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Vagaggini C, Petroni D, D'Agostino I, Poggialini F, Cavallini C, Cianciusi A, Salis A, D'Antona L, Francesconi V, Manetti F, Damonte G, Musumeci F, Menichetti L, Dreassi E, Carbone A, Schenone S. Early investigation of a novel SI306 theranostic prodrug for glioblastoma treatment. Drug Dev Res 2024; 85:e22158. [PMID: 38349262 DOI: 10.1002/ddr.22158] [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: 11/08/2023] [Revised: 12/14/2023] [Accepted: 01/22/2024] [Indexed: 02/15/2024]
Abstract
Glioblastoma multiforme (GBM) is one of the most aggressive malignancies with a high recurrence rate and poor prognosis. Theranostic, combining therapeutic and diagnostic approaches, arises as a successful strategy to improve patient outcomes through personalized medicine. Src is a non-receptor tyrosine kinase (nRTK) whose involvement in GBM has been extensively demonstrated. Our previous research highlighted the effectiveness of the pyrazolo[3,4-d]pyrimidine SI306 and its more soluble prodrug CMP1 as Src inhibitors both in in vitro and in vivo GBM models. In this scenario, we decided to develop a theranostic prodrug of SI306, ProSI-DOTA(68 Ga) 1, which was designed to target GBM cells after hydrolysis and follow-up on the disease's progression and improve the therapy's outcome. First, the corresponding nonradioactive prodrug 2 was tested to evaluate its ADME profile and biological activity. It showed good metabolic stability, no inhibition of CYP3A4, suboptimal aqueous solubility, and slight gastrointestinal and blood-brain barrier passive permeability. Compound 2 exhibited a drastic reduction of cell vitality after 72 h on two different GBM cell lines (GL261 and U87MG). Then, 2 was subjected to complexation with the radionuclide Gallium-68 to give ProSI-DOTA(68 Ga) 1. The cellular uptake of 1 was evaluated on GBM cells, highlighting a slight but significant time-dependent uptake. The data obtained from our preliminary studies reflect the physiochemical properties of 1. The use of an alternative route of administration, such as the intranasal route, could overcome the physiochemical limitations and enhance the pharmacokinetic properties of 1, paving the way for its future development.
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Affiliation(s)
- Chiara Vagaggini
- Department of Biotechnology, Chemistry, and Pharmacy, University of Siena, Siena, Italy
| | - Debora Petroni
- Institute of Clinical Physiology, Italian National Research Council (CNR), Pisa, Italy
| | - Ilaria D'Agostino
- Department of Biotechnology, Chemistry, and Pharmacy, University of Siena, Siena, Italy
| | - Federica Poggialini
- Department of Biotechnology, Chemistry, and Pharmacy, University of Siena, Siena, Italy
| | - Chiara Cavallini
- Institute of Clinical Physiology, Italian National Research Council (CNR), Pisa, Italy
| | | | - Annalisa Salis
- DIMES, Section of Biochemistry, University of Genova, Genova, Italy
| | - Lucia D'Antona
- Medical Genetics Unit, Mater Domini University Hospital, Catanzaro, Italy
- Department of Health Sciences, Magna Graecia University of Catanzaro, Catanzaro, Italy
| | | | - Fabrizio Manetti
- Department of Biotechnology, Chemistry, and Pharmacy, University of Siena, Siena, Italy
| | - Gianluca Damonte
- DIMES, Section of Biochemistry, University of Genova, Genova, Italy
| | | | - Luca Menichetti
- Institute of Clinical Physiology, Italian National Research Council (CNR), Pisa, Italy
| | - Elena Dreassi
- Department of Biotechnology, Chemistry, and Pharmacy, University of Siena, Siena, Italy
| | - Anna Carbone
- Department of Pharmacy, University of Genoa, Genoa, Italy
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2
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Huang L, Liang Y, Hou H, Tang M, Liu X, Ma YN, Liang S. Prokaryotic Expression and Affinity Purification of DDX3 Protein. Protein Pept Lett 2024; 31:236-246. [PMID: 38303525 DOI: 10.2174/0109298665285625231222075700] [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: 10/05/2023] [Revised: 12/03/2023] [Accepted: 12/08/2023] [Indexed: 02/03/2024]
Abstract
BACKGROUND DDX3 is a protein with RNA helicase activity that is involved in a variety of biological processes, and it is an important protein target for the development of broad-spectrum antiviral drugs, multiple cancers and chronic inflammation. OBJECTIVES The objective of this study is to establish a simple and efficient method to express and purify DDX3 protein in E. coli, and the recombinant DDX3 should maintain helicase activity for further tailor-made screening and biochemical function validation. METHODS DDX3 cDNA was simultaneously cloned into pET28a-TEV and pNIC28-Bsa4 vectors and transfected into E. coli BL21 (DE3) to compare one suitable prokaryotic expression system. The 6×His-tag was fused to the C-terminus of DDX3 to form a His-tagging DDX3 fusion protein for subsequent purification. Protein dissolution buffer and purification washing conditions were optimized. The His-tagged DDX3 protein would bind with the Ni-NTA agarose by chelation and collected by affinity purification. The 6×His-tag fused with N-terminal DDX3 was eliminated from DDX3 by TEV digestion. A fine purification of DDX3 was performed by gel filtration chromatography. RESULTS The recombinant plasmid pNIC28-DDX3, which contained a 6×His-tag and one TEV cleavage site at the N terminal of DDX3 sequence, was constructed for DDX3 prokaryotic expression and affinity purification based on considering the good solubility of the recombinant His-tagging DDX3, especially under 0.5 mM IPTG incubation at 18°C for 18 h to obtain more soluble DDX3 protein. Finally, the exogenous recombinant DDX3 protein was obtained with more than 95% purity by affinity purification on the Ni-NTA column and removal of miscellaneous through gel filtration chromatography. The finely-purified DDX3 still retained its ATPase activity. CONCLUSION A prokaryotic expression pNIC28-DDX3 system is constructed for efficient expression and affinity purification of bioactive DDX3 protein in E. coli BL21(DE3), which provides an important high-throughput screening and validation of drugs targeting DDX3.
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Affiliation(s)
- Lan Huang
- Department of Biotherapy, Cancer Center and State Key Laboratory of Biotherapy, West China Hospital, Sichuan University, No.17, Section 3 of Renmin South Road, Chengdu, Sichuan, 610041, P.R. China
| | - Yue Liang
- Department of Biotherapy, Cancer Center and State Key Laboratory of Biotherapy, West China Hospital, Sichuan University, No.17, Section 3 of Renmin South Road, Chengdu, Sichuan, 610041, P.R. China
| | - Huijin Hou
- Department of Biotherapy, Cancer Center and State Key Laboratory of Biotherapy, West China Hospital, Sichuan University, No.17, Section 3 of Renmin South Road, Chengdu, Sichuan, 610041, P.R. China
| | - Min Tang
- Department of Biotherapy, Cancer Center and State Key Laboratory of Biotherapy, West China Hospital, Sichuan University, No.17, Section 3 of Renmin South Road, Chengdu, Sichuan, 610041, P.R. China
| | - Xinpeng Liu
- Department of Biotherapy, Cancer Center and State Key Laboratory of Biotherapy, West China Hospital, Sichuan University, No.17, Section 3 of Renmin South Road, Chengdu, Sichuan, 610041, P.R. China
| | - Yan-Ni Ma
- Department of Biotherapy, Cancer Center and State Key Laboratory of Biotherapy, West China Hospital, Sichuan University, No.17, Section 3 of Renmin South Road, Chengdu, Sichuan, 610041, P.R. China
| | - Shufang Liang
- Department of Biotherapy, Cancer Center and State Key Laboratory of Biotherapy, West China Hospital, Sichuan University, No.17, Section 3 of Renmin South Road, Chengdu, Sichuan, 610041, P.R. China
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3
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Maresca L, Crivaro E, Migliorini F, Anichini G, Giammona A, Pepe S, Poggialini F, Vagaggini C, Giannini G, Sestini S, Borgognoni L, Lapucci A, Dreassi E, Taddei M, Manetti F, Petricci E, Stecca B. Targeting GLI1 and GLI2 with small molecule inhibitors to suppress GLI-dependent transcription and tumor growth. Pharmacol Res 2023; 195:106858. [PMID: 37473878 DOI: 10.1016/j.phrs.2023.106858] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/24/2023] [Revised: 07/17/2023] [Accepted: 07/17/2023] [Indexed: 07/22/2023]
Abstract
Aberrant activation of Hedgehog (HH) signaling in cancer is the result of genetic alterations of upstream pathway components (canonical) or other oncogenic mechanisms (noncanonical), that ultimately concur to activate the zinc-finger transcription factors GLI1 and GLI2. Therefore, inhibition of GLI activity is a good therapeutic option to suppress both canonical and noncanonical activation of the HH pathway. However, only a few GLI inhibitors are available, and none of them have the profile required for clinical development due to poor metabolic stability and aqueous solubility, and high hydrophobicity. Two promising quinoline inhibitors of GLI were selected by virtual screening and subjected to hit-to-lead optimization, thus leading to the identification of the 4-methoxy-8-hydroxyquinoline derivative JC19. This molecule impaired GLI1 and GLI2 activities in several cellular models interfering with the binding of GLI1 and GLI2 to DNA. JC19 suppressed cancer cell proliferation by enhancing apoptosis, inducing a strong anti-tumor response in several cancer cell lines in vitro. Specificity towards GLI1 and GLI2 was demonstrated by lower activity of JC19 in GLI1- or GLI2-depleted cancer cells. JC19 showed excellent metabolic stability and high passive permeability. Notably, JC19 inhibited GLI1-dependent melanoma xenograft growth in vivo, with no evidence of toxic effects in mice. These results highlight the potential of JC19 as a novel anti-cancer agent targeting GLI1 and GLI2.
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Affiliation(s)
- Luisa Maresca
- Core Research Laboratory - Institute for Cancer Research and Prevention (ISPRO), Florence, Italy
| | - Enrica Crivaro
- Core Research Laboratory - Institute for Cancer Research and Prevention (ISPRO), Florence, Italy; Dept. of Biotechnology, Chemistry and Pharmacy, University of Siena, Siena, Italy
| | - Francesca Migliorini
- Dept. of Biotechnology, Chemistry and Pharmacy, University of Siena, Siena, Italy
| | - Giulia Anichini
- Core Research Laboratory - Institute for Cancer Research and Prevention (ISPRO), Florence, Italy
| | - Alessandro Giammona
- Core Research Laboratory - Institute for Cancer Research and Prevention (ISPRO), Florence, Italy
| | - Sara Pepe
- Core Research Laboratory - Institute for Cancer Research and Prevention (ISPRO), Florence, Italy
| | - Federica Poggialini
- Dept. of Biotechnology, Chemistry and Pharmacy, University of Siena, Siena, Italy
| | - Chiara Vagaggini
- Dept. of Biotechnology, Chemistry and Pharmacy, University of Siena, Siena, Italy
| | | | - Serena Sestini
- Plastic and Reconstructive Surgery Unit Regional Melanoma Referral Center and Melanoma & Skin Cancer Unit, Santa Maria Annunziata Hospital, Florence, Italy
| | - Lorenzo Borgognoni
- Plastic and Reconstructive Surgery Unit Regional Melanoma Referral Center and Melanoma & Skin Cancer Unit, Santa Maria Annunziata Hospital, Florence, Italy
| | - Andrea Lapucci
- Department of Health Sciences, University of Florence, Florence, Italy
| | - Elena Dreassi
- Dept. of Biotechnology, Chemistry and Pharmacy, University of Siena, Siena, Italy
| | - Maurizio Taddei
- Dept. of Biotechnology, Chemistry and Pharmacy, University of Siena, Siena, Italy
| | - Fabrizio Manetti
- Dept. of Biotechnology, Chemistry and Pharmacy, University of Siena, Siena, Italy.
| | - Elena Petricci
- Dept. of Biotechnology, Chemistry and Pharmacy, University of Siena, Siena, Italy.
| | - Barbara Stecca
- Core Research Laboratory - Institute for Cancer Research and Prevention (ISPRO), Florence, Italy.
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Grazia Martina M, Giammarino F, Vicenti I, Groaz E, Rozenski J, Incerti M, Sannio F, Docquier JD, Zazzi M, Radi M. Nucleoside Derivatives of 2,6-Diaminopurine Antivirals: Base-Modified Nucleosides with Broad-Spectrum Antimicrobial Properties. ChemMedChem 2023; 18:e202300200. [PMID: 37221137 DOI: 10.1002/cmdc.202300200] [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: 04/12/2023] [Revised: 05/22/2023] [Accepted: 05/23/2023] [Indexed: 05/25/2023]
Abstract
The plethora of viral outbreaks experienced in the last decade, together with the widespread distribution of many re-emerging and newly emerging viruses, emphasize the urgent need for novel broad-spectrum antivirals as tools for early intervention in case of future epidemics. Non-natural nucleosides have been at the forefront for the treatment of infectious diseases for many years and still represent one of the most successful classes of antiviral molecules on the market. In the attempt to explore the biologically relevant chemical space of this class of antimicrobials, we describe herein the development of novel base-modified nucleosides by converting previously identified 2,6-diaminopurine antivirals into the corresponding D/L ribonucleosides, acyclic nucleosides and prodrug derivatives. A phenotypic screening against viruses belonging to different families (Flaviviridae, Coronaviridae, Retroviridae) and against a panel of Gram-positive and Gram-negative bacteria, allowed to identify a few interesting molecules with broad-spectrum antimicrobial activities.
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Affiliation(s)
- Maria Grazia Martina
- Dipartimento di Scienze degli Alimenti e del Farmaco, Università degli Studi di Parma, Parco Area delle Scienze, 27/A, 43124, Parma, Italy
| | - Federica Giammarino
- Dipartimento di Biotecnologie Mediche, Università degli Studi di Siena, Viale Bracci 16, 53100, Siena, Italy
| | - Ilaria Vicenti
- Dipartimento di Biotecnologie Mediche, Università degli Studi di Siena, Viale Bracci 16, 53100, Siena, Italy
| | - Elisabetta Groaz
- Rega Institute for Medical Research, Medicinal Chemistry, KU Leuven, Herestraat 49-Box 1041, 3000, Leuven, Belgium
- Department of Pharmaceutical and Pharmacological Sciences, University of Padova, Via Marzolo 5, 35131, Padova, Italy
| | - Jef Rozenski
- Rega Institute for Medical Research, Medicinal Chemistry, KU Leuven, Herestraat 49-Box 1041, 3000, Leuven, Belgium
| | - Matteo Incerti
- Dipartimento di Scienze degli Alimenti e del Farmaco, Università degli Studi di Parma, Parco Area delle Scienze, 27/A, 43124, Parma, Italy
| | - Filomena Sannio
- Dipartimento di Biotecnologie Mediche, Università degli Studi di Siena, Viale Bracci 16, 53100, Siena, Italy
| | - Jean Denis Docquier
- Dipartimento di Biotecnologie Mediche, Università degli Studi di Siena, Viale Bracci 16, 53100, Siena, Italy
- Laboratoire de Bactériologie Moléculaire, Centre d'Ingénierie des Protéines, University of Liège, Allée du 6 Août, 4000, Liège, Belgium
| | - Maurizio Zazzi
- Dipartimento di Biotecnologie Mediche, Università degli Studi di Siena, Viale Bracci 16, 53100, Siena, Italy
| | - Marco Radi
- Dipartimento di Scienze degli Alimenti e del Farmaco, Università degli Studi di Parma, Parco Area delle Scienze, 27/A, 43124, Parma, Italy
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Naineni SK, Robert F, Nagar B, Pelletier J. Targeting DEAD-box RNA helicases: The emergence of molecular staples. WILEY INTERDISCIPLINARY REVIEWS. RNA 2023; 14:e1738. [PMID: 35581936 DOI: 10.1002/wrna.1738] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/15/2022] [Revised: 04/13/2022] [Accepted: 04/16/2022] [Indexed: 12/29/2022]
Abstract
RNA helicases constitute a large family of proteins that play critical roles in mediating RNA function. They have been implicated in all facets of gene expression pathways involving RNA, from transcription to processing, transport and translation, and storage and decay. There is significant interest in developing small molecule inhibitors to RNA helicases as some family members have been documented to be dysregulated in neurological and neurodevelopment disorders, as well as in cancers. Although different functional properties of RNA helicases offer multiple opportunities for small molecule development, molecular staples have recently come to the forefront. These bifunctional molecules interact with both protein and RNA components to lock them together, thereby imparting novel gain-of-function properties to their targets. This article is categorized under: RNA Interactions with Proteins and Other Molecules > Small Molecule-RNA Interactions RNA Interactions with Proteins and Other Molecules > Protein-RNA Interactions: Functional Implications.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sai Kiran Naineni
- Department of Biochemistry, McGill University, Montreal, Quebec, Canada
| | - Francis Robert
- Department of Biochemistry, McGill University, Montreal, Quebec, Canada
| | - Bhushan Nagar
- Department of Biochemistry, McGill University, Montreal, Quebec, Canada
| | - Jerry Pelletier
- Department of Biochemistry, McGill University, Montreal, Quebec, Canada.,Department of Oncology, McGill University, Montreal, Quebec, Canada.,Rosalind and Morris Goodman Cancer Institute, McGill University, Montreal, Quebec, Canada
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Biological Evaluation and In Vitro Characterization of ADME Profile of In-House Pyrazolo[3,4- d]pyrimidines as Dual Tyrosine Kinase Inhibitors Active against Glioblastoma Multiforme. Pharmaceutics 2023; 15:pharmaceutics15020453. [PMID: 36839775 PMCID: PMC9966370 DOI: 10.3390/pharmaceutics15020453] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/28/2022] [Revised: 01/19/2023] [Accepted: 01/27/2023] [Indexed: 01/31/2023] Open
Abstract
The therapeutic use of tyrosine kinase inhibitors (TKIs) represents one of the successful strategies for the treatment of glioblastoma (GBM). Pyrazolo[3,4-d]pyrimidines have already been reported as promising small molecules active as c-Src/Abl dual inhibitors. Herein, we present a series of pyrazolo[3,4-d]pyrimidine derivatives, selected from our in-house library, to identify a promising candidate active against GBM. The inhibitory activity against c-Src and Abl was investigated, and the antiproliferative profile against four GBM cell lines was studied. For the most active compounds endowed with antiproliferative efficacy in the low-micromolar range, the effects toward nontumoral, healthy cell lines (fibroblasts FIBRO 2-93 and keratinocytes HaCaT) was investigated. Lastly, the in silico and in vitro ADME properties of all compounds were also assessed. Among the tested compounds, the promising inhibitory activity against c-Src and Abl (Ki 3.14 µM and 0.44 µM, respectively), the irreversible, apoptotic-mediated death toward U-87, LN18, LN229, and DBTRG GBM cell lines (IC50 6.8 µM, 10.8 µM, 6.9 µM, and 8.5 µM, respectively), the significant reduction in GBM cell migration, the safe profile toward FIBRO 2-93 and HaCaT healthy cell lines (CC50 91.7 µM and 126.5 µM, respectively), the high metabolic stability, and the excellent passive permeability across gastrointestinal and blood-brain barriers led us to select compound 5 for further in vivo assays.
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Privileged Scaffold Decoration for the Identification of the First Trisubstituted Triazine with Anti-SARS-CoV-2 Activity. MOLECULES (BASEL, SWITZERLAND) 2022; 27:molecules27248829. [PMID: 36557962 PMCID: PMC9782877 DOI: 10.3390/molecules27248829] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/31/2022] [Revised: 12/09/2022] [Accepted: 12/10/2022] [Indexed: 12/14/2022]
Abstract
Current therapy against severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus type 2 (SARS-CoV-2) are based on the use of Remdesivir 1, Molnupiravir 2, and the recently identified Nirmatrelvir 3. Unfortunately, these three drugs showed some limitations regarding potency and possible drug-drug interactions. A series of derivatives coming from a decoration approach of the privileged scaffold s-triazines were synthesized and evaluated against SAR-CoV-2. One derivative emerged as the hit of the series for its micromolar antiviral activity and low cytotoxicity. Mode of action and pharmacokinetic in vitro preliminary studies further confirm the role as candidates for a future optimization campaign of the most active derivative identified with this work.
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Lengerli D, Ibis K, Nural Y, Banoglu E. The 1,2,3-triazole 'all-in-one' ring system in drug discovery: a good bioisostere, a good pharmacophore, a good linker, and a versatile synthetic tool. Expert Opin Drug Discov 2022; 17:1209-1236. [PMID: 36164263 DOI: 10.1080/17460441.2022.2129613] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/11/2023]
Abstract
INTRODUCTION The 1,2,3-triazole ring occupies an important space in medicinal chemistry due to its unique structural properties, synthetic versatility and pharmacological potential making it a critical scaffold. Since it is readily available through click chemistry for creating compound collections against various diseases, it has become an emerging area of interest for medicinal chemists. AREAS COVERED This review article addresses the unique properties of the1,2,3-triazole nucleus as an intriguing ring system in drug discovery while focusing on the most recent medicinal chemistry strategies exploited for the design and development of 1,2,3-triazole analogs as inhibitors of various biological targets. EXPERT OPINION Evidently, the 1,2,3-triazole ring with unique structural features has enormous potential in drug design against various diseases as a pharmacophore, a bioisoster or a structural platform. The most recent evidence indicates that it may be more emerging in drug molecules in near future along with an increasing understanding of its prominent roles in drug structures. The synthetic feasibility and versatility of triazole chemistry make it certainly ideal for creating compound libraries for more constructive structure-activity relationship studies. However, more comparative and target-specific studies are needed to gain a deeper understanding of the roles of the 1,2,3-triazole ring in molecular recognition.[Figure: see text].
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Affiliation(s)
- Deniz Lengerli
- Department of Pharmaceutical Chemistry, Faculty of Pharmacy, Gazi University, Ankara, Turkey
| | - Kübra Ibis
- Department of Pharmaceutical Chemistry, Faculty of Pharmacy, Gazi University, Ankara, Turkey
| | - Yahya Nural
- Department of Analytical Chemistry, Faculty of Pharmacy, Mersin University, Mersin, Turkey
| | - Erden Banoglu
- Department of Pharmaceutical Chemistry, Faculty of Pharmacy, Gazi University, Ankara, Turkey
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Ryan CS, Schröder M. The human DEAD-box helicase DDX3X as a regulator of mRNA translation. Front Cell Dev Biol 2022; 10:1033684. [PMID: 36393867 PMCID: PMC9642913 DOI: 10.3389/fcell.2022.1033684] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/31/2022] [Accepted: 10/07/2022] [Indexed: 08/27/2023] Open
Abstract
The human DEAD-box protein DDX3X is an RNA remodelling enzyme that has been implicated in various aspects of RNA metabolism. In addition, like many DEAD-box proteins, it has non-conventional functions that are independent of its enzymatic activity, e.g., DDX3X acts as an adaptor molecule in innate immune signalling pathways. DDX3X has been linked to several human diseases. For example, somatic mutations in DDX3X were identified in various human cancers, and de novo germline mutations cause a neurodevelopmental condition now termed 'DDX3X syndrome'. DDX3X is also an important host factor in many different viral infections, where it can have pro-or anti-viral effects depending on the specific virus. The regulation of translation initiation for specific mRNA transcripts is likely a central cellular function of DDX3X, yet many questions regarding its exact targets and mechanisms of action remain unanswered. In this review, we explore the current knowledge about DDX3X's physiological RNA targets and summarise its interactions with the translation machinery. A role for DDX3X in translational reprogramming during cellular stress is emerging, where it may be involved in the regulation of stress granule formation and in mediating non-canonical translation initiation. Finally, we also discuss the role of DDX3X-mediated translation regulation during viral infections. Dysregulation of DDX3X's function in mRNA translation likely contributes to its involvement in disease pathophysiology. Thus, a better understanding of its exact mechanisms for regulating translation of specific mRNA targets is important, so that we can potentially develop therapeutic strategies for overcoming the negative effects of its dysregulation.
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Wang W, Li Y, Zhang Z, Wei W. Human immunodeficiency virus-1 core: The Trojan horse in virus–host interaction. Front Microbiol 2022; 13:1002476. [PMID: 36106078 PMCID: PMC9465167 DOI: 10.3389/fmicb.2022.1002476] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/25/2022] [Accepted: 08/04/2022] [Indexed: 11/13/2022] Open
Abstract
Human immunodeficiency virus-1 (HIV-1) is the major cause of acquired immunodeficiency syndrome (AIDs) worldwide. In HIV-1 infection, innate immunity is the first defensive line for immune recognition and viral clearance to ensure the normal biological function of the host cell and body health. Under the strong selected pressure generated by the human body over thousands of years, HIV has evolved strategies to counteract and deceive the innate immune system into completing its lifecycle. Recently, several studies have demonstrated that HIV capsid core which is thought to be a protector of the cone structure of genomic RNA, also plays an essential role in escaping innate immunity surveillance. This mini-review summarizes the function of capsid in viral immune evasion, and the comprehensive elucidation of capsid-host cell innate immunity interaction could promote our understanding of HIV-1’s pathogenic mechanism and provide insights for HIV-1 treatment in clinical therapy.
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Affiliation(s)
- Wei Wang
- Institute of Virology and AIDS Research, The First Hospital of Jilin University, Changchun, Jilin, China
| | - Yan Li
- Institute of Virology and AIDS Research, The First Hospital of Jilin University, Changchun, Jilin, China
| | - Zhe Zhang
- Institute of Virology and AIDS Research, The First Hospital of Jilin University, Changchun, Jilin, China
| | - Wei Wei
- Institute of Virology and AIDS Research, The First Hospital of Jilin University, Changchun, Jilin, China
- Key Laboratory of Organ Regeneration and Transplantation of Ministry of Education, Institute of Translational Medicine, First Hospital, Jilin University, Changchun, Jilin, China
- *Correspondence: Wei Wei,
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Vesuna F, Akhrymuk I, Smith A, Winnard PT, Lin SC, Panny L, Scharpf R, Kehn-Hall K, Raman V. RK-33, a small molecule inhibitor of host RNA helicase DDX3, suppresses multiple variants of SARS-CoV-2. Front Microbiol 2022; 13:959577. [PMID: 36090095 PMCID: PMC9453862 DOI: 10.3389/fmicb.2022.959577] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/01/2022] [Accepted: 07/27/2022] [Indexed: 12/03/2022] Open
Abstract
SARS-CoV-2, the virus behind the deadly COVID-19 pandemic, continues to spread globally even as vaccine strategies are proving effective in preventing hospitalizations and deaths. However, evolving variants of the virus appear to be more transmissive and vaccine efficacy toward them is waning. As a result, SARS-CoV-2 will continue to have a deadly impact on public health into the foreseeable future. One strategy to bypass the continuing problem of newer variants is to target host proteins required for viral replication. We have used this host-targeted antiviral (HTA) strategy that targets DDX3X (DDX3), a host DEAD-box RNA helicase that is usurped by SARS-CoV-2 for virus production. We demonstrated that targeting DDX3 with RK-33, a small molecule inhibitor, reduced the viral load in four isolates of SARS-CoV-2 (Lineage A, and Lineage B Alpha, Beta, and Delta variants) by one to three log orders in Calu-3 cells. Furthermore, proteomics and RNA-seq analyses indicated that most SARS-CoV-2 genes were downregulated by RK-33 treatment. Also, we show that the use of RK-33 decreases TMPRSS2 expression, which may be due to DDX3s ability to unwind G-quadraplex structures present in the TMPRSS2 promoter. The data presented support the use of RK-33 as an HTA strategy to control SARS-CoV-2 infection, irrespective of its mutational status, in humans.
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Affiliation(s)
- Farhad Vesuna
- Division of Cancer Imaging Research, Department of Radiology, Johns Hopkins University School of Medicine, Baltimore, MD, United States
| | - Ivan Akhrymuk
- Department of Biomedical Science and Pathobiology, Virginia-Maryland College of Veterinary Medicine, Virginia Polytechnic Institute and State University, Blacksburg, VA, United States
| | - Amy Smith
- Department of Biomedical Science and Pathobiology, Virginia-Maryland College of Veterinary Medicine, Virginia Polytechnic Institute and State University, Blacksburg, VA, United States
| | - Paul T. Winnard
- Division of Cancer Imaging Research, Department of Radiology, Johns Hopkins University School of Medicine, Baltimore, MD, United States
| | - Shih-Chao Lin
- Bachelor Degree Program in Marine Biotechnology, College of Life Sciences, National Taiwan Ocean University, Keelung, Taiwan
| | - Lauren Panny
- Department of Biomedical Science and Pathobiology, Virginia-Maryland College of Veterinary Medicine, Virginia Polytechnic Institute and State University, Blacksburg, VA, United States
| | - Robert Scharpf
- Division of Biostatistics and Bioinformatics, Department of Oncology, Johns Hopkins University School of Medicine, Baltimore, MD, United States
| | - Kylene Kehn-Hall
- Department of Biomedical Science and Pathobiology, Virginia-Maryland College of Veterinary Medicine, Virginia Polytechnic Institute and State University, Blacksburg, VA, United States
- Center for Zoonotic and Arthropod-borne Pathogens, Virginia Polytechnic Institute and State University, Blacksburg, VA, United States
- *Correspondence: Kylene Kehn-Hall,
| | - Venu Raman
- Division of Cancer Imaging Research, Department of Radiology, Johns Hopkins University School of Medicine, Baltimore, MD, United States
- Departments of Oncology, Pharmacology and Molecular Sciences, Johns Hopkins University School of Medicine, Baltimore, MD, United States
- Department of Pathology, University Medical Center Utrecht, Utrecht, Netherlands
- Venu Raman,
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12
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Szychowski J, Papp R, Dietrich E, Liu B, Vallée F, Leclaire MÈ, Fourtounis J, Martino G, Perryman AL, Pau V, Yun Yin S, Mader P, Roulston A, Truchon JF, Marshall CG, Diallo M, Duffy NM, Stocco R, Godbout C, Bonneau-Fortin A, Kryczka R, Bhaskaran V, Mao D, Orlicky S, Beaulieu P, Turcotte P, Kurinov I, Sicheri F, Mamane Y, Gallant M, Black WC. Discovery of an Orally Bioavailable and Selective PKMYT1 Inhibitor, RP-6306. J Med Chem 2022; 65:10251-10284. [PMID: 35880755 PMCID: PMC9837800 DOI: 10.1021/acs.jmedchem.2c00552] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/17/2023]
Abstract
PKMYT1 is a regulator of CDK1 phosphorylation and is a compelling therapeutic target for the treatment of certain types of DNA damage response cancers due to its established synthetic lethal relationship with CCNE1 amplification. To date, no selective inhibitors have been reported for this kinase that would allow for investigation of the pharmacological role of PKMYT1. To address this need compound 1 was identified as a weak PKMYT1 inhibitor. Introduction of a dimethylphenol increased potency on PKMYT1. These dimethylphenol analogs were found to exist as atropisomers that could be separated and profiled as single enantiomers. Structure-based drug design enabled optimization of cell-based potency. Parallel optimization of ADME properties led to the identification of potent and selective inhibitors of PKMYT1. RP-6306 inhibits CCNE1-amplified tumor cell growth in several preclinical xenograft models. The first-in-class clinical candidate RP-6306 is currently being evaluated in Phase 1 clinical trials for treatment of various solid tumors.
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Affiliation(s)
- Janek Szychowski
- Repare Therapeutics, Inc., 7210 Frederick-Banting, Ville St-Laurent, QC, H4S 2A1, Canada
| | - Robert Papp
- Repare Therapeutics, Inc., 7210 Frederick-Banting, Ville St-Laurent, QC, H4S 2A1, Canada
| | - Evelyne Dietrich
- Repare Therapeutics, Inc., 7210 Frederick-Banting, Ville St-Laurent, QC, H4S 2A1, Canada
| | - Bingcan Liu
- Repare Therapeutics, Inc., 7210 Frederick-Banting, Ville St-Laurent, QC, H4S 2A1, Canada
| | - Frédéric Vallée
- Repare Therapeutics, Inc., 7210 Frederick-Banting, Ville St-Laurent, QC, H4S 2A1, Canada
| | - Marie-Ève Leclaire
- Repare Therapeutics, Inc., 7210 Frederick-Banting, Ville St-Laurent, QC, H4S 2A1, Canada
| | - Jimmy Fourtounis
- Repare Therapeutics, Inc., 7210 Frederick-Banting, Ville St-Laurent, QC, H4S 2A1, Canada
| | - Giovanni Martino
- Repare Therapeutics, Inc., 7210 Frederick-Banting, Ville St-Laurent, QC, H4S 2A1, Canada
| | - Alexander L. Perryman
- Repare Therapeutics, Inc., 7210 Frederick-Banting, Ville St-Laurent, QC, H4S 2A1, Canada
| | - Victor Pau
- Lunenfeld-Tanenbaum Research Institute, Sinai Health System, Toronto, ON, M5G 1X5, Canada
| | - Shou Yun Yin
- Repare Therapeutics, Inc., 7210 Frederick-Banting, Ville St-Laurent, QC, H4S 2A1, Canada
| | - Pavel Mader
- Lunenfeld-Tanenbaum Research Institute, Sinai Health System, Toronto, ON, M5G 1X5, Canada
| | - Anne Roulston
- Repare Therapeutics, Inc., 7210 Frederick-Banting, Ville St-Laurent, QC, H4S 2A1, Canada
| | - Jean-Francois Truchon
- Repare Therapeutics, Inc., 7210 Frederick-Banting, Ville St-Laurent, QC, H4S 2A1, Canada
| | - C. Gary Marshall
- Repare Therapeutics, 1 Broadway, 15th Floor, Cambridge, MA 02142, USA
| | - Mohamed Diallo
- Repare Therapeutics, Inc., 7210 Frederick-Banting, Ville St-Laurent, QC, H4S 2A1, Canada
| | - Nicole M. Duffy
- Repare Therapeutics, Inc., 7210 Frederick-Banting, Ville St-Laurent, QC, H4S 2A1, Canada
| | - Rino Stocco
- Repare Therapeutics, Inc., 7210 Frederick-Banting, Ville St-Laurent, QC, H4S 2A1, Canada
| | - Claude Godbout
- Repare Therapeutics, Inc., 7210 Frederick-Banting, Ville St-Laurent, QC, H4S 2A1, Canada
| | | | - Rosie Kryczka
- Repare Therapeutics, Inc., 7210 Frederick-Banting, Ville St-Laurent, QC, H4S 2A1, Canada
| | - Vivek Bhaskaran
- Repare Therapeutics, Inc., 7210 Frederick-Banting, Ville St-Laurent, QC, H4S 2A1, Canada
| | - Daniel Mao
- Lunenfeld-Tanenbaum Research Institute, Sinai Health System, Toronto, ON, M5G 1X5, Canada
| | - Stephen Orlicky
- Lunenfeld-Tanenbaum Research Institute, Sinai Health System, Toronto, ON, M5G 1X5, Canada
| | - Patrick Beaulieu
- OmegaChem Inc., 480 Rue Perreault, Saint-Romuald, QC, G6W 7V6, Canada
| | - Pascal Turcotte
- AdMare BioInnovations, 7171 Frederick-Banting, Montréal, QC, H4S 1Z9, Canada
| | - Igor Kurinov
- Department of Chemistry and Chemical Biology, Cornell University, NE-CAT, Argonne, Il 60439, USA
| | - Frank Sicheri
- Lunenfeld-Tanenbaum Research Institute, Sinai Health System, Toronto, ON, M5G 1X5, Canada
- Departments of Biochemistry and Molecular Genetics, University of Toronto, Ontario M5S 1A8, Canada
| | - Yael Mamane
- Repare Therapeutics, Inc., 7210 Frederick-Banting, Ville St-Laurent, QC, H4S 2A1, Canada
| | - Michel Gallant
- Repare Therapeutics, Inc., 7210 Frederick-Banting, Ville St-Laurent, QC, H4S 2A1, Canada
| | - W. Cameron Black
- Repare Therapeutics, Inc., 7210 Frederick-Banting, Ville St-Laurent, QC, H4S 2A1, Canada
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13
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Brai A, Trivisani CI, Poggialini F, Pasqualini C, Vagaggini C, Dreassi E. DEAD-Box Helicase DDX3X as a Host Target against Emerging Viruses: New Insights for Medicinal Chemical Approaches. J Med Chem 2022; 65:10195-10216. [PMID: 35899912 DOI: 10.1021/acs.jmedchem.2c00755] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/29/2022]
Abstract
In recent years, globalization, global warming, and population aging have contributed to the spread of emerging viruses, such as coronaviruses (COVs), West Nile (WNV), Dengue (DENV), and Zika (ZIKV). The number of reported infections is increasing, and considering the high viral mutation rate, it is conceivable that it will increase significantly in the coming years. The risk caused by viruses is now more evident due to the COVID-19 pandemic, which highlighted the need to find new broad-spectrum antiviral agents able to tackle the present pandemic and future epidemics. DDX3X helicase is a host factor required for viral replication. Selective inhibitors have been identified and developed into broad-spectrum antivirals active against emerging pathogens, including SARS-CoV-2 and most importantly against drug-resistant strains. This perspective describes the inhibitors identified in the last years, highlighting their therapeutic potential as innovative broad-spectrum antivirals.
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Affiliation(s)
- Annalaura Brai
- Department of Biotechnology, Chemistry & Pharmacy, University of Siena, I-53100 Siena Italy
| | | | - Federica Poggialini
- Department of Biotechnology, Chemistry & Pharmacy, University of Siena, I-53100 Siena Italy
| | - Claudia Pasqualini
- Department of Biotechnology, Chemistry & Pharmacy, University of Siena, I-53100 Siena Italy
| | - Chiara Vagaggini
- Department of Biotechnology, Chemistry & Pharmacy, University of Siena, I-53100 Siena Italy
| | - Elena Dreassi
- Department of Biotechnology, Chemistry & Pharmacy, University of Siena, I-53100 Siena Italy
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14
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Loh D, Reiter RJ. Melatonin: Regulation of Viral Phase Separation and Epitranscriptomics in Post-Acute Sequelae of COVID-19. Int J Mol Sci 2022; 23:8122. [PMID: 35897696 PMCID: PMC9368024 DOI: 10.3390/ijms23158122] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/25/2022] [Revised: 07/09/2022] [Accepted: 07/20/2022] [Indexed: 01/27/2023] Open
Abstract
The relentless, protracted evolution of the SARS-CoV-2 virus imposes tremendous pressure on herd immunity and demands versatile adaptations by the human host genome to counter transcriptomic and epitranscriptomic alterations associated with a wide range of short- and long-term manifestations during acute infection and post-acute recovery, respectively. To promote viral replication during active infection and viral persistence, the SARS-CoV-2 envelope protein regulates host cell microenvironment including pH and ion concentrations to maintain a high oxidative environment that supports template switching, causing extensive mitochondrial damage and activation of pro-inflammatory cytokine signaling cascades. Oxidative stress and mitochondrial distress induce dynamic changes to both the host and viral RNA m6A methylome, and can trigger the derepression of long interspersed nuclear element 1 (LINE1), resulting in global hypomethylation, epigenetic changes, and genomic instability. The timely application of melatonin during early infection enhances host innate antiviral immune responses by preventing the formation of "viral factories" by nucleocapsid liquid-liquid phase separation that effectively blockades viral genome transcription and packaging, the disassembly of stress granules, and the sequestration of DEAD-box RNA helicases, including DDX3X, vital to immune signaling. Melatonin prevents membrane depolarization and protects cristae morphology to suppress glycolysis via antioxidant-dependent and -independent mechanisms. By restraining the derepression of LINE1 via multifaceted strategies, and maintaining the balance in m6A RNA modifications, melatonin could be the quintessential ancient molecule that significantly influences the outcome of the constant struggle between virus and host to gain transcriptomic and epitranscriptomic dominance over the host genome during acute infection and PASC.
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Affiliation(s)
- Doris Loh
- Independent Researcher, Marble Falls, TX 78654, USA;
| | - Russel J. Reiter
- Department of Cell Systems and Anatomy, UT Health San Antonio, San Antonio, TX 78229, USA
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15
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Zhai LY, Liu JF, Zhao JJ, Su AM, Xi XG, Hou XM. Targeting the RNA G-Quadruplex and Protein Interactome for Antiviral Therapy. J Med Chem 2022; 65:10161-10182. [PMID: 35862260 DOI: 10.1021/acs.jmedchem.2c00649] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/28/2022]
Abstract
In recent years, G-quadruplexes (G4s), types of noncanonical four-stranded nucleic acid structures, have been identified in many viruses that threaten human health, such as HIV and Epstein-Barr virus. In this context, G4 ligands were designed to target the G4 structures, among which some have shown promising antiviral effects. In this Perspective, we first summarize the diversified roles of RNA G4s in different viruses. Next, we introduce small-molecule ligands developed as G4 modulators and highlight their applications in antiviral studies. In addition to G4s, we comprehensively review the medical intervention of G4-interacting proteins from both the virus (N protein, viral-encoded helicases, severe acute respiratory syndrome-unique domain, and Epstein-Barr nuclear antigen 1) and the host (heterogeneous nuclear ribonucleoproteins, RNA helicases, zinc-finger cellular nucelic acid-binding protein, and nucleolin) by inhibitors as an alternative way to disturb the normal functions of G4s. Finally, we discuss the challenges and opportunities in G4-based antiviral therapy.
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Affiliation(s)
- Li-Yan Zhai
- College of Life Sciences, Northwest A&F University, Xianyang, Shaanxi 712100, China
| | - Jing-Fan Liu
- College of Life Sciences, Northwest A&F University, Xianyang, Shaanxi 712100, China
| | - Jian-Jin Zhao
- College of Life Sciences, Northwest A&F University, Xianyang, Shaanxi 712100, China
| | - Ai-Min Su
- College of Life Sciences, Northwest A&F University, Xianyang, Shaanxi 712100, China
| | - Xu-Guang Xi
- College of Life Sciences, Northwest A&F University, Xianyang, Shaanxi 712100, China.,Laboratory of Biology and Applied Pharmacology, CNRS UMR 8113, IDA FR3242, ENS Paris-Saclay, Université Paris-Saclay, Gif-sur-Yvette 91190, France
| | - Xi-Miao Hou
- College of Life Sciences, Northwest A&F University, Xianyang, Shaanxi 712100, China
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16
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Vandelli A, Vocino G, Tartaglia GG. Phase Separation Drives SARS-CoV-2 Replication: A Hypothesis. Front Mol Biosci 2022; 9:893067. [PMID: 35647024 PMCID: PMC9132231 DOI: 10.3389/fmolb.2022.893067] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/09/2022] [Accepted: 04/25/2022] [Indexed: 12/28/2022] Open
Abstract
Identifying human proteins that interact with SARS-CoV-2 genome is important to understand its replication and to identify therapeutic strategies. Recent studies have unveiled protein interactions of SARS-COV-2 in different cell lines and through a number of high-throughput approaches. Here, we carried out a comparative analysis of four experimental and one computational studies to characterize the interactions of SARS-CoV-2 genomic RNA. Although hundreds of interactors have been identified, only twenty-one appear in all the experiments and show a strong propensity to bind. This set of interactors includes stress granule forming proteins, pre-mRNA regulators and elements involved in the replication process. Our calculations indicate that DDX3X and several editases bind the 5′ end of SARS-CoV-2, a regulatory region previously reported to attract a large number of proteins. The small overlap among experimental datasets suggests that SARS-CoV-2 genome establishes stable interactions only with few interactors, while many proteins bind less tightly. In analogy to what has been previously reported for Xist non-coding RNA, we propose a mechanism of phase separation through which SARS-CoV-2 progressively sequesters human proteins hijacking the host immune response.
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Affiliation(s)
- Andrea Vandelli
- Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, Universitat Autònoma de Barcelona, Barcelona, Spain
- Universitat Pompeu Fabra (UPF), Barcelona, Spain
| | - Giovanni Vocino
- Department of Pharmacy and Biotechnology, University of Bologna, Bologna, Italy
| | - Gian Gaetano Tartaglia
- Center for Human Technologies, Istituto Italiano di Tecnologia, Genova, Italy
- Department of Biology ‘Charles Darwin’, Sapienza University of Rome, Rome, Italy
- Institucio Catalana de Recerca i Estudis Avançats (ICREA), Barcelona, Spain
- *Correspondence: Gian Gaetano Tartaglia,
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17
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Vesuna F, Akhrymuk I, Smith A, Winnard PT, Lin SC, Scharpf R, Kehn-Hall K, Raman V. RK-33, a small molecule inhibitor of host RNA helicase DDX3, suppresses multiple variants of SARS-CoV-2. BIORXIV : THE PREPRINT SERVER FOR BIOLOGY 2022:2022.02.28.482334. [PMID: 35262079 PMCID: PMC8902879 DOI: 10.1101/2022.02.28.482334] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 06/14/2023]
Abstract
SARS-CoV-2, the virus behind the deadly COVID-19 pandemic, continues to spread globally even as vaccine strategies are proving effective in preventing hospitalizations and deaths. However, evolving variants of the virus appear to be more transmissive and vaccine efficacy towards them is waning. As a result, SARS-CoV-2 will continue to have a deadly impact on public health into the foreseeable future. One strategy to bypass the continuing problem of newer variants is to target host proteins required for viral replication. We have used this host-targeted antiviral (HTA) strategy that targets DDX3, a host DEAD-box RNA helicase that is usurped by SARS-CoV-2 for virus production. We demonstrated that targeting DDX3 with RK-33, a small molecule inhibitor, reduced the viral load in four isolates of SARS-CoV-2 (Lineage A, and Lineage B Alpha, Beta, and Delta variants) by one to three log orders in Calu-3 cells. Furthermore, proteomics and RNA-seq analyses indicated that most SARS-CoV-2 genes were downregulated by RK-33 treatment. Also, we show that the use of RK-33 decreases TMPRSS2 expression, which may be due to DDX3s ability to unwind G-quadraplex structures present in the TMPRSS2 promoter. The data presented supports the use of RK-33 as an HTA strategy to control SARS-CoV-2 infection, irrespective of its mutational status, in humans.
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Targeting DDX3X Helicase Activity with BA103 Shows Promising Therapeutic Effects in Preclinical Glioblastoma Models. Cancers (Basel) 2021; 13:cancers13215569. [PMID: 34771731 PMCID: PMC8582824 DOI: 10.3390/cancers13215569] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/27/2021] [Revised: 10/29/2021] [Accepted: 10/30/2021] [Indexed: 01/16/2023] Open
Abstract
Simple Summary In the last ten years, the human helicase protein DDX3X turned out to be an extremely interesting target for the development of potential anticancer drugs. Herein, we discovered BA103, a novel specific inhibitor of the helicase binding site of DDX3X, which is characterized by broad-spectrum anticancer activity. BA103 revealed promising tolerability in fibroblasts and good pharmacokinetic properties. Furthermore, BA103 was able to decrease the expression of β-catenin and to reduce tumor migration. Its capability to pass the blood–brain barrier led us to investigate its potential against glioblastoma, which is a high refractory disease with poor prognosis. High efficacy was proven in both xenograft and orthotopic animal models. Abstract DDX3X is an ATP-dependent RNA helicase that has recently attracted interest for its involvement in viral replication and oncogenic progression. Starting from hit compounds previously identified by our group, we have designed and synthesized a new series of DDX3X inhibitors that effectively blocked its helicase activity. These new compounds were able to inhibit the proliferation of cell lines from different cancer types, also in DDX3X low-expressing cancer cell lines. According to the absorption, distribution, metabolism, elimination properties, and antitumoral activity, compound BA103 was chosen to be further investigated in glioblastoma models. BA103 determined a significant reduction in the proliferation and migration of U87 and U251 cells, downregulating the oncogenic protein β-catenin. An in vivo evaluation demonstrated that BA103 was able to reach the brain and reduce the tumor growth in xenograft and orthotopic models without evident side effects. This study represents the first demonstration that DDX3X-targeted small molecules are feasible and promising drugs also in glioblastoma.
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19
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RNA Helicase DDX3: A Double-Edged Sword for Viral Replication and Immune Signaling. Microorganisms 2021; 9:microorganisms9061206. [PMID: 34204859 PMCID: PMC8227550 DOI: 10.3390/microorganisms9061206] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/02/2021] [Revised: 05/20/2021] [Accepted: 05/21/2021] [Indexed: 12/19/2022] Open
Abstract
DDX3 is a cellular ATP-dependent RNA helicase involved in different aspects of RNA metabolism ranging from transcription to translation and therefore, DDX3 participates in the regulation of key cellular processes including cell cycle progression, apoptosis, cancer and the antiviral immune response leading to type-I interferon production. DDX3 has also been described as an essential cellular factor for the replication of different viruses, including important human threats such HIV-1 or HCV, and different small molecules targeting DDX3 activity have been developed. Indeed, increasing evidence suggests that DDX3 can be considered not only a promising but also a viable target for anticancer and antiviral treatments. In this review, we summarize distinct functional aspects of DDX3 focusing on its participation as a double-edged sword in the host immune response and in the replication cycle of different viruses.
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20
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Selective cell death in HIV-1-infected cells by DDX3 inhibitors leads to depletion of the inducible reservoir. Nat Commun 2021; 12:2475. [PMID: 33931637 PMCID: PMC8087668 DOI: 10.1038/s41467-021-22608-z] [Citation(s) in RCA: 24] [Impact Index Per Article: 8.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/09/2020] [Accepted: 03/15/2021] [Indexed: 02/02/2023] Open
Abstract
An innovative approach to eliminate HIV-1-infected cells emerging out of latency, the major hurdle to HIV-1 cure, is to pharmacologically reactivate viral expression and concomitantly trigger intracellular pro-apoptotic pathways in order to selectively induce cell death (ICD) of infected cells, without reliance on the extracellular immune system. In this work, we demonstrate the effect of DDX3 inhibitors on selectively inducing cell death in latent HIV-1-infected cell lines, primary CD4+ T cells and in CD4+ T cells from cART-suppressed people living with HIV-1 (PLWHIV). We used single-cell FISH-Flow technology to characterise the contribution of viral RNA to inducing cell death. The pharmacological targeting of DDX3 induced HIV-1 RNA expression, resulting in phosphorylation of IRF3 and upregulation of IFNβ. DDX3 inhibition also resulted in the downregulation of BIRC5, critical to cell survival during HIV-1 infection, and selectively induced apoptosis in viral RNA-expressing CD4+ T cells but not bystander cells. DDX3 inhibitor treatment of CD4+ T cells from PLWHIV resulted in an approximately 50% reduction of the inducible latent HIV-1 reservoir by quantitation of HIV-1 RNA, by FISH-Flow, RT-qPCR and TILDA. This study provides proof of concept for pharmacological reversal of latency coupled to induction of apoptosis towards the elimination of the inducible reservoir.
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21
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Ciccosanti F, Di Rienzo M, Romagnoli A, Colavita F, Refolo G, Castilletti C, Agrati C, Brai A, Manetti F, Botta L, Capobianchi MR, Ippolito G, Piacentini M, Fimia GM. Proteomic analysis identifies the RNA helicase DDX3X as a host target against SARS-CoV-2 infection. Antiviral Res 2021; 190:105064. [PMID: 33781803 PMCID: PMC7997689 DOI: 10.1016/j.antiviral.2021.105064] [Citation(s) in RCA: 33] [Impact Index Per Article: 11.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/01/2020] [Revised: 03/09/2021] [Accepted: 03/13/2021] [Indexed: 12/31/2022]
Abstract
COVID-19 is currently a highly pressing health threat and therapeutic strategies to mitigate the infection impact are urgently needed. Characterization of the SARS-CoV-2 interactome in infected cells may represent a powerful tool to identify cellular proteins hijacked by viruses for their life cycle and develop host-oriented antiviral therapeutics. Here we report the proteomic characterization of host proteins interacting with SARS-CoV-2 Nucleoprotein in infected Vero E6 cells. We identified 24 high-confidence proteins mainly playing a role in RNA metabolism and translation, including RNA helicases and scaffold proteins involved in the formation of stress granules, cytoplasmic aggregates of messenger ribonucleoproteins that accumulate as a result of stress-induced translation arrest. Analysis of stress granules upon SARS-CoV-2 infection showed that these structures are not induced in infected cells, neither eIF2α phosphorylation, an upstream event leading to stress-induced translation inhibition. Notably, we found that G3BP1, a stress granule component that associates with the Nucleoprotein, is required for efficient SARS-CoV-2 replication. Moreover, we showed that the Nucleoprotein-interacting RNA helicase DDX3X colocalizes with viral RNA foci and its inhibition by small molecules or small interfering RNAs significantly reduces viral replication. Altogether, these results indicate that SARS-CoV-2 subverts the stress granule machinery and exploits G3BP1 and DDX3X for its replication cycle, offering groundwork for future development of host-directed therapies.
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Affiliation(s)
- Fabiola Ciccosanti
- Department of Epidemiology, Preclinical Research and Advanced Diagnostics, National Institute for Infectious Diseases 'L. Spallanzani' IRCCS, Rome, Italy
| | - Martina Di Rienzo
- Department of Epidemiology, Preclinical Research and Advanced Diagnostics, National Institute for Infectious Diseases 'L. Spallanzani' IRCCS, Rome, Italy
| | - Alessandra Romagnoli
- Department of Epidemiology, Preclinical Research and Advanced Diagnostics, National Institute for Infectious Diseases 'L. Spallanzani' IRCCS, Rome, Italy
| | - Francesca Colavita
- Department of Epidemiology, Preclinical Research and Advanced Diagnostics, National Institute for Infectious Diseases 'L. Spallanzani' IRCCS, Rome, Italy
| | - Giulia Refolo
- Department of Epidemiology, Preclinical Research and Advanced Diagnostics, National Institute for Infectious Diseases 'L. Spallanzani' IRCCS, Rome, Italy
| | - Concetta Castilletti
- Department of Epidemiology, Preclinical Research and Advanced Diagnostics, National Institute for Infectious Diseases 'L. Spallanzani' IRCCS, Rome, Italy
| | - Chiara Agrati
- Department of Epidemiology, Preclinical Research and Advanced Diagnostics, National Institute for Infectious Diseases 'L. Spallanzani' IRCCS, Rome, Italy
| | - Annalaura Brai
- Department of Biotechnology, Chemistry and Pharmacy, University of Siena, Siena, Italy
| | - Fabrizio Manetti
- Department of Biotechnology, Chemistry and Pharmacy, University of Siena, Siena, Italy
| | - Lorenzo Botta
- Department of Ecological and Biological Sciences, University of Tuscia, Viterbo, Italy
| | - Maria Rosaria Capobianchi
- Department of Epidemiology, Preclinical Research and Advanced Diagnostics, National Institute for Infectious Diseases 'L. Spallanzani' IRCCS, Rome, Italy
| | - Giuseppe Ippolito
- Department of Epidemiology, Preclinical Research and Advanced Diagnostics, National Institute for Infectious Diseases 'L. Spallanzani' IRCCS, Rome, Italy
| | - Mauro Piacentini
- Department of Epidemiology, Preclinical Research and Advanced Diagnostics, National Institute for Infectious Diseases 'L. Spallanzani' IRCCS, Rome, Italy; Department of Biology, University of Rome 'Tor Vergata', Rome, Italy.
| | - Gian Maria Fimia
- Department of Epidemiology, Preclinical Research and Advanced Diagnostics, National Institute for Infectious Diseases 'L. Spallanzani' IRCCS, Rome, Italy; Department of Molecular Medicine, Sapienza University of Rome, Rome, Italy.
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22
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Targeting the DEAD-Box RNA Helicase eIF4A with Rocaglates-A Pan-Antiviral Strategy for Minimizing the Impact of Future RNA Virus Pandemics. Microorganisms 2021; 9:microorganisms9030540. [PMID: 33807988 PMCID: PMC8001013 DOI: 10.3390/microorganisms9030540] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/29/2021] [Revised: 03/01/2021] [Accepted: 03/02/2021] [Indexed: 12/17/2022] Open
Abstract
The increase in pandemics caused by RNA viruses of zoonotic origin highlights the urgent need for broad-spectrum antivirals against novel and re-emerging RNA viruses. Broad-spectrum antivirals could be deployed as first-line interventions during an outbreak while virus-specific drugs and vaccines are developed and rolled out. Viruses depend on the host’s protein synthesis machinery for replication. Several natural compounds that target the cellular DEAD-box RNA helicase eIF4A, a key component of the eukaryotic translation initiation complex eIF4F, have emerged as potential broad-spectrum antivirals. Rocaglates, a group of flavaglines of plant origin that clamp mRNAs with highly structured 5′ untranslated regions (5′UTRs) onto the surface of eIF4A through specific stacking interactions, exhibit the largest selectivity and potential therapeutic indices among all known eIF4A inhibitors. Their unique mechanism of action limits the inhibitory effect of rocaglates to the translation of eIF4A-dependent viral mRNAs and a minor fraction of host mRNAs exhibiting stable RNA secondary structures and/or polypurine sequence stretches in their 5′UTRs, resulting in minimal potential toxic side effects. Maintaining a favorable safety profile while inducing efficient inhibition of a broad spectrum of RNA viruses makes rocaglates into primary candidates for further development as pan-antiviral therapeutics.
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Squeglia F, Romano M, Ruggiero A, Maga G, Berisio R. Host DDX Helicases as Possible SARS-CoV-2 Proviral Factors: A Structural Overview of Their Hijacking Through Multiple Viral Proteins. Front Chem 2020; 8:602162. [PMID: 33381492 PMCID: PMC7769135 DOI: 10.3389/fchem.2020.602162] [Citation(s) in RCA: 17] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/02/2020] [Accepted: 11/10/2020] [Indexed: 12/13/2022] Open
Abstract
As intracellular parasites, viruses hijack the host cell metabolic machinery for their replication. Among other cellular proteins, the DEAD-box (DDX) RNA helicases have been shown to be hijacked by coronaviruses and to participate in essential DDX-mediated viral replication steps. Human DDX RNA helicases play essential roles in a broad array of biological processes and serve multiple roles at the virus-host interface. The viral proteins responsible for DDX interactions are highly conserved among coronaviruses, suggesting that they might also play conserved functions in the SARS-CoV-2 replication cycle. In this review, we provide an update of the structural and functional data of DDX as possible key factors involved in SARS-CoV-2 hijacking mechanisms. We also attempt to fill the existing gaps in the available structural information through homology modeling. Based on this information, we propose possible paths exploited by the virus to replicate more efficiently by taking advantage of host DDX proteins. As a general rule, sequestration of DDX helicases by SARS-CoV-2 is expected to play a pro-viral role in two ways: by enhancing key steps of the virus life cycle and, at the same time, by suppressing the host innate immune response.
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Affiliation(s)
- Flavia Squeglia
- Institute of Biostructures and Bioimaging (IBB-CNR), Naples, Italy
| | - Maria Romano
- Institute of Biostructures and Bioimaging (IBB-CNR), Naples, Italy
| | - Alessia Ruggiero
- Institute of Biostructures and Bioimaging (IBB-CNR), Naples, Italy
| | - Giovanni Maga
- Institute of Molecular Genetics (IGM-CNR), Pavia, Italy
| | - Rita Berisio
- Institute of Biostructures and Bioimaging (IBB-CNR), Naples, Italy
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Winnard PT, Vesuna F, Raman V. Targeting host DEAD-box RNA helicase DDX3X for treating viral infections. Antiviral Res 2020; 185:104994. [PMID: 33301755 DOI: 10.1016/j.antiviral.2020.104994] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/21/2020] [Revised: 11/19/2020] [Accepted: 12/02/2020] [Indexed: 02/06/2023]
Abstract
DDX3X or DDX3, a member of the DEAD (asp, glu, ala, asp) box RNA helicase family of proteins, is a multifunctional protein, which is usurped by several viruses and is vital to their production. To date, 18 species of virus from 12 genera have been demonstrated to be dependent on DDX3 for virulence. In addition, DDX3 has been shown to function within 7 of 10 subcellular regions that are involved in the metabolism of viruses. As such, due to its direct interaction with viral components across most or all stages of viral life cycles, DDX3 can be considered an excellent host target for pan-antiviral drug therapy and has been reported to be a possible broad-spectrum antiviral target. Along these lines, it has been demonstrated that treatment of virally infected cells with small molecule inhibitors of DDX3 blunts virion productions. On the other hand, DDX3 bolsters an innate immune response and viruses have evolved capacities to sequester or block DDX3, which dampens an innate immune response. Thus, enhancing DDX3 production or co-targeting direct viral products that interfere with DDX3's modulation of innate immunity would also diminish virion production. Here we review the evidence that supports the hypothesis that modulating DDX3's agonistic and antagonistic functions during viral infections could have an important impact on safely and efficiently subduing a broad-spectrum of viral infections.
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Affiliation(s)
- Paul T Winnard
- Division of Cancer Imaging Research, The Russell H Morgan Department of Radiology and Radiological Sciences, USA
| | - Farhad Vesuna
- Division of Cancer Imaging Research, The Russell H Morgan Department of Radiology and Radiological Sciences, USA
| | - Venu Raman
- Division of Cancer Imaging Research, The Russell H Morgan Department of Radiology and Radiological Sciences, USA; Department of Oncology, The Johns Hopkins University, School of Medicine, Baltimore, MD, USA; Department of Pathology, University Medical Center Utrecht, Utrecht, the Netherlands.
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Riva V, Garbelli A, Brai A, Casiraghi F, Fazi R, Trivisani CI, Boccuto A, Saladini F, Vicenti I, Martelli F, Zazzi M, Giannecchini S, Dreassi E, Botta M, Maga G. Unique Domain for a Unique Target: Selective Inhibitors of Host Cell DDX3X to Fight Emerging Viruses. J Med Chem 2020; 63:9876-9887. [PMID: 32787106 DOI: 10.1021/acs.jmedchem.0c01039] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/14/2023]
Abstract
Emerging viruses like dengue, West Nile, chikungunya, and Zika can cause widespread viral epidemics. Developing novel drugs or vaccines against specific targets for each virus is a difficult task. As obligate parasites, all viruses exploit common cellular pathways, providing the possibility to develop broad-spectrum antiviral agents targeting host factors. The human DEAD-box RNA helicase DDX3X is an essential cofactor for viral replication but dispensable for cell viability. Herein, we exploited the presence of a unique structural motif of DDX3X not shared by other cellular enzymes to develop a theoretical model to aid in the design of a novel class of highly selective inhibitors acting against such specific targets, thus limiting off-targeting effects. High-throughput virtual screening led us to identify hit compound 5, endowed with promising antienzymatic activity. To improve its aqueous solubility, 5 and its two enantiomers were synthesized and converted into their corresponding acetate salts (compounds 11, 12, and 13). In vitro mutagenesis and biochemical and cellular assays further confirmed that the developed molecules were selective for DDX3X and were able to suppress replication of West Nile and dengue viruses in infected cells in the micromolar range while showing no toxicity for uninfected cells. These results provide proof of principle for a novel strategy in developing highly selective and broad-spectrum antiviral molecules active against emerging and dangerous viral pathogens. This study paves the way for the development of larger focused libraries targeting such domain to expand SAR studies and fully characterize their mode of interaction.
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Affiliation(s)
- Valentina Riva
- Istituto di Genetica Molecolare IGM-CNR "Luigi Luca Cavalli-Sforza", Via Abbiategrasso 207, I-27100 Pavia, Italy
| | - Anna Garbelli
- Istituto di Genetica Molecolare IGM-CNR "Luigi Luca Cavalli-Sforza", Via Abbiategrasso 207, I-27100 Pavia, Italy
| | - Annalaura Brai
- Dipartimento Biotecnologie, Chimica e Farmacia, Università degli Studi di Siena, Via A. Moro 2, I-53100 Siena, Italy
| | - Federica Casiraghi
- Istituto di Genetica Molecolare IGM-CNR "Luigi Luca Cavalli-Sforza", Via Abbiategrasso 207, I-27100 Pavia, Italy
| | - Roberta Fazi
- Dipartimento Biotecnologie, Chimica e Farmacia, Università degli Studi di Siena, Via A. Moro 2, I-53100 Siena, Italy
| | - Claudia I Trivisani
- Dipartimento Biotecnologie, Chimica e Farmacia, Università degli Studi di Siena, Via A. Moro 2, I-53100 Siena, Italy
| | - Adele Boccuto
- Dipartimento di Biotecnologie Mediche, Università degli Studi di Siena, Viale Bracci 16, I-53100 Siena, Italy
| | - Francesco Saladini
- Dipartimento di Biotecnologie Mediche, Università degli Studi di Siena, Viale Bracci 16, I-53100 Siena, Italy
| | - Ilaria Vicenti
- Dipartimento di Biotecnologie Mediche, Università degli Studi di Siena, Viale Bracci 16, I-53100 Siena, Italy
| | - Francesco Martelli
- Dipartimento di Medicina Sperimentale e Clinica, Università degli Studi di Firenze, Viale Morgnani 48, I-50134 Firenze, Italy
| | - Maurizio Zazzi
- Dipartimento di Biotecnologie Mediche, Università degli Studi di Siena, Viale Bracci 16, I-53100 Siena, Italy
| | - Simone Giannecchini
- Dipartimento di Medicina Sperimentale e Clinica, Università degli Studi di Firenze, Viale Morgnani 48, I-50134 Firenze, Italy
| | - Elena Dreassi
- Dipartimento Biotecnologie, Chimica e Farmacia, Università degli Studi di Siena, Via A. Moro 2, I-53100 Siena, Italy
| | - Maurizio Botta
- Dipartimento Biotecnologie, Chimica e Farmacia, Università degli Studi di Siena, Via A. Moro 2, I-53100 Siena, Italy.,Biotechnology College of Science and Technology, Temple University, Biolife Science Building, Suite 333, 1900 N 12th Street, Philadelphia, Pennsylvania 19122, United States
| | - Giovanni Maga
- Istituto di Genetica Molecolare IGM-CNR "Luigi Luca Cavalli-Sforza", Via Abbiategrasso 207, I-27100 Pavia, Italy
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