lett 2019; 21:6378-6382. [DOI: 10.1021/acs.orglett.9b02283] [Citation(s) in RCA: 29] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/28/2022]
Affiliation(s)
- Francesco Merlino
- Dipartimento di Farmacia, Università degli Studi di Napoli “Federico II”, via D. Montesano 49, 80131 Naples, Italy
| | - Stefano Tomassi
- DiSTABiF, Università degli Studi della Campania “Luigi Vanvitelli”, via A. Vivaldi 43, 81100 Caserta, Italy
| | - Ali M. Yousif
- Dipartimento di Farmacia, Università degli Studi di Napoli “Federico II”, via D. Montesano 49, 80131 Naples, Italy
| | - Anna Messere
- DiSTABiF, Università degli Studi della Campania “Luigi Vanvitelli”, via A. Vivaldi 43, 81100 Caserta, Italy
| | - Luciana Marinelli
- Dipartimento di Farmacia, Università degli Studi di Napoli “Federico II”, via D. Montesano 49, 80131 Naples, Italy
| | - Paolo Grieco
- Dipartimento di Farmacia, Università degli Studi di Napoli “Federico II”, via D. Montesano 49, 80131 Naples, Italy
| | - Ettore Novellino
- Dipartimento di Farmacia, Università degli Studi di Napoli “Federico II”, via D. Montesano 49, 80131 Naples, Italy
| | - Sandro Cosconati
- DiSTABiF, Università degli Studi della Campania “Luigi Vanvitelli”, via A. Vivaldi 43, 81100 Caserta, Italy
| | - Salvatore Di Maro
- DiSTABiF, Università degli Studi della Campania “Luigi Vanvitelli”, via A. Vivaldi 43, 81100 Caserta, Italy
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Gravina AG, Dallio M, Tuccillo C, Martorano M, Abenavoli L, Luzza F, Stiuso P, Lama S, Grieco P, Merlino F, Caraglia M, Loguercio C, Federico A. Urotensin II receptor expression in patients with ulcerative colitis: a pilot study. MINERVA GASTROENTERO 2019; 66:23-28. [PMID: 31293119 DOI: 10.23736/s1121-421x.19.02602-3] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/16/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Urotensin II (U-II) is a vasoactive peptide that interacts with a specific receptor named UTR. Recently, our group has demonstrated increased UTR expression in both human colon adenocarcinoma cell lines and adenomatous polyps, as well as in colon carcinoma samples if compared to healthy colon samples of the same patients. We also showed that an UTR agonist induced an increase in colon adenocarcinoma cell growth in vitro, whereas the UTR block with a specific antagonist caused an inhibition of their growth and an inhibition of about 50% of both motility and cell invasion. Ulcerative colitis (UC) is an inflammatory bowel disease (IBD) associated with an increased baseline risk for colon cancer compared with the general population, and this risk is mostly attributed to chronic inflammation and immune dysregulation. This risk increases along with the duration of the disease, as demonstrated by many studies. There are no UTR expression data related to UC, and we therefore evaluated UTR expression in ill colon biopsies and in healthy colon ones of patients with UC and colon biopsies of healthy patients. METHODS We enrolled, prior to informed consent, 11 patients (5 males and 6 females, age range 29-75 years, median age 52 years) with first UC diagnosis compared to 11 healthy controls (6 males and 5 females, age range 30-78 years, median age 55 years). We have therefore sampled inflammatory and healthy tissue in UC patients. We have also taken colic tissue samples in healthy subjects. Evaluation of receptor expression was performed by reverse transcription-polymerase chain reaction (RT-PCR), Western Blot analysis. The ANOVA Test (P<0.05) was used for statistical analysis. RESULTS We found: 1) increased expression of UTR in 11/11 UC patients with ill mucosa biopsies compared to healthy controls in RT-PCR and in Western Blot analysis; 2) increased UTR expression in 11/11 UC patients with ill colon biopsies compared to the results obtained from healthy colon biopsies of the same patients both in RT-PCR and in Western Blot analysis; 3) increased UTR expression in 9/11 UC patients healthy colon biopsy specimens compared to healthy controls. CONCLUSIONS UTR could be considered as an inflammatory UC disease marker because its expression is greater in the mucosa of ill colon than in the healthy colon of the same patients and compared to healthy controls.
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Affiliation(s)
- Antonietta G Gravina
- Department of Precision Medicine, Luigi Vanvitelli University of Campania, Naples, Italy -
| | - Marcello Dallio
- Department of Precision Medicine, Luigi Vanvitelli University of Campania, Naples, Italy
| | - Concetta Tuccillo
- Department of Precision Medicine, Luigi Vanvitelli University of Campania, Naples, Italy
| | - Marco Martorano
- Unit of Gastroenterology and Endoscopy, Immacolata Hospital, Sapri, Salerno, Italy
| | - Ludovico Abenavoli
- Department of Health Sciences, Magna Grecia University, Catanzaro, Italy
| | - Francesco Luzza
- Department of Health Sciences, Magna Grecia University, Catanzaro, Italy
| | - Paola Stiuso
- Department of Precision Medicine, Luigi Vanvitelli University of Campania, Naples, Italy
| | - Stefania Lama
- Department of Precision Medicine, Luigi Vanvitelli University of Campania, Naples, Italy
| | - Paolo Grieco
- Department of Pharmacy, Federico II University, Naples, Italy
| | | | - Michele Caraglia
- Department of Precision Medicine, Luigi Vanvitelli University of Campania, Naples, Italy
| | - Carmelina Loguercio
- Department of Precision Medicine, Luigi Vanvitelli University of Campania, Naples, Italy
| | - Alessandro Federico
- Department of Precision Medicine, Luigi Vanvitelli University of Campania, Naples, Italy
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Ciccone R, Piccialli I, Grieco P, Merlino F, Annunziato L, Pannaccione A. Synthesis and Pharmacological Evaluation of a Novel Peptide Based on Anemonia sulcata BDS-I Toxin as a New K V3.4 Inhibitor Exerting a Neuroprotective Effect Against Amyloid-β Peptide. Front Chem 2019; 7:479. [PMID: 31338361 PMCID: PMC6629785 DOI: 10.3389/fchem.2019.00479] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.6] [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: 04/30/2019] [Accepted: 06/21/2019] [Indexed: 12/28/2022] Open
Abstract
There is increasing evidence that the fast-inactivating potassium current IA, encoded by KV3. 4 channels, plays an important role in Alzheimer's Disease (AD), since the neurotoxic β-amyloid peptide1-42 (Aβ1-42) increases the IA current triggering apoptotic processes. The specific inhibition of KV3.4 by the marine toxin extracted from Anemonia sulcata, named blood depressing substance-I (BDS-I), reverts the Aβ peptide-induced cell death. The aim of the present study was to identify the smallest fragments of BDS-I, obtained by peptide synthesis, able to inhibit KV3.4 currents. For this purpose, whole-cell patch clamp technique was used to evaluate the effects of BDS-I fragments on KV3.4 currents in CHO cells heterologously expressing KV3.4. We found that BDS-I[1-8] fragment, containing the N-terminal octapeptide sequence of full length BDS-I, was able to inhibit KV3.4 currents in a concentration dependent manner, whereas the scrambled sequence of BDS-I[1-8] and all the other fragments obtained from BDS-I full length were ineffective. As we demonstrated in a previous study, BDS-I full length is able to counteract Aβ1-42-induced enhancement of KV3.4 activity, preventing Aβ1-42-induced caspase-3 activation and the abnormal nuclear morphology in NGF-differentiated PC-12 cells. Similarly to BDS-I, we found that BDS-I[1-8] blocking KV3.4 currents prevented Aβ1-42-induced caspase-3 activation and apoptotic processes. Collectively, these results suggest that BDS-I[1-8] could represent a lead compound to be developed as a new drug targeting KV3.4 channels.
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Affiliation(s)
- Roselia Ciccone
- Division of Pharmacology, Department of Neuroscience, Reproductive and Dentistry Sciences, School of Medicine, Federico II University of Naples, Naples, Italy
| | - Ilaria Piccialli
- Division of Pharmacology, Department of Neuroscience, Reproductive and Dentistry Sciences, School of Medicine, Federico II University of Naples, Naples, Italy
| | - Paolo Grieco
- Department of Pharmacy, University of Naples Federico II, Naples, Italy
| | - Francesco Merlino
- Department of Pharmacy, University of Naples Federico II, Naples, Italy
| | | | - Anna Pannaccione
- Division of Pharmacology, Department of Neuroscience, Reproductive and Dentistry Sciences, School of Medicine, Federico II University of Naples, Naples, Italy
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35
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Buommino E, Carotenuto A, Antignano I, Bellavita R, Casciaro B, Loffredo MR, Merlino F, Novellino E, Mangoni ML, Nocera FP, Brancaccio D, Punzi P, Roversi D, Ingenito R, Bianchi E, Grieco P. The Outcomes of Decorated Prolines in the Discovery of Antimicrobial Peptides from Temporin-L. ChemMedChem 2019; 14:1283-1290. [PMID: 31087626 DOI: 10.1002/cmdc.201900221] [Citation(s) in RCA: 19] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/08/2019] [Revised: 05/12/2019] [Indexed: 01/17/2023]
Abstract
Previously, we identified a potent antimicrobial analogue of temporin L (TL), [Pro3 ]TL, in which glutamine at position 3 was substituted with proline. In this study, a series of analogues in which position 3 is substituted with non-natural proline derivatives, was investigated for correlations between the conformational properties of the compounds and their antibacterial, cytotoxic, and hemolytic activities. Non-natural proline analogues with substituents at position 4 of the pyrrolidine ring were considered. Structure-activity relationship (SAR) studies of these analogues were performed by means of antimicrobial and cytotoxicity assays along with circular dichroism (CD) and NMR spectroscopic analyses for selected compounds. The most promising peptides were additionally evaluated for their activity against some representative veterinary microbial strains to compare with those from human strains. We identified novel analogues with interesting properties that make them attractive lead compounds.
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Affiliation(s)
- Elisabetta Buommino
- Department of Pharmacy, University of Naples "Federico II", Naples, 80131, Italy
| | - Alfonso Carotenuto
- Department of Pharmacy, University of Naples "Federico II", Naples, 80131, Italy
| | - Ignazio Antignano
- Department of Pharmacy, University of Naples "Federico II", Naples, 80131, Italy
| | - Rosa Bellavita
- Department of Pharmacy, University of Naples "Federico II", Naples, 80131, Italy
| | - Bruno Casciaro
- Department of Biochemical Sciences, Laboratory affiliated to Pasteur Institute Italia-Fondazione Cenci Bolognetti, Sapienza University of Rome, Rome, 00185, Italy.,Center for Life Nano Science, Istituto Italiano di Tecnologia, Rome, 00161, Italy
| | - Maria Rosa Loffredo
- Department of Biochemical Sciences, Laboratory affiliated to Pasteur Institute Italia-Fondazione Cenci Bolognetti, Sapienza University of Rome, Rome, 00185, Italy
| | - Francesco Merlino
- Department of Pharmacy, University of Naples "Federico II", Naples, 80131, Italy
| | - Ettore Novellino
- Department of Pharmacy, University of Naples "Federico II", Naples, 80131, Italy
| | - Maria Luisa Mangoni
- Department of Biochemical Sciences, Laboratory affiliated to Pasteur Institute Italia-Fondazione Cenci Bolognetti, Sapienza University of Rome, Rome, 00185, Italy
| | - Francesca Paola Nocera
- Department of Veterinary Medicine and Animal Production, University of Naples "Federico II", Naples, 80137, Italy
| | - Diego Brancaccio
- Department of Pharmacy, University of Naples "Federico II", Naples, 80131, Italy
| | - Pasqualina Punzi
- Peptide Chemistry Unit, IRBM S.p.A., via Pontina km 30 600, Pomezia, 00071, Italy
| | - Daniela Roversi
- Peptide Chemistry Unit, IRBM S.p.A., via Pontina km 30 600, Pomezia, 00071, Italy
| | - Raffaele Ingenito
- Peptide Chemistry Unit, IRBM S.p.A., via Pontina km 30 600, Pomezia, 00071, Italy
| | - Elisabetta Bianchi
- Peptide Chemistry Unit, IRBM S.p.A., via Pontina km 30 600, Pomezia, 00071, Italy
| | - Paolo Grieco
- Department of Pharmacy, University of Naples "Federico II", Naples, 80131, Italy.,Centro Interuniversitario di Ricerca sui Peptidi Bioattivi (CIRPEB), University of Naples "Federico II", Naples, 80134, Italy
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36
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Caporale A, Bolzati C, Incisivo GM, Salvarese N, Grieco P, Ruvo M. Improved synthesis on solid phase of dithiocarbamic cRGD-derivative and 99m Tc-radiolabelling. J Pept Sci 2019; 25:e3140. [PMID: 30680876 DOI: 10.1002/psc.3140] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/11/2018] [Revised: 10/20/2018] [Accepted: 11/20/2018] [Indexed: 01/19/2023]
Abstract
In the field of angiogenesis, small cyclic pentapeptides containing the RGD motif are playing a relevant role for their high affinity and specificity for integrin receptors and for the possibility to act at both therapeutic and diagnostic level by inhibiting pathological angiogenesis and by serving as shuttles to deliver imaging-probe including SPECT/PET radionuclides to specific tissues. In the last decade, several new protocols were reported in literature for the direct synthesis of cyclic RDG either in solution or by SPPS. Here, we have elaborated and tested some alternative approaches using different resins and different protective groups. The introduction of the dithiocarbamate function, useful to complex radio-metals suitable for nuclear medicine applications, has also been considered and achieved.
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Affiliation(s)
- Andrea Caporale
- IBB-CNR, Naples, 80134, Italy.,Univ. di Napoli "Federico II", CIRPeB, Naples, 80134, Italy
| | | | | | | | - Paolo Grieco
- Univ. di Napoli "Federico II", CIRPeB, Naples, 80134, Italy.,Dept. Pharmacy, Univ. di Napoli "Federico II", Naples, 80131, Italy
| | - Menotti Ruvo
- IBB-CNR, Naples, 80134, Italy.,Univ. di Napoli "Federico II", CIRPeB, Naples, 80134, Italy
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37
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Merlino F, Billard É, Yousif AM, Di Maro S, Brancaccio D, Abate L, Carotenuto A, Bellavita R, d'Emmanuele di Villa Bianca R, Santicioli P, Marinelli L, Novellino E, Hébert TE, Lubell WD, Chatenet D, Grieco P. Functional Selectivity Revealed by N-Methylation Scanning of Human Urotensin II and Related Peptides. J Med Chem 2019; 62:1455-1467. [PMID: 30615452 DOI: 10.1021/acs.jmedchem.8b01601] [Citation(s) in RCA: 13] [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: 12/13/2022]
Abstract
In accordance with their common but also divergent physiological actions, human urotensin II (1) and urotensin II-related peptide (2) could stabilize specific urotensin II receptor (UTR) conformations, thereby activating different signaling pathways, a feature referred to as biased agonism or functional selectivity. Sequential N-methylation of the amides in the conserved core sequence of 1, 2, and fragment U-II4-11 (3) shed light on structural requirements involved in their functional selectivity. Thus, 18 N-methylated UTR ligands were synthesized and their biological profiles evaluated using in vitro competition binding assays, ex vivo rat aortic ring bioassays and BRET-based biosensor experiments. Biological activity diverged from that of the parent structures contingent on the location of amide methylation, indicating relevant hydrogen-bond interactions for the function of the endogenous peptides. Conformational analysis of selected N-methyl analogs indicated the importance of specific amide residues of 2 for the distinct pharmacology relative to 1 and 3.
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Affiliation(s)
- Francesco Merlino
- Department of Pharmacy , University of Naples "Federico II" , via D. Montesano 49 , Naples 80131 , Italy
| | - Étienne Billard
- INRS-Institut Armand-Frappier, Groupe de Recherche en Ingénierie des Peptides et en Pharmacothérapie (GRIPP) , Université du Québec , 531 Boulevard des Prairies , Ville de Laval , Québec H7V 1B7 , Canada
| | - Ali M Yousif
- Department of Pharmacy , University of Naples "Federico II" , via D. Montesano 49 , Naples 80131 , Italy
| | - Salvatore Di Maro
- Department of Pharmacy , University of Naples "Federico II" , via D. Montesano 49 , Naples 80131 , Italy
| | - Diego Brancaccio
- Department of Pharmacy , University of Naples "Federico II" , via D. Montesano 49 , Naples 80131 , Italy
| | - Luigi Abate
- Department of Pharmacy , University of Naples "Federico II" , via D. Montesano 49 , Naples 80131 , Italy
| | - Alfonso Carotenuto
- Department of Pharmacy , University of Naples "Federico II" , via D. Montesano 49 , Naples 80131 , Italy
| | - Rosa Bellavita
- Department of Pharmacy , University of Naples "Federico II" , via D. Montesano 49 , Naples 80131 , Italy
| | | | - Paolo Santicioli
- Department of Pharmacology , Menarini Ricerche , via Rismondo 12/A , Florence 50131 , Italy
| | - Luciana Marinelli
- Department of Pharmacy , University of Naples "Federico II" , via D. Montesano 49 , Naples 80131 , Italy
| | - Ettore Novellino
- Department of Pharmacy , University of Naples "Federico II" , via D. Montesano 49 , Naples 80131 , Italy
| | - Terence E Hébert
- Department of Pharmacology and Therapeutics , McGill University , Montréal , Québec H3A 1A3 , Canada
| | - William D Lubell
- Département de Chimie , Université de Montréal , C.P. 6128, Station Centre-ville , Montréal , Québec H3C 3J7 , Canada
| | - David Chatenet
- INRS-Institut Armand-Frappier, Groupe de Recherche en Ingénierie des Peptides et en Pharmacothérapie (GRIPP) , Université du Québec , 531 Boulevard des Prairies , Ville de Laval , Québec H7V 1B7 , Canada
| | - Paolo Grieco
- Department of Pharmacy , University of Naples "Federico II" , via D. Montesano 49 , Naples 80131 , Italy
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38
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Caporale A, Martin AD, Capasso D, Focà G, Sandomenico A, D'Andrea LD, Grieco P, Ruvo M, Doti N. Short
PlGF
‐derived peptides bind
VEGFR
‐1 and
VEGFR
‐2 in vitro and on the surface of endothelial cells. J Pept Sci 2019; 25:e3146. [DOI: 10.1002/psc.3146] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/16/2018] [Revised: 12/14/2018] [Accepted: 12/17/2018] [Indexed: 12/31/2022]
Affiliation(s)
- Andrea Caporale
- Istituto di Biostrutture e Bioimmagini—CNR and CIRPEB Naples Italy
| | - Aaron D. Martin
- SensiQ Technologies, Inc. 800 Research Pkwy Oklahoma City OK 73104 USA
| | - Dominga Capasso
- Dipartimento di FarmaciaUniversità degli Studi di Napoli “Federico II” Naples Italy
| | - Giuseppina Focà
- Istituto di Biostrutture e Bioimmagini—CNR and CIRPEB Naples Italy
| | | | | | - Paolo Grieco
- Dipartimento di FarmaciaUniversità degli Studi di Napoli “Federico II” Naples Italy
| | - Menotti Ruvo
- Istituto di Biostrutture e Bioimmagini—CNR and CIRPEB Naples Italy
| | - Nuzianna Doti
- Istituto di Biostrutture e Bioimmagini—CNR and CIRPEB Naples Italy
- Dipartimento di FarmaciaUniversità degli Studi di Napoli “Federico II” Naples Italy
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39
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Scala MC, Spensiero A, Pepe G, Bertamino A, Carotenuto A, Grieco P, Novellino E, Gomez-Monterrey IM, Campiglia P, Sala M. Investigation on side-product formation during the synthesis of a lactoferrin-derived lactam-bridged cyclic peptide. Amino Acids 2018; 50:1367-1375. [PMID: 29974257 DOI: 10.1007/s00726-018-2612-9] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/10/2018] [Accepted: 06/28/2018] [Indexed: 11/24/2022]
Abstract
Bovine lactoferrin C-lobe is able to prevent both influenza virus hemagglutination and cell infection. In particular, it was demonstrated that the fragment 418SKHSSLDCVLRP429 is a potent antiviral peptide. Therefore, we tried to increase the stability of this fragment through side-chain lactam cyclization of the peptide, S[KHSSLD]CVLRP (1). However, classic strategy involving solid-supported cyclization of the linear precursor, containing orthogonal allyl/alloc-based protection for the key amino and carboxyl residues, did not provide the desired cyclic peptide. Here, we report the identification of problematic stretches during the sequence assembly process and the optimization of the different parameters involved in the construction of 1. Results indicated a significant influence of β-protecting group of both aspartic acid and adjacent cysteine residues on the formation of side products. Therefore, the identification of suitable β-protecting groups of these residues allowed us to optimize the synthesis of designed lactam-bridged cyclic peptide.
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Affiliation(s)
- Maria Carmina Scala
- Dipartimento di Farmacia, Università degli Studi di Salerno, 84084, Fisciano, SA, Italy
| | - Antonia Spensiero
- Dipartimento di Farmacia, Università degli Studi di Salerno, 84084, Fisciano, SA, Italy
| | - Giacomo Pepe
- Dipartimento di Farmacia, Università degli Studi di Salerno, 84084, Fisciano, SA, Italy
| | - Alessia Bertamino
- Dipartimento di Farmacia, Università degli Studi di Salerno, 84084, Fisciano, SA, Italy
| | - Alfonso Carotenuto
- Dipartimento di Farmacia, Università degli Studi di Napoli "Federico II", 80131, Naples, Italy
| | - Paolo Grieco
- Dipartimento di Farmacia, Università degli Studi di Napoli "Federico II", 80131, Naples, Italy
| | - Ettore Novellino
- Dipartimento di Farmacia, Università degli Studi di Napoli "Federico II", 80131, Naples, Italy
| | | | - Pietro Campiglia
- Dipartimento di Farmacia, Università degli Studi di Salerno, 84084, Fisciano, SA, Italy
| | - Marina Sala
- Dipartimento di Farmacia, Università degli Studi di Salerno, 84084, Fisciano, SA, Italy.
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40
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Merlino F, Zhou Y, Cai M, Carotenuto A, Yousif AM, Brancaccio D, Di Maro S, Zappavigna S, Limatola A, Novellino E, Grieco P, Hruby VJ. Development of Macrocyclic Peptidomimetics Containing Constrained α,α-Dialkylated Amino Acids with Potent and Selective Activity at Human Melanocortin Receptors. J Med Chem 2018; 61:4263-4269. [PMID: 29660981 DOI: 10.1021/acs.jmedchem.8b00488] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/20/2022]
Abstract
We report the development of macrocyclic melanocortin derivatives of MT-II and SHU-9119, achieved by modifying the cycle dimension and incorporating constrained amino acids in ring-closing. This study culminated in the discovery of novel agonists/antagonists with an unprecedented activity profile by adding pieces to the puzzle of the melanocortin receptor selectivity. Finally, the resulting 19- and 20-membered rings represent a suitable frame for the design of further therapeutic ligands as selective modulators of the melanocortin system.
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Affiliation(s)
- Francesco Merlino
- Department of Pharmacy , University of Naples "Federico II" , Via D. Montesano 49 , 80131 Naples , Italy
| | - Yang Zhou
- Department of Chemistry and Biochemistry , University of Arizona , 1306 E. University Boulevard , Tucson , Arizona 85721 , United States
| | - Minying Cai
- Department of Chemistry and Biochemistry , University of Arizona , 1306 E. University Boulevard , Tucson , Arizona 85721 , United States
| | - Alfonso Carotenuto
- Department of Pharmacy , University of Naples "Federico II" , Via D. Montesano 49 , 80131 Naples , Italy
| | - Ali M Yousif
- Department of Pharmacy , University of Naples "Federico II" , Via D. Montesano 49 , 80131 Naples , Italy
| | - Diego Brancaccio
- Department of Pharmacy , University of Naples "Federico II" , Via D. Montesano 49 , 80131 Naples , Italy
| | - Salvatore Di Maro
- DiSTABiF , University of Campania "Luigi Vanvitelli" , Via Vivaldi 43 , 81100 Caserta , Italy
| | - Silvia Zappavigna
- Department of Precision Medicine , University of Campania "Luigi Vanvitelli" , Via Costantinopoli 16 , 80138 Naples , Italy
| | - Antonio Limatola
- Department of Biology , Stanford University , Stanford , California 94305 , United States
| | - Ettore Novellino
- Department of Pharmacy , University of Naples "Federico II" , Via D. Montesano 49 , 80131 Naples , Italy
| | - Paolo Grieco
- Department of Pharmacy , University of Naples "Federico II" , Via D. Montesano 49 , 80131 Naples , Italy
| | - Victor J Hruby
- Department of Chemistry and Biochemistry , University of Arizona , 1306 E. University Boulevard , Tucson , Arizona 85721 , United States
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41
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Ingangi V, Bifulco K, Yousif AM, Ragone C, Motti ML, Rea D, Minopoli M, Botti G, Scognamiglio G, Fazioli F, Gallo M, De Chiara A, Arra C, Grieco P, Carriero MV. The urokinase receptor-derived cyclic peptide [SRSRY] suppresses neovascularization and intravasation of osteosarcoma and chondrosarcoma cells. Oncotarget 2018; 7:54474-54487. [PMID: 27323409 PMCID: PMC5342356 DOI: 10.18632/oncotarget.9976] [Citation(s) in RCA: 14] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.3] [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: 04/18/2016] [Accepted: 05/20/2016] [Indexed: 12/18/2022] Open
Abstract
The receptor for the urokinase-type plasminogen activator (uPAR) is a widely recognized master regulator of cell migration and uPAR88–92 is the minimal sequence required to induce cell motility and angiogenesis by interacting with the formyl peptide receptor type 1 (FPR1). In this study, we present evidence that the cyclization of the uPAR88–92 sequence generates a new potent inhibitor of migration, and extracellular matrix invasion of human osteosarcoma and chondrosarcoma cells expressing comparable levels of FPR1 on cell surface. In vitro, the cyclized peptide [SRSRY] prevents formation of capillary-like tubes by endothelial cells co-cultured with chondrosarcoma cells and trans-endothelial migration of osteosarcoma and chondrosarcoma cells. When chondrosarcoma cells were subcutaneously injected in nude mice, tumor size, intra-tumoral microvessel density and circulating tumor cells in blood samples collected before the sacrifice, were significantly reduced in animals treated daily with i.p-administration of 6 mg/Kg [SRSRY] as compared to animals treated with vehicle only. Our findings indicate that [SRSRY] prevents three key events occurring during the metastatic process of osteosarcoma and chondrosarcoma cells: the extracellular matrix invasion, the formation of a capillary network and the entry into bloodstream.
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Affiliation(s)
- Vincenzo Ingangi
- Neoplastic Progression Unit, Department of Experimental Oncology, IRCCS Istituto Nazionale Tumori "Fondazione G. Pascale", Naples, Italy.,SUN Second University of Naples, Naples, Italy
| | - Katia Bifulco
- Neoplastic Progression Unit, Department of Experimental Oncology, IRCCS Istituto Nazionale Tumori "Fondazione G. Pascale", Naples, Italy
| | | | - Concetta Ragone
- Neoplastic Progression Unit, Department of Experimental Oncology, IRCCS Istituto Nazionale Tumori "Fondazione G. Pascale", Naples, Italy.,SUN Second University of Naples, Naples, Italy
| | | | - Domenica Rea
- Animal Facility, IRCCS Istituto Nazionale Tumori "Fondazione G. Pascale", Naples, Italy
| | - Michele Minopoli
- Neoplastic Progression Unit, Department of Experimental Oncology, IRCCS Istituto Nazionale Tumori "Fondazione G. Pascale", Naples, Italy
| | - Giovanni Botti
- Neoplastic Progression Unit, Department of Experimental Oncology, IRCCS Istituto Nazionale Tumori "Fondazione G. Pascale", Naples, Italy
| | - Giuseppe Scognamiglio
- Pathology Unit, IRCCS Istituto Nazionale Tumori "Fondazione G. Pascale", Naples, Italy
| | - Flavio Fazioli
- Surgery Unit, IRCCS Istituto Nazionale Tumori "Fondazione G. Pascale", Naples, Italy
| | - Michele Gallo
- Surgery Unit, IRCCS Istituto Nazionale Tumori "Fondazione G. Pascale", Naples, Italy
| | - Annarosaria De Chiara
- Pathology Unit, IRCCS Istituto Nazionale Tumori "Fondazione G. Pascale", Naples, Italy
| | - Claudio Arra
- Animal Facility, IRCCS Istituto Nazionale Tumori "Fondazione G. Pascale", Naples, Italy
| | - Paolo Grieco
- Department of Pharmacy, University Federico II, Naples, Italy
| | - Maria Vincenza Carriero
- Neoplastic Progression Unit, Department of Experimental Oncology, IRCCS Istituto Nazionale Tumori "Fondazione G. Pascale", Naples, Italy
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42
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Yousif AM, Ingangi V, Merlino F, Brancaccio D, Minopoli M, Bellavita R, Novellino E, Carriero MV, Carotenuto A, Grieco P. Urokinase receptor derived peptides as potent inhibitors of the formyl peptide receptor type 1-triggered cell migration. Eur J Med Chem 2017; 143:348-360. [PMID: 29202399 DOI: 10.1016/j.ejmech.2017.11.030] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/07/2017] [Revised: 11/09/2017] [Accepted: 11/11/2017] [Indexed: 10/18/2022]
Abstract
The receptor for the urokinase-type plasminogen activator (uPAR) is a widely recognized master regulator of cell migration. We and others have previously documented that the uPAR(84-95) sequence, interacts with the formyl peptide receptors (FPR)s, henceforth inducing cell migration of several cell lines, including leukocytes, and the synthetic shorter peptide (Ser88-Arg-Ser-Arg-Tyr92, SRSRY) retains chemotactic activity in vitro and in vivo. Recently, we have developed the head-to-tail cyclic analog [SRSRY], a new potent and stable inhibitor of monocyte trafficking. This prompted us to develop novel cyclic and linear analogs of [SRSRY] with the aim to broaden the knowledge about structure-activity relationships of peptide [SRSRY]. Herein we report their synthesis, effects on cell migration, conformational and docking analyses which served to envisage a new pharmacophore model for inhibitors of FPR1-triggered cell migration.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ali Munaim Yousif
- Department of Pharmacy, University of Naples 'Federico II', Naples 80131, Italy; Department of Chemistry, University of Texas at Dallas, 800 W. Campbell Rd., Richardson, TX 75080, United States
| | - Vincenzo Ingangi
- Department of Experimental Oncology IRCCS Istituto Nazionale Tumori "Fondazione G. Pascale" I-80131 Naples, Italy; Department of Experimental Medicine, University of Campania 'Luigi Vanvitelli', Naples 80138, Italy
| | - Francesco Merlino
- Department of Pharmacy, University of Naples 'Federico II', Naples 80131, Italy
| | - Diego Brancaccio
- Department of Pharmacy, University of Naples 'Federico II', Naples 80131, Italy
| | - Michele Minopoli
- Department of Experimental Oncology IRCCS Istituto Nazionale Tumori "Fondazione G. Pascale" I-80131 Naples, Italy; Department of Experimental Medicine, University of Campania 'Luigi Vanvitelli', Naples 80138, Italy
| | - Rosa Bellavita
- Department of Pharmacy, University of Naples 'Federico II', Naples 80131, Italy
| | - Ettore Novellino
- Department of Pharmacy, University of Naples 'Federico II', Naples 80131, Italy
| | - Maria Vincenza Carriero
- Department of Experimental Oncology IRCCS Istituto Nazionale Tumori "Fondazione G. Pascale" I-80131 Naples, Italy.
| | - Alfonso Carotenuto
- Department of Pharmacy, University of Naples 'Federico II', Naples 80131, Italy.
| | - Paolo Grieco
- Department of Pharmacy, University of Naples 'Federico II', Naples 80131, Italy; Centro Interuniversitario di Ricerca sui Peptidi Bioattivi (CIRPEB) University of Naples "Federico II" and DFM-Scarl, Institute of Biostructures and Bioimaging - CNR Via Mezzocannone 16, 80134 Naples, Italy
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Federico A, Zappavigna S, Dallio M, Misso G, Merlino F, Loguercio C, Novellino E, Grieco P, Caraglia M. Urotensin-II Receptor: A Double Identity Receptor Involved in Vasoconstriction and in the Development of Digestive Tract Cancers and other Tumors. Curr Cancer Drug Targets 2017; 17:109-121. [PMID: 27338741 DOI: 10.2174/1568009616666160621101248] [Citation(s) in RCA: 14] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/03/2016] [Revised: 06/13/2016] [Accepted: 06/16/2016] [Indexed: 12/26/2022]
Abstract
Urotensin II and Urotensin-II receptors are important molecular factors that regulate vasoconstriction and all the diseases that are linked to abnormalities in blood pressure regulation (i.e.: hypertension, kidney diseases, cirrhosis etc.). Recently, Urotensin II and its receptor have also been involved in metabolic syndrome, diabetes and schizophrenia. Recent strong findings suggest that Urotensin II and its receptor are involved in the onset and development of different epithelial cancers. Indeed, it was reported that cell growth, motility and invasion in human breast, bladder, prostate, colorectal and glioblastoma cancer cells were regulated by Urotensin II and Urotensin-II receptor axis. This axis also regulated focal adhesion kinase and small Guanosine-5'-triphosphate binding proteins that likely had a role in motility and invasion mediated by Urotensin-II receptor. Additionally, its expression on tumour tissues is variably associated to the prediction of the clinical outcome of the patients and it can be considered an alternative molecular marker to be used as prognostic factor in human cancers. In conclusion, a new weapon in the treatment of human cancers is highlighting a new scenario for the future.
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Affiliation(s)
- Alessandro Federico
- Department of Clinical and Experimental Medicine, Second University of Naples, Via Pansini 5 80131 Naples, Italy. Select country
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Merlino F, Carotenuto A, Casciaro B, Martora F, Loffredo MR, Di Grazia A, Yousif AM, Brancaccio D, Palomba L, Novellino E, Galdiero M, Iovene MR, Mangoni ML, Grieco P. Glycine-replaced derivatives of [Pro 3 ,DLeu 9 ]TL, a temporin L analogue: Evaluation of antimicrobial, cytotoxic and hemolytic activities. Eur J Med Chem 2017; 139:750-761. [DOI: 10.1016/j.ejmech.2017.08.040] [Citation(s) in RCA: 21] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/04/2017] [Revised: 08/03/2017] [Accepted: 08/19/2017] [Indexed: 12/23/2022]
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Maisto R, Gesualdo C, Trotta MC, Grieco P, Testa F, Simonelli F, Barcia JM, D'Amico M, Di Filippo C, Rossi S. Melanocortin receptor agonists MCR 1-5 protect photoreceptors from high-glucose damage and restore antioxidant enzymes in primary retinal cell culture. J Cell Mol Med 2016; 21:968-974. [PMID: 27998021 PMCID: PMC5387132 DOI: 10.1111/jcmm.13036] [Citation(s) in RCA: 14] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.8] [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: 09/07/2016] [Accepted: 10/18/2016] [Indexed: 01/09/2023] Open
Abstract
Retinal photoreceptors are particularly vulnerable to local high‐glucose concentrations. Oxidative stress is a risk factor for diabetic retinopathy development. Melanocortin receptors represent a family of G‐protein‐coupled receptors classified in five subtypes and are expressed in retina. Our previous data indicate that subtypes 1 and 5 receptor agonists exert a protective role on experimental diabetic retinopathy. This study focuses on their role in primary retinal cell cultures in high‐glucose concentrations. After eye enucleation from wild‐type male C57BL/6 mice, retinal cells were isolated, plated in high‐glucose concentration and treated with melanocortin receptors 1 and 5 agonists and antagonists. Immunocytochemical and biochemical analysis showed that treatment with melanocortin receptors 1 and 5 agonists reduced anti‐inflammatory cytokines and chemokines and enhanced manganese superoxide dismutase and glutathione peroxidase levels, preserving photoreceptor integrity. According with these evidences, we propose a major role of melanocortin receptors 1 and 5 on primary retinal cell response against high glucose or oxidative insults.
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Affiliation(s)
- Rosa Maisto
- Department of Experimental Medicine, Division of Pharmacology, Second University of Naples, Naples, Italy
| | - Carlo Gesualdo
- Multidisciplinary Department of Medical-Surgical and Dental Specialities, Second University of Naples, Naples, Italy
| | - Maria Consiglia Trotta
- Department of Experimental Medicine, Division of Pharmacology, Second University of Naples, Naples, Italy
| | - Paolo Grieco
- Pharmacy Department, University of Naples Federico II, Naples, Italy
| | - Francesco Testa
- Multidisciplinary Department of Medical-Surgical and Dental Specialities, Second University of Naples, Naples, Italy
| | - Francesca Simonelli
- Multidisciplinary Department of Medical-Surgical and Dental Specialities, Second University of Naples, Naples, Italy
| | | | - Michele D'Amico
- Department of Experimental Medicine, Division of Pharmacology, Second University of Naples, Naples, Italy
| | - Clara Di Filippo
- Department of Experimental Medicine, Division of Pharmacology, Second University of Naples, Naples, Italy
| | - Settimio Rossi
- Multidisciplinary Department of Medical-Surgical and Dental Specialities, Second University of Naples, Naples, Italy
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Russo A, Aiello C, Grieco P, Marasco D. Targeting "Undruggable" Proteins: Design of Synthetic Cyclopeptides. Curr Med Chem 2016; 23:748-62. [PMID: 26758797 DOI: 10.2174/0929867323666160112122540] [Citation(s) in RCA: 48] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/06/2015] [Revised: 12/31/2015] [Accepted: 01/11/2016] [Indexed: 11/22/2022]
Abstract
The development of synthetic macrocycles represents a powerful approach toward the identification of new protein binders or inhibitors of Protein-Protein Interactions (PPI) which are known to play key biological roles in cancer signaling as well as in the regulation of cell division cycle. Structural investigations led to identify "hot loops" sharing common motifs that are mainly involved in PPIs. Most PPIs occur through large and flat surfaces; currently these protein complexes are defined as "undruggable" by conventional drug-discovery approaches, since the identification of small molecules to inhibit these targets is often unreachable. Typically macrocycles are 500-2000 Da in size, having 12-membered, or more, ring architecture: they do not obey the Lipinski's rule but, for them nature offers many examples as therapeutic agents such as erythromycin (antibiotic), cyclosporin (immunosuppressant) and somatostatin (hormone). Peptide-based macrocycles offer the advantages of directly mimicking secondary structures involved in PPIs and their pharmacological application is related to the potential improvement of lead peptides in terms of potency, selectivity, stability and cell permeation. The promising relevance of cyclopeptides prompted to develop new synthetic methods for cyclization: often biotechnological approaches as well as regioselective reactions have been employed to cyclize peptides rapidly and nearly quantitatively. Moreover, different synthetic strategies in peptidomimetics' macrocyclization are actually available based on surrogate peptide bonds or NCL (Native Chemical Ligation) methods. In this review we focus on the most common methods for the preparation of cyclopeptides and interesting applications of the last decade.
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Affiliation(s)
- Anna Russo
- Department of Pharmacy, University "Federico II", Via Mezzocannone, 16, 80134, Naples, Italy.
| | | | | | - Daniela Marasco
- Department of Pharmacy, University "Federico II", Via Mezzocannone, 16, 80134, Naples, Italy.
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Genua M, Ingangi V, Fonteyne P, Piontini A, Yousif AM, Merlino F, Grieco P, Malesci A, Carriero MV, Danese S. Treatment with a Urokinase Receptor-derived Cyclized Peptide Improves Experimental Colitis by Preventing Monocyte Recruitment and Macrophage Polarization. Inflamm Bowel Dis 2016; 22:2390-401. [PMID: 27537052 DOI: 10.1097/mib.0000000000000896] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/09/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Leukocyte migration across the blood barrier and into tissues represents a key process in the pathogenesis of inflammatory bowel diseases. The urokinase receptor (urokinase-type plasminogen activator receptor) is a master regulator of leukocyte recruitment. We recently found that cyclization of the urokinase-type plasminogen activator receptor-derived peptide Ser-Arg-Ser-Arg-Tyr [SRSRY] inhibits transendothelial migration of monocytes. Now, we have explored the effects of [SRSRY] administration during experimental colitis. METHODS The effects of [SRSRY] on cytokine profile, cytoskeletal organization, and cell migration were investigated using phorbol-12-myristate acetate-differentiated THP-1 cells exposed to polarizing stimuli. In vivo, [SRSRY] was intraperitoneally administered during dextran sodium sulfate- or 2,4,6-trinitrobenzene sulfonic acid-induced colitis in wild-type or urokinase-type plasminogen activator receptor knockout mice. Levels of pro-inflammatory cytokines and inflammatory monocytes in mucosal infiltrates were assessed by enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay and flow cytometry, respectively. RESULTS [SRSRY] prevents M0 to M1 transition and migration of M1 polarized macrophages. In vivo, [SRSRY] reduces intestinal inflammation diminishing body weight loss and disease activity index. These beneficial effects are accompanied by a reduction of interleukin 1β, interleukin 6, and tumor necrosis factor α, an increase of interleukin 10, and an abridged recruitment of inflammatory monocytes to the inflamed tissue. CONCLUSIONS Altogether, these findings indicate that [SRSRY] may be considered as a new drug useful for the pharmacological treatment of chronic inflammatory diseases, such as inflammatory bowel diseases.
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Affiliation(s)
- Marco Genua
- *IBD Center, Humanitas Research Institute, Rozzano, Italy; †Department of Translational Medicine, Università degli Studi di Milano, Milan, Italy; ‡Neoplastic Progression Unit, Department of Experimental Oncology, IRCCS Istituto Nazionale Tumori "Fondazione G. Pascale," Naples, Italy; §SUN, Second University of Naples, Naples, Italy; ‖Department of Pharmacy, University Federico II, Naples, Italy; and ¶Hunimed-Humanitas University, Milan, Italy
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48
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Sala M, Spensiero A, Esposito F, Scala MC, Vernieri E, Bertamino A, Manfra M, Carotenuto A, Grieco P, Novellino E, Cadeddu M, Tramontano E, Schols D, Campiglia P, Gomez-Monterrey IM. Development and Identification of a Novel Anti-HIV-1 Peptide Derived by Modification of the N-Terminal Domain of HIV-1 Integrase. Front Microbiol 2016; 7:845. [PMID: 27375570 PMCID: PMC4901077 DOI: 10.3389/fmicb.2016.00845] [Citation(s) in RCA: 13] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.6] [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: 02/26/2016] [Accepted: 05/22/2016] [Indexed: 11/16/2022] Open
Abstract
The viral enzyme integrase (IN) is essential for the replication of human immunodeficiency virus type 1 (HIV-1) and represents an important target for the development of new antiretroviral drugs. In this study, we focused on the N-terminal domain (NTD), which is mainly involved into protein oligomerization process, for the development and synthesis of a library of overlapping peptide sequences, with specific length and specific offset covering the entire native protein sequence NTD IN 1–50. The most potent fragment, VVAKEIVAH (peptide 18), which includes a His residue instead of the natural Ser at position 39, inhibits the HIV-1 IN activity with an IC50 value of 4.5 μM. Amino acid substitution analysis on this peptide revealed essential residues for activity and allowed us to identify two nonapeptides (peptides 24 and 25), that show a potency of inhibition similar to the one of peptide 18. Interestingly, peptide 18 does not interfere with the dynamic interplay between IN subunits, while peptides 24 and 25 modulated these interactions in different manners. In fact, peptide 24 inhibited the IN-IN dimerization, while peptide 25 promoted IN multimerization, with IC50 values of 32 and 4.8 μM, respectively. In addition, peptide 25 has shown to have selective anti-infective cell activity for HIV-1. These results confirmed peptide 25 as a hit for further development of new chemotherapeutic agents against HIV-1.
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Affiliation(s)
- Marina Sala
- Department of Pharmacy, University of Salerno Salerno, Italy
| | | | - Francesca Esposito
- Department of Life and Environmental Sciences, Cittadella Universitaria di Monserrato, University of Cagliari Cagliari, Italy
| | - Maria C Scala
- Department of Pharmacy, University of Salerno Salerno, Italy
| | | | | | - Michele Manfra
- Department of Sciences, University of Basilicata Potenza, Italy
| | - Alfonso Carotenuto
- Department of Pharmacy, Medicicnal Chemistry and Toxicologic, University of Naples Federico II Napoli, Italy
| | - Paolo Grieco
- Department of Pharmacy, Medicicnal Chemistry and Toxicologic, University of Naples Federico II Napoli, Italy
| | - Ettore Novellino
- Department of Pharmacy, Medicicnal Chemistry and Toxicologic, University of Naples Federico II Napoli, Italy
| | - Marta Cadeddu
- Department of Life and Environmental Sciences, Cittadella Universitaria di Monserrato, University of Cagliari Cagliari, Italy
| | - Enzo Tramontano
- Department of Life and Environmental Sciences, Cittadella Universitaria di Monserrato, University of CagliariCagliari, Italy; Institute of Genetic and Biomedical Research, National Research Council, Citadella di MonserratoCagliari, Italy
| | - Dominique Schols
- Department of Microbiology and Immunology, Rega Institute for Medical Research Leuven, Belgium
| | | | - Isabel M Gomez-Monterrey
- Department of Pharmacy, Medicicnal Chemistry and Toxicologic, University of Naples Federico II Napoli, Italy
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Zappavigna S, Misso G, Falanga A, Perillo E, Novellino E, Galdiero M, Grieco P, Caraglia M, Galdiero S. Nanocarriers Conjugated with Cell Penetrating Peptides: New Trojan Horses by Modern Ulysses. Curr Pharm Biotechnol 2016; 17:700-22. [DOI: 10.2174/1389201017666160415155145] [Citation(s) in RCA: 12] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/04/2015] [Revised: 10/11/2015] [Accepted: 02/21/2016] [Indexed: 11/22/2022]
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Merlino F, Yousif AM, Billard É, Dufour-Gallant J, Turcotte S, Grieco P, Chatenet D, Lubell WD. Urotensin II((4-11)) Azasulfuryl Peptides: Synthesis and Biological Activity. J Med Chem 2016; 59:4740-52. [PMID: 27140209 DOI: 10.1021/acs.jmedchem.6b00108] [Citation(s) in RCA: 22] [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: 01/27/2023]
Abstract
Cyclic azasulfuryl (As) peptide analogs of the urotensin II (UII, 1, H-Glu-Thr-Pro-Asp-c[Cys-Phe-Trp-Lys-Tyr-Cys]-Val-OH) fragment 4-11 were synthesized to explore the influences of backbone structure on biological activity. N-Aminosulfamides were inserted as surrogates of the Trp(7) and Lys(8) residues in the biologically relevant Trp-Lys-Tyr triad. A combination of solution- and solid-phase methods were used to prepare novel UII((4-11)) analogs 6-11 by routes featuring alkylation of azasulfuryl-glycine tripeptide precursors to install various side chains. The pharmacological profiles of derivatives 6-11 were tested in vitro using a competitive binding assay and ex vivo using a rat aortic ring bioassay. Although the analogs exhibited weak affinity for the urotensin II receptor (UT) without agonistic activity, azasulfuryl-UII((4-11)) derivatives 7-9 reduced up to 50% of the effects of UII and urotensin II-related peptide (URP) without affecting their potency.
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Affiliation(s)
- Francesco Merlino
- Département de Chimie, Université de Montréal , C.P. 6128, Station Centre-ville, Montréal, Québec H3C 3J7, Canada.,Department of Pharmacy, University of Naples "Federico II" , via D. Montesano 49, 80131 Naples, Italy
| | - Ali M Yousif
- Département de Chimie, Université de Montréal , C.P. 6128, Station Centre-ville, Montréal, Québec H3C 3J7, Canada.,Department of Pharmacy, University of Naples "Federico II" , via D. Montesano 49, 80131 Naples, Italy
| | - Étienne Billard
- INRS - Institut Armand-Frappier, Groupe de Recherche en Ingénierie des Peptides et en Pharmacothérapie (GRIPP), Université du Quebéc , Ville de Laval, Quebec H7V 1B7, Canada
| | - Julien Dufour-Gallant
- Département de Chimie, Université de Montréal , C.P. 6128, Station Centre-ville, Montréal, Québec H3C 3J7, Canada
| | - Stéphane Turcotte
- Département de Chimie, Université de Montréal , C.P. 6128, Station Centre-ville, Montréal, Québec H3C 3J7, Canada
| | - Paolo Grieco
- Department of Pharmacy, University of Naples "Federico II" , via D. Montesano 49, 80131 Naples, Italy
| | - David Chatenet
- INRS - Institut Armand-Frappier, Groupe de Recherche en Ingénierie des Peptides et en Pharmacothérapie (GRIPP), Université du Quebéc , Ville de Laval, Quebec H7V 1B7, Canada
| | - William D Lubell
- Département de Chimie, Université de Montréal , C.P. 6128, Station Centre-ville, Montréal, Québec H3C 3J7, Canada
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