1
|
Bava R, Castagna F, Lupia C, Poerio G, Liguori G, Lombardi R, Naturale MD, Bulotta RM, Biondi V, Passantino A, Britti D, Statti G, Palma E. Hive Products: Composition, Pharmacological Properties, and Therapeutic Applications. Pharmaceuticals (Basel) 2024; 17:646. [PMID: 38794216 PMCID: PMC11124102 DOI: 10.3390/ph17050646] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/15/2024] [Revised: 05/03/2024] [Accepted: 05/10/2024] [Indexed: 05/26/2024] Open
Abstract
Beekeeping provides products with nutraceutical and pharmaceutical characteristics. These products are characterized by abundance of bioactive compounds. For different reasons, honey, royal jelly, propolis, venom, and pollen are beneficial to humans and animals and could be used as therapeutics. The pharmacological action of these products is related to many of their constituents. The main bioactive components of honey include oligosaccharides, methylglyoxal, royal jelly proteins (MRJPs), and phenolics compounds. Royal jelly contains jelleins, royalisin peptides, MRJPs, and derivatives of hydroxy-decenoic acid, particularly 10-hydroxy-2-decenoic acid (10-HDA), which possess antibacterial, anti-inflammatory, immunomodulatory, neuromodulatory, metabolic syndrome-preventing, and anti-aging properties. Propolis has a plethora of activities that are referable to compounds such as caffeic acid phenethyl ester. Peptides found in bee venom include phospholipase A2, apamin, and melittin. In addition to being vitamin-rich, bee pollen also includes unsaturated fatty acids, sterols, and phenolics compounds that express antiatherosclerotic, antidiabetic, and anti-inflammatory properties. Therefore, the constituents of hive products are particular and different. All of these constituents have been investigated for their properties in numerous research studies. This review aims to provide a thorough screening of the bioactive chemicals found in honeybee products and their beneficial biological effects. The manuscript may provide impetus to the branch of unconventional medicine that goes by the name of apitherapy.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Roberto Bava
- Department of Health Sciences, University of Catanzaro Magna Græcia, 88100 Catanzaro, Italy; (R.B.); (C.L.); (R.M.B.); (D.B.); (E.P.)
| | - Fabio Castagna
- Department of Health Sciences, University of Catanzaro Magna Græcia, 88100 Catanzaro, Italy; (R.B.); (C.L.); (R.M.B.); (D.B.); (E.P.)
- Mediterranean Ethnobotanical Conservatory, Sersale (CZ), 88054 Catanzaro, Italy
| | - Carmine Lupia
- Department of Health Sciences, University of Catanzaro Magna Græcia, 88100 Catanzaro, Italy; (R.B.); (C.L.); (R.M.B.); (D.B.); (E.P.)
- Mediterranean Ethnobotanical Conservatory, Sersale (CZ), 88054 Catanzaro, Italy
| | - Giusi Poerio
- ATS Val Padana, Via dei Toscani, 46100 Mantova, Italy;
| | | | - Renato Lombardi
- IRCCS Casa Sollievo della Sofferenza, San Giovanni Rotondo (FG), 71013 Foggia, Italy;
| | - Maria Diana Naturale
- Ministry of Health, Directorate General for Health Programming, 00144 Rome, Italy;
| | - Rosa Maria Bulotta
- Department of Health Sciences, University of Catanzaro Magna Græcia, 88100 Catanzaro, Italy; (R.B.); (C.L.); (R.M.B.); (D.B.); (E.P.)
| | - Vito Biondi
- Department of Veterinary Sciences, University of Messina, 98168 Messina, Italy; (V.B.); (A.P.)
| | - Annamaria Passantino
- Department of Veterinary Sciences, University of Messina, 98168 Messina, Italy; (V.B.); (A.P.)
| | - Domenico Britti
- Department of Health Sciences, University of Catanzaro Magna Græcia, 88100 Catanzaro, Italy; (R.B.); (C.L.); (R.M.B.); (D.B.); (E.P.)
| | - Giancarlo Statti
- Department of Pharmacy, Health and Nutritional Sciences, University of Calabria, Rende, 87036 Cosenza, Italy;
| | - Ernesto Palma
- Department of Health Sciences, University of Catanzaro Magna Græcia, 88100 Catanzaro, Italy; (R.B.); (C.L.); (R.M.B.); (D.B.); (E.P.)
- Center for Pharmacological Research, Food Safety, High Tech and Health (IRC-FSH), University of Catanzaro Magna Græcia, 88100 Catanzaro, Italy
| |
Collapse
|
2
|
Stephani J, Gerhards L, Khairalla B, Solov’yov IA, Brand I. How do Antimicrobial Peptides Interact with the Outer Membrane of Gram-Negative Bacteria? Role of Lipopolysaccharides in Peptide Binding, Anchoring, and Penetration. ACS Infect Dis 2024; 10:763-778. [PMID: 38259029 PMCID: PMC10862549 DOI: 10.1021/acsinfecdis.3c00673] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/05/2023] [Revised: 12/31/2023] [Accepted: 01/02/2024] [Indexed: 01/24/2024]
Abstract
Gram-negative bacteria possess a complex structural cell envelope that constitutes a barrier for antimicrobial peptides that neutralize the microbes by disrupting their cell membranes. Computational and experimental approaches were used to study a model outer membrane interaction with an antimicrobial peptide, melittin. The investigated membrane included di[3-deoxy-d-manno-octulosonyl]-lipid A (KLA) in the outer leaflet and 1-palmitoyl-2-oleoyl-sn-glycero-3-phosphoethanolamine (POPE) in the inner leaflet. Molecular dynamics simulations revealed that the positively charged helical C-terminus of melittin anchors rapidly into the hydrophilic headgroup region of KLA, while the flexible N-terminus makes contacts with the phosphate groups of KLA, supporting melittin penetration into the boundary between the hydrophilic and hydrophobic regions of the lipids. Electrochemical techniques confirmed the binding of melittin to the model membrane. To probe the peptide conformation and orientation during interaction with the membrane, polarization modulation infrared reflection absorption spectroscopy was used. The measurements revealed conformational changes in the peptide, accompanied by reorientation and translocation of the peptide at the membrane surface. The study suggests that melittin insertion into the outer membrane affects its permeability and capacitance but does not disturb the membrane's bilayer structure, indicating a distinct mechanism of the peptide action on the outer membrane of Gram-negative bacteria.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Justus
C. Stephani
- Institute
of Physics, Carl von Ossietzky University
of Oldenburg, 26111 Oldenburg, Germany
| | - Luca Gerhards
- Institute
of Physics, Carl von Ossietzky University
of Oldenburg, 26111 Oldenburg, Germany
| | - Bishoy Khairalla
- Department
of Chemistry, Carl von Ossietzky University
of Oldenburg, 26111 Oldenburg, Germany
| | - Ilia A. Solov’yov
- Institute
of Physics, Carl von Ossietzky University
of Oldenburg, 26111 Oldenburg, Germany
- Research
Center Neurosensory Science, Carl von Ossietzky
University of Oldenburg, 26111 Oldenburg, Germany
- CeNaD—Center
for Nanoscale Dynamics, Carl von Ossietzky
University of Oldenburg, 26111 Oldenburg, Germany
| | - Izabella Brand
- Department
of Chemistry, Carl von Ossietzky University
of Oldenburg, 26111 Oldenburg, Germany
| |
Collapse
|
3
|
Haque S, Hussain A, Joshi H, Sharma U, Sharma B, Aggarwal D, Rani I, Ramniwas S, Gupta M, Tuli HS. Melittin: a possible regulator of cancer proliferation in preclinical cell culture and animal models. J Cancer Res Clin Oncol 2023; 149:17709-17726. [PMID: 37919474 DOI: 10.1007/s00432-023-05458-8] [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: 07/18/2023] [Accepted: 10/03/2023] [Indexed: 11/04/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Melittin is a water-soluble cationic peptide derived from bee venom that has been thoroughly studied for the cure of different cancers. However, the unwanted interactions of melittin produce hemolytic and cytotoxic effects that hinder their therapeutic applications. To overcome the shortcomings, numerous research groups have adopted different approaches, including conjugation with tumor-targeting proteins, gene therapy, and encapsulation in nanoparticles, to reduce the non-specific cytotoxic effects and potentiate their anti-cancerous activity. PURPOSE This article aims to provide mechanistic insights into the chemopreventive activity of melittin and its nanoversion in combination with standard anti-cancer drugs for the treatment of cancer. METHODS We looked over the pertinent research on melittin's chemopreventive properties in online databases such as PubMed and Scopus. CONCLUSION In the present article, the anti-cancerous effects of melittin on different cancers have been discussed very nicely, as have their possible mechanisms of action to act against different tumors. Besides, it interacts with different signal molecules that regulate the diverse pathways of cancerous cells, such as cell cycle arrest, apoptosis, metastasis, angiogenesis, and inflammation. We also discussed the recent progress in the synergistic combination of melittin with standard anti-cancer drugs and a nano-formulated version of melittin for targeted delivery to improve its anticancer potential.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Shafiul Haque
- Research and Scientific Studies Unit, College of Nursing and Allied Health Sciences, Jazan University, 45142, Jazan, Saudi Arabia
- Gilbert and Rose-Marie Chagoury School of Medicine, Lebanese American University, Beirut, 11022801, Lebanon
- Centre of Medical and Bio-Allied Health Sciences Research, Ajman University, 13306, Ajman, United Arab Emirates
| | - Arif Hussain
- School of Life Sciences, Manipal Academy of Higher Education, P.O. Box 345050, Dubai, United Arab Emirates
| | - Hemant Joshi
- School of Biotechnology, Jawaharlal Nehru University, New Delhi, 110067, India.
| | - Ujjawal Sharma
- Department of Human Genetics and Molecular Medicine, School of Health Sciences, Central University of Punjab, Bathinda, Punjab, 151401, India
| | - Bunty Sharma
- Department of Bio-Sciences and Technology, Maharishi Markandeshwar Engineering College, Maharishi Markandeshwar (Deemed to be University), Mullana, Ambala, 133207, India
| | - Diwakar Aggarwal
- Department of Bio-Sciences and Technology, Maharishi Markandeshwar Engineering College, Maharishi Markandeshwar (Deemed to be University), Mullana, Ambala, 133207, India
| | - Isha Rani
- Department of Biochemistry, Maharishi Markendashwar College of Medical Sciences and Research (MMCMSR), Sadopur, Ambala, 134007, India
| | - Seema Ramniwas
- University Centre for Research and Development, University Institute of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Chandigarh University, Gharuan, Mohali, 140413, India
| | - Madhu Gupta
- Department of Pharmaceutics, School of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Delhi Pharmaceutical Sciences and Research University, Pushp Vihar, New Delhi, 110017, India
| | - Hardeep Singh Tuli
- Department of Bio-Sciences and Technology, Maharishi Markandeshwar Engineering College, Maharishi Markandeshwar (Deemed to be University), Mullana, Ambala, 133207, India.
| |
Collapse
|
4
|
Li M, Gasanoff ES. Cationic Proteins Rich in Lysine Residue Trigger Formation of Non-bilayer Lipid Phases in Model and Biological Membranes: Biophysical Methods of Study. J Membr Biol 2023; 256:373-391. [PMID: 37735238 DOI: 10.1007/s00232-023-00292-y] [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: 06/17/2023] [Accepted: 09/05/2023] [Indexed: 09/23/2023]
Abstract
Cationic membrane-active toxins are the most abundant group of proteins in the venom of snakes and insects. Cationic proteins such as cobra venom cytotoxin and bee venom melittin are known for their pharmacological reactions including anticancer and antimicrobial effects which arise from the toxin-induced alteration in the dynamics and structure of plasma membranes and membranes of organelles. It has been established that these cationic toxins trigger the formation of non-bilayer lipid phase transitions in artificial and native mitochondrial membranes. Remarkably, the toxin-induced formation of non-bilayer lipid phase increases at certain conditions mitochondrial ATP synthase activity. This observation opens an intriguing avenue for using cationic toxins in the development of novel drugs for the treatment of cellular energy deficiency caused by aging and diseases. This observation also warrants a thorough investigation of the molecular mechanism(s) of lipid phase polymorphisms triggered by cationic proteins. This article presents a review on the application of powerful biophysical methods such as resonance spectroscopy (31P-, 1H-, 2H-nuclear magnetic resonance, and electron paramagnetic resonance), luminescence, and differential scanning microcalorimetry in studies of non-bilayer lipid phase transitions triggered by cationic proteins in artificial and biological membranes. A phenomenon of the triggered by cationic proteins the non-bilayer lipid phase transitions occurring within 10-2-10-11 s is discussed in the context of potential pharmacological applications of cationic proteins. Next to the ATP dimer is an inverted micelle made of cardiolipin that serves as a vehicle for the transport of H+ ions from the intra-crista space to the matrix. It is proposed that such inverted micelles are triggered by the high density of H+ ions and the cationic proteins rich in lysine residue which compete with the conserved lysine residues of the ATP synthase rotor for binding to cardiolipin in the inner mitochondrial membrane and perturb the bilayer lipid packing of cristae. Phospholipids with a blue polar head represent cardiolipin and those with a red polar head represent other phospholipids found in the crista membrane.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Meiyi Li
- STEM Research Centre, Science Department, Chaoyang Kaiwen Academy, Beijing, 100018, China
| | - Edward S Gasanoff
- STEM Research Centre, Science Department, Chaoyang Kaiwen Academy, Beijing, 100018, China.
- Belozersky Institute of Physico-Chemical Biology, M.V. Lomonosov Moscow State University, Moscow, 119991, Russia.
| |
Collapse
|
5
|
Harfmann D, Florea A. Experimental envenomation with honeybee venom melittin and phospholipase A2 induced multiple ultrastructural changes in adrenocortical mitochondria. Toxicon 2023; 229:107136. [PMID: 37116588 DOI: 10.1016/j.toxicon.2023.107136] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/27/2023] [Revised: 04/25/2023] [Accepted: 04/25/2023] [Indexed: 04/30/2023]
Abstract
Bee stings represent a public health subject, but the mechanisms involved in bee venom toxicity are not yet fully understood. To evaluate the reactions of adrenocortical cells, through which organisms respond to stress, two honeybee venom components: melittin (Mlt) and phospholipase A2 (PLA2) were tested as potential chemical stressors. Modifications were investigated with transmission electron microscopy and microanalysis. A single dose of Mlt (31 mg/kg) or PLA2 (9.3 mg/kg) was injected in rats of groups ML and PL; daily doses of Mlt (350 μg/kg) or PLA2 (105 μg/kg) were injected 30 days in rats of groups M30 and P30. Adrenocortical cells in ML group showed ultrastructural degenerative alterations of nuclei, endoplasmic reticulum, and mitochondria that exhibited lipid inclusions and mitochondrial cristae (MC) re-organized into mono- or multimembrane large vesicles, and whorls of membranes. Many MC were degenerated. In the M30 group, similar ultrastructural changes, but of lower amplitude were noted; lipid cytosolic droplets were heterogenous. MC diameters in Mlt groups (melittin treated groups) were significantly higher than in control (C) group. In PL group, mitochondria contained large lipid inclusions, vesicular MC of different sizes and multiple membranes, and debris, or whorl structures. In P30 group MC were tubular with increased diameters. In both PLA2 groups (PLA2 treated groups) MC were significantly larger than in C group. We concluded that Mlt and PLA2 were powerful stressors, toxic at the tested doses, cellular reactions concerning in all groups mainly mitochondria, but also other cellular compartments. Apart from degenerative regression of MC, the rearrangement of tubular MC occurred into one or multiple large multimembrane vesicular MC. Reactions to the high doses were more pronounced, with the highest amplitude in ML group, and the lowest in P30 group.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Diana Harfmann
- Department of Cell and Molecular Biology, Faculty of Medicine, "Iuliu Hațieganu" University of Medicine and Pharmacy, Cluj-Napoca, Romania
| | - Adrian Florea
- Department of Cell and Molecular Biology, Faculty of Medicine, "Iuliu Hațieganu" University of Medicine and Pharmacy, Cluj-Napoca, Romania.
| |
Collapse
|
6
|
Naito A, Kawamura I. Dynamic membrane interaction and amyloid fibril formation of glucagon, melittin and human calcitonin. Biophys Chem 2023; 298:107025. [PMID: 37127008 DOI: 10.1016/j.bpc.2023.107025] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/01/2023] [Revised: 04/20/2023] [Accepted: 04/21/2023] [Indexed: 05/03/2023]
Abstract
Glucagon is a 29-amino acid peptide hormone secreted by pancreatic α-cells and interacts with specific receptors located in various organs. Glucagon tends to form gel-like fibril aggregates that are cytotoxic. It is important to reveal the glucagon-membrane interaction to understand activity and cytotoxicity of glucagon and glucagon oligomers. In this review, first glucagon-membrane interactions are described as morphological changes in dimyristoylphosphatidylcholine (DMPC) bilayers containing glucagon in acidic and neutral conditions as compared to the case of melittin. Second, fibril formation by glucagon in acidic solution is discussed in light of morphological and structural changes. Third, kinetic analysis of glucagon fibril formation was performed using a two-step autocatalytic reaction mechanism, as investigated in the case of human calcitonin. The first step is a nuclear formation, and the second step is an autocatalytic fibril elongation. Forth, fibril formation of glucagon inside glucagon-DMPC bilayers in neutral solution under near physiological condition is described.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Akira Naito
- Graduate School of Engineering, Yokohama National University, Yokohama 240-8501, Japan.
| | - Izuru Kawamura
- Graduate School of Engineering, Yokohama National University, Yokohama 240-8501, Japan
| |
Collapse
|
7
|
Doltchinkova V, Kitanova M, Nikolov R, Stoyanova-Ivanova A, Petkov O, Dikova Y, Vitkova V. Erythrocyte Membrane Biophysical Changes Mediated by Pooled Immunoglobulin G and Hematin: Electrokinetic and Lipid Peroxidation Studies. MEMBRANES 2023; 13:281. [PMID: 36984668 PMCID: PMC10056742 DOI: 10.3390/membranes13030281] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/29/2022] [Revised: 02/04/2023] [Accepted: 02/23/2023] [Indexed: 06/18/2023]
Abstract
Pooled Immunoglobulin G (IgG), hematin and the membrane-disruptive amphipathic peptide melittin have received attention as powerful biomacromolecules for biomedical and pharmacology applications. Their action on surface properties, oxidation status and epifluorescence properties measured in vitro provide useful information about the functional activity of upper biomacromolecules in erythrocytes in vivo. The hemolysis of erythrocyte membranes, as well as changes in hematocrit and the morphology of erythrocytes, was investigated here via fluorescence microscopy using FITC-concanavalin A binding to cells. The effect of melittin on the membrane capacitance and resistance of model lipid bilayers was probed via electrochemical impedance spectroscopy. Lipid bilayer capacitance was higher in the presence of 0.10 g/L melittin compared to that in the control, which is likely related to bilayer thinning and alterations of the dielectric permittivity of melittin-treated membranes. The biomolecule interactions with red blood cells were probed in physiological media in which the surface of erythrocyte membranes was negatively charged. Surface parameters of erythrocytes are reported upon IgG/hematin and IgG/melittin treatment. Pooled IgG in the presence of melittin, preincubated IgG/hematin preparations promoted a significant decrease in the electrokinetic potential of erythrocytes (Rh-positive). A malondialdehyde (MDA) assay revealed a high rate of lipid peroxidation in erythrocytes treated with IgG/hematin or IgG/melittin preparations. This finding might be a result of pooled IgG interactions with the hematin molecule and the subsequent conformational changes in the protein molecule altering the electrokinetic properties of the erythrocyte membrane related to the Rh group type of erythrocytes. The pooled IgG and hematin are reported to have important consequences for the biophysical understanding of the immunopathological mechanisms of inflammatory, autoimmune and antibody-mediated pathological processes.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Virjinia Doltchinkova
- Department of Biophysics and Radiobiology, Faculty of Biology, Sofia University “St. Kliment Ohridski”, 8 Dragan Tzankov blvd., 1164 Sofia, Bulgaria
| | - Meglena Kitanova
- Department of Genetics, Faculty of Biology, Sofia University “St. Kliment Ohridski”, 8 Dragan Tzankov blvd., 1164 Sofia, Bulgaria
| | - Rumen Nikolov
- Faculty of Mechanical Engineering, Technical University of Sofia, 8 Kl. Ohridski blvd., 1784 Sofia, Bulgaria
| | - Angelina Stoyanova-Ivanova
- Georgi Nadjakov Institute of Solid State Physics, Bulgarian Academy of Sciences, 72 Tsarigradsko Chaussee blvd., 1784 Sofia, Bulgaria
| | - Ognyan Petkov
- Georgi Nadjakov Institute of Solid State Physics, Bulgarian Academy of Sciences, 72 Tsarigradsko Chaussee blvd., 1784 Sofia, Bulgaria
| | - Yoana Dikova
- Department of Biophysics and Radiobiology, Faculty of Biology, Sofia University “St. Kliment Ohridski”, 8 Dragan Tzankov blvd., 1164 Sofia, Bulgaria
| | - Victoria Vitkova
- Georgi Nadjakov Institute of Solid State Physics, Bulgarian Academy of Sciences, 72 Tsarigradsko Chaussee blvd., 1784 Sofia, Bulgaria
| |
Collapse
|
8
|
Therapeutic Use of Bee Venom and Potential Applications in Veterinary Medicine. Vet Sci 2023; 10:vetsci10020119. [PMID: 36851423 PMCID: PMC9965945 DOI: 10.3390/vetsci10020119] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 8.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/30/2022] [Revised: 01/23/2023] [Accepted: 02/02/2023] [Indexed: 02/08/2023] Open
Abstract
Apitherapy is a branch of alternative medicine that consists of the treatment of diseases through products collected, processed, and secreted by bees, specifically pollen, propolis, honey, royal jelly, and bee venom. In traditional medicine, the virtues of honey and propolis have been well-known for centuries. The same, however, cannot be said for venom. The use of bee venom is particularly relevant for many therapeutic aspects. In recent decades, scientific studies have confirmed and enabled us to understand its properties. Bee venom has anti-inflammatory, antioxidant, central nervous system inhibiting, radioprotective, antibacterial, antiviral, and antifungal properties, among others. Numerous studies have often been summarised in reviews of the scientific literature that have focused on the results obtained with mouse models and their subsequent transposition to the human patient. In contrast, few reviews of scientific work on the use of bee venom in veterinary medicine exist. This review aims to take stock of the research achievements in this particular discipline, with a view to a recapitulation and stabilisation in the different research fields.
Collapse
|
9
|
Gabriel JM, Tan T, Rinauro DJ, Hsu CM, Buettner CJ, Gilmer M, Kaur A, McKenzie TL, Park M, Cohen S, Errico S, Wright AK, Chiti F, Vendruscolo M, Limbocker R. EGCG inactivates a pore-forming toxin by promoting its oligomerization and decreasing its solvent-exposed hydrophobicity. Chem Biol Interact 2023; 371:110307. [PMID: 36535315 DOI: 10.1016/j.cbi.2022.110307] [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: 09/18/2022] [Revised: 12/02/2022] [Accepted: 12/14/2022] [Indexed: 12/23/2022]
Abstract
Natural proteinaceous pore-forming agents can bind and permeabilize cell membranes, leading to ion dyshomeostasis and cell death. In the search for antidotes that can protect cells from peptide toxins, we discovered that the polyphenol epigallocatechin gallate (EGCG) interacts directly with melittin from honeybee venom, resulting in the elimination of its binding to the cell membrane and toxicity by markedly lowering the extent of its solvent-exposed hydrophobicity and promoting its oligomerization into larger species. These physicochemical parameters have also been shown to play a key role in the binding to cells of misfolded protein oligomers in a host of neurodegenerative diseases, where oligomer-membrane binding and associated toxicity have been shown to correlate negatively with oligomer size and positively with solvent-exposed hydrophobicity. For melittin, which is not an amyloid-forming protein and has a very distinct mechanism of toxicity compared to misfolded oligomers, we find that the size-hydrophobicity-toxicity relationship also rationalizes the pharmacological attenuation of melittin toxicity by EGCG. These results highlight the importance of the physicochemical properties of pore forming agents in mediating their interactions with cell membranes and suggest a possible therapeutic approach based on compounds with a similar mechanism of action as EGCG.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Justus M Gabriel
- Department of Chemistry and Life Science, United States Military Academy, West Point, NY 10996, USA
| | - Thomas Tan
- Department of Chemistry and Life Science, United States Military Academy, West Point, NY 10996, USA
| | - Dillon J Rinauro
- Centre for Misfolding Diseases, Yusuf Hamied Department of Chemistry, University of Cambridge, Cambridge, CB2 1EW, UK
| | - Claire M Hsu
- Department of Chemistry and Life Science, United States Military Academy, West Point, NY 10996, USA
| | - Caleb J Buettner
- Department of Chemistry and Life Science, United States Military Academy, West Point, NY 10996, USA
| | - Marshall Gilmer
- Department of Chemistry and Life Science, United States Military Academy, West Point, NY 10996, USA
| | - Amrita Kaur
- Department of Chemistry and Life Science, United States Military Academy, West Point, NY 10996, USA
| | - Tristan L McKenzie
- Department of Chemistry and Life Science, United States Military Academy, West Point, NY 10996, USA
| | - Martin Park
- Department of Chemistry and Life Science, United States Military Academy, West Point, NY 10996, USA
| | - Sophie Cohen
- Department of Chemistry and Life Science, United States Military Academy, West Point, NY 10996, USA
| | - Silvia Errico
- Centre for Misfolding Diseases, Yusuf Hamied Department of Chemistry, University of Cambridge, Cambridge, CB2 1EW, UK; Department of Experimental and Clinical Biomedical Sciences, Section of Biochemistry, University of Florence, Florence, Italy
| | - Aidan K Wright
- Department of Chemistry and Life Science, United States Military Academy, West Point, NY 10996, USA
| | - Fabrizio Chiti
- Department of Experimental and Clinical Biomedical Sciences, Section of Biochemistry, University of Florence, Florence, Italy
| | - Michele Vendruscolo
- Centre for Misfolding Diseases, Yusuf Hamied Department of Chemistry, University of Cambridge, Cambridge, CB2 1EW, UK
| | - Ryan Limbocker
- Department of Chemistry and Life Science, United States Military Academy, West Point, NY 10996, USA.
| |
Collapse
|
10
|
Liao M, Gong H, Quan X, Wang Z, Hu X, Chen Z, Li Z, Liu H, Zhang L, McBain AJ, Waigh TA, Zhou J, Lu JR. Intramembrane Nanoaggregates of Antimicrobial Peptides Play a Vital Role in Bacterial Killing. SMALL (WEINHEIM AN DER BERGSTRASSE, GERMANY) 2023; 19:e2204428. [PMID: 36417574 DOI: 10.1002/smll.202204428] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/18/2022] [Revised: 10/16/2022] [Indexed: 06/16/2023]
Abstract
Recent developments in antimicrobial peptides (AMPs) have focused on the rational design of short sequences with less than 20 amino acids due to their relatively low synthesis costs and ease of correlation of the structure-function relationship. However, gaps remain in the understanding of how short cationic AMPs interact with the bacterial outer and inner membranes to affect their antimicrobial efficacy and dynamic killing. The membrane-lytic actions of two designed AMPs, G(IIKK)3 I-NH2 (G3 ) and G(IIKK)4 I-NH2 (G4 ), and previously-studied controls GLLDLLKLLLKAAG-NH2 (LDKA, biomimetic) and GIGAVLKVLTTGLPALISWIKRKR-NH2 (Melittin, natural) are examined. The mechanistic processes of membrane damage and the disruption strength of the four AMPs are characterized by molecular dynamics simulations and experimental measurements including neutron reflection and scattering. The results from the combined studies are characterized with distinctly different intramembrane nanoaggregates formed upon AMP-specific binding, reflecting clear influences of AMP sequence, charge and the chemistry of the inner and outer membranes. G3 and G4 display different nanoaggregation with the outer and inner membranes, and the smaller sizes and further extent of insertion of the intramembrane nanoaggregates into bacterial membranes correlate well with their greater antimicrobial efficacy and faster dynamic killing. This work demonstrates the crucial roles of intramembrane nanoaggregates in optimizing antimicrobial efficacy and dynamic killing.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Mingrui Liao
- Biological Physics Laboratory, Department of Physics and Astronomy, School of Natural Science, The University of Manchester, Oxford Road, Manchester, M13 9PL, UK
| | - Haoning Gong
- Biological Physics Laboratory, Department of Physics and Astronomy, School of Natural Science, The University of Manchester, Oxford Road, Manchester, M13 9PL, UK
| | - Xuebo Quan
- School of Chemistry and Chemical Engineering, Guangdong Provincial Key Laboratory for Green Chemical Product Technology, South China University of Technology, Guangzhou, 510640, China
| | - Ziwei Wang
- National Graphene Institute, The University of Manchester, Oxford Road, Manchester, M13 9PL, UK
| | - Xuzhi Hu
- Biological Physics Laboratory, Department of Physics and Astronomy, School of Natural Science, The University of Manchester, Oxford Road, Manchester, M13 9PL, UK
| | - Zheng Chen
- School of Chemistry and Chemical Engineering, Guangdong Provincial Key Laboratory for Green Chemical Product Technology, South China University of Technology, Guangzhou, 510640, China
| | - Zongyi Li
- Biological Physics Laboratory, Department of Physics and Astronomy, School of Natural Science, The University of Manchester, Oxford Road, Manchester, M13 9PL, UK
| | - Huayang Liu
- Biological Physics Laboratory, Department of Physics and Astronomy, School of Natural Science, The University of Manchester, Oxford Road, Manchester, M13 9PL, UK
| | - Lin Zhang
- Biological Physics Laboratory, Department of Physics and Astronomy, School of Natural Science, The University of Manchester, Oxford Road, Manchester, M13 9PL, UK
| | - Andrew J McBain
- Division of Pharmacy and Optometry, School of Health Sciences, Faculty of Biology, Medicine and Health, The University of Manchester, Oxford Road, Manchester, M13 9PL, UK
| | - Thomas A Waigh
- Biological Physics Laboratory, Department of Physics and Astronomy, School of Natural Science, The University of Manchester, Oxford Road, Manchester, M13 9PL, UK
| | - Jian Zhou
- School of Chemistry and Chemical Engineering, Guangdong Provincial Key Laboratory for Green Chemical Product Technology, South China University of Technology, Guangzhou, 510640, China
| | - Jian Ren Lu
- Biological Physics Laboratory, Department of Physics and Astronomy, School of Natural Science, The University of Manchester, Oxford Road, Manchester, M13 9PL, UK
| |
Collapse
|
11
|
Kanemitsu S, Morita K, Tominaga Y, Nishimura K, Yashiro T, Sakurai H, Yamamoto Y, Kurisaki I, Tanaka S, Matsui M, Ooya T, Tamura A, Maruyama T. Inhibition of Melittin Activity Using a Small Molecule with an Indole Ring. J Phys Chem B 2022; 126:5793-5802. [PMID: 35913127 DOI: 10.1021/acs.jpcb.2c03595] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/28/2022]
Abstract
We investigated d-amino acids as potential inhibitors targeting l-peptide toxins. Among the l- and d-amino acids tested, we found that d-tryptophan (d-Trp) acted as an inhibitor of melittin-induced hemolysis. We then evaluated various Trp derivatives and found that 5-chlorotryptamine (5CT) had the largest inhibitory effect on melittin. The indole ring, amino group, and steric hindrance of an inhibitor played important roles in the inhibition of melittin activity. Despite the small size and simple molecular structure of 5CT, its IC50 was approximately 13 μg/mL. Fluorescence quenching, circular dichroism measurements, and size-exclusion chromatography revealed that 5CT interacted with Trp19 in melittin and affected the formation of the melittin tetramer involved in hemolysis. Molecular dynamics simulation of melittin also indicated that the interaction of 5CT with Trp19 in melittin affected the formation of the tetramer.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Sayuki Kanemitsu
- Department of Chemical Science and Engineering, Graduate School of Engineering, Kobe University, 1-1 Rokkodai, Nada-ku, Kobe 657-8501, Japan
| | - Kenta Morita
- Department of Chemical Science and Engineering, Graduate School of Engineering, Kobe University, 1-1 Rokkodai, Nada-ku, Kobe 657-8501, Japan
| | - Yudai Tominaga
- Department of Chemical Science and Engineering, Graduate School of Engineering, Kobe University, 1-1 Rokkodai, Nada-ku, Kobe 657-8501, Japan
| | - Kanon Nishimura
- Department of Chemical Science and Engineering, Graduate School of Engineering, Kobe University, 1-1 Rokkodai, Nada-ku, Kobe 657-8501, Japan
| | - Tomoko Yashiro
- Department of Chemical Science and Engineering, Graduate School of Engineering, Kobe University, 1-1 Rokkodai, Nada-ku, Kobe 657-8501, Japan
| | - Haruka Sakurai
- Graduate School of Science, Department of Chemistry, Kobe University, 1-1 Rokkodai, Nada-ku, Kobe 657-8501, Japan
| | - Yumemi Yamamoto
- Graduate School of Science, Department of Chemistry, Kobe University, 1-1 Rokkodai, Nada-ku, Kobe 657-8501, Japan
| | - Ikuo Kurisaki
- Department of Computational Science, Graduate School of System Informatics, Kobe University, 1-1 Rokkodai, Nada-ku, Kobe 657-8501, Japan
| | - Shigenori Tanaka
- Department of Computational Science, Graduate School of System Informatics, Kobe University, 1-1 Rokkodai, Nada-ku, Kobe 657-8501, Japan
| | - Masaki Matsui
- Department of Chemical Science and Engineering, Graduate School of Engineering, Kobe University, 1-1 Rokkodai, Nada-ku, Kobe 657-8501, Japan
| | - Tooru Ooya
- Department of Chemical Science and Engineering, Graduate School of Engineering, Kobe University, 1-1 Rokkodai, Nada-ku, Kobe 657-8501, Japan
| | - Atsuo Tamura
- Graduate School of Science, Department of Chemistry, Kobe University, 1-1 Rokkodai, Nada-ku, Kobe 657-8501, Japan
| | - Tatsuo Maruyama
- Department of Chemical Science and Engineering, Graduate School of Engineering, Kobe University, 1-1 Rokkodai, Nada-ku, Kobe 657-8501, Japan.,Research Center for Membrane and Film Technology, Kobe University, 1-1 Rokkodai, Nada-ku, Kobe 657-8501, Japan
| |
Collapse
|
12
|
Akbarzadeh-Khiavi M, Torabi M, Olfati AH, Rahbarnia L, Safary A. Bio-nano scale modifications of melittin for improving therapeutic efficacy. Expert Opin Biol Ther 2022; 22:895-909. [PMID: 35687355 DOI: 10.1080/14712598.2022.2088277] [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] [Indexed: 12/12/2022]
Abstract
INTRODUCTION Melittin (MLT), a natural membrane-active component, is the most prominent cytolytic peptide from bee venom. Remarkable biological properties of MLT, including anti-inflammatory, antimicrobial, anticancer, anti-protozoan, and antiarthritic activities, make it an up-and-coming therapeutic candidate for a wide variety of human diseases. Therapeutic applications of MLT may be hindered due to low stability, high toxicity, and weak tissue penetration. Different bio-nano scale modifications hold promise for improving its functionality and therapeutic efficacy. AREAS COVERED In the current review, we aimed to provide a comprehensive insight into strategies used for MLT conjugations and modifications, cellular delivery of modified forms, and their clinical perspectives by reviewing the published literature on PubMed, Scopus, and Google Scholar databases. We also emphasized the MLT structure modifications, mechanism of action, and cellular toxicity. EXPERT OPINION Developing new analogs and conjugates of MLT as a natural drug with improved functions and fewer side effects is crucial for the clinical translation of this approach worldwide, especially where the chemicals and synthetic drugs are more expensive or unavailable in the healthcare system. MLT-nanoconjugation may be one of the best-optimized strategies for improving peptide delivery, increasing its therapeutic efficacy, and providing minimal nonspecific cellular lytic activity. [Figure: see text].
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Mostafa Akbarzadeh-Khiavi
- Liver and Gastrointestinal Diseases Research Center Tabriz University of Medical Sciences, Tabriz, Iran.,Research Center for Pharmaceutical Nanotechnology, Biomedicine Institute, Tabriz University of Medical Sciences, Tabriz, Iran
| | - Mitra Torabi
- Research Center for Pharmaceutical Nanotechnology, Biomedicine Institute, Tabriz University of Medical Sciences, Tabriz, Iran
| | - Amir-Hossein Olfati
- Student Research Committee, Tabriz University of Medical Sciences, Tabriz, Iran
| | - Leila Rahbarnia
- Infectious and Tropical Diseases Research Center, Tabriz University of Medical Sciences, Tabriz, Iran
| | - Azam Safary
- Connective Tissue Diseases Research Center, Tabriz University of Medical Sciences, Tabriz, Iran
| |
Collapse
|
13
|
Wang H, Qin H, Garab G, Gasanoff ES. Short-Chained Alcohols Make Membrane Surfaces Conducive for Melittin Action: Implication for the Physiological Role of Alcohols in Cells. Cells 2022; 11:cells11121928. [PMID: 35741057 PMCID: PMC9221640 DOI: 10.3390/cells11121928] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/02/2022] [Revised: 06/11/2022] [Accepted: 06/14/2022] [Indexed: 11/16/2022] Open
Abstract
Alcohols are a part of cellular metabolism, but their physiological roles are not well understood. We investigated the effects of short-chain alcohols on Daphnia pulex and model membranes mimicking the lipid composition of eukaryotic inner mitochondrial membranes. We also studied the synergistic effects of alcohols with the bee venom membrane-active peptide, melittin, which is structurally similar to endogenous membrane-active peptides. The alcohols, from ethanol to octanol, gradually decreased the heart rate and the mitochondrial ATP synthesis of daphnia; in contrast, in combination with melittin, which exerted no sizeable effect, they gradually increased both the heart rate and the ATP synthesis. Lipid packing and the order parameter of oriented films, monitored by EPR spectroscopy of the spin-labeled probe 5-doxylstrearic acid, revealed gradual alcohol-assisted bilayer to non-bilayer transitions in the presence of melittin; further, while the alcohols decreased, in combination with melittin they increased the order parameter of the film, which is attributed to the alcohol-facilitated association of melittin with the membrane. A 1H-NMR spectroscopy of the liposomes confirmed the enhanced induction of a non-bilayer lipid phase that formed around the melittin, without the permeabilization of the liposomal membrane. Our data suggest that short-chain alcohols, in combination with endogenous peptides, regulate protein functions via modulating the lipid polymorphism of membranes.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Haoyu Wang
- STEM (Science, Technology, Engineering and Mathematics) Program, Science Department, Chaoyang KaiWen Academy, Beijing 100018, China; (H.W.); (H.Q.)
| | - Hao Qin
- STEM (Science, Technology, Engineering and Mathematics) Program, Science Department, Chaoyang KaiWen Academy, Beijing 100018, China; (H.W.); (H.Q.)
| | - Győző Garab
- Biological Research Centre, Eötvös Loránd Research Network, Temesvári krt. 62, H-6726 Szeged, Hungary
- Department of Physics, Faculty of Science, University of Ostrava, 710 00 Ostrava, Czech Republic
- Correspondence: (G.G.); (E.S.G.)
| | - Edward S. Gasanoff
- STEM (Science, Technology, Engineering and Mathematics) Program, Science Department, Chaoyang KaiWen Academy, Beijing 100018, China; (H.W.); (H.Q.)
- Belozersky Institute for Physico-Chemical Biology, Lomonosov Moscow State University, 119991 Moscow, Russia
- Correspondence: (G.G.); (E.S.G.)
| |
Collapse
|
14
|
Modak B, Girkar S, Narayan R, Kapoor S. Mycobacterial Membranes as Actionable Targets for Lipid-Centric Therapy in Tuberculosis. J Med Chem 2022; 65:3046-3065. [PMID: 35133820 DOI: 10.1021/acs.jmedchem.1c01870] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/02/2023]
Abstract
Infectious diseases remain significant health concerns worldwide, and resistance is particularly common in patients with tuberculosis caused by Mycobacterium tuberculosis. The development of anti-infectives with novel modes of action may help overcome resistance. In this regard, membrane-active agents, which modulate membrane components essential for the survival of pathogens, present attractive antimicrobial agents. Key advantages of membrane-active compounds include their ability to target slow-growing or dormant bacteria and their favorable pharmacokinetics. Here, we comprehensively review recent advances in the development of membrane-active chemotypes that target mycobacterial membranes and discuss clinically relevant membrane-active antibacterial agents that have shown promise in counteracting bacterial infections. We discuss the relationship between the membrane properties and the synthetic requirements within the chemical scaffold, as well as the limitations of current membrane-active chemotypes. This review will lay the chemical groundwork for the development of membrane-active antituberculosis agents and will foster the discovery of more effective antitubercular agents.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Biswabrata Modak
- Department of Chemistry, Indian Institute of Technology Bombay, Mumbai 400076, India
| | - Siddhali Girkar
- School of Chemical and Materials Sciences, Indian Institute of Technology Goa, Goa 403110, India
| | - Rishikesh Narayan
- School of Chemical and Materials Sciences, Indian Institute of Technology Goa, Goa 403110, India
| | - Shobhna Kapoor
- Department of Chemistry, Indian Institute of Technology Bombay, Mumbai 400076, India.,Graduate School of Integrated Sciences for Life, Hiroshima University, Hiroshima 739-8528, Japan
| |
Collapse
|
15
|
Bee Venom Melittin Disintegrates the Respiration of Mitochondria in Healthy Cells and Lymphoblasts, and Induces the Formation of Non-Bilayer Structures in Model Inner Mitochondrial Membranes. Int J Mol Sci 2021; 22:ijms222011122. [PMID: 34681781 PMCID: PMC8538590 DOI: 10.3390/ijms222011122] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/21/2021] [Revised: 10/09/2021] [Accepted: 10/12/2021] [Indexed: 12/23/2022] Open
Abstract
In this paper, we examined the effects of melittin, a bee venom membrane-active peptide, on mitochondrial respiration and cell viability of healthy human lymphocytes (HHL) and Jurkat cells, as well as on lymphoblasts from acute human T cell leukemia. The viability of melittin-treated cells was related to changes in O2 consumption and in the respiratory control index (RCI) of mitochondria isolated from melittin-pretreated cells as well as of mitochondria first isolated from cells and then directly treated with melittin. It was shown that melittin is three times more cytotoxic to Jurkat cells than to HHL, but O2 consumption and RCI values of mitochondria from both cell types were equally affected by melittin when melittin was directly added to mitochondria. To elucidate the molecular mechanism of melittin’s cytotoxicity to healthy and cancer cells, the effects of melittin on lipid-packing and on the dynamics in model plasma membranes of healthy and cancer cells, as well as of the inner mitochondrial membrane, were studied by EPR spin probes. The affinity of melittin binding to phosphatidylcholine, phosphatidylserine, phosphatidic acid and cardiolipin, and binding sites of phospholipids on the surface of melittin were studied by 31P-NMR, native PAGE and AutoDock modeling. It is suggested that the melittin-induced decline of mitochondrial bioenergetics contributes primarily to cell death; the higher cytotoxicity of melittin to cancer cells is attributed to its increased permeability through the plasma membrane.
Collapse
|
16
|
Brand I, Khairalla B. Structural changes in the model of the outer cell membrane of Gram-negative bacteria interacting with melittin: an in situ spectroelectrochemical study. Faraday Discuss 2021; 232:68-85. [PMID: 34542116 DOI: 10.1039/d0fd00039f] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/21/2022]
Abstract
The cell membrane of Gram-negative bacteria interacting with an antimicrobial peptide presents a complex supramolecular assembly. Fabrication of models of bacterial cell membranes remains a large experimental challenge. Langmuir-Blodgett and Langmuir-Schaefer (LS-LB) transfer makes possible the deposition of multicomponent asymmetric lipid bilayers onto a gold surface. Two lipids: 1-palmitoyl-2-oleoyl-sn-glycero-3-phosphoethanolamine (POPE) and di[3-deoxy-D-manno-octulosonyl]-lipid A (KLA) were used to deposit a model of the outer membrane of Gram-negative bacteria on the Au(111) substrate. The use of gold as the solid substrate enables control of the membrane potential. Molecular scale changes in the model membrane exposed to physiological electric fields and interacting with melittin antimicrobial peptide are discussed in this paper. The interaction of the outer membrane with melittin leads to an increase in the membrane capacitance and permeability to ions and water. The stability of the outer membrane with bound melittin decreases at positive membrane potentials. In situ polarization modulation infrared reflection absorption spectroscopy is used to investigate membrane potential-dependent changes in the structure of the outer membrane interacting with melittin. The hydration of the ester carbonyl groups is not affected by the interaction with melittin. However, the orientation and hydrogen bond network with the carboxylate groups in KLA changes drastically after POPE-KLA bilayer interacts with melittin. We propose that the positively charged groups in the amino acids present at the C-terminus of the peptide interact directly with the polar head group of KLA. Simultaneously, the packing order in hydrocarbon chains in the membrane with bound melittin increases. A hydrophobic match between the chains in the lipids and the peptide, which spans the membrane, seems to be responsible for the ordering of the hydrocarbon chains region of the bilayer. The N-terminus enters into the hydrophobic region of the membrane and forms a channel to the hydrophilic head groups in POPE.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Izabella Brand
- Department of Chemistry, University of Oldenburg, 26111 Oldenburg, Germany.
| | - Bishoy Khairalla
- Department of Chemistry, University of Oldenburg, 26111 Oldenburg, Germany.
| |
Collapse
|
17
|
Juhász T, Quemé-Peña M, Kővágó B, Mihály J, Ricci M, Horváti K, Bősze S, Zsila F, Beke-Somfai T. Interplay between membrane active host defense peptides and heme modulates their assemblies and in vitro activity. Sci Rep 2021; 11:18328. [PMID: 34526616 PMCID: PMC8443738 DOI: 10.1038/s41598-021-97779-2] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/31/2021] [Accepted: 07/28/2021] [Indexed: 02/08/2023] Open
Abstract
In the emerging era of antimicrobial resistance, the susceptibility to co-infections of patients suffering from either acquired or inherited hemolytic disorders can lead to dramatic increase in mortality rates. Closely related, heme liberated during hemolysis is one of the major sources of iron, which is vital for both host and invading microorganisms. While recent intensive research in the field has demonstrated that heme exerts diverse local effects including impairment of immune cells functions, it is almost completely unknown how it may compromise key molecules of our innate immune system, such as antimicrobial host defense peptides (HDPs). Since HDPs hold great promise as natural therapeutic agents against antibiotic-resistant microbes, understanding the effects that may modulate their action in microbial infection is crucial. Here we explore how hemin can interact directly with selected HDPs and influence their structure and membrane activity. It is revealed that induced helical folding, large assembly formation, and altered membrane activity is promoted by hemin. However, these effects showed variations depending mainly on peptide selectivity toward charged lipids, and the affinity of the peptide and hemin to lipid bilayers. Hemin-peptide complexes are sought to form semi-folded co-assemblies, which are present even with model membranes resembling mammalian or bacterial lipid compositions. In vitro cell-based toxicity assays supported that toxic effects of HDPs could be attenuated due to their assembly formation. These results are in line with our previous findings on peptide-lipid-small molecule systems suggesting that small molecules present in the complex in vivo milieu can regulate HDP function. Inversely, diverse effects of endogenous compounds could also be manipulated by HDPs.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Tünde Juhász
- grid.425578.90000 0004 0512 3755Institute of Materials and Environmental Chemistry, Research Centre for Natural Sciences, Budapest, Hungary
| | - Mayra Quemé-Peña
- grid.425578.90000 0004 0512 3755Institute of Materials and Environmental Chemistry, Research Centre for Natural Sciences, Budapest, Hungary ,grid.5591.80000 0001 2294 6276Hevesy György PhD School of Chemistry, Eötvös Loránd University, Budapest, Hungary
| | - Bence Kővágó
- grid.425578.90000 0004 0512 3755Institute of Materials and Environmental Chemistry, Research Centre for Natural Sciences, Budapest, Hungary
| | - Judith Mihály
- grid.425578.90000 0004 0512 3755Institute of Materials and Environmental Chemistry, Research Centre for Natural Sciences, Budapest, Hungary
| | - Maria Ricci
- grid.425578.90000 0004 0512 3755Institute of Materials and Environmental Chemistry, Research Centre for Natural Sciences, Budapest, Hungary
| | - Kata Horváti
- grid.5591.80000 0001 2294 6276ELKH-ELTE Research Group of Peptide Chemistry, Eötvös Loránd University, Budapest, Hungary ,grid.5591.80000 0001 2294 6276Department of Organic Chemistry, Eötvös Loránd University, Budapest, Hungary
| | - Szilvia Bősze
- grid.5591.80000 0001 2294 6276ELKH-ELTE Research Group of Peptide Chemistry, Eötvös Loránd University, Budapest, Hungary
| | - Ferenc Zsila
- grid.425578.90000 0004 0512 3755Institute of Materials and Environmental Chemistry, Research Centre for Natural Sciences, Budapest, Hungary
| | - Tamás Beke-Somfai
- grid.425578.90000 0004 0512 3755Institute of Materials and Environmental Chemistry, Research Centre for Natural Sciences, Budapest, Hungary
| |
Collapse
|
18
|
Yadav V, Misra R. A review emphasizing on utility of heptad repeat sequence as a tool to design pharmacologically safe peptide-based antibiotics. Biochimie 2021; 191:126-139. [PMID: 34492334 DOI: 10.1016/j.biochi.2021.09.001] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/19/2021] [Revised: 08/25/2021] [Accepted: 09/03/2021] [Indexed: 12/31/2022]
Abstract
Extensive usage of antibiotics has created an unprecedented scenario of the rapid emergence of many drug-resistant bacteria, which has become an alarming public health concern around the globe. Search for better alternatives that are as efficacious as antibiotics led to the discovery of antimicrobial peptides (AMPs). These small cationic amphiphilic peptides have emerged as a promising option as antimicrobial agents, owing to their multifaceted implications against varied pathogens. Recent years have witnessed tremendous growth in research on AMPs resulting in them being tested in clinical trials of which six got approved for topical application. The relatively less successful outcome has been attributed to the poor cell selectivity shown by most of the naturally occurring AMPs. This drawback needs to be circumvented by identifying strategies to design safe and effective peptides. In the present review, we have emphasized the importance of heptad repeat sequence (leucine and/or phenylalanine zipper motif) as a tool that has shown great promise in remodeling the toxic AMPs to safe antimicrobial agents.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Vikas Yadav
- Department of Translational Medicine, Clinical Research Centre, Skåne University Hospital, Lund University, Malmö, Sweden; Interdisciplinary Cluster for Applied Genoproteomics (GIGA), University of Liège (ULiège), Liège, Belgium.
| | - Richa Misra
- Department of Zoology, Sri Venkateswara College, University of Delhi, Delhi, India
| |
Collapse
|
19
|
Bevalian P, Pashaei F, Akbari R, Pooshang Bagheri K. Eradication of vancomycin-resistant Staphylococcus aureus on a mouse model of third-degree burn infection by melittin: An antimicrobial peptide from bee venom. Toxicon 2021; 199:49-59. [PMID: 34087287 DOI: 10.1016/j.toxicon.2021.05.015] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/14/2021] [Revised: 05/18/2021] [Accepted: 05/29/2021] [Indexed: 01/10/2023]
Abstract
Third-degree burn infections caused by antibiotic-resistant bacteria are of high clinical concern. Chemical antibiotics are not promising in eradication of bacterial infections. In this challenging condition, antimicrobial peptides (AMPs) are recently introduced as novel promising agents to overcome the issue. Accordingly, our study aimed to evaluate the efficiency of 'melittin' as natural peptide in bee venom, in eradicating vancomycin resistant Staphylococcus aureus (VRSA) on a mouse model of third-degree burn infection. In vitro pharmacological value of melittin was determined by examining its inhibitory and killing activities on VRSA isolates at different doses and time periods. The action mechanism of 'melittin' was evaluated by fluorescent release assay and Field Emission Scanning Electron Microscopy (FE-SEM) analyses. In vivo activity and toxicity of melittin were also examined on a mouse model of third-degree burn infection. The Minimum Inhibitory Concentration (MIC) and the Minimum Bactericidal Concentration (MBC) of melittin on all isolates ranged from '0.125-2 μg/mL' and '0.125-4 μg/mL', respectively. Rapid antibacterial activity of melittin on VRSA isolates was demonstrated by killing kinetics assays. Fluorometric and FE-SEM analyses indicated the membranolytic effects of melittin on VRSA isolates. The colonized VRSA bacteria were eradicated by melittin at 16 μg, in a single dose. No dermal toxicity and in vivo hemolysis were observed in the examined mice. The lack of in vivo toxicity of melittin along with its potent antibacterial activity indicated its promising therapeutic value as a topical drug against S. aureus associated third-degree burn infections.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Parvaneh Bevalian
- Venom and Biotherapeutics Molecules Lab., Biotechnology Dept., Biotechnology Research Center, Pasteur Institute of Iran, Tehran, Iran
| | - Fatemeh Pashaei
- Venom and Biotherapeutics Molecules Lab., Biotechnology Dept., Biotechnology Research Center, Pasteur Institute of Iran, Tehran, Iran
| | - Reza Akbari
- Venom and Biotherapeutics Molecules Lab., Biotechnology Dept., Biotechnology Research Center, Pasteur Institute of Iran, Tehran, Iran; Department of Microbiology, Faculty of Medicine, Urmia University of Medical Sciences, Urmia, West Azerbaijan, Iran
| | - Kamran Pooshang Bagheri
- Venom and Biotherapeutics Molecules Lab., Biotechnology Dept., Biotechnology Research Center, Pasteur Institute of Iran, Tehran, Iran.
| |
Collapse
|
20
|
Eshtiaghi S, Nazari R, Fasihi-Ramandi M. In-Silico and In-Vitro Evaluation of Antibacterial, Cytotoxic, and Apoptotic Activity and Structure of Modified CM11 Peptide. Int J Pept Res Ther 2021. [DOI: 10.1007/s10989-020-10151-2] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/11/2023]
|
21
|
The role of the multifunctional antimicrobial peptide melittin in gene delivery. Drug Discov Today 2021; 26:1053-1059. [DOI: 10.1016/j.drudis.2021.01.004] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/20/2020] [Revised: 12/01/2020] [Accepted: 01/07/2021] [Indexed: 12/23/2022]
|
22
|
Picoli T, Peter C, Lopes M, Barcelos L, Varela Júnior A, Corcini C, Hübner S, Vargas G, Lima M, Fischer G. Melittin-induced metabolic changes on the Madin-Darby Bovine Kidney cell line. ARQ BRAS MED VET ZOO 2021. [DOI: 10.1590/1678-4162-12150] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/22/2022] Open
Abstract
ABSTRACT In this study, the toxic effects of melittin on Madin-Darby Bovine Kidney cells (MDBK) were analyzed with respect to mitochondrial functionality by reduction of MTT and flow cytometry, apoptosis potential, necrosis, oxygen reactive species (ROS) production, lipid peroxidation, and DNA fragmentation using flow cytometry and cell membrane destabilization by confocal microscopy. The toxicity presented dose-dependent characteristics and mitochondrial activity was inhibited by up to 78.24 ±3.59% (P<0.01, n = 6) in MDBK cells exposed to melittin (10μg/mL). Flow cytometry analysis revealed that melittin at 2μg/mL had the highest necrosis rate (P<0.05) for the cells. The lipoperoxidation of the membranes was also higher at 2μg/mL of melittin (P<0.05), which was further confirmed by the microphotographs obtained by confocal microscopy. The highest ROS production occurred when the cells were exposed to 2.5μg/mL melittin (P<0.05), and this concentration also increased DNA fragmentation (P<0.05). There was a significative and positive correlation between the lipoperoxidation of membranes with ROS (R=0.4158), mitochondrial functionality (R=0.4149), and apoptosis (R=0.4978). Thus, the oxidative stress generated by melittin culminates in the elevation of intracellular ROS that initiates a cascade of toxic events in MDBK cells.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- T. Picoli
- Universidade Federal de Pelotas, Brazil
| | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | - M. Lima
- Universidade Federal de Pelotas, Brazil
| | | |
Collapse
|
23
|
Portelinha J, Duay SS, Yu SI, Heilemann K, Libardo MDJ, Juliano SA, Klassen JL, Angeles-Boza AM. Antimicrobial Peptides and Copper(II) Ions: Novel Therapeutic Opportunities. Chem Rev 2021; 121:2648-2712. [PMID: 33524257 DOI: 10.1021/acs.chemrev.0c00921] [Citation(s) in RCA: 40] [Impact Index Per Article: 13.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 02/08/2023]
Abstract
The emergence of new pathogens and multidrug resistant bacteria is an important public health issue that requires the development of novel classes of antibiotics. Antimicrobial peptides (AMPs) are a promising platform with great potential for the identification of new lead compounds that can combat the aforementioned pathogens due to their broad-spectrum antimicrobial activity and relatively low rate of resistance emergence. AMPs of multicellular organisms made their debut four decades ago thanks to ingenious researchers who asked simple questions about the resistance to bacterial infections of insects. Questions such as "Do fruit flies ever get sick?", combined with pioneering studies, have led to an understanding of AMPs as universal weapons of the immune system. This review focuses on a subclass of AMPs that feature a metal binding motif known as the amino terminal copper and nickel (ATCUN) motif. One of the metal-based strategies of hosts facing a pathogen, it includes wielding the inherent toxicity of copper and deliberately trafficking this metal ion into sites of infection. The sudden increase in the concentration of copper ions in the presence of ATCUN-containing AMPs (ATCUN-AMPs) likely results in a synergistic interaction. Herein, we examine common structural features in ATCUN-AMPs that exist across species, and we highlight unique features that deserve additional attention. We also present the current state of knowledge about the molecular mechanisms behind their antimicrobial activity and the methods available to study this promising class of AMPs.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Jasmin Portelinha
- Department of Chemistry, University of Connecticut, 55 North Eagleville Road, Storrs, Connecticut 06269, United States
| | - Searle S Duay
- Department of Chemistry, University of Connecticut, 55 North Eagleville Road, Storrs, Connecticut 06269, United States.,Chemistry Department, Adamson University, 900 San Marcelino Street, Ermita, Manila 1000, Philippines
| | - Seung I Yu
- Department of Molecular and Cell Biology, University of Connecticut, 91 North Eagleville Road, Storrs, Connecticut 06269, United States
| | - Kara Heilemann
- Department of Chemistry, University of Connecticut, 55 North Eagleville Road, Storrs, Connecticut 06269, United States
| | - M Daben J Libardo
- Department of Chemistry, University of Connecticut, 55 North Eagleville Road, Storrs, Connecticut 06269, United States
| | - Samuel A Juliano
- Department of Chemistry, University of Connecticut, 55 North Eagleville Road, Storrs, Connecticut 06269, United States
| | - Jonathan L Klassen
- Department of Molecular and Cell Biology, University of Connecticut, 91 North Eagleville Road, Storrs, Connecticut 06269, United States
| | - Alfredo M Angeles-Boza
- Department of Chemistry, University of Connecticut, 55 North Eagleville Road, Storrs, Connecticut 06269, United States.,Institute of Material Science, University of Connecticut, 55 North Eagleville Road, Storrs, Connecticut 06269, United States
| |
Collapse
|
24
|
Park SC, Kim H, Kim JY, Kim H, Cheong GW, Lee JR, Jang MK. Improved Cell Selectivity of Pseudin-2 via Substitution in the Leucine-Zipper Motif: In Vitro and In Vivo Antifungal Activity. Antibiotics (Basel) 2020; 9:antibiotics9120921. [PMID: 33352972 PMCID: PMC7766124 DOI: 10.3390/antibiotics9120921] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/28/2020] [Revised: 12/09/2020] [Accepted: 12/15/2020] [Indexed: 12/28/2022] Open
Abstract
Several antimicrobial peptides (AMPs) have been discovered, developed, and purified from natural sources and peptide engineering; however, the clinical applications of these AMPs are limited owing to their lack of abundance and side effects related to cytotoxicity, immunogenicity, and hemolytic activity. Accordingly, to improve cell selectivity for pseudin-2, an AMP from Pseudis paradoxa skin, in mammalian cells and pathogenic fungi, the sequence of pseudin-2 was modified by alanine or lysine at each position of two amino acids within the leucine-zipper motif. Alanine-substituted variants were highly selective toward fungi over HaCaT and erythrocytes and maintained their antifungal activities and mode of action (membranolysis). However, the antifungal activities of lysine-substituted peptides were reduced, and the compound could penetrate into fungal cells, followed by induction of mitochondrial reactive oxygen species and cell death. In vivo antifungal assays of analogous peptide showed excellent antifungal efficiency in a Candida tropicalis skin infection mouse model. Our results demonstrated the usefulness of selective amino acid substitution in the repeated sequence of the leucine-zipper motif for the design of AMPs with potent antimicrobial activities and low toxicity.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Seong-Cheol Park
- Department of Polymer Science and Engineering, Sunchon National University, Suncheon 57922, Korea; (S.-C.P.); (H.K.); (J.-Y.K.); (H.K.)
| | - Heabin Kim
- Department of Polymer Science and Engineering, Sunchon National University, Suncheon 57922, Korea; (S.-C.P.); (H.K.); (J.-Y.K.); (H.K.)
| | - Jin-Young Kim
- Department of Polymer Science and Engineering, Sunchon National University, Suncheon 57922, Korea; (S.-C.P.); (H.K.); (J.-Y.K.); (H.K.)
| | - Hyeonseok Kim
- Department of Polymer Science and Engineering, Sunchon National University, Suncheon 57922, Korea; (S.-C.P.); (H.K.); (J.-Y.K.); (H.K.)
| | - Gang-Won Cheong
- Division of Applied Life Sciences and Research Institute of Natural Science, Gyeongsang National University, Jinju 52828, Korea;
| | - Jung Ro Lee
- National Institute of Ecology, 1210 Geumgang-ro, Maseo-myeon, Seocheon-gun 33657, Korea
- Correspondence: (J.R.L.); (M.-K.J.)
| | - Mi-Kyeong Jang
- Department of Polymer Science and Engineering, Sunchon National University, Suncheon 57922, Korea; (S.-C.P.); (H.K.); (J.-Y.K.); (H.K.)
- Correspondence: (J.R.L.); (M.-K.J.)
| |
Collapse
|
25
|
Sarhan M, El-Bitar AMH, Hotta H. Potent virucidal activity of honeybee "Apis mellifera" venom against Hepatitis C Virus. Toxicon 2020; 188:55-64. [PMID: 33068557 DOI: 10.1016/j.toxicon.2020.10.014] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/19/2020] [Revised: 09/29/2020] [Accepted: 10/13/2020] [Indexed: 02/06/2023]
Abstract
Hepatitis C virus (HCV) is a global viral widespread without an available vaccine to prevent infection. HCV infection can cause serious liver diseases such as hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC). Current treatment of HCV infection depends on the FDA approved direct-acting antivirals (DAAs) which have side effects and expensive. Thus, development of a novel, more efficient, along with affordable pricing anti-HCV agents is still required. The purpose of the present study is to evaluate the antiviral effects of bee venom (BV) from the honeybee Apis mellifera on the HCV replication life cycle. The crude venom and its components were examined for their anti-HCV activities using Huh7it-1 cultured cells and the JFH1 strain of HCV genotype 2a. Results revealed that BV inhibited HCV infection with 50% inhibitory concentration (IC50) of 0.05 ng/ml, while the 50% cytotoxic concentration (CC50) being 20,000 ng/ml. The venom directly blocked HCV/cell entry by acting on virus particles in a dose dependent manner, whereas no interference on the host cells. Furthermore, venom showed no inhibitory effect on HCV replication and release. Interestingly, none of the main BV components including the mast cell degranulating peptide (MCD), mpamin, or the small peptides melittin (MLT) showed anti-HCV activity up to 5 μg/ml. In conclusion, these results suggest that BV has a direct virucidal activity against HCV and may exert its antiviral effect through a non-common peptide(s) or toxin complex within the crude venom. Therefore, the crude BV can be considered as a promising candidate for characterization and development of new and natural anti-HCV therapeutic agents.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Moustafa Sarhan
- Molecular biology lab., Zoology Department, Faculty of Science, Al-Azhar University, Assiut, Egypt; Department of Microbiology, Kobe University Graduate School of Medicine, 7-5-1 Kusunoki-Cho, Chuo-Ku, Kobe, 650-0017, Japan.
| | - Alaa M H El-Bitar
- Molecular biology lab., Zoology Department, Faculty of Science, Al-Azhar University, Assiut, Egypt; Department of Microbiology, Kobe University Graduate School of Medicine, 7-5-1 Kusunoki-Cho, Chuo-Ku, Kobe, 650-0017, Japan.
| | - Hak Hotta
- Department of Microbiology, Kobe University Graduate School of Medicine, 7-5-1 Kusunoki-Cho, Chuo-Ku, Kobe, 650-0017, Japan; Department of International Health, Kobe University Graduate School of Health Sciences, 7-10-2 Tomogaoka, Suma-Ku, Kobe, 654-0142, Japan; Faculty of Clinical Nutrition and Dietetics, Konan Women's University, 6-2-23 Morikita-machi, Higashinada-Ku, Kobe, 658-0001, Japan.
| |
Collapse
|
26
|
DAPTOMYCIN, its membrane-active mechanism vs. that of other antimicrobial peptides. BIOCHIMICA ET BIOPHYSICA ACTA-BIOMEMBRANES 2020; 1862:183395. [PMID: 32526177 DOI: 10.1016/j.bbamem.2020.183395] [Citation(s) in RCA: 40] [Impact Index Per Article: 10.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/27/2020] [Revised: 06/04/2020] [Accepted: 06/07/2020] [Indexed: 11/23/2022]
Abstract
Over 3000 membrane-active antimicrobial peptides (AMPs) have been discovered, but only three of them have been approved by the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) for therapeutic applications, i.e., gramicidin, daptomycin and colistin. Of the three approved AMPs, daptomycin is a last-line-of-defense antibiotic for treating Gram-positive infections. However its use has already created bacterial resistance. To search for its substitutes that might counter the resistance, we need to understand its molecular mechanism. The mode of action of daptomycin appears to be causing bacterial membrane depolarization through ion leakage. Daptomycin forms a unique complex with calcium ions and phosphatidylglycerol molecules in membrane at a specific stoichiometric ratio: Dap2Ca3PG2. How does this complex promote ion conduction across the membrane? We hope that biophysics of peptide-membrane interaction can answer this question. This review summarizes the biophysical works that have been done on membrane-active AMPs to understand their mechanisms of action, including gramicidin, daptomycin, and underdeveloped pore-forming AMPs. The analysis suggests that daptomycin forms transient ionophores in the target membranes. We discuss questions that remain to be answered.
Collapse
|
27
|
Neshani A, Sedighian H, Mirhosseini SA, Ghazvini K, Zare H, Jahangiri A. Antimicrobial peptides as a promising treatment option against Acinetobacter baumannii infections. Microb Pathog 2020; 146:104238. [PMID: 32387392 DOI: 10.1016/j.micpath.2020.104238] [Citation(s) in RCA: 27] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/11/2019] [Revised: 04/26/2020] [Accepted: 04/27/2020] [Indexed: 12/18/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND With the increasing rate of antibiotic resistance in Acinetobacter, the World Health Organization introduced the carbapenem-resistant isolates in the priority pathogens list for which innovative new treatments are urgently needed. Antimicrobial peptides (AMPs) are one of the antimicrobial agents with high potential to produce new anti-Acinetobacter drugs. This review aims to summarize recent advances and compare AMPs with anti-Acinetobacter baumannii activity. METHODS Active AMPs against Acinetobacter were considered, and essential features, including structure, mechanism of action, anti-A. baumannii potent, and other prominent characteristics, were investigated and compared to each other. In this regard, the Google Scholar search engine and databases of PubMed, Scopus, and Web of Science were used. RESULTS Forty-six anti-Acinetobacter peptides were identified and classified into ten groups: Cathelicidins, Defensins, Frog AMPs, Melittin, Cecropins, Mastoparan, Histatins, Dermcidins, Tachyplesins, and computationally designed AMPs. According to the Minimum Inhibitory Concentration (MIC) reports, six peptides of Melittin, Histatin-8, Omega76, AM-CATH36, Hymenochirin, and Mastoparan have the highest anti-A. baumannii power against sensitive and antibiotic-resistant isolates. All anti-Acinetobacter peptides except Dermcidin have a net positive charge. Most of these peptides have alpha-helical structure; however, β-sheet and other structures have been observed among them. The mechanism of action of these antimicrobial agents is divided into two categories of membrane-based and intracellular target-based attack. CONCLUSION Evidence from this review indicates that AMPs would be likely among the main anti-A. baumannii drugs in the post-antibiotic era. Also, the application of computer science to increase anti-A. baumannii activity and reduce toxicity could be helpful.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Alireza Neshani
- Applied Microbiology Research Center, Systems Biology and Poisonings Institute, Baqiyatallah University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran; Department of Laboratory Sciences, School of Paramedical Sciences, Mashhad University of Medical Sciences, Mashhad, Iran; Antimicrobial Resistance Research Center, Mashhad University of Medical Sciences, Mashhad, Iran
| | - Hamid Sedighian
- Applied Microbiology Research Center, Systems Biology and Poisonings Institute, Baqiyatallah University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran
| | - Seyed Ali Mirhosseini
- Applied Microbiology Research Center, Systems Biology and Poisonings Institute, Baqiyatallah University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran
| | - Kiarash Ghazvini
- Antimicrobial Resistance Research Center, Mashhad University of Medical Sciences, Mashhad, Iran
| | - Hosna Zare
- Antimicrobial Resistance Research Center, Mashhad University of Medical Sciences, Mashhad, Iran; Student Research Committee, Mashhad University of Medical Sciences, Mashhad, Iran
| | - Abolfazl Jahangiri
- Applied Microbiology Research Center, Systems Biology and Poisonings Institute, Baqiyatallah University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran.
| |
Collapse
|
28
|
Deng Z, Lu X, Xu C, Yuan B, Yang K. Lipid-specific interactions determine the organization and dynamics of membrane-active peptide melittin. SOFT MATTER 2020; 16:3498-3504. [PMID: 32215386 DOI: 10.1039/d0sm00046a] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 06/10/2023]
Abstract
The cell membranes of different cells deviate significantly in lipid compositions and thus provide varying biological environments to modulate the diffusion, organization and the resultant function of biomacromolecules. However, the detailed modulation mechanism remains elusive especially in consideration of the current overuse of the simplified membrane models such as the pure phosphatidylcholine (PC) membrane. In this work, with the typical membrane-active peptide melittin, we demonstrated that a more complicated membrane environment, such as the bacterial (IME) or plasma membrane (PM), would significantly change the organization and dynamics of melittin, by using molecular dynamics simulations as a "computational microscope". It was found that in these membrane systems, adding melittin would cause a varying degree of reduction in the lateral diffusion of lipids due to the different assembly states of peptides. Melittin tended to aggregate to oligomers in the pure PC membrane, mostly as a tetramer or trimer, while in IME or PM, its degree of oligomerization was significantly reduced. More surprisingly, melittin displayed a strong affinity with ganglioside GM3 in PM, leading to the formation of melittin-GM3 nanoclusters, which hindered its diffusion and further oligomerization. Additionally, small changes in the residue sequence of melittin could modulate the degree or structure of the peptide oligomer. Our work provides a typical example of a study on the organization and dynamics of pore-forming peptides in specific membrane environments and has great significance on the optimization of peptide sequences and the design of helix bundles in the membrane for target biological function.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Zhixiong Deng
- Center for Soft Condensed Matter Physics and Interdisciplinary Research & School of Physical Science and Technology, Soochow University, Suzhou, 215006, P. R. China.
| | - Xuemei Lu
- Center for Soft Condensed Matter Physics and Interdisciplinary Research & School of Physical Science and Technology, Soochow University, Suzhou, 215006, P. R. China.
| | - Cheng Xu
- Center for Soft Condensed Matter Physics and Interdisciplinary Research & School of Physical Science and Technology, Soochow University, Suzhou, 215006, P. R. China.
| | - Bing Yuan
- Center for Soft Condensed Matter Physics and Interdisciplinary Research & School of Physical Science and Technology, Soochow University, Suzhou, 215006, P. R. China. and Jiangsu Key Laboratory of Thin Films, Soochow University, Suzhou, 215006, P. R. China
| | - Kai Yang
- Center for Soft Condensed Matter Physics and Interdisciplinary Research & School of Physical Science and Technology, Soochow University, Suzhou, 215006, P. R. China. and Jiangsu Key Laboratory of Thin Films, Soochow University, Suzhou, 215006, P. R. China
| |
Collapse
|
29
|
Mayandi V, Xi Q, Leng G, Koh SK, Jie T, Barathi VA, Urf Turabe Fazil MH, Somaraju Chalasani ML, Varadarajan J, Ting DSJ, Beuerman RW, Chan LW, Agrawal R, Sebastian B, Zhou L, Verma NK, Lakshminarayanan R. Rational Substitution of ε-Lysine for α-Lysine Enhances the Cell and Membrane Selectivity of Pore-Forming Melittin. J Med Chem 2020; 63:3522-3537. [PMID: 32175733 DOI: 10.1021/acs.jmedchem.9b01846] [Citation(s) in RCA: 15] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/24/2022]
Abstract
Here, we present a rational approach that enhances the membrane selectivity of a prolific pore-forming peptide, melittin, based on experimental observations that the cationic polymer, ε-polylysine, disrupts bacterial membranes with greater affinity over mammalian cells when compared to poly-l-lysine and poly-d-lysine. We systematically replaced three α-lysine residues in melittin with ε-lysine residues and identified key residues that are important for cytotoxicity. We then assessed the antimicrobial properties of the modified peptides which carry two or three ε-lysyl residues. Two modified melittin peptides displayed rapid bactericidal properties against antibiotic-resistant strains, low innate resistance development by pathogenic bacteria, remained nonimmunogenic for T lymphocytes, and increased bioavailability in tear fluids. In proof-of-concept in vivo experiments, one of the peptides was noncytotoxic for ocular surfaces and had comparable antimicrobial efficacy to that of fluoroquinolone antibiotics. The results uncover a simple and potential strategy that can enhance the membrane selectivity of cytolytic peptides by ε-lysylation.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Venkatesh Mayandi
- Anti-Infectives Research Group, Singapore Eye Research Institute, The Academia, 20 College Road, Discovery Tower, 169856, Singapore.,School of Biological Sciences, Nanyang Technological University Singapore, 60 Nanyang Drive, 637551, Singapore
| | - Qingxiao Xi
- Anti-Infectives Research Group, Singapore Eye Research Institute, The Academia, 20 College Road, Discovery Tower, 169856, Singapore
| | - Goh Leng
- Anti-Infectives Research Group, Singapore Eye Research Institute, The Academia, 20 College Road, Discovery Tower, 169856, Singapore
| | - Siew Kwan Koh
- Ocular Proteomics Laboratory, Singapore Eye Research Institute, The Academia, 20 College Road, Discovery Tower, 169856, Singapore
| | - Toh Jie
- Anti-Infectives Research Group, Singapore Eye Research Institute, The Academia, 20 College Road, Discovery Tower, 169856, Singapore
| | - Veluchamy Amutha Barathi
- Anti-Infectives Research Group, Singapore Eye Research Institute, The Academia, 20 College Road, Discovery Tower, 169856, Singapore.,Department of Ophthalmology, Yong Loo Lin School of Medicine, National University of Singapore, 119077, Singapore.,Ophthalmology and Visual Sciences Academic Clinical Program, Duke-NUS Graduate Medical School, 169857, Singapore
| | - Mobashar Hussain Urf Turabe Fazil
- Lee Kong Chian School of Medicine, Nanyang Technological University Singapore, 11 Mandalay Road, Clinical Sciences Building, 308232, Singapore
| | - Madhavi Latha Somaraju Chalasani
- Lee Kong Chian School of Medicine, Nanyang Technological University Singapore, 11 Mandalay Road, Clinical Sciences Building, 308232, Singapore
| | - Jayasudha Varadarajan
- Anti-Infectives Research Group, Singapore Eye Research Institute, The Academia, 20 College Road, Discovery Tower, 169856, Singapore
| | - Darren Shu Jeng Ting
- Anti-Infectives Research Group, Singapore Eye Research Institute, The Academia, 20 College Road, Discovery Tower, 169856, Singapore.,Academic Ophthalmology, University of Nottingham, Nottingham NG7 2RD, U.K
| | - Roger W Beuerman
- Anti-Infectives Research Group, Singapore Eye Research Institute, The Academia, 20 College Road, Discovery Tower, 169856, Singapore.,Ophthalmology and Visual Sciences Academic Clinical Program, Duke-NUS Graduate Medical School, 169857, Singapore
| | - Lai Wah Chan
- Department of Pharmacy, National University of Singapore, 18 Science Drive, 117543, Singapore
| | - Rupesh Agrawal
- National Healthcare Group Eye Institute, Tan Tock Seng Hospital, 308433, Singapore
| | - Barkham Sebastian
- Department of Laboratory Medicine, Tan Tock Seng Hospital, 11 Jalan Tan Tock Seng, 308433, Singapore
| | - Lei Zhou
- Ocular Proteomics Laboratory, Singapore Eye Research Institute, The Academia, 20 College Road, Discovery Tower, 169856, Singapore.,Department of Ophthalmology, Yong Loo Lin School of Medicine, National University of Singapore, 119077, Singapore.,Ophthalmology and Visual Sciences Academic Clinical Program, Duke-NUS Graduate Medical School, 169857, Singapore
| | - Navin Kumar Verma
- Anti-Infectives Research Group, Singapore Eye Research Institute, The Academia, 20 College Road, Discovery Tower, 169856, Singapore.,Lee Kong Chian School of Medicine, Nanyang Technological University Singapore, 11 Mandalay Road, Clinical Sciences Building, 308232, Singapore.,Skin Research Institute of Singapore, 11 Mandalay Road, Clinical Sciences Building, 308232, Singapore
| | - Rajamani Lakshminarayanan
- Anti-Infectives Research Group, Singapore Eye Research Institute, The Academia, 20 College Road, Discovery Tower, 169856, Singapore.,Ophthalmology and Visual Sciences Academic Clinical Program, Duke-NUS Graduate Medical School, 169857, Singapore.,Department of Pharmacy, National University of Singapore, 18 Science Drive, 117543, Singapore
| |
Collapse
|
30
|
Melittin-A Natural Peptide from Bee Venom Which Induces Apoptosis in Human Leukaemia Cells. Biomolecules 2020; 10:biom10020247. [PMID: 32041197 PMCID: PMC7072249 DOI: 10.3390/biom10020247] [Citation(s) in RCA: 47] [Impact Index Per Article: 11.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/27/2019] [Revised: 01/29/2020] [Accepted: 02/04/2020] [Indexed: 12/11/2022] Open
Abstract
Bee venom is a very complex mixture produced and secreted by the honeybee (Apis mellifera). Melittin is a major component of bee venom that accounts for about 52% of its dry mass. A vast number of studies have been dedicated to the effects of melittin’s regulation of apoptosis and to the factors that induce apoptosis in various types of cancer such as breast, ovarian, prostate, lung. The latest evidence indicates its potential as a therapeutic agent in the treatment of leukaemia. The aim of our present study is to evaluate melittin’s ability to induce apoptosis in leukaemia cell lines of different origin acute lymphoblastic leukaemia (CCRF-CEM) and chronic myelogenous leukaemia (K-562). We demonstrated that melittin strongly reduced cell viability in both leukaemia cell lines but not in physiological peripheral blood mononuclear cells (PMBCs). Subsequent estimated parameters (mitochondrial membrane potential, Annexin V binding and Caspases 3/7 activity) clearly demonstrated that melittin induced apoptosis in leukaemia cells. This is a very important step for research into the development of new potential anti-leukaemia as well as anticancer therapies. Further analyses on the molecular level have been also planned (analysis of proapoptotic genes expression and DNA damages) for our next research project, which will also focus on melittin.
Collapse
|
31
|
|
32
|
Chen W, Yang S, Li S, Lang JC, Mao C, Kroll P, Tang L, Dong H. Self-Assembled Peptide Nanofibers Display Natural Antimicrobial Peptides to Selectively Kill Bacteria without Compromising Cytocompatibility. ACS APPLIED MATERIALS & INTERFACES 2019; 11:28681-28689. [PMID: 31328913 DOI: 10.1021/acsami.9b09583] [Citation(s) in RCA: 46] [Impact Index Per Article: 9.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 06/10/2023]
Abstract
One of the major hurdles in the development of antimicrobial peptide (AMP)-based materials is their poor capacity in selectively killing bacteria without harming nearby mammalian cells. Namely, they are antimicrobial but cytotoxic. Current methods of nanoparticle-encapsulated AMPs to target bacteria selectively still have not yet overcome this hurdle. Here, we demonstrate a simple yet effective method to address this daunting challenge by associating a natural AMP with a β-sheet-forming synthetic peptide. The integrated peptides self-assembled to form a supramolecular nanofiber, resulting in the presentation of the AMP at the nanofiber-solvent interface in a precisely controlled manner. Using melittin as a model natural AMP, we found that the conformation of melittin changed dramatically when presented on the nanofiber surface, which, in turn, modulated the induced membrane permeability of the bacterial and mammalian cell membranes. Specifically, the presentation of melittin on the nanofiber restricted its hydrophobic residues, leading to a reduction of the hydrophobic interaction with lipids in the cell membranes. Compellingly, the reduced hydrophobic interaction led to a considerable decrease of melittin's induced permeability of the mammalian cell membrane than that of the bacterial cell membrane. As a result, the AMP-displaying nanofiber preferentially permeabilized and disrupted the membrane of the bacteria without compromising the mammalian cells. Such improved membrane selectivity and cytocompatibility were confirmed in a cell-based membrane localization and live-dead assay. Our new strategy holds great promise for fabricating cytocompatible antimicrobial assemblies that offer safer and more effective administration of therapeutic AMPs. These assemblies, with intrinsic antimicrobial activity and cytocompatibility, can also serve as building blocks for the construction of higher-ordered scaffolds for other biomedical applications such as tissue engineering and regenerative medicine.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
| | | | | | | | - Chuanbin Mao
- Department of Chemistry and Biochemistry, Stephenson Life Sciences Research Center , University of Oklahoma , Norman , Oklahoma 73019 , United States
| | | | | | | |
Collapse
|
33
|
Lyu C, Fang F, Li B. Anti-Tumor Effects of Melittin and Its Potential Applications in Clinic. Curr Protein Pept Sci 2019; 20:240-250. [PMID: 29895240 DOI: 10.2174/1389203719666180612084615] [Citation(s) in RCA: 21] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/01/2018] [Revised: 04/10/2018] [Accepted: 05/21/2018] [Indexed: 02/08/2023]
Abstract
Melittin, a major component of bee venom, is a water-soluble toxic peptide of which a various biological effects have been identified to be useful in anti-tumor therapy. In addition, Melittin also has anti-parasitic, anti-bacterial, anti-viral, and anti-inflammatory activities. Therefore, it is a very attractive therapeutic candidate for human diseases. However, melittin induces extensive hemolysis, a severe side effect that dampens its future development and clinical application. Thus, studies of melittin derivatives and new drug delivery systems have been conducted to explore approaches for optimizing the efficacy of this compound, while reducing its toxicity. A number of reviews have focused on each side, respectively. In this review, we summarize the research progress on the anti-tumor effects of melittin and its derivatives, and discuss its future potential clinical applications.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Can Lyu
- Changhai Hospital of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Second Military Medical University, Shanghai, China
| | - Fanfu Fang
- Changhai Hospital of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Second Military Medical University, Shanghai, China
| | - Bai Li
- Changhai Hospital of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Second Military Medical University, Shanghai, China
| |
Collapse
|
34
|
Pandidan S, Mechler A. Nano-viscosimetry analysis of the membrane disrupting action of the bee venom peptide melittin. Sci Rep 2019; 9:10841. [PMID: 31346251 PMCID: PMC6658469 DOI: 10.1038/s41598-019-47325-y] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/08/2019] [Accepted: 07/10/2019] [Indexed: 12/30/2022] Open
Abstract
Melittin is one of the most studied α-helical cationic membrane disrupting peptides. It is the main component of bee venom, however it is considered an antimicrobial peptide for its ability to kill bacteria. Melittin is believed to act by opening large toroidal pores in the plasma membrane of the targeted cells/bacteria, although this is questioned by some authors. Little is known, however, about the molecular mechanism leading to this activity. In this study the mechanism of action of melittin was studied by dye leakage and quartz crystal microbalance fingerprinting analysis in biomimetic model membranes. The results revealed the existence of multiple stages in the membrane disrupting action with characteristic differences between different membrane types. In bacterial-mimetic (charged) lipid mixtures the viscoelastic fingerprints suggest a surface-acting mechanism, whereas in mammalian-mimetic (neutral) membranes melittin appears to penetrate the bilayer already at low concentrations. In domain-forming mixed membranes melittin shows a preference for the domain containing predominantly zwitterionic lipids. The results confirm membrane poration but are inconsistent with the insertion-to-toroidal pore pathway. Therefore hypotheses of the two membrane disrupting pathways were developed, describing the membrane disruption as either surface tension modulation leading to toroidal pore formation, or linear aggregation leading to fissure formation in the membrane.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Sara Pandidan
- La Trobe Institute for Molecular Science, La Trobe University, Melbourne, Australia
| | - Adam Mechler
- La Trobe Institute for Molecular Science, La Trobe University, Melbourne, Australia.
| |
Collapse
|
35
|
Hong J, Lu X, Deng Z, Xiao S, Yuan B, Yang K. How Melittin Inserts into Cell Membrane: Conformational Changes, Inter-Peptide Cooperation, and Disturbance on the Membrane. Molecules 2019; 24:molecules24091775. [PMID: 31067828 PMCID: PMC6539814 DOI: 10.3390/molecules24091775] [Citation(s) in RCA: 53] [Impact Index Per Article: 10.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/12/2019] [Revised: 05/02/2019] [Accepted: 05/03/2019] [Indexed: 01/27/2023] Open
Abstract
Antimicrobial peptides (AMPs), as a key component of the immune defense systems of organisms, are a promising solution to the serious threat of drug-resistant bacteria to public health. As one of the most representative and extensively studied AMPs, melittin has exceptional broad-spectrum activities against microorganisms, including both Gram-positive and Gram-negative bacteria. Unfortunately, the action mechanism of melittin with bacterial membranes, especially the underlying physics of peptide-induced membrane poration behaviors, is still poorly understood, which hampers efforts to develop melittin-based drugs or agents for clinical applications. In this mini-review, we focus on recent advances with respect to the membrane insertion behavior of melittin mostly from a computational aspect. Membrane insertion is a prerequisite and key step for forming transmembrane pores and bacterial killing by melittin, whose occurrence is based on overcoming a high free-energy barrier during the transition of melittin molecules from a membrane surface-binding state to a transmembrane-inserting state. Here, intriguing simulation results on such transition are highlighted from both kinetic and thermodynamic aspects. The conformational changes and inter-peptide cooperation of melittin molecules, as well as melittin-induced disturbances to membrane structure, such as deformation and lipid extraction, are regarded as key factors influencing the insertion of peptides into membranes. The associated intermediate states in peptide conformations, lipid arrangements, membrane structure, and mechanical properties during this process are specifically discussed. Finally, potential strategies for enhancing the poration ability and improving the antimicrobial performance of AMPs are included as well.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Jiajia Hong
- Center for Soft Condensed Matter Physics and Interdisciplinary Research & School of Physical Science and Technology, Soochow University, Suzhou 215006, China.
| | - Xuemei Lu
- Center for Soft Condensed Matter Physics and Interdisciplinary Research & School of Physical Science and Technology, Soochow University, Suzhou 215006, China.
| | - Zhixiong Deng
- Center for Soft Condensed Matter Physics and Interdisciplinary Research & School of Physical Science and Technology, Soochow University, Suzhou 215006, China.
| | - Shufeng Xiao
- Center for Soft Condensed Matter Physics and Interdisciplinary Research & School of Physical Science and Technology, Soochow University, Suzhou 215006, China.
| | - Bing Yuan
- Center for Soft Condensed Matter Physics and Interdisciplinary Research & School of Physical Science and Technology, Soochow University, Suzhou 215006, China.
| | - Kai Yang
- Center for Soft Condensed Matter Physics and Interdisciplinary Research & School of Physical Science and Technology, Soochow University, Suzhou 215006, China.
| |
Collapse
|
36
|
Kurgan KW, Kleman AF, Bingman CA, Kreitler DF, Weisblum B, Forest KT, Gellman SH. Retention of Native Quaternary Structure in Racemic Melittin Crystals. J Am Chem Soc 2019; 141:7704-7708. [PMID: 31059253 DOI: 10.1021/jacs.9b02691] [Citation(s) in RCA: 13] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/28/2022]
Abstract
Racemic crystallography has been used to elucidate the secondary and tertiary structures of peptides and small proteins that are recalcitrant to conventional crystallization. It is unclear, however, whether racemic crystallography can capture native quaternary structure, which could be disrupted by heterochiral associations. We are exploring the use of racemic crystallography to characterize the self-assembly behavior of membrane-associated peptides, very few of which have been crystallized. We report a racemic crystal structure of the membrane-active peptide melittin; the new structure allows comparison with a previously reported crystal structure of L-melittin. The tetrameric assembly observed in crystalline L-melittin has been proposed to represent the tetrameric state detected in solution for this peptide. This tetrameric assembly is precisely reproduced in the racemic crystal, which strengthens the conclusion that the tetramer is biologically relevant. More broadly, these findings suggest that racemic crystallography can provide insight on native quaternary structure.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
| | | | | | - Dale F Kreitler
- Department of Structural Biology, Jacobs School of Medicine and Biomedical Sciences , University at Buffalo , Buffalo , New York 14203-1102 , United States
| | | | | | | |
Collapse
|
37
|
Melittin-Induced Permeabilization, Re-sealing, and Re-permeabilization of E. coli Membranes. Biophys J 2019; 114:368-379. [PMID: 29401434 DOI: 10.1016/j.bpj.2017.10.046] [Citation(s) in RCA: 57] [Impact Index Per Article: 11.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/10/2017] [Revised: 10/18/2017] [Accepted: 10/26/2017] [Indexed: 11/21/2022] Open
Abstract
The permeabilization of model lipid bilayers by cationic peptides has been studied extensively over decades, with the bee-sting toxin melittin perhaps serving as the canonical example. However, the relevance of these studies to the permeabilization of real bacterial membranes by antimicrobial peptides remains uncertain. Here, we employ single-cell fluorescence microscopy in a detailed study of the interactions of melittin with the outer membrane (OM) and the cytoplasmic membrane (CM) of live Escherichia coli. Using periplasmic green fluorescent protein (GFP) as a probe, we find that melittin at twice the minimum inhibitory concentration first induces abrupt cell shrinkage and permeabilization of the OM to GFP. Within ∼4 s of OM permeabilization, the CM invaginates to form inward facing "periplasmic bubbles." Seconds later the bubbles begin to leak periplasmic GFP into the cytoplasm. Permeabilization is localized, consistent with possible formation of toroidal pores. Within ∼20 s, first the OM and then the CM re-seals to GFP. Some 2-20 min later, both CM and OM are re-permeabilized to GFP. We invoke a mechanism based on curvature stress concepts derived from model bilayer studies. The permeabilization and re-sealing events involve sequential, time-dependent build-up of melittin density within the outer and inner leaflets of each bilayer. We also propose a mechanical explanation for the early cell shrinkage event induced by melittin and a variety of other cationic peptides. As peptides gain access to the periplasm, they bind to the anionic peptido-crosslinks of the lipopolysaccharide layer, increasing its longitudinal elastic modulus. The cell wall shrinks because it can withstand the same turgor pressure with smaller overall extension. Shrinkage in turn induces invagination of the CM, preserving its surface area. We conclude by comparing the behavior of different peptides.
Collapse
|
38
|
Guha S, Ghimire J, Wu E, Wimley WC. Mechanistic Landscape of Membrane-Permeabilizing Peptides. Chem Rev 2019; 119:6040-6085. [PMID: 30624911 DOI: 10.1021/acs.chemrev.8b00520] [Citation(s) in RCA: 147] [Impact Index Per Article: 29.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/31/2022]
Abstract
Membrane permeabilizing peptides (MPPs) are as ubiquitous as the lipid bilayer membranes they act upon. Produced by all forms of life, most membrane permeabilizing peptides are used offensively or defensively against the membranes of other organisms. Just as nature has found many uses for them, translational scientists have worked for decades to design or optimize membrane permeabilizing peptides for applications in the laboratory and in the clinic ranging from antibacterial and antiviral therapy and prophylaxis to anticancer therapeutics and drug delivery. Here, we review the field of membrane permeabilizing peptides. We discuss the diversity of their sources and structures, the systems and methods used to measure their activities, and the behaviors that are observed. We discuss the fact that "mechanism" is not a discrete or a static entity for an MPP but rather the result of a heterogeneous and dynamic ensemble of structural states that vary in response to many different experimental conditions. This has led to an almost complete lack of discrete three-dimensional active structures among the thousands of known MPPs and a lack of useful or predictive sequence-structure-function relationship rules. Ultimately, we discuss how it may be more useful to think of membrane permeabilizing peptides mechanisms as broad regions of a mechanistic landscape rather than discrete molecular processes.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Shantanu Guha
- Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology Tulane University School of Medicine , New Orleans , Louisiana 70112 , United States
| | - Jenisha Ghimire
- Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology Tulane University School of Medicine , New Orleans , Louisiana 70112 , United States
| | - Eric Wu
- Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology Tulane University School of Medicine , New Orleans , Louisiana 70112 , United States
| | - William C Wimley
- Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology Tulane University School of Medicine , New Orleans , Louisiana 70112 , United States
| |
Collapse
|
39
|
Abstract
Melittin is an extensively studied, 26-residue toxic peptide from honey bee venom. Because of its versatility in adopting a variety of secondary (helix or coil) and quaternary (monomer or tetramer) structures in various environments, melittin has been the focus of numerous investigations as a model peptide in protein folding studies as well as in studies involving binding to proteins, lipids, and polysaccharides. A significant body of evidence supports the view that melittin binds to these macromolecules in a predominantly helical conformation, but detailed structural knowledge of this conformation is lacking. In this report, we present nuclear magnetic resonance (NMR)-based structural insights into the helix formation of recombinant melittin in the presence of trifluoroethanol (TFE): a known secondary structure inducer in peptides. These studies were performed at neutral pH, with micromolar amounts of the peptide. Using nuclear Overhauser effect (NOE)-derived distance restraints from three-dimensional NMR spectra, we determined the atomic resolution solution NMR structure of recombinant melittin bearing a TFE-stabilized helix. To circumvent the complications with structure determination of small peptides with high conformational flexibility, we developed a workflow for enhancing proton NOEs by increasing the viscosity of the medium. In the TFE-containing medium, recombinant monomeric melittin forms a long, continuous helical structure, which consists of the N- and C-terminal α-helices and the noncanonical 310-helix in the middle. The noncanonical 310-helix is missing in the previously solved X-ray structure of tetrameric melittin and the NMR structure of melittin in methanol. Melittin's structure in TFE-containing medium provides insights into melittin's conformational transitions, which are relevant to the peptide's interactions with its biological targets.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Lisa S Ramirez
- Department of Chemistry , State University of New York at Albany , Albany , New York 12222 , United States
| | - Jayanti Pande
- Department of Chemistry , State University of New York at Albany , Albany , New York 12222 , United States
| | - Alexander Shekhtman
- Department of Chemistry , State University of New York at Albany , Albany , New York 12222 , United States
| |
Collapse
|
40
|
Abd El-Wahed AA, Khalifa SA, Sheikh BY, Farag MA, Saeed A, Larik FA, Koca-Caliskan U, AlAjmi MF, Hassan M, Wahabi HA, Hegazy MEF, Algethami AF, Büttner S, El-Seedi HR. Bee Venom Composition: From Chemistry to Biological Activity. STUDIES IN NATURAL PRODUCTS CHEMISTRY 2019:459-484. [DOI: 10.1016/b978-0-444-64181-6.00013-9] [Citation(s) in RCA: 26] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 09/02/2023]
|
41
|
Shi Y, Wan M, Fu L, Zhang S, Wang S, Gao L, Fang W. Peptide-Lipid Interaction Sites Affect Vesicles' Responses to Antimicrobial Peptides. Biophys J 2018; 115:1518-1529. [PMID: 30268538 DOI: 10.1016/j.bpj.2018.08.040] [Citation(s) in RCA: 15] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/23/2018] [Revised: 08/22/2018] [Accepted: 08/30/2018] [Indexed: 11/25/2022] Open
Abstract
This article presents coarse-grained molecular dynamics simulations of pore-forming antimicrobial peptide melittin and its interactions with vesicles composed of a mixture of zwitterionic and anionic phospholipids. Besides creating holes in the membrane, the adsorption of melittin also induces vesicle budding, which can develop into vesiculation at high peptide concentrations, as well as vesicle invagination, which can eventually result in a corrugated membrane surface. These rich morphology changes are mediated by the curvature of the vesicles and the peptide concentration. Highly curved vesicles favor the recruitment of melittins with a higher density of binding sites. The peptides mainly penetrate into the membrane surface in monomers via hydrophobic interaction. Lowly curved vesicles recruit melittins with a low density of binding sites. Surplus peptides are prone to form oligomers and shallowly adsorb on the surface of membrane via electrostatic interaction. The penetration of monomers induces membrane pore formation and positive membrane curvature, which promote vesicle budding. The adsorption of oligomers induces negative membrane curvature, which promotes vesicle invagination. This work demonstrates that antimicrobial peptides adopt multiple actions to destroy bacterial membranes.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Yu Shi
- Key Laboratory of Theoretical and Computational Photochemistry, Ministry of Education, College of Chemistry, Beijing Normal University, Beijing, China
| | - Mingwei Wan
- Key Laboratory of Theoretical and Computational Photochemistry, Ministry of Education, College of Chemistry, Beijing Normal University, Beijing, China
| | - Lei Fu
- Key Laboratory of Theoretical and Computational Photochemistry, Ministry of Education, College of Chemistry, Beijing Normal University, Beijing, China
| | - Shan Zhang
- Key Laboratory of Theoretical and Computational Photochemistry, Ministry of Education, College of Chemistry, Beijing Normal University, Beijing, China
| | - Shiyuan Wang
- Key Laboratory of Theoretical and Computational Photochemistry, Ministry of Education, College of Chemistry, Beijing Normal University, Beijing, China
| | - Lianghui Gao
- Key Laboratory of Theoretical and Computational Photochemistry, Ministry of Education, College of Chemistry, Beijing Normal University, Beijing, China.
| | - Weihai Fang
- Key Laboratory of Theoretical and Computational Photochemistry, Ministry of Education, College of Chemistry, Beijing Normal University, Beijing, China
| |
Collapse
|
42
|
Buck ZN, Torres J, Miskowiec A, Mamontov E, Kaiser H, Hansen FY, Taub H, Tyagi M, Collins L, Herwig KW. Effect of melittin on water diffusion and membrane structure in DMPC lipid bilayers. ACTA ACUST UNITED AC 2018. [DOI: 10.1209/0295-5075/123/18002] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/20/2022]
|
43
|
Ramirez L, Shekhtman A, Pande J. Nuclear Magnetic Resonance-Based Structural Characterization and Backbone Dynamics of Recombinant Bee Venom Melittin. Biochemistry 2018; 57:2775-2785. [PMID: 29668274 DOI: 10.1021/acs.biochem.8b00156] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/29/2022]
Abstract
In recent years, there has been a resurgence of interest in melittin and its variants as their therapeutic potential has become increasingly evident. Melittin is a 26-residue peptide and a toxic component of honey bee venom. The versatility of melittin in interacting with various biological substrates, such as membranes, glycosaminoglycans, and a variety of proteins, has inspired a slew of studies that aim to improve our understanding of the structural basis of such interactions. However, these studies have largely focused on melittin solutions at high concentrations (>1 mM), even though melittin is generally effective at lower (micromolar) concentrations. Here we present high-resolution nuclear magnetic resonance studies in the lower-concentration regime using a novel method to produce isotope-labeled (15N and 13C) recombinant melittin. We provide residue-specific structural characterization of melittin in dilute aqueous solution and in 2,2,2-trifluoroethanol/water mixtures, which mimic melittin structure-function and interactions in aqueous and membrane-like environments, respectively. We find that the cis-trans isomerization of Pro14 is key to changes in the secondary structure of melittin. Thus, this study provides residue-specific structural information about melittin in the free state and in a model of the substrate-bound state. These results, taken together with published work from other laboratories, reveal the peptide's structural versatility that resembles that of intrinsically disordered proteins and peptides.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Lisa Ramirez
- Department of Chemistry , University at Albany, State University of New York , Albany , New York 12222 , United States
| | - Alexander Shekhtman
- Department of Chemistry , University at Albany, State University of New York , Albany , New York 12222 , United States
| | - Jayanti Pande
- Department of Chemistry , University at Albany, State University of New York , Albany , New York 12222 , United States
| |
Collapse
|
44
|
Li S, Kim SY, Pittman AE, King GM, Wimley WC, Hristova K. Potent Macromolecule-Sized Poration of Lipid Bilayers by the Macrolittins, A Synthetically Evolved Family of Pore-Forming Peptides. J Am Chem Soc 2018; 140:6441-6447. [DOI: 10.1021/jacs.8b03026] [Citation(s) in RCA: 31] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/04/2023]
Affiliation(s)
- Sijia Li
- Materials Science and Engineering, Johns Hopkins University, Baltimore, Maryland 21218, United States
| | - Sarah Y. Kim
- Materials Science and Engineering, Johns Hopkins University, Baltimore, Maryland 21218, United States
| | - Anna E. Pittman
- Physics and Astronomy, University of Missouri, Columbia, Missouri 65201, United States
| | - Gavin M. King
- Physics and Astronomy, University of Missouri, Columbia, Missouri 65201, United States
- Biochemistry, University of Missouri, Columbia, Missouri 65201, United States
| | - William C. Wimley
- Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, Tulane University School of Medicine, New Orleans, Louisiana 70112, United States
| | - Kalina Hristova
- Materials Science and Engineering, Johns Hopkins University, Baltimore, Maryland 21218, United States
| |
Collapse
|
45
|
Abstract
Bacterial membranes represent an attractive target for the design of new antibiotics to combat widespread bacterial resistance to traditional inhibitor-based antibiotics. Understanding how antimicrobial peptides (AMPs) and other membrane-active agents attack membranes could facilitate the design of new, effective antimicrobials. AMPs, which are small, gene-encoded host defense proteins, offer a promising basis for the study of membrane-active antimicrobial agents. These peptides are cationic and amphipathic, spontaneously binding to bacterial membranes and inducing transmembrane permeability to small molecules. Yet there are often confusions surrounding the details of the molecular mechanisms of AMPs. Following the doctrine of structure-function relationship, AMPs are often viewed as the molecular scaffolding of pores in membranes. Instead we believe that the full mechanism of AMPs is understandable if we consider the interactions of AMPs with the whole membrane domain, where interactions induce structural transformations of the entire membrane, rather than forming localized molecular structures. We believe that it is necessary to consider the entire soft matter peptide-membrane system as it evolves through several distinct states. Accordingly, we have developed experimental techniques to investigate the state and structure of the membrane as a function of the bound peptide to lipid ratio, exactly as AMPs in solution progressively bind to the membrane and induce structural changes to the entire system. The results from these studies suggest that global interactions of AMPs with the membrane domain are of fundamental importance to understanding the antimicrobial mechanisms of AMPs.
Collapse
|
46
|
Naito A, Matsumori N, Ramamoorthy A. Dynamic membrane interactions of antibacterial and antifungal biomolecules, and amyloid peptides, revealed by solid-state NMR spectroscopy. Biochim Biophys Acta Gen Subj 2018; 1862:307-323. [PMID: 28599848 PMCID: PMC6384124 DOI: 10.1016/j.bbagen.2017.06.004] [Citation(s) in RCA: 31] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/23/2017] [Revised: 05/28/2017] [Accepted: 06/02/2017] [Indexed: 12/12/2022]
Abstract
A variety of biomolecules acting on the cell membrane folds into a biologically active structure in the membrane environment. It is, therefore, important to determine the structures and dynamics of such biomolecules in a membrane environment. While several biophysical techniques are used to obtain low-resolution information, solid-state NMR spectroscopy is one of the most powerful means for determining the structure and dynamics of membrane bound biomolecules such as antibacterial biomolecules and amyloidogenic proteins; unlike X-ray crystallography and solution NMR spectroscopy, applications of solid-state NMR spectroscopy are not limited by non-crystalline, non-soluble nature or molecular size of membrane-associated biomolecules. This review article focuses on the applications of solid-state NMR techniques to study a few selected antibacterial and amyloid peptides. Solid-state NMR studies revealing the membrane inserted bent α-helical structure associated with the hemolytic activity of bee venom melittin and the chemical shift oscillation analysis used to determine the transmembrane structure (with α-helix and 310-helix in the N- and C-termini, respectively) of antibiotic peptide alamethicin are discussed in detail. Oligomerization of an amyloidogenic islet amyloid polypeptide (IAPP, or also known as amylin) resulting from its aggregation in a membrane environment, molecular interactions of the antifungal natural product amphotericin B with ergosterol in lipid bilayers, and the mechanism of lipid raft formation by sphingomyelin studied using solid state NMR methods are also discussed in this review article. This article is part of a Special Issue entitled "Biophysical Exploration of Dynamical Ordering of Biomolecular Systems" edited by Dr. Koichi Kato.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Akira Naito
- Graduate School of Engineering, Yokohama National University, Yokohama 240-8501, Japan.
| | - Nobuaki Matsumori
- Department of Chemistry, Graduate School of Science, Kyushu University, Fukuoka 819-0395, Japan
| | - Ayyalusamy Ramamoorthy
- Biophysics Program, University of Michigan, Ann Arbor, MI 48109-1055, USA; Department of Chemistry, University of Michigan, Ann Arbor, MI 48109-1055, USA
| |
Collapse
|
47
|
Lee MT, Hung WC, Hsieh MH, Chen H, Chang YY, Huang HW. Molecular State of the Membrane-Active Antibiotic Daptomycin. Biophys J 2017; 113:82-90. [PMID: 28700928 DOI: 10.1016/j.bpj.2017.05.025] [Citation(s) in RCA: 30] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/30/2017] [Revised: 05/19/2017] [Accepted: 05/22/2017] [Indexed: 11/27/2022] Open
Abstract
Membrane-active antibiotics are potential alternatives to the resistance-prone conventional antibiotics. Daptomycin, a cyclic lipopeptide, is the only membrane-active antibiotic approved by the U.S. Food and Drug Administration so far. The drug interacts with the cytoplasmic membranes of Gram-positive pathogens, causing membrane permeabilization to ions and cell death. The antibiotic activity is calcium-ion dependent and correlates with the target membrane's content of phosphatidylglycerol (PG). For such a complex reaction with membranes, it has been difficult to uncover the molecular process that underlies its antibacterial activity. The role of the cofactor, calcium ions, has been confusing. Many have proposed that calcium ions binding to daptomycin is a precondition for membrane interaction. Here, we report our findings on the molecular state of daptomycin before and after its membrane-binding reaction, particularly at therapeutic concentrations in the low micromolar range. We were able to perform small-angle x-ray scattering at sufficiently low daptomycin concentrations to determine that the molecules are monomeric before membrane binding. By careful circular dichroism (CD) analyses of daptomycin with Ca2+ and PG-containing membranes, we found that there are only two states identifiable by CD, one before and another after membrane binding; all other CD spectra are linear combinations of the two. Before membrane binding, the molecular state of daptomycin as defined by CD is the same with or without calcium ions. We are able to determine the stoichiometric ratios of the membrane-binding reaction. The stoichiometric ratio of daptomycin to calcium is 2:3. The stoichiometric ratio of daptomycin to PG is ∼1:1 if only the PG lipids in the outer leaflets of membranes are accessible to daptomycin.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Ming-Tao Lee
- National Synchrotron Radiation Research Center, Hsinchu, Taiwan; Department of Physics, National Central University, Jhongli, Taiwan
| | - Wei-Chin Hung
- Department of Physics, R. O. C. Military Academy, Fengshan, Kaohsiung, Taiwan
| | - Meng-Hsuan Hsieh
- Institute of Biotechnology, National Taiwan University, Taipei, Taiwan
| | - Hsiung Chen
- National Synchrotron Radiation Research Center, Hsinchu, Taiwan
| | - Yu-Yung Chang
- National Synchrotron Radiation Research Center, Hsinchu, Taiwan
| | - Huey W Huang
- Department of Physics and Astronomy, Rice University, Houston, Texas.
| |
Collapse
|
48
|
Hung A, Kuyucak S, Schroeder CI, Kaas Q. Modelling the interactions between animal venom peptides and membrane proteins. Neuropharmacology 2017; 127:20-31. [PMID: 28778835 DOI: 10.1016/j.neuropharm.2017.07.036] [Citation(s) in RCA: 13] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/27/2017] [Revised: 07/18/2017] [Accepted: 07/31/2017] [Indexed: 12/19/2022]
Abstract
The active components of animal venoms are mostly peptide toxins, which typically target ion channels and receptors of both the central and peripheral nervous system, interfering with action potential conduction and/or synaptic transmission. The high degree of sequence conservation of their molecular targets makes a range of these toxins active at human receptors. The high selectivity and potency displayed by some of these toxins have prompted their use as pharmacological tools as well as drugs or drug leads. Molecular modelling has played an essential role in increasing our molecular-level understanding of the activity and specificity of animal toxins, as well as engineering them for biotechnological and pharmaceutical applications. This review focuses on the biological insights gained from computational and experimental studies of animal venom toxins interacting with membranes and ion channels. A host of recent X-ray crystallography and electron-microscopy structures of the toxin targets has contributed to a dramatic increase in the accuracy of the molecular models of toxin binding modes greatly advancing this exciting field of study. This article is part of the Special Issue entitled 'Venom-derived Peptides as Pharmacological Tools.'
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Andrew Hung
- School of Science, RMIT University, GPO Box 2476, Melbourne, Victoria 3001, Australia
| | - Serdar Kuyucak
- School of Physics, University of Sydney, Sydney, New South Wales 2006, Australia
| | - Christina I Schroeder
- Institute for Molecular Bioscience, The University of Queensland, Brisbane 4072, Australia
| | - Quentin Kaas
- Institute for Molecular Bioscience, The University of Queensland, Brisbane 4072, Australia.
| |
Collapse
|
49
|
Faust JE, Yang PY, Huang HW. Action of Antimicrobial Peptides on Bacterial and Lipid Membranes: A Direct Comparison. Biophys J 2017; 112:1663-1672. [PMID: 28445757 PMCID: PMC5406281 DOI: 10.1016/j.bpj.2017.03.003] [Citation(s) in RCA: 41] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/16/2016] [Revised: 03/02/2017] [Accepted: 03/03/2017] [Indexed: 11/29/2022] Open
Abstract
The bacterial membrane represents an attractive target for the design of new antibiotics to combat widespread bacterial resistance. Understanding how antimicrobial peptides (AMPs) and other membrane-active agents attack membranes could facilitate the design of new, effective antimicrobials. Despite intense study of AMPs on model membranes, we do not know how well the mechanism of attack translates to real biological membranes. To that end, we have characterized the attack of AMPs on Escherichia coli cytoplasmic membranes and directly compared this action to model membranes. AMPs induce membrane permeability in E. coli spheroplasts or giant unilamellar vesicles (GUVs) under well-defined concentrations of AMPs and fluorescent molecules. The action of AMPs on spheroplasts is unique in producing an intracellular fluorescence intensity time curve that increases in a sigmoidal fashion to a steady state. This regular pattern is reproducible by melittin, LL37, and alamethicin but not by CCCP or daptomycin, agents known to cause ion leakage. Remarkably, a similar pattern was also reproduced in GUVs. Indeed the steady-state membrane permeability induced by AMPs is quantitatively the same in spheroplasts and GUVs. There are, however, interesting dissimilarities in details that reveal differences between bacterial and lipid membranes. Spheroplast membranes are permeabilized by a wide range of AMP concentrations to the same steady-state membrane permeability. In contrast, only a narrow range of AMP concentrations permeabilized GUVs to a steady state. Tension in GUVs also influences the action of AMPs, whereas the spheroplast membranes are tensionless. Despite these differences, our results provide a strong support for using model membranes to study the molecular interactions of AMPs with bacterial membranes. As far as we know, this is the first time the actions of AMPs, on bacterial membranes and on model membranes, have been directly and quantitatively compared.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Joseph E Faust
- Department of Physics and Astronomy, Rice University, Houston, Texas
| | - Pei-Yin Yang
- Department of Physics and Astronomy, Rice University, Houston, Texas
| | - Huey W Huang
- Department of Physics and Astronomy, Rice University, Houston, Texas.
| |
Collapse
|
50
|
Ortuso RD, Cataldi U, Sugihara K. Mechanosensitivity of polydiacetylene with a phosphocholine headgroup. SOFT MATTER 2017; 13:1728-1736. [PMID: 28165098 DOI: 10.1039/c6sm02579j] [Citation(s) in RCA: 12] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 06/06/2023]
Abstract
We have demonstrated colorimetric and fluorescence detection of a peptide, melittin, based on polydiacetylene (PDA) made of 1,2-bis(10,12-tricosadiynoyl)-sn-glycero-3-phosphocholine (DC(8,9)PC). The PDA used in this work has a phosphocholine headgroup, which mimics peptide-cell membrane interactions better than the conventional PDAs with carboxyl headgroups. The dose curve (colorimetric response vs. melittin concentration) showed a half maximum response at the melittin concentration of 0.1 mg ml-1, which is similar to that reported in traditional PDA assays. It suggests that the replacement of the headgroup was achieved without sacrificing the sensitivity. From the dose curve, the Hill coefficient was extracted as αHill = 2.1. The value is in agreement with the results from previous melittin studies with phospholipids, which reflects the benefit of having a biologically relevant headgroup. In addition, we found an unexpectedly slow spectral change when DC(8,9)PC-PDA was incubated with melittin. The origin of the time-dependent signal was studied by combining UV/VIS spectroscopy, fluorescence spectroscopy and dynamic light scattering.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Roberto Diego Ortuso
- Department of Physical Chemistry, University of Geneva, Quai Ernest Ansermet 30, 1211 Geneva 4, Switzerland.
| | - Ugo Cataldi
- Department of Physical Chemistry, University of Geneva, Quai Ernest Ansermet 30, 1211 Geneva 4, Switzerland.
| | - Kaori Sugihara
- Department of Physical Chemistry, University of Geneva, Quai Ernest Ansermet 30, 1211 Geneva 4, Switzerland.
| |
Collapse
|