1
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Pahl A, Liu J, Patil S, Rezaei Adariani S, Schölermann B, Warmers J, Bonowski J, Koska S, Akbulut Y, Seitz C, Sievers S, Ziegler S, Waldmann H. Illuminating Dark Chemical Matter Using the Cell Painting Assay. J Med Chem 2024; 67:8862-8876. [PMID: 38687818 PMCID: PMC11181314 DOI: 10.1021/acs.jmedchem.4c00160] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/18/2024] [Revised: 04/11/2024] [Accepted: 04/16/2024] [Indexed: 05/02/2024]
Abstract
Screening for small-molecule modulators of disease-relevant targets and phenotypes is the first step on the way to new drugs. Large compound libraries have been synthesized by academia and, particularly, pharmaceutical companies to meet the need for novel chemical entities that are as diverse as possible. Screening of these compound libraries revealed a portion of small molecules that is inactive in more than 100 different assays and was therefore termed "dark chemical matter" (DCM). Deorphanization of DCM promises to yield very selective compounds as they are expected to have less off-target effects. We employed morphological profiling using the Cell Painting assay to detect bioactive DCM. Within the DCM collection, we identified bioactive compounds and confirmed several modulators of microtubules, DNA synthesis, and pyrimidine biosynthesis. Profiling approaches are, therefore, powerful tools to probe compound collections for bioactivity in an unbiased manner and are particularly suitable for deorphanization of DCM.
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Affiliation(s)
- Axel Pahl
- Max-Planck
Institute of Molecular Physiology, Department of Chemical Biology, Otto-Hahn-Strasse 11, Dortmund 44227, Germany
| | - Jie Liu
- Max-Planck
Institute of Molecular Physiology, Department of Chemical Biology, Otto-Hahn-Strasse 11, Dortmund 44227, Germany
| | - Sohan Patil
- Max-Planck
Institute of Molecular Physiology, Department of Chemical Biology, Otto-Hahn-Strasse 11, Dortmund 44227, Germany
| | - Soheila Rezaei Adariani
- Max-Planck
Institute of Molecular Physiology, Department of Chemical Biology, Otto-Hahn-Strasse 11, Dortmund 44227, Germany
- Technical
University Dortmund, Faculty of Chemistry and Chemical Biology, Otto-Hahn-Strasse 6, Dortmund 44227, Germany
| | - Beate Schölermann
- Max-Planck
Institute of Molecular Physiology, Department of Chemical Biology, Otto-Hahn-Strasse 11, Dortmund 44227, Germany
| | - Jens Warmers
- Max-Planck
Institute of Molecular Physiology, Department of Chemical Biology, Otto-Hahn-Strasse 11, Dortmund 44227, Germany
- Technical
University Dortmund, Faculty of Chemistry and Chemical Biology, Otto-Hahn-Strasse 6, Dortmund 44227, Germany
| | - Jana Bonowski
- Max-Planck
Institute of Molecular Physiology, Department of Chemical Biology, Otto-Hahn-Strasse 11, Dortmund 44227, Germany
| | - Sandra Koska
- Max-Planck
Institute of Molecular Physiology, Department of Chemical Biology, Otto-Hahn-Strasse 11, Dortmund 44227, Germany
| | - Yasemin Akbulut
- Max-Planck
Institute of Molecular Physiology, Department of Chemical Biology, Otto-Hahn-Strasse 11, Dortmund 44227, Germany
| | - Carina Seitz
- Max-Planck
Institute of Molecular Physiology, Department of Chemical Biology, Otto-Hahn-Strasse 11, Dortmund 44227, Germany
| | - Sonja Sievers
- Max-Planck
Institute of Molecular Physiology, Department of Chemical Biology, Otto-Hahn-Strasse 11, Dortmund 44227, Germany
| | - Slava Ziegler
- Max-Planck
Institute of Molecular Physiology, Department of Chemical Biology, Otto-Hahn-Strasse 11, Dortmund 44227, Germany
| | - Herbert Waldmann
- Max-Planck
Institute of Molecular Physiology, Department of Chemical Biology, Otto-Hahn-Strasse 11, Dortmund 44227, Germany
- Technical
University Dortmund, Faculty of Chemistry and Chemical Biology, Otto-Hahn-Strasse 6, Dortmund 44227, Germany
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2
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Glenn IS, Hall LN, Khalid MM, Ott M, Shoichet BK. Colloidal Aggregation Confounds Cell-Based Covid-19 Antiviral Screens. J Med Chem 2024. [PMID: 38864383 DOI: 10.1021/acs.jmedchem.4c00597] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 06/13/2024]
Abstract
Colloidal aggregation is one of the largest contributors to false positives in early drug discovery. Here, we consider aggregation's role in cell-based infectivity assays in Covid-19 drug repurposing. We investigated the potential aggregation of 41 drug candidates reported as SARs-CoV-2 entry inhibitors. Of these, 17 formed colloidal particles by dynamic light scattering and exhibited detergent-dependent enzyme inhibition. To evaluate the impact of aggregation on antiviral efficacy in cells, we presaturated the colloidal drug suspensions with BSA or spun them down by centrifugation and measured the effects on spike pseudovirus infectivity. Antiviral potencies diminished by at least 10-fold following both BSA and centrifugation treatments, supporting a colloid-based mechanism. Aggregates induced puncta of the labeled spike protein in fluorescence microscopy, consistent with sequestration of the protein on the colloidal particles. These observations suggest that colloidal aggregation is common among cell-based antiviral drug repurposing and offers rapid counter-screens to detect and eliminate these artifacts.
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Affiliation(s)
- Isabella S Glenn
- Department of Pharmaceutical Chemistry, University of California San Francisco (UCSF), San Francisco, California 94143, United States
| | - Lauren N Hall
- Department of Pharmaceutical Chemistry, University of California San Francisco (UCSF), San Francisco, California 94143, United States
| | - Mir M Khalid
- Gladstone Institutes, San Francisco, California 94158, United States
- Department of Medicine, University of California, San Francisco, San Francisco, California 94158, United States
| | - Melanie Ott
- Gladstone Institutes, San Francisco, California 94158, United States
- Department of Medicine, University of California, San Francisco, San Francisco, California 94158, United States
- Chan Zuckerberg Biohub, San Francisco, California 94158, United States
| | - Brian K Shoichet
- Department of Pharmaceutical Chemistry, University of California San Francisco (UCSF), San Francisco, California 94143, United States
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3
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Shi S, Fu L, Yi J, Yang Z, Zhang X, Deng Y, Wang W, Wu C, Zhao W, Hou T, Zeng X, Lyu A, Cao D. ChemFH: an integrated tool for screening frequent false positives in chemical biology and drug discovery. Nucleic Acids Res 2024:gkae424. [PMID: 38783035 DOI: 10.1093/nar/gkae424] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/06/2024] [Revised: 04/25/2024] [Accepted: 05/10/2024] [Indexed: 05/25/2024] Open
Abstract
High-throughput screening rapidly tests an extensive array of chemical compounds to identify hit compounds for specific biological targets in drug discovery. However, false-positive results disrupt hit compound screening, leading to wastage of time and resources. To address this, we propose ChemFH, an integrated online platform facilitating rapid virtual evaluation of potential false positives, including colloidal aggregators, spectroscopic interference compounds, firefly luciferase inhibitors, chemical reactive compounds, promiscuous compounds, and other assay interferences. By leveraging a dataset containing 823 391 compounds, we constructed high-quality prediction models using multi-task directed message-passing network (DMPNN) architectures combining uncertainty estimation, yielding an average AUC value of 0.91. Furthermore, ChemFH incorporated 1441 representative alert substructures derived from the collected data and ten commonly used frequent hitter screening rules. ChemFH was validated with an external set of 75 compounds. Subsequently, the virtual screening capability of ChemFH was successfully confirmed through its application to five virtual screening libraries. Furthermore, ChemFH underwent additional validation on two natural products and FDA-approved drugs, yielding reliable and accurate results. ChemFH is a comprehensive, reliable, and computationally efficient screening pipeline that facilitates the identification of true positive results in assays, contributing to enhanced efficiency and success rates in drug discovery. ChemFH is freely available via https://chemfh.scbdd.com/.
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Affiliation(s)
- Shaohua Shi
- Xiangya School of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Central South University, Changsha, Hunan 410013, P.R. China
- School of Chinese Medicine, Hong Kong Baptist University, Kowloon, Hong Kong SAR, 999077, P.R. China
| | - Li Fu
- Xiangya School of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Central South University, Changsha, Hunan 410013, P.R. China
| | - Jiacai Yi
- School of Computer Science, National University of Defense Technology, Changsha, Hunan 410073, P.R. China
| | - Ziyi Yang
- Xiangya School of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Central South University, Changsha, Hunan 410013, P.R. China
| | - Xiaochen Zhang
- School of Information Technology, Shangqiu Normal University, Shangqiu, Henan 476000, P.R. China
| | - Youchao Deng
- Xiangya School of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Central South University, Changsha, Hunan 410013, P.R. China
| | - Wenxuan Wang
- Xiangya School of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Central South University, Changsha, Hunan 410013, P.R. China
| | - Chengkun Wu
- School of Computer Science, National University of Defense Technology, Changsha, Hunan 410073, P.R. China
| | - Wentao Zhao
- School of Computer Science, National University of Defense Technology, Changsha, Hunan 410073, P.R. China
| | - Tingjun Hou
- College of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Zhejiang University, Hangzhou, Zhejiang 310058, P.R. China
| | - Xiangxiang Zeng
- College of Computer Science and Electronic Engineering, Hunan University, Changsha, Hunan 410082, P.R. China
| | - Aiping Lyu
- School of Chinese Medicine, Hong Kong Baptist University, Kowloon, Hong Kong SAR, 999077, P.R. China
| | - Dongsheng Cao
- Xiangya School of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Central South University, Changsha, Hunan 410013, P.R. China
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4
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Shin JS, Jang Y, Kim DS, Jung E, Lee MK, Kim B, Ahn S, Shin Y, Jang SS, Yun CS, Yoo J, Lim YC, Han SB, Kim M. Inhibition of endocytic uptake of severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2 and endo-lysosomal acidification by diphenoxylate. Antimicrob Agents Chemother 2024:e0034124. [PMID: 38742905 DOI: 10.1128/aac.00341-24] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/04/2024] [Accepted: 04/17/2024] [Indexed: 05/16/2024] Open
Abstract
Cell culture-based screening of a chemical library identified diphenoxylate as an antiviral agent against severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2 (SARS-CoV-2). The observed 50% effective concentrations ranged between 1.4 and 4.9 µM against the original wild-type strain and its variants. Time-of-addition experiments indicated that diphenoxylate is an entry blocker targeting a host factor involved in viral infection. Fluorescence microscopic analysis visualized that diphenoxylate prevented SARS-CoV-2 particles from penetrating the cell membrane and also impaired endo-lysosomal acidification. Diphenoxylate exhibited a synergistic inhibitory effect on SARS-CoV-2 infection in human lung epithelial Calu-3 cells when combined with a transmembrane serine protease 2 (TMPRSS2) inhibitor, nafamostat. This synergy suggested that efficient antiviral activity is achieved by blocking both TMPRSS2-mediated early and endosome-mediated late SARS-CoV-2 entry pathways. The antiviral efficacy of diphenoxylate against SARS-CoV-2 was reproducible in a human tonsil organoids system. In a transgenic mouse model expressing the obligate SARS-CoV-2 receptor, human angiotensin-converting enzyme 2, intranasal administration of diphenoxylate (10 mg/kg/day) significantly reduced the viral RNA copy number in the lungs by 70% on day 3. This study underscores that diphenoxylate represents a promising core scaffold, warranting further exploration for chemical modifications aimed at developing a new class of clinically effective antiviral drugs against SARS-CoV-2.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jin Soo Shin
- Infectious Diseases Therapeutic Research Center, Korea Research Institute of Chemical Technology (KRICT), Daejeon, Republic of Korea
| | - Yejin Jang
- Infectious Diseases Therapeutic Research Center, Korea Research Institute of Chemical Technology (KRICT), Daejeon, Republic of Korea
| | - Dong-Su Kim
- Infectious Diseases Therapeutic Research Center, Korea Research Institute of Chemical Technology (KRICT), Daejeon, Republic of Korea
| | - Eunhye Jung
- Infectious Diseases Therapeutic Research Center, Korea Research Institute of Chemical Technology (KRICT), Daejeon, Republic of Korea
| | - Myoung Kyu Lee
- Infectious Diseases Therapeutic Research Center, Korea Research Institute of Chemical Technology (KRICT), Daejeon, Republic of Korea
| | - Byungil Kim
- Infectious Diseases Therapeutic Research Center, Korea Research Institute of Chemical Technology (KRICT), Daejeon, Republic of Korea
| | - Sunjoo Ahn
- Therapeutics and Biotechnology Division, Korea Research Institute of Chemical Technology (KRICT), Daejeon, Republic of Korea
| | - Yeonju Shin
- Infectious Diseases Therapeutic Research Center, Korea Research Institute of Chemical Technology (KRICT), Daejeon, Republic of Korea
| | - Su San Jang
- Infectious Diseases Therapeutic Research Center, Korea Research Institute of Chemical Technology (KRICT), Daejeon, Republic of Korea
| | - Chang Soo Yun
- Infectious Diseases Therapeutic Research Center, Korea Research Institute of Chemical Technology (KRICT), Daejeon, Republic of Korea
| | - Jongman Yoo
- CHA Organoid Research Center, CHA University, Seongnam, Gyeonggi-do, Republic of Korea
| | - Young Chang Lim
- Department of Otorhinolaryngology-Head and Neck Surgery, The Research Institute, Konkuk University School of Medicine, Seoul, Republic of Korea
| | - Soo Bong Han
- Infectious Diseases Therapeutic Research Center, Korea Research Institute of Chemical Technology (KRICT), Daejeon, Republic of Korea
- Medicinal Chemistry and Pharmacology, University of Science and Technology (UST), Daejeon, Republic of Korea
| | - Meehyein Kim
- Infectious Diseases Therapeutic Research Center, Korea Research Institute of Chemical Technology (KRICT), Daejeon, Republic of Korea
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5
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Tan L, Hirte S, Palmacci V, Stork C, Kirchmair J. Tackling assay interference associated with small molecules. Nat Rev Chem 2024; 8:319-339. [PMID: 38622244 DOI: 10.1038/s41570-024-00593-3] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 02/29/2024] [Indexed: 04/17/2024]
Abstract
Biochemical and cell-based assays are essential to discovering and optimizing efficacious and safe drugs, agrochemicals and cosmetics. However, false assay readouts stemming from colloidal aggregation, chemical reactivity, chelation, light signal attenuation and emission, membrane disruption, and other interference mechanisms remain a considerable challenge in screening synthetic compounds and natural products. To address assay interference, a range of powerful experimental approaches are available and in silico methods are now gaining traction. This Review begins with an overview of the scope and limitations of experimental approaches for tackling assay interference. It then focuses on theoretical methods, discusses strategies for their integration with experimental approaches, and provides recommendations for best practices. The Review closes with a summary of the critical facts and an outlook on potential future developments.
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Affiliation(s)
- Lu Tan
- Drug Discovery Sciences, Boehringer Ingelheim RCV GmbH & Co KG, Vienna, Austria
| | - Steffen Hirte
- Department of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Division of Pharmaceutical Chemistry, Faculty of Life Sciences, University of Vienna, Vienna, Austria
- Vienna Doctoral School of Pharmaceutical, Nutritional and Sport Sciences (PhaNuSpo), University of Vienna, Vienna, Austria
| | - Vincenzo Palmacci
- Department of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Division of Pharmaceutical Chemistry, Faculty of Life Sciences, University of Vienna, Vienna, Austria
- Vienna Doctoral School of Pharmaceutical, Nutritional and Sport Sciences (PhaNuSpo), University of Vienna, Vienna, Austria
| | - Conrad Stork
- Department of Informatics, Center for Bioinformatics, Faculty of Mathematics, Informatics and Natural Sciences, Universität Hamburg, Hamburg, Germany
- BASF SE, Ludwigshafen am Rhein, Germany
| | - Johannes Kirchmair
- Department of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Division of Pharmaceutical Chemistry, Faculty of Life Sciences, University of Vienna, Vienna, Austria.
- Christian Doppler Laboratory for Molecular Informatics in the Biosciences, Department for Pharmaceutical Sciences, University of Vienna, Vienna, Austria.
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6
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Wang L, Kumar R, Winblad B, Pavlov PF. Structure-based discovery of small molecule inhibitors of FKBP51-Hsp90 protein-protein interaction. Eur J Med Chem 2024; 270:116356. [PMID: 38579621 DOI: 10.1016/j.ejmech.2024.116356] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/06/2024] [Revised: 03/22/2024] [Accepted: 03/24/2024] [Indexed: 04/07/2024]
Abstract
The heat shock protein 90 kDa (Hsp90) molecular chaperone machinery is responsible for the folding and activation of hundreds of important clients such as kinases, steroid hormone receptors, transcription factors, etc. This process is dynamically regulated in an ATP-dependent manner by Hsp90 co-chaperones including a group of tetratricopeptide (TPR) motif proteins that bind to the C-terminus of Hsp90. Among these TPR containing co-chaperones, FK506-binding protein 51 kDa (FKBP51) is reported to play an important role in stress-related pathologies, psychiatric disorders, Alzheimer's disease, and cancer, making FKBP51-Hsp90 interaction a potential therapeutic target. In this study, we report identification of potent and selective inhibitors of FKBP51-Hsp90 protein-protein interaction using a structure-based virtual screening approach. Upon in vitro evaluation, the identified hits show a considerable degree of selectivity towards FKBP51 over other TPR proteins, particularly for highly homologous FKBP52. Tyr355 of FKBP51 emerged as an important contributor to inhibitor's specificity. Additionally, we demonstrate the impact of these inhibitors on cellular energy metabolism, and neurite outgrowth, which are subjects of FKBP51 regulation. Overall, the results from this study highlight a novel pharmacological approach towards regulation of FKBP51 function and more generally, Hsp90 function via its interaction with TPR co-chaperones.
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Affiliation(s)
- Lisha Wang
- Department of Neurobiology, Care Sciences and Society, Division of Neurogeriatrics, Karolinska Institutet, 17164, Solna, Sweden.
| | - Rajnish Kumar
- Department of Neurobiology, Care Sciences and Society, Division of Neurogeriatrics, Karolinska Institutet, 17164, Solna, Sweden; Department of Pharmaceutical Engineering & Technology, Indian Institute of Technology (BHU), 221005, Varanasi, India.
| | - Bengt Winblad
- Department of Neurobiology, Care Sciences and Society, Division of Neurogeriatrics, Karolinska Institutet, 17164, Solna, Sweden; Theme Inflammation and Aging, Karolinska University Hospital, 14186, Huddinge, Sweden
| | - Pavel F Pavlov
- Department of Neurobiology, Care Sciences and Society, Division of Neurogeriatrics, Karolinska Institutet, 17164, Solna, Sweden
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7
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Singh A, Dhau J, Kumar R, Badru R, Kaushik A. Exploring the fluorescence properties of tellurium-containing molecules and their advanced applications. Phys Chem Chem Phys 2024; 26:9816-9847. [PMID: 38497121 DOI: 10.1039/d3cp05740b] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 03/19/2024]
Abstract
This review article explores the fascinating realm of fluorescence using organochalcogen molecules, with a particular emphasis on tellurium (Te). The discussion encompasses the underlying mechanisms, structural motifs influencing fluorescence, and the applications of these intriguing phenomena. This review not only elucidates the current state of knowledge but also identifies avenues for future research, thereby serving as a valuable resource for researchers and enthusiasts in the field of fluorescence chemistry with a focus on Te-based molecules. By highlighting challenges and prospects, this review sparks a conversation on the transformative potential of Te-containing compounds across different fields, ranging from environmental solutions to healthcare and materials science applications. This review aims to provide a comprehensive understanding of the distinct fluorescence behaviors exhibited by Te-containing compounds, contributing valuable insights to the evolving landscape of chalcogen-based fluorescence research.
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Affiliation(s)
- Avtar Singh
- Research and Development, Molekule Group Inc., 3802 Spectrum Blvd., Tampa, Florida 33612, USA.
- Department of Chemistry, Sri Guru Teg Bahadur Khalsa College, Anandpur Sahib, Punjab 140118, India
| | - Jaspreet Dhau
- Research and Development, Molekule Group Inc., 3802 Spectrum Blvd., Tampa, Florida 33612, USA.
| | - Rajeev Kumar
- Department of Environment Studies, Panjab University, Chandigarh 160014, India
| | - Rahul Badru
- Department of Chemistry, Sri Guru Granth Sahib World University, Fatehgarh Sahib, Punjab 140406, India
| | - Ajeet Kaushik
- NanoBioTech Laboratory, Department of Environmental Engineering, Florida Polytechnic University, Lakeland, FL 33805, USA
- School of Engineering, University of Petroleum and Energy Studies (UPES), Dehradun, Uttarakhand, India
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8
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Kumar V, Chunchagatta Lakshman PK, Prasad TK, Manjunath K, Bairy S, Vasu AS, Ganavi B, Jasti S, Kamariah N. Target-based drug discovery: Applications of fluorescence techniques in high throughput and fragment-based screening. Heliyon 2024; 10:e23864. [PMID: 38226204 PMCID: PMC10788520 DOI: 10.1016/j.heliyon.2023.e23864] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/09/2023] [Revised: 12/14/2023] [Accepted: 12/14/2023] [Indexed: 01/17/2024] Open
Abstract
Target-based discovery of first-in-class therapeutics demands an in-depth understanding of the molecular mechanisms underlying human diseases. Precise measurements of cellular and biochemical activities are critical to gain mechanistic knowledge of biomolecules and their altered function in disease conditions. Such measurements enable the development of intervention strategies for preventing or treating diseases by modulation of desired molecular processes. Fluorescence-based techniques are routinely employed for accurate and robust measurements of in-vitro activity of molecular targets and for discovering novel chemical molecules that modulate the activity of molecular targets. In the current review, the authors focus on the applications of fluorescence-based high throughput screening (HTS) and fragment-based ligand discovery (FBLD) techniques such as fluorescence polarization (FP), Förster resonance energy transfer (FRET), fluorescence thermal shift assay (FTSA) and microscale thermophoresis (MST) for the discovery of chemical probe to exploring target's role in disease biology and ultimately, serve as a foundation for drug discovery. Some recent advancements in these techniques for compound library screening against important classes of drug targets, such as G-protein-coupled receptors (GPCRs) and GTPases, as well as phosphorylation- and acetylation-mediated protein-protein interactions, are discussed. Overall, this review presents a landscape of how these techniques paved the way for the discovery of small-molecule modulators and biologics against these targets for therapeutic benefits.
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Affiliation(s)
| | | | - Thazhe Kootteri Prasad
- Centre for Chemical Biology & Therapeutics, inStem & NCBS, Bellary Road, Bangalore, 560065, India
| | - Kavyashree Manjunath
- Centre for Chemical Biology & Therapeutics, inStem & NCBS, Bellary Road, Bangalore, 560065, India
| | - Sneha Bairy
- Centre for Chemical Biology & Therapeutics, inStem & NCBS, Bellary Road, Bangalore, 560065, India
| | - Akshaya S. Vasu
- Centre for Chemical Biology & Therapeutics, inStem & NCBS, Bellary Road, Bangalore, 560065, India
| | - B. Ganavi
- Centre for Chemical Biology & Therapeutics, inStem & NCBS, Bellary Road, Bangalore, 560065, India
| | - Subbarao Jasti
- Centre for Chemical Biology & Therapeutics, inStem & NCBS, Bellary Road, Bangalore, 560065, India
| | - Neelagandan Kamariah
- Centre for Chemical Biology & Therapeutics, inStem & NCBS, Bellary Road, Bangalore, 560065, India
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9
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Clare RH, Dawson CA, Westhorpe A, Albulescu LO, Woodley CM, Mosallam N, Chong DJW, Kool J, Berry NG, O’Neill PM, Casewell NR. Snakebite drug discovery: high-throughput screening to identify novel snake venom metalloproteinase toxin inhibitors. Front Pharmacol 2024; 14:1328950. [PMID: 38273820 PMCID: PMC10808794 DOI: 10.3389/fphar.2023.1328950] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/27/2023] [Accepted: 12/21/2023] [Indexed: 01/27/2024] Open
Abstract
Snakebite envenoming results in ∼100,000 deaths per year, with close to four times as many victims left with life-long sequelae. Current antivenom therapies have several limitations including high cost, variable cross-snake species efficacy and a requirement for intravenous administration in a clinical setting. Next-generation snakebite therapies are being widely investigated with the aim to improve cost, efficacy, and safety. In recent years several small molecule drugs have shown considerable promise for snakebite indication, with oral bioavailability particularly promising for community delivery rapidly after a snakebite. However, only two such drugs have entered clinical development for snakebite. To offset the risk of attrition during clinical trials and to better explore the chemical space for small molecule venom toxin inhibitors, here we describe the first high throughput drug screen against snake venom metalloproteinases (SVMPs)-a pathogenic toxin family responsible for causing haemorrhage and coagulopathy. Following validation of a 384-well fluorescent enzymatic assay, we screened a repurposed drug library of 3,547 compounds against five geographically distinct and toxin variable snake venoms. Our drug screen resulted in the identification of 14 compounds with pan-species inhibitory activity. Following secondary potency testing, four SVMP inhibitors were identified with nanomolar EC50s comparable to the previously identified matrix metalloproteinase inhibitor marimastat and superior to the metal chelator dimercaprol, doubling the current global portfolio of SVMP inhibitors. Following analysis of their chemical structure and ADME properties, two hit-to-lead compounds were identified. These clear starting points for the initiation of medicinal chemistry campaigns provide the basis for the first ever designer snakebite specific small molecules.
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Affiliation(s)
- Rachel H. Clare
- Department of Tropical Disease Biology, Centre for Snakebite Research and Interventions, Liverpool School of Tropical Medicine, Liverpool, United Kingdom
- Department of Tropical Disease Biology, Centre for Drugs and Diagnostics, Liverpool School of Tropical Medicine, Liverpool, United Kingdom
| | - Charlotte A. Dawson
- Department of Tropical Disease Biology, Centre for Snakebite Research and Interventions, Liverpool School of Tropical Medicine, Liverpool, United Kingdom
- Department of Tropical Disease Biology, Centre for Drugs and Diagnostics, Liverpool School of Tropical Medicine, Liverpool, United Kingdom
| | - Adam Westhorpe
- Department of Tropical Disease Biology, Centre for Snakebite Research and Interventions, Liverpool School of Tropical Medicine, Liverpool, United Kingdom
- Department of Tropical Disease Biology, Centre for Drugs and Diagnostics, Liverpool School of Tropical Medicine, Liverpool, United Kingdom
| | - Laura-Oana Albulescu
- Department of Tropical Disease Biology, Centre for Snakebite Research and Interventions, Liverpool School of Tropical Medicine, Liverpool, United Kingdom
- Department of Tropical Disease Biology, Centre for Drugs and Diagnostics, Liverpool School of Tropical Medicine, Liverpool, United Kingdom
| | | | - Nada Mosallam
- Department of Chemistry, University of Liverpool, Liverpool, United Kingdom
| | - Daniel J. W. Chong
- Department of Chemistry, University of Liverpool, Liverpool, United Kingdom
| | - Jeroen Kool
- Division of BioAnalytical Chemistry, Department of Chemistry and Pharmaceutical Sciences, Faculty of Science, Amsterdam Institute of Molecular and Life Sciences, Vrije Universiteit Amsterdam, Amsterdam, Netherlands
| | - Neil G. Berry
- Department of Chemistry, University of Liverpool, Liverpool, United Kingdom
| | - Paul M. O’Neill
- Department of Chemistry, University of Liverpool, Liverpool, United Kingdom
| | - Nicholas R. Casewell
- Department of Tropical Disease Biology, Centre for Snakebite Research and Interventions, Liverpool School of Tropical Medicine, Liverpool, United Kingdom
- Department of Tropical Disease Biology, Centre for Drugs and Diagnostics, Liverpool School of Tropical Medicine, Liverpool, United Kingdom
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10
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Gupta R, Singh M, Pathania R. Chemical genetic approaches for the discovery of bacterial cell wall inhibitors. RSC Med Chem 2023; 14:2125-2154. [PMID: 37974958 PMCID: PMC10650376 DOI: 10.1039/d3md00143a] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/26/2023] [Accepted: 08/10/2023] [Indexed: 11/19/2023] Open
Abstract
Antimicrobial resistance (AMR) in bacterial pathogens is a worldwide health issue. The innovation gap in discovering new antibiotics has remained a significant hurdle in combating the AMR problem. Currently, antibiotics target various vital components of the bacterial cell envelope, nucleic acid and protein biosynthesis machinery and metabolic pathways essential for bacterial survival. The critical role of the bacterial cell envelope in cell morphogenesis and integrity makes it an attractive drug target. While a significant number of in-clinic antibiotics target peptidoglycan biosynthesis, several components of the bacterial cell envelope have been overlooked. This review focuses on various antibacterial targets in the bacterial cell wall and the strategies employed to find their novel inhibitors. This review will further elaborate on combining forward and reverse chemical genetic approaches to discover antibacterials that target the bacterial cell envelope.
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Affiliation(s)
- Rinki Gupta
- Department of Biosciences and Bioengineering, Indian Institute of Technology Roorkee Roorkee - 247 667 Uttarakhand India
| | - Mangal Singh
- Department of Biosciences and Bioengineering, Indian Institute of Technology Roorkee Roorkee - 247 667 Uttarakhand India
| | - Ranjana Pathania
- Department of Biosciences and Bioengineering, Indian Institute of Technology Roorkee Roorkee - 247 667 Uttarakhand India
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11
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Dow LF, Case AM, Paustian MP, Pinkerton BR, Simeon P, Trippier PC. The evolution of small molecule enzyme activators. RSC Med Chem 2023; 14:2206-2230. [PMID: 37974956 PMCID: PMC10650962 DOI: 10.1039/d3md00399j] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/07/2023] [Accepted: 09/20/2023] [Indexed: 11/19/2023] Open
Abstract
There is a myriad of enzymes within the body responsible for maintaining homeostasis by providing the means to convert substrates to products as and when required. Physiological enzymes are tightly controlled by many signaling pathways and their products subsequently control other pathways. Traditionally, most drug discovery efforts focus on identifying enzyme inhibitors, due to upregulation being prevalent in many diseases and the existence of endogenous substrates that can be modified to afford inhibitor compounds. As enzyme downregulation and reduction of endogenous activators are observed in multiple diseases, the identification of small molecules with the ability to activate enzymes has recently entered the medicinal chemistry toolbox to afford chemical probes and potential therapeutics as an alternative means to intervene in diseases. In this review we highlight the progress made in the identification and advancement of non-kinase enzyme activators and their potential in treating various disease states.
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Affiliation(s)
- Louise F Dow
- Department of Pharmaceutical Sciences, College of Pharmacy, University of Nebraska Medical Center Omaha NE 68106 USA
| | - Alfie M Case
- Department of Pharmaceutical Sciences, College of Pharmacy, University of Nebraska Medical Center Omaha NE 68106 USA
| | - Megan P Paustian
- Department of Pharmaceutical Sciences, College of Pharmacy, University of Nebraska Medical Center Omaha NE 68106 USA
| | - Braeden R Pinkerton
- Department of Pharmaceutical Sciences, College of Pharmacy, University of Nebraska Medical Center Omaha NE 68106 USA
| | - Princess Simeon
- Department of Pharmaceutical Sciences, College of Pharmacy, University of Nebraska Medical Center Omaha NE 68106 USA
| | - Paul C Trippier
- Department of Pharmaceutical Sciences, College of Pharmacy, University of Nebraska Medical Center Omaha NE 68106 USA
- Fred & Pamela Buffett Cancer Center, University of Nebraska Medical Center Omaha NE 68106 USA
- UNMC Center for Drug Discovery, University of Nebraska Medical Center Omaha NE 68106 USA
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12
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Glenn IS, Hall LN, Khalid MM, Ott M, Shoichet BK. Colloidal aggregation confounds cell-based Covid-19 antiviral screens. BIORXIV : THE PREPRINT SERVER FOR BIOLOGY 2023:2023.10.27.564435. [PMID: 37961552 PMCID: PMC10634915 DOI: 10.1101/2023.10.27.564435] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/15/2023]
Abstract
Colloidal aggregation is one of the largest contributors to false-positives in early drug discovery and chemical biology. Much work has focused on its impact on pure-protein screens; here we consider aggregations role in cell-based infectivity assays in Covid-19 drug repurposing. We began by investigating the potential aggregation of 41 drug candidates reported as SARs-CoV-2 entry inhibitors. Of these, 17 formed colloidal-particles by dynamic light scattering and exhibited detergent-dependent enzyme inhibition. To evaluate antiviral efficacy of the drugs in cells we used spike pseudotyped lentivirus and pre-saturation of the colloids with BSA. The antiviral potency of the aggregators was diminished by at least 10-fold and often entirely eliminated in the presence of BSA, suggesting antiviral activity can be attributed to the non-specific nature of the colloids. In confocal microscopy, the aggregates induced fluorescent puncta of labeled spike protein, consistent with sequestration of the protein on the colloidal particles. Addition of either non-ionic detergent or of BSA disrupted these puncta. These observations suggest that colloidal aggregation is common among cell-based anti-viral drug repurposing, and perhaps cell-based assays more broadly, and offers rapid counter-screens to detect and eliminate these artifacts, allowing the community invest resources in compounds with true potential as a Covid-19 therapeutic.
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Affiliation(s)
- Isabella S Glenn
- Department of Pharmaceutical Chemistry, University of California San Francisco (UCSF), San Francisco, CA, USA
| | - Lauren N Hall
- Department of Pharmaceutical Chemistry, University of California San Francisco (UCSF), San Francisco, CA, USA
| | - Mir M Khalid
- Gladstone Institutes, San Francisco, California, United States
- Department of Medicine, University of California, San Francisco, San Francisco, California, United States
| | - Melanie Ott
- Gladstone Institutes, San Francisco, California, United States
- Department of Medicine, University of California, San Francisco, San Francisco, California, United States
- Chan Zuckerberg Biohub, San Francisco, California, United States
| | - Brian K Shoichet
- Department of Pharmaceutical Chemistry, University of California San Francisco (UCSF), San Francisco, CA, USA
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13
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Roennfeldt AE, Allen TP, Trowbridge BN, Beard MR, Whitelaw ML, Russell DL, Bersten DC, Peet DJ. NanoFIRE: A NanoLuciferase and Fluorescent Integrated Reporter Element for Robust and Sensitive Investigation of HIF and Other Signalling Pathways. Biomolecules 2023; 13:1545. [PMID: 37892227 PMCID: PMC10605489 DOI: 10.3390/biom13101545] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/28/2023] [Revised: 10/16/2023] [Accepted: 10/16/2023] [Indexed: 10/29/2023] Open
Abstract
The Hypoxia Inducible Factor (HIF) transcription factors are imperative for cell adaption to low oxygen conditions and development; however, they also contribute to ischaemic disease and cancer. To identify novel genetic regulators which target the HIF pathway or small molecules for therapeutic use, cell-based reporter systems are commonly used. Here, we present a new, highly sensitive and versatile reporter system, NanoFIRE: a NanoLuciferase and Fluorescent Integrated Reporter Element. Under the control of a Hypoxic Response Element (HRE-NanoFIRE), this system is a robust sensor of HIF activity within cells and potently responds to both hypoxia and chemical inducers of the HIF pathway in a highly reproducible and sensitive manner, consistently achieving 20 to 150-fold induction across different cell types and a Z' score > 0.5. We demonstrate that the NanoFIRE system is adaptable via substitution of the response element controlling NanoLuciferase and show that it can report on the activity of the transcriptional regulator Factor Inhibiting HIF, and an unrelated transcription factor, the Progesterone Receptor. Furthermore, the lentivirus-mediated stable integration of NanoFIRE highlights the versatility of this system across a wide range of cell types, including primary cells. Together, these findings demonstrate that NanoFIRE is a robust reporter system for the investigation of HIF and other transcription factor-mediated signalling pathways in cells, with applications in high throughput screening for the identification of novel small molecule and genetic regulators.
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Affiliation(s)
- Alison E. Roennfeldt
- School of Biological Sciences, The University of Adelaide, Adelaide, SA 5005, Australia; (A.E.R.); (T.P.A.); (B.N.T.); (M.R.B.); (M.L.W.)
- Robinson Research Institute, School of Biomedicine, The University of Adelaide, Adelaide, SA 5006, Australia;
| | - Timothy P. Allen
- School of Biological Sciences, The University of Adelaide, Adelaide, SA 5005, Australia; (A.E.R.); (T.P.A.); (B.N.T.); (M.R.B.); (M.L.W.)
| | - Brooke N. Trowbridge
- School of Biological Sciences, The University of Adelaide, Adelaide, SA 5005, Australia; (A.E.R.); (T.P.A.); (B.N.T.); (M.R.B.); (M.L.W.)
- Research Centre for Infectious Diseases, School of Biological Sciences, The University of Adelaide, Adelaide, SA 5005, Australia
| | - Michael R. Beard
- School of Biological Sciences, The University of Adelaide, Adelaide, SA 5005, Australia; (A.E.R.); (T.P.A.); (B.N.T.); (M.R.B.); (M.L.W.)
- Research Centre for Infectious Diseases, School of Biological Sciences, The University of Adelaide, Adelaide, SA 5005, Australia
| | - Murray L. Whitelaw
- School of Biological Sciences, The University of Adelaide, Adelaide, SA 5005, Australia; (A.E.R.); (T.P.A.); (B.N.T.); (M.R.B.); (M.L.W.)
- ASEAN Microbiome Nutrition Centre, National Neuroscience Institute, Singapore 169857, Singapore
| | - Darryl L. Russell
- Robinson Research Institute, School of Biomedicine, The University of Adelaide, Adelaide, SA 5006, Australia;
| | - David C. Bersten
- Robinson Research Institute, School of Biomedicine, The University of Adelaide, Adelaide, SA 5006, Australia;
| | - Daniel J. Peet
- School of Biological Sciences, The University of Adelaide, Adelaide, SA 5005, Australia; (A.E.R.); (T.P.A.); (B.N.T.); (M.R.B.); (M.L.W.)
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14
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Alves VM, Yasgar A, Wellnitz J, Rai G, Rath M, Braga RC, Capuzzi SJ, Simeonov A, Muratov EN, Zakharov AV, Tropsha A. Lies and Liabilities: Computational Assessment of High-Throughput Screening Hits to Identify Artifact Compounds. J Med Chem 2023; 66:12828-12839. [PMID: 37677128 DOI: 10.1021/acs.jmedchem.3c00482] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 09/09/2023]
Abstract
Hits from high-throughput screening (HTS) of chemical libraries are often false positives due to their interference with assay detection technology. In response, we generated the largest publicly available library of chemical liabilities and developed "Liability Predictor," a free web tool to predict HTS artifacts. More specifically, we generated, curated, and integrated HTS data sets for thiol reactivity, redox activity, and luciferase (firefly and nano) activity and developed and validated quantitative structure-interference relationship (QSIR) models to predict these nuisance behaviors. The resulting models showed 58-78% external balanced accuracy for 256 external compounds per assay. QSIR models developed and validated herein identify nuisance compounds among experimental hits more reliably than do popular PAINS filters. Both the models and the curated data sets were implemented in "Liability Predictor," publicly available at https://liability.mml.unc.edu/. "Liability Predictor" may be used as part of chemical library design or for triaging HTS hits.
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Affiliation(s)
- Vinicius M Alves
- Laboratory for Molecular Modeling, Division of Chemical Biology and Medicinal Chemistry, UNC Eshelman School of Pharmacy, University of North Carolina, Chapel Hill, North Carolina 27599, United States
| | - Adam Yasgar
- National Center for Advancing Translational Sciences (NCATS), National Institutes of Health, 9800 Medical Center Drive, Rockville, Maryland 20850, United States
| | - James Wellnitz
- Laboratory for Molecular Modeling, Division of Chemical Biology and Medicinal Chemistry, UNC Eshelman School of Pharmacy, University of North Carolina, Chapel Hill, North Carolina 27599, United States
| | - Ganesha Rai
- National Center for Advancing Translational Sciences (NCATS), National Institutes of Health, 9800 Medical Center Drive, Rockville, Maryland 20850, United States
| | - Marielle Rath
- Laboratory for Molecular Modeling, Division of Chemical Biology and Medicinal Chemistry, UNC Eshelman School of Pharmacy, University of North Carolina, Chapel Hill, North Carolina 27599, United States
| | | | - Stephen J Capuzzi
- Laboratory for Molecular Modeling, Division of Chemical Biology and Medicinal Chemistry, UNC Eshelman School of Pharmacy, University of North Carolina, Chapel Hill, North Carolina 27599, United States
| | - Anton Simeonov
- National Center for Advancing Translational Sciences (NCATS), National Institutes of Health, 9800 Medical Center Drive, Rockville, Maryland 20850, United States
| | - Eugene N Muratov
- Laboratory for Molecular Modeling, Division of Chemical Biology and Medicinal Chemistry, UNC Eshelman School of Pharmacy, University of North Carolina, Chapel Hill, North Carolina 27599, United States
- Department of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Federal University of Paraiba, Joao Pessoa, PB 58059, Brazil
| | - Alexey V Zakharov
- National Center for Advancing Translational Sciences (NCATS), National Institutes of Health, 9800 Medical Center Drive, Rockville, Maryland 20850, United States
| | - Alexander Tropsha
- Laboratory for Molecular Modeling, Division of Chemical Biology and Medicinal Chemistry, UNC Eshelman School of Pharmacy, University of North Carolina, Chapel Hill, North Carolina 27599, United States
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15
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Maus H, Müller P, Meta M, Hoba SN, Hammerschmidt SJ, Zimmermann RA, Zimmer C, Fuchs N, Schirmeister T, Barthels F. Next Generation of Fluorometric Protease Assays: 7-Nitrobenz-2-oxa-1,3-diazol-4-yl-amides (NBD-Amides) as Class-Spanning Protease Substrates. Chemistry 2023; 29:e202301855. [PMID: 37313627 DOI: 10.1002/chem.202301855] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/12/2023] [Revised: 06/13/2023] [Accepted: 06/14/2023] [Indexed: 06/15/2023]
Abstract
Fluorometric assays are one of the most frequently used methods in medicinal chemistry. Over the last 50 years, the reporter molecules for the detection of protease activity have evolved from first-generation colorimetric p-nitroanilides, through FRET substrates, and 7-amino-4-methyl coumarin (AMC)-based substrates. The aim of further substrate development is to increase sensitivity and reduce vulnerability to assay interferences. Herein, we describe a new generation of substrates for protease assays based on 7-nitrobenz-2-oxa-1,3-diazol-4-yl-amides (NBD-amides). In this study, we synthesized and tested substrates for 10 different proteases from the serine-, cysteine-, and metalloprotease classes. Enzyme- and substrate-specific parameters as well as the inhibitory activity of literature-known inhibitors confirmed their suitability for application in fluorometric assays. Hence, we were able to present NBD-based alternatives for common protease substrates. In conclusion, these NBD substrates are not only less susceptible to common assay interference, but they are also able to replace FRET-based substrates with the requirement of a prime site amino acid residue.
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Affiliation(s)
- Hannah Maus
- Institute of Pharmaceutical and Biomedical Sciences, Johannes Gutenberg-University, Staudingerweg 5, 55128, Mainz, Germany
| | - Patrick Müller
- Institute of Pharmaceutical and Biomedical Sciences, Johannes Gutenberg-University, Staudingerweg 5, 55128, Mainz, Germany
| | - Mergim Meta
- Institute of Pharmaceutical and Biomedical Sciences, Johannes Gutenberg-University, Staudingerweg 5, 55128, Mainz, Germany
| | - Sabrina N Hoba
- Institute of Pharmaceutical and Biomedical Sciences, Johannes Gutenberg-University, Staudingerweg 5, 55128, Mainz, Germany
| | - Stefan J Hammerschmidt
- Institute of Pharmaceutical and Biomedical Sciences, Johannes Gutenberg-University, Staudingerweg 5, 55128, Mainz, Germany
| | - Robert A Zimmermann
- Institute of Pharmaceutical and Biomedical Sciences, Johannes Gutenberg-University, Staudingerweg 5, 55128, Mainz, Germany
| | - Collin Zimmer
- Institute of Pharmaceutical and Biomedical Sciences, Johannes Gutenberg-University, Staudingerweg 5, 55128, Mainz, Germany
| | - Natalie Fuchs
- Institute of Pharmaceutical and Biomedical Sciences, Johannes Gutenberg-University, Staudingerweg 5, 55128, Mainz, Germany
| | - Tanja Schirmeister
- Institute of Pharmaceutical and Biomedical Sciences, Johannes Gutenberg-University, Staudingerweg 5, 55128, Mainz, Germany
| | - Fabian Barthels
- Institute of Pharmaceutical and Biomedical Sciences, Johannes Gutenberg-University, Staudingerweg 5, 55128, Mainz, Germany
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16
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Ren Q, Bakker W, de Haan L, Rietjens IMCM, Bouwmeester H. Induction of Nrf2-EpRE-mediated gene expression by hydroxyanthraquinones present in extracts from traditional Chinese medicine and herbs. Food Chem Toxicol 2023; 176:113802. [PMID: 37116774 DOI: 10.1016/j.fct.2023.113802] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/15/2022] [Revised: 04/17/2023] [Accepted: 04/25/2023] [Indexed: 04/30/2023]
Abstract
Hydroxyanthraquinones that can be present in traditional Chinese medicine (TCM) and herbal extracts have claimed beneficial intestinal effects. We examined the ability of a panel hydroxyanthraquinones, and methanolic extracts from selected TCM and herbal granules to activate Nrf2-EpRE mediated gene expression using a reporter-gene assay. The results indicate that purpurin, aloe-emodin, 2-hydroxy-3-methylanthraquinone and rhein induced Nrf2 mediated gene expressions with a high induction factor (IFs>10), with BMCL10 values (the lower confidence limit of the concentration giving 10% added response above background) of 16 μM, 1.1 μM, 23 μM and 2.3 μM, respectively, while aurantio-obtusin, obtusifolin, rubiadin 1-methyl ether and emodin were less potent (IFs<5), with BMCL10 values for added response above background level of 4.6 μM, 15 μM, 9.8 μM and 3.8 μM, respectively. All TCM extracts and the herbal extracts of Aloe Vera, Polygonum multiflorum, Rubia (cordifolia) and Rheum officinale activated the Nrf2-EpRE pathway. Of the TCM extracts, Chuan-Xin-Lian-Kang-Yan-Pian was the most potent Nrf2-inducer. LC-MS/MS analysis indicated the presence of selected hydroxyanthraquinones in the extracts and herbs, in part explaining their Nrf2-EpRE mediated activity. In conclusion, different hydroxyanthraquinones have different potencies of Nrf2 activation. The Nrf2 activation by extracts from TCM and herbs can be partially explained by the presence of selected hydroxyanthraquinones.
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Affiliation(s)
- Qiuhui Ren
- Division of Toxicology, Wageningen University and Research, Stippeneng 4, 6708 WE, Wageningen, the Netherlands.
| | - Wouter Bakker
- Division of Toxicology, Wageningen University and Research, Stippeneng 4, 6708 WE, Wageningen, the Netherlands
| | - Laura de Haan
- Division of Toxicology, Wageningen University and Research, Stippeneng 4, 6708 WE, Wageningen, the Netherlands
| | - Ivonne M C M Rietjens
- Division of Toxicology, Wageningen University and Research, Stippeneng 4, 6708 WE, Wageningen, the Netherlands
| | - Hans Bouwmeester
- Division of Toxicology, Wageningen University and Research, Stippeneng 4, 6708 WE, Wageningen, the Netherlands
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17
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Practical Guidance for Developing Small-Molecule Optical Probes for In Vivo Imaging. Mol Imaging Biol 2023; 25:240-264. [PMID: 36745354 DOI: 10.1007/s11307-023-01800-1] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/23/2022] [Revised: 12/31/2022] [Accepted: 01/05/2023] [Indexed: 02/07/2023]
Abstract
The WMIS Education Committee (2019-2022) reached a consensus that white papers on molecular imaging could be beneficial for practitioners of molecular imaging at their early career stages and other scientists who are interested in molecular imaging. With this consensus, the committee plans to publish a series of white papers on topics related to the daily practice of molecular imaging. In this white paper, we aim to provide practical guidance that could be helpful for optical molecular imaging, particularly for small molecule probe development and validation in vitro and in vivo. The focus of this paper is preclinical animal studies with small-molecule optical probes. Near-infrared fluorescence imaging, bioluminescence imaging, chemiluminescence imaging, image-guided surgery, and Cerenkov luminescence imaging are discussed in this white paper.
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18
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The optimization of photoinitiation system for holography by receiving the protection from dithiothreitol. Eur Polym J 2022. [DOI: 10.1016/j.eurpolymj.2022.111733] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/29/2022]
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19
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Discovery, enantioselective synthesis of myrtucommulone E analogues as tyrosyl-DNA phosphodiesterase 2 inhibitors and their biological activities. Eur J Med Chem 2022; 238:114445. [DOI: 10.1016/j.ejmech.2022.114445] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/07/2022] [Revised: 04/26/2022] [Accepted: 05/05/2022] [Indexed: 11/20/2022]
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20
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Martin MM, Baker NC, Boyes WK, Carstens KE, Culbreth ME, Gilbert ME, Harrill JA, Nyffeler J, Padilla S, Friedman KP, Shafer TJ. An expert-driven literature review of "negative" chemicals for developmental neurotoxicity (DNT) in vitro assay evaluation. Neurotoxicol Teratol 2022; 93:107117. [PMID: 35908584 DOI: 10.1016/j.ntt.2022.107117] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/04/2022] [Revised: 06/27/2022] [Accepted: 07/18/2022] [Indexed: 11/26/2022]
Abstract
To date, approximately 200 chemicals have been tested in US Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) or Organization for Economic Co-operation and Development (OECD) developmental neurotoxicity (DNT) guideline studies, leaving thousands of chemicals without traditional animal information on DNT hazard potential. To address this data gap, a battery of in vitro DNT new approach methodologies (NAMs) has been proposed. Evaluation of the performance of this battery will increase the confidence in its use to determine DNT chemical hazards. One approach to evaluate DNT NAM performance is to use a set of chemicals to evaluate sensitivity and specificity. Since a list of chemicals with potential evidence of in vivo DNT has been established, this study aims to develop a curated list of "negative" chemicals for inclusion in a "DNT NAM evaluation set". A workflow, including a literature search followed by an expert-driven literature review, was used to systematically screen 39 chemicals for lack of DNT effect. Expert panel members evaluated the scientific robustness of relevant studies to inform chemical categorizations. Following review, the panel discussed each chemical and made categorical determinations of "Favorable", "Not Favorable", or "Indeterminate" reflecting acceptance, lack of suitability, or uncertainty given specific limitations and considerations, respectively. The panel determined that 10, 22, and 7 chemicals met the criteria for "Favorable", "Not Favorable", and "Indeterminate", for use as negatives in a DNT NAM evaluation set. Ultimately, this approach not only supports DNT NAM performance evaluation but also highlights challenges in identifying large numbers of negative DNT chemicals.
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Affiliation(s)
- Melissa M Martin
- Rapid Assay Development Branch, Biomolecular and Computational Toxicology Division, CCTE/ORD, U.S. Environmental Protection Agency, Research Triangle Park, NC 27711, USA
| | - Nancy C Baker
- Leidos, Research Triangle Park, Research Triangle Park, NC 27711, USA
| | - William K Boyes
- Neurological and Endocrine Toxicology Branch, Public Health and Integrated Toxicology Division, CPHEA/ORD, U.S. Environmental Protection Agency, Research Triangle Park, NC 27711, USA
| | - Kelly E Carstens
- Rapid Assay Development Branch, Biomolecular and Computational Toxicology Division, CCTE/ORD, U.S. Environmental Protection Agency, Research Triangle Park, NC 27711, USA
| | - Megan E Culbreth
- Rapid Assay Development Branch, Biomolecular and Computational Toxicology Division, CCTE/ORD, U.S. Environmental Protection Agency, Research Triangle Park, NC 27711, USA
| | - Mary E Gilbert
- Neurological and Endocrine Toxicology Branch, Public Health and Integrated Toxicology Division, CPHEA/ORD, U.S. Environmental Protection Agency, Research Triangle Park, NC 27711, USA
| | - Joshua A Harrill
- Rapid Assay Development Branch, Biomolecular and Computational Toxicology Division, CCTE/ORD, U.S. Environmental Protection Agency, Research Triangle Park, NC 27711, USA
| | - Johanna Nyffeler
- Rapid Assay Development Branch, Biomolecular and Computational Toxicology Division, CCTE/ORD, U.S. Environmental Protection Agency, Research Triangle Park, NC 27711, USA; Oak Ridge Institute for Science and Education (ORISE), Oak Ridge, TN, USA
| | - Stephanie Padilla
- Rapid Assay Development Branch, Biomolecular and Computational Toxicology Division, CCTE/ORD, U.S. Environmental Protection Agency, Research Triangle Park, NC 27711, USA
| | - Katie Paul Friedman
- Computational Toxicology & Bioinformatics Branch, Biomolecular and Computational Toxicology Division, CCTE/ORD, U.S. Environmental Protection Agency, Research Triangle Park, NC 27711, USA
| | - Timothy J Shafer
- Rapid Assay Development Branch, Biomolecular and Computational Toxicology Division, CCTE/ORD, U.S. Environmental Protection Agency, Research Triangle Park, NC 27711, USA.
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21
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Song WS, Koh DH, Kim EY. Orthogonal assay for validation of Tox21 PPARγ data and applicability to in silico prediction model. Toxicol In Vitro 2022; 84:105445. [PMID: 35863590 DOI: 10.1016/j.tiv.2022.105445] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/17/2022] [Revised: 07/01/2022] [Accepted: 07/13/2022] [Indexed: 11/28/2022]
Abstract
High-throughput screening data from the Tox21 database is used for prioritizing hazardous chemicals and building in silico-based toxicity prediction models. One of the Tox21 dataset, peroxisome proliferator-activated receptor-gamma (PPARγ), a nuclear receptor superfamily, identified various endpoints in HEK293 cells. PPARγ mediates various toxic effects when its receptors are activated or inhibited by ligands such as thiazolidinedione and GW9662. In this study, an orthogonal assay was constructed to verify the effectiveness of the Tox21 PPARγ data, and the effect of highly reliable data on in silico model construction was investigated. The orthogonal assay was a reporter gene assay based on the PPARγ ligand binding domain in CV-1 cells. Only 39% of agonists and 55% of antagonists had similar responses in CV-1 and HEK293 cells. Thus, the effectiveness of Tox21 data on PPARγ may vary depending on the cell line. However, in silico PLS-DA analysis with only high-reliability data (i.e., the same response in both cell lines), yielded more accurate prediction of the activity of potential chemical ligands, despite the small number of samples. Thus, obtaining reliable chemical screening data for PPARγ through orthogonal analysis, even for only limited chemicals, supports the construction of highly predictive in silico models with improved screening efficiency.
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Affiliation(s)
- Woo-Seon Song
- Department of Biomedical and Pharmaceutical Sciences, Kyung Hee University, Hoegi-Dong, Dongdaemun-Gu, Seoul 130-701, Republic of Korea
| | - Dong-Hee Koh
- Department of Biology, Kyung Hee University, Hoegi-Dong, Dongdaemun-Gu, Seoul 130-701, Republic of Korea
| | - Eun-Young Kim
- Department of Biomedical and Pharmaceutical Sciences, Kyung Hee University, Hoegi-Dong, Dongdaemun-Gu, Seoul 130-701, Republic of Korea; Department of Biology, Kyung Hee University, Hoegi-Dong, Dongdaemun-Gu, Seoul 130-701, Republic of Korea.
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22
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Winter M, Simon RP, Wang Y, Bretschneider T, Bauer M, Magarkar A, Reindl W, Fernández-Montalván A, Montel F, Büttner FH. Differential analyte derivatization enables unbiased MALDI-TOF-based high-throughput screening: A proof-of-concept study for the discovery of catechol-o-methyltransferase inhibitors. SLAS DISCOVERY : ADVANCING LIFE SCIENCES R & D 2022; 27:287-297. [PMID: 35597517 DOI: 10.1016/j.slasd.2022.05.002] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/04/2022] [Revised: 05/12/2022] [Accepted: 05/13/2022] [Indexed: 06/15/2023]
Abstract
Recent advances in label-free high-throughput screening via matrix-assisted laser desorption/ionization time-of-flight (MALDI-TOF) mass spectrometry (MS) offer unprecedented opportunities for the identification of novel chemical starting points in target-based drug discovery. A clear advantage of the technology is the possibility for label-free, direct quantification of analytes with high precision and robustness. Here we have expanded the range of analytes and biology that can be addressed via MALDI-TOF HTS, by developing a method based on post-reaction pyrylium-based derivatization to detect 3-methoxytyramine, the physiological enzyme product of the catechol-O-methyltransferase (COMT) enzyme. The introduction of pyrylium-type reagents as universal derivatization strategy under aqueous conditions for molecules containing primary amines represents a valuable addition to the toolbox of MALDI-TOF assay development. Characterization of COMT's enzymatic activity and inhibition by reference inhibitors, and comparison of the results obtained in our assay with data from previous mechanistic studies validated the performance of this new method. To address the problem of isobaric interference, a source of false results in MALDI-TOF assays measuring low molecular weight analytes, we devised a differential derivatization workflow which can potentially replace other counter- or orthogonal assays in future screening campaigns. Finally, we report on the first label-free HTS campaign for the identification of COMT inhibitors performed in miniaturized 1536-well microtiter plate format via MALDI-TOF MS analysis.
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Affiliation(s)
- Martin Winter
- Drug Discovery Sciences, Boehringer Ingelheim Pharma GmbH & Co. KG, Biberach an der Riß, Germany.
| | - Roman P Simon
- Drug Discovery Sciences, Boehringer Ingelheim Pharma GmbH & Co. KG, Biberach an der Riß, Germany
| | - Yuting Wang
- Drug Discovery Sciences, Boehringer Ingelheim Pharma GmbH & Co. KG, Biberach an der Riß, Germany
| | - Tom Bretschneider
- Drug Discovery Sciences, Boehringer Ingelheim Pharma GmbH & Co. KG, Biberach an der Riß, Germany
| | - Margit Bauer
- Medicinal Chemistry, Boehringer Ingelheim Pharma GmbH & Co. KG, Biberach an der Riß, Germany
| | - Aniket Magarkar
- Medicinal Chemistry, Boehringer Ingelheim Pharma GmbH & Co. KG, Biberach an der Riß, Germany
| | - Wolfgang Reindl
- Drug Discovery Sciences, Boehringer Ingelheim Pharma GmbH & Co. KG, Biberach an der Riß, Germany
| | | | - Florian Montel
- Medicinal Chemistry, Boehringer Ingelheim Pharma GmbH & Co. KG, Biberach an der Riß, Germany
| | - Frank H Büttner
- Drug Discovery Sciences, Boehringer Ingelheim Pharma GmbH & Co. KG, Biberach an der Riß, Germany.
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23
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Molyneux C, Sinclair I, Lightfoot HL, Walsh J, Holdgate GA, Moore R. High-throughput detection of metal contamination in HTS outputs. SLAS DISCOVERY : ADVANCING LIFE SCIENCES R & D 2022; 27:323-329. [PMID: 35311668 DOI: 10.1016/j.slasd.2022.03.003] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/12/2022] [Revised: 03/13/2022] [Accepted: 03/15/2022] [Indexed: 06/14/2023]
Abstract
Large compound libraries utilised for HTS often include metal contaminated compounds which can interfere with assay signal or target biology, and therefore appear as hits. Pursuit of these compounds can divert considerable time and resource away from more propitious hits, yet there is currently no established method of detecting metal impurities in a rapid and effective manner. Here we describe the development and application of a high-throughput method to identify metal contaminants using acoustic mist ionisation mass spectrometry (AMI-MS). Although metals species by themselves are not detectable by AMI-MS, we have identified two compounds that chelate metal ions and enable their detection. 6-(diethylamino)-1,3,5-triazine-2,4(1H,3H)-dithione (DMT) and 1-(3-{[4-(4-cyanophenyl)-1-piperidinyl]carbonyl}-4-methylphenyl)-3-ethylthiourea (TU) can form complexes with a range of metal ions. Using a collection of metal catalysts, we have developed two metal chelator assays that collectively allow for the detection of Ag, Au, Co, Cu, Fe, Pd, Pt and Zn. We employed these assays to profile the hit outputs of a Zn liable target, and a Pd liable target, and identified significant quantities of metal contaminated compounds in the HTS outputs. This work provides a method of rapidly identifying metal impurities in hit compounds and has become part of an established workflow in triaging HTS outputs at AstraZeneca, facilitating faster identification of robust lead series.
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Affiliation(s)
- Corinne Molyneux
- High Throughput Screening, Hit Discovery, Discovery Sciences, R&D BioPharmaceuticals, AstraZeneca, Alderley Park, United Kingdom
| | - Ian Sinclair
- Sample Management, Discovery Sciences, R&D BioPharmaceuticals, AstraZeneca, Alderley Park, United Kingdom
| | - Helen L Lightfoot
- Safety and Mechanistic Pharmacology, Safety Sciences, R&D BioPharmaceuticals, AstraZeneca, Cambridge, United Kingdom
| | - Jarrod Walsh
- High Throughput Screening, Hit Discovery, Discovery Sciences, R&D BioPharmaceuticals, AstraZeneca, Alderley Park, United Kingdom
| | - Geoffrey A Holdgate
- High Throughput Screening, Hit Discovery, Discovery Sciences, R&D BioPharmaceuticals, AstraZeneca, Alderley Park, United Kingdom
| | - Rachel Moore
- High Throughput Screening, Hit Discovery, Discovery Sciences, R&D BioPharmaceuticals, AstraZeneca, Alderley Park, United Kingdom.
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24
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Shrimp JH, Janiszewski J, Chen CZ, Xu M, Wilson KM, Kales SC, Sanderson PE, Shinn P, Schneider R, Itkin Z, Guo H, Shen M, Klumpp-Thomas C, Michael SG, Zheng W, Simeonov A, Hall MD. Suite of TMPRSS2 Assays for Screening Drug Repurposing Candidates as Potential Treatments of COVID-19. ACS Infect Dis 2022; 8:1191-1203. [PMID: 35648838 PMCID: PMC9172053 DOI: 10.1021/acsinfecdis.2c00172] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/28/2022] [Indexed: 12/27/2022]
Abstract
SARS-CoV-2 is the causative viral pathogen driving the COVID-19 pandemic that prompted an immediate global response to the development of vaccines and antiviral therapeutics. For antiviral therapeutics, drug repurposing allows for rapid movement of the existing clinical candidates and therapies into human clinical trials to be tested as COVID-19 therapies. One effective antiviral treatment strategy used early in symptom onset is to prevent viral entry. SARS-CoV-2 enters ACE2-expressing cells when the receptor-binding domain of the spike protein on the surface of SARS-CoV-2 binds to ACE2 followed by cleavage at two cut sites by TMPRSS2. Therefore, a molecule capable of inhibiting the protease activity of TMPRSS2 could be a valuable antiviral therapy. Initially, we used a fluorogenic high-throughput screening assay for the biochemical screening of 6030 compounds in NCATS annotated libraries. Then, we developed an orthogonal biochemical assay that uses mass spectrometry detection of product formation to ensure that hits from the primary screen are not assay artifacts from the fluorescent detection of product formation. Finally, we assessed the hits from the biochemical screening in a cell-based SARS-CoV-2 pseudotyped particle entry assay. Of the six molecules advanced for further studies, two are approved drugs in Japan (camostat and nafamostat), two have entered clinical trials (PCI-27483 and otamixaban), while the other two molecules are peptidomimetic inhibitors of TMPRSS2 taken from the literature that have not advanced into clinical trials (compounds 92 and 114). This work demonstrates a suite of assays for the discovery and development of new inhibitors of TMPRSS2.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jonathan H. Shrimp
- National Center for Advancing Translational Sciences, National Institutes of Health, Rockville, MD, 20850
| | - John Janiszewski
- National Center for Advancing Translational Sciences, National Institutes of Health, Rockville, MD, 20850
| | - Catherine Z. Chen
- National Center for Advancing Translational Sciences, National Institutes of Health, Rockville, MD, 20850
| | - Miao Xu
- National Center for Advancing Translational Sciences, National Institutes of Health, Rockville, MD, 20850
| | - Kelli M. Wilson
- National Center for Advancing Translational Sciences, National Institutes of Health, Rockville, MD, 20850
| | - Stephen C. Kales
- National Center for Advancing Translational Sciences, National Institutes of Health, Rockville, MD, 20850
| | - Philip E. Sanderson
- National Center for Advancing Translational Sciences, National Institutes of Health, Rockville, MD, 20850
| | - Paul Shinn
- National Center for Advancing Translational Sciences, National Institutes of Health, Rockville, MD, 20850
| | - Rick Schneider
- National Center for Advancing Translational Sciences, National Institutes of Health, Rockville, MD, 20850
| | - Zina Itkin
- National Center for Advancing Translational Sciences, National Institutes of Health, Rockville, MD, 20850
| | - Hui Guo
- National Center for Advancing Translational Sciences, National Institutes of Health, Rockville, MD, 20850
| | - Min Shen
- National Center for Advancing Translational Sciences, National Institutes of Health, Rockville, MD, 20850
| | - Carleen Klumpp-Thomas
- National Center for Advancing Translational Sciences, National Institutes of Health, Rockville, MD, 20850
| | - Samuel G. Michael
- National Center for Advancing Translational Sciences, National Institutes of Health, Rockville, MD, 20850
| | - Wei Zheng
- National Center for Advancing Translational Sciences, National Institutes of Health, Rockville, MD, 20850
| | - Anton Simeonov
- National Center for Advancing Translational Sciences, National Institutes of Health, Rockville, MD, 20850
| | - Matthew D. Hall
- National Center for Advancing Translational Sciences, National Institutes of Health, Rockville, MD, 20850
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25
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Davies G, Vincent J, Packer MJ, Murray D. Grouping concentration response curves by features of their shape to aid rapid and consistent analysis of large data sets in high throughput screens. SLAS DISCOVERY : ADVANCING LIFE SCIENCES R & D 2022; 27:272-277. [PMID: 35058182 DOI: 10.1016/j.slasd.2021.11.004] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 06/14/2023]
Affiliation(s)
- Gareth Davies
- Hit Discovery, Discovery Sciences, BioPharmaceuticals R&D, AstraZeneca, Alderley Park, UK.
| | - John Vincent
- Hit Discovery, Discovery Sciences, BioPharmaceuticals R&D, AstraZeneca, Alderley Park, UK; Discovery Science & Technology, Medicines Discovery Catapult, Alderley Park, UK
| | | | - David Murray
- Hit Discovery, Discovery Sciences, BioPharmaceuticals R&D, AstraZeneca, Alderley Park, UK; Lighthouse Laboratory, Medicines Discovery Catapult, Alderley Park, UK
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26
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Sato Y, Miura H, Tanabe T, Okeke CU, Kikuchi A, Nishizawa S. Fluorescence Sensing of the Panhandle Structure of the Influenza A Virus RNA Promoter by Thiazole Orange Base Surrogate-Carrying Peptide Nucleic Acid Conjugated with Small Molecule. Anal Chem 2022; 94:7814-7822. [PMID: 35604144 DOI: 10.1021/acs.analchem.1c05488] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/28/2022]
Abstract
We have developed a new class of triplex-forming peptide nucleic acid (PNA)-based fluorogenic probes for sensing of the panhandle structure of the influenza A virus (IAV) RNA promoter region. Here, a small molecule (DPQ) capable of selectively binding to the internal loop structure was conjugated with triplex-forming forced intercalation of the thiazole orange (tFIT) probe with natural PNA nucleobases. The resulting conjugate, tFIT-DPQ, showed a significant light-up response (83-fold) upon strong (Kd = 107 nM) and structure-selective binding to the IAV RNA promoter region under physiological conditions (pH 7.0, 100 mM NaCl). We demonstrated the conjugation of these two units through the suitable spacer was key to show useful binding and fluorogenic signaling functions. tFIT-DPQ facilitated the sensitive and selective detection of IAV RNA based on its binding to the promoter region. Furthermore, we found that tFIT-DPQ could work as a sensitive indicator for screening of test compounds targeting the IAV RNA promoter region in the fluorescence indicator displacement assay.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yusuke Sato
- Department of Chemistry, Graduate School of Science, Tohoku University, Sendai 980-8578, Japan
| | - Hiromasa Miura
- Department of Chemistry, Graduate School of Science, Tohoku University, Sendai 980-8578, Japan
| | - Takaaki Tanabe
- Department of Chemistry, Graduate School of Science, Tohoku University, Sendai 980-8578, Japan
| | - Chioma Uche Okeke
- Department of Chemistry, Graduate School of Science, Tohoku University, Sendai 980-8578, Japan
| | - Akiko Kikuchi
- Department of Kampo and Integrative Medicine, Graduate School of Medicine, Tohoku University, Sendai 980-8575, Japan
| | - Seiichi Nishizawa
- Department of Chemistry, Graduate School of Science, Tohoku University, Sendai 980-8578, Japan
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27
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Comparative Analyses of Medicinal Chemistry and Cheminformatics Filters with Accessible Implementation in Konstanz Information Miner (KNIME). Int J Mol Sci 2022; 23:ijms23105727. [PMID: 35628532 PMCID: PMC9147459 DOI: 10.3390/ijms23105727] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/20/2022] [Revised: 05/10/2022] [Accepted: 05/16/2022] [Indexed: 11/30/2022] Open
Abstract
High-throughput virtual screening (HTVS) is, in conjunction with rapid advances in computer hardware, becoming a staple in drug design research campaigns and cheminformatics. In this context, virtual compound library design becomes crucial as it generally constitutes the first step where quality filtered databases are essential for the efficient downstream research. Therefore, multiple filters for compound library design were devised and reported in the scientific literature. We collected the most common filters in medicinal chemistry (PAINS, REOS, Aggregators, van de Waterbeemd, Oprea, Fichert, Ghose, Mozzicconacci, Muegge, Egan, Murcko, Veber, Ro3, Ro4, and Ro5) to facilitate their open access use and compared them. Then, we implemented these filters in the open platform Konstanz Information Miner (KNIME) as a freely accessible and simple workflow compatible with small or large compound databases for the benefit of the readers and for the help in the early drug design steps.
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28
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Crofton KM, Bassan A, Behl M, Chushak YG, Fritsche E, Gearhart JM, Marty MS, Mumtaz M, Pavan M, Ruiz P, Sachana M, Selvam R, Shafer TJ, Stavitskaya L, Szabo DT, Szabo ST, Tice RR, Wilson D, Woolley D, Myatt GJ. Current status and future directions for a neurotoxicity hazard assessment framework that integrates in silico approaches. COMPUTATIONAL TOXICOLOGY (AMSTERDAM, NETHERLANDS) 2022; 22:100223. [PMID: 35844258 PMCID: PMC9281386 DOI: 10.1016/j.comtox.2022.100223] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 04/27/2023]
Abstract
Neurotoxicology is the study of adverse effects on the structure or function of the developing or mature adult nervous system following exposure to chemical, biological, or physical agents. The development of more informative alternative methods to assess developmental (DNT) and adult (NT) neurotoxicity induced by xenobiotics is critically needed. The use of such alternative methods including in silico approaches that predict DNT or NT from chemical structure (e.g., statistical-based and expert rule-based systems) is ideally based on a comprehensive understanding of the relevant biological mechanisms. This paper discusses known mechanisms alongside the current state of the art in DNT/NT testing. In silico approaches available today that support the assessment of neurotoxicity based on knowledge of chemical structure are reviewed, and a conceptual framework for the integration of in silico methods with experimental information is presented. Establishing this framework is essential for the development of protocols, namely standardized approaches, to ensure that assessments of NT and DNT based on chemical structures are generated in a transparent, consistent, and defendable manner.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Arianna Bassan
- Innovatune srl, Via Giulio Zanon 130/D, 35129 Padova,
Italy
| | - Mamta Behl
- Division of the National Toxicology Program, National
Institutes of Environmental Health Sciences, Durham, NC 27709, USA
| | - Yaroslav G. Chushak
- Henry M Jackson Foundation for the Advancement of Military
Medicine, Wright-Patterson AFB, OH 45433, USA
| | - Ellen Fritsche
- IUF – Leibniz Research Institute for Environmental
Medicine & Medical Faculty Heinrich-Heine-University, Düsseldorf,
Germany
| | - Jeffery M. Gearhart
- Henry M Jackson Foundation for the Advancement of Military
Medicine, Wright-Patterson AFB, OH 45433, USA
| | | | - Moiz Mumtaz
- Agency for Toxic Substances and Disease Registry, US
Department of Health and Human Services, Atlanta, GA, USA
| | - Manuela Pavan
- Innovatune srl, Via Giulio Zanon 130/D, 35129 Padova,
Italy
| | - Patricia Ruiz
- Agency for Toxic Substances and Disease Registry, US
Department of Health and Human Services, Atlanta, GA, USA
| | - Magdalini Sachana
- Environment Health and Safety Division, Environment
Directorate, Organisation for Economic Co-Operation and Development (OECD), 75775
Paris Cedex 16, France
| | - Rajamani Selvam
- Office of Clinical Pharmacology, Office of Translational
Sciences, Center for Drug Evaluation and Research (CDER), U.S. Food and Drug
Administration (FDA), Silver Spring, MD 20993, USA
| | - Timothy J. Shafer
- Biomolecular and Computational Toxicology Division, Center
for Computational Toxicology and Exposure, US EPA, Research Triangle Park, NC,
USA
| | - Lidiya Stavitskaya
- Office of Clinical Pharmacology, Office of Translational
Sciences, Center for Drug Evaluation and Research (CDER), U.S. Food and Drug
Administration (FDA), Silver Spring, MD 20993, USA
| | | | | | | | - Dan Wilson
- The Dow Chemical Company, Midland, MI 48667, USA
| | | | - Glenn J. Myatt
- Instem, Columbus, OH 43215, USA
- Corresponding author.
(G.J. Myatt)
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29
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Differentiating Inhibitors of Closely Related Protein Kinases with Single- or Multi-Target Activity via Explainable Machine Learning and Feature Analysis. Biomolecules 2022; 12:biom12040557. [PMID: 35454147 PMCID: PMC9032434 DOI: 10.3390/biom12040557] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/18/2022] [Revised: 04/01/2022] [Accepted: 04/06/2022] [Indexed: 01/01/2023] Open
Abstract
Protein kinases are major drug targets. Most kinase inhibitors are directed against the adenosine triphosphate (ATP) cofactor binding site, which is largely conserved across the human kinome. Hence, such kinase inhibitors are often thought to be promiscuous. However, experimental evidence and activity data for publicly available kinase inhibitors indicate that this is not generally the case. We have investigated whether inhibitors of closely related human kinases with single- or multi-kinase activity can be differentiated on the basis of chemical structure. Therefore, a test system consisting of two distinct kinase triplets has been devised for which inhibitors with reported triple-kinase activities and corresponding single-kinase activities were assembled. Machine learning models derived on the basis of chemical structure distinguished between these multi- and single-kinase inhibitors with high accuracy. A model-independent explanatory approach was applied to identify structural features determining accurate predictions. For both kinase triplets, the analysis revealed decisive features contained in multi-kinase inhibitors. These features were found to be absent in corresponding single-kinase inhibitors, thus providing a rationale for successful machine learning. Mapping of features determining accurate predictions revealed that they formed coherent and chemically meaningful substructures that were characteristic of multi-kinase inhibitors compared with single-kinase inhibitors.
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30
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Huang R. A Quantitative High-Throughput Screening Data Analysis Pipeline for Activity Profiling. METHODS IN MOLECULAR BIOLOGY (CLIFTON, N.J.) 2022; 2474:133-145. [PMID: 35294762 DOI: 10.1007/978-1-0716-2213-1_13] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/18/2022]
Abstract
The U.S. Tox21 program has developed in vitro assays to test large collections of environmental chemicals in a quantitative high-throughput screening (qHTS) format, using triplicate 15-dose titrations to generate over 100 million data points to date. Counterscreens are also employed to minimize interferences from non-target-specific assay artifacts, such as compound autofluorescence and cytotoxicity. New data analysis approaches are needed to integrate these data and characterize the activities observed from these assays. Here, we describe a complete analysis pipeline that evaluates these qHTS data for technical quality in terms of signal reproducibility. We integrate signals from repeated assay runs, primary readouts and counterscreens to produce a final call on on-target compound activity.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ruili Huang
- National Center for Advancing Translational Sciences, National Institutes of Health, Bethesda, MD, USA.
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31
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Tang Z, Hegde S, Zhao J, Zhu S, Johnson KA, Lorson CL, Wang J. CRISPR-mediated Enzyme Fragment Complementation Assay for Quantification of the Stability of Splice Isoforms. Chembiochem 2022; 23:e202200012. [PMID: 35235240 DOI: 10.1002/cbic.202200012] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/05/2022] [Revised: 02/22/2022] [Indexed: 11/06/2022]
Abstract
Small-molecule splicing modulators exemplified by an FDA-approved drug, risdiplam, are a new pharmacological modality for regulating the expression and stability of splice isoforms. We report a CRISPR-mediated enzyme fragment complementation (EFC) assay to quantify the splice isoform stability. The EFC assay harnessed a 42 amino acid split of a β-galactosidase (designate α-tag), which could be fused at the termini of the target genes using CRISPR/cas9. The α-tagged splice isoform would be quantified by measuring the enzymatic activity upon complementation with the rest of β-galactosidase. This EFC assay retained all the sequences of introns and exons of the target gene in the native genomic environment that recapitulates the cell biology of the diseases of interest. For a proof-of-concept, we developed a CRISPR-mediated EFC assay targeting the exon 7 of the survival of motor neuron 2 (SMN2) gene. The EFC assay compatible with 384-well plates robustly quantified the splicing modulation activity of small molecules. In this study, we also discovered that a coumarin derivative, compound 4, potently modulate SMN2 splicing at as low as 1.1 nM.
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Affiliation(s)
- Zhichao Tang
- University of Kansas School of Pharmacy, Medicinal Chemistry, UNITED STATES
| | - Shalakha Hegde
- University of Kansas School of Pharmacy, Medicinal Chemistry, UNITED STATES
| | - Junxing Zhao
- University of Kansas School of Pharmacy, Medicinal Chemistry, UNITED STATES
| | - Shoutian Zhu
- PhenoTarget BioSciences, Inc., Biology, UNITED STATES
| | | | | | - Jingxin Wang
- University of Kansas, Medicinal Chemistry, 2034 Becker Dr, 1050, 66047, Lawrence, UNITED STATES
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32
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Shi R, Pan P, Lv R, Ma C, Wu E, Guo R, Zhao Z, Song H, Zhou J, Liu Y, Xu G, Hou T, Kang Z, Liu J. High-throughput glycolytic inhibitor discovery targeting glioblastoma by graphite dots-assisted LDI mass spectrometry. SCIENCE ADVANCES 2022; 8:eabl4923. [PMID: 35171681 PMCID: PMC10921956 DOI: 10.1126/sciadv.abl4923] [Citation(s) in RCA: 13] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/16/2021] [Accepted: 12/23/2021] [Indexed: 06/14/2023]
Abstract
Malignant tumors will become vulnerable if their uncontrolled biosynthesis and energy consumption engaged in metabolic reprogramming can be cut off. Here, we report finding a glycolytic inhibitor targeting glioblastoma with graphite dots-assisted laser desorption/ionization mass spectrometry as an integrated drug screening and pharmacokinetic platform (GLMSD). We have performed high-throughput virtual screening to narrow an initial library of 240,000 compounds down to the docking of 40 compounds and identified five previously unknown chemical scaffolds as promising hexokinase-2 inhibitors. The best inhibitor (Compd 27) can regulate the reprogrammed metabolic pathway in U87 glioma cells (median inhibitory concentration ~ 11.3 μM) for tumor suppression. Highly effective therapy against glioblastoma has been demonstrated in both subcutaneous and orthotopic brain tumors by synergizing Compd 27 and temozolomide. Our glycolytic inhibitor discovery can inspire personalized medicine targeting reprogrammed metabolisms of malignant tumors. GLMSD enables large, high-quality data for next-generation artificial intelligence-aided drug development.
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Affiliation(s)
- Rui Shi
- Institute of Functional Nano and Soft Materials (FUNSOM), Jiangsu Key Laboratory for Carbon-Based Functional Materials and Devices, Soochow University, Suzhou, Jiangsu 215123, China
| | - Peichen Pan
- College of Pharmaceutical Sciences and State Key Lab of CAD&CG, Zhejiang University, Hangzhou, Zhejiang 310058, China
- Department of Cancer Biology, Dana-Farber Cancer Institute, Boston, MA 02215, USA
- Department of Biological Chemistry and Molecular Pharmacology, Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA 02115, USA
| | - Rui Lv
- Institute of Functional Nano and Soft Materials (FUNSOM), Jiangsu Key Laboratory for Carbon-Based Functional Materials and Devices, Soochow University, Suzhou, Jiangsu 215123, China
| | - Chongqing Ma
- Institute of Functional Nano and Soft Materials (FUNSOM), Jiangsu Key Laboratory for Carbon-Based Functional Materials and Devices, Soochow University, Suzhou, Jiangsu 215123, China
| | - Enhui Wu
- Institute of Functional Nano and Soft Materials (FUNSOM), Jiangsu Key Laboratory for Carbon-Based Functional Materials and Devices, Soochow University, Suzhou, Jiangsu 215123, China
| | - Ruochen Guo
- Institute of Functional Nano and Soft Materials (FUNSOM), Jiangsu Key Laboratory for Carbon-Based Functional Materials and Devices, Soochow University, Suzhou, Jiangsu 215123, China
| | - Zhihao Zhao
- Institute of Functional Nano and Soft Materials (FUNSOM), Jiangsu Key Laboratory for Carbon-Based Functional Materials and Devices, Soochow University, Suzhou, Jiangsu 215123, China
| | - Hexing Song
- College of Information and Electrical Engineering, China Agricultural University, Beijing, China
| | - Joe Zhou
- College of Information and Electrical Engineering, China Agricultural University, Beijing, China
| | - Yang Liu
- Institute of Functional Nano and Soft Materials (FUNSOM), Jiangsu Key Laboratory for Carbon-Based Functional Materials and Devices, Soochow University, Suzhou, Jiangsu 215123, China
| | - Guoqiang Xu
- Jiangsu Key Laboratory of Neuropsychiatric Diseases and College of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Soochow University, Suzhou, Jiangsu 215123, China
| | - Tingjun Hou
- College of Pharmaceutical Sciences and State Key Lab of CAD&CG, Zhejiang University, Hangzhou, Zhejiang 310058, China
| | - Zhenhui Kang
- Institute of Functional Nano and Soft Materials (FUNSOM), Jiangsu Key Laboratory for Carbon-Based Functional Materials and Devices, Soochow University, Suzhou, Jiangsu 215123, China
- Macao Institute of Materials Science and Engineering, Macau University of Science and Technology, Taipa, Macau SAR 999078, China
| | - Jian Liu
- Institute of Functional Nano and Soft Materials (FUNSOM), Jiangsu Key Laboratory for Carbon-Based Functional Materials and Devices, Soochow University, Suzhou, Jiangsu 215123, China
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33
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Chatzopoulou M, Madden KS, Bromhead LJ, Greaves C, Cogswell TJ, Da Silva Pinto S, Galan SRG, Georgiou I, Kennedy MS, Kennett A, Apps G, Russell AJ, Wynne GM. Pilot Study to Quantify Palladium Impurities in Lead-like Compounds Following Commonly Used Purification Techniques. ACS Med Chem Lett 2022; 13:262-270. [PMID: 35173892 PMCID: PMC8842129 DOI: 10.1021/acsmedchemlett.1c00638] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/14/2021] [Accepted: 01/11/2022] [Indexed: 01/03/2023] Open
Abstract
![]()
Palladium-catalyzed
reactions are among the most commonly used
procedures in organic synthesis. The products have a range of uses,
including as intermediates in total synthesis and as screening compounds
for drug discovery or agrochemical projects. Despite the known and
potentially deleterious effects of low-level metal impurities in biological
assays, the quantification of metal remaining in reaction products
to verify the effective removal of the transition element is rarely
reported. Using palladium as an exemplar, we describe a pilot study
that for the first time quantifies residual metal levels in reaction
products following increasingly rigorous purification protocols. Our
results demonstrate that significant levels of residual palladium
can remain in isolated reaction products following chromatographic
purification, and only by using a subsequent metal scavenging step
are they reliably reduced to a low level. Finally, we provide a set
of simple guidelines that should minimize the potential for issues
associated with residual palladium in reaction products.
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Affiliation(s)
- Maria Chatzopoulou
- Department of Chemistry, Chemistry Research Laboratory, University of Oxford, Oxford OX1 3TA, United Kingdom
| | - Katrina S. Madden
- Department of Chemistry, Chemistry Research Laboratory, University of Oxford, Oxford OX1 3TA, United Kingdom
| | - Liam J. Bromhead
- Department of Chemistry, Chemistry Research Laboratory, University of Oxford, Oxford OX1 3TA, United Kingdom
| | - Christopher Greaves
- Department of Pharmacology, University of Oxford, Mansfield Road, Oxford OX1 3PQ, United Kingdom
| | - Thomas J. Cogswell
- Department of Pharmacology, University of Oxford, Mansfield Road, Oxford OX1 3PQ, United Kingdom
| | - Solange Da Silva Pinto
- Department of Pharmacology, University of Oxford, Mansfield Road, Oxford OX1 3PQ, United Kingdom
| | - Sébastien R. G. Galan
- Department of Chemistry, Chemistry Research Laboratory, University of Oxford, Oxford OX1 3TA, United Kingdom
| | - Irene Georgiou
- Department of Pharmacology, University of Oxford, Mansfield Road, Oxford OX1 3PQ, United Kingdom
| | - Matthew S. Kennedy
- Department of Pharmacology, University of Oxford, Mansfield Road, Oxford OX1 3PQ, United Kingdom
| | - Alice Kennett
- Department of Chemistry, Chemistry Research Laboratory, University of Oxford, Oxford OX1 3TA, United Kingdom
| | - Geraint Apps
- CEMAS, Imperial House, Oaklands Business Centre, Oaklands Park,
Wokingham, Berkshire RG41 2FD, United Kingdom
| | - Angela J. Russell
- Department of Chemistry, Chemistry Research Laboratory, University of Oxford, Oxford OX1 3TA, United Kingdom
- Department of Pharmacology, University of Oxford, Mansfield Road, Oxford OX1 3PQ, United Kingdom
| | - Graham M. Wynne
- Department of Chemistry, Chemistry Research Laboratory, University of Oxford, Oxford OX1 3TA, United Kingdom
- OxStem Limited, Midland House, West Way, Botley, Oxford OX2 0PH, United Kingdom
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Shrimp JH, Janiszewski J, Chen CZ, Xu M, Wilson KM, Kales SC, Sanderson PE, Shinn P, Itkin Z, Guo H, Shen M, Klumpp-thomas C, Michael SG, Zheng W, Simeonov A, Hall MD. A Suite of TMPRSS2 Assays for Screening Drug Repurposing Candidates as Potential Treatments of COVID-19.. [PMID: 35169799 PMCID: PMC8845423 DOI: 10.1101/2022.02.04.479134] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/25/2022]
Abstract
SARS-CoV-2 is the causative viral pathogen driving the COVID-19 pandemic that prompted an immediate global response to the development of vaccines and antiviral therapeutics. For antiviral therapeutics, drug repurposing allowed for rapid movement of existing clinical candidates and therapies into human clinical trials to be tested as COVID-19 therapies. One effective antiviral treatment strategy used early in symptom onset is to prevent viral entry. SARS-CoV-2 enters ACE2-expressing cells when the receptor-binding domain of the spike protein on the surface of SARS-CoV-2 binds to ACE2 followed by cleavage at two cut sites on the spike protein. TMPRSS2 has a protease domain capable of cleaving the two cut sites; therefore, a molecule capable of inhibiting the protease activity of TMPRSS2 could be a valuable antiviral therapy. Initially, we used a fluorogenic high-throughput screening assay for the biochemical screening of 6030 compounds in NCATS annotated libraries. Then, we developed an orthogonal biochemical assay that uses mass spectrometry detection of product formation to ensure that hits from the primary screen are not assay artifacts from the fluorescent detection of product formation. Finally, we assessed the hits from the biochemical screening in a cell-based SARS-CoV-2 pseudotyped particle entry assay. Of the six molecules advanced for further studies, two are approved drugs in Japan (camostat and nafamostat), two have entered clinical trials (PCI-27483 and otamixaban), while the other two molecules are peptidomimetic inhibitors of TMPRSS2 taken from the literature that have not advanced into clinical trials (compounds 92 and 114). This work demonstrates a suite of assays for the discovery and development of new inhibitors of TMPRSS2.
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Hernández González JE, Alberca LN, Masforrol González Y, Reyes Acosta O, Talevi A, Salas-Sarduy E. Tetracycline Derivatives Inhibit Plasmodial Cysteine Protease Falcipain-2 through Binding to a Distal Allosteric Site. J Chem Inf Model 2021; 62:159-175. [PMID: 34962803 DOI: 10.1021/acs.jcim.1c01189] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/28/2022]
Abstract
Allosteric inhibitors regulate enzyme activity from remote and usually specific pockets. As they promise an avenue for less toxic and safer drugs, the identification and characterization of allosteric inhibitors has gained great academic and biomedical interest in recent years. Research on falcipain-2 (FP-2), the major papain-like cysteine hemoglobinase of Plasmodium falciparum, might benefit from this strategy to overcome the low selectivity against human cathepsins shown by active site-directed inhibitors. Encouraged by our previous finding that methacycline inhibits FP-2 noncompetitively, here we assessed other five tetracycline derivatives against this target and characterized their inhibition mechanism. As previously shown for methacycline, tetracycline derivatives inhibited FP-2 in a noncompetitive fashion, with Ki values ranging from 121 to 190 μM. A possible binding to the S' side of the FP-2 active site, similar to that described by X-ray crystallography (PDB: 6SSZ) for the noncompetitive inhibitor E-chalcone 48 (EC48), was experimentally discarded by kinetic analysis using a large peptidyl substrate spanning the whole active site. By combining lengthy molecular dynamics (MD) simulations that allowed methacycline to diffuse from solution to different FP-2 surface regions and free energy calculations, we predicted the most likely binding mode of the ligand. Of note, the proposed binding pose explains the low differences in Ki values observed for the tested tetracycline derivatives and the calculated binding free energies match the experimental values. Overall, this study has implications for the design of novel allosteric inhibitors against FP-2 and sets the basis for further optimization of the tetracycline scaffold to produce more potent and selective inhibitors.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jorge Enrique Hernández González
- Departamento de Física, Instituto de Biociências, Letras e Ciências Exatas, Universidade Estadual Paulista Júlio de Mesquita Filho, Rua Cristóvão Colombo, 2265, Jardim Nazareth, São José do Rio Preto, São Paulo CEP 15054-000, Brazil
| | - Lucas N Alberca
- Laboratory of Bioactive Compounds Research and Development (LIDeB), Department of Biological Sciences, Exact Sciences College, Universidad Nacional de La Plata, La Plata B1900ADU, Argentina
| | | | - Osvaldo Reyes Acosta
- Chemistry and Physics Department, Center for Genetic Engineering and Biotechnology, Havana 10600, Cuba
| | - Alan Talevi
- Laboratory of Bioactive Compounds Research and Development (LIDeB), Department of Biological Sciences, Exact Sciences College, Universidad Nacional de La Plata, La Plata B1900ADU, Argentina
| | - Emir Salas-Sarduy
- Instituto de Investigaciones Biotecnológicas "Dr. Rodolfo Ugalde"─Universidad Nacional de San Martín─CONICET, San Martín B1650HMP, Buenos Aires, Argentina
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O'Donnell HR, Tummino TA, Bardine C, Craik CS, Shoichet BK. Colloidal Aggregators in Biochemical SARS-CoV-2 Repurposing Screens. J Med Chem 2021; 64:17530-17539. [PMID: 34812616 DOI: 10.1021/acs.jmedchem.1c01547] [Citation(s) in RCA: 19] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/11/2022]
Abstract
To fight COVID-19, much effort has been directed toward in vitro drug repurposing. Here, we investigate the impact of colloidal aggregation, a common screening artifact, in these repurposing campaigns. We tested 56 drugs reported as active in biochemical assays for aggregation by dynamic light scattering and by detergent-based enzyme counter screening; 19 formed colloids at concentrations similar to their literature IC50's, and another 14 were problematic. From a common repurposing library, we further selected another 15 drugs that had physical properties resembling known aggregators, finding that six aggregated at micromolar concentrations. This study suggests not only that many of the drugs repurposed for SARS-CoV-2 in biochemical assays are artifacts but that, more generally, at screening-relevant concentrations, even drugs can act artifactually via colloidal aggregation. Rapid detection of these artifacts will allow the community to focus on those molecules that genuinely have potential for treating COVID-19.
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Affiliation(s)
- Henry R O'Donnell
- Department of Pharmaceutical Chemistry, University of California San Francisco (UCSF), San Francisco, California 94158-2550, United States
| | - Tia A Tummino
- Department of Pharmaceutical Chemistry, University of California San Francisco (UCSF), San Francisco, California 94158-2550, United States.,Graduate Program in Pharmaceutical Sciences and Pharmacogenomics, UCSF, San Francisco, California 94158-2550, United States.,QBI COVID-19 Research Group (QCRG), San Francisco, California 94158-2550, United States
| | - Conner Bardine
- Graduate Program in Chemistry & Chemical Biology, UCSF, San Francisco, California 94158-2550, United States
| | - Charles S Craik
- Department of Pharmaceutical Chemistry, University of California San Francisco (UCSF), San Francisco, California 94158-2550, United States.,QBI COVID-19 Research Group (QCRG), San Francisco, California 94158-2550, United States
| | - Brian K Shoichet
- Department of Pharmaceutical Chemistry, University of California San Francisco (UCSF), San Francisco, California 94158-2550, United States.,QBI COVID-19 Research Group (QCRG), San Francisco, California 94158-2550, United States
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Sun J, Zhong H, Wang K, Li N, Chen L. Gains from no real PAINS: Where 'Fair Trial Strategy' stands in the development of multi-target ligands. Acta Pharm Sin B 2021; 11:3417-3432. [PMID: 34900527 PMCID: PMC8642439 DOI: 10.1016/j.apsb.2021.02.023] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/24/2020] [Revised: 02/15/2021] [Accepted: 02/25/2021] [Indexed: 12/26/2022] Open
Abstract
Compounds that selectively modulate multiple targets can provide clinical benefits and are an alternative to traditional highly selective agents for unique targets. High-throughput screening (HTS) for multitarget-directed ligands (MTDLs) using approved drugs, and fragment-based drug design has become a regular strategy to achieve an ideal multitarget combination. However, the unexpected presence of pan-assay interference compounds (PAINS) suspects in the development of MTDLs frequently results in nonspecific interactions or other undesirable effects leading to artefacts or false-positive data of biological assays. Publicly available filters can help to identify PAINS suspects; however, these filters cannot comprehensively conclude whether these suspects are "bad" or innocent. Additionally, these in silico approaches may inappropriately label a ligand as PAINS. More than 80% of the initial hits can be identified as PAINS by the filters if appropriate biochemical tests are not used resulting in false positive data that are unacceptable for medicinal chemists in manuscript peer review and future studies. Therefore, extensive offline experiments should be used after online filtering to discriminate "bad" PAINS and avoid incorrect evaluation of good scaffolds. We suggest that the use of "Fair Trial Strategy" to identify interesting molecules in PAINS suspects to provide certain structure‒function insight in MTDL development.
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Key Words
- AD, Alzheimer disease
- ALARM NMR, a La assay to detect reactive molecules by nuclear magnetic resonance
- Biochemical experiment
- CADD, computer-aided drug design technology
- CoA, coenzyme A
- EGFR, epidermal growth factor receptor
- Fair trial strategy
- GSH, glutathione
- HER2, human epidermal growth factor receptor 2
- HTS, high-throughput screening
- In silico filtering
- LC−MS, liquid chromatography−mass spectrometry
- MTDLs, multitarget-directed ligands
- Multitarget-directed ligands
- PAINS suspects
- PAINS, pan-assay interference compounds
- QSAR, quantitative structure–activity relationship
- ROS, radicals and oxygen reactive species
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Affiliation(s)
- Jianbo Sun
- State Key Laboratory of Natural Medicines, Department of Natural Medicinal Chemistry, School of Traditional Chinese Pharmacy, China Pharmaceutical University, Nanjing 210009, China
| | - Hui Zhong
- Department of Pharmacology of Traditional Chinese Medicine, School of Traditional Chinese Pharmacy, China Pharmaceutical University, Nanjing 210009, China
| | - Kun Wang
- State Key Laboratory of Natural Medicines, Department of Natural Medicinal Chemistry, School of Traditional Chinese Pharmacy, China Pharmaceutical University, Nanjing 210009, China
| | - Na Li
- State Key Laboratory of Natural Medicines, Department of Natural Medicinal Chemistry, School of Traditional Chinese Pharmacy, China Pharmaceutical University, Nanjing 210009, China
| | - Li Chen
- State Key Laboratory of Natural Medicines, Department of Natural Medicinal Chemistry, School of Traditional Chinese Pharmacy, China Pharmaceutical University, Nanjing 210009, China
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Abstract
Structure-based docking screens of large compound libraries have become common in early drug and probe discovery. As computer efficiency has improved and compound libraries have grown, the ability to screen hundreds of millions, and even billions, of compounds has become feasible for modest-sized computer clusters. This allows the rapid and cost-effective exploration and categorization of vast chemical space into a subset enriched with potential hits for a given target. To accomplish this goal at speed, approximations are used that result in undersampling of possible configurations and inaccurate predictions of absolute binding energies. Accordingly, it is important to establish controls, as are common in other fields, to enhance the likelihood of success in spite of these challenges. Here we outline best practices and control docking calculations that help evaluate docking parameters for a given target prior to undertaking a large-scale prospective screen, with exemplification in one particular target, the melatonin receptor, where following this procedure led to direct docking hits with activities in the subnanomolar range. Additional controls are suggested to ensure specific activity for experimentally validated hit compounds. These guidelines should be useful regardless of the docking software used. Docking software described in the outlined protocol (DOCK3.7) is made freely available for academic research to explore new hits for a range of targets.
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Gunaratna MJ, Hao B, Zhang M, Nakagomi M, Ito A, Iwamoto T, Hua DH. SYNTHESIS OF PROBE MOLECULES, 6-(DIMETHYLAMINO)-2-PHENYLISOINDOLIN-1-ONES, FOR MECHANISTIC STUDIES OF FIREFLY LUCIFERASE INHIBITION. HETEROCYCLES 2021; 103:231-248. [PMID: 34566248 DOI: 10.3987/com-20-s(k)1] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/19/2022]
Abstract
Firefly luciferase is used in high-throughput screening based on the detection of chemiluminescence. It catalyzes an esterification reaction of luciferin with adenosine 5'-triphosphate (ATP) followed by decarbonylation with oxygen and concomitance of light. Previously, we reported that firefly luciferase also possesses acyl-CoA synthetase activity and catalyzes an aromatic carboxylic acid group of F-53, using ATP, Mg2+ and coenzyme A (CoA), to produce F-53 covalently attached to active-site lysine-529 residue of firefly luciferase through the formation of an amide group. The amidation of lysine-529 resulted in a deactivation of luciferase. In order to probe firefly luciferase inhibition's mechanism, we synthesized two probe molecules 1 and 2, mimicking F-53. Molecule 1 contains an azido-appended side chain in the aromatic ring of F-53, while 2 possesses an azido and a carboxylic acid group appended side chains. Both synthetic schemes are readily amenable to large-scale syntheses. Molecule 1 was made from 2-allylaniline, which was derived from a thermal-induced aromatic-Claisen rearrangement of N-allylaniline. The azido-appended side chain of 2 was installed from a Horner-Wadsworth-Emmons reaction and the carboxylic acid side chain from a Sonogashira reaction.
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Affiliation(s)
- Medha J Gunaratna
- Department of Chemistry, 1212 Mid Campus Drive N., Kansas State University, Manhattan, KS 66506, U.S.A
| | - Bo Hao
- Department of Chemistry, 1212 Mid Campus Drive N., Kansas State University, Manhattan, KS 66506, U.S.A
| | - Man Zhang
- Department of Chemistry, 1212 Mid Campus Drive N., Kansas State University, Manhattan, KS 66506, U.S.A
| | - Madoka Nakagomi
- Research Foundation ITSUU Laboratory, C1232 Kanagawa Science Park R&D Building, 3-2-1 Sakado, Takatsu-ku, Kawasaki, Kanagawa, 213-0012, Japan
| | - Ai Ito
- Showa Pharmaceutical University, 3-3165 Higashi-Tamagawagakuen, Machida, Tokyo, 194-8543, Japan
| | - Takeo Iwamoto
- Core Research Facilities, The Jikei University School of Medicine, Tokyo, 105-8461, Japan
| | - Duy H Hua
- Department of Chemistry, 1212 Mid Campus Drive N., Kansas State University, Manhattan, KS 66506, U.S.A
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40
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Oâ Donnell HR, Tummino TA, Bardine C, Craik CS, Shoichet BK. Colloidal aggregators in biochemical SARS-CoV-2 repurposing screens. BIORXIV : THE PREPRINT SERVER FOR BIOLOGY 2021. [PMID: 34494023 DOI: 10.1101/2021.08.31.458413] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/25/2022]
Abstract
To fight the SARS-CoV-2 pandemic, much effort has been directed toward drug repurposing, testing investigational and approved drugs against several viral or human proteins in vitro . Here we investigate the impact of colloidal aggregation, a common artifact in early drug discovery, in these repurposing screens. We selected 56 drugs reported to be active in biochemical assays and tested them for aggregation by both dynamic light scattering and by enzyme counter screening with and without detergent; seventeen of these drugs formed colloids at concentrations similar to their literature reported IC 50 s. To investigate the occurrence of colloidal aggregators more generally in repurposing libraries, we further selected 15 drugs that had physical properties resembling known aggregators from a common repurposing library, and found that 6 of these aggregated at micromolar concentrations. An attraction of repurposing is that drugs active on one target are considered de-risked on another. This study suggests not only that many of the drugs repurposed for SARS-CoV-2 in biochemical assays are artifacts, but that, more generally, when screened at relevant concentrations, drugs can act artifactually via colloidal aggregation. Understanding the role of aggregation, and detecting its effects rapidly, will allow the community to focus on those drugs and leads that genuinely have potential for treating COVID-19. Abstract Figure
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41
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Hanisak J, Soriano A, Adam GC, Basso A, Bauman D, Bell D, Frank E, O’Donnell G, Tawa P, Verras A, Yu Y, Zhang L, Seganish WM. Discovery of the First Non-cGMP Mimetic Small Molecule Activators of cGMP-Dependent Protein Kinase 1 α (PKG1α). ACS Med Chem Lett 2021; 12:1275-1282. [PMID: 34413956 DOI: 10.1021/acsmedchemlett.1c00264] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/03/2021] [Accepted: 07/08/2021] [Indexed: 12/21/2022] Open
Abstract
PKG1α is a central node in cGMP signaling. Current therapeutics that look to activate this pathway rely on elevation of cGMP levels and subsequent activation of PKG1α. Direct activation of PKG1α could potentially drive additional efficacy without associated side effects of blanket cGMP elevation. We undertook a high-throughput screen to identify novel activators. After triaging through numerous false positive hits, attributed to compound mediated oxidation and activation of PKG1α, a piperidine series of compounds was validated. The hit 1 was a weak activator with EC50 = 47 μM. The activity could be improved to single digit micromolar, as seen in compounds 21 and 25 (7.0 and 3.7 μM, respectively). Several compounds were tested in a pVASP cell-based assay, and for compounds with moderate permeability, good agreement was observed between the biochemical and functional assays. These compounds will function as efficient tools to further interrogate PKG1α biology.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jennifer Hanisak
- Discovery Chemistry, Merck & Co., Inc., Kenilworth, New Jersey 07033, United States
| | - Aileen Soriano
- Mass Spectrometry and Biophysics, Computational and Structural Chemistry, Merck & Co., Inc., Kenilworth, New Jersey 07033, United States
| | - Gregory C. Adam
- Quantitative Biosciences, Merck & Co., Inc, West Point, Pennsylvania 19486, United States
| | - Andrea Basso
- Mass Spectrometry and Biophysics, Computational and Structural Chemistry, Merck & Co., Inc., Kenilworth, New Jersey 07033, United States
| | - David Bauman
- Discovery Biology, Merck & Co., Inc., Kenilworth, New Jersey 07033, United States
| | - David Bell
- Mass Spectrometry and Biophysics, Computational and Structural Chemistry, Merck & Co., Inc., Kenilworth, New Jersey 07033, United States
| | - Emily Frank
- Mass Spectrometry and Biophysics, Computational and Structural Chemistry, Merck & Co., Inc., Kenilworth, New Jersey 07033, United States
| | - Gregory O’Donnell
- Quantitative Biosciences, Merck & Co., Inc, West Point, Pennsylvania 19486, United States
| | - Paul Tawa
- Mass Spectrometry and Biophysics, Computational and Structural Chemistry, Merck & Co., Inc., Kenilworth, New Jersey 07033, United States
| | - Andreas Verras
- Computational and Structural Chemistry, Merck & Co., Inc., Kenilworth, New Jersey 07033, United States
| | - Yang Yu
- Discovery Chemistry, Merck & Co., Inc., Kenilworth, New Jersey 07033, United States
| | - Lei Zhang
- Biologics Analytical Research and Development, Merck & Co., Inc., Kenilworth, New Jersey, 07033 United States
| | - W. Michael Seganish
- Discovery Chemistry, Merck & Co., Inc., South San Francisco, California 94080, United States
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Kirstgen M, Müller SF, Lowjaga KAAT, Goldmann N, Lehmann F, Alakurtti S, Yli-Kauhaluoma J, Baringhaus KH, Krieg R, Glebe D, Geyer J. Identification of Novel HBV/HDV Entry Inhibitors by Pharmacophore- and QSAR-Guided Virtual Screening. Viruses 2021; 13:v13081489. [PMID: 34452354 PMCID: PMC8402622 DOI: 10.3390/v13081489] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/24/2021] [Revised: 07/19/2021] [Accepted: 07/24/2021] [Indexed: 12/17/2022] Open
Abstract
The hepatic bile acid transporter Na+/taurocholate co-transporting polypeptide (NTCP) was identified in 2012 as the high-affinity hepatic receptor for the hepatitis B and D viruses (HBV/HDV). Since then, this carrier has emerged as promising drug target for HBV/HDV virus entry inhibitors, but the synthetic peptide Hepcludex® of high molecular weight is the only approved HDV entry inhibitor so far. The present study aimed to identify small molecules as novel NTCP inhibitors with anti-viral activity. A ligand-based bioinformatic approach was used to generate and validate appropriate pharmacophore and QSAR (quantitative structure–activity relationship) models. Half-maximal inhibitory concentrations (IC50) for binding inhibition of the HBV/HDV-derived preS1 peptide (as surrogate parameter for virus binding to NTCP) were determined in NTCP-expressing HEK293 cells for 150 compounds of different chemical classes. IC50 values ranged from 2 µM up to >1000 µM. The generated pharmacophore and QSAR models were used for virtual screening of drug-like chemicals from the ZINC15 database (~11 million compounds). The 20 best-performing compounds were then experimentally tested for preS1-peptide binding inhibition in NTCP-HEK293 cells. Among them, four compounds were active and revealed experimental IC50 values for preS1-peptide binding inhibition of 9, 19, 20, and 35 µM, which were comparable to the QSAR-based predictions. All these compounds also significantly inhibited in vitro HDV infection of NTCP-HepG2 cells, without showing any cytotoxicity. The best-performing compound in all assays was ZINC000253533654. In conclusion, the present study demonstrates that virtual compound screening based on NTCP-specific pharmacophore and QSAR models can predict novel active hit compounds for the development of HBV/HDV entry inhibitors.
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Affiliation(s)
- Michael Kirstgen
- Institute of Pharmacology and Toxicology, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, Justus Liebig University Giessen, 35392 Giessen, Germany; (M.K.); (S.F.M.); (K.A.A.T.L.)
| | - Simon Franz Müller
- Institute of Pharmacology and Toxicology, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, Justus Liebig University Giessen, 35392 Giessen, Germany; (M.K.); (S.F.M.); (K.A.A.T.L.)
| | - Kira Alessandra Alicia Theresa Lowjaga
- Institute of Pharmacology and Toxicology, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, Justus Liebig University Giessen, 35392 Giessen, Germany; (M.K.); (S.F.M.); (K.A.A.T.L.)
| | - Nora Goldmann
- Institute of Medical Virology, National Reference Center for Hepatitis B Viruses and Hepatitis D Viruses, Justus Liebig University Giessen, 35392 Giessen, Germany; (N.G.); (F.L.); (D.G.)
| | - Felix Lehmann
- Institute of Medical Virology, National Reference Center for Hepatitis B Viruses and Hepatitis D Viruses, Justus Liebig University Giessen, 35392 Giessen, Germany; (N.G.); (F.L.); (D.G.)
| | - Sami Alakurtti
- Drug Research Program, Division of Pharmaceutical Chemistry and Technology, Faculty of Pharmacy, University of Helsinki, Viikinkaari 5 E, FI-00014 Helsinki, Finland; (S.A.); (J.Y.-K.)
- VTT Technical Research Centre of Finland, Biologinkuja 7, FI-02044 Espoo, Finland
| | - Jari Yli-Kauhaluoma
- Drug Research Program, Division of Pharmaceutical Chemistry and Technology, Faculty of Pharmacy, University of Helsinki, Viikinkaari 5 E, FI-00014 Helsinki, Finland; (S.A.); (J.Y.-K.)
| | | | - Reimar Krieg
- Institute of Anatomy II, University Hospital Jena, Teichgraben 7, 07743 Jena, Germany;
| | - Dieter Glebe
- Institute of Medical Virology, National Reference Center for Hepatitis B Viruses and Hepatitis D Viruses, Justus Liebig University Giessen, 35392 Giessen, Germany; (N.G.); (F.L.); (D.G.)
- German Center for Infection Research (DZIF), Partner Site Giessen-Marburg-Langen, 35392 Giessen, Germany
| | - Joachim Geyer
- Institute of Pharmacology and Toxicology, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, Justus Liebig University Giessen, 35392 Giessen, Germany; (M.K.); (S.F.M.); (K.A.A.T.L.)
- Correspondence: ; Tel.: +49-641-99-38404; Fax: +49-641-99-38409
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Zhang Y, He XZ, Yang H, Liu HY, An LK. Robustadial A and B from Eucalyptus globulus Labill. and their anticancer activity as selective tyrosyl-DNA phosphodiesterase 2 inhibitors. Phytother Res 2021; 35:5282-5289. [PMID: 34314073 DOI: 10.1002/ptr.7207] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/11/2021] [Revised: 05/24/2021] [Accepted: 06/08/2021] [Indexed: 11/07/2022]
Abstract
Tyrosyl-DNA phosphodiesterase 2 (TDP2) is a recently discovered DNA repair enzyme that can repair topoisomerase 2-mediated DNA damage, resulting in cancer cell resistance. In this study, two compounds, robustadial A and B, were isolated from a fraction of the ethyl acetate extract of Eucalyptus globulus Labill. fruits based on TDP2 inhibition screening. The biological experiments indicated that robustadial A and B have TDP2 inhibitory activity with EC50 values of 17 and 42 μM, respectively, but no tyrosyl-DNA phosphodiesterase 1 inhibition at 100 μM. Robustadial A showed significant synergistic effects with the anticancer drug etoposide in four human cancer cell lines, non-small cell lung cancer cell line (A549), prostate cancer cell line (DU145), breast cancer cell line (MCF-7), colorectal adenocarcinoma cell line (HCT-116), and chicken lymphoma cell line (DT40), and chicken lymphoma cell line complementation with human TDP2 (DT40 hTDP2) with combination index values ranging from 0.21 to 0.74. This work will facilitate future efforts for the development of robustadial A-based TDP2 selective inhibitors.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yu Zhang
- School of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Sun Yat-sen University, Guangzhou, China
| | - Xiao-Zhi He
- State Key Laboratory of Phytochemistry and Plant Resources in West China, Kunming Institute of Botany, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Kunming, China
| | - Hao Yang
- School of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Sun Yat-sen University, Guangzhou, China
| | - Hai-Yang Liu
- State Key Laboratory of Phytochemistry and Plant Resources in West China, Kunming Institute of Botany, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Kunming, China
| | - Lin-Kun An
- School of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Sun Yat-sen University, Guangzhou, China.,Guangdong Provincial Key Laboratory of New Drug Design and Evaluation, Guangzhou, China
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Rathod B, Chak S, Patel S, Shard A. Tumor pyruvate kinase M2 modulators: a comprehensive account of activators and inhibitors as anticancer agents. RSC Med Chem 2021; 12:1121-1141. [PMID: 34355179 PMCID: PMC8292966 DOI: 10.1039/d1md00045d] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/12/2021] [Accepted: 03/25/2021] [Indexed: 12/16/2022] Open
Abstract
Pyruvate kinase M2 (PKM2) catalyzes the conversion of phosphoenolpyruvate (PEP) to pyruvate. It plays a central role in the metabolic reprogramming of cancer cells and is expressed in most human tumors. It is essential in indiscriminate proliferation, survival, and tackling apoptosis in cancer cells. This positions PKM2 as a hot target in cancer therapy. Despite its well-known structure and several reported modulators targeting PKM2 as activators or inhibitors, a comprehensive review focusing on such modulators is lacking. Herein we summarize modulators of PKM2, the assays used to detect their potential, the preferable tense (T) and relaxed (R) states in which the enzyme resides, lacunae in existing modulators, and several strategies that may lead to effective anticancer drug development targeting PKM2.
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Affiliation(s)
- Bhagyashri Rathod
- Department of Medicinal Chemistry, National Institute of Pharmaceutical Education and Research Ahmedabad Opposite Air Force Station Gandhinagar Gujarat 382355 India
| | - Shivam Chak
- Department of Medicinal Chemistry, National Institute of Pharmaceutical Education and Research Ahmedabad Opposite Air Force Station Gandhinagar Gujarat 382355 India
| | - Sagarkumar Patel
- Department of Medicinal Chemistry, National Institute of Pharmaceutical Education and Research Ahmedabad Opposite Air Force Station Gandhinagar Gujarat 382355 India
| | - Amit Shard
- Department of Medicinal Chemistry, National Institute of Pharmaceutical Education and Research Ahmedabad Opposite Air Force Station Gandhinagar Gujarat 382355 India
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45
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Identifying SARS-CoV-2 antiviral compounds by screening for small molecule inhibitors of nsp12/7/8 RNA-dependent RNA polymerase. Biochem J 2021; 478:2425-2443. [PMID: 34198323 PMCID: PMC8286815 DOI: 10.1042/bcj20210200] [Citation(s) in RCA: 20] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/23/2021] [Revised: 05/05/2021] [Accepted: 05/07/2021] [Indexed: 02/07/2023]
Abstract
The coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) global pandemic has turned into the largest public health and economic crisis in recent history impacting virtually all sectors of society. There is a need for effective therapeutics to battle the ongoing pandemic. Repurposing existing drugs with known pharmacological safety profiles is a fast and cost-effective approach to identify novel treatments. The COVID-19 etiologic agent is the severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2 (SARS-CoV-2), a single-stranded positive-sense RNA virus. Coronaviruses rely on the enzymatic activity of the replication–transcription complex (RTC) to multiply inside host cells. The RTC core catalytic component is the RNA-dependent RNA polymerase (RdRp) holoenzyme. The RdRp is one of the key druggable targets for CoVs due to its essential role in viral replication, high degree of sequence and structural conservation and the lack of homologues in human cells. Here, we have expressed, purified and biochemically characterised active SARS-CoV-2 RdRp complexes. We developed a novel fluorescence resonance energy transfer-based strand displacement assay for monitoring SARS-CoV-2 RdRp activity suitable for a high-throughput format. As part of a larger research project to identify inhibitors for all the enzymatic activities encoded by SARS-CoV-2, we used this assay to screen a custom chemical library of over 5000 approved and investigational compounds for novel SARS-CoV-2 RdRp inhibitors. We identified three novel compounds (GSK-650394, C646 and BH3I-1) and confirmed suramin and suramin-like compounds as in vitro SARS-CoV-2 RdRp activity inhibitors. We also characterised the antiviral efficacy of these drugs in cell-based assays that we developed to monitor SARS-CoV-2 growth.
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46
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Coussens NP, Auld DS, Thielman JR, Wagner BK, Dahlin JL. Addressing Compound Reactivity and Aggregation Assay Interferences: Case Studies of Biochemical High-Throughput Screening Campaigns Benefiting from the National Institutes of Health Assay Guidance Manual Guidelines. SLAS DISCOVERY 2021; 26:1280-1290. [PMID: 34218710 DOI: 10.1177/24725552211026239] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/17/2022]
Abstract
Compound-dependent assay interferences represent a continued burden in drug and chemical probe discovery. The open-source National Institutes of Health/National Center for Advancing Translational Sciences (NIH/NCATS) Assay Guidance Manual (AGM) established an "Assay Artifacts and Interferences" section to address different sources of artifacts and interferences in biological assays. In addition to the frequent introduction of new chapters in this important topic area, older chapters are periodically updated by experts from academia, industry, and government to include new technologies and practices. Section chapters describe many best practices for mitigating and identifying compound-dependent assay interferences. Using two previously reported biochemical high-throughput screening campaigns for small-molecule inhibitors of the epigenetic targets Rtt109 and NSD2, the authors review best practices and direct readers to high-yield resources in the AGM and elsewhere for the mitigation and identification of compound-dependent reactivity and aggregation assay interferences.
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Affiliation(s)
- Nathan P Coussens
- Molecular Pharmacology Laboratories, Division of Cancer Treatment and Diagnosis Laboratory Support, Applied/Developmental Research Directorate, Leidos Biomedical Research, Inc., Frederick National Laboratory for Cancer Research, Frederick, MD, USA
| | - Douglas S Auld
- Novartis Institutes for Biomedical Research, Cambridge, MA, USA
| | - Jonathan R Thielman
- Chemical Biology and Therapeutics Science Program, Broad Institute, Cambridge, MA, USA
| | - Bridget K Wagner
- Chemical Biology and Therapeutics Science Program, Broad Institute, Cambridge, MA, USA
| | - Jayme L Dahlin
- National Center for Advancing Translational Sciences, National Institutes of Health, Rockville, MD, USA
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47
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Greenhough LA, Clarke G, Phillipou AN, Mazani F, Karamshi B, Rowe S, Rowland P, Messenger C, Haslam CP, Bingham RP, Craggs PD. Reducing False Positives through the Application of Fluorescence Lifetime Technology: A Comparative Study Using TYK2 Kinase as a Model System. SLAS DISCOVERY : ADVANCING LIFE SCIENCES R & D 2021; 26:663-675. [PMID: 33783261 DOI: 10.1177/24725552211002472] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 06/12/2023]
Abstract
The predominant assay detection methodologies used for enzyme inhibitor identification during early-stage drug discovery are fluorescence-based. Each fluorophore has a characteristic fluorescence decay, known as the fluorescence lifetime, that occurs throughout a nanosecond-to-millisecond timescale. The measurement of fluorescence lifetime as a reporter for biological activity is less common than fluorescence intensity, even though the latter has numerous issues that can lead to false-positive readouts. The confirmation of hit compounds as true inhibitors requires additional assays, cost, and time to progress from hit identification to lead drug-candidate optimization. To explore whether the use of fluorescence lifetime technology (FLT) can offer comparable benefits to label-free-based approaches such as RapidFire mass spectroscopy (RF-MS) and a superior readout compared to time-resolved fluorescence resonance energy transfer (TR-FRET), three equivalent assays were developed against the clinically validated tyrosine kinase 2 (TYK2) and screened against annotated compound sets. FLT provided a marked decrease in the number of false-positive hits when compared to TR-FRET. Further cellular screening confirmed that a number of potential inhibitors directly interacted with TYK2 and inhibited the downstream phosphorylation of the signal transducer and activator of transcription 4 protein (STAT4).
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Affiliation(s)
- Luke A Greenhough
- Medicine Design, Medicinal Science and Technology, GlaxoSmithKline, Stevenage, Hertfordshire, UK
| | - Gabriella Clarke
- Medicine Design, Medicinal Science and Technology, GlaxoSmithKline, Stevenage, Hertfordshire, UK
| | - Alexander N Phillipou
- Medicine Design, Medicinal Science and Technology, GlaxoSmithKline, Stevenage, Hertfordshire, UK
| | - Faith Mazani
- Medicine Design, Medicinal Science and Technology, GlaxoSmithKline, Stevenage, Hertfordshire, UK
| | - Bhumika Karamshi
- Medicine Design, Medicinal Science and Technology, GlaxoSmithKline, Stevenage, Hertfordshire, UK
| | - Sam Rowe
- Medicine Design, Medicinal Science and Technology, GlaxoSmithKline, Stevenage, Hertfordshire, UK
| | - Paul Rowland
- Protein, Cellular and Structural Sciences, Medicinal Science and Technology, GlaxoSmithKline, Stevenage, Hertfordshire, UK
| | - Cassie Messenger
- Medicine Design, Medicinal Science and Technology, GlaxoSmithKline, Stevenage, Hertfordshire, UK
| | - Carl P Haslam
- Medicine Design, Medicinal Science and Technology, GlaxoSmithKline, Stevenage, Hertfordshire, UK
| | - Ryan P Bingham
- Medicine Design, Medicinal Science and Technology, GlaxoSmithKline, Stevenage, Hertfordshire, UK
| | - Peter D Craggs
- Medicine Design, Medicinal Science and Technology, GlaxoSmithKline, Stevenage, Hertfordshire, UK
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48
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Alvarez-Gonzalez J, Yasgar A, Maul RW, Rieffer AE, Crawford DJ, Salamango DJ, Dorjsuren D, Zakharov AV, Jansen DJ, Rai G, Marugan J, Simeonov A, Harris RS, Kohli RM, Gearhart PJ. Small Molecule Inhibitors of Activation-Induced Deaminase Decrease Class Switch Recombination in B Cells. ACS Pharmacol Transl Sci 2021; 4:1214-1226. [PMID: 34151211 DOI: 10.1021/acsptsci.1c00064] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/26/2021] [Indexed: 11/30/2022]
Abstract
Activation-induced deaminase (AID) not only mutates DNA within the immunoglobulin loci to generate antibody diversity, but it also promotes development of B cell lymphomas. To tame this mutagen, we performed a quantitative high-throughput screen of over 90 000 compounds to see if AID activity could be mitigated. The enzymatic activity was assessed in biochemical assays to detect cytosine deamination and in cellular assays to measure class switch recombination. Three compounds showed promise via inhibition of switching in a transformed B cell line and in murine splenic B cells. These compounds have similar chemical structures, which suggests a shared mechanism of action. Importantly, the inhibitors blocked AID, but not a related cytosine DNA deaminase, APOBEC3B. We further determined that AID was continually expressed for several days after B cell activation to induce switching. This first report of small molecules that inhibit AID can be used to gain regulatory control over base editors.
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Affiliation(s)
- Juan Alvarez-Gonzalez
- Laboratory of Molecular Biology and Immunology, National Institute on Aging, National Institutes of Health, Baltimore, Maryland 21224, United States
| | - Adam Yasgar
- National Center for Advancing Translational Sciences, National Institutes of Health, Rockville, Maryland 20816, United States
| | - Robert W Maul
- Laboratory of Molecular Biology and Immunology, National Institute on Aging, National Institutes of Health, Baltimore, Maryland 21224, United States
| | - Amanda E Rieffer
- Department of Biochemistry, Molecular Biology and Biophysics, University of Minnesota, Minneapolis, Minnesota 55455, United States.,Masonic Cancer Center, University of Minnesota, Minneapolis, Minnesota 55455, United States.,Institute for Molecular Virology, University of Minnesota, Minneapolis, Minnesota 55455, United States
| | - Daniel J Crawford
- Department of Medicine, University of Pennsylvania, Philadelphia, Pennsylvania 19104, United States
| | - Daniel J Salamango
- Department of Biochemistry, Molecular Biology and Biophysics, University of Minnesota, Minneapolis, Minnesota 55455, United States.,Masonic Cancer Center, University of Minnesota, Minneapolis, Minnesota 55455, United States.,Institute for Molecular Virology, University of Minnesota, Minneapolis, Minnesota 55455, United States
| | - Dorjbal Dorjsuren
- National Center for Advancing Translational Sciences, National Institutes of Health, Rockville, Maryland 20816, United States
| | - Alexey V Zakharov
- National Center for Advancing Translational Sciences, National Institutes of Health, Rockville, Maryland 20816, United States
| | - Daniel J Jansen
- National Center for Advancing Translational Sciences, National Institutes of Health, Rockville, Maryland 20816, United States
| | - Ganesha Rai
- National Center for Advancing Translational Sciences, National Institutes of Health, Rockville, Maryland 20816, United States
| | - Juan Marugan
- National Center for Advancing Translational Sciences, National Institutes of Health, Rockville, Maryland 20816, United States
| | - Anton Simeonov
- National Center for Advancing Translational Sciences, National Institutes of Health, Rockville, Maryland 20816, United States
| | - Reuben S Harris
- Department of Biochemistry, Molecular Biology and Biophysics, University of Minnesota, Minneapolis, Minnesota 55455, United States.,Masonic Cancer Center, University of Minnesota, Minneapolis, Minnesota 55455, United States.,Institute for Molecular Virology, University of Minnesota, Minneapolis, Minnesota 55455, United States.,Howard Hughes Medical Institute, University of Minnesota, Minneapolis, Minnesota 55455, United States
| | - Rahul M Kohli
- Department of Medicine, University of Pennsylvania, Philadelphia, Pennsylvania 19104, United States
| | - Patricia J Gearhart
- Laboratory of Molecular Biology and Immunology, National Institute on Aging, National Institutes of Health, Baltimore, Maryland 21224, United States
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49
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Pu F, Radosevich AJ, Sawicki JW, Chang-Yen D, Talaty NN, Gopalakrishnan SM, Williams JD, Elsen NL. High-Throughput Label-Free Biochemical Assays Using Infrared Matrix-Assisted Desorption Electrospray Ionization Mass Spectrometry. Anal Chem 2021; 93:6792-6800. [PMID: 33885291 DOI: 10.1021/acs.analchem.1c00737] [Citation(s) in RCA: 16] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/02/2023]
Abstract
Mass spectrometry (MS) can provide high sensitivity and specificity for biochemical assays without the requirement of labels, eliminating the risk of assay interference. However, its use had been limited to lower-throughput assays due to the need for chromatography to overcome ion suppression from the sample matrix. Direct analysis without chromatography has the potential for high throughput if sensitivity is sufficient despite the presence of a matrix. Here, we report and demonstrate a novel direct analysis high-throughput MS system based on infrared matrix-assisted desorption electrospray ionization (IR-MALDESI) that has a potential acquisition rate of 33 spectra/s. We show the development of biochemical assays in standard buffers for wild-type isocitrate dehydrogenase 1 (IDH1), diacylglycerol kinase zeta (DGKζ), and p300 histone acetyltransferase (P300) to demonstrate the suitability of this system for a broad range of high-throughput lead discovery assays. A proof-of-concept pilot screen of ∼3k compounds is also shown for IDH1 and compared to a previously reported fluorescence-based assay. We were able to obtain reliable data at a speed amenable for high-throughput screening of large-scale compound libraries.
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Affiliation(s)
- Fan Pu
- Drug Discovery Science and Technology, AbbVie Inc., North Chicago, Illinois 60064, United States
| | - Andrew J Radosevich
- Drug Discovery Science and Technology, AbbVie Inc., North Chicago, Illinois 60064, United States
| | - James W Sawicki
- Drug Discovery Science and Technology, AbbVie Inc., North Chicago, Illinois 60064, United States
| | - David Chang-Yen
- Drug Discovery Science and Technology, AbbVie Inc., North Chicago, Illinois 60064, United States
| | - Nari N Talaty
- Drug Discovery Science and Technology, AbbVie Inc., North Chicago, Illinois 60064, United States
| | - Sujatha M Gopalakrishnan
- Drug Discovery Science and Technology, AbbVie Inc., North Chicago, Illinois 60064, United States
| | - Jon D Williams
- Drug Discovery Science and Technology, AbbVie Inc., North Chicago, Illinois 60064, United States
| | - Nathaniel L Elsen
- Drug Discovery Science and Technology, AbbVie Inc., North Chicago, Illinois 60064, United States
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50
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Hennes E, Lampe P, Dötsch L, Bruning N, Pulvermacher L, Sievers S, Ziegler S, Waldmann H. Cell‐Based Identification of New IDO1 Modulator Chemotypes. Angew Chem Int Ed Engl 2021. [DOI: 10.1002/ange.202016004] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/11/2022]
Affiliation(s)
- Elisabeth Hennes
- Department of Chemical Biology Max Planck Institute of Molecular Physiology Otto-Hahn-Str. 11 44227 Dortmund Germany
- Department of Chemical Biology Technical University of Dortmund Otto-Hahn-Strasse 6 44227 Dortmund Germany
| | - Philipp Lampe
- Compound Management and Screening Center Otto-Hahn-Str.11 44227 Dortmund Germany
| | - Lara Dötsch
- Department of Chemical Biology Max Planck Institute of Molecular Physiology Otto-Hahn-Str. 11 44227 Dortmund Germany
- Department of Chemical Biology Technical University of Dortmund Otto-Hahn-Strasse 6 44227 Dortmund Germany
| | - Nora Bruning
- Department of Chemical Biology Technical University of Dortmund Otto-Hahn-Strasse 6 44227 Dortmund Germany
| | - Lisa‐Marie Pulvermacher
- Department of Chemical Biology Technical University of Dortmund Otto-Hahn-Strasse 6 44227 Dortmund Germany
| | - Sonja Sievers
- Compound Management and Screening Center Otto-Hahn-Str.11 44227 Dortmund Germany
| | - Slava Ziegler
- Department of Chemical Biology Max Planck Institute of Molecular Physiology Otto-Hahn-Str. 11 44227 Dortmund Germany
| | - Herbert Waldmann
- Department of Chemical Biology Max Planck Institute of Molecular Physiology Otto-Hahn-Str. 11 44227 Dortmund Germany
- Department of Chemical Biology Technical University of Dortmund Otto-Hahn-Strasse 6 44227 Dortmund Germany
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