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Cristovão-Silva AC, Brelaz-de-Castro MCA, Dionisio da Silva E, Leite ACL, Santiago LBAA, Conceição JMD, da Silva Tiburcio R, de Santana DP, Bedor DCG, de Carvalho BÍV, Ferreira LFGR, de Freitas E Silva R, Alves Pereira VR, Hernandes MZ. Trypanosoma cruzi killing and immune response boosting by novel phenoxyhydrazine-thiazole against Chagas disease. Exp Parasitol 2024; 261:108749. [PMID: 38593864 DOI: 10.1016/j.exppara.2024.108749] [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: 10/04/2023] [Revised: 03/23/2024] [Accepted: 04/06/2024] [Indexed: 04/11/2024]
Abstract
Trypanosoma cruzi (T. cruzi) causes Chagas, which is a neglected tropical disease (NTD). WHO estimates that 6 to 7 million people are infected worldwide. Current treatment is done with benznidazole (BZN), which is very toxic and effective only in the acute phase of the disease. In this work, we designed, synthesized, and characterized thirteen new phenoxyhydrazine-thiazole compounds and applied molecular docking and in vitro methods to investigate cell cytotoxicity, trypanocide activity, nitric oxide (NO) production, cell death, and immunomodulation. We observed a higher predicted affinity of the compounds for the squalene synthase and 14-alpha demethylase enzymes of T. cruzi. Moreover, the compounds displayed a higher predicted affinity for human TLR2 and TLR4, were mildly toxic in vitro for most mammalian cell types tested, and LIZ531 (IC50 2.8 μM) was highly toxic for epimastigotes, LIZ311 (IC50 8.6 μM) for trypomastigotes, and LIZ331 (IC50 1.9 μM) for amastigotes. We observed that LIZ311 (IC50 2.5 μM), LIZ431 (IC50 4.1 μM) and LIZ531 (IC50 5 μM) induced 200 μg/mL of NO and JM14 induced NO production in three different concentrations tested. The compound LIZ331 induced the production of TNF and IL-6. LIZ311 induced the secretion of TNF, IFNγ, IL-2, IL-4, IL-10, and IL-17, cell death by apoptosis, decreased acidic compartment formation, and induced changes in the mitochondrial membrane potential. Taken together, LIZ311 is a promising anti-T. cruzi compound is not toxic to mammalian cells and has increased antiparasitic activity and immunomodulatory properties.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ana Catarina Cristovão-Silva
- Laboratory of Immunopathology and Molecular Biology, Aggeu Magalhães Institute, Oswaldo Cruz Foundation, 50670-42, Recife, Pernambuco, Brazil
| | - Maria Carolina Accioly Brelaz-de-Castro
- Laboratory of Immunopathology and Molecular Biology, Aggeu Magalhães Institute, Oswaldo Cruz Foundation, 50670-42, Recife, Pernambuco, Brazil; Laboratory of Parasitology, Vitória Academic Center, Federal University of Pernambuco, 55608-680, Vitória de Santo Antão, Pernambuco, Brazil
| | - Elis Dionisio da Silva
- Laboratory of Immunopathology and Molecular Biology, Aggeu Magalhães Institute, Oswaldo Cruz Foundation, 50670-42, Recife, Pernambuco, Brazil
| | - Ana Cristina Lima Leite
- Laboratory of Planning and Synthesis in Medicinal Chemistry, Pharmaceutical Sciences Department, Federal University of Pernambuco, 50740-520, Recife, Pernambuco, Brazil
| | - Lizandra Beatriz Amorim Alves Santiago
- Laboratory of Planning and Synthesis in Medicinal Chemistry, Pharmaceutical Sciences Department, Federal University of Pernambuco, 50740-520, Recife, Pernambuco, Brazil
| | - Juliana Maria da Conceição
- Laboratory of Planning and Synthesis in Medicinal Chemistry, Pharmaceutical Sciences Department, Federal University of Pernambuco, 50740-520, Recife, Pernambuco, Brazil
| | - Robert da Silva Tiburcio
- Laboratory of Planning and Synthesis in Medicinal Chemistry, Pharmaceutical Sciences Department, Federal University of Pernambuco, 50740-520, Recife, Pernambuco, Brazil
| | - Davi Pereira de Santana
- Pharmaceutical and Cosmetic Development Center (NUDFAC), Department of Pharmaceutical Science, Federal University of Pernambuco, Recife, PE, Brazil
| | - Danilo Cesar Galindo Bedor
- Pharmaceutical and Cosmetic Development Center (NUDFAC), Department of Pharmaceutical Science, Federal University of Pernambuco, Recife, PE, Brazil
| | - Breno Ítalo Valença de Carvalho
- Pharmaceutical and Cosmetic Development Center (NUDFAC), Department of Pharmaceutical Science, Federal University of Pernambuco, Recife, PE, Brazil
| | - Luiz Felipe Gomes Rebello Ferreira
- Laboratory of Theoretical and Medicinal Chemistry, Pharmaceutical Sciences Department, Federal University of Pernambuco, 50740-520, Recife, Pernambuco, Brazil
| | - Rafael de Freitas E Silva
- Laboratory of Immunopathology and Molecular Biology, Aggeu Magalhães Institute, Oswaldo Cruz Foundation, 50670-42, Recife, Pernambuco, Brazil.
| | - Valéria Rêgo Alves Pereira
- Laboratory of Immunopathology and Molecular Biology, Aggeu Magalhães Institute, Oswaldo Cruz Foundation, 50670-42, Recife, Pernambuco, Brazil.
| | - Marcelo Zaldini Hernandes
- Laboratory of Theoretical and Medicinal Chemistry, Pharmaceutical Sciences Department, Federal University of Pernambuco, 50740-520, Recife, Pernambuco, Brazil.
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Torchelsen FKVDS, Mazzeti AL, Mosqueira VCF. Drugs in preclinical and early clinical development for the treatment of Chagas´s disease: the current status. Expert Opin Investig Drugs 2024:1-16. [PMID: 38686546 DOI: 10.1080/13543784.2024.2349289] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/09/2024] [Accepted: 04/25/2024] [Indexed: 05/02/2024]
Abstract
INTRODUCTION Chagas disease is spreading faster than expected in different countries, and little progress has been reported in the discovery of new drugs to combat Trypanosoma cruzi infection in humans. Recent clinical trials have ended with small hope. The pathophysiology of this neglected disease and the genetic diversity of parasites are exceptionally complex. The only two drugs available to treat patients are far from being safe, and their efficacy in the chronic phase is still unsatisfactory. AREAS COVERED This review offers a comprehensive examination and critical review of data reported in the last 10 years, and it is focused on findings of clinical trials and data acquired in vivo in preclinical studies. EXPERT OPINION The in vivo investigations classically in mice and dog models are also challenging and time-consuming to attest cure for infection. Poorly standardized protocols, availability of diagnosis methods and disease progression markers, the use of different T. cruzi strains with variable benznidazole sensitivities, and animals in different acute and chronic phases of infection contribute to it. More synchronized efforts between research groups in this field are required to put in evidence new promising substances, drug combinations, repurposing strategies, and new pharmaceutical formulations to impact the therapy.
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Affiliation(s)
- Fernanda Karoline Vieira da Silva Torchelsen
- School of Pharmacy, Federal University of Ouro Preto, Ouro Preto, Brazil
- Post-Graduation Program in Pharmaceutical Sciences, Federal University of Minas Gerais, Belo Horizonte, Brazil
| | - Ana Lia Mazzeti
- Department of Biomedical Sciences and Health, Academic Unit of Passos, University of Minas Gerais State, Passos, Brazil
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Kwakye-Nuako G, Middleton CE, McCall LI. Small molecule mediators of host-T. cruzi-environment interactions in Chagas disease. PLoS Pathog 2024; 20:e1012012. [PMID: 38457443 PMCID: PMC10923493 DOI: 10.1371/journal.ppat.1012012] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 03/10/2024] Open
Abstract
Small molecules (less than 1,500 Da) include major biological signals that mediate host-pathogen-microbiome communication. They also include key intermediates of metabolism and critical cellular building blocks. Pathogens present with unique nutritional needs that restrict pathogen colonization or promote tissue damage. In parallel, parts of host metabolism are responsive to immune signaling and regulated by immune cascades. These interactions can trigger both adaptive and maladaptive metabolic changes in the host, with microbiome-derived signals also contributing to disease progression. In turn, targeting pathogen metabolic needs or maladaptive host metabolic changes is an important strategy to develop new treatments for infectious diseases. Trypanosoma cruzi is a single-celled eukaryotic pathogen and the causative agent of Chagas disease, a neglected tropical disease associated with cardiac and intestinal dysfunction. Here, we discuss the role of small molecules during T. cruzi infection in its vector and in the mammalian host. We integrate these findings to build a theoretical interpretation of how maladaptive metabolic changes drive Chagas disease and extrapolate on how these findings can guide drug development.
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Affiliation(s)
- Godwin Kwakye-Nuako
- Department of Chemistry and Biochemistry, University of Oklahoma, Norman, Oklahoma, United States of America
- Department of Biomedical Sciences, School of Allied Health Sciences, College of Health and Allied Sciences, University of Cape Coast, Cape Coast, Ghana
| | - Caitlyn E. Middleton
- Department of Chemistry and Biochemistry, San Diego State University, San Diego, California, United States of America
| | - Laura-Isobel McCall
- Department of Chemistry and Biochemistry, University of Oklahoma, Norman, Oklahoma, United States of America
- Department of Chemistry and Biochemistry, San Diego State University, San Diego, California, United States of America
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Zingales B, Macedo AM. Fifteen Years after the Definition of Trypanosoma cruzi DTUs: What Have We Learned? Life (Basel) 2023; 13:2339. [PMID: 38137940 PMCID: PMC10744745 DOI: 10.3390/life13122339] [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: 10/30/2023] [Revised: 12/04/2023] [Accepted: 12/06/2023] [Indexed: 12/24/2023] Open
Abstract
Trypanosoma cruzi, the protozoan causative of Chagas disease (ChD), exhibits striking genetic and phenotypic intraspecific diversity, along with ecoepidemiological complexity. Human-pathogen interactions lead to distinct clinical presentations of ChD. In 2009, an international consensus classified T. cruzi strains into six discrete typing units (DTUs), TcI to TcVI, later including TcBat, and proposed reproducible genotyping schemes for DTU identification. This article aims to review the impact of classifying T. cruzi strains into DTUs on our understanding of biological, ecoepidemiological, and pathogenic aspects of T. cruzi. We will explore the likely origin of DTUs and the intrinsic characteristics of each group of strains concerning genome organization, genomics, and susceptibility to drugs used in ChD treatment. We will also provide an overview of the association of DTUs with mammalian reservoirs, and summarize the geographic distribution, and the clinical implications, of prevalent specific DTUs in ChD patients. Throughout this review, we will emphasize the crucial roles of both parasite and human genetics in defining ChD pathogenesis and chemotherapy outcome.
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Affiliation(s)
- Bianca Zingales
- Departamento de Bioquímica, Instituto de Química, Universidade de São Paulo, São Paulo 05508-900, São Paulo, Brazil
| | - Andréa M. Macedo
- Departamento de Bioquímica e Imunologia, Instituto de Ciências Biológicas, Universidade Federal de Minas Gerais, Belo Horizonte 31270-901, Minas Gerais, Brazil;
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García-Torres I, De la Mora-De la Mora I, López-Velázquez G, Cabrera N, Flores-López LA, Becker I, Herrera-López J, Hernández R, Pérez-Montfort R, Enríquez-Flores S. Repurposing of rabeprazole as an anti- Trypanosoma cruzi drug that targets cellular triosephosphate isomerase. J Enzyme Inhib Med Chem 2023; 38:2231169. [PMID: 37401012 PMCID: PMC10351538 DOI: 10.1080/14756366.2023.2231169] [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: 04/18/2023] [Revised: 06/23/2023] [Accepted: 06/25/2023] [Indexed: 07/05/2023] Open
Abstract
Trypanosoma cruzi is the causative agent of American trypanosomiasis, which mainly affects populations in Latin America. Benznidazole is used to control the disease, with severe effects in patients receiving this chemotherapy. Previous studies have demonstrated the inhibition of triosephosphate isomerase from T. cruzi, but cellular enzyme inhibition has yet to be established. This study demonstrates that rabeprazole inhibits both cell viability and triosephosphate isomerase activity in T. cruzi epimastigotes. Our results show that rabeprazole has an IC50 of 0.4 µM, which is 14.5 times more effective than benznidazole. Additionally, we observed increased levels of methyl-glyoxal and advanced glycation end products after the inhibition of cellular triosephosphate isomerase by rabeprazole. Finally, we demonstrate that the inactivation mechanisms of rabeprazole on triosephosphate isomerase of T. cruzi can be achieved through the derivatization of three of its four cysteine residues. These results indicate that rabeprazole is a promising candidate against American trypanosomiasis.
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Affiliation(s)
- Itzhel García-Torres
- Laboratorio de Biomoléculas y Salud Infantil, Instituto Nacional de Pediatría, CDMX, México
| | | | | | - Nallely Cabrera
- Departamento de Bioquímica y Biología Estructural, Instituto de Fisiología Celular, Universidad Nacional Autónoma de México, CDMX, México
| | - Luis Antonio Flores-López
- CONAHCYT Instituto Nacional de Pediatría, Laboratorio de Biomoléculas y Salud Infantil, CDMX, México
| | - Ingeborg Becker
- Centro de Medicina Tropical, Unidad de Investigación en Medicina Experimental, Facultad de Medicina, Universidad Nacional Autónoma de México, CDMX, México
| | - Juliana Herrera-López
- Departamento de Biología Molecular y Biotecnología, Instituto de Investigaciones Biomédicas, Universidad Nacional Autónoma de México, CDMX, México
| | - Roberto Hernández
- Departamento de Biología Molecular y Biotecnología, Instituto de Investigaciones Biomédicas, Universidad Nacional Autónoma de México, CDMX, México
| | - Ruy Pérez-Montfort
- Departamento de Bioquímica y Biología Estructural, Instituto de Fisiología Celular, Universidad Nacional Autónoma de México, CDMX, México
| | - Sergio Enríquez-Flores
- Laboratorio de Biomoléculas y Salud Infantil, Instituto Nacional de Pediatría, CDMX, México
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Jayawardhana S, Ward AI, Francisco AF, Lewis MD, Taylor MC, Kelly JM, Olmo F. Benznidazole treatment leads to DNA damage in Trypanosoma cruzi and the persistence of rare widely dispersed non-replicative amastigotes in mice. PLoS Pathog 2023; 19:e1011627. [PMID: 37956215 PMCID: PMC10681306 DOI: 10.1371/journal.ppat.1011627] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/22/2023] [Revised: 11/27/2023] [Accepted: 10/30/2023] [Indexed: 11/15/2023] Open
Abstract
Benznidazole is the front-line drug used to treat infections with Trypanosoma cruzi, the causative agent of Chagas disease. However, for reasons that are unknown, treatment failures are common. When we examined parasites that survived benznidazole treatment in mice using highly sensitive in vivo and ex vivo bioluminescence imaging, we found that recrudescence is not due to persistence of parasites in a specific organ or tissue that preferentially protects them from drug activity. Surviving parasites are widely distributed and located in host cells where the vast majority contained only one or two amastigotes. Therefore, infection relapse does not arise from a small number of intact large nests. Rather, persisters are either survivors of intracellular populations where co-located parasites have been killed, or amastigotes in single/low-level infected cells exist in a state where they are less susceptible to benznidazole. To better assess the nature of parasite persisters, we exposed infected mammalian cell monolayers to a benznidazole regimen that reduces the intracellular amastigote population to <1% of the pre-treatment level. Of host cells that remained infected, as with the situation in vivo, the vast majority contained only one or two surviving intracellular amastigotes. Analysis, based on non-incorporation of the thymidine analogue EdU, revealed these surviving parasites to be in a transient non-replicative state. Furthermore, treatment with benznidazole led to widespread parasite DNA damage. When the small number of parasites which survive in mice after non-curative treatment were assessed using EdU labelling, this revealed that these persisters were also initially non-replicative. A possible explanation could be that triggering of the T. cruzi DNA damage response pathway by the activity of benznidazole metabolites results in exit from the cell cycle as parasites attempt DNA repair, and that metabolic changes associated with non-proliferation act to reduce drug susceptibility. Alternatively, a small percentage of the parasite population may pre-exist in this non-replicative state prior to treatment.
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Affiliation(s)
- Shiromani Jayawardhana
- Department of Infection Biology, London School of Hygiene and Tropical Medicine, London, United Kingdom
| | - Alexander I. Ward
- Department of Infection Biology, London School of Hygiene and Tropical Medicine, London, United Kingdom
| | - Amanda F. Francisco
- Department of Infection Biology, London School of Hygiene and Tropical Medicine, London, United Kingdom
| | - Michael D. Lewis
- Department of Infection Biology, London School of Hygiene and Tropical Medicine, London, United Kingdom
| | - Martin C. Taylor
- Department of Infection Biology, London School of Hygiene and Tropical Medicine, London, United Kingdom
| | - John M. Kelly
- Department of Infection Biology, London School of Hygiene and Tropical Medicine, London, United Kingdom
| | - Francisco Olmo
- Department of Infection Biology, London School of Hygiene and Tropical Medicine, London, United Kingdom
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7
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Lemos JM, Brito da Silva MF, Dos Santos Carvalho AM, Vicente Gil HP, Fiaia Costa VA, Andrade CH, Braga RC, Grellier P, Muratov EN, Charneau S, Moreira-Filho JT, Dourado Bastos IM, Neves BJ. Multitask learning-driven identification of novel antitrypanosomal compounds. Future Med Chem 2023; 15:1449-1467. [PMID: 37701989 DOI: 10.4155/fmc-2023-0074] [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] [Indexed: 09/14/2023] Open
Abstract
Background: Chagas disease and human African trypanosomiasis cause substantial death and morbidity, particularly in low- and middle-income countries, making the need for novel drugs urgent. Methodology & results: Therefore, an explainable multitask pipeline to profile the activity of compounds against three trypanosomes (Trypanosoma brucei brucei, Trypanosoma brucei rhodesiense and Trypanosoma cruzi) were created. These models successfully discovered four new experimental hits (LC-3, LC-4, LC-6 and LC-15). Among them, LC-6 showed promising results, with IC50 values ranging 0.01-0.072 μM and selectivity indices >10,000. Conclusion: These results demonstrate that the multitask protocol offers predictivity and interpretability in the virtual screening of new antitrypanosomal compounds and has the potential to improve hit rates in Chagas and human African trypanosomiasis projects.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jade Milhomem Lemos
- LabChem - Laboratory of Cheminformatics, Faculty of Pharmacy, Federal University of Goiás, Goiânia,74605-170, GO, Brazil
| | - Meryck Felipe Brito da Silva
- LabChem - Laboratory of Cheminformatics, Faculty of Pharmacy, Federal University of Goiás, Goiânia,74605-170, GO, Brazil
| | - Alexandra Maria Dos Santos Carvalho
- Pathogen-Host Interface Laboratory, Department of Cell Biology, Institute of Biological Sciences, University of Brasilia, Brasilia, 70910-900, DF, Brazil
| | - Henric Pietro Vicente Gil
- LabChem - Laboratory of Cheminformatics, Faculty of Pharmacy, Federal University of Goiás, Goiânia,74605-170, GO, Brazil
| | - Vinícius Alexandre Fiaia Costa
- LabChem - Laboratory of Cheminformatics, Faculty of Pharmacy, Federal University of Goiás, Goiânia,74605-170, GO, Brazil
| | - Carolina Horta Andrade
- LabMol - Laboratory for Molecular Modeling & Drug Design, Faculty of Pharmacy, Federal University of Goiás, Goiânia, 74605-170, GO, Brazil
| | - Rodolpho Campos Braga
- InsilicAll Ltda, Av. Eng. Luis Carlos Berrini,1748 - Itaim Bibi, 04571-010, Sao Paulo, SP, Brazil
| | - Philippe Grellier
- UMR 7245 Molécules de Communication et Adaptation des Micro-organismes, Muséum National d'Histoire Naturelle, Équipe Parasites et Protistes Libres, Paris, 0575231, France
| | - Eugene N Muratov
- Laboratory for Molecular Modeling, UNC Eshelman School of Pharmacy, University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill, Chapel Hill, 27599, NC, USA
- Department of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Federal University of Paraiba, Joao Pessoa, 58059-900, PB, Brazil
| | - Sébastien Charneau
- Department of Cell Biology, Laboratory of Biochemistry & Protein Chemistry, Institute of Biological Sciences, University of Brasilia, Brasilia, 70910-900, DF, Brazil
| | - José Teófilo Moreira-Filho
- LabMol - Laboratory for Molecular Modeling & Drug Design, Faculty of Pharmacy, Federal University of Goiás, Goiânia, 74605-170, GO, Brazil
| | - Izabela Marques Dourado Bastos
- Pathogen-Host Interface Laboratory, Department of Cell Biology, Institute of Biological Sciences, University of Brasilia, Brasilia, 70910-900, DF, Brazil
| | - Bruno Junior Neves
- LabChem - Laboratory of Cheminformatics, Faculty of Pharmacy, Federal University of Goiás, Goiânia,74605-170, GO, Brazil
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Gonçalves-Santos E, Caldas IS, Fernandes VÂ, Franco LL, Pelozo MF, Feltrim F, Maciel JS, Machado JVC, Gonçalves RV, Novaes RD. Pharmacological potential of new metronidazole/eugenol/dihydroeugenol hybrids against Trypanosoma cruzi in vitro and in vivo. Int Immunopharmacol 2023; 121:110416. [PMID: 37295025 DOI: 10.1016/j.intimp.2023.110416] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/21/2023] [Revised: 05/17/2023] [Accepted: 05/30/2023] [Indexed: 06/11/2023]
Abstract
AIMS From well-delimited immunomodulatory, redox and antimicrobial properties; metronidazole and eugenol were used as structural platforms to assembly two new molecular hybrids (AD06 and AD07), whose therapeutic relevance was analyzed on T. cruzi infection in vitro and in vivo. METHODS Non-infected, T. cruzi-infected H9c2 cardiomyocytes, and mice non-treated and treated with vehicle, benznidazole (Bz - reference drug), AD06 and AD07 were investigated. Parasitological, prooxidant, antioxidant, microstructural, immunological, and hepatic function markers were analyzed. RESULTS Our findings indicated that in addition to having a direct antiparasitic effect on T. cruzi, metronidazole/eugenol hybrids (especially AD07) attenuated cellular parasitism, reactive species biosynthesis and oxidative stress in infected cardiomyocytes in vitro. Although AD06 and AD07 exerted no relevant impact on antioxidant enzymes activity (CAT, SOD, GR and GPx) in host cells, these drugs (especially AD07) attenuated trypanothione reductase activity in T. cruzi, which increased parasite's susceptibility to in vitro pro-oxidant challenge. AD06 and AD07 were well tolerated and do not determine humoral response suppression, mortality (100 % survival) or hepatotoxicity in mice, as indicated by transaminases plasma levels. AD07 also induced relevant in vivo antiparasitic and cardioprotective effects, attenuating parasitemia, cardiac parasite load and myocarditis in T. cruzi-infected mice. Although this cardioprotective response is potentially related to AD07 antiparasitic effect, a direct anti-inflammatory potential of this molecular hybrid cannot be ruled out. CONCLUSION Taken together, our findings indicated that the new molecular hybrid AD07 stood out as a potentially relevant candidate for the development of new, safe and more effective drug regimens for T. cruzi infection treatment.
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Affiliation(s)
- Elda Gonçalves-Santos
- Programa de Pós-Graduação em Biociências Aplicadas à Saúde, Universidade Federal de Alfenas, Alfenas 37130-001, Minas Gerais, Brazil
| | - Ivo S Caldas
- Programa de Pós-Graduação em Ciências Biológicas, Universidade Federal de Alfenas, Alfenas 37130-001, Minas Gerais, Brazil; Instituto de Ciências Biomédicas, Universidade Federal de Alfenas, Alfenas 37130-001, Minas Gerais, Brazil
| | - Valquiria  Fernandes
- Programa de Pós-Graduação em Ciências Farmacêuticas, Universidade Federal de Alfenas, Alfenas 37130-001, Minas Gerais, Brazil
| | - Lucas L Franco
- Programa de Pós-Graduação em Ciências Farmacêuticas, Universidade Federal de Alfenas, Alfenas 37130-001, Minas Gerais, Brazil; Faculdade de Ciências Farmacêuticas, Departamento de Alimentos e Medicamentos, Universidade Federal de Alfenas, Alfenas 37130-001, Minas Gerais, Brazil
| | - Mônica F Pelozo
- Programa de Pós-Graduação em Ciências Farmacêuticas, Universidade Federal de Alfenas, Alfenas 37130-001, Minas Gerais, Brazil; Faculdade de Ciências Farmacêuticas, Departamento de Alimentos e Medicamentos, Universidade Federal de Alfenas, Alfenas 37130-001, Minas Gerais, Brazil
| | - Fernando Feltrim
- Programa de Pós-Graduação em Ciências Farmacêuticas, Universidade Federal de Alfenas, Alfenas 37130-001, Minas Gerais, Brazil; Faculdade de Ciências Farmacêuticas, Departamento de Alimentos e Medicamentos, Universidade Federal de Alfenas, Alfenas 37130-001, Minas Gerais, Brazil
| | - Juliana S Maciel
- Programa de Pós-Graduação em Ciências Farmacêuticas, Universidade Federal de Alfenas, Alfenas 37130-001, Minas Gerais, Brazil; Faculdade de Ciências Farmacêuticas, Departamento de Alimentos e Medicamentos, Universidade Federal de Alfenas, Alfenas 37130-001, Minas Gerais, Brazil
| | - Jose Vaz C Machado
- Programa de Pós-Graduação em Ciências Farmacêuticas, Universidade Federal de Alfenas, Alfenas 37130-001, Minas Gerais, Brazil
| | - Reggiani V Gonçalves
- Departamento de Biologia Animal, Programa de Pós-Graduação em Biologia Animal, Universidade Federal de Viçosa, Viçosa 36570-900, Minas Gerais, Brazil
| | - Rômulo D Novaes
- Programa de Pós-Graduação em Biociências Aplicadas à Saúde, Universidade Federal de Alfenas, Alfenas 37130-001, Minas Gerais, Brazil; Programa de Pós-Graduação em Ciências Biológicas, Universidade Federal de Alfenas, Alfenas 37130-001, Minas Gerais, Brazil; Instituto de Ciências Biomédicas, Universidade Federal de Alfenas, Alfenas 37130-001, Minas Gerais, Brazil; Departamento de Biologia Animal, Programa de Pós-Graduação em Biologia Animal, Universidade Federal de Viçosa, Viçosa 36570-900, Minas Gerais, Brazil.
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9
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Rojas-Pirela M, Kemmerling U, Quiñones W, Michels PAM, Rojas V. Antimicrobial Peptides (AMPs): Potential Therapeutic Strategy against Trypanosomiases? Biomolecules 2023; 13:biom13040599. [PMID: 37189347 DOI: 10.3390/biom13040599] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/20/2023] [Revised: 03/19/2023] [Accepted: 03/20/2023] [Indexed: 03/29/2023] Open
Abstract
Trypanosomiases are a group of tropical diseases that have devastating health and socio-economic effects worldwide. In humans, these diseases are caused by the pathogenic kinetoplastids Trypanosoma brucei, causing African trypanosomiasis or sleeping sickness, and Trypanosoma cruzi, causing American trypanosomiasis or Chagas disease. Currently, these diseases lack effective treatment. This is attributed to the high toxicity and limited trypanocidal activity of registered drugs, as well as resistance development and difficulties in their administration. All this has prompted the search for new compounds that can serve as the basis for the development of treatment of these diseases. Antimicrobial peptides (AMPs) are small peptides synthesized by both prokaryotes and (unicellular and multicellular) eukaryotes, where they fulfill functions related to competition strategy with other organisms and immune defense. These AMPs can bind and induce perturbation in cell membranes, leading to permeation of molecules, alteration of morphology, disruption of cellular homeostasis, and activation of cell death. These peptides have activity against various pathogenic microorganisms, including parasitic protists. Therefore, they are being considered for new therapeutic strategies to treat some parasitic diseases. In this review, we analyze AMPs as therapeutic alternatives for the treatment of trypanosomiases, emphasizing their possible application as possible candidates for the development of future natural anti-trypanosome drugs.
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10
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Muñoz-Calderón A, Ramírez JL, Díaz-Bello Z, Alarcón de Noya B, Noya O, Schijman AG. Genetic Characterization of Trypanosoma cruzi I Populations from an Oral Chagas Disease Outbreak in Venezuela: Natural Resistance to Nitroheterocyclic Drugs. ACS Infect Dis 2023; 9:582-592. [PMID: 36780430 DOI: 10.1021/acsinfecdis.2c00569] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 02/15/2023]
Abstract
The oral transmission of Chagas disease (oCD) in Venezuela announced its appearance in 2007. Different from other populations affected by oCD and despite close supervision during treatment with nitroheterocyclic drugs, the result was treatment failure. We studied genetic features of natural bloodstream parasite populations and populations after treatment of nine patients of this outbreak. In total, we studied six hemoculture isolates, eight Pre-Tx blood samples, and 17 samples collected at two or three Post-Tx time-points between 2007 and 2015. Parasitic loads were determined by quantitative polymerase chain reaction (qPCR), and discrete typing units (DTU), minicircle signatures, and Tcntr-1 gene sequences were searched from blood samples and hemocultures. Half-maximal inhibitory concentration (IC50) values were measured from the hemocultures. All patients were infected by TcI. Significant decrease in parasitic loads was observed between Pre-Tx and Post-Tx samples, suggesting the evolution from acute to chronic phase of Chagas disease. 60% of intra-DTU-I variability was observed between Pre-Tx and Post-Tx minicircle signatures in the general population, and 43 single-nucleotide polymorphisms (SNPs) were detected in a total of 12 Tcntr-1 gene sequences, indicative of a polyclonal source of infection. SNPs in three post-Tx samples produced stop codons giving rise to putative truncated proteins or displaced open reading frames, which would render resistance genes. IC50 values varied from 5.301 ± 1.973 to 104.731 ± 4.556 μM, demonstrating a wide range of susceptibility. The poor drug response in the Pre-Tx parasite populations may be associated with the presence of naturally resistant parasite clones. Therefore, any information that can be obtained on drug susceptibility from in vitro assays, in vivo assays, or molecular characterization of natural populations of Trypanosoma cruzi becomes essential when therapeutic guidelines are designed in a given geographical area.
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Affiliation(s)
- Arturo Muñoz-Calderón
- Laboratorio de Biología Molecular de la Enfermedad de Chagas, Instituto de Ingeniería Genética y Biología Molecular "Dr. Héctor Torres", Buenos Aires CP1428ADN, Argentina
| | - José Luis Ramírez
- Centro de Biotecnología, Fundación Instituto de Estudios Avanzados, Caracas CP1080, Venezuela
| | - Zoraida Díaz-Bello
- Instituto de Medicina Tropical "Dr. Félix Pifano", Facultad de Medicina, Universidad Central de Venezuela, Caracas CP1050, Venezuela
| | - Belkisyolé Alarcón de Noya
- Instituto de Medicina Tropical "Dr. Félix Pifano", Facultad de Medicina, Universidad Central de Venezuela, Caracas CP1050, Venezuela
| | - Oscar Noya
- Instituto de Medicina Tropical "Dr. Félix Pifano", Facultad de Medicina, Universidad Central de Venezuela, Caracas CP1050, Venezuela.,Centro de Estudios sobre Malaria, Instituto de Altos Estudios, Ministerio del Poder Popular para la Salud, Caracas CP1050, Venezuela
| | - Alejandro G Schijman
- Laboratorio de Biología Molecular de la Enfermedad de Chagas, Instituto de Ingeniería Genética y Biología Molecular "Dr. Héctor Torres", Buenos Aires CP1428ADN, Argentina
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11
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Cebrián R, Martínez-García M, Fernández M, García F, Martínez-Bueno M, Valdivia E, Kuipers OP, Montalbán-López M, Maqueda M. Advances in the preclinical characterization of the antimicrobial peptide AS-48. Front Microbiol 2023; 14:1110360. [PMID: 36819031 PMCID: PMC9936517 DOI: 10.3389/fmicb.2023.1110360] [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: 11/28/2022] [Accepted: 01/11/2023] [Indexed: 02/05/2023] Open
Abstract
Antimicrobial resistance is a natural and inevitable phenomenon that constitutes a severe threat to global public health and economy. Innovative products, active against new targets and with no cross- or co-resistance with existing antibiotic classes, novel mechanisms of action, or multiple therapeutic targets are urgently required. For these reasons, antimicrobial peptides such as bacteriocins constitute a promising class of new antimicrobial drugs under investigation for clinical development. Here, we review the potential therapeutic use of AS-48, a head-to-tail cyclized cationic bacteriocin produced by Enterococcus faecalis. In the last few years, its potential against a wide range of human pathogens, including relevant bacterial pathogens and trypanosomatids, has been reported using in vitro tests and the mechanism of action has been investigated. AS-48 can create pores in the membrane of bacterial cells without the mediation of any specific receptor. However, this mechanism of action is different when susceptible parasites are studied and involves intracellular targets. Due to these novel mechanisms of action, AS-48 remains active against the antibiotic resistant strains tested. Remarkably, the effect of AS-48 against eukaryotic cell lines and in several animal models show little effect at the doses needed to inhibit susceptible species. The characteristics of this molecule such as low toxicity, microbicide activity, blood stability and activity, high stability at a wide range of temperatures or pH, resistance to proteases, and the receptor-independent effect make AS-48 unique to fight a broad range of microbial infections, including bacteria and some important parasites.
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Affiliation(s)
- Rubén Cebrián
- Department of Clinical Microbiology, Instituto de Investigación Biosanitaria Ibs.GRANADA, University Hospital San Cecilio, Granada, Spain,*Correspondence: Rubén Cebrián, ✉
| | | | | | - Federico García
- Department of Clinical Microbiology, Instituto de Investigación Biosanitaria Ibs.GRANADA, University Hospital San Cecilio, Granada, Spain,Biomedicinal Research Network Center, Infectious Diseases (CIBERINFEC), Madrid, Spain
| | | | - Eva Valdivia
- Department of Microbiology, University of Granada, Granada, Spain
| | - Oscar P. Kuipers
- Department of Molecular Genetics, University of Groningen, Groningen, Netherlands
| | - Manuel Montalbán-López
- Department of Microbiology, University of Granada, Granada, Spain,Manuel Montalbán-López, ✉
| | - Mercedes Maqueda
- Department of Microbiology, University of Granada, Granada, Spain
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12
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In silico investigation of cytochrome bc1 molecular inhibition mechanism against Trypanosoma cruzi. PLoS Negl Trop Dis 2023; 17:e0010545. [PMID: 36689459 PMCID: PMC9894551 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pntd.0010545] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/31/2022] [Revised: 02/02/2023] [Accepted: 01/05/2023] [Indexed: 01/24/2023] Open
Abstract
Chagas' disease is a neglected tropical disease caused by the kinetoplastid protozoan Trypanosoma cruzi. The only therapies are the nitroheterocyclic chemicals nifurtimox and benznidazole that cause various adverse effects. The need to create safe and effective medications to improve medical care remains critical. The lack of verified T. cruzi therapeutic targets hinders medication research for Chagas' disease. In this respect, cytochrome bc1 has been identified as a promising therapeutic target candidate for antibacterial medicines of medical and agricultural interest. Cytochrome bc1 belongs to the mitochondrial electron transport chain and transfers electrons from ubiquinol to cytochrome c1 by the action of two catalytic sites named Qi and Qo. The two binding sites are highly selective, and specific inhibitors exist for each site. Recent studies identified the Qi site of the cytochrome bc1 as a promising drug target against T. cruzi. However, a lack of knowledge of the drug mechanism of action unfortunately hinders the development of new therapies. In this context, knowing the cause of binding site selectivity and the mechanism of action of inhibitors and substrates is crucial for drug discovery and optimization processes. In this paper, we provide a detailed computational investigation of the Qi site of T. cruzi cytochrome b to shed light on the molecular mechanism of action of known inhibitors and substrates. Our study emphasizes the action of inhibitors at the Qi site on a highly unstructured portion of cytochrome b that could be related to the biological function of the electron transport chain complex.
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13
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de Azevedo SLC, Catanho M, Guimarães ACR, Galvão TC. Genomic surveillance: a potential shortcut for effective Chagas disease management. Mem Inst Oswaldo Cruz 2023; 117:e220164. [PMID: 36700581 PMCID: PMC9870261 DOI: 10.1590/0074-02760220164] [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: 07/13/2022] [Accepted: 11/29/2022] [Indexed: 01/27/2023] Open
Abstract
Chagas disease is an enduring public health issue in many Latin American countries, receiving insufficient investment in research and development. Strategies for disease control and management currently lack efficient pharmaceuticals, commercial diagnostic kits with improved sensitivity, and vaccines. Genetic heterogeneity of Trypanosoma cruzi is a key aspect for novel drug design since pharmacological technologies rely on the degree of conservation of parasite target proteins. Therefore, there is a need to expand the knowledge regarding parasite genetics which, if fulfilled, could leverage Chagas disease research and development, and improve disease control strategies. The growing capacity of whole-genome sequencing technology and its adoption as disease surveillance routine may be key for solving this long-lasting problem.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sophia Lincoln Cardoso de Azevedo
- Fundação Oswaldo Cruz-Fiocruz, Instituto Oswaldo Cruz, Laboratório de Genômica Funcional e Bioinformática, Rio de Janeiro, RJ, Brasil,Universidade Federal Fluminense, Niterói, RJ, Brasil
| | - Marcos Catanho
- Fundação Oswaldo Cruz-Fiocruz, Instituto Oswaldo Cruz, Rio de Janeiro, RJ, Brasil
| | - Ana Carolina Ramos Guimarães
- Fundação Oswaldo Cruz-Fiocruz, Instituto Oswaldo Cruz, Laboratório de Genômica Funcional e Bioinformática, Rio de Janeiro, RJ, Brasil
| | - Teca Calcagno Galvão
- Fundação Oswaldo Cruz-Fiocruz, Instituto Oswaldo Cruz, Laboratório de Genômica Funcional e Bioinformática, Rio de Janeiro, RJ, Brasil,+ Corresponding author:
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14
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From rational design to serendipity: Discovery of novel thiosemicarbazones as potent trypanocidal compounds. Eur J Med Chem 2022; 244:114876. [DOI: 10.1016/j.ejmech.2022.114876] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/30/2022] [Revised: 10/04/2022] [Accepted: 10/20/2022] [Indexed: 11/24/2022]
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15
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Cirqueira ML, Bortot LO, Bolean M, Aleixo MAA, Luccas PH, Costa-Filho AJ, Ramos AP, Ciancaglini P, Nonato MC. Trypanosoma cruzi nitroreductase: Structural features and interaction with biological membranes. Int J Biol Macromol 2022; 221:891-899. [PMID: 36100001 DOI: 10.1016/j.ijbiomac.2022.09.073] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/09/2022] [Revised: 08/28/2022] [Accepted: 09/08/2022] [Indexed: 11/05/2022]
Abstract
Due to its severe burden and geographic distribution, Chagas disease (CD) has a significant social and economic impact on low-income countries. Benznidazole and nifurtimox are currently the only drugs available for CD. These are prodrugs activated by reducing the nitro group, a reaction catalyzed by nitroreductase type I enzyme from Trypanosoma cruzi (TcNTR), with no homolog in the human host. The three-dimensional structure of TcNTR, and the molecular and chemical bases of the selective activation of nitro drugs, are still unknown. To understand the role of TcNTR in the basic parasite biology, investigate its potential as a drug target, and contribute to the fight against neglected tropical diseases, a combined approach using multiple biophysical and biochemical methods together with in silico studies was employed in the characterization of TcNTR. For the first time, the interaction of TcNTR with membranes was demonstrated, with a preference for those containing cardiolipin, a unique dimeric phospholipid that exists almost exclusively in the inner mitochondrial membrane in eukaryotic cells. Prediction of TcNTR's 3D structure suggests that a 23-residue long insertion (199 to 222), absent in the homologous bacterial protein and identified as conserved in protozoan sequences, mediates enzyme specificity, and is involved in protein-membrane interaction.
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Affiliation(s)
- Marília L Cirqueira
- School of Pharmaceutical Sciences of Ribeirão Preto, University of São Paulo (FCFRP-USP), Ribeirão Preto, SP, Brazil
| | - Leandro O Bortot
- School of Pharmaceutical Sciences of Ribeirão Preto, University of São Paulo (FCFRP-USP), Ribeirão Preto, SP, Brazil; Laboratory of Computational Biology (LBC), Brazilian Biosciences National Laboratory (LNBio), Brazilian Center for Research in Energy and Materials (CNPEM), Campinas, SP, Brazil
| | - Maytê Bolean
- Chemistry Dept., Faculty of Philosophy, Sciences and Letters at Ribeirão Preto, University of São Paulo (FFCLRP-USP), Ribeirão Preto, SP, Brazil
| | - Mariana A A Aleixo
- School of Pharmaceutical Sciences of Ribeirão Preto, University of São Paulo (FCFRP-USP), Ribeirão Preto, SP, Brazil; Brazilian Nanotechnology National Laboratory (LNNano), Brazilian Center for Research in Energy and Materials (CNPEM), Campinas, SP, Brazil
| | - Pedro H Luccas
- School of Pharmaceutical Sciences of Ribeirão Preto, University of São Paulo (FCFRP-USP), Ribeirão Preto, SP, Brazil
| | - Antonio J Costa-Filho
- Physics Dept., Faculty of Philosophy, Sciences and Letters at Ribeirão Preto, University of São Paulo (FFCLRP-USP), Ribeirão Preto, SP, Brazil
| | - Ana Paula Ramos
- Chemistry Dept., Faculty of Philosophy, Sciences and Letters at Ribeirão Preto, University of São Paulo (FFCLRP-USP), Ribeirão Preto, SP, Brazil
| | - Pietro Ciancaglini
- Chemistry Dept., Faculty of Philosophy, Sciences and Letters at Ribeirão Preto, University of São Paulo (FFCLRP-USP), Ribeirão Preto, SP, Brazil
| | - M Cristina Nonato
- School of Pharmaceutical Sciences of Ribeirão Preto, University of São Paulo (FCFRP-USP), Ribeirão Preto, SP, Brazil.
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16
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Jaime LD, Aracely LM, Paulina OM, Dumonteil E, Barnabé C, Waleckx E, Hernández-Giles RG, Ramos-Ligonio A. Molecular Characterization of Four Mexican Isolates of Trypanosoma cruzi and Their Profile Susceptibility to Nifurtimox. Acta Parasitol 2022; 67:1584-1593. [PMID: 36029434 DOI: 10.1007/s11686-022-00608-3] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/20/2022] [Accepted: 08/10/2022] [Indexed: 11/30/2022]
Abstract
PURPOSE The objective of this study was to molecularly characterize Mexican isolates of T. cruzi obtained from infected triatomine bugs (the vectors of T. cruzi) and to evaluate their susceptibility to Nifurtimox (NFX). METHODS Three isolates obtained from Triatoma dimidiata (collected in the State of Veracruz) and one isolate obtained from Triatoma bassolsae (collected in the State of Puebla) were molecularly characterized and the expression of genes associated with natural resistance to NFX was analyzed by qPCR. RESULTS Molecular characterization by PCR showed that isolates Zn3, Zn5, and SRB1 belong to the DTU TcI, while isolate Sum3 belongs to TcIV. The latter was also confirmed by sequencing of mitochondrial genes. Isolate Zn5 was the most sensitive to treatment with NFX (IC50, 6.8 μM), isolates SRB1 and Zn3 were partially resistant (IC50, 12.8 μM and 12.7 μM) and isolate Sum3 showed a high degree of resistance to NFX (IC50, 21.4 µM). We also found an association between decreased NTR1 or OYE gene expression with NFX resistance. CONCLUSION Our results also evidenced a high variability in the susceptibility to NFX of these T. cruzi isolates Central and Southeastern Mexico, suggesting the presence of naturally resistant isolates circulating in the country. These results have important implications for defining treatment policies for patients with Chagas disease.
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Affiliation(s)
- López-Domínguez Jaime
- LADISER de Inmunología y Biología Molecular, Facultad de Ciencias Químicas, Universidad Veracruzana, Edificio D, Prolongación de Oriente 6 #1009, Colonia Rafael Alvarado, C.P. 94340, 86039, Orizaba, Veracruz, Mexico.,Doctorado en Ciencias Biomédicas, Universidad Veracruzana, Xalapa, Veracruz, Mexico
| | - López-Monteon Aracely
- LADISER de Inmunología y Biología Molecular, Facultad de Ciencias Químicas, Universidad Veracruzana, Edificio D, Prolongación de Oriente 6 #1009, Colonia Rafael Alvarado, C.P. 94340, 86039, Orizaba, Veracruz, Mexico.,Asociacion Chagas con Ciencia y Conocimiento A.C., Orizaba, Veracruz, Mexico
| | - Ochoa-Martínez Paulina
- LADISER de Inmunología y Biología Molecular, Facultad de Ciencias Químicas, Universidad Veracruzana, Edificio D, Prolongación de Oriente 6 #1009, Colonia Rafael Alvarado, C.P. 94340, 86039, Orizaba, Veracruz, Mexico.,Doctorado en Ciencias Biomédicas, Universidad Veracruzana, Xalapa, Veracruz, Mexico
| | - Eric Dumonteil
- Department of Tropical Medicine, Tulane University, School of Public Health and Tropical Medicine, New Orleans, LA, USA
| | - Christian Barnabé
- Institut de Recherche pour le Développement, UMR INTERTRYP IRD, CIRAD, Université de Montpellier, Montpellier, France
| | - Etienne Waleckx
- Asociacion Chagas con Ciencia y Conocimiento A.C., Orizaba, Veracruz, Mexico.,Institut de Recherche pour le Développement, UMR INTERTRYP IRD, CIRAD, Université de Montpellier, Montpellier, France.,Laboratorio de Parasitología, Centro de Investigaciones Regionales "Dr. Hideyo Noguchi", Universidad Autónoma de Yucatán, Mérida, Yucatán, Mexico
| | - Rubén Gustavo Hernández-Giles
- LADISER de Inmunología y Biología Molecular, Facultad de Ciencias Químicas, Universidad Veracruzana, Edificio D, Prolongación de Oriente 6 #1009, Colonia Rafael Alvarado, C.P. 94340, 86039, Orizaba, Veracruz, Mexico.,Maestría en Ciencias en Procesos Biológicos, Facultad de Ciencias Químicas, Universidad Veracruzana, Orizaba, Veracruz, Mexico
| | - Angel Ramos-Ligonio
- LADISER de Inmunología y Biología Molecular, Facultad de Ciencias Químicas, Universidad Veracruzana, Edificio D, Prolongación de Oriente 6 #1009, Colonia Rafael Alvarado, C.P. 94340, 86039, Orizaba, Veracruz, Mexico. .,Asociacion Chagas con Ciencia y Conocimiento A.C., Orizaba, Veracruz, Mexico.
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17
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In vitro interaction of polyethylene glycol-block-poly(D,L-lactide) nanocapsule devices with host cardiomyoblasts and Trypanosoma cruzi-infective forms. Parasitol Res 2022; 121:2861-2874. [PMID: 35972545 DOI: 10.1007/s00436-022-07618-0] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/07/2021] [Accepted: 08/02/2022] [Indexed: 10/15/2022]
Abstract
Chagas disease, caused by the protozoan Trypanosoma cruzi, is an important public health problem in Latin America. Nanoencapsulation of anti-T. cruzi drugs has significantly improved their efficacy and reduced cardiotoxicity. Thus, we investigated the in vitro interaction of polyethylene glycol-block-poly(D,L-lactide) nanocapsules (PEG-PLA) with trypomastigotes and with intracellular amastigotes of the Y strain in cardiomyoblasts, which are the infective forms of T. cruzi, using fluorescence and confocal microscopy. Fluorescently labeled nanocapsules (NCs) were internalized by non-infected H9c2 cells toward the perinuclear region. The NCs did not induce significant cytotoxicity in the H9c2 cells, even at the highest concentrations and interacted equally with infected and non-infected cells. In infected cardiomyocytes, NCs were distributed in the cytoplasm and located near intracellular amastigote forms. PEG-PLA NCs and trypomastigote form interactions also occurred. Altogether, this study contributes to the development of engineered polymeric nanocarriers as a platform to encapsulate drugs and to improve their uptake by different intra- and extracellular forms of T. cruzi, paving the way to find new therapeutic strategies to fight the causative agent of Chagas disease.
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18
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Almeida-Silva J, Menezes DS, Fernandes JMP, Almeida MC, Vasco-Dos-Santos DR, Saraiva RM, Viçosa AL, Perez SAC, Andrade SG, Suarez-Fontes AM, Vannier-Santos MA. The repositioned drugs disulfiram/diethyldithiocarbamate combined to benznidazole: Searching for Chagas disease selective therapy, preventing toxicity and drug resistance. Front Cell Infect Microbiol 2022; 12:926699. [PMID: 35967878 PMCID: PMC9372510 DOI: 10.3389/fcimb.2022.926699] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/22/2022] [Accepted: 06/27/2022] [Indexed: 12/20/2022] Open
Abstract
Chagas disease (CD) affects at least 6 million people in 21 South American countries besides several thousand in other nations all over the world. It is estimated that at least 14,000 people die every year of CD. Since vaccines are not available, chemotherapy remains of pivotal relevance. About 30% of the treated patients cannot complete the therapy because of severe adverse reactions. Thus, the search for novel drugs is required. Here we tested the benznidazole (BZ) combination with the repositioned drug disulfiram (DSF) and its derivative diethyldithiocarbamate (DETC) upon Trypanosoma cruzi in vitro and in vivo. DETC-BZ combination was synergistic diminishing epimastigote proliferation and enhancing selective indexes up to over 10-fold. DETC was effective upon amastigotes of the BZ- partially resistant Y and the BZ-resistant Colombiana strains. The combination reduced proliferation even using low concentrations (e.g., 2.5 µM). Scanning electron microscopy revealed membrane discontinuities and cell body volume reduction. Transmission electron microscopy revealed remarkable enlargement of endoplasmic reticulum cisternae besides, dilated mitochondria with decreased electron density and disorganized kinetoplast DNA. At advanced stages, the cytoplasm vacuolation apparently impaired compartmentation. The fluorescent probe H2-DCFDA indicates the increased production of reactive oxygen species associated with enhanced lipid peroxidation in parasites incubated with DETC. The biochemical measurement indicates the downmodulation of thiol expression. DETC inhibited superoxide dismutase activity on parasites was more pronounced than in infected mice. In order to approach the DETC effects on intracellular infection, peritoneal macrophages were infected with Colombiana trypomastigotes. DETC addition diminished parasite numbers and the DETC-BZ combination was effective, despite the low concentrations used. In the murine infection, the combination significantly enhanced animal survival, decreasing parasitemia over BZ. Histopathology revealed that low doses of BZ-treated animals presented myocardial amastigote, not observed in combination-treated animals. The picrosirius collagen staining showed reduced myocardial fibrosis. Aminotransferase de aspartate, Aminotransferase de alanine, Creatine kinase, and urea plasma levels demonstrated that the combination was non-toxic. As DSF and DETC can reduce the toxicity of other drugs and resistance phenotypes, such a combination may be safe and effective.
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Affiliation(s)
- Juliana Almeida-Silva
- Innovations in Therapies, Education and Bioproducts Laboratory, Oswaldo Cruz Institute, Oswaldo Cruz Foundation, Rio de Janeiro, RJ, Brazil
| | - Diego Silva Menezes
- Parasite Biology Laboratory, Gonçalo Moniz Institute, Oswaldo Cruz Foundation, Salvador, BA, Brazil
| | - Juan Mateus Pereira Fernandes
- Innovations in Therapies, Education and Bioproducts Laboratory, Oswaldo Cruz Institute, Oswaldo Cruz Foundation, Rio de Janeiro, RJ, Brazil
| | - Márcio Cerqueira Almeida
- Parasite Biology Laboratory, Gonçalo Moniz Institute, Oswaldo Cruz Foundation, Salvador, BA, Brazil
| | - Deyvison Rhuan Vasco-Dos-Santos
- Innovations in Therapies, Education and Bioproducts Laboratory, Oswaldo Cruz Institute, Oswaldo Cruz Foundation, Rio de Janeiro, RJ, Brazil
| | - Roberto Magalhães Saraiva
- Laboratory of Clinical Research on Chagas Disease, Evandro Chagas Infectious Disease Institute, Oswaldo Cruz Foundation, Rio de Janeiro, RJ, Brazil
| | - Alessandra Lifsitch Viçosa
- Experimental Pharmacotechnics Laboratory, Department of Galenic Innovation, Institute of Drug Technology - Farmanguinhos, Oswaldo Cruz Foundation, Rio de Janeiro, RJ, Brazil
| | - Sandra Aurora Chavez Perez
- Project Management Technical Assistance, Institute of Drug Technology - Farmanguinhos, Oswaldo Cruz Foundation, Rio de Janeiro, RJ, Brazil
| | - Sônia Gumes Andrade
- Experimental Chagas Disease Laboratory, Gonçalo Moniz Institute, Oswaldo Cruz Foundation, Salvador, BA, Brazil
| | - Ana Márcia Suarez-Fontes
- Innovations in Therapies, Education and Bioproducts Laboratory, Oswaldo Cruz Institute, Oswaldo Cruz Foundation, Rio de Janeiro, RJ, Brazil
| | - Marcos André Vannier-Santos
- Innovations in Therapies, Education and Bioproducts Laboratory, Oswaldo Cruz Institute, Oswaldo Cruz Foundation, Rio de Janeiro, RJ, Brazil
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Jasinski G, Salas-Sarduy E, Vega D, Fabian L, Martini MF, Moglioni AG. Thiosemicarbazone derivatives: Evaluation as cruzipain inhibitors and molecular modeling study of complexes with cruzain. Bioorg Med Chem 2022; 61:116708. [PMID: 35334448 DOI: 10.1016/j.bmc.2022.116708] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/14/2022] [Revised: 03/13/2022] [Accepted: 03/14/2022] [Indexed: 11/02/2022]
Abstract
The development of cruzipain inhibitors represents one of the most attractive challenges in the search for drugs for the treatment of Chagas disease. A recombinant form of this enzyme, cruzain, has been crystallized with numerous inhibitors, excluding thiosemicarbazones. These compounds have been established as potent inhibitors of cruzain, although there is very little data in the literature of thiosemicarbazones tested on cruzipain. In this work, we present the results of the evaluation of eleven thiosemicarbazones on cruzipain, isolated from T. cruzi epimastigotes, six of them previously evaluated on cruzain. For these latter, we studied through computational methods, the mode of interaction with the active site of cruzain and the contribution of geometric parameters to the possible mechanism of action involved in the observed inhibition. Finally, from some geometric parameters analyzed on modeled TSC-cruzain complexes, a semi-quantitative relationship was established that could explain the inhibitory activity of thiosemicarbazones on cruzipain, the enzyme actually present in the parasite.
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Affiliation(s)
- Gabriel Jasinski
- Cátedra de Química Medicinal, Facultad de Farmacia y Bioquímica, Universidad de Buenos Aires, CABA, C1113AAD, Argentina; Instituto de la Química y el Metabolismo del Fármaco (IQUIMEFA), CONICET-Universidad de Buenos Aires, CABA, 1113, Argentina
| | - Emir Salas-Sarduy
- Instituto de Investigaciones Biotecnológicas "Dr. Rodolfo Ugalde" (IIBIO), CONICET-Universidad de San Martín (UNSAM), San Martín, Buenos Aires 1650, Argentina
| | - Daniel Vega
- Departamento de Física de la Materia Condensada, GIyA, CAC, CNEA, Buenos Aires B1650KNA, Argentina; Escuela de Ciencia y Tecnología, UNSAM, San Martín, Buenos Aires B1650KNA, Argentina
| | - Lucas Fabian
- Instituto de la Química y el Metabolismo del Fármaco (IQUIMEFA), CONICET-Universidad de Buenos Aires, CABA, 1113, Argentina
| | - María Florencia Martini
- Cátedra de Química Medicinal, Facultad de Farmacia y Bioquímica, Universidad de Buenos Aires, CABA, C1113AAD, Argentina; Instituto de la Química y el Metabolismo del Fármaco (IQUIMEFA), CONICET-Universidad de Buenos Aires, CABA, 1113, Argentina
| | - Albertina G Moglioni
- Cátedra de Química Medicinal, Facultad de Farmacia y Bioquímica, Universidad de Buenos Aires, CABA, C1113AAD, Argentina; Instituto de la Química y el Metabolismo del Fármaco (IQUIMEFA), CONICET-Universidad de Buenos Aires, CABA, 1113, Argentina
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Vilas-Boas DF, Oliveira RRG, Gonçalves-Santos E, Silva LS, Diniz LF, Mazzeti AL, Brancaglion GA, Carvalho DT, Caldas S, Novaes RD, Caldas IS. 4-nitrobenzoylcoumarin potentiates the antiparasitic, anti-inflammatory and cardioprotective effects of benznidazole in a murine model of acute Trypanosoma cruzi infection. Acta Trop 2022; 228:106314. [PMID: 35038424 DOI: 10.1016/j.actatropica.2022.106314] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/10/2021] [Revised: 12/31/2021] [Accepted: 01/13/2022] [Indexed: 11/29/2022]
Abstract
The anti-inflammatory and cardioprotective potential of coumarin metabolites in infectious myocarditis remains overlooked. Thus, the impact of the synthetic 4-nitrobenzoylcoumarin (4NB) alone and combined with benznidazole (Bz) in a murine model of Trypanosoma cruzi-induced acute myocarditis was investigated. Swiss mice infected with T. cruzi were randomized in 8 groups: uninfected, infected untreated or treated with 50 and 100 mg/kg 4NB or Bz alone and combined. Treatments were administered by gavage for 20 days. Cytokines (IL-2, IL-6, IL-10, IL-17, TNFα, and IFN-γ), immunoglobulin reactivity index (total IgG, IgG1, IgG2a and IgG2b), atrial natriuretic peptide (ANP), parasitemia, serum transaminases, heart and liver cellularity were analyzed. T. cruzi infection induced blood parasitism, heart and liver inflammation, upregulated all cytokines, IgG reactivity index, ANP and transaminase levels, determining 43% mortality in untreated mice. Transaminase levels, mean parasitemia, heart inflammation and ANP were reduced in 4NB-treated mice, reaching a 100% survival rate. Total survival (100%) was also obtained in all combinations of Bz and 4NB, which were effective in reducing blood parasitism, transaminases, cytokines and ANP levels, IgG reactivity index, liver and heart interstitial cellularity compared to 50 mg/kg Bz. Our findings indicated that 4NB alone and combined with Bz was well tolerated, showing no evidence of hepatotoxicity. Mainly in combination, these drugs exerted protective effects against T. cruzi-induced acute myocarditis by attenuating blood parasitism, systemic and heart inflammation. Thus, combinations based on 4NB and Bz are potentially relevant to develop new and more effective drug regimens for the treatment of T. cruzi-induced myocarditis.
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Affiliation(s)
- Diego F Vilas-Boas
- Departamento de Patologia e Parasitologia, Universidade Federal de Alfenas, 37130-001 Alfenas, MG, Brazil
| | - Raphaela R G Oliveira
- Departamento de Patologia e Parasitologia, Universidade Federal de Alfenas, 37130-001 Alfenas, MG, Brazil
| | - Elda Gonçalves-Santos
- Departamento de Biologia Estrutural, Universidade Federal de Alfenas, 37130-000 Alfenas, MG, Brazil
| | - Luana S Silva
- Departamento de Patologia e Parasitologia, Universidade Federal de Alfenas, 37130-001 Alfenas, MG, Brazil
| | - Lívia F Diniz
- Departamento de Patologia e Parasitologia, Universidade Federal de Alfenas, 37130-001 Alfenas, MG, Brazil
| | - Ana L Mazzeti
- Laboratório de Biologia Celular, Instituto Oswaldo Cruz, Fundação Oswaldo Cruz, 21040-360 Rio de Janeiro, RJ, Brazil
| | - Guilherme A Brancaglion
- Departamento de Alimentos e Medicamentos, Faculdade de Ciências Farmacêuticas, Universidade Federal de Alfenas, 37130-000 Alfenas, MG, Brazil
| | - Diogo T Carvalho
- Departamento de Alimentos e Medicamentos, Faculdade de Ciências Farmacêuticas, Universidade Federal de Alfenas, 37130-000 Alfenas, MG, Brazil
| | - Sergio Caldas
- Fundação Ezequiel Dias, 30510-010 Belo Horizonte, MG, Brazil
| | - Rômulo D Novaes
- Departamento de Biologia Estrutural, Universidade Federal de Alfenas, 37130-000 Alfenas, MG, Brazil
| | - Ivo S Caldas
- Departamento de Patologia e Parasitologia, Universidade Federal de Alfenas, 37130-001 Alfenas, MG, Brazil.
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Antimicrobials and Resistance Part II: Antifungals, Antivirals, and Antiparasitics. J Am Acad Dermatol 2022; 86:1207-1226. [DOI: 10.1016/j.jaad.2021.11.065] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/07/2021] [Revised: 11/27/2021] [Accepted: 11/29/2021] [Indexed: 11/18/2022]
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22
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Beilstein S, El Phil R, Sahraoui SS, Scapozza L, Kaiser M, Mäser P. Laboratory Selection of Trypanosomatid Pathogens for Drug Resistance. Pharmaceuticals (Basel) 2022; 15:ph15020135. [PMID: 35215248 PMCID: PMC8879015 DOI: 10.3390/ph15020135] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/23/2021] [Revised: 01/13/2022] [Accepted: 01/14/2022] [Indexed: 11/16/2022] Open
Abstract
The selection of parasites for drug resistance in the laboratory is an approach frequently used to investigate the mode of drug action, estimate the risk of emergence of drug resistance, or develop molecular markers for drug resistance. Here, we focused on the How rather than the Why of laboratory selection, discussing different experimental set-ups based on research examples with Trypanosoma brucei, Trypanosoma cruzi, and Leishmania spp. The trypanosomatids are particularly well-suited to illustrate different strategies of selecting for drug resistance, since it was with African trypanosomes that Paul Ehrlich performed such an experiment for the first time, more than a century ago. While breakthroughs in reverse genetics and genome editing have greatly facilitated the identification and validation of candidate resistance mutations in the trypanosomatids, the forward selection of drug-resistant mutants still relies on standard in vivo models and in vitro culture systems. Critical questions are: is selection for drug resistance performed in vivo or in vitro? With the mammalian or with the insect stages of the parasites? Under steady pressure or by sudden shock? Is a mutagen used? While there is no bona fide best approach, we think that a methodical consideration of these questions provides a helpful framework for selection of parasites for drug resistance in the laboratory.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sabina Beilstein
- Department Medical Parasitology and Infection Biology, Swiss Tropical and Public Health Institute, 4051 Basel, Switzerland; (S.B.); (M.K.)
- Swiss TPH, University of Basel, Petersplatz 1, 4002 Basel, Switzerland
| | - Radhia El Phil
- School of Pharmaceutical Sciences, University of Geneva, 1205 Geneva, Switzerland; (R.E.P.); (S.S.S.); (L.S.)
- Institute of Pharmaceutical Sciences of Western Switzerland, University of Geneva, 1211 Geneva, Switzerland
| | - Suzanne Sherihan Sahraoui
- School of Pharmaceutical Sciences, University of Geneva, 1205 Geneva, Switzerland; (R.E.P.); (S.S.S.); (L.S.)
- Institute of Pharmaceutical Sciences of Western Switzerland, University of Geneva, 1211 Geneva, Switzerland
| | - Leonardo Scapozza
- School of Pharmaceutical Sciences, University of Geneva, 1205 Geneva, Switzerland; (R.E.P.); (S.S.S.); (L.S.)
- Institute of Pharmaceutical Sciences of Western Switzerland, University of Geneva, 1211 Geneva, Switzerland
| | - Marcel Kaiser
- Department Medical Parasitology and Infection Biology, Swiss Tropical and Public Health Institute, 4051 Basel, Switzerland; (S.B.); (M.K.)
- Swiss TPH, University of Basel, Petersplatz 1, 4002 Basel, Switzerland
| | - Pascal Mäser
- Department Medical Parasitology and Infection Biology, Swiss Tropical and Public Health Institute, 4051 Basel, Switzerland; (S.B.); (M.K.)
- Swiss TPH, University of Basel, Petersplatz 1, 4002 Basel, Switzerland
- Correspondence: ; Tel.: +41-61-284-8338
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23
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Martinez SJ, Nardella GN, Rodríguez ME, Rivero CV, Agüero F, Romano PS. Biological features of TcM: A new Trypanosoma cruzi isolate from Argentina classified into TcV lineage. CURRENT RESEARCH IN MICROBIAL SCIENCES 2022; 3:100152. [PMID: 35909611 PMCID: PMC9325899 DOI: 10.1016/j.crmicr.2022.100152] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/30/2022] Open
Abstract
TcM is a new T. cruzi isolate that belongs to DTU TcV. TcV is a T. cruzi linage prevalent in human infections of Argentina. TcM is less virulent that TcY strain. TcM displays slow-growing rate and muscle tissue tropism. TcM is more susceptible to benznidazole than TcY.
Trypanosoma cruzi, the etiologic agent of Chagas disease (CD) presents a wide genetic and phenotypic diversity that is classified into seven lineages or discrete typing units (DTU: TcI to TcVI and Tcbat). Although isolates and strains that belong to a particular group can share some attributes, such as geographic distribution, others like growth rate, cell tropism, and response to treatment can be highly variable. In addition, studies that test new trypanocidal drugs are frequently conducted on T. cruzi strains maintained for a long time in axenic culture, resulting in changes in parasite virulence and other important features. This work aimed to isolate and characterize a new T. cruzi strain from a chronic Chagas disease patient. The behavior of this isolate was studied by using standard in vitro assays and in vivo mice infection tests and compared with the T. cruzi Y strain (TcY), broadly used in research laboratories worldwide. Data showed that TcM behaves as a slow-growing strain in vitro that develops chronic infections in mice and displays high tropism to muscular tissues, in accordance with its clinical performance. In contrast, the Y strain behaved as an acute strain that can infect different types of cells and tissues. Interestingly, TcM, which belongs to DTU TcV, is more susceptible to benznidazole than TcY, a TcII strain considered moderately resistant to this drug. These differential properties contribute to the characterization of a TcV strain, one of the main lineages in the southern countries of South America, and open the possibility to introduce changes that improve the management of Chagas patients in the future
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Affiliation(s)
- Santiago José Martinez
- Laboratorio de Biología de Trypanosoma cruzi y la célula hospedadora. Instituto de Histología y Embriología, Universidad Nacional de Cuyo (IHEM-CONICET-UNCUYO), Mendoza, Argentina
| | | | - Matías Exequiel Rodríguez
- Instituto de Investigaciones Biotecnológicas, Universidad Nacional de San Martín (IIB-CONICET-UNSAM), Buenos Aires, Argentina
| | - Cynthia Vanesa Rivero
- Laboratorio de Biología de Trypanosoma cruzi y la célula hospedadora. Instituto de Histología y Embriología, Universidad Nacional de Cuyo (IHEM-CONICET-UNCUYO), Mendoza, Argentina
| | - Fernán Agüero
- Instituto de Investigaciones Biotecnológicas, Universidad Nacional de San Martín (IIB-CONICET-UNSAM), Buenos Aires, Argentina
| | - Patricia Silvia Romano
- Laboratorio de Biología de Trypanosoma cruzi y la célula hospedadora. Instituto de Histología y Embriología, Universidad Nacional de Cuyo (IHEM-CONICET-UNCUYO), Mendoza, Argentina
- Facultad de Ciencias Médicas. Universidad Nacional de Cuyo (FCM-UNCUYO), Mendoza, Argentina
- Corresponding author at: Instituto de Histología y Embriología, Universidad Nacional de Cuyo (IHEM-CONICET-UNCUYO), Casilla de Correo 56, Centro Universitario, Parque General San Martín, (5500) Mendoza, Argentina
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24
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Drug associations as alternative and complementary therapy for neglected tropical diseases. Acta Trop 2022; 225:106210. [PMID: 34687644 DOI: 10.1016/j.actatropica.2021.106210] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/12/2021] [Revised: 10/02/2021] [Accepted: 10/15/2021] [Indexed: 12/23/2022]
Abstract
The present paper aims to establish different treatments for neglected tropical disease by a survey on drug conjugations and possible fixed-dose combinations (FDC) used to obtain alternative, safer and more effective treatments. The source databases used were Science Direct and PubMed/Medline, in the intervals between 2015 and 2021 with the drugs key-words or diseases, like "schistosomiasis", "praziquantel", "malaria", "artesunate", "Chagas' disease", "benznidazole", "filariasis", diethylcarbamazine", "ivermectin", " albendazole". 118 works were the object of intense analysis, other articles and documents were used to increase the quality of the studies, such as consensuses for harmonizing therapeutics and historical articles. As a result, an effective NTD control can be achieved when different public health approaches are combined with interventions guided by the epidemiology of each location and the availability of appropriate measures to detect, prevent and control disease. It was also possible to verify that the FDCs promote a simplification of the therapeutic regimen, which promotes better patient compliance and enables a reduction in the development of parasitic resistance, requiring further studies aimed at resistant strains, since the combined APIs usually act by different mechanisms or at different target sites. In addition to eliminating the process of developing a new drug based on the identification and validation of active compounds, which is a complex, long process and requires a strong long-term investment, other advantages that FDCs have are related to productive gain and gain from the industrial plant, which can favor and encourage the R&D of new FDCs not only for NTDs but also for other diseases that require the use of more than one drug.
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25
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Cockram PE, Turner C, Slawin AMZ, Smith T. Convenient Synthesis of Alternatively Bridged Tryptophan Ketopiperazines and their Activities Against Trypanosomatid Parasites. ChemMedChem 2021; 17:e202100664. [PMID: 34927802 DOI: 10.1002/cmdc.202100664] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/14/2021] [Revised: 12/14/2021] [Indexed: 11/10/2022]
Abstract
There is an urgent need for the development of new treatments against trypanosomatid parasites; the causative agents of some of the most debilitating diseases in the developing world. This work targets an interesting 6-5-6-6 fused carboline scaffold, accessing a range of substituted derivatives through stereospecific intramolecular Pictet-Spengler condensation. Modification of the cyclisation conditions allowed retention of the carbamate protecting group and gave insight into the reaction mechanism. Compounds' bioactivities were measured against T. brucei, T. cruzi, L. majorand HeLa cells. We have identified promising pan-trypanocidal lead compounds based on the core scaffold, and highlight key SAR trends which will be useful for the future development of these compounds as potent trypanocidal agents.
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Affiliation(s)
| | | | | | - Terry Smith
- University of St Andrews, Chemistry, the north Haugh, KY16 9ST, St Andrews, UNITED KINGDOM
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26
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Moura YAS, da Silva Júnior JN, Lorena VMBD, Amorim APD, Porto ALF, Marques DDAV, Bezerra RP. Effects of algae bioactive compounds on Trypanosoma cruzi: A systematic review. ALGAL RES 2021. [DOI: 10.1016/j.algal.2021.102559] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/19/2022]
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27
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Teixeira SC, da Silva MS, Gomes AAS, Moretti NS, Lopes DS, Ferro EAV, Rodrigues VDM. Panacea within a Pandora's box: the antiparasitic effects of phospholipases A 2 (PLA 2s) from snake venoms. Trends Parasitol 2021; 38:80-94. [PMID: 34364805 DOI: 10.1016/j.pt.2021.07.004] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/04/2021] [Revised: 07/07/2021] [Accepted: 07/08/2021] [Indexed: 10/20/2022]
Abstract
Parasitic diseases affect millions of individuals worldwide, mainly in low-income regions. There is no cure for most of these diseases, and the treatment relies on drugs that have side effects and lead to drug resistance, emphasizing the urgency to find new treatments. Snake venom has been gaining prominence as a rich source of molecules with antiparasitic potentials, such as phospholipases A2 (PLA2s). Here, we compile the findings involving PLA2s with antiparasitic activities against helminths, Plasmodium, Toxoplasma, and trypanosomatids. We indicate their molecular features, highlighting the possible antiparasitic mechanisms of action of these proteins. We also demonstrate interactions between PLA2s and some parasite membrane components, shedding light on potential targets for drug design that may provide better treatment for the illnesses caused by parasites.
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Affiliation(s)
- Samuel Cota Teixeira
- Department of Immunology, Institute of Biomedical Science, Federal University of Uberlândia, Uberlândia (UFU), MG, Brazil.
| | - Marcelo Santos da Silva
- DNA Replication and Repair Laboratory (DRRL), Department of Chemical and Biological Sciences, Biosciences Institute, São Paulo State University (UNESP), Botucatu, SP, Brazil
| | | | - Nilmar Silvio Moretti
- Laboratório de Biologia Molecular de Patógenos (LBMP), Departamento de Microbiologia, Imunologia e Parasitologia, Escola Paulista de Medicina, Universidade Federal de São Paulo (UNIFESP), São Paulo, SP, Brazil
| | - Daiana Silva Lopes
- Multidisciplinary Institute of Health, Anísio Teixeira Campus, Federal University of Bahia (UFBA), Vitória da Conquista, BA, Brazil
| | - Eloisa Amália Vieira Ferro
- Department of Immunology, Institute of Biomedical Science, Federal University of Uberlândia, Uberlândia (UFU), MG, Brazil
| | - Veridiana de Melo Rodrigues
- Laboratory of Biochemistry and Animal Toxins, Institute of Biotechnology, Federal University of Uberlândia (UFU), Uberlândia, MG, Brazil.
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28
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Taylor MC, Ward AI, Olmo F, Francisco AF, Jayawardhana S, Costa FC, Lewis MD, Kelly JM. Bioluminescent:Fluorescent Trypanosoma cruzi Reporter Strains as Tools for Exploring Chagas Disease Pathogenesis and Drug Activity. Curr Pharm Des 2021; 27:1733-1740. [PMID: 33234096 DOI: 10.2174/1381612826666201124113214] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/07/2020] [Revised: 07/16/2020] [Accepted: 07/23/2020] [Indexed: 11/22/2022]
Abstract
Chagas disease results from infection with the trypanosomatid parasite Trypanosoma cruzi. Progress in developing new drugs has been hampered by the long term and complex nature of the condition and by our limited understanding of parasite biology. Technical difficulties in assessing the parasite burden during the chronic stage of infection have also proven to be a particular challenge. In this context, the development of noninvasive, highly sensitive bioluminescence imaging procedures based on parasites that express a red-shifted luciferase has greatly enhanced our ability to monitor infections in experimental models. Applications of this methodology have led to new insights into tissue tropism and infection dynamics and have been a major driver in drug development. The system has been further modified by the generation of parasite reporter lines that express bioluminescent:fluorescent fusion proteins, an advancement that has allowed chronic infections in mice to be examined at a cellular level. By exploiting bioluminescence, to identify the rare sites of tissue infection, and fluorescence to detect T. cruzi at the level of individual host cells in histological sections, it has been possible to investigate the replication and differentiation status of parasites in vivo and to examine the cellular environment of infection foci. In combination, these data provide a framework for the detailed dissection of disease pathogenesis and drug activity.
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Affiliation(s)
- Martin C Taylor
- Department of Infection Biology, London School of Hygiene and Tropical Medicine, Keppel Street, London WC1E 7HT, United Kingdom
| | - Alexander I Ward
- Department of Infection Biology, London School of Hygiene and Tropical Medicine, Keppel Street, London WC1E 7HT, United Kingdom
| | - Francisco Olmo
- Department of Infection Biology, London School of Hygiene and Tropical Medicine, Keppel Street, London WC1E 7HT, United Kingdom
| | - Amanda F Francisco
- Department of Infection Biology, London School of Hygiene and Tropical Medicine, Keppel Street, London WC1E 7HT, United Kingdom
| | - Shiromani Jayawardhana
- Department of Infection Biology, London School of Hygiene and Tropical Medicine, Keppel Street, London WC1E 7HT, United Kingdom
| | - Fernanda C Costa
- Department of Infection Biology, London School of Hygiene and Tropical Medicine, Keppel Street, London WC1E 7HT, United Kingdom
| | - Michael D Lewis
- Department of Infection Biology, London School of Hygiene and Tropical Medicine, Keppel Street, London WC1E 7HT, United Kingdom
| | - John M Kelly
- Department of Infection Biology, London School of Hygiene and Tropical Medicine, Keppel Street, London WC1E 7HT, United Kingdom
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29
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Intrinsic and Chemotherapeutic Stressors Modulate ABCC-Like Transport in Trypanosoma cruzi. Molecules 2021; 26:molecules26123510. [PMID: 34207619 PMCID: PMC8227891 DOI: 10.3390/molecules26123510] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/11/2021] [Revised: 06/01/2021] [Accepted: 06/04/2021] [Indexed: 11/17/2022] Open
Abstract
Trypanosoma cruzi is the etiologic agent for Chagas disease, which affects 6-7 million people worldwide. The biological diversity of the parasite reflects on inefficiency of benznidazole, which is a first choice chemotherapy, on chronic patients. ABC transporters that extrude xenobiotics, metabolites, and mediators are overexpressed in resistant cells and contribute to chemotherapy failure. An ABCC-like transport was identified in the Y strain and extrudes thiol-conjugated compounds. As thiols represent a line of defense towards reactive species, we aimed to verify whether ABCC-like transport could participate in the regulation of responses to stressor stimuli. In order to achieve this, ABCC-like activity was measured by flow cytometry using fluorescent substrates. The present study reveals the participation of glutathione and ceramides on ABCC-like transport, which are both implicated in stress. Hemin modulated the ABCC-like efflux which suggests that this protein might be involved in cellular detoxification. Additionally, all strains evaluated exhibited ABCC-like activity, while no ABCB1-like activity was detected. Results suggest that ABCC-like efflux is not associated with natural resistance to benznidazole, since sensitive strains showed higher activity than the resistant ones. Although benznidazole is not a direct substrate, ABCC-like efflux increased after prolonged drug exposure and this indicates that the ABCC-like efflux mediated protection against cell stress depends on the glutathione biosynthesis pathway.
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30
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Dattani A, Drammeh I, Mahmood A, Rahman M, Szular J, Wilkinson SR. Unraveling the antitrypanosomal mechanism of benznidazole and related 2-nitroimidazoles: From prodrug activation to DNA damage. Mol Microbiol 2021; 116:674-689. [PMID: 34061384 DOI: 10.1111/mmi.14763] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/03/2021] [Revised: 05/17/2021] [Accepted: 05/29/2021] [Indexed: 12/27/2022]
Abstract
Nitroheterocycles represent an important class of compound used to treat trypanosomiasis. They often function as prodrugs and can undergo type I nitroreductase (NTR1)-mediated activation before promoting their antiparasitic activities although the nature of these downstream effects has yet to be determined. Here, we show that in an NTR1-dependent process, benznidazole promotes DNA damage in the nuclear genome of Trypanosoma brucei, providing the first direct link between activation of this prodrug and a downstream trypanocidal mechanism. Phenotypic and protein expression studies revealed that components of the trypanosome's homologous recombination (HR) repair pathway (TbMRE11, γH2A, TbRAD51) cooperate to resolve the benznidazole-induced damage, indicating that the prodrug-induced lesions are most likely double stand DNA breaks, while the sequence/recruitment kinetics of these factors parallels that in other eukaryotes HR systems. When extended to other NTR1-activated 2-nitroimidazoles, some were shown to promote DNA damage. Intriguingly, the lesions induced by these required TbMRE11 and TbCSB activities to fix leading us to postulate that TbCSB may operate in systems other than the transcription-coupled nucleotide excision repair pathway. Understanding how existing trypanosomal drugs work will aid future drug design and help unlock novel reactions/pathways that could be exploited as targets for therapeutic intervention.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ambika Dattani
- School of Biological & Chemical Sciences, Queen Mary University of London, London, UK
| | - Isatou Drammeh
- School of Biological & Chemical Sciences, Queen Mary University of London, London, UK
| | - Aishah Mahmood
- School of Biological & Chemical Sciences, Queen Mary University of London, London, UK
| | - Mahbubur Rahman
- School of Biological & Chemical Sciences, Queen Mary University of London, London, UK
| | - Joanna Szular
- School of Biological & Chemical Sciences, Queen Mary University of London, London, UK
| | - Shane R Wilkinson
- School of Biological & Chemical Sciences, Queen Mary University of London, London, UK
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31
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Choudhury SD. Nano-Medicines a Hope for Chagas Disease! Front Mol Biosci 2021; 8:655435. [PMID: 34141721 PMCID: PMC8204082 DOI: 10.3389/fmolb.2021.655435] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/18/2021] [Accepted: 03/29/2021] [Indexed: 12/12/2022] Open
Abstract
Chagas disease, is a vector-mediated tropical disease whose causative agent is a parasitic protozoan named Trypanosoma cruzi. It is a very severe health issue in South America and Mexico infecting millions of people every year. Protozoan T. cruzi gets transmitted to human through Triatominae, a subfamily of the Reduviidae, and do not have any effective treatment or preventative available. The lack of economic gains from this tropical parasitic infection, has always been the reason behind its negligence by researchers and drug manufacturers for many decades. Hence there is an enormous requirement for more efficient and novel strategies to reduce the fatality associated with these diseases. Even, available diagnosis protocols are outdated and inefficient and there is an urgent need for rapid high throughput diagnostics as well as management protocol. The current advancement of nanotechnology in the field of healthcare has generated hope for better management of many tropical diseases including Chagas disease. Nanoparticulate systems for drug delivery like poloxamer coated nanosuspension of benzimidazole have shown promising results in reducing toxicity, elevating efficacy and bioavailability of the active compound against the pathogen, by prolonging release, thereby increasing the therapeutic index. Moreover, nanoparticle-based drug delivery has shown promising results in inducing the host’s immune response against the pathogen with very few side effects. Besides, advances in diagnostic assays, such as nanosensors, aided in the accurate detection of the parasite. In this review, we provide an insight into the life cycle stages of the pathogen in both vertebrate host and the insect vector, along with an overview of the current therapy for Chagas disease and its limitations; nano carrier-based delivery systems for antichagasic agents, we also address the advancement of nano vaccines and nano-diagnostic techniques, for treatment of Chagas disease, majorly focusing on the novel perspectives in combating the disease.
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32
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Mazzeti AL, Capelari-Oliveira P, Bahia MT, Mosqueira VCF. Review on Experimental Treatment Strategies Against Trypanosoma cruzi. J Exp Pharmacol 2021; 13:409-432. [PMID: 33833592 PMCID: PMC8020333 DOI: 10.2147/jep.s267378] [Citation(s) in RCA: 13] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/17/2020] [Accepted: 03/03/2021] [Indexed: 12/11/2022] Open
Abstract
Chagas disease is a neglected tropical disease caused by the protozoan Trypanosoma cruzi. Currently, only nitroheterocyclic nifurtimox (NFX) and benznidazole (BNZ) are available for the treatment of Chagas disease, with limitations such as variable efficacy, long treatment regimens and toxicity. Different strategies have been used to discover new active molecules for the treatment of Chagas disease. Target-based and phenotypic screening led to thousands of compounds with anti-T. cruzi activity, notably the nitroheterocyclic compounds, fexinidazole and its metabolites. In addition, drug repurposing, drug combinations, re-dosing regimens and the development of new formulations have been evaluated. The CYP51 antifungal azoles, as posaconazole, ravuconazole and its prodrug fosravuconazole presented promising results in experimental Chagas disease. Drug combinations of nitroheterocyclic and azoles were able to induce cure in murine infection. New treatment schemes using BNZ showed efficacy in the experimental chronic stage, including against dormant forms of T. cruzi. And finally, sesquiterpene lactone formulated in nanocarriers displayed outstanding efficacy against different strains of T. cruzi, susceptible or resistant to BNZ, the reference drug. These pre-clinical results are encouraging and provide interesting evidence to improve the treatment of patients with Chagas disease.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ana Lia Mazzeti
- Laboratório de Desenvolvimento Galênico e Nanotecnologia, Escola de Farmácia, Universidade Federal de Ouro Preto, Ouro Preto, Minas Gerais, 35400-000, Brazil.,Laboratório de Biologia Celular, Instituto Oswaldo Cruz, Fundação Oswaldo Cruz, Rio de Janeiro, Rio de Janeiro, 21040-360, Brazil.,Laboratório de Doenças Parasitárias, Escola de Medicina & Núcleo de Pesquisas em Ciências Biológicas, Universidade Federal de Ouro Preto, Ouro Preto, Minas Gerais, 35400-000, Brazil
| | - Patricia Capelari-Oliveira
- Laboratório de Desenvolvimento Galênico e Nanotecnologia, Escola de Farmácia, Universidade Federal de Ouro Preto, Ouro Preto, Minas Gerais, 35400-000, Brazil
| | - Maria Terezinha Bahia
- Laboratório de Doenças Parasitárias, Escola de Medicina & Núcleo de Pesquisas em Ciências Biológicas, Universidade Federal de Ouro Preto, Ouro Preto, Minas Gerais, 35400-000, Brazil
| | - Vanessa Carla Furtado Mosqueira
- Laboratório de Desenvolvimento Galênico e Nanotecnologia, Escola de Farmácia, Universidade Federal de Ouro Preto, Ouro Preto, Minas Gerais, 35400-000, Brazil
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Kannigadu C, N'Da DD. Recent Advances in the Synthesis and Development of Nitroaromatics as Anti-Infective Drugs. Curr Pharm Des 2021; 26:4658-4674. [PMID: 32228417 DOI: 10.2174/1381612826666200331091853] [Citation(s) in RCA: 15] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/05/2019] [Accepted: 02/28/2020] [Indexed: 12/24/2022]
Abstract
Infectious diseases commonly occur in tropical and sub-tropical countries. The pathogens of such diseases are able to multiply in human hosts, warranting their continual survival. Infections that are commonplace include malaria, chagas, trypanosomiasis, giardiasis, amoebiasis, toxoplasmosis and leishmaniasis. Malaria is known to cause symptoms, such as high fever, chills, nausea and vomiting, whereas chagas disease causes enlarged lymph glands, muscle pain, swelling and chest pain. People suffering from African trypanosomiasis may experience severe headaches, irritability, extreme fatigue and swollen lymph nodes. As an infectious disease progresses, the human host may also experience personality changes and neurologic problems. If left untreated, most of these diseases can lead to death. Parasites, microbes and bacteria are increasingly adapting and generating strains that are resistant to current clinical drugs. Drug resistance creates an urgency for the development of new drugs to treat these infections. Nitro containing drugs, such as chloramphenicol, metronidazole, tinidazole and secnidazole had been banned for use as antiparasitic agents due to their toxicity. However, recent discoveries of nitrocontaining anti-tuberculosis drugs, i.e. delamanid and pretonamid, and the repurposing of flexinidazole for use in combination with eflornithine for the treatment of human trypanosomiasis, have ignited interest in nitroaromatic scaffolds as viable sources of potential anti-infective agents. This review highlights the differences between old and new nitration methodologies. It furthermore offers insights into recent advances in the development of nitroaromatics as anti-infective drugs.
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Affiliation(s)
- Christina Kannigadu
- Centre of Excellence for Pharmaceutical Sciences (PharmacenTM), North-West University, Potchefstroom, South Africa
| | - David D N'Da
- Centre of Excellence for Pharmaceutical Sciences (PharmacenTM), North-West University, Potchefstroom, South Africa
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Vela A, Coral-Almeida M, Sereno D, Costales JA, Barnabé C, Brenière SF. In vitro susceptibility of Trypanosoma cruzi discrete typing units (DTUs) to benznidazole: A systematic review and meta-analysis. PLoS Negl Trop Dis 2021; 15:e0009269. [PMID: 33750958 PMCID: PMC8016252 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pntd.0009269] [Citation(s) in RCA: 20] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/26/2020] [Revised: 04/01/2021] [Accepted: 02/24/2021] [Indexed: 12/29/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Chagas disease, a neglected tropical disease endemic to Latin America caused by the parasite Trypanosoma cruzi, currently affects 6-7 million people and is responsible for 12,500 deaths each year. No vaccine exists at present and the only two drugs currently approved for the treatment (benznidazole and nifurtimox), possess serious limitations, including long treatment regimes, undesirable side effects, and frequent clinical failures. A link between parasite genetic variability and drug sensibility/efficacy has been suggested, but remains unclear. Therefore, we investigated associations between T. cruzi genetic variability and in vitro benznidazole susceptibility via a systematic article review and meta-analysis. METHODOLOGY/PRINCIPAL FINDINGS In vitro normalized benznidazole susceptibility indices (LC50 and IC50) for epimastigote, trypomastigote and amastigote stages of different T. cruzi strains were recorded from articles in the scientific literature. A total of 60 articles, which include 189 assays, met the selection criteria for the meta-analysis. Mean values for each discrete typing unit (DTU) were estimated using the meta and metaphor packages through R software, and presented in a rainforest plot. Subsequently, a meta-regression analysis was performed to determine differences between estimated mean values by DTU/parasite stage/drug incubation times. For each parasite stage, some DTU mean values were significantly different, e.g. at 24h of drug incubation, a lower sensitivity to benznidazole of TcI vs. TcII trypomastigotes was noteworthy. Nevertheless, funnel plots detected high heterogeneity of the data within each DTU and even for a single strain. CONCLUSIONS/SIGNIFICANCE Several limitations of the study prevent assigning DTUs to different in vitro benznidazole sensitivity groups; however, ignoring the parasite's genetic variability during drug development and evaluation would not be advisable. Our findings highlight the need for establishment of uniform experimental conditions as well as a screening of different DTUs during the optimization of new drug candidates for Chagas disease treatment.
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Affiliation(s)
- Andrea Vela
- Institut de recherche pour le développement (IRD), UMR INTERTRYP IRD-CIRAD, University of Montpellier, Montpellier, France
- Centro de Investigación para la Salud en América Latina (CISeAL), Escuela de Ciencias Biológicas, Universidad Católica del Ecuador, Quito, Ecuador
| | - Marco Coral-Almeida
- One Health Research group, Facultad de Ciencias de la salud, Universidad de las Américas-Quito, Calle de los Colimes y Avenida De los Granados, Quito, Ecuador
| | - Denis Sereno
- Institut de recherche pour le développement (IRD), UMR INTERTRYP IRD-CIRAD, University of Montpellier, Montpellier, France
| | - Jaime A. Costales
- Centro de Investigación para la Salud en América Latina (CISeAL), Escuela de Ciencias Biológicas, Universidad Católica del Ecuador, Quito, Ecuador
| | - Christian Barnabé
- Institut de recherche pour le développement (IRD), UMR INTERTRYP IRD-CIRAD, University of Montpellier, Montpellier, France
| | - Simone Frédérique Brenière
- Institut de recherche pour le développement (IRD), UMR INTERTRYP IRD-CIRAD, University of Montpellier, Montpellier, France
- Centro de Investigación para la Salud en América Latina (CISeAL), Escuela de Ciencias Biológicas, Universidad Católica del Ecuador, Quito, Ecuador
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Sensibilidad in vitro a benznidazol, nifurtimox y posaconazol de cepas de Trypanosoma cruzi de Paraguay. BIOMÉDICA 2020; 40:749-763. [PMID: 33275352 PMCID: PMC7808768 DOI: 10.7705/biomedica.5187] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/28/2019] [Indexed: 11/21/2022]
Abstract
Introducción. Trypanosoma cruzi, agente causal de la enfermedad de Chagas, exhibe una sustancial heterogeneidad fenotípica y genotípica que puede influir en las variaciones epidemiológicas y clínicas de la enfermedad, así como en la sensibilidad a los fármacos utilizados en el tratamiento. Objetivo. Evaluar la sensibilidad in vitro al benznidazol, el nifurtimox y el posaconazol de 40 cepas clonadas de T. cruzi de Paraguay, con distintos genotipos, huéspedes y localidades de origen. Materiales y métodos. En su estado epimastigote, los parásitos se incubaron en medio de cultivo LIT (Liver Infusion Tryptose) con diferentes concentraciones de cada fármaco en ensayos por triplicado. El grado de sensibilidad se estimó a partir de las concentraciones inhibitorias del 50 y el 90% (IC50 e IC90) y se obtuvieron los valores promedio y la desviación estándar de cada cepa y fármaco. La significación estadística entre grupos se determinó mediante análisis de varianzas con el test no paramétrico de Wilcoxon/Kruskal-Wallis y valores de p<0,05. Resultados. Se observó un amplio rango de respuesta a los fármacos. Se identificaron dos grupos de parásitos (A y B) con diferencias significativas en la sensibilidad al benznidazol (p<0,0001), y tres grupos (A, B, C) en cuanto a la sensibilidad al nifurtimox y el posaconazol (p<0,0001). Conclusiones. En general, las cepas fueron más sensibles al nifurtimox que al benznidazol y el posaconazol. Estas diferencias evidencian la heterogeneidad de las poblaciones de T cruzi que circulan en Paraguay, lo que debe considerarse en el tratamiento y el seguimiento de las personas afectadas.
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de Moura Ferraz LR, Tabosa AÉGA, da Silva Nascimento DDS, Ferreira AS, de Albuquerque Wanderley Sales V, Silva JYR, Júnior SA, Rolim LA, de Souza Pereira JJ, Rolim-Neto PJ. ZIF-8 as a promising drug delivery system for benznidazole: development, characterization, in vitro dialysis release and cytotoxicity. Sci Rep 2020; 10:16815. [PMID: 33033328 PMCID: PMC7545170 DOI: 10.1038/s41598-020-73848-w] [Citation(s) in RCA: 26] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/27/2020] [Accepted: 08/24/2020] [Indexed: 12/20/2022] Open
Abstract
Chagas disease (CD), caused by the flagellate protozoan Trypanosoma cruzi, is one of the major public health problems in developing countries. Benznidazole (BNZ) is the only drug available for CD treatment in most countries, however, it presents high toxicity and low bioavailability. To address these problems this study used Zeolitic Imidazolate Framework-8 (ZIF-8), which has garnered considerable attention due to its potential applications, enabling the controlled delivery of drugs. The present work developed and characterized a BNZ@ZIF-8 system, and the modulation of BNZ release from the ZIF-8 framework was evaluated through the in vitro dialysis release method under sink conditions at different pH values. Moreover, the in vitro evaluation of cell viability and cytotoxicity by MTT assay were also performed. The dissolution studies corroborated that a pH sensitive Drug Delivery System capable of vectorizing the release of BNZ was developed, may leading to the improvement in the bioavailability of BNZ. The MTT assay showed that no statistically significant toxic effects occurred in the developed system, nor significant effects on cell viability.
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Affiliation(s)
- Leslie Raphael de Moura Ferraz
- Laboratório de Tecnologia Dos Medicamentos, Department of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Federal University of Pernambuco, Av. Prof. Arthur de Sá, s/n, Cidade Universitária, Recife, PE, 50740-521, Brazil.
| | - Alinne Élida Gonçalves Alves Tabosa
- Laboratório de Tecnologia Dos Medicamentos, Department of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Federal University of Pernambuco, Av. Prof. Arthur de Sá, s/n, Cidade Universitária, Recife, PE, 50740-521, Brazil
| | - Débora Dolores Souza da Silva Nascimento
- Laboratório de Tecnologia Dos Medicamentos, Department of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Federal University of Pernambuco, Av. Prof. Arthur de Sá, s/n, Cidade Universitária, Recife, PE, 50740-521, Brazil
| | - Aline Silva Ferreira
- Laboratório de Tecnologia Dos Medicamentos, Department of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Federal University of Pernambuco, Av. Prof. Arthur de Sá, s/n, Cidade Universitária, Recife, PE, 50740-521, Brazil
| | - Victor de Albuquerque Wanderley Sales
- Laboratório de Tecnologia Dos Medicamentos, Department of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Federal University of Pernambuco, Av. Prof. Arthur de Sá, s/n, Cidade Universitária, Recife, PE, 50740-521, Brazil
| | - José Yago Rodrigues Silva
- Laboratório de Terras Raras, Departamento de Química Fundamental, Federal University of Pernambuco, Av. Jornalista Aníbal Fernandes, s/n - Cidade Universitária, Recife, PE, 50740-560, Brazil
| | - Severino Alves Júnior
- Laboratório de Terras Raras, Departamento de Química Fundamental, Federal University of Pernambuco, Av. Jornalista Aníbal Fernandes, s/n - Cidade Universitária, Recife, PE, 50740-560, Brazil
| | - Larissa Araújo Rolim
- Central de Análise de Fármacos, Medicamentos e Alimentos, Federal University of Vale Do São Francisco, Av. José de Sá Maniçoba, s/n, Centro, Petrolina, PE, 56304-917, Brazil
| | | | - Pedro José Rolim-Neto
- Laboratório de Tecnologia Dos Medicamentos, Department of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Federal University of Pernambuco, Av. Prof. Arthur de Sá, s/n, Cidade Universitária, Recife, PE, 50740-521, Brazil
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Cárdenas-Guerra RE, Moreno-Gutierrez DS, Vargas-Dorantes ODJ, Espinoza B, Hernandez-Garcia A. Delivery of Antisense DNA into Pathogenic Parasite Trypanosoma cruzi Using Virus-Like Protein-Based Nanoparticles. Nucleic Acid Ther 2020; 30:392-401. [PMID: 32907491 DOI: 10.1089/nat.2020.0870] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/16/2022] Open
Abstract
Trypanosoma cruzi, which causes Chagas disease, is one of the most lacerating parasites in terms of health and social impacts. New approaches for its study and treatment are urgently needed since in more than 50 years only two drugs have been approved. Genetic approaches based on antisense oligonucleotides (AONs) are promising; however, to harness their full potential the development of effective carriers is paramount. Here, we report the use of an engineered virus-like protein C-BK12 to transfect AONs into T. cruzi. Using gel electrophoresis, Dynamic Light Scattering, and atomic force microscopy, we found that C-BK12 binds AONs and forms 10-25 nm nanoparticles (NPs), which are very stable when incubated in biological media, only releasing up to 25% of AON. Fluorescence microscopy and qPCR revealed that the NPs successfully delivered AONs into epimastigotes and reduced the expression of a target gene down to 68%. Importantly, the protein did not show cytotoxicity. The combination of high stability and capability to transfect and knock down gene expression without causing cell damage and death makes the protein C-BK12 a promising starting point for the further development of safe and effective carriers to deliver AONs into T. cruzi for biological studies.
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Affiliation(s)
- Rosa E Cárdenas-Guerra
- Laboratorio de Estudios sobre Tripanosomiasis, Departamento de Inmunología, Instituto de Investigaciones Biomédicas, Universidad Nacional Autónoma de México, Ciudad de México, México
| | - David S Moreno-Gutierrez
- Laboratory of Biomolecular Engineering and Bionanotechnology, Departamento de Biomacromoléculas, Instituto de Química, Universidad Nacional Autónoma de México, Ciudad de México, México
| | - Oscar de J Vargas-Dorantes
- Laboratory of Biomolecular Engineering and Bionanotechnology, Departamento de Biomacromoléculas, Instituto de Química, Universidad Nacional Autónoma de México, Ciudad de México, México
| | - Bertha Espinoza
- Laboratorio de Estudios sobre Tripanosomiasis, Departamento de Inmunología, Instituto de Investigaciones Biomédicas, Universidad Nacional Autónoma de México, Ciudad de México, México
| | - Armando Hernandez-Garcia
- Laboratory of Biomolecular Engineering and Bionanotechnology, Departamento de Biomacromoléculas, Instituto de Química, Universidad Nacional Autónoma de México, Ciudad de México, México
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Francisco AF, Jayawardhana S, Olmo F, Lewis MD, Wilkinson SR, Taylor MC, Kelly JM. Challenges in Chagas Disease Drug Development. Molecules 2020; 25:E2799. [PMID: 32560454 PMCID: PMC7355550 DOI: 10.3390/molecules25122799] [Citation(s) in RCA: 27] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/22/2020] [Revised: 06/11/2020] [Accepted: 06/12/2020] [Indexed: 02/08/2023] Open
Abstract
The protozoan parasite Trypanosoma cruzi causes Chagas disease, an important public health problem throughout Latin America. Current therapeutic options are characterised by limited efficacy, long treatment regimens and frequent toxic side-effects. Advances in this area have been compromised by gaps in our knowledge of disease pathogenesis, parasite biology and drug activity. Nevertheless, several factors have come together to create a more optimistic scenario. Drug-based research has become more systematic, with increased collaborations between the academic and commercial sectors, often within the framework of not-for-profit consortia. High-throughput screening of compound libraries is being widely applied, and new technical advances are helping to streamline the drug development pipeline. In addition, drug repurposing and optimisation of current treatment regimens, informed by laboratory research, are providing a basis for new clinical trials. Here, we will provide an overview of the current status of Chagas disease drug development, highlight those areas where progress can be expected, and describe how fundamental research is helping to underpin the process.
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Affiliation(s)
- Amanda F. Francisco
- Department of Infection Biology, London School of Hygiene and Tropical Medicine Keppel Street, London WC1E 7HT, UK; (A.F.F.); (S.J.); (F.O.); (M.D.L.); (M.C.T.)
| | - Shiromani Jayawardhana
- Department of Infection Biology, London School of Hygiene and Tropical Medicine Keppel Street, London WC1E 7HT, UK; (A.F.F.); (S.J.); (F.O.); (M.D.L.); (M.C.T.)
| | - Francisco Olmo
- Department of Infection Biology, London School of Hygiene and Tropical Medicine Keppel Street, London WC1E 7HT, UK; (A.F.F.); (S.J.); (F.O.); (M.D.L.); (M.C.T.)
| | - Michael D. Lewis
- Department of Infection Biology, London School of Hygiene and Tropical Medicine Keppel Street, London WC1E 7HT, UK; (A.F.F.); (S.J.); (F.O.); (M.D.L.); (M.C.T.)
| | - Shane R. Wilkinson
- School of Biological and Chemical Sciences, Queen Mary University of London Mile End Road, London E1 4NS, UK;
| | - Martin C. Taylor
- Department of Infection Biology, London School of Hygiene and Tropical Medicine Keppel Street, London WC1E 7HT, UK; (A.F.F.); (S.J.); (F.O.); (M.D.L.); (M.C.T.)
| | - John M. Kelly
- Department of Infection Biology, London School of Hygiene and Tropical Medicine Keppel Street, London WC1E 7HT, UK; (A.F.F.); (S.J.); (F.O.); (M.D.L.); (M.C.T.)
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Franco CH, Warhurst DC, Bhattacharyya T, Au HYA, Le H, Giardini MA, Pascoalino BS, Torrecilhas AC, Romera LMD, Madeira RP, Schenkman S, Freitas-Junior LH, Chatelain E, Miles MA, Moraes CB. Novel structural CYP51 mutation in Trypanosoma cruzi associated with multidrug resistance to CYP51 inhibitors and reduced infectivity. INTERNATIONAL JOURNAL FOR PARASITOLOGY-DRUGS AND DRUG RESISTANCE 2020; 13:107-120. [PMID: 32688218 PMCID: PMC7369355 DOI: 10.1016/j.ijpddr.2020.06.001] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/15/2019] [Revised: 05/29/2020] [Accepted: 06/04/2020] [Indexed: 12/31/2022]
Abstract
Ergosterol biosynthesis inhibitors, such as posaconazole and ravuconazole, have been proposed as drug candidates for Chagas disease, a neglected infectious tropical disease caused by the protozoan parasite Trypanosoma cruzi. To understand better the mechanism of action and resistance to these inhibitors, a clone of the T. cruzi Y strain was cultured under intermittent and increasing concentrations of ravuconazole until phenotypic stability was achieved. The ravuconazole-selected clone exhibited loss in fitness in vitro when compared to the wild-type parental clone, as observed in reduced invasion capacity and slowed population growth in both mammalian and insect stages of the parasite. In drug activity assays, the resistant clone was above 300-fold more tolerant to ravuconazole than the sensitive parental clone, when the half-maximum effective concentration (EC50) was considered. The resistant clones also showed reduced virulence in vivo, when compared to parental sensitive clones. Cross-resistance to posaconazole and other CYP51 inhibitors, but not to other antichagasic drugs that act independently of CYP51, such as benznidazole and nifurtimox, was also observed. A novel amino acid residue change, T297M, was found in the TcCYP51 gene in the resistant but not in the sensitive clones. The structural effects of the T297M, and of the previously described P355S residue changes, were modelled to understand their impact on interaction with CYP51 inhibitors. A ravuconazole-resistant T. cruzi clone presented reduced in vitro and in vivo fitness. The ravuconazole-resistant clone presented cross-resistance to other CYP51 inhibitors. There was no cross-resistance to benznidazole and nifurtimox. Resistance is associated with a novel structural mutation in the TcCYP51 protein.
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Affiliation(s)
- Caio H Franco
- Laboratório Nacional de Biociências (LNBio), Centro Nacional de Pesquisa em Energia e Materiais (CNPEM), Campinas, SP, Brazil; Department of Microbiology, Institute of Biomedical Sciences, University of São Paulo, São Paulo, SP, Brazil
| | - David C Warhurst
- Department of Infection Biology, Faculty of Infectious and Tropical Diseases, London School of Hygiene and Tropical Medicine, London, UK
| | - Tapan Bhattacharyya
- Department of Infection Biology, Faculty of Infectious and Tropical Diseases, London School of Hygiene and Tropical Medicine, London, UK
| | - Ho Y A Au
- Department of Infection Biology, Faculty of Infectious and Tropical Diseases, London School of Hygiene and Tropical Medicine, London, UK
| | - Hai Le
- Department of Infection Biology, Faculty of Infectious and Tropical Diseases, London School of Hygiene and Tropical Medicine, London, UK
| | - Miriam A Giardini
- Institut Pasteur Korea, Bundang-gu, Seongnam-si, Gyeonggi-do, Republic of Korea
| | - Bruno S Pascoalino
- Laboratório Nacional de Biociências (LNBio), Centro Nacional de Pesquisa em Energia e Materiais (CNPEM), Campinas, SP, Brazil
| | - Ana Claudia Torrecilhas
- Department of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Federal University of São Paulo (UNIFESP), Diadema, SP, Brazil
| | - Lavinia M D Romera
- Department of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Federal University of São Paulo (UNIFESP), Diadema, SP, Brazil
| | - Rafael Pedro Madeira
- Department of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Federal University of São Paulo (UNIFESP), Diadema, SP, Brazil
| | - Sergio Schenkman
- Department of Microbiology, Immunology and Parasitology, UNIFESP, São Paulo, SP, Brazil
| | - Lucio H Freitas-Junior
- Department of Microbiology, Institute of Biomedical Sciences, University of São Paulo, São Paulo, SP, Brazil; Institut Pasteur Korea, Bundang-gu, Seongnam-si, Gyeonggi-do, Republic of Korea
| | - Eric Chatelain
- Drugs for Neglected Diseases Initiative, Geneva, Switzerland
| | - Michael A Miles
- Department of Infection Biology, Faculty of Infectious and Tropical Diseases, London School of Hygiene and Tropical Medicine, London, UK
| | - Carolina B Moraes
- Laboratório Nacional de Biociências (LNBio), Centro Nacional de Pesquisa em Energia e Materiais (CNPEM), Campinas, SP, Brazil; Department of Microbiology, Institute of Biomedical Sciences, University of São Paulo, São Paulo, SP, Brazil; Institut Pasteur Korea, Bundang-gu, Seongnam-si, Gyeonggi-do, Republic of Korea; Department of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Federal University of São Paulo (UNIFESP), Diadema, SP, Brazil.
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Petravicius PO, Costa-Martins AG, Silva MN, Reis-Cunha JL, Bartholomeu DC, Teixeira MM, Zingales B. Mapping benznidazole resistance in trypanosomatids and exploring evolutionary histories of nitroreductases and ABCG transporter protein sequences. Acta Trop 2019; 200:105161. [PMID: 31494121 DOI: 10.1016/j.actatropica.2019.105161] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/25/2019] [Revised: 07/22/2019] [Accepted: 09/03/2019] [Indexed: 12/24/2022]
Abstract
The nitro-heterocyclic compound benznidazole (BZ) is the first-line drug for the treatment of Chagas disease, caused by the protozoan Trypanosoma cruzi. However, therapeutic failures are common for reasons that include the influences of parasite and host genetics, the effects of toxicity on adherence to treatment, and difficulties in demonstrating parasitological cure. To obtain information on the origin of the resistance to BZ and eliminate from the scenery the participation of the host, initially we mapped the susceptibility to the drug in thirteen species of seven genera of the family Trypanosomatidae. We verified that all Trypanosoma species are sensitive to low concentrations of the drug (IC50 2.7 to 25 µM) while Non-Trypanosoma species are highly resistant to these concentrations. The two groups of parasites correspond to the major phylogenetic lineages of trypanosomatids. Next, we searched in the trypanosomatid genome databases homologs of two type-I nitroreductases (NTR-1 and OYE) and an ABC transporter (ABCG1) that have been associated with BZ resistance in T. cruzi. The predicted proteins were characterized regarding domains and used for phylogenetic analyses. Homologous NTR-1 genes were found in all trypanosomatids investigated and the structural characteristics of the enzyme suggest that it may be functional. OYE genes were absent in BZ-sensitive African trypanosomes, which excludes the participation of this enzyme in BZ bio-activation. Two copies of ABCG1 genes were observed in most BZ resistant species, while Trypanosoma species exhibit only one copy per haploid genome. Functional studies are required to verify the involvement of these genes in BZ resistance. In addition, since multiple mechanisms can contribute to BZ susceptibility, our study poses a range of organisms highly resistant to BZ in which these aspects can be investigated. Preliminary studies on BZ uptake indicate marked differences between BZ-sensitive and BZ-resistant species.
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Din ZU, Lazarin-Bidóia D, Kaplum V, Garcia FP, Nakamura CV, Rodrigues-Filho E. The structure design of biotransformed unsymmetrical nitro-contained 1,5-diaryl-3-oxo-1,4-pentadienyls for the anti-parasitic activities. ARAB J CHEM 2019. [DOI: 10.1016/j.arabjc.2016.03.005] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/28/2022] Open
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Patterson S, Fairlamb AH. Current and Future Prospects of Nitro-compounds as Drugs for Trypanosomiasis and Leishmaniasis. Curr Med Chem 2019; 26:4454-4475. [PMID: 29701144 DOI: 10.2174/0929867325666180426164352] [Citation(s) in RCA: 29] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/31/2018] [Revised: 02/01/2018] [Accepted: 04/13/2018] [Indexed: 01/13/2023]
Abstract
Interest in nitroheterocyclic drugs for the treatment of infectious diseases has undergone a resurgence in recent years. Here we review the current status of monocyclic and bicyclic nitroheterocyclic compounds as existing or potential new treatments for visceral leishmaniasis, Chagas' disease and human African trypanosomiasis. Both monocyclic (nifurtimox, benznidazole and fexinidazole) and bicyclic (pretomanid (PA-824) and delamanid (OPC-67683)) nitro-compounds are prodrugs, requiring enzymatic activation to exert their parasite toxicity. Current understanding of the nitroreductases involved in activation and possible mechanisms by which parasites develop resistance is discussed along with a description of the pharmacokinetic / pharmacodynamic behaviour and chemical structure-activity relationships of drugs and experimental compounds.
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Affiliation(s)
- Stephen Patterson
- Division of Biological Chemistry and Drug Discovery, School of Life Sciences, University of Dundee, Dundee, United Kingdom
| | - Alan H Fairlamb
- Division of Biological Chemistry and Drug Discovery, School of Life Sciences, University of Dundee, Dundee, United Kingdom
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Souto EB, Dias-Ferreira J, Craveiro SA, Severino P, Sanchez-Lopez E, Garcia ML, Silva AM, Souto SB, Mahant S. Therapeutic Interventions for Countering Leishmaniasis and Chagas's Disease: From Traditional Sources to Nanotechnological Systems. Pathogens 2019; 8:pathogens8030119. [PMID: 31374930 PMCID: PMC6789685 DOI: 10.3390/pathogens8030119] [Citation(s) in RCA: 15] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/29/2019] [Revised: 07/29/2019] [Accepted: 07/31/2019] [Indexed: 02/02/2023] Open
Abstract
The incidence of neglected diseases in tropical countries, such as Leishmaniasis and Chagas's disease, is attributed to a set of biological and ecological factors associated with the socioeconomic context of developing countries and with a significant burden to health care systems. Both Leishmaniasis and Chagas's disease are caused by different protozoa and develop diverse symptoms, which depend on the specific species infecting man. Currently available drugs to treat these disorders have limited therapeutic outcomes, frequently due to microorganisms' drug resistance. In recent years, significant efforts have been made towards the development of innovative drug delivery systems aiming to improve bioavailability and pharmacokinetic profiles of classical drug therapy. This paper discusses the key facts of Leishmaniasis and Chagas's disease, the currently available pharmacological therapies and the new drug delivery systems for conventional drugs.
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Affiliation(s)
- Eliana B Souto
- Department of Pharmaceutical Technology, Faculty of Pharmacy, University of Coimbra (FFUC), Pólo das Ciências da Saúde, Azinhaga de Santa Comba, 3000-548 Coimbra, Portugal.
- CEB - Centre of Biological Engineering, University of Minho, Campus de Gualtar, 4710-057 Braga, Portugal.
| | - João Dias-Ferreira
- Department of Pharmaceutical Technology, Faculty of Pharmacy, University of Coimbra (FFUC), Pólo das Ciências da Saúde, Azinhaga de Santa Comba, 3000-548 Coimbra, Portugal
| | - Sara A Craveiro
- Faculty of Health Sciences, University Fernando Pessoa, Rua Carlos da Maia, 296, Paranhos, 4200-150 Porto, Portugal
| | - Patrícia Severino
- Laboratory of Nanotechnology and Nanomedicine (LNMED), Institute of Technology and Research (ITP), Av. Murilo Dantas, 300, Aracaju 49010-390, Brazil
- University of Tiradentes (UNIT), Industrial Biotechnology Program, Av. Murilo Dantas 300, Aracaju 49032-490, Brazil
| | - Elena Sanchez-Lopez
- Department of Pharmacy, Pharmaceutical Technology and Physical Chemistry, Faculty of Pharmacy, University of Barcelona, 08028 Barcelona, Spain
- Institute of Nanoscience and Nanotechnology (IN2UB), University of Barcelona, 08028 Barcelona, Spain
- Centro de Investigación Biomédica en Red de Enfermedades Neurodegenerativas (CIBERNED), University of Barcelona, 08028 Barcelona, Spain
| | - Maria L Garcia
- Department of Pharmacy, Pharmaceutical Technology and Physical Chemistry, Faculty of Pharmacy, University of Barcelona, 08028 Barcelona, Spain
- Institute of Nanoscience and Nanotechnology (IN2UB), University of Barcelona, 08028 Barcelona, Spain
- Centro de Investigación Biomédica en Red de Enfermedades Neurodegenerativas (CIBERNED), University of Barcelona, 08028 Barcelona, Spain
| | - Amélia M Silva
- Departamento de Biologia e Ambiente, Universidade de Trás-os-Montes e Alto Douro (UTAD), P.O. Box 1013; 5001-801 Vila Real, Portugal
- Centro de Investigação e de Tecnologias Agro-Ambientais e Biológicas (CITAB-UTAD), 5001-801 Vila Real, Portugal
| | - Selma B Souto
- Department of Endocrinology of Braga Hospital, Sete Fontes, 4710-243 São Victor, Braga, Portugal
| | - Sheefali Mahant
- Department of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Maharshi Dayanand University, Rohtak, Haryana 124001, India
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Carneiro ZA, Lima JC, Lopes CD, Gaspari APS, de Albuquerque S, Dinelli LR, Veloso-Silva LLW, Paganelli MO, Libardi SH, Oliveira CG, Deflon VM, Oliveira RJ, Borges JC, Maia PIS. Heterobimetallic nickel(II) and palladium(II) complexes derived from S-benzyl-N- (ferrocenyl)methylenedithiocarbazate: Trypanocidal activity and interaction with Trypanosoma cruzi Old Yellow Enzyme (TcOYE). Eur J Med Chem 2019; 180:213-223. [PMID: 31306908 DOI: 10.1016/j.ejmech.2019.07.014] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/21/2019] [Revised: 06/10/2019] [Accepted: 07/04/2019] [Indexed: 10/26/2022]
Abstract
Reactions of Ni(II) and Pd(II) precursors with S-benzyl-N-(ferrocenyl)methylenedithiocarbazate (HFedtc) led to the formation of heterobimetallic complexes of the type [MII(Fedtc)2] (M = Ni and Pd). The characterization of the compounds involved the determination of melting point, FTIR, UV-Vis, 1H NMR, elemental analysis and electrochemical experiments. Furthermore, the crystalline structures of HFedtc and [NiII(Fedtc)2] were determined by single crystal X-ray diffraction. The compounds were evaluated against the intracellular form of Trypanosoma cruzi (Tulahuen Lac-Z strain) and the cytotoxicity assays were assessed using LLC-MK2 cells. The results showed that the coordination of HFedtc to Ni(II) or Pd(II) decreases the in vitro trypanocidal activity while the cytotoxicity against LLC-MK2 cells does not change significantly. [PdII(Fedtc)2] showed the greater potential between the two complexes studied, showing an SI value of 8.9. However, this value is not better than that of the free ligand with an SI of 40, a similar value to that of the standard drug benznidazole (SI = 48). Additionally, molecular docking simulations were performed with Trypanosoma cruzi Old Yellow Enzyme (TcOYE), which predicted that HFedtc binds to the protein, almost parallel to the flavin mononucleotide (FMN) prosthetic group, while the [NiII(Fedtc)2] complex was docked into the enzyme binding site in a significantly different manner. In order to confirm the hypothetical interaction, in vitro experiments of fluorescence quenching and enzymatic activity were performed which indicated that, although HFedtc was not processed by the enzyme, it was able to act as a competitive inhibitor, blocking the hydride transfer from the FMN prosthetic group of the enzyme to the menadione substrate.
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Affiliation(s)
- Zumira A Carneiro
- Departamento de Análises Clínicas, Toxicológicas e Bromatológicas, Faculdade de Ciências Farmacêuticas de Ribeirão Preto - FCFRP-USP, Universidade de São Paulo, Avenida do Café s/n, 14040-903, Ribeirão Preto, SP, Brazil
| | - Jackelinne C Lima
- Núcleo de Desenvolvimento de Compostos Bioativos (NDCBio), Universidade Federal do Triângulo Mineiro, Av. Dr. Randolfo Borges 1400, 38025-440, Uberaba, MG, Brazil
| | - Carla D Lopes
- Departamento de Análises Clínicas, Toxicológicas e Bromatológicas, Faculdade de Ciências Farmacêuticas de Ribeirão Preto - FCFRP-USP, Universidade de São Paulo, Avenida do Café s/n, 14040-903, Ribeirão Preto, SP, Brazil
| | - Ana P S Gaspari
- Instituto Federal do Paraná - Campus Paranavaí, Av. José Felipe Tequinha, 1400, 87703-536, Paranavaí, PR, Brazil
| | - Sergio de Albuquerque
- Departamento de Análises Clínicas, Toxicológicas e Bromatológicas, Faculdade de Ciências Farmacêuticas de Ribeirão Preto - FCFRP-USP, Universidade de São Paulo, Avenida do Café s/n, 14040-903, Ribeirão Preto, SP, Brazil
| | - Luis R Dinelli
- Faculdade de Ciências Integrada do Pontal, Universidade Federal de Uberlândia, Rua vinte, 1600, 38304-402, Ituiutaba, MG, Brazil
| | - Laudimir L W Veloso-Silva
- São Carlos Institute of Chemistry, University of São Paulo, São Carlos, SP, P.O. Box 780, 13560-970, Brazil
| | - Marcella O Paganelli
- São Carlos Institute of Chemistry, University of São Paulo, São Carlos, SP, P.O. Box 780, 13560-970, Brazil
| | - Silvia H Libardi
- São Carlos Institute of Chemistry, University of São Paulo, São Carlos, SP, P.O. Box 780, 13560-970, Brazil
| | - Carolina G Oliveira
- Instituto de Química, Universidade Federal de Uberlândia, Av. João Naves de Ávila 2121, 38400-902, Uberlândia, MG, Brazil
| | - Victor M Deflon
- São Carlos Institute of Chemistry, University of São Paulo, São Carlos, SP, P.O. Box 780, 13560-970, Brazil
| | - Ronaldo J Oliveira
- Núcleo de Desenvolvimento de Compostos Bioativos (NDCBio), Universidade Federal do Triângulo Mineiro, Av. Dr. Randolfo Borges 1400, 38025-440, Uberaba, MG, Brazil
| | - Júlio C Borges
- São Carlos Institute of Chemistry, University of São Paulo, São Carlos, SP, P.O. Box 780, 13560-970, Brazil
| | - Pedro I S Maia
- Núcleo de Desenvolvimento de Compostos Bioativos (NDCBio), Universidade Federal do Triângulo Mineiro, Av. Dr. Randolfo Borges 1400, 38025-440, Uberaba, MG, Brazil.
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Phenothiazinium Dyes Are Active against Trypanosoma cruzi In Vitro. BIOMED RESEARCH INTERNATIONAL 2019; 2019:8301569. [PMID: 31355283 PMCID: PMC6637691 DOI: 10.1155/2019/8301569] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/01/2019] [Revised: 05/10/2019] [Accepted: 06/10/2019] [Indexed: 12/29/2022]
Abstract
Chagas disease is a tropical illness caused by the protozoan Trypanosoma cruzi. The disease affects populations of the Americas and has been spread to other continents due to the migration process. The disease is partially controlled by two drugs, Benznidazole and Nifurtimox. These molecules are active in the acute phase of the infection but are usually ineffective during the symptomatic chronic phase. Several research groups have developed novel candidates to control Chagas disease; however, no novel commercial formulation is available. In this article, we described the anti-T. cruzi effects of phenothiazinium dyes in amastigote and trypomastigote forms of the parasite. Methylene Blue, New Methylene Blue, Toluidine Blue O, and 1,9-Dimethyl Methylene Blue inhibited the parasite proliferation at nanomolar concentrations and also demonstrated low toxicity in host cells. Moreover, combinations of phenothiazinium dyes indicated a synergic pattern against amastigotes compared to the Benznidazole counterparts. Phenothiazinium dyes levels of reactive oxygen species (ROS) and decreased the mitochondrial potential in trypomastigotes, indicating the mechanism of action of the dyes in T. cruzi. Our article offers a basis for future strategies for the control of Chagas disease using low-cost formulations, an important point for endemic underdeveloped regions.
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dos Santos Silva AM, de Caland LB, de Melo Doro PN, de S. L. Oliveira ALC, de Araújo-Júnior RF, Fernandes-Pedrosa MF, do Egito EST, da Silva-Junior AA. Hydrophilic and hydrophobic polymeric benznidazole-loaded nanoparticles: Physicochemical properties and in vitro antitumor efficacy. J Drug Deliv Sci Technol 2019. [DOI: 10.1016/j.jddst.2019.04.005] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/22/2023]
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Mercaldi GF, D'Antonio EL, Aguessi A, Rodriguez A, Cordeiro AT. Discovery of antichagasic inhibitors by high-throughput screening with Trypanosoma cruzi glucokinase. Bioorg Med Chem Lett 2019; 29:1948-1953. [PMID: 31133533 DOI: 10.1016/j.bmcl.2019.05.037] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/19/2019] [Revised: 05/17/2019] [Accepted: 05/18/2019] [Indexed: 12/14/2022]
Abstract
A high-throughput screening (HTS) campaign was carried out for Trypanosoma cruzi glucokinase (TcGlcK), a potential drug-target of the pathogenic protozoan parasite. Glycolysis and the pentose phosphate pathway (PPP) are important metabolic pathways for T. cruzi and the inhibition of the glucose kinases (i.e. glucokinase and hexokinase) may be a strategic approach for drug discovery. Glucose kinases phosphorylate d-glucose with co-substrate ATP to yield G6P, and moreover, the produced G6P enters both pathways for catabolism. The TcGlcK - HTS campaign revealed 25 novel enzyme inhibitors that were distributed in nine chemical classes and were discovered from a primary screen of 13,040 compounds. Thirteen of these compounds were found to have low micromolar IC50 enzyme - inhibition values; strikingly, four of those compounds exhibited low toxicity towards NIH-3T3 murine host cells and notable in vitro trypanocidal activity. These compounds were of three chemical classes: (a) the 3-nitro-2-phenyl-2H-chromene scaffold, (b) the N-phenyl-benzenesulfonamide scaffold, and (c) the gossypol scaffold. Two compounds from the 3-nitro-2-phenyl-2H-chromene scaffold were determined to be hit-to-lead candidates that can proceed further down the early-stage drug discovery process.
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Affiliation(s)
- Gustavo F Mercaldi
- Brazilian Center for Research in Energy and Materials, Brazilian Biosciences National Laboratory, Campinas, SP 13083-970, Brazil
| | - Edward L D'Antonio
- Department of Natural Sciences, University of South Carolina Beaufort, 1 University Boulevard, Bluffton, SC 29909, USA.
| | - Annelie Aguessi
- Department of Microbiology, New York University School of Medicine, 430 East 29th Street, New York, NY 10016, USA
| | - Ana Rodriguez
- Department of Microbiology, New York University School of Medicine, 430 East 29th Street, New York, NY 10016, USA
| | - Artur T Cordeiro
- Brazilian Center for Research in Energy and Materials, Brazilian Biosciences National Laboratory, Campinas, SP 13083-970, Brazil
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48
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Dehydrodieugenol B derivatives as antiparasitic agents: Synthesis and biological activity against Trypanosoma cruzi. Eur J Med Chem 2019; 176:162-174. [PMID: 31103897 DOI: 10.1016/j.ejmech.2019.05.001] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/26/2019] [Revised: 04/30/2019] [Accepted: 05/01/2019] [Indexed: 01/02/2023]
Abstract
Chagas disease is a neglected protozoan disease that affects more than eight million people in developing countries. Due to the limited number and toxicity profiles of therapies in current use, new drugs are urgently needed. In previous studies, we reported the isolation of two related antitrypanosomal neolignans from Nectandra leucantha (Lauraceae). In this work, a semi-synthetic library of twenty-three neolignan derivatives was prepared to explore synthetically accessible structure activity relationships (SAR) against Trypanosoma cruzi. Five compounds demonstrated activity against trypomastigotes (IC50 values from 8 to 64 μM) and eight showed activity against intracellular amastigotes (IC50 values from 7 to 16 μM). Eighteen derivatives demonstrated no mammalian cytotoxicity up to 200 μM. The phenolic acetate derivative of natural dehydrodieugenol B was effective against both parasite forms and eliminated 100% of amastigotes inside macrophages. This compound caused rapid and intense depolarization of the mitochondrial membrane potential, with decreased levels of intracellular reactive oxygen species being observed. Fluorescence assays demonstrated that this derivative affected neither the permeability nor the electric potential of the parasitic plasma membrane, an effect also corroborated by scanning electron microscopy studies. Structure-activity relationship studies (SARs) demonstrated that the presence of at least one allyl side chain on the biaryl ether core was important for antitrypanosomal activity, and that the free phenol is not essential. This set of neolignan derivatives represents a promising starting point for future Chagas disease drug discovery studies.
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Martín-Escolano R, Cebrián R, Martín-Escolano J, Rosales MJ, Maqueda M, Sánchez-Moreno M, Marín C. Insights into Chagas treatment based on the potential of bacteriocin AS-48. INTERNATIONAL JOURNAL FOR PARASITOLOGY-DRUGS AND DRUG RESISTANCE 2019; 10:1-8. [PMID: 30953804 PMCID: PMC6447751 DOI: 10.1016/j.ijpddr.2019.03.003] [Citation(s) in RCA: 13] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/01/2019] [Accepted: 03/26/2019] [Indexed: 02/01/2023]
Abstract
Chagas disease caused by the protozoan parasite Trypanosoma cruzi represents a significant public health problem in Latin America, affecting around 8 million cases worldwide. Nowadays is urgent the identification of new antichagasic agents as the only therapeutic options available, Nifurtimox and Benznidazole, are in use for >40 years, and present high toxicity, limited efficacy and frequent treatment failures in the chronic phase of the disease. Recently, it has been described the antiparasitic effect of AS-48, a bacteriocin produced by Enterococcus faecalis, against Trypanosoma brucei and Leishmania spp. In this work, we have demonstrated the in vitro potential of the AS-48 bacteriocin against T. cruzi. Interesting, AS-48 was more effective against the three morphological forms of different T. cruzi strains, and displayed lower cytotoxicity than the reference drug Benznidazole. In addition, AS-48 combines the criteria established as a potential antichagasic agent, resulting in a promising therapeutic alternative. According to the action mechanism, AS-48 trypanocidal activity could be explained in a mitochondrion-dependent manner through a reactive oxygen species production and mitochondrial depolarization, causing a fast and severe bioenergetic collapse.
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Affiliation(s)
- Rubén Martín-Escolano
- Department of Parasitology, Instituto de Investigación Biosanitaria (ibs.Granada), Hospitales Universitarios De Granada/University of Granada, Severo Ochoa S/n, E-18071, Granada, Spain
| | - Rubén Cebrián
- Department of Microbiology, Faculty of Sciences. C/ Fuentenueva S/n. University of Granada, Severo Ochoa /n, 18071, Granada, Spain
| | - Javier Martín-Escolano
- Department of Parasitology, Instituto de Investigación Biosanitaria (ibs.Granada), Hospitales Universitarios De Granada/University of Granada, Severo Ochoa S/n, E-18071, Granada, Spain
| | - Maria J Rosales
- Department of Parasitology, Instituto de Investigación Biosanitaria (ibs.Granada), Hospitales Universitarios De Granada/University of Granada, Severo Ochoa S/n, E-18071, Granada, Spain
| | - Mercedes Maqueda
- Department of Microbiology, Faculty of Sciences. C/ Fuentenueva S/n. University of Granada, Severo Ochoa /n, 18071, Granada, Spain
| | - Manuel Sánchez-Moreno
- Department of Parasitology, Instituto de Investigación Biosanitaria (ibs.Granada), Hospitales Universitarios De Granada/University of Granada, Severo Ochoa S/n, E-18071, Granada, Spain
| | - Clotilde Marín
- Department of Parasitology, Instituto de Investigación Biosanitaria (ibs.Granada), Hospitales Universitarios De Granada/University of Granada, Severo Ochoa S/n, E-18071, Granada, Spain.
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Could angiotensin-modulating drugs be relevant for the treatment of Trypanosoma cruzi infection? A systematic review of preclinical and clinical evidence. Parasitology 2019; 146:914-927. [DOI: 10.1017/s003118201900009x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/02/2023]
Abstract
AbstractAlthough leucocytes are targets of renin-angiotensin system (RAS) effector molecules and RAS-modulating drugs exert immunomodulatory effects, their impact onTrypanosoma cruziinfection remains poorly understood. By using the framework of a systematic review, we integrated the preclinical and clinical evidence to investigate the relevance of angiotensin-inhibiting drugs onT. cruziinfections. From a comprehensive and structured search in biomedical databases, only original studies were analysed. In preclinical and clinical studies, captopril, enalapril and losartan were RAS-modulating drugs used. The mainin vitrofindings indicated that these drugs increased parasite uptake per host cells, IL-12 expression by infected dendritic cells and IFN-γby T lymphocytes, in addition to attenuating IL-10 and IL-17 production by CD8 + T cells. In animal models, reduced parasitaemia, tissue parasitism, leucocytes infiltration and mortality were often observed inT. cruzi-infected animals receiving RAS-modulating drugs. In patients with Chagas’ disease, these drugs exerted a controversial impact on cytokine and hormone levels, and a limited effect on cardiovascular function. Considering a detailed evaluation of reporting and methodological quality, the current preclinical and clinical evidence is at high risk of bias, and we hope that our critical analysis will be useful in mitigating the risk of bias in further studies.
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