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Wang Y, Zhang Y, Wang P, Jing T, Hu Y, Chen X. Research Progress on Antiviral Activity of Heparin. Curr Med Chem 2024; 31:7-24. [PMID: 36740803 DOI: 10.2174/0929867330666230203124032] [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: 04/02/2022] [Revised: 11/06/2022] [Accepted: 11/17/2022] [Indexed: 02/07/2023]
Abstract
Heparin, as a glycosaminoglycan, is known for its anticoagulant and antithrombotic properties for several decades. Heparin is a life-saving drug and is widely used for anticoagulation in medical practice. In recent years, there have been extensive studies that heparin plays an important role in non-anticoagulant diseases, such as anti-inflammatory, anti-viral, anti-angiogenesis, anti-neoplastic, anti-metastatic effects, and so on. Clinical observation and in vitro experiments indicate that heparin displays a potential multitarget effect. In this brief review, we will summarize heparin and its derivative's recently studied progress for the treatment of various viral infections. The aim is to maximize the benefits of drugs through medically targeted development, to meet the unmet clinical needs of serious viral diseases.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yi Wang
- Chinese Materia Medica Pharmacology, Shandong Academy of Chinese Medicine, Jinan 250014, China
| | - Yanqing Zhang
- Shandong VeriSign Test Detection Co., LTD, Jinan, China
| | - Ping Wang
- Chinese Materia Medica Pharmacology, Shandong Academy of Chinese Medicine, Jinan 250014, China
| | - Tianyuan Jing
- School of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Shandong University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Jinan, China
| | - Yanan Hu
- School of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Shandong University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Jinan, China
| | - Xiushan Chen
- Zhenjiang Runjing High Purity Chemical Technology Co., Ltd., Zhenjiang, Jiangsu, China
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2
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Wang X, Sun L, Liu Z, Xing L, Zhu Y, Xu W, Xia S, Lu L, Jiang S. An engineered recombinant protein containing three structural domains in SARS-CoV-2 S2 protein has potential to act as a pan-human coronavirus entry inhibitor or vaccine antigen. Emerg Microbes Infect 2023; 12:2244084. [PMID: 37534910 PMCID: PMC10424610 DOI: 10.1080/22221751.2023.2244084] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/27/2023] [Revised: 07/16/2023] [Accepted: 07/30/2023] [Indexed: 08/04/2023]
Abstract
The threat to global health caused by three highly pathogenic human coronaviruses (HCoV), SARS-CoV-2, MERS-CoV and SARS-CoV, calls for the development of pan-HCoV therapeutics and vaccines. This study reports the design and engineering of a recombinant protein designated HR1LS. It contains three linked molecules, each consisting of three structural domains, including a heptad repeat 1 (HR1), a central helix (CH), and a stem helix (SH) region, in the S2 subunit of SARS-CoV-2 spike (S) protein. It was found that HR1LS protein automatically formed a trimer able to bind with heptad repeat 2 (HR2) region in the SARS-CoV-2 S2 subunit, thus potently inhibiting HCoV fusion and entry into host cells. Furthermore, immunization of mice with HR1LS, when combined with CF501 adjuvant, resulted in the production of neutralizing antibodies against infection of SARS-CoV-2 and its variants, as well as SARS-CoV, MERS-CoV, HCoV-229E, HCoV-NL63 and MjHKU4r-CoV-1. These results suggest that HR1LS is a promising candidate for further development as a novel HR1-trimer-based pan-HCoV entry inhibitor or vaccine for the treatment and prevention of infection by SARS-CoV-2 and its variants, but also other HCoVs with the potential to cause future emerging and re-emerging infectious coronavirus diseases.
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Affiliation(s)
- Xinling Wang
- Key Laboratory of Medical Molecular Virology (MOE/NHC/CAMS), School of Basic Medical Sciences, Shanghai Institute of Infectious Disease and Biosecurity, Shanghai Frontiers Science Center of Pathogenic Microbes and Infection, Fudan University, Shanghai, People’s Republic of China
| | - Lujia Sun
- Key Laboratory of Medical Molecular Virology (MOE/NHC/CAMS), School of Basic Medical Sciences, Shanghai Institute of Infectious Disease and Biosecurity, Shanghai Frontiers Science Center of Pathogenic Microbes and Infection, Fudan University, Shanghai, People’s Republic of China
| | - Zezhong Liu
- Key Laboratory of Medical Molecular Virology (MOE/NHC/CAMS), School of Basic Medical Sciences, Shanghai Institute of Infectious Disease and Biosecurity, Shanghai Frontiers Science Center of Pathogenic Microbes and Infection, Fudan University, Shanghai, People’s Republic of China
- Department of Pharmacology & Key Laboratory of Smart Drug Delivery, Ministry of Education, School of Pharmacy, Fudan University, Shanghai, People’s Republic of China
| | - Lixiao Xing
- Key Laboratory of Medical Molecular Virology (MOE/NHC/CAMS), School of Basic Medical Sciences, Shanghai Institute of Infectious Disease and Biosecurity, Shanghai Frontiers Science Center of Pathogenic Microbes and Infection, Fudan University, Shanghai, People’s Republic of China
| | - Yun Zhu
- National Key Laboratory of Biomacromolecules, CAS Center for Excellence in Biomacromolecules, Institute of Biophysics, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing, People’s Republic of China
| | - Wei Xu
- Key Laboratory of Medical Molecular Virology (MOE/NHC/CAMS), School of Basic Medical Sciences, Shanghai Institute of Infectious Disease and Biosecurity, Shanghai Frontiers Science Center of Pathogenic Microbes and Infection, Fudan University, Shanghai, People’s Republic of China
| | - Shuai Xia
- Key Laboratory of Medical Molecular Virology (MOE/NHC/CAMS), School of Basic Medical Sciences, Shanghai Institute of Infectious Disease and Biosecurity, Shanghai Frontiers Science Center of Pathogenic Microbes and Infection, Fudan University, Shanghai, People’s Republic of China
| | - Lu Lu
- Key Laboratory of Medical Molecular Virology (MOE/NHC/CAMS), School of Basic Medical Sciences, Shanghai Institute of Infectious Disease and Biosecurity, Shanghai Frontiers Science Center of Pathogenic Microbes and Infection, Fudan University, Shanghai, People’s Republic of China
| | - Shibo Jiang
- Key Laboratory of Medical Molecular Virology (MOE/NHC/CAMS), School of Basic Medical Sciences, Shanghai Institute of Infectious Disease and Biosecurity, Shanghai Frontiers Science Center of Pathogenic Microbes and Infection, Fudan University, Shanghai, People’s Republic of China
- Key Laboratory of Reproduction Regulation of National Population and Family Planning Commission, The Shanghai Institute of Planned Parenthood Research, Institute of Reproduction and Development, Fudan University, Shanghai, People’s Republic of China
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3
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Scheim DE, Vottero P, Santin AD, Hirsh AG. Sialylated Glycan Bindings from SARS-CoV-2 Spike Protein to Blood and Endothelial Cells Govern the Severe Morbidities of COVID-19. Int J Mol Sci 2023; 24:17039. [PMID: 38069362 PMCID: PMC10871123 DOI: 10.3390/ijms242317039] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/31/2023] [Revised: 11/24/2023] [Accepted: 11/27/2023] [Indexed: 12/18/2023] Open
Abstract
Consistent with well-established biochemical properties of coronaviruses, sialylated glycan attachments between SARS-CoV-2 spike protein (SP) and host cells are key to the virus's pathology. SARS-CoV-2 SP attaches to and aggregates red blood cells (RBCs), as shown in many pre-clinical and clinical studies, causing pulmonary and extrapulmonary microthrombi and hypoxia in severe COVID-19 patients. SARS-CoV-2 SP attachments to the heavily sialylated surfaces of platelets (which, like RBCs, have no ACE2) and endothelial cells (having minimal ACE2) compound this vascular damage. Notably, experimentally induced RBC aggregation in vivo causes the same key morbidities as for severe COVID-19, including microvascular occlusion, blood clots, hypoxia and myocarditis. Key risk factors for COVID-19 morbidity, including older age, diabetes and obesity, are all characterized by markedly increased propensity to RBC clumping. For mammalian species, the degree of clinical susceptibility to COVID-19 correlates to RBC aggregability with p = 0.033. Notably, of the five human betacoronaviruses, the two common cold strains express an enzyme that releases glycan attachments, while the deadly SARS, SARS-CoV-2 and MERS do not, although viral loads for COVID-19 and the two common cold infections are similar. These biochemical insights also explain the previously puzzling clinical efficacy of certain generics against COVID-19 and may support the development of future therapeutic strategies for COVID-19 and long COVID patients.
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Affiliation(s)
- David E Scheim
- US Public Health Service, Commissioned Corps, Inactive Reserve, Blacksburg, VA 24060, USA
| | - Paola Vottero
- Department of Biomedical Engineering, University of Alberta, Edmonton, AB T6G 1Z2, Canada
| | - Alessandro D Santin
- Department of Obstetrics, Gynecology & Reproductive Sciences, Yale School of Medicine, P.O. Box 208063, New Haven, CT 06520, USA
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4
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Samanta P, Mishra SK, Pomin VH, Doerksen RJ. Docking and Molecular Dynamics Simulations Clarify Binding Sites for Interactions of Novel Marine Sulfated Glycans with SARS-CoV-2 Spike Glycoprotein. Molecules 2023; 28:6413. [PMID: 37687244 PMCID: PMC10490367 DOI: 10.3390/molecules28176413] [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: 07/17/2023] [Revised: 08/29/2023] [Accepted: 08/29/2023] [Indexed: 09/10/2023] Open
Abstract
The entry of SARS-CoV-2 into the host cell is mediated by its S-glycoprotein (SGP). Sulfated glycans bind to the SGP receptor-binding domain (RBD), which forms a ternary complex with its receptor angiotensin converting enzyme 2. Here, we have conducted a thorough and systematic computational study of the binding of four oligosaccharide building blocks from novel marine sulfated glycans (isolated from Pentacta pygmaea and Isostichopus badionotus) to the non-glycosylated and glycosylated RBD. Blind docking studies using three docking programs identified five potential cryptic binding sites. Extensive site-targeted docking and molecular dynamics simulations using two force fields confirmed only two binding sites (Sites 1 and 5) for these novel, highly charged sulfated glycans, which were also confirmed by previously published reports. This work showed the structural features and key interactions driving ligand binding. A previous study predicted Site 2 to be a potential binding site, which was not observed here. The use of several molecular modeling approaches gave a comprehensive assessment. The detailed comparative study utilizing multiple modeling approaches is the first of its kind for novel glycan-SGP interaction characterization. This study provided insights into the key structural features of these novel glycans as they are considered for development as potential therapeutics.
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Affiliation(s)
- Priyanka Samanta
- Department of BioMolecular Sciences, School of Pharmacy, University of Mississippi, University, MS 38677-1848, USA; (P.S.); (S.K.M.); (V.H.P.)
| | - Sushil K. Mishra
- Department of BioMolecular Sciences, School of Pharmacy, University of Mississippi, University, MS 38677-1848, USA; (P.S.); (S.K.M.); (V.H.P.)
| | - Vitor H. Pomin
- Department of BioMolecular Sciences, School of Pharmacy, University of Mississippi, University, MS 38677-1848, USA; (P.S.); (S.K.M.); (V.H.P.)
- Research Institute of Pharmaceutical Sciences, School of Pharmacy, University of Mississippi, University, MS 38677-1848, USA
| | - Robert J. Doerksen
- Department of BioMolecular Sciences, School of Pharmacy, University of Mississippi, University, MS 38677-1848, USA; (P.S.); (S.K.M.); (V.H.P.)
- Research Institute of Pharmaceutical Sciences, School of Pharmacy, University of Mississippi, University, MS 38677-1848, USA
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Dos Santos AF, Martins MO, Lameira J, de Oliveira Araújo J, Frizzo MS, Davidson CB, de Souza DV, Machado AK, Mortari SR, Druzian DM, Tonel MZ, da Silva IZ, Fagan SB. Evaluation interaction of graphene oxide with heparin for antiviral blockade: a study of ab initio simulations, molecular docking, and experimental analysis. J Mol Model 2023; 29:235. [PMID: 37418181 DOI: 10.1007/s00894-023-05645-x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/13/2023] [Accepted: 06/30/2023] [Indexed: 07/08/2023]
Abstract
CONTEXT Heparin, one of the drugs reused in studies with antiviral activity, was chosen to investigate a possible blockade of the SARS-CoV-2 spike protein for viral entry through computational simulations and experimental analysis. Heparin was associated to graphene oxide to increase in the binding affinity in biological system. First, the electronic and chemical interaction between the molecules was analyzed through ab initio simulations. Later, we evaluate the biological compatibility of the nanosystems, in the target of the spike protein, through molecular docking. The results show that graphene oxide interacts with the heparin with an increase in the affinity energy with the spike protein, indicating a possible increment in the antiviral activity. Experimental analysis of synthesis and morphology of the nanostructures were carried out, indicating heparin absorption by graphene oxide, confirming the results of the first principle simulations. Experimental tests were conducted on the structure and surface of the nanomaterial, confirming the heparin aggregation on the synthesis with a size between the GO layers of 7.44 Å, indicating a C-O type bond, and exhibiting a hydrophilic surface characteristic (36.2°). METHODS Computational simulations of the ab initio with SIESTA code, LDA approximations, and an energy shift of 0.05 eV. Molecular docking simulations were performed in the AutoDock Vina software integrated with the AMDock Tools Software using the AMBER force field. GO, GO@2.5Heparin, and GO@5Heparin were synthesized by Hummers and impregnation methods, respectively, and characterized by X-ray diffraction and surface contact angle.
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Affiliation(s)
- André Flores Dos Santos
- Postgraduate Program in Nanoscience: Laboratory of Simulation and Modeling of Nanomaterials-LASIMON, Franciscan University-UFN, Andradas Street, 1614, Santa Maria, RS, 97010-030, Brazil.
| | - Mirkos Ortiz Martins
- Postgraduate Program in Nanoscience: Laboratory of Simulation and Modeling of Nanomaterials-LASIMON, Franciscan University-UFN, Andradas Street, 1614, Santa Maria, RS, 97010-030, Brazil
| | - Jerônimo Lameira
- Institute of Biological Sciences, Federal University of Pará-UFPA, Belém, PA, Brazil
| | | | - Marcela Sagrilo Frizzo
- Postgraduate Program in Chemical Engineering-PosENQ, Federal University of Santa Catarina-UFSC, Florianopolis, SC, Brazil
| | - Carolina Bordin Davidson
- Postgraduate Program in Nanosciences: Laboratory of Cell Culture and Bioactive Effects, Franciscan University-UFN, Santa Maria, RS, Brazil
| | - Diulie Valente de Souza
- Postgraduate Program in Nanosciences: Laboratory of Cell Culture and Bioactive Effects, Franciscan University-UFN, Santa Maria, RS, Brazil
| | - Alencar Kolinski Machado
- Postgraduate Program in Nanosciences: Laboratory of Cell Culture and Bioactive Effects, Franciscan University-UFN, Santa Maria, RS, Brazil
| | - Sérgio Roberto Mortari
- Postgraduate Program in Nanoscience: Laboratory of Simulation and Modeling of Nanomaterials-LASIMON, Franciscan University-UFN, Andradas Street, 1614, Santa Maria, RS, 97010-030, Brazil
| | - Daniel Moro Druzian
- Postgraduate Program in Nanoscience: Laboratory of Simulation and Modeling of Nanomaterials-LASIMON, Franciscan University-UFN, Andradas Street, 1614, Santa Maria, RS, 97010-030, Brazil
| | - Mariana Zancan Tonel
- Postgraduate Program in Nanoscience: Laboratory of Simulation and Modeling of Nanomaterials-LASIMON, Franciscan University-UFN, Andradas Street, 1614, Santa Maria, RS, 97010-030, Brazil
| | - Ivana Zanella da Silva
- Postgraduate Program in Nanoscience: Laboratory of Simulation and Modeling of Nanomaterials-LASIMON, Franciscan University-UFN, Andradas Street, 1614, Santa Maria, RS, 97010-030, Brazil
| | - Solange Binotto Fagan
- Postgraduate Program in Nanoscience: Laboratory of Simulation and Modeling of Nanomaterials-LASIMON, Franciscan University-UFN, Andradas Street, 1614, Santa Maria, RS, 97010-030, Brazil
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Cheong KL, Chen S, Teng B, Veeraperumal S, Zhong S, Tan K. Oligosaccharides as Potential Regulators of Gut Microbiota and Intestinal Health in Post-COVID-19 Management. Pharmaceuticals (Basel) 2023; 16:860. [PMID: 37375807 DOI: 10.3390/ph16060860] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/30/2023] [Revised: 06/05/2023] [Accepted: 06/07/2023] [Indexed: 06/29/2023] Open
Abstract
The COVID-19 pandemic has had a profound impact worldwide, resulting in long-term health effects for many individuals. Recently, as more and more people recover from COVID-19, there is an increasing need to identify effective management strategies for post-COVID-19 syndrome, which may include diarrhea, fatigue, and chronic inflammation. Oligosaccharides derived from natural resources have been shown to have prebiotic effects, and emerging evidence suggests that they may also have immunomodulatory and anti-inflammatory effects, which could be particularly relevant in mitigating the long-term effects of COVID-19. In this review, we explore the potential of oligosaccharides as regulators of gut microbiota and intestinal health in post-COVID-19 management. We discuss the complex interactions between the gut microbiota, their functional metabolites, such as short-chain fatty acids, and the immune system, highlighting the potential of oligosaccharides to improve gut health and manage post-COVID-19 syndrome. Furthermore, we review evidence of gut microbiota with angiotensin-converting enzyme 2 expression for alleviating post-COVID-19 syndrome. Therefore, oligosaccharides offer a safe, natural, and effective approach to potentially improving gut microbiota, intestinal health, and overall health outcomes in post-COVID-19 management.
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Affiliation(s)
- Kit-Leong Cheong
- Guangdong Provincial Key Laboratory of Aquatic Product Processing and Safety, Guangdong Province Engineering Laboratory for Marine Biological Products, Guangdong Provincial Engineering Technology Research Center of Seafood, Guangdong Provincial Science and Technology Innovation Center for Subtropical Fruit and Vegetable Processing, College of Food Science and Technology, Guangdong Ocean University, Zhanjiang 524088, China
| | - Shutong Chen
- Department of Biology, College of Science, Shantou University, Shantou 515063, China
| | - Bo Teng
- Department of Biology, College of Science, Shantou University, Shantou 515063, China
| | - Suresh Veeraperumal
- Department of Biology, College of Science, Shantou University, Shantou 515063, China
| | - Saiyi Zhong
- Guangdong Provincial Key Laboratory of Aquatic Product Processing and Safety, Guangdong Province Engineering Laboratory for Marine Biological Products, Guangdong Provincial Engineering Technology Research Center of Seafood, Guangdong Provincial Science and Technology Innovation Center for Subtropical Fruit and Vegetable Processing, College of Food Science and Technology, Guangdong Ocean University, Zhanjiang 524088, China
| | - Karsoon Tan
- Guangxi Key Laboratory of Beibu Gulf Biodiversity Conservation, Beibu Gulf University, Qinzhou 535000, China
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Gupta Y, Savytskyi OV, Coban M, Venugopal A, Pleqi V, Weber CA, Chitale R, Durvasula R, Hopkins C, Kempaiah P, Caulfield TR. Protein structure-based in-silico approaches to drug discovery: Guide to COVID-19 therapeutics. Mol Aspects Med 2023; 91:101151. [PMID: 36371228 PMCID: PMC9613808 DOI: 10.1016/j.mam.2022.101151] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/14/2022] [Revised: 10/19/2022] [Accepted: 10/21/2022] [Indexed: 11/06/2022]
Abstract
With more than 5 million fatalities and close to 300 million reported cases, COVID-19 is the first documented pandemic due to a coronavirus that continues to be a major health challenge. Despite being rapid, uncontrollable, and highly infectious in its spread, it also created incentives for technology development and redefined public health needs and research agendas to fast-track innovations to be translated. Breakthroughs in computational biology peaked during the pandemic with renewed attention to making all cutting-edge technology deliver agents to combat the disease. The demand to develop effective treatments yielded surprising collaborations from previously segregated fields of science and technology. The long-standing pharmaceutical industry's aversion to repurposing existing drugs due to a lack of exponential financial gain was overrun by the health crisis and pressures created by front-line researchers and providers. Effective vaccine development even at an unprecedented pace took more than a year to develop and commence trials. Now the emergence of variants and waning protections during the booster shots is resulting in breakthrough infections that continue to strain health care systems. As of now, every protein of SARS-CoV-2 has been structurally characterized and related host pathways have been extensively mapped out. The research community has addressed the druggability of a multitude of possible targets. This has been made possible due to existing technology for virtual computer-assisted drug development as well as new tools and technologies such as artificial intelligence to deliver new leads. Here in this article, we are discussing advances in the drug discovery field related to target-based drug discovery and exploring the implications of known target-specific agents on COVID-19 therapeutic management. The current scenario calls for more personalized medicine efforts and stratifying patient populations early on for their need for different combinations of prognosis-specific therapeutics. We intend to highlight target hotspots and their potential agents, with the ultimate goal of using rational design of new therapeutics to not only end this pandemic but also uncover a generalizable platform for use in future pandemics.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yash Gupta
- Department of Medicine, Infectious Diseases, Mayo Clinic, Jacksonville, FL, USA
| | - Oleksandr V Savytskyi
- Department of Neuroscience, Mayo Clinic, Jacksonville, FL, USA; In Vivo Biosystems, Eugene, OR, USA
| | - Matt Coban
- Department of Neuroscience, Mayo Clinic, Jacksonville, FL, USA; Department of Cancer Biology, Mayo Clinic, Jacksonville, FL, USA
| | | | - Vasili Pleqi
- Department of Medicine, Infectious Diseases, Mayo Clinic, Jacksonville, FL, USA
| | - Caleb A Weber
- Department of Neuroscience, Mayo Clinic, Jacksonville, FL, USA
| | - Rohit Chitale
- Department of Medicine, Infectious Diseases, Mayo Clinic, Jacksonville, FL, USA; The Council on Strategic Risks, 1025 Connecticut Ave NW, Washington, DC, USA
| | - Ravi Durvasula
- Department of Medicine, Infectious Diseases, Mayo Clinic, Jacksonville, FL, USA
| | | | - Prakasha Kempaiah
- Department of Medicine, Infectious Diseases, Mayo Clinic, Jacksonville, FL, USA
| | - Thomas R Caulfield
- Department of Neuroscience, Mayo Clinic, Jacksonville, FL, USA; Department of QHS Computational Biology, Mayo Clinic, Jacksonville, FL, USA; Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, Mayo Clinic, Rochester, MN, USA; Department of Clinical Genomics, Mayo Clinic, Rochester, MN, USA; Department of Neurosurgery, Mayo Clinic, Jacksonville, FL, USA.
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8
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Asiedu SO, Gupta Y, Nicolaescu V, Gula H, Caulfield TR, Durvasula R, Kempaiah P, Kwofie SK, Wilson MD. Mycolactone: A Broad Spectrum Multitarget Antiviral Active in the Picomolar Range for COVID-19 Prevention and Cure. Int J Mol Sci 2023; 24:ijms24087151. [PMID: 37108313 PMCID: PMC10139166 DOI: 10.3390/ijms24087151] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/24/2023] [Revised: 03/25/2023] [Accepted: 03/29/2023] [Indexed: 04/29/2023] Open
Abstract
We have previously shown computationally that Mycolactone (MLN), a toxin produced by Mycobacterium ulcerans, strongly binds to Munc18b and other proteins, presumably blocking degranulation and exocytosis of blood platelets and mast cells. We investigated the effect of MLN on endocytosis using similar approaches, and it bound strongly to the N-terminal of the clathrin protein and a novel SARS-CoV-2 fusion protein. Experimentally, we found 100% inhibition up to 60 nM and 84% average inhibition at 30 nM in SARS-CoV-2 live viral assays. MLN was also 10× more potent than remdesivir and molnupiravir. MLN's toxicity against human alveolar cell line A549, immortalized human fetal renal cell line HEK293, and human hepatoma cell line Huh7.1 were 17.12%, 40.30%, and 36.25%, respectively. The cytotoxicity IC50 breakpoint ratio versus anti-SARS-CoV-2 activity was more than 65-fold. The IC50 values against the alpha, delta, and Omicron variants were all below 0.020 µM, and 134.6 nM of MLN had 100% inhibition in an entry and spread assays. MLN is eclectic in its actions through its binding to Sec61, AT2R, and the novel fusion protein, making it a good drug candidate for treating and preventing COVID-19 and other similarly transmitted enveloped viruses and pathogens.
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Affiliation(s)
- Seth Osei Asiedu
- Department of Parasitology, Noguchi Memorial Institute for Medical Research, College of Health Sciences, University of Ghana, Legon, Accra P.O. Box GA 337, Ghana
| | - Yash Gupta
- Department of Medicine, Division of Infectious Diseases, Mayo Clinic, 4500 San Pablo Road, Jacksonville, FL 32224, USA
| | - Vlad Nicolaescu
- Department of Microbiology, Ricketts Laboratory, University of Chicago, Chicago, IL 60637, USA
| | - Haley Gula
- Department of Microbiology, Ricketts Laboratory, University of Chicago, Chicago, IL 60637, USA
| | - Thomas R Caulfield
- Department of Neuroscience, Division of QHS Computational Biology, Mayo Clinic, Jacksonville, FL 32224, USA
- Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, Mayo Clinic, Rochester, MN 55905, USA
| | - Ravi Durvasula
- Department of Medicine, Division of Infectious Diseases, Mayo Clinic, 4500 San Pablo Road, Jacksonville, FL 32224, USA
| | - Prakasha Kempaiah
- Department of Medicine, Division of Infectious Diseases, Mayo Clinic, 4500 San Pablo Road, Jacksonville, FL 32224, USA
| | - Samuel K Kwofie
- Department of Biomedical Engineering, School of Engineering, University of Ghana, Legon, Accra P.O. Box 77, Ghana
| | - Michael D Wilson
- Department of Parasitology, Noguchi Memorial Institute for Medical Research, College of Health Sciences, University of Ghana, Legon, Accra P.O. Box GA 337, Ghana
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9
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In Silico Binding of 2-Aminocyclobutanones to SARS-CoV-2 Nsp13 Helicase and Demonstration of Antiviral Activity. Int J Mol Sci 2023; 24:ijms24065120. [PMID: 36982188 PMCID: PMC10049026 DOI: 10.3390/ijms24065120] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/23/2023] [Revised: 02/22/2023] [Accepted: 03/02/2023] [Indexed: 03/10/2023] Open
Abstract
The landscape of viral strains and lineages of SARS-CoV-2 keeps changing and is currently dominated by Delta and Omicron variants. Members of the latest Omicron variants, including BA.1, are showing a high level of immune evasion, and Omicron has become a prominent variant circulating globally. In our search for versatile medicinal chemistry scaffolds, we prepared a library of substituted ɑ-aminocyclobutanones from an ɑ-aminocyclobutanone synthon (11). We performed an in silico screen of this actual chemical library as well as other virtual 2-aminocyclobutanone analogs against seven SARS-CoV-2 nonstructural proteins to identify potential drug leads against SARS-CoV-2, and more broadly against coronavirus antiviral targets. Several of these analogs were initially identified as in silico hits against SARS-CoV-2 nonstructural protein 13 (Nsp13) helicase through molecular docking and dynamics simulations. Antiviral activity of the original hits as well as ɑ-aminocyclobutanone analogs that were predicted to bind more tightly to SARS-CoV-2 Nsp13 helicase are reported. We now report cyclobutanone derivatives that exhibit anti-SARS-CoV-2 activity. Furthermore, the Nsp13 helicase enzyme has been the target of relatively few target-based drug discovery efforts, in part due to a very late release of a high-resolution structure accompanied by a limited understanding of its protein biochemistry. In general, antiviral agents initially efficacious against wild-type SARS-CoV-2 strains have lower activities against variants due to heavy viral loads and greater turnover rates, but the inhibitors we are reporting have higher activities against the later variants than the wild-type (10–20X). We speculate this could be due to Nsp13 helicase being a critical bottleneck in faster replication rates of the new variants, so targeting this enzyme affects these variants to an even greater extent. This work calls attention to cyclobutanones as a useful medicinal chemistry scaffold, and the need for additional focus on the discovery of Nsp13 helicase inhibitors to combat the aggressive and immune-evading variants of concern (VOCs).
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10
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McQuaid C, Solorzano A, Dickerson I, Deane R. Uptake of severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2 spike protein mediated by angiotensin converting enzyme 2 and ganglioside in human cerebrovascular cells. Front Neurosci 2023; 17:1117845. [PMID: 36875642 PMCID: PMC9980911 DOI: 10.3389/fnins.2023.1117845] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/06/2022] [Accepted: 01/30/2023] [Indexed: 02/18/2023] Open
Abstract
Introduction There is clinical evidence of neurological manifestations in coronavirus disease-19 (COVID-19). However, it is unclear whether differences in severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2 (SARS-CoV-2)/spike protein (SP) uptake by cells of the cerebrovasculature contribute to significant viral uptake to cause these symptoms. Methods Since the initial step in viral invasion is binding/uptake, we used fluorescently labeled wild type and mutant SARS-CoV-2/SP to study this process. Three cerebrovascular cell types were used (endothelial cells, pericytes, and vascular smooth muscle cells), in vitro. Results There was differential SARS-CoV-2/SP uptake by these cell types. Endothelial cells had the least uptake, which may limit SARS-CoV-2 uptake into brain from blood. Uptake was time and concentration dependent, and mediated by angiotensin converting enzyme 2 receptor (ACE2), and ganglioside (mono-sialotetrahexasylganglioside, GM1) that is predominantly expressed in the central nervous system and the cerebrovasculature. SARS-CoV-2/SPs with mutation sites, N501Y, E484K, and D614G, as seen in variants of interest, were also differentially taken up by these cell types. There was greater uptake compared to that of the wild type SARS-CoV-2/SP, but neutralization with anti-ACE2 or anti-GM1 antibodies was less effective. Conclusion The data suggested that in addition to ACE2, gangliosides are also an important entry point of SARS-CoV-2/SP into these cells. Since SARS-CoV-2/SP binding/uptake is the initial step in the viral penetration into cells, a longer exposure and higher titer are required for significant uptake into the normal brain. Gangliosides, including GM1, could be an additional potential SARS-CoV-2 and therapeutic target at the cerebrovasculature.
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Affiliation(s)
| | | | | | - Rashid Deane
- Department of Neuroscience, Del Monte Institute Neuroscience, University of Rochester, University of Rochester Medical Center (URMC), Rochester, NY, United States
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11
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Brechbühl J, Ferreira F, Lopes AC, Corset E, Gilliand N, Broillet MC. Ocular Symptoms Associated with COVID-19 Are Correlated with the Expression Profile of Mouse SARS-CoV-2 Binding Sites. Viruses 2023; 15:v15020354. [PMID: 36851565 PMCID: PMC9961464 DOI: 10.3390/v15020354] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/15/2022] [Revised: 01/19/2023] [Accepted: 01/24/2023] [Indexed: 01/28/2023] Open
Abstract
The COVID-19 pandemic has engendered significant scientific efforts in the understanding of its infectious agent SARS-CoV-2 and of its associated symptoms. A peculiar characteristic of this virus lies in its ability to challenge our senses, as its infection can lead to anosmia and ageusia. While ocular symptoms, such as conjunctivitis, optic neuritis or dry eyes, are also reported after viral infection, they have lower frequencies and severities, and their functional development is still elusive. Here, using combined technical approaches based on histological and gene profiling methods, we characterized the expression of SARS-CoV-2 binding sites (Ace2/Tmprss2) in the mouse eye. We found that ACE2 was ectopically expressed in subtissular ocular regions, such as in the optic nerve and in the Harderian/intraorbital lacrimal glands. Moreover, we observed an important variation of Ace2/Tmprss2 expression that is not only dependent on the age and sex of the animal, but also highly heterogenous between individuals. Our results thus give new insight into the expression of SARS-CoV-2 binding sites in the mouse eye and propose an interpretation of the human ocular-associated symptoms linked to SARS-CoV-2.
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12
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Eilts F, Bauer S, Fraser K, Dordick JS, Wolff MW, Linhardt RJ, Zhang F. The diverse role of heparan sulfate and other GAGs in SARS-CoV-2 infections and therapeutics. Carbohydr Polym 2023; 299:120167. [PMID: 36876764 PMCID: PMC9516881 DOI: 10.1016/j.carbpol.2022.120167] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/01/2022] [Revised: 09/22/2022] [Accepted: 09/23/2022] [Indexed: 11/25/2022]
Abstract
In December 2019, the global coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) pandemic began in Wuhan, China. COVID-19 is caused by the severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2 (SARS-CoV-2), which infects host cells primarily through the angiotensin-converting enzyme 2 (ACE2) receptor. In addition to ACE2, several studies have shown the importance of heparan sulfate (HS) on the host cell surface as a co-receptor for SARS-CoV-2-binding. This insight has driven research into antiviral therapies, aimed at inhibiting the HS co-receptor-binding, e.g., by glycosaminoglycans (GAGs), a family of sulfated polysaccharides that includes HS. Several GAGs, such as heparin (a highly sulfated analog of HS), are used to treat various health indications, including COVID-19. This review is focused on current research on the involvement of HS in SARS-CoV-2 infection, implications of viral mutations, as well as the use of GAGs and other sulfated polysaccharides as antiviral agents.
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Affiliation(s)
- Friederike Eilts
- Department of Chemical and Biological Engineering, Center for Biotechnology and Interdisciplinary Studies, Rensselaer Polytechnic Institute, Troy, NY, USA; Institute of Bioprocess Engineering and Pharmaceutical Technology, University of Applied Sciences Mittelhessen (THM), Giessen, Germany
| | - Sarah Bauer
- Department of Chemical and Biological Engineering, Center for Biotechnology and Interdisciplinary Studies, Rensselaer Polytechnic Institute, Troy, NY, USA
| | - Keith Fraser
- Department of Biological Sciences, Center for Biotechnology and Interdisciplinary Studies, Rensselaer Polytechnic Institute, Troy, NY, USA
| | - Jonathan S Dordick
- Department of Chemical and Biological Engineering, Center for Biotechnology and Interdisciplinary Studies, Rensselaer Polytechnic Institute, Troy, NY, USA; Department of Biological Sciences, Center for Biotechnology and Interdisciplinary Studies, Rensselaer Polytechnic Institute, Troy, NY, USA; Department of Biomedical Engineering, Center for Biotechnology and Interdisciplinary Studies, Rensselaer Polytechnic Institute, Troy, NY, USA
| | - Michael W Wolff
- Institute of Bioprocess Engineering and Pharmaceutical Technology, University of Applied Sciences Mittelhessen (THM), Giessen, Germany; Fraunhofer Institute for Molecular Biology and Applied Ecology (IME), Giessen, Germany
| | - Robert J Linhardt
- Department of Chemical and Biological Engineering, Center for Biotechnology and Interdisciplinary Studies, Rensselaer Polytechnic Institute, Troy, NY, USA; Department of Biological Sciences, Center for Biotechnology and Interdisciplinary Studies, Rensselaer Polytechnic Institute, Troy, NY, USA; Department of Biomedical Engineering, Center for Biotechnology and Interdisciplinary Studies, Rensselaer Polytechnic Institute, Troy, NY, USA; Department of Chemistry and Chemical Biology, Center for Biotechnology and Interdisciplinary Studies, Rensselaer Polytechnic Institute, Troy, NY, USA.
| | - Fuming Zhang
- Department of Chemical and Biological Engineering, Center for Biotechnology and Interdisciplinary Studies, Rensselaer Polytechnic Institute, Troy, NY, USA.
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13
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SARS-CoV-2 Spike Protein Induces Hemagglutination: Implications for COVID-19 Morbidities and Therapeutics and for Vaccine Adverse Effects. Int J Mol Sci 2022; 23:ijms232415480. [PMID: 36555121 PMCID: PMC9779393 DOI: 10.3390/ijms232415480] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/25/2022] [Revised: 12/02/2022] [Accepted: 12/03/2022] [Indexed: 12/13/2022] Open
Abstract
Experimental findings for SARS-CoV-2 related to the glycan biochemistry of coronaviruses indicate that attachments from spike protein to glycoconjugates on the surfaces of red blood cells (RBCs), other blood cells and endothelial cells are key to the infectivity and morbidity of COVID-19. To provide further insight into these glycan attachments and their potential clinical relevance, the classic hemagglutination (HA) assay was applied using spike protein from the Wuhan, Alpha, Delta and Omicron B.1.1.529 lineages of SARS-CoV-2 mixed with human RBCs. The electrostatic potential of the central region of spike protein from these four lineages was studied through molecular modeling simulations. Inhibition of spike protein-induced HA was tested using the macrocyclic lactone ivermectin (IVM), which is indicated to bind strongly to SARS-CoV-2 spike protein glycan sites. The results of these experiments were, first, that spike protein from these four lineages of SARS-CoV-2 induced HA. Omicron induced HA at a significantly lower threshold concentration of spike protein than the three prior lineages and was much more electropositive on its central spike protein region. IVM blocked HA when added to RBCs prior to spike protein and reversed HA when added afterward. These results validate and extend prior findings on the role of glycan bindings of viral spike protein in COVID-19. They furthermore suggest therapeutic options using competitive glycan-binding agents such as IVM and may help elucidate rare serious adverse effects (AEs) associated with COVID-19 mRNA vaccines, which use spike protein as the generated antigen.
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14
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Romeo I, Prandi IG, Giombini E, Gruber CEM, Pietrucci D, Borocci S, Abid N, Fava A, Beccari AR, Chillemi G, Talarico C. The Spike Mutants Website: A Worldwide Used Resource against SARS-CoV-2. Int J Mol Sci 2022; 23:13082. [PMID: 36361870 PMCID: PMC9654198 DOI: 10.3390/ijms232113082] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/21/2022] [Revised: 10/24/2022] [Accepted: 10/24/2022] [Indexed: 07/22/2023] Open
Abstract
A large number of SARS-CoV-2 mutations in a short period of time has driven scientific research related to vaccines, new drugs, and antibodies to combat the new variants of the virus. Herein, we present a web portal containing the structural information, the tridimensional coordinates, and the molecular dynamics trajectories of the SARS-CoV-2 spike protein and its main variants. The Spike Mutants website can serve as a rapid online tool for investigating the impact of novel mutations on virus fitness. Taking into account the high variability of SARS-CoV-2, this application can help the scientific community when prioritizing molecules for experimental assays, thus, accelerating the identification of promising drug candidates for COVID-19 treatment. Below we describe the main features of the platform and illustrate the possible applications for speeding up the drug discovery process and hypothesize new effective strategies to overcome the recurrent mutations in SARS-CoV-2 genome.
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Affiliation(s)
- Isabella Romeo
- Dipartimento di Scienze della Salute, Università Magna Græcia di Catanzaro, Campus “S. Venuta”, Viale Europa, 88100 Catanzaro, Italy
- Net4Science Academic Spin-Off, Università Magna Graecia di Catanzaro, Campus “S. Venuta”, Viale Europa, 88100 Catanzaro, Italy
| | - Ingrid Guarnetti Prandi
- Department for Innovation in Biological, Agro-Food and Forest Systems (DIBAF), University of Tuscia, Via S. Camillo de Lellis s.n.c., 01100 Viterbo, Italy
| | - Emanuela Giombini
- Laboratory of Virology, INMI Lazzaro Spallanzani IRCCS, Via Portuense 292, 00149 Roma, Italy
| | | | - Daniele Pietrucci
- Department for Innovation in Biological, Agro-Food and Forest Systems (DIBAF), University of Tuscia, Via S. Camillo de Lellis s.n.c., 01100 Viterbo, Italy
- Institute of Biomembranes, Bioenergetics and Molecular Biotechnologies (IBIOM), CNR, 70126 Bari, Italy
| | - Stefano Borocci
- Department for Innovation in Biological, Agro-Food and Forest Systems (DIBAF), University of Tuscia, Via S. Camillo de Lellis s.n.c., 01100 Viterbo, Italy
- Laboratory of Transmissible Diseases and Biological Active Substances LR99ES27, Faculty of Pharmacy, University of Monastir, Rue Ibn Sina, Monastir 5000, Tunisia
| | - Nabil Abid
- Laboratory of Transmissible Diseases and Biological Active Substances LR99ES27, Faculty of Pharmacy, University of Monastir, Rue Ibn Sina, Monastir 5000, Tunisia
- High Institute of Biotechnology of Monastir, Department of Molecular and Cellular Biology, University of Monastir, Monastir 5000, Tunisia
| | - Anna Fava
- Dompé Farmaceutici SpA, Via Tommaso De Amicis, 95, 80131 Napoli, Italy
| | - Andrea R. Beccari
- Dompé Farmaceutici SpA, Via Tommaso De Amicis, 95, 80131 Napoli, Italy
| | - Giovanni Chillemi
- Department for Innovation in Biological, Agro-Food and Forest Systems (DIBAF), University of Tuscia, Via S. Camillo de Lellis s.n.c., 01100 Viterbo, Italy
| | - Carmine Talarico
- Dompé Farmaceutici SpA, Via Tommaso De Amicis, 95, 80131 Napoli, Italy
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15
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Najer A, Blight J, Ducker CB, Gasbarri M, Brown JC, Che J, Høgset H, Saunders C, Ojansivu M, Lu Z, Lin Y, Yeow J, Rifaie-Graham O, Potter M, Tonkin R, Penders J, Doutch JJ, Georgiadou A, Barriga HMG, Holme MN, Cunnington AJ, Bugeon L, Dallman MJ, Barclay WS, Stellacci F, Baum J, Stevens MM. Potent Virustatic Polymer-Lipid Nanomimics Block Viral Entry and Inhibit Malaria Parasites In Vivo. ACS CENTRAL SCIENCE 2022; 8:1238-1257. [PMID: 36188342 PMCID: PMC9092191 DOI: 10.1021/acscentsci.1c01368] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 05/07/2023]
Abstract
Infectious diseases continue to pose a substantial burden on global populations, requiring innovative broad-spectrum prophylactic and treatment alternatives. Here, we have designed modular synthetic polymer nanoparticles that mimic functional components of host cell membranes, yielding multivalent nanomimics that act by directly binding to varied pathogens. Nanomimic blood circulation time was prolonged by reformulating polymer-lipid hybrids. Femtomolar concentrations of the polymer nanomimics were sufficient to inhibit herpes simplex virus type 2 (HSV-2) entry into epithelial cells, while higher doses were needed against severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2 (SARS-CoV-2). Given their observed virustatic mode of action, the nanomimics were also tested with malaria parasite blood-stage merozoites, which lose their invasive capacity after a few minutes. Efficient inhibition of merozoite invasion of red blood cells was demonstrated both in vitro and in vivo using a preclinical rodent malaria model. We envision these nanomimics forming an adaptable platform for developing pathogen entry inhibitors and as immunomodulators, wherein nanomimic-inhibited pathogens can be secondarily targeted to sites of immune recognition.
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Affiliation(s)
- Adrian Najer
- Department
of Materials, Department of Bioengineering, and Institute of Biomedical
Engineering, Imperial College London, London, SW7 2AZ, U.K.
- Department
of Life Sciences, Imperial College London, London, SW7 2AZ, U.K.
| | - Joshua Blight
- Department
of Life Sciences, Imperial College London, London, SW7 2AZ, U.K.
| | | | - Matteo Gasbarri
- Institute
of Materials, Ecole Polytechnique Fédérale
de Lausanne (EPFL), 1015 Lausanne, Switzerland
| | - Jonathan C. Brown
- Department
of Infectious Disease, Imperial College
London, London, W2 1PG, U.K.
| | - Junyi Che
- Department
of Materials, Department of Bioengineering, and Institute of Biomedical
Engineering, Imperial College London, London, SW7 2AZ, U.K.
| | - Håkon Høgset
- Department
of Materials, Department of Bioengineering, and Institute of Biomedical
Engineering, Imperial College London, London, SW7 2AZ, U.K.
| | - Catherine Saunders
- Department
of Materials, Department of Bioengineering, and Institute of Biomedical
Engineering, Imperial College London, London, SW7 2AZ, U.K.
| | - Miina Ojansivu
- Department
of Medical Biochemistry and Biophysics, Karolinska Institutet, SE-171 77 Stockholm, Sweden
| | - Zixuan Lu
- Department
of Materials, Department of Bioengineering, and Institute of Biomedical
Engineering, Imperial College London, London, SW7 2AZ, U.K.
| | - Yiyang Lin
- Department
of Materials, Department of Bioengineering, and Institute of Biomedical
Engineering, Imperial College London, London, SW7 2AZ, U.K.
| | - Jonathan Yeow
- Department
of Materials, Department of Bioengineering, and Institute of Biomedical
Engineering, Imperial College London, London, SW7 2AZ, U.K.
| | - Omar Rifaie-Graham
- Department
of Materials, Department of Bioengineering, and Institute of Biomedical
Engineering, Imperial College London, London, SW7 2AZ, U.K.
| | - Michael Potter
- Department
of Materials, Department of Bioengineering, and Institute of Biomedical
Engineering, Imperial College London, London, SW7 2AZ, U.K.
| | - Renée Tonkin
- Department
of Materials, Department of Bioengineering, and Institute of Biomedical
Engineering, Imperial College London, London, SW7 2AZ, U.K.
| | - Jelle Penders
- Department
of Materials, Department of Bioengineering, and Institute of Biomedical
Engineering, Imperial College London, London, SW7 2AZ, U.K.
| | - James J. Doutch
- Rutherford
Appleton Laboratory, ISIS Neutron and Muon
Source, STFC, Didcot OX11 ODE, U.K.
| | - Athina Georgiadou
- Department
of Infectious Disease, Imperial College
London, London, W2 1PG, U.K.
| | - Hanna M. G. Barriga
- Department
of Medical Biochemistry and Biophysics, Karolinska Institutet, SE-171 77 Stockholm, Sweden
| | - Margaret N. Holme
- Department
of Medical Biochemistry and Biophysics, Karolinska Institutet, SE-171 77 Stockholm, Sweden
| | | | - Laurence Bugeon
- Department
of Life Sciences, Imperial College London, London, SW7 2AZ, U.K.
| | | | - Wendy S. Barclay
- Department
of Infectious Disease, Imperial College
London, London, W2 1PG, U.K.
| | - Francesco Stellacci
- Institute
of Materials, Ecole Polytechnique Fédérale
de Lausanne (EPFL), 1015 Lausanne, Switzerland
- Institute
of Bioengineering, Ecole Polytechnique Fédérale
de Lausanne (EPFL), 1015 Lausanne, Switzerland
| | - Jake Baum
- Department
of Life Sciences, Imperial College London, London, SW7 2AZ, U.K.
| | - Molly M. Stevens
- Department
of Materials, Department of Bioengineering, and Institute of Biomedical
Engineering, Imperial College London, London, SW7 2AZ, U.K.
- Department
of Medical Biochemistry and Biophysics, Karolinska Institutet, SE-171 77 Stockholm, Sweden
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16
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Ali N, Khan R, AlAsmari AF, Kumar V. In silico investigations of heparin binding to SARS-CoV-2 variants with a focus at the RBD/ACE2 interface. Process Biochem 2022; 115:70-79. [PMID: 35194375 PMCID: PMC8849831 DOI: 10.1016/j.procbio.2022.02.012] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/30/2021] [Revised: 02/12/2022] [Accepted: 02/14/2022] [Indexed: 12/27/2022]
Abstract
The increased infectivity and transmissibility of SARS-CoV-2 new variants were contributed largely by increase binding of receptor binding domain (RBD) domain of the Spike (S) protein to its cellular receptor ACE2 (Angiotensin-Converting Enzyme 2). Several studies have indicated that heparin and its derivatives interact to SARS-CoV-2 S-RBD and inhibits the binding of ACE2 which blocks the viral invasion. However, it is largely unclear how these SARS-CoV-2 variants affects ACE2 binding in the presence of heparin. Herein, using the molecular docking and interaction energy analysis, we showed that N501Y, L452R-E484Q, and E484K mutations bind strongly with heparin in the range of - 7.4 to - 8.0 kcal/mol. The triple mutations, K417N-E484K-N501Y, and K417T-E484K-N501Y displayed weaker binding affinity to heparin (-6.6 kcal/mol). Further, we showed that most of the RBD mutations increased the binding affinity of ACE2 in the absence of heparin, with the maximum increase observed for N501Y (-13.7 kcal/mol). Also, in the presence of heparin, ACE2 binds strongly to the mutant RBD as compared to WT RBD. The strong RBD/ACE2 interaction was observed in case of triple variants (-11.3 kcal/mol) whereas, N501Y showed weakest binding of RBD/ACE2 in the presence of heparin (-9.2 kcal/mol). The strong binding of ACE2 to RBD-heparin complex in these variants will leads to strong inhibition of their entry into host cells.
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Affiliation(s)
- Nemat Ali
- Department of Pharmacology and Toxicology, College of Pharmacy, King Saud University, P.O.Box 55760, Riyadh 11451, Saudi Arabia
| | - Rehan Khan
- Department of Pathology, Case Western Reserve University, Cleveland, OH, USA
| | - Abdullah F. AlAsmari
- Department of Pharmacology and Toxicology, College of Pharmacy, King Saud University, P.O.Box 55760, Riyadh 11451, Saudi Arabia
| | - Vijay Kumar
- Amity Institute of Neuropsychology & Neurosciences, Amity University, Noida UP 201303, India,Corresponding author
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17
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Gupta Y, Maciorowski D, Medernach B, Becker DP, Durvasula R, Libertin CR, Kempaiah P. Iron dysregulation in COVID-19 and reciprocal evolution of SARS-CoV-2: Natura nihil frustra facit. J Cell Biochem 2022; 123:601-619. [PMID: 34997606 PMCID: PMC9015563 DOI: 10.1002/jcb.30207] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/13/2021] [Accepted: 12/16/2021] [Indexed: 12/12/2022]
Abstract
After more than a year of the COVID-19 pandemic, SARS-CoV-2 infection rates with newer variants continue to devastate much of the world. Global healthcare systems are overwhelmed with high positive patient numbers. Silent hypoxia accompanied by rapid deterioration and some cases with septic shock is responsible for COVID-19 mortality in many hospitalized patients. There is an urgent need to further understand the relationships and interplay with human host components during pathogenesis and immune evasion strategies. Currently, acquired immunity through vaccination or prior infection usually provides sufficient protection against the emerging variants of SARS-CoV-2 except Omicron variant requiring recent booster. New strains have shown higher viral loads and greater transmissibility with more severe disease presentations. Notably, COVID-19 has a peculiar prognosis in severe patients with iron dysregulation and hypoxia which is still poorly understood. Studies have shown abnormally low serum iron levels in severe infection but a high iron overload in lung fibrotic tissue. Data from our in-silico structural analysis of the spike protein sequence along with host proteolysis processing suggests that the viral spike protein fragment mimics Hepcidin and is resistant to the major human proteases. This functional spike-derived peptide dubbed "Covidin" thus may be intricately involved with host ferroportin binding and internalization leading to dysregulated host iron metabolism. Here, we propose the possible role of this potentially allogenic mimetic hormone corresponding to severe COVID-19 immunopathology and illustrate that this molecular mimicry is responsible for a major pathway associated with severe disease status. Furthermore, through 3D molecular modeling and docking followed by MD simulation validation, we have unraveled the likely role of Covidin in iron dysregulation in COVID-19 patients. Our meta-analysis suggests the Hepcidin mimetic mechanism is highly conserved among its host range as well as among all new variants to date including Omicron. Extensive analysis of current mutations revealed that new variants are becoming alarmingly more resistant to selective human proteases associated with host defense.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yash Gupta
- Infectious DiseasesMayo ClinicJacksonvilleFloridaUSA
| | - Dawid Maciorowski
- School of Medicine and Public HealthUniversity of Wisconsin‐MadisonMadisonWisconsinUSA
| | - Brian Medernach
- Department of MedicineLoyola University Medical CenterChicagoIllinoisUSA
| | - Daniel P. Becker
- Department of Chemistry and BiochemistryLoyola University ChicagoChicagoIllinoisUSA
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18
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Ling J, Li J, Khan A, Lundkvist Å, Li JP. Is heparan sulfate a target for inhibition of RNA virus infection? Am J Physiol Cell Physiol 2022; 322:C605-C613. [PMID: 35196165 PMCID: PMC8977144 DOI: 10.1152/ajpcell.00028.2022] [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: 01/23/2023]
Abstract
Heparan sulfate (HS) is a linear polysaccharide attached to a core protein, forming heparan sulfate proteoglycans (HSPGs) that are ubiquitously expressed on the surface of almost all mammalian cells and the extracellular matrix. HS orchestrates the binding of various signal molecules to their receptors, thus, regulating many biological processes, including homeostasis, metabolism, and various pathological processes. Due to its wide distribution and negatively charged properties, HS is exploited by many viruses as a co-factor to attach to host cells. Therefore, inhibition of the interaction between virus and HS is proposed as a promising approach to mitigate viral infection, including SARS-CoV-2. In this review, we summarize the interaction manners of HS with viruses with focus on significant pathogenic RNA viruses, including alphaviruses, flaviviruses, and coronaviruses. We also provide an overview of the challenges we may face when using HS-mimetics as antivirals for clinical treatment. More studies are needed to provide a further understanding of the interplay between HS and viruses both in vitro and in vivo, which will favor the development of specific antiviral inhibitors.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jiaxin Ling
- Department of Medical Biochemistry and Microbiology & The Biomedical Center; Zoonosis Science Center, University of Uppsala, Uppsala, Sweden.,Zoonosis Science Center, University of Uppsala, Uppsala, Sweden
| | - Jinlin Li
- Department of Medical Biochemistry and Microbiology & The Biomedical Center; Zoonosis Science Center, University of Uppsala, Uppsala, Sweden
| | - Asifa Khan
- Department of Medical Biochemistry and Microbiology & The Biomedical Center; Zoonosis Science Center, University of Uppsala, Uppsala, Sweden
| | - Åke Lundkvist
- Department of Medical Biochemistry and Microbiology & The Biomedical Center; Zoonosis Science Center, University of Uppsala, Uppsala, Sweden.,Zoonosis Science Center, University of Uppsala, Uppsala, Sweden
| | - Jin-Ping Li
- Department of Medical Biochemistry and Microbiology & The Biomedical Center; Zoonosis Science Center, University of Uppsala, Uppsala, Sweden.,SciLifeLab Uppsala, University of Uppsala, Uppsala, Sweden
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19
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Safety and Pharmacokinetics of Intranasally Administered Heparin. Pharm Res 2022; 39:541-551. [PMID: 35237922 PMCID: PMC8890767 DOI: 10.1007/s11095-022-03191-4] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/13/2021] [Accepted: 02/07/2022] [Indexed: 01/12/2023]
Abstract
PURPOSE Intranasally administered unfractionated heparin (UFH) and other sulfated polysaccharides are potential prophylactics for COVID-19. The purpose of this research was to measure the safety and pharmacokinetics of clearance of intranasally administered UFH solution from the nasal cavity. METHODS Double-blinded daily intranasal dosing in C57Bl6 mice with four doses (60 ng to 60 μg) of UFH was carried out for fourteen consecutive days, with both blood coagulation measurements and subject adverse event monitoring. The pharmacokinetics of fluorescent-labeled UFH clearance from the nasal cavity were measured in mice by in vivo imaging. Intranasal UFH at 2000 U/day solution with nasal spray device was tested for safety in a small number of healthy human subjects. RESULTS UFH showed no evidence of toxicity in mice at any dose measured. No significant changes were observed in activated partial thromboplastin time (aPTT), platelet count, or frequency of minor irritant events over vehicle-only control. Human subjects showed no significant changes in aPTT time, international normalized ratio (INR), or platelet count over baseline measurements. No serious adverse events were observed. In vivo imaging in a mouse model showed a single phase clearance of UFH from the nasal cavity. After 12 h, 3.2% of the administered UFH remained in the nasal cavity, decaying to background levels by 48 h. CONCLUSIONS UFH showed no toxic effects for extended daily intranasal dosing in mice as well as humans. The clearance kinetics of intranasal heparin solution from the nasal cavity indicates potentially protective levels for up to 12 h after dosing.
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20
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Ray B, Ali I, Jana S, Mukherjee S, Pal S, Ray S, Schütz M, Marschall M. Antiviral Strategies Using Natural Source-Derived Sulfated Polysaccharides in the Light of the COVID-19 Pandemic and Major Human Pathogenic Viruses. Viruses 2021; 14:35. [PMID: 35062238 PMCID: PMC8781365 DOI: 10.3390/v14010035] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/21/2021] [Revised: 12/19/2021] [Accepted: 12/20/2021] [Indexed: 12/14/2022] Open
Abstract
Only a mere fraction of the huge variety of human pathogenic viruses can be targeted by the currently available spectrum of antiviral drugs. The severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2 (SARS-CoV-2) outbreak has highlighted the urgent need for molecules that can be deployed quickly to treat novel, developing or re-emerging viral infections. Sulfated polysaccharides are found on the surfaces of both the susceptible host cells and the majority of human viruses, and thus can play an important role during viral infection. Such polysaccharides widely occurring in natural sources, specifically those converted into sulfated varieties, have already proved to possess a high level and sometimes also broad-spectrum antiviral activity. This antiviral potency can be determined through multifold molecular pathways, which in many cases have low profiles of cytotoxicity. Consequently, several new polysaccharide-derived drugs are currently being investigated in clinical settings. We reviewed the present status of research on sulfated polysaccharide-based antiviral agents, their structural characteristics, structure-activity relationships, and the potential of clinical application. Furthermore, the molecular mechanisms of sulfated polysaccharides involved in viral infection or in antiviral activity, respectively, are discussed, together with a focus on the emerging methodology contributing to polysaccharide-based drug development.
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Affiliation(s)
- Bimalendu Ray
- Department of Chemistry, The University of Burdwan, Burdwan 713104, West Bengal, India; (I.A.); (S.J.); (S.M.); (S.P.)
| | - Imran Ali
- Department of Chemistry, The University of Burdwan, Burdwan 713104, West Bengal, India; (I.A.); (S.J.); (S.M.); (S.P.)
| | - Subrata Jana
- Department of Chemistry, The University of Burdwan, Burdwan 713104, West Bengal, India; (I.A.); (S.J.); (S.M.); (S.P.)
| | - Shuvam Mukherjee
- Department of Chemistry, The University of Burdwan, Burdwan 713104, West Bengal, India; (I.A.); (S.J.); (S.M.); (S.P.)
| | - Saikat Pal
- Department of Chemistry, The University of Burdwan, Burdwan 713104, West Bengal, India; (I.A.); (S.J.); (S.M.); (S.P.)
| | - Sayani Ray
- Department of Chemistry, The University of Burdwan, Burdwan 713104, West Bengal, India; (I.A.); (S.J.); (S.M.); (S.P.)
| | - Martin Schütz
- Institute for Clinical and Molecular Virology, Friedrich-Alexander University (FAU) of Erlangen-Nürnberg, 91054 Erlangen, Germany
| | - Manfred Marschall
- Institute for Clinical and Molecular Virology, Friedrich-Alexander University (FAU) of Erlangen-Nürnberg, 91054 Erlangen, Germany
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21
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Zheng Y, Zhao J, Li J, Guo Z, Sheng J, Ye X, Jin G, Wang C, Chai W, Yan J, Liu D, Liang X. SARS-CoV-2 spike protein causes blood coagulation and thrombosis by competitive binding to heparan sulfate. Int J Biol Macromol 2021; 193:1124-1129. [PMID: 34743814 PMCID: PMC8553634 DOI: 10.1016/j.ijbiomac.2021.10.112] [Citation(s) in RCA: 17] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/02/2021] [Revised: 10/13/2021] [Accepted: 10/16/2021] [Indexed: 12/24/2022]
Abstract
Thrombotic complication has been an important symptom in critically ill patients with COVID-19. It has not been clear whether the virus spike (S) protein can directly induce blood coagulation in addition to inflammation. Heparan sulfate (HS)/heparin, a key factor in coagulation process, was found to bind SARS-CoV-2 S protein with high affinity. Herein, we found that the S protein can competitively inhibit the bindings of antithrombin and heparin cofactor II to heparin/HS, causing abnormal increase in thrombin activity. SARS-CoV-2 S protein at a similar concentration (~10 μg/mL) as the viral load in critically ill patients can cause directly blood coagulation and thrombosis in zebrafish model. Furthermore, exogenous heparin/HS can significantly reduce coagulation caused by S protein, pointing to a potential new direction to elucidate the etiology of the virus and provide fundamental support for anticoagulant therapy especially for the COVID-19 critically ill patients.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yi Zheng
- CAS Key Laboratory of Separation Science for Analytical Chemistry, Dalian Institute of Chemical Physics, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Dalian 116023, China
| | - Jinxiang Zhao
- Nantong Laboratory of Development and Diseases, School of Life Science, Co-innovation Center of Neuroregeneration, Key Laboratory of Neuroregeneration of Jiangsu, Ministry of Education, Nantong University, Nantong 226019, China
| | - Jiaqi Li
- CAS Key Laboratory of Separation Science for Analytical Chemistry, Dalian Institute of Chemical Physics, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Dalian 116023, China
| | - Zhimou Guo
- CAS Key Laboratory of Separation Science for Analytical Chemistry, Dalian Institute of Chemical Physics, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Dalian 116023, China
| | - Jiajing Sheng
- Nantong Laboratory of Development and Diseases, School of Life Science, Co-innovation Center of Neuroregeneration, Key Laboratory of Neuroregeneration of Jiangsu, Ministry of Education, Nantong University, Nantong 226019, China
| | - Xianlong Ye
- CAS Key Laboratory of Separation Science for Analytical Chemistry, Dalian Institute of Chemical Physics, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Dalian 116023, China
| | - Gaowa Jin
- CAS Key Laboratory of Separation Science for Analytical Chemistry, Dalian Institute of Chemical Physics, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Dalian 116023, China
| | - Chaoran Wang
- CAS Key Laboratory of Separation Science for Analytical Chemistry, Dalian Institute of Chemical Physics, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Dalian 116023, China
| | - Wengang Chai
- Glycosciences Laboratory, Faculty of Medicine, Imperial College London, Hammersmith Campus, London W12 0NN, United Kingdom
| | - Jingyu Yan
- CAS Key Laboratory of Separation Science for Analytical Chemistry, Dalian Institute of Chemical Physics, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Dalian 116023, China.
| | - Dong Liu
- Nantong Laboratory of Development and Diseases, School of Life Science, Co-innovation Center of Neuroregeneration, Key Laboratory of Neuroregeneration of Jiangsu, Ministry of Education, Nantong University, Nantong 226019, China.
| | - Xinmiao Liang
- CAS Key Laboratory of Separation Science for Analytical Chemistry, Dalian Institute of Chemical Physics, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Dalian 116023, China.
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22
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Dwivedi R, Samanta P, Sharma P, Zhang F, Mishra SK, Kucheryavy P, Kim SB, Aderibigbe AO, Linhardt RJ, Tandon R, Doerksen RJ, Pomin VH. Structural and kinetic analyses of holothurian sulfated glycans suggest potential treatment for SARS-CoV-2 infection. J Biol Chem 2021; 297:101207. [PMID: 34537241 PMCID: PMC8445769 DOI: 10.1016/j.jbc.2021.101207] [Citation(s) in RCA: 27] [Impact Index Per Article: 9.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/04/2021] [Revised: 09/13/2021] [Accepted: 09/15/2021] [Indexed: 01/11/2023] Open
Abstract
Certain sulfated glycans, including those from marine sources, can show potential effects against SARS-CoV-2. Here, a new fucosylated chondroitin sulfate (FucCS) from the sea cucumber Pentacta pygmaea (PpFucCS) (MW ∼10-60 kDa) was isolated and structurally characterized by NMR. PpFucCS is composed of {→3)-β-GalNAcX-(1→4)-β-GlcA-[(3→1)Y]-(1→}, where X = 4S (80%), 6S (10%) or nonsulfated (10%), Y = α-Fuc2,4S (40%), α-Fuc2,4S-(1→4)-α-Fuc (30%), or α-Fuc4S (30%), and S = SO3-. The anti-SARS-CoV-2 activity of PpFucCS and those of the FucCS and sulfated fucan isolated from Isostichopus badionotus (IbFucCS and IbSF) were compared with that of heparin. IC50 values demonstrated the activity of the three holothurian sulfated glycans to be ∼12 times more efficient than heparin, with no cytotoxic effects. The dissociation constant (KD) values obtained by surface plasmon resonance of the wildtype SARS-CoV-2 spike (S)-protein receptor-binding domain (RBD) and N501Y mutant RBD in interactions with the heparin-immobilized sensor chip were 94 and 1.8 × 103 nM, respectively. Competitive surface plasmon resonance inhibition analysis of PpFucCS, IbFucCS, and IbSF against heparin binding to wildtype S-protein showed IC50 values (in the nanomolar range) 6, 25, and 6 times more efficient than heparin, respectively. Data from computational simulations suggest an influence of the sulfation patterns of the Fuc units on hydrogen bonding with GlcA and that conformational change of some of the oligosaccharide structures occurs upon S-protein RBD binding. Compared with heparin, negligible anticoagulant action was observed for IbSF. Our results suggest that IbSF may represent a promising molecule for future investigations against SARS-CoV-2.
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Affiliation(s)
- Rohini Dwivedi
- Department of BioMolecular Sciences, University of Mississippi, Oxford, Mississippi, USA
| | - Priyanka Samanta
- Department of BioMolecular Sciences, University of Mississippi, Oxford, Mississippi, USA
| | - Poonam Sharma
- Department of Microbiology and Immunology, University of Mississippi Medical Center, Jackson, Mississippi, USA
| | - Fuming Zhang
- Center for Biotechnology and Interdisciplinary Studies, Rensselaer Polytechnic Institute, Troy, New York, USA
| | - Sushil K Mishra
- Department of BioMolecular Sciences, University of Mississippi, Oxford, Mississippi, USA
| | - Pavel Kucheryavy
- Department of BioMolecular Sciences, University of Mississippi, Oxford, Mississippi, USA
| | - Seon Beom Kim
- Department of BioMolecular Sciences, University of Mississippi, Oxford, Mississippi, USA
| | - AyoOluwa O Aderibigbe
- Department of BioMolecular Sciences, University of Mississippi, Oxford, Mississippi, USA
| | - Robert J Linhardt
- Center for Biotechnology and Interdisciplinary Studies, Rensselaer Polytechnic Institute, Troy, New York, USA
| | - Ritesh Tandon
- Department of Microbiology and Immunology, University of Mississippi Medical Center, Jackson, Mississippi, USA
| | - Robert J Doerksen
- Department of BioMolecular Sciences, University of Mississippi, Oxford, Mississippi, USA; Research Institute of Pharmaceutical Sciences, School of Pharmacy, University of Mississippi, Oxford, Mississippi, USA
| | - Vitor H Pomin
- Department of BioMolecular Sciences, University of Mississippi, Oxford, Mississippi, USA; Research Institute of Pharmaceutical Sciences, School of Pharmacy, University of Mississippi, Oxford, Mississippi, USA.
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23
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Harris HM, Boyet KL, Liu H, Dwivedi R, Ashpole NM, Tandon R, Bidwell GL, Cheng Z, Fassero LA, Yu CS, Pomin VH, Mitra D, Harrison KA, Dahl E, Gurley BJ, Kotha AK, Chougule MB, Sharp JS. Safety and Pharmacokinetics of Intranasally Administered Heparin.. [PMID: 35194614 PMCID: PMC8863150 DOI: 10.1101/2021.07.05.21259936] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/03/2022]
Abstract
Purpose Intranasally administered unfractionated heparin (UFH) and other sulfated polysaccharides are potential prophylactics for COVID-19. The purpose of this research was to measure the safety and pharmacokinetics of clearance of intranasally administered UFH solution from the nasal cavity. Methods Double-blinded daily intranasal dosing in C57Bl6 mice with four doses (60 ng to 60 μg) of UFH was carried out for fourteen consecutive days, with both blood coagulation measurements and subject adverse event monitoring. The pharmacokinetics of fluorescent-labeled UFH clearance from the nasal cavity were measured in mice by in vivo imaging. Intranasal UFH at 2000 U/day solution with nasal spray device was tested for safety in a small number of healthy human subjects. Results UFH showed no evidence of toxicity in mice at any dose measured. No significant changes were observed in activated partial thromboplastin time (aPTT), platelet count, or frequency of minor irritant events over vehicle-only control. Human subjects showed no significant changes in aPTT time, international normalized ratio (INR), or platelet count over baseline measurements. No serious adverse events were observed. In vivo imaging in a mouse model showed a single phase clearance of UFH from the nasal cavity. After 12 hours, 3.2% of the administered UFH remained in the nasal cavity, decaying to background levels by 48 hours. Conclusions UFH showed no toxic effects for extended daily intranasal dosing in mice as well as humans. The clearance kinetics of intranasal heparin solution from the nasal cavity indicates potentially protective levels for up to 12 hours after dosing.
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24
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Partridge LJ, Urwin L, Nicklin MJH, James DC, Green LR, Monk PN. ACE2-Independent Interaction of SARS-CoV-2 Spike Protein with Human Epithelial Cells Is Inhibited by Unfractionated Heparin. Cells 2021; 10:cells10061419. [PMID: 34200372 DOI: 10.1101/2020.05.21.107870] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/15/2021] [Revised: 05/26/2021] [Accepted: 06/04/2021] [Indexed: 05/23/2023] Open
Abstract
Coronaviruses such as SARS-CoV-2, which is responsible for COVID-19, depend on virus spike protein binding to host cell receptors to cause infection. The SARS-CoV-2 spike protein binds primarily to ACE2 on target cells and is then processed by membrane proteases, including TMPRSS2, leading to viral internalisation or fusion with the plasma membrane. It has been suggested, however, that receptors other than ACE2 may be involved in virus binding. We have investigated the interactions of recombinant versions of the spike protein with human epithelial cell lines that express low/very low levels of ACE2 and TMPRSS2 in a proxy assay for interaction with host cells. A tagged form of the spike protein containing the S1 and S2 regions bound in a temperature-dependent manner to all cell lines, whereas the S1 region alone and the receptor-binding domain (RBD) interacted only weakly. Spike protein associated with cells independently of ACE2 and TMPRSS2, while RBD required the presence of high levels of ACE2 for interaction. As the spike protein has previously been shown to bind heparin, a soluble glycosaminoglycan, we tested the effects of various heparins on ACE2-independent spike protein interaction with cells. Unfractionated heparin inhibited spike protein interaction with an IC50 value of <0.05 U/mL, whereas two low-molecular-weight heparins were less effective. A mutant form of the spike protein, lacking the arginine-rich putative furin cleavage site, interacted only weakly with cells and had a lower affinity for unfractionated and low-molecular-weight heparin than the wild-type spike protein. This suggests that the furin cleavage site might also be a heparin-binding site and potentially important for interactions with host cells. The glycosaminoglycans heparan sulphate and dermatan sulphate, but not chondroitin sulphate, also inhibited the binding of spike protein, indicating that it might bind to one or both of these glycosaminoglycans on the surface of target cells.
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Affiliation(s)
- Lynda J Partridge
- Department of Molecular Biology and Biotechnology, The University of Sheffield, Sheffield S10 2TN, UK
| | - Lucy Urwin
- Department of Infection, Immunity and Cardiovascular Disease, The University of Sheffield, Sheffield S10 2RX, UK
| | - Martin J H Nicklin
- Department of Infection, Immunity and Cardiovascular Disease, The University of Sheffield, Sheffield S10 2RX, UK
| | - David C James
- Department of Chemical and Biological Engineering, The University of Sheffield, Sheffield S1 4NL, UK
| | - Luke R Green
- Department of Infection, Immunity and Cardiovascular Disease, The University of Sheffield, Sheffield S10 2RX, UK
| | - Peter N Monk
- Department of Infection, Immunity and Cardiovascular Disease, The University of Sheffield, Sheffield S10 2RX, UK
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25
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Partridge LJ, Urwin L, Nicklin MJH, James DC, Green LR, Monk PN. ACE2-Independent Interaction of SARS-CoV-2 Spike Protein with Human Epithelial Cells Is Inhibited by Unfractionated Heparin. Cells 2021; 10:1419. [PMID: 34200372 PMCID: PMC8229176 DOI: 10.3390/cells10061419] [Citation(s) in RCA: 30] [Impact Index Per Article: 10.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/15/2021] [Revised: 05/26/2021] [Accepted: 06/04/2021] [Indexed: 12/12/2022] Open
Abstract
Coronaviruses such as SARS-CoV-2, which is responsible for COVID-19, depend on virus spike protein binding to host cell receptors to cause infection. The SARS-CoV-2 spike protein binds primarily to ACE2 on target cells and is then processed by membrane proteases, including TMPRSS2, leading to viral internalisation or fusion with the plasma membrane. It has been suggested, however, that receptors other than ACE2 may be involved in virus binding. We have investigated the interactions of recombinant versions of the spike protein with human epithelial cell lines that express low/very low levels of ACE2 and TMPRSS2 in a proxy assay for interaction with host cells. A tagged form of the spike protein containing the S1 and S2 regions bound in a temperature-dependent manner to all cell lines, whereas the S1 region alone and the receptor-binding domain (RBD) interacted only weakly. Spike protein associated with cells independently of ACE2 and TMPRSS2, while RBD required the presence of high levels of ACE2 for interaction. As the spike protein has previously been shown to bind heparin, a soluble glycosaminoglycan, we tested the effects of various heparins on ACE2-independent spike protein interaction with cells. Unfractionated heparin inhibited spike protein interaction with an IC50 value of <0.05 U/mL, whereas two low-molecular-weight heparins were less effective. A mutant form of the spike protein, lacking the arginine-rich putative furin cleavage site, interacted only weakly with cells and had a lower affinity for unfractionated and low-molecular-weight heparin than the wild-type spike protein. This suggests that the furin cleavage site might also be a heparin-binding site and potentially important for interactions with host cells. The glycosaminoglycans heparan sulphate and dermatan sulphate, but not chondroitin sulphate, also inhibited the binding of spike protein, indicating that it might bind to one or both of these glycosaminoglycans on the surface of target cells.
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Affiliation(s)
- Lynda J. Partridge
- Department of Molecular Biology and Biotechnology, The University of Sheffield, Sheffield S10 2TN, UK;
| | - Lucy Urwin
- Department of Infection, Immunity and Cardiovascular Disease, The University of Sheffield, Sheffield S10 2RX, UK; (L.U.); (M.J.H.N.); (L.R.G.)
| | - Martin J. H. Nicklin
- Department of Infection, Immunity and Cardiovascular Disease, The University of Sheffield, Sheffield S10 2RX, UK; (L.U.); (M.J.H.N.); (L.R.G.)
| | - David C. James
- Department of Chemical and Biological Engineering, The University of Sheffield, Sheffield S1 4NL, UK;
| | - Luke R. Green
- Department of Infection, Immunity and Cardiovascular Disease, The University of Sheffield, Sheffield S10 2RX, UK; (L.U.); (M.J.H.N.); (L.R.G.)
| | - Peter N. Monk
- Department of Infection, Immunity and Cardiovascular Disease, The University of Sheffield, Sheffield S10 2RX, UK; (L.U.); (M.J.H.N.); (L.R.G.)
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