1
|
Huynh NT, Ho TNT, Pham YND, Dang LH, Pham SH, Dang TT. Immunosuppressive Cyclotides: A Promising Approach for Treating Autoimmune Diseases. Protein J 2024; 43:159-170. [PMID: 38485875 DOI: 10.1007/s10930-024-10188-y] [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] [Accepted: 02/26/2024] [Indexed: 05/01/2024]
Abstract
The immune system maintains constant surveillance to prevent the infiltration of both endogenous and exogenous threats into host organisms. The process is regulated by effector immune cells that combat external pathogens and regulatory immune cells that inhibit excessive internal body inflammation, ultimately establishing a state of homeostasis within the body. Disruption to this process could lead to autoimmunity, which is often associated with the malfunction of both T cells and B cells with T cells playing a more major role. A number of therapeutic mediators for autoimmune diseases are available, from conventional disease-modifying drugs to biologic agents and small molecule inhibitors. Recently, ribosomally synthesized peptides, specifically cyclotides from plants are currently attracting more attention as potential autoimmune disease therapeutics due to their decreased toxicity compared to small molecules inhibitors as well as their remarkable stability against a number of factors. This review provides a concise overview of various cyclotides exhibiting immunomodulatory properties and their potential as therapeutic interventions for autoimmune diseases.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Nguyen Thai Huynh
- Faculty of Food Science and Technology, Ho Chi Minh City University of Industry and Trade, 140 Le Trong Tan Street, Tay Thanh Ward, Tan Phu District, Ho Chi Minh City, Vietnam
| | - Thao N T Ho
- Institute of Applied Materials Science, Vietnam Academy of Science and Technology, 1B TL29, District 12, Ho Chi Minh City, Vietnam
| | - Yen N D Pham
- Institute of Applied Materials Science, Vietnam Academy of Science and Technology, 1B TL29, District 12, Ho Chi Minh City, Vietnam
| | - Le Hang Dang
- Institute of Applied Materials Science, Vietnam Academy of Science and Technology, 1B TL29, District 12, Ho Chi Minh City, Vietnam
| | - Son H Pham
- Institute of Applied Materials Science, Vietnam Academy of Science and Technology, 1B TL29, District 12, Ho Chi Minh City, Vietnam
| | - Tien T Dang
- Institute of Applied Materials Science, Vietnam Academy of Science and Technology, 1B TL29, District 12, Ho Chi Minh City, Vietnam.
- Graduate University of Science and Technology, Vietnam Academy of Science and Technology, Hanoi, 100000, Vietnam.
| |
Collapse
|
2
|
Eteme ON, Zondegoumba EN, Tadayozzi YS, Serafim JA, Leite WQ, de Freitas Genari Severino M, Vicente EF. Methods for extraction, isolation and sequencing of cyclotides and others cyclic peptides with anti-helminthic activities: An overview. Parasitol Int 2024; 98:102808. [PMID: 37717651 DOI: 10.1016/j.parint.2023.102808] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/26/2023] [Revised: 08/21/2023] [Accepted: 09/07/2023] [Indexed: 09/19/2023]
Abstract
The mortality rate caused by parasitic worms on their hosts is of great concern and studies have been carried out to find molecules to reduce the prevalence, host-parasite interaction, and resistance of parasites to treatments. Existing drugs on the market are very often toxic and have many side effects, hence the need to find new, more active molecules. It has been demonstrated in several works that medicinal plants constitute a wide range of new molecules that can solve this problem. Several works have already been able to demonstrate that cyclic peptides of plant origin have shown good activity in the fight against different types of helminths. Therefore, this review aims to provide a general overview of the methods and techniques of extraction, isolation, activities and mechanisms of action of cyclotides and other cyclic peptides for application in the treatment of helminthic infections.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Olivier Ndogo Eteme
- São Paulo State University (UNESP), School of Sciences and Engineering, Tupã, São Paulo 17602-496, Brazil; University of Yaounde I, Faculty of Science, Department of Organic Chemistry, PO. BOX 812, Cameroon.
| | | | - Yasmin Saegusa Tadayozzi
- São Paulo State University (UNESP), School of Sciences and Engineering, Tupã, São Paulo 17602-496, Brazil
| | - Jessica Aparecida Serafim
- São Paulo State University (UNESP), School of Sciences and Engineering, Tupã, São Paulo 17602-496, Brazil
| | - Wendell Queiroz Leite
- São Paulo State University (UNESP), School of Agricultural and Veterinarian Sciences, Jaboticabal 14884-900, Brazil
| | | | - Eduardo Festozo Vicente
- São Paulo State University (UNESP), School of Sciences and Engineering, Tupã, São Paulo 17602-496, Brazil.
| |
Collapse
|
3
|
Philippe GJB, Huang YH, Mittermeier A, Brown CJ, Kaas Q, Ramlan SR, Wang CK, Lane D, Loewer A, Troeira Henriques S, Craik DJ. Delivery to, and Reactivation of, the p53 Pathway in Cancer Cells Using a Grafted Cyclotide Conjugated with a Cell-Penetrating Peptide. J Med Chem 2024; 67:1197-1208. [PMID: 38174919 DOI: 10.1021/acs.jmedchem.3c01682] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/05/2024]
Abstract
Peptides are promising drug modalities that can modulate protein-protein interactions, but their application is hampered by their limited ability to reach intracellular targets. Here, we improved the cytosolic delivery of a peptide blocking p53:MDM2/X interactions using a cyclotide as a stabilizing scaffold. We applied several design strategies to improve intracellular delivery and found that the conjugation of the lead cyclotide to the cyclic cell-penetrating peptide cR10 was the most effective. Conjugation allowed cell internalization at micromolar concentration and led to elevated intracellular p53 levels in A549, MCF7, and MCF10A cells, as well as inducing apoptosis in A549 cells without causing membrane disruption. The lead peptide had >35-fold improvement in inhibitory activity and increased cellular uptake compared to a previously reported cyclotide p53 activator. In summary, we demonstrated the delivery of a large polar cyclic peptide in the cytosol and confirmed its ability to modulate intracellular protein-protein interactions involved in cancer.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Grégoire Jean-Baptiste Philippe
- Institute for Molecular Bioscience, Australian Research Council Centre of Excellence for Innovations in Peptide and Protein Science, The University of Queensland, Brisbane, Queensland 4072, Australia
- School of Biomedical Sciences, Queensland University of Technology, Translational Research Institute, Brisbane, Queensland 4102, Australia
| | - Yen-Hua Huang
- Institute for Molecular Bioscience, Australian Research Council Centre of Excellence for Innovations in Peptide and Protein Science, The University of Queensland, Brisbane, Queensland 4072, Australia
| | - Anna Mittermeier
- Department of Biology, Technical University Darmstadt, 64287 Darmstadt, Germany
| | - Christopher J Brown
- Institute of Molecular and Cell Biology (IMCB), Agency for Science, Technology and Research (A*STAR), 61 Biopolis Drive, Proteos, Singapore 138673, Singapore
| | - Quentin Kaas
- Institute for Molecular Bioscience, Australian Research Council Centre of Excellence for Innovations in Peptide and Protein Science, The University of Queensland, Brisbane, Queensland 4072, Australia
| | - Siti Radhiah Ramlan
- Institute of Molecular and Cell Biology (IMCB), Agency for Science, Technology and Research (A*STAR), 61 Biopolis Drive, Proteos, Singapore 138673, Singapore
| | - Conan K Wang
- Institute for Molecular Bioscience, Australian Research Council Centre of Excellence for Innovations in Peptide and Protein Science, The University of Queensland, Brisbane, Queensland 4072, Australia
| | - David Lane
- Institute of Molecular and Cell Biology (IMCB), Agency for Science, Technology and Research (A*STAR), 61 Biopolis Drive, Proteos, Singapore 138673, Singapore
| | - Alexander Loewer
- Department of Biology, Technical University Darmstadt, 64287 Darmstadt, Germany
| | - Sónia Troeira Henriques
- School of Biomedical Sciences, Queensland University of Technology, Translational Research Institute, Brisbane, Queensland 4102, Australia
| | - David J Craik
- Institute for Molecular Bioscience, Australian Research Council Centre of Excellence for Innovations in Peptide and Protein Science, The University of Queensland, Brisbane, Queensland 4072, Australia
| |
Collapse
|
4
|
Ivánczi M, Balogh B, Kis L, Mándity I. Molecular Dynamics Simulations of Drug-Conjugated Cell-Penetrating Peptides. Pharmaceuticals (Basel) 2023; 16:1251. [PMID: 37765059 PMCID: PMC10535489 DOI: 10.3390/ph16091251] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/16/2023] [Revised: 08/08/2023] [Accepted: 08/11/2023] [Indexed: 09/29/2023] Open
Abstract
Cell-penetrating peptides (CPPs) are small peptides capable of translocating through biological membranes carrying various attached cargo into cells and even into the nucleus. They may also participate in transcellular transport. Our in silico study intends to model several peptides and their conjugates. We have selected three CPPs with a linear backbone, including penetratin, a naturally occurring oligopeptide; two of its modified sequence analogues (6,14-Phe-penetratin and dodeca-penetratin); and three natural CPPs with a cyclic backbone: Kalata B1, the Sunflower trypsin inhibitor 1 (SFT1), and Momordica cochinchinensis trypsin inhibitor II (MCoTI-II). We have also built conjugates with the small-molecule drug compounds doxorubicin, zidovudine, and rasagiline for each peptide. Molecular dynamics (MD) simulations were carried out with explicit membrane models. The analysis of the trajectories showed that the interaction of penetratin with the membrane led to spectacular rearrangements in the secondary structure of the peptide, while cyclic peptides remained unchanged due to their high conformational stability. Membrane-peptide and membrane-conjugate interactions have been identified and compared. Taking into account well-known examples from the literature, our simulations demonstrated the utility of computational methods for CPP complexes, and they may contribute to a better understanding of the mechanism of penetration, which could serve as the basis for delivering conjugated drug molecules to their intracellular targets.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Márton Ivánczi
- Institute of Organic Chemistry, Semmelweis University, Hőgyes Endre Utca 7., H-1092 Budapest, Hungary (L.K.)
| | - Balázs Balogh
- Institute of Organic Chemistry, Semmelweis University, Hőgyes Endre Utca 7., H-1092 Budapest, Hungary (L.K.)
| | - Loretta Kis
- Institute of Organic Chemistry, Semmelweis University, Hőgyes Endre Utca 7., H-1092 Budapest, Hungary (L.K.)
| | - István Mándity
- Institute of Organic Chemistry, Semmelweis University, Hőgyes Endre Utca 7., H-1092 Budapest, Hungary (L.K.)
- Artificial Transporters Research Group, Institute of Materials and Environmental Chemistry, Research Centre for Natural Sciences, Magyar Tudósok Körútja 2., H-1117 Budapest, Hungary
| |
Collapse
|
5
|
Ho TNT, Pham SH, Nguyen LTT, Nguyen HT, Nguyen LT, Dang TT. Insights into the synthesis strategies of plant-derived cyclotides. Amino Acids 2023:10.1007/s00726-023-03271-8. [PMID: 37142771 DOI: 10.1007/s00726-023-03271-8] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/24/2023] [Accepted: 04/18/2023] [Indexed: 05/06/2023]
Abstract
Cyclotides are plant peptides characterized with a head-to-tail cyclized backbone and three interlocking disulfide bonds, known as a cyclic cysteine knot. Despite the variations in cyclotides peptide sequences, this core structure is conserved, underlying their most useful feature: stability against thermal and chemical breakdown. Cyclotides are the only natural peptides known to date that are orally bioavailable and able to cross cell membranes. Cyclotides also display bioactivities that have been exploited and expanded to develop as potential therapeutic reagents for a wide range of conditions (e.g., HIV, inflammatory conditions, multiple sclerosis, etc.). As such, in vitro production of cyclotides is of the utmost importance since it could assist further research on this peptide class, specifically the structure-activity relationship and its mechanism of action. The information obtained could be utilized to assist drug development and optimization. Here, we discuss several strategies for the synthesis of cyclotides using both chemical and biological routes.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Thao N T Ho
- Institute of Applied Materials Science, Vietnam Academy of Science and Technology, 1B TL29, District 12, Ho Chi Minh City, Viet Nam
| | - Son H Pham
- Institute of Applied Materials Science, Vietnam Academy of Science and Technology, 1B TL29, District 12, Ho Chi Minh City, Viet Nam
| | - Linh T T Nguyen
- Department of Chemistry, Ho Chi Minh City University of Education, 280 An Duong Vuong Street, District 5, Ho Chi Minh City, Viet Nam
| | - Ha T Nguyen
- National Key Laboratory of Polymer and Composite Materials, Department of Energy Materials, Faculty of Materials Technology, Ho Chi Minh City University of Technology (HCMUT), 268 Ly Thuong Kiet Street, District 10, Ho Chi Minh City, Viet Nam
- Vietnam National University Ho Chi Minh City, Linh Trung Ward, Thu Duc District, Ho Chi Minh City, Viet Nam
| | - Luan T Nguyen
- National Key Laboratory of Polymer and Composite Materials, Department of Energy Materials, Faculty of Materials Technology, Ho Chi Minh City University of Technology (HCMUT), 268 Ly Thuong Kiet Street, District 10, Ho Chi Minh City, Viet Nam
- Vietnam National University Ho Chi Minh City, Linh Trung Ward, Thu Duc District, Ho Chi Minh City, Viet Nam
| | - Tien T Dang
- Institute of Applied Materials Science, Vietnam Academy of Science and Technology, 1B TL29, District 12, Ho Chi Minh City, Viet Nam.
| |
Collapse
|
6
|
Hemu X, Zhang X, Chang HY, Poh JE, Tam JP. Consensus design and engineering of an efficient and high-yield peptide asparaginyl ligase for protein cyclization and ligation. J Biol Chem 2023; 299:102997. [PMID: 36764523 PMCID: PMC10017362 DOI: 10.1016/j.jbc.2023.102997] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/24/2022] [Revised: 02/06/2023] [Accepted: 02/07/2023] [Indexed: 02/11/2023] Open
Abstract
Plant legumains are Asn/Asp-specific endopeptidases that have diverse functions in plants. Peptide asparaginyl ligases (PALs) are a special legumain subtype that primarily catalyze peptide bond formation rather than hydrolysis. PALs are versatile protein engineering tools but are rarely found in nature. To overcome this limitation, here we describe a two-step method to design and engineer a high-yield and efficient recombinant PAL based on commonly found asparaginyl endopeptidases. We first constructed a consensus sequence derived from 1500 plant legumains to design the evolutionarily stable legumain conLEG that could be produced in E. coli with 20-fold higher yield relative to that for natural legumains. We then applied the ligase-activity determinant hypothesis to exploit conserved residues in PAL substrate-binding pockets and convert conLEG into conPAL1-3. Functional studies showed that conLEG is primarily a hydrolase, whereas conPALs are ligases. Importantly, conPAL3 is a superefficient and broadly active PAL for protein cyclization and ligation.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Xinya Hemu
- School of Biological Sciences, Nanyang Technological University, Singapore, Singapore; School of Traditional Chinese Pharmacy, China Pharmaceutical University, Nanjing, China
| | - Xiaohong Zhang
- School of Biological Sciences, Nanyang Technological University, Singapore, Singapore
| | - Hong Yi Chang
- School of Biological Sciences, Nanyang Technological University, Singapore, Singapore; Department of Pharmacy, Singapore General Hospital, Singapore, Singapore
| | - Jin En Poh
- School of Biological Sciences, Nanyang Technological University, Singapore, Singapore
| | - James P Tam
- School of Biological Sciences, Nanyang Technological University, Singapore, Singapore.
| |
Collapse
|
7
|
Tian S, Durek T, Wang CK, Zdenek CN, Fry BG, Craik DJ, de Veer SJ. Engineering the Cyclization Loop of MCoTI-II Generates Targeted Cyclotides that Potently Inhibit Factor XIIa. J Med Chem 2022; 65:15698-15709. [PMID: 36383928 DOI: 10.1021/acs.jmedchem.2c01080] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/17/2022]
Abstract
Factor XIIa (FXIIa) is a promising target for developing new drugs that prevent thrombosis without causing bleeding complications. A native cyclotide (MCoTI-II) is gaining interest for engineering FXIIa-targeted anticoagulants as this peptide inhibits FXIIa but not other coagulation proteases. Here, we engineered the native biosynthetic cyclization loop of MCoTI-II (loop 6) to generate improved FXIIa inhibitors. Decreasing the loop length led to gains in potency up to 7.7-fold, with the most potent variant having five residues in loop 6 (Ki = 25 nM). We subsequently examined sequence changes within loop 6 and an adjacent loop, with substitutions at P4 and P2' producing a potent FXIIa inhibitor (Ki = 2 nM) that displayed more than 700-fold selectivity, was stable in human serum, and blocked the intrinsic coagulation pathway in human plasma. These findings demonstrate that engineering the biosynthetic cyclization loop can generate improved cyclotide variants, expanding their potential for drug discovery.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Sixin Tian
- Institute for Molecular Bioscience, Australian Research Council Centre of Excellence for Innovations in Peptide and Protein Science, The University of Queensland, Brisbane, Queensland 4072, Australia
| | - Thomas Durek
- Institute for Molecular Bioscience, Australian Research Council Centre of Excellence for Innovations in Peptide and Protein Science, The University of Queensland, Brisbane, Queensland 4072, Australia
| | - Conan K Wang
- Institute for Molecular Bioscience, Australian Research Council Centre of Excellence for Innovations in Peptide and Protein Science, The University of Queensland, Brisbane, Queensland 4072, Australia
| | - Christina N Zdenek
- Venom Evolution Lab, School of Biomedical Sciences, The University of Queensland, Brisbane, Queensland 4072, Australia
| | - Bryan G Fry
- Venom Evolution Lab, School of Biomedical Sciences, The University of Queensland, Brisbane, Queensland 4072, Australia
| | - David J Craik
- Institute for Molecular Bioscience, Australian Research Council Centre of Excellence for Innovations in Peptide and Protein Science, The University of Queensland, Brisbane, Queensland 4072, Australia
| | - Simon J de Veer
- Institute for Molecular Bioscience, Australian Research Council Centre of Excellence for Innovations in Peptide and Protein Science, The University of Queensland, Brisbane, Queensland 4072, Australia
| |
Collapse
|
8
|
Mehta L, Shambhawi, Kumar S, Mohanty A. In silico Analysis of Native Cyclotides with Antibacterial Activity against Gram-negative Bacteria. APPL BIOCHEM MICRO+ 2022. [DOI: 10.1134/s0003683822060096] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/05/2022]
|
9
|
Jacob B, Vogelaar A, Cadenas E, Camarero JA. Using the Cyclotide Scaffold for Targeting Biomolecular Interactions in Drug Development. Molecules 2022; 27:molecules27196430. [PMID: 36234971 PMCID: PMC9570680 DOI: 10.3390/molecules27196430] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/18/2022] [Revised: 09/21/2022] [Accepted: 09/24/2022] [Indexed: 11/28/2022] Open
Abstract
This review provides an overview of the properties of cyclotides and their potential for developing novel peptide-based therapeutics. The selective disruption of protein–protein interactions remains challenging, as the interacting surfaces are relatively large and flat. However, highly constrained polypeptide-based molecular frameworks with cell-permeability properties, such as the cyclotide scaffold, have shown great promise for targeting those biomolecular interactions. The use of molecular techniques, such as epitope grafting and molecular evolution employing the cyclotide scaffold, has shown to be highly effective for selecting bioactive cyclotides.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Binu Jacob
- Department of Pharmacology and Pharmaceutical Sciences, University of Southern California, Los Angeles, CA 9033, USA
| | - Alicia Vogelaar
- Department of Pharmacology and Pharmaceutical Sciences, University of Southern California, Los Angeles, CA 9033, USA
| | - Enrique Cadenas
- Department of Pharmacology and Pharmaceutical Sciences, University of Southern California, Los Angeles, CA 9033, USA
| | - Julio A. Camarero
- Department of Pharmacology and Pharmaceutical Sciences, University of Southern California, Los Angeles, CA 9033, USA
- Norris Comprehensive Cancer Center, University of Southern California, Los Angeles, CA 9033, USA
- Correspondence:
| |
Collapse
|
10
|
Liew HT, To J, Zhang X, Hemu X, Chan NY, Serra A, Sze SK, Liu CF, Tam JP. The legumain McPAL1 from Momordica cochinchinensis is a highly stable Asx-specific splicing enzyme. J Biol Chem 2021; 297:101325. [PMID: 34710371 PMCID: PMC8600085 DOI: 10.1016/j.jbc.2021.101325] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/07/2021] [Revised: 10/09/2021] [Accepted: 10/11/2021] [Indexed: 11/29/2022] Open
Abstract
Legumains, also known as asparaginyl endopeptidases (AEPs), cleave peptide bonds after Asn/Asp (Asx) residues. In plants, certain legumains also have ligase activity that catalyzes biosynthesis of Asx-containing cyclic peptides. An example is the biosynthesis of MCoTI-I/II, a squash family-derived cyclic trypsin inhibitor, which involves splicing to remove the N-terminal prodomain and then N-to-C-terminal cyclization of the mature domain. To identify plant legumains responsible for the maturation of these cyclic peptides, we have isolated and characterized a legumain involved in splicing, McPAL1, from Momordica cochinchinensis (Cucurbitaceae) seeds. Functional studies show that recombinantly expressed McPAL1 displays a pH-dependent, trimodal enzymatic profile. At pH 4 to 6, McPAL1 selectively catalyzed Asp-ligation and Asn-cleavage, but at pH 6.5 to 8, Asn-ligation predominated. With peptide substrates containing N-terminal Asn and C-terminal Asp, such as is found in precursors of MCoTI-I/II, McPAL1 mediates proteolysis at the Asn site and then ligation at the Asp site at pH 5 to 6. Also, McPAL1 is an unusually stable legumain that is tolerant of heat and high pH. Together, our results support that McPAL1 is a splicing legumain at acidic pH that can mediate biosynthesis of MCoTI-I/II. We purport that the high thermal and pH stability of McPAL1 could have applications for protein engineering.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Heng Tai Liew
- School of Biological Sciences, Nanyang Technological University, Singapore, Singapore
| | - Janet To
- School of Biological Sciences, Nanyang Technological University, Singapore, Singapore
| | - Xiaohong Zhang
- School of Biological Sciences, Nanyang Technological University, Singapore, Singapore
| | - Xinya Hemu
- School of Biological Sciences, Nanyang Technological University, Singapore, Singapore
| | - Ning-Yu Chan
- School of Biological Sciences, Nanyang Technological University, Singapore, Singapore
| | - Aida Serra
- IMDEA Food Research Institute, +Pec Proteomics, Campus of International Excellence UAM+CSIC, Old Cantoblanco Hospital, Cantoblanco, Madrid, Spain; Proteored - Instituto de Salud Carlos III (ISCIII), Campus UAM, Cantoblanco, Madrid, Spain
| | - Siu Kwan Sze
- School of Biological Sciences, Nanyang Technological University, Singapore, Singapore
| | - Chuan-Fa Liu
- School of Biological Sciences, Nanyang Technological University, Singapore, Singapore
| | - James P Tam
- School of Biological Sciences, Nanyang Technological University, Singapore, Singapore.
| |
Collapse
|
11
|
Abstract
Introduction: Blood coagulation factor XII (FXII) is an emerging and potentially safe drug target, which dysregulation is associated with thrombosis, hereditary angioedema, and (neuro)inflammation. At the same time, FXII-deficiency is practically asymptomatic. Industrial and academic institutions have developed a number of potential therapeutic agents targeting either FXII zymogen or its active form FXIIa for the treatment of thrombotic and inflammatory conditions associated with the activity of this enzyme.Areas covered: A short overview of the FXII(a) structure and function, underlining its suitability as a drug target, is given. The article reviews patents reported over the last three decades on FXII(a)-targeting therapeutic agents. These agents include small molecules, proteins, peptides, oligonucleotides, siRNAs, and monoclonal antibodies.Expert opinion: The performed analysis of patents revealed that many FXII(a) inhibitors are in the early preclinical stage, while several already showed efficacy in vivo animal models of thrombosis, sepsis, hereditary angioedema, and multiple sclerosis. Two anti-FXIIa agents namely tick protein Ir-CPI and monoclonal antibody CSL312 are currently in human clinical trials. The results of these trials and further studies of FXII(a) pathophysiological functions will encourage the development of new FXII(a) inhibitors.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Dmitrii V Kalinin
- Institute of Pharmaceutical and Medicinal Chemistry, University of Münster, Münster, Germany
| |
Collapse
|
12
|
Kalmankar NV, Balaram P, Venkatesan R. Mass Spectrometric Analysis of Cyclotides from Clitoria ternatea: Xxx-Pro Bond Fragmentation as Convenient Diagnostic of Pro Residue Positioning. Chem Asian J 2021; 16:2920-2931. [PMID: 34288513 DOI: 10.1002/asia.202100585] [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: 05/31/2021] [Revised: 07/14/2021] [Indexed: 11/06/2022]
Abstract
Cyclotides, a class of macrocyclic plant peptides, characterized by a cyclic backbone and three inter-locking disulfide bonds, may be divided into two major structural subfamilies, Möbius and Bracelet, based on the presence or absence of a specific proline residue. The present study describes the suite of cyclotides obtained from Clitoria ternatea, characterized by LC-MS and MS/MS techniques. Notable variations in product ion distributions were observed in cyclotides belonging to different structural subfamilies based on the number and positions of proline residues. For instance, Cter M which is an abundant Möbius cyclotide in this plant containing three proline residues, displayed distinct b- and y- ion characteristics in the MS/MS spectra compared to Cliotide T1, another commonly identified cyclotide but belonging to the Bracelet subfamily having two proline residues. The distinct fragmentation pattern of prototypical cyclotides of each structural subfamily, determined by Xxx-Pro bond fragmentation, was used to rapidly identify and sequence a novel cyclotide ctr pep 30 from this plant.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Neha V Kalmankar
- National Centre for Biological Sciences (NCBS), Tata Institute for Fundamental Research (TIFR), GKVK Campus, Bangalore, Karnataka, 560065, India.,The University of Trans-Disciplinary Health Sciences and Technology (TDU), 74/2, Jarakabande Kaval, Post Attur, Via Yelahanka, Bangalore, Karnataka, 560064, India
| | - Padmanabhan Balaram
- National Centre for Biological Sciences (NCBS), Tata Institute for Fundamental Research (TIFR), GKVK Campus, Bangalore, Karnataka, 560065, India.,Molecular Biophysics Unit, Indian Institute of Science, Bangalore, Karnataka, 560012, India
| | - Radhika Venkatesan
- National Centre for Biological Sciences (NCBS), Tata Institute for Fundamental Research (TIFR), GKVK Campus, Bangalore, Karnataka, 560065, India.,Department of Biological Sciences, Indian Institute of Science, Education and Research (IISER) Kolkata, Mohanpur, West Bengal, 741246, India
| |
Collapse
|
13
|
Comparison of a Short Linear Antimicrobial Peptide with Its Disulfide-Cyclized and Cyclotide-Grafted Variants against Clinically Relevant Pathogens. Microorganisms 2021; 9:microorganisms9061249. [PMID: 34201398 PMCID: PMC8228819 DOI: 10.3390/microorganisms9061249] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/28/2021] [Accepted: 06/04/2021] [Indexed: 12/14/2022] Open
Abstract
According to the World Health Organization (WHO) the development of resistance against antibiotics by microbes is one of the most pressing health concerns. The situation will intensify since only a few pharmacological companies are currently developing novel antimicrobial compounds. Discovery and development of novel antimicrobial compounds with new modes of action are urgently needed. Antimicrobial peptides (AMPs) are known to be able to kill multidrug-resistant bacteria and, therefore, of interest to be developed into antimicrobial drugs. Proteolytic stability and toxicities of these peptides are challenges to overcome, and one strategy frequently used to address stability is cyclization. Here we introduced a disulfide-bond to cyclize a potent and nontoxic 9mer peptide and, in addition, as a proof-of-concept study, grafted this peptide into loop 6 of the cyclotide MCoTI-II. This is the first time an antimicrobial peptide has been successfully grafted onto the cyclotide scaffold. The disulfide-cyclized and grafted cyclotide showed moderate activity in broth and strong activity in 1/5 broth against clinically relevant resistant pathogens. The linear peptide showed superior activity in both conditions. The half-life time in 100% human serum was determined, for the linear peptide, to be 13 min, for the simple disulfide-cyclized peptide, 9 min, and, for the grafted cyclotide 7 h 15 min. The addition of 10% human serum led to a loss of antimicrobial activity for the different organisms, ranging from 1 to >8-fold for the cyclotide. For the disulfide-cyclized version and the linear version, activity also dropped to different degrees, 2 to 18-fold, and 1 to 30-fold respectively. Despite the massive difference in stability, the linear peptide still showed superior antimicrobial activity. The cyclotide and the disulfide-cyclized version demonstrated a slower bactericidal effect than the linear version. All three peptides were stable at high and low pH, and had very low hemolytic and cytotoxic activity.
Collapse
|
14
|
Parthasarathy A, Borrego EJ, Savka MA, Dobson RCJ, Hudson AO. Amino acid-derived defense metabolites from plants: A potential source to facilitate novel antimicrobial development. J Biol Chem 2021; 296:100438. [PMID: 33610552 PMCID: PMC8024917 DOI: 10.1016/j.jbc.2021.100438] [Citation(s) in RCA: 19] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/15/2020] [Revised: 02/16/2021] [Accepted: 02/17/2021] [Indexed: 12/23/2022] Open
Abstract
For millennia, humanity has relied on plants for its medicines, and modern pharmacology continues to reexamine and mine plant metabolites for novel compounds and to guide improvements in biological activity, bioavailability, and chemical stability. The critical problem of antibiotic resistance and increasing exposure to viral and parasitic diseases has spurred renewed interest into drug treatments for infectious diseases. In this context, an urgent revival of natural product discovery is globally underway with special attention directed toward the numerous and chemically diverse plant defensive compounds such as phytoalexins and phytoanticipins that combat herbivores, microbial pathogens, or competing plants. Moreover, advancements in “omics,” chemistry, and heterologous expression systems have facilitated the purification and characterization of plant metabolites and the identification of possible therapeutic targets. In this review, we describe several important amino acid–derived classes of plant defensive compounds, including antimicrobial peptides (e.g., defensins, thionins, and knottins), alkaloids, nonproteogenic amino acids, and phenylpropanoids as potential drug leads, examining their mechanisms of action, therapeutic targets, and structure–function relationships. Given their potent antibacterial, antifungal, antiparasitic, and antiviral properties, which can be superior to existing drugs, phytoalexins and phytoanticipins are an excellent resource to facilitate the rational design and development of antimicrobial drugs.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Anutthaman Parthasarathy
- Rochester Institute of Technology, Thomas H. Gosnell School of Life Sciences, Rochester, New York, USA
| | - Eli J Borrego
- Rochester Institute of Technology, Thomas H. Gosnell School of Life Sciences, Rochester, New York, USA
| | - Michael A Savka
- Rochester Institute of Technology, Thomas H. Gosnell School of Life Sciences, Rochester, New York, USA
| | - Renwick C J Dobson
- Biomolecular Interaction Centre and School of Biological Sciences, University of Canterbury, Christchurch, New Zealand; Bio21 Molecular Science and Biotechnology Institute, Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, University of Melbourne, Parkville, Victoria, Australia
| | - André O Hudson
- Rochester Institute of Technology, Thomas H. Gosnell School of Life Sciences, Rochester, New York, USA.
| |
Collapse
|
15
|
Zhang J, Yuan J, Li Z, Fu C, Xu M, Yang J, Jiang X, Zhou B, Ye X, Xu C. Exploring and exploiting plant cyclic peptides for drug discovery and development. Med Res Rev 2021; 41:3096-3117. [PMID: 33599316 DOI: 10.1002/med.21792] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/10/2020] [Revised: 01/10/2021] [Accepted: 01/31/2021] [Indexed: 01/07/2023]
Abstract
Ever since the discovery of insulin, natural peptides have become an important resource for therapeutic development. Decades of research has led to the discovery of a long list of peptide drugs with broad applications in clinics, from antibiotics to hypertension treatment to pain management. Many of these US FDA-approved peptide drugs are derived from microorganisms and animals. By contrast, the great potential of plant cyclic peptides as therapeutics remains largely unexplored. These macrocyclic peptides typically have rigid structures, good bioavailability and membrane permeability, making them appealing candidates for drug development and engineering. In this review, we introduce the three major classes of plant cyclic peptides and summarize their potential medical applications. We discuss how we can leverage the genome information of many different plants to quickly search for new cyclic peptides and how we can take advantage of the insights gained from their biosynthetic pathways to transform the process of production and drug development. These recent developments have provided a new angle for exploring and exploiting plant cyclic peptides, and we believe that many more peptide drugs derived from plants are about to come.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Jingjing Zhang
- Department of Geriatric Medicine, Shenzhen People's Hospital (The Second Clinical Medical College, Jinan University; The First Affiliated Hospital, Southern University of Science and Technology), Shenzhen, Guangdong, China.,Integrated Chinese and Western Medicine Postdoctoral Research Station, Jinan University, Guangzhou, Guangdong, China
| | - Jimin Yuan
- Department of Geriatric Medicine, Shenzhen People's Hospital (The Second Clinical Medical College, Jinan University; The First Affiliated Hospital, Southern University of Science and Technology), Shenzhen, Guangdong, China
| | - Zhijie Li
- Department of Geriatric Medicine, Shenzhen People's Hospital (The Second Clinical Medical College, Jinan University; The First Affiliated Hospital, Southern University of Science and Technology), Shenzhen, Guangdong, China
| | - Chunjin Fu
- Department of Geriatric Medicine, Shenzhen People's Hospital (The Second Clinical Medical College, Jinan University; The First Affiliated Hospital, Southern University of Science and Technology), Shenzhen, Guangdong, China
| | - Menglong Xu
- Whitehead Institute for Biomedical Research, Cambridge, Massachusetts, USA
| | - Jing Yang
- Department of Geriatric Medicine, Shenzhen People's Hospital (The Second Clinical Medical College, Jinan University; The First Affiliated Hospital, Southern University of Science and Technology), Shenzhen, Guangdong, China
| | - Xin Jiang
- Department of Geriatric Medicine, Shenzhen People's Hospital (The Second Clinical Medical College, Jinan University; The First Affiliated Hospital, Southern University of Science and Technology), Shenzhen, Guangdong, China
| | - Boping Zhou
- Department of Infectious Diseases, Shenzhen People's Hospital (The Second Clinical Medical College, Jinan University; The First Affiliated Hospital, Southern University of Science and Technology), Shenzhen, Guangdong, China
| | - Xiufeng Ye
- Shenzhen People's Hospital (The Second Clinical Medical College, Jinan University; The First Affiliated Hospital, Southern University of Science and Technology), Shenzhen, Guangdong, China
| | - Chengchao Xu
- Department of Geriatric Medicine, Shenzhen People's Hospital (The Second Clinical Medical College, Jinan University; The First Affiliated Hospital, Southern University of Science and Technology), Shenzhen, Guangdong, China.,Whitehead Institute for Biomedical Research, Cambridge, Massachusetts, USA
| |
Collapse
|
16
|
Grover T, Mishra R, Gulati P, Mohanty A. An insight into biological activities of native cyclotides for potential applications in agriculture and pharmaceutics. Peptides 2021; 135:170430. [PMID: 33096195 DOI: 10.1016/j.peptides.2020.170430] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/21/2020] [Revised: 10/06/2020] [Accepted: 10/12/2020] [Indexed: 02/08/2023]
Abstract
Cyclotides are plant-derived mini-proteins of 28 - 37 amino acids. They have a characteristic head-to-tail cyclic backbone and three disulfide cross-linkages formed by six highly conserved cysteine residues, creating a unique knotted ring structure, known as a cyclic cystine knot (CCK) motif. The CCK topology confers immense stability to cyclotides with resistance to thermal and enzymatic degradation. Native cyclotides are of interest due to their multiple biological activities with several potential applications in agricultural (e.g. biopesticides, antifungal) and pharmaceutical (e.g. anti-HIV, cytotoxic to tumor cells) sectors. The most recent application of insecticidal activity of cyclotides is the commercially available biopesticidal spray known as 'Sero X' for cotton crops. Cyclotides have a general mode of action and their potency of bioactivity is determined through their binding ability, pore formation and disruption of the target biological membranes. Keeping in view the important potential applications of biological activities of cyclotides and the lack of an extensive and analytical compilation of bioactive cyclotides, the present review systematically describes eight major biological activities of the native cyclotides from four angiosperm families viz. Fabaceae, Poaceae, Rubiaceae, Violaceae. The bioactivities of 94 cytotoxic, 57 antibacterial, 44 hemolytic, 25 antifungal, 21 anti-HIV, 20 nematocidal, 10 insecticidal and 5 molluscicidal cyclotides have been comprehensively elaborated. Further, their distribution in angiosperm families, mode of action and future prospects have also been discussed.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Tripti Grover
- Bioinformatics Infrastructure Facility, Gargi College, University of Delhi, India
| | - Reema Mishra
- Department of Botany, Gargi College, University of Delhi, India
| | - Pooja Gulati
- Department of Microbiology, Maharshi Dayanand University, Rohtak, Haryana, India
| | - Aparajita Mohanty
- Bioinformatics Infrastructure Facility, Gargi College, University of Delhi, India.
| |
Collapse
|
17
|
Urquiza M, Guevara V, Diaz-Sana E, Mora F. The Role of αvβ6 Integrin Binding Molecules in the Diagnosis and Treatment of Cancer. CURR ORG CHEM 2020. [DOI: 10.2174/1385272824999200528124936] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/15/2022]
Abstract
Peptidic and non-peptidic αvβ6 integrin-binding molecules have been used in
the clinic for detection and treatment of tumors expressing αvβ6 integrin, because this protein
is expressed in malignant epithelial cells of the oral cavity, pancreas, breast, ovary,
colon and stomach carcinomas but it is not expressed in healthy adult tissue except during
wound healing and inflammation. This review focuses on the landscape of αvβ6 integrinbinding
molecules and their use in cancer treatment and detection, and discusses recent
designs for tumor detection, treatment, and immunotherapy. In the last ten years, several
reviews abamp;#945;vβ6 integrin-binding molecules and their role in cancer detection and treatment.
Firstly, this review describes the role of the αvβ6 integrin in normal tissues, how the expression
of this protein is correlated with cancer severity and its role in cancer development. Taking into account
the potential of αvβ6 integrin-binding molecules in detection and treatment of specific tumors, special
attention is given to several high-affinity αvβ6 integrin-binding peptides used for tumor imaging; particularly,
the αvβ6-binding peptide NAVPNLRGDLQVLAQKVART [A20FMDV2], derived from the foot and mouth
disease virus. This peptide labeled with either 18F, 111In or with 68Ga has been used for PET imaging of αvβ6
integrin-positive tumors. Moreover, αvβ6 integrin-binding peptides have been used for photoacoustic and fluorescence
imaging and could potentially be used in clinical application in cancer diagnosis and intraoperative
imaging of αvβ6-integrin positive tumors. Additionally, non-peptidic αvβ6-binding molecules have been designed
and used in the clinic for the detection and treatment of αvβ6-expressing tumors. Anti-αvβ6 integrin antibodies
are another useful tool for selective identification and treatment of αvβ6 (+) tumors. The utility of
these αvβ6 integrin-binding molecules as a tool for tumor detection and treatment is discussed, considering
specificity, sensitivity and serum stability. Another use of the αvβ6 integrin-binding peptides is to modify the
Ad5 cell tropism for inducing oncolytic activity of αvβ6-integrin positive tumor cells by expressing
A20FMDV2 peptide within the fiber knob protein (Ad5NULL-A20). The newly designed oncolytic
Ad5NULL-A20 virotherapy is promising for local and systemic targeting of αvβ6-overexpressing cancers. Finally,
new evidence has emerged, indicating that chimeric antigen receptor (CAR) containing the αvβ6 integrin-
binding peptide on top of CD28+CD3 endodomain displays a potent therapeutic activity in a diverse
repertoire of solid tumor models.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Mauricio Urquiza
- Grupo de Investigacion en Hormonas (GIH), Department of Chemistry, National University of Columbia, Cra 30 # 45-03, Bogota, zip code 111321, Colombia
| | - Valentina Guevara
- Grupo de Investigacion en Hormonas (GIH), Department of Chemistry, National University of Columbia, Cra 30 # 45-03, Bogota, zip code 111321, Colombia
| | - Erika Diaz-Sana
- Grupo de Investigacion en Hormonas (GIH), Department of Chemistry, National University of Columbia, Cra 30 # 45-03, Bogota, zip code 111321, Colombia
| | - Felipe Mora
- Grupo de Investigacion en Hormonas (GIH), Department of Chemistry, National University of Columbia, Cra 30 # 45-03, Bogota, zip code 111321, Colombia
| |
Collapse
|
18
|
Jackson MA, Nguyen LT, Gilding EK, Durek T, Craik DJ. Make it or break it: Plant AEPs on stage in biotechnology. Biotechnol Adv 2020; 45:107651. [DOI: 10.1016/j.biotechadv.2020.107651] [Citation(s) in RCA: 13] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/13/2020] [Revised: 10/02/2020] [Accepted: 10/20/2020] [Indexed: 12/11/2022]
|
19
|
Handley TNG, Wang CK, Harvey PJ, Lawrence N, Craik DJ. Cyclotide Structures Revealed by NMR, with a Little Help from X‐ray Crystallography. Chembiochem 2020; 21:3463-3475. [DOI: 10.1002/cbic.202000315] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/15/2020] [Revised: 07/08/2020] [Indexed: 12/12/2022]
Affiliation(s)
- Thomas N. G. Handley
- Institute for Molecular Bioscience Australian Research Council Centre of Excellence for Innovations in Peptide and Protein Science The University of Queensland Brisbane Queensland 4072 Australia
| | - Conan K. Wang
- Institute for Molecular Bioscience Australian Research Council Centre of Excellence for Innovations in Peptide and Protein Science The University of Queensland Brisbane Queensland 4072 Australia
| | - Peta J. Harvey
- Institute for Molecular Bioscience Australian Research Council Centre of Excellence for Innovations in Peptide and Protein Science The University of Queensland Brisbane Queensland 4072 Australia
| | - Nicole Lawrence
- Institute for Molecular Bioscience Australian Research Council Centre of Excellence for Innovations in Peptide and Protein Science The University of Queensland Brisbane Queensland 4072 Australia
| | - David J. Craik
- Institute for Molecular Bioscience Australian Research Council Centre of Excellence for Innovations in Peptide and Protein Science The University of Queensland Brisbane Queensland 4072 Australia
| |
Collapse
|
20
|
Muratspahić E, Koehbach J, Gruber CW, Craik DJ. Harnessing cyclotides to design and develop novel peptide GPCR ligands. RSC Chem Biol 2020; 1:177-191. [PMID: 34458757 PMCID: PMC8341132 DOI: 10.1039/d0cb00062k] [Citation(s) in RCA: 12] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/08/2020] [Accepted: 07/10/2020] [Indexed: 12/13/2022] Open
Abstract
Cyclotides are plant-derived cyclic, disulfide-rich peptides with a unique cyclic cystine knot topology that confers them with remarkable structural stability and resistance to proteolytic degradation. Recently, cyclotides have emerged as promising scaffold molecules for designing peptide-based therapeutics. Here, we provide examples of how engineering cyclotides using molecular grafting may lead to the development of novel peptide ligands of G protein-coupled receptors (GPCRs), today's most exploited drug targets. Integrating bioactive epitopes into stable cyclotide scaffolds can lead to improved pharmacokinetics and oral activity as well as selectivity and high enzymatic stability. We also discuss and highlight the importance of engineered cyclotides as novel tools to study GPCR signaling.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Edin Muratspahić
- Center for Physiology and Pharmacology, Institute of Pharmacology, Medical University of Vienna Austria
- Institute for Molecular Bioscience, Australian Research Council Centre of Excellence for Innovations in Peptide and Protein Science, The University of Queensland Brisbane Queensland 4072 Australia
| | - Johannes Koehbach
- Institute for Molecular Bioscience, Australian Research Council Centre of Excellence for Innovations in Peptide and Protein Science, The University of Queensland Brisbane Queensland 4072 Australia
| | - Christian W Gruber
- Center for Physiology and Pharmacology, Institute of Pharmacology, Medical University of Vienna Austria
| | - David J Craik
- Institute for Molecular Bioscience, Australian Research Council Centre of Excellence for Innovations in Peptide and Protein Science, The University of Queensland Brisbane Queensland 4072 Australia
| |
Collapse
|
21
|
Srivastava S, Dashora K, Ameta KL, Singh NP, El-Enshasy HA, Pagano MC, Hesham AEL, Sharma GD, Sharma M, Bhargava A. Cysteine-rich antimicrobial peptides from plants: The future of antimicrobial therapy. Phytother Res 2020; 35:256-277. [PMID: 32940412 DOI: 10.1002/ptr.6823] [Citation(s) in RCA: 39] [Impact Index Per Article: 9.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/05/2020] [Revised: 05/26/2020] [Accepted: 07/03/2020] [Indexed: 12/13/2022]
Abstract
There has been a spurt in the spread of microbial resistance to antibiotics due to indiscriminate use of antimicrobial agents in human medicine, agriculture, and animal husbandry. It has been realized that conventional antibiotic therapy would be less effective in the coming decades and more emphasis should be given for the development of novel antiinfective therapies. Cysteine rich peptides (CRPs) are broad-spectrum antimicrobial agents that modulate the innate immune system of different life forms such as bacteria, protozoans, fungi, plants, insects, and animals. These are also expressed in several plant tissues in response to invasion by pathogens, and play a crucial role in the regulation of plant growth and development. The present work explores the importance of CRPs as potent antimicrobial agents, which can supplement and/or replace the conventional antibiotics. Different plant parts of diverse plant species showed the presence of antimicrobial peptides (AMPs), which had significant structural and functional diversity. The plant-derived AMPs exhibited potent activity toward a range of plant and animal pathogens, protozoans, insects, and even against cancer cells. The cysteine-rich AMPs have opened new avenues for the use of plants as biofactories for the production of antimicrobials and can be considered as promising antimicrobial drugs in biotherapeutics.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Shilpi Srivastava
- Amity Institute of Biotechnology, Amity University Uttar Pradesh, Lucknow Campus, Lucknow, India
| | - Kavya Dashora
- Centre for Rural Development and Technology, Indian Institute of Technology Delhi, New Delhi, India
| | - Keshav Lalit Ameta
- Department of Chemistry, School of Liberal Arts and Sciences, Mody University of Science and Technology, Lakshmangarh, Rajasthan, India
| | | | - Hesham Ali El-Enshasy
- Institute of Bioproduct Development (IBD), School of Chemical and Energy Engineering, Universiti Teknologi Malaysia (UTM), Skudai, Johor Bahru, Malaysia.,City of Scientific Research and Technology Applications (SRTA), New Burg Al Arab, Alexandria, Egypt
| | | | - Abd El-Latif Hesham
- Genetics Department, Faculty of Agriculture, Beni-Suef University, Beni-Suef, Egypt
| | | | - Minaxi Sharma
- Department of Food Technology, Akal College of Agriculture, Eternal University, Baru Sahib, India
| | - Atul Bhargava
- Department of Botany, Mahatma Gandhi Central University, Motihari, India
| |
Collapse
|
22
|
Shahin-Kaleybar B, Niazi A, Afsharifar A, Nematzadeh G, Yousefi R, Retzl B, Hellinger R, Muratspahić E, Gruber CW. Isolation of Cysteine-Rich Peptides from Citrullus colocynthis. Biomolecules 2020; 10:E1326. [PMID: 32948080 PMCID: PMC7565491 DOI: 10.3390/biom10091326] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/15/2020] [Revised: 09/08/2020] [Accepted: 09/11/2020] [Indexed: 12/16/2022] Open
Abstract
The plant Citrullus colocynthis, a member of the squash (Cucurbitaceae) family, has a long history in traditional medicine. Based on the ancient knowledge about the healing properties of herbal preparations, plant-derived small molecules, e.g., salicylic acid, or quinine, have been integral to modern drug discovery. Additionally, many plant families, such as Cucurbitaceae, are known as a rich source for cysteine-rich peptides, which are gaining importance as valuable pharmaceuticals. In this study, we characterized the C. colocynthis peptidome using chemical modification of cysteine residues, and mass shift analysis via matrix-assisted laser desorption ionization time-of-flight (MALDI-TOF) mass spectrometry. We identified the presence of at least 23 cysteine-rich peptides in this plant, and eight novel peptides, named citcol-1 to -8, with a molecular weight between ~3650 and 4160 Da, were purified using reversed-phase high performance liquid chromatography (HPLC), and their amino acid sequences were determined by de novo assignment of b- and y-ion series of proteolytic peptide fragments. In silico analysis of citcol peptides revealed a high sequence similarity to trypsin inhibitor peptides from Cucumis sativus, Momordica cochinchinensis, Momordica macrophylla and Momordica sphaeroidea. Using genome/transcriptome mining it was possible to identify precursor sequences of this peptide family in related Cucurbitaceae species that cluster into trypsin inhibitor and antimicrobial peptides. Based on our analysis, the presence or absence of a crucial Arg/Lys residue at the putative P1 position may be used to classify these common cysteine-rich peptides by functional properties. Despite sequence homology and the common classification into the inhibitor cysteine knot family, these peptides appear to have diverse and additional bioactivities yet to be revealed.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Behzad Shahin-Kaleybar
- Center for Physiology and Pharmacology, Medical University of Vienna, 1090 Vienna, Austria; (B.S.-K.); (B.R.); (R.H.); (E.M.)
- Department of Plant Biotechnology, Shiraz University, Shiraz 7144165186, Iran;
| | - Ali Niazi
- Department of Plant Biotechnology, Shiraz University, Shiraz 7144165186, Iran;
| | - Alireza Afsharifar
- Department of Plant Protection, Shiraz University, Shiraz 7144165186, Iran;
| | | | - Reza Yousefi
- Department of Biology, Shiraz University, Shiraz 7194684795, Iran;
| | - Bernhard Retzl
- Center for Physiology and Pharmacology, Medical University of Vienna, 1090 Vienna, Austria; (B.S.-K.); (B.R.); (R.H.); (E.M.)
| | - Roland Hellinger
- Center for Physiology and Pharmacology, Medical University of Vienna, 1090 Vienna, Austria; (B.S.-K.); (B.R.); (R.H.); (E.M.)
| | - Edin Muratspahić
- Center for Physiology and Pharmacology, Medical University of Vienna, 1090 Vienna, Austria; (B.S.-K.); (B.R.); (R.H.); (E.M.)
| | - Christian W. Gruber
- Center for Physiology and Pharmacology, Medical University of Vienna, 1090 Vienna, Austria; (B.S.-K.); (B.R.); (R.H.); (E.M.)
| |
Collapse
|
23
|
Du Q, Chan LY, Gilding EK, Henriques ST, Condon ND, Ravipati AS, Kaas Q, Huang YH, Craik DJ. Discovery and mechanistic studies of cytotoxic cyclotides from the medicinal herb Hybanthus enneaspermus. J Biol Chem 2020; 295:10911-10925. [PMID: 32414842 DOI: 10.1074/jbc.ra120.012627] [Citation(s) in RCA: 18] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/22/2020] [Revised: 05/08/2020] [Indexed: 12/12/2022] Open
Abstract
Cyclotides are plant-derived peptides characterized by an ∼30-amino acid-long cyclic backbone and a cystine knot motif. Cyclotides have diverse bioactivities, and their cytotoxicity has attracted significant attention for its potential anticancer applications. Hybanthus enneaspermus (Linn) F. Muell is a medicinal herb widely used in India as a libido enhancer, and a previous study has reported that it may contain cyclotides. In the current study, we isolated 11 novel cyclotides and 1 known cyclotide (cycloviolacin O2) from H. enneaspermus and used tandem MS to determine their amino acid sequences. We found that among these cyclotides, hyen C comprises a unique sequence in loops 1, 2, 3, 4, and 6 compared with known cyclotides. The most abundant cyclotide in this plant, hyen D, had anticancer activity comparable to that of cycloviolacin O2, one of the most cytotoxic known cyclotides. We also provide mechanistic insights into how these novel cyclotides interact with and permeabilize cell membranes. Results from surface plasmon resonance experiments revealed that hyen D, E, L, and M and cycloviolacin O2 preferentially interact with model lipid membranes that contain phospholipids with phosphatidyl-ethanolamine headgroups. The results of a lactate dehydrogenase assay indicated that exposure to these cyclotides compromises cell membrane integrity. Using live-cell imaging, we show that hyen D induces rapid membrane blebbing and cell necrosis. Cyclotide-membrane interactions correlated with the observed cytotoxicity, suggesting that membrane permeabilization and disintegration underpin cyclotide cytotoxicity. These findings broaden our knowledge on the indigenous Indian herb H. enneaspermus and have uncovered cyclotides with potential anticancer activity.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Qingdan Du
- Institute for Molecular Bioscience, The University of Queensland, Brisbane, Australia
| | - Lai Y Chan
- Institute for Molecular Bioscience, The University of Queensland, Brisbane, Australia
| | - Edward K Gilding
- Institute for Molecular Bioscience, The University of Queensland, Brisbane, Australia
| | - Sónia Troeira Henriques
- Institute for Molecular Bioscience, The University of Queensland, Brisbane, Australia.,School of Biomedical Sciences, Institute of Health & Biomedical Innovation and Translational Research Institute, Queensland University of Technology, Brisbane, Queensland, Australia
| | - Nicholas D Condon
- Institute for Molecular Bioscience, The University of Queensland, Brisbane, Australia
| | - Anjaneya S Ravipati
- Institute for Molecular Bioscience, The University of Queensland, Brisbane, Australia
| | - Quentin Kaas
- Institute for Molecular Bioscience, The University of Queensland, Brisbane, Australia
| | - Yen-Hua Huang
- Institute for Molecular Bioscience, The University of Queensland, Brisbane, Australia
| | - David J Craik
- Institute for Molecular Bioscience, The University of Queensland, Brisbane, Australia
| |
Collapse
|
24
|
Du J, Yap K, Chan LY, Rehm FBH, Looi FY, Poth AG, Gilding EK, Kaas Q, Durek T, Craik DJ. A bifunctional asparaginyl endopeptidase efficiently catalyzes both cleavage and cyclization of cyclic trypsin inhibitors. Nat Commun 2020; 11:1575. [PMID: 32221295 PMCID: PMC7101308 DOI: 10.1038/s41467-020-15418-2] [Citation(s) in RCA: 48] [Impact Index Per Article: 12.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/30/2019] [Accepted: 03/06/2020] [Indexed: 01/08/2023] Open
Abstract
Asparaginyl endopeptidases (AEPs) catalyze the key backbone cyclization step during the biosynthesis of plant-derived cyclic peptides. Here, we report the identification of two AEPs from Momordica cochinchinensis and biochemically characterize MCoAEP2 that catalyzes the maturation of trypsin inhibitor cyclotides. Recombinantly produced MCoAEP2 catalyzes the backbone cyclization of a linear cyclotide precursor (MCoTI-II-NAL) with a kcat/Km of 620 mM−1 s−1, making it one of the fastest cyclases reported to date. We show that MCoAEP2 can mediate both the N-terminal excision and C-terminal cyclization of cyclotide precursors in vitro. The rate of cyclization/hydrolysis is primarily influenced by varying pH, which could potentially control the succession of AEP-mediated processing events in vivo. Furthermore, MCoAEP2 efficiently catalyzes the backbone cyclization of an engineered MCoTI-II analog with anti-angiogenic activity. MCoAEP2 provides enhanced synthetic access to structures previously inaccessible by direct chemistry approaches and enables the wider application of trypsin inhibitor cyclotides in biotechnology applications. Asparaginyl endopeptidases (AEPs) catalyze the cyclization step during the biosynthesis of cyclic peptides in plants. Here, the authors report a recombinantly produced AEP that catalyzes the backbone cyclization of a linear cyclotide precursor and an engineered analog with high efficiency and in a pH-dependent manner.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Junqiao Du
- Institute for Molecular Bioscience, The University of Queensland, Brisbane, Queensland, 4072, Australia
| | - Kuok Yap
- Institute for Molecular Bioscience, The University of Queensland, Brisbane, Queensland, 4072, Australia
| | - Lai Yue Chan
- Institute for Molecular Bioscience, The University of Queensland, Brisbane, Queensland, 4072, Australia
| | - Fabian B H Rehm
- Institute for Molecular Bioscience, The University of Queensland, Brisbane, Queensland, 4072, Australia
| | - Fong Yang Looi
- Institute for Molecular Bioscience, The University of Queensland, Brisbane, Queensland, 4072, Australia
| | - Aaron G Poth
- Institute for Molecular Bioscience, The University of Queensland, Brisbane, Queensland, 4072, Australia
| | - Edward K Gilding
- Institute for Molecular Bioscience, The University of Queensland, Brisbane, Queensland, 4072, Australia
| | - Quentin Kaas
- Institute for Molecular Bioscience, The University of Queensland, Brisbane, Queensland, 4072, Australia
| | - Thomas Durek
- Institute for Molecular Bioscience, The University of Queensland, Brisbane, Queensland, 4072, Australia.
| | - David J Craik
- Institute for Molecular Bioscience, The University of Queensland, Brisbane, Queensland, 4072, Australia.
| |
Collapse
|
25
|
Abstract
This Review explores the class of plant-derived macrocyclic peptides called cyclotides. We include an account of their discovery, characterization, and distribution in the plant kingdom as well as a detailed analysis of their sequences and structures, biosynthesis and chemical synthesis, biological functions, and applications. These macrocyclic peptides are around 30 amino acids in size and are characterized by their head-to-tail cyclic backbone and cystine knot motif, which render them to be exceptionally stable, with resistance to thermal or enzymatic degradation. Routes to their chemical synthesis have been developed over the past two decades, and this capability has facilitated a wide range of mutagenesis and structure-activity relationship studies. In turn, these studies have both led to an increased understanding of their mechanisms of action as well as facilitated a range of applications in agriculture and medicine, as ecofriendly crop protection agents, and as drug leads or scaffolds for pharmaceutical design. Our overall objective in this Review is to provide readers with a comprehensive overview of cyclotides that we hope will stimulate further work on this fascinating family of peptides.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Simon J de Veer
- Institute for Molecular Bioscience , The University of Queensland , Brisbane , Queensland 4072 , Australia
| | - Meng-Wei Kan
- Institute for Molecular Bioscience , The University of Queensland , Brisbane , Queensland 4072 , Australia
| | - David J Craik
- Institute for Molecular Bioscience , The University of Queensland , Brisbane , Queensland 4072 , Australia
| |
Collapse
|
26
|
Camarero JA, Campbell MJ. The Potential of the Cyclotide Scaffold for Drug Development. Biomedicines 2019; 7:biomedicines7020031. [PMID: 31010257 PMCID: PMC6631875 DOI: 10.3390/biomedicines7020031] [Citation(s) in RCA: 33] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/06/2019] [Revised: 04/13/2019] [Accepted: 04/15/2019] [Indexed: 12/11/2022] Open
Abstract
Cyclotides are a novel class of micro-proteins (≈30-40 residues long) with a unique topology containing a head-to-tail cyclized backbone structure further stabilized by three disulfide bonds that form a cystine knot. This unique molecular framework makes them exceptionally stable to physical, chemical, and biological degradation compared to linear peptides of similar size. The cyclotides are also highly tolerant to sequence variability, aside from the conserved residues forming the cystine knot, and are orally bioavailable and able to cross cellular membranes to modulate intracellular protein-protein interactions (PPIs), both in vitro and in vivo. These unique properties make them ideal scaffolds for many biotechnological applications, including drug discovery. This review provides an overview of the properties of cyclotides and their potential for the development of novel peptide-based therapeutics. The selective disruption of PPIs still remains a very challenging task, as the interacting surfaces are relatively large and flat. The use of the cell-permeable highly constrained polypeptide molecular frameworks, such as the cyclotide scaffold, has shown great promise, as it provides unique pharmacological properties. The use of molecular techniques, such as epitope grafting, and molecular evolution have shown to be highly effective for the selection of bioactive cyclotides. However, despite successes in employing cyclotides to target PPIs, some of the challenges to move them into the clinic still remain.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Julio A Camarero
- Department of Pharmacology and Pharmaceutical Sciences, University of Southern California, Los Angeles, CA 9033, USA.
- Norris Comprehensive Cancer Center, University of Southern California, Los Angeles, Los Angeles, CA 9033, USA.
| | - Maria Jose Campbell
- Department of Pharmacology and Pharmaceutical Sciences, University of Southern California, Los Angeles, CA 9033, USA.
| |
Collapse
|
27
|
Using backbone-cyclized Cys-rich polypeptides as molecular scaffolds to target protein-protein interactions. Biochem J 2019; 476:67-83. [PMID: 30635453 DOI: 10.1042/bcj20180792] [Citation(s) in RCA: 20] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/03/2018] [Revised: 12/07/2018] [Accepted: 12/11/2018] [Indexed: 12/23/2022]
Abstract
The use of disulfide-rich backbone-cyclized polypeptides, as molecular scaffolds to design a new generation of bioimaging tools and drugs that are potent and specific, and thus might have fewer side effects than traditional small-molecule drugs, is gaining increasing interest among the scientific and in the pharmaceutical industries. Highly constrained macrocyclic polypeptides are exceptionally more stable to chemical, thermal and biological degradation and show better biological activity when compared with their linear counterparts. Many of these relatively new scaffolds have been also found to be highly tolerant to sequence variability, aside from the conserved residues forming the disulfide bonds, able to cross cellular membranes and modulate intracellular protein-protein interactions both in vitro and in vivo These properties make them ideal tools for many biotechnological applications. The present study provides an overview of the new developments on the use of several disulfide-rich backbone-cyclized polypeptides, including cyclotides, θ-defensins and sunflower trypsin inhibitor peptides, in the development of novel bioimaging reagents and therapeutic leads.
Collapse
|
28
|
Swedberg JE, Ghani HA, Harris JM, de Veer SJ, Craik DJ. Potent, Selective, and Cell-Penetrating Inhibitors of Kallikrein-Related Peptidase 4 Based on the Cyclic Peptide MCoTI-II. ACS Med Chem Lett 2018; 9:1258-1262. [PMID: 30613336 DOI: 10.1021/acsmedchemlett.8b00422] [Citation(s) in RCA: 18] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/14/2018] [Accepted: 11/21/2018] [Indexed: 12/11/2022] Open
Abstract
Kallikrein-related peptidase 4 (KLK4) is a serine protease that has putative intracellular and extracellular functions in prostate cancer progression. Here we show that MCoTI-II, a 34-amino acid cyclic peptide found in the seeds of red gac (Momordica cochinchinensis), is an inhibitor of KLK4. By grafting a preferred KLK4 cleavage sequence into MCoTI-II, we produced a highly potent KLK4 inhibitor (K i = 0.1 nM) that displayed 100,000-fold selectivity over related KLKs and the ability to penetrate cells. Additionally, by substituting positively charged noncontact residues in this compound, we produced a potent and selective KLK4 inhibitor that does not penetrate cells. The inhibitors were shown to be nontoxic to human cells and stable in human serum. These KLK4 inhibitors provide useful chemical tools to further define the role(s) of both intracellular and extracellular KLK4 in prostate cancer cell lines and disease models.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Joakim E. Swedberg
- Institute for Molecular Bioscience, The University of Queensland, Brisbane, QLD 4072, Australia
| | - Hafiza Abdul Ghani
- Institute for Molecular Bioscience, The University of Queensland, Brisbane, QLD 4072, Australia
| | - Jonathan M. Harris
- Institute of Health and Biomedical Innovation, Queensland University of Technology, Brisbane, QLD 4059, Australia
| | - Simon J. de Veer
- Institute for Molecular Bioscience, The University of Queensland, Brisbane, QLD 4072, Australia
| | - David J. Craik
- Institute for Molecular Bioscience, The University of Queensland, Brisbane, QLD 4072, Australia
| |
Collapse
|
29
|
Camarero JA. Cyclotides, a versatile ultrastable micro-protein scaffold for biotechnological applications. Bioorg Med Chem Lett 2017; 27:5089-5099. [PMID: 29110985 PMCID: PMC5812341 DOI: 10.1016/j.bmcl.2017.10.051] [Citation(s) in RCA: 20] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/14/2017] [Revised: 10/13/2017] [Accepted: 10/21/2017] [Indexed: 01/26/2023]
Abstract
Cyclotides are fascinating microproteins (≈30-40 residues long) with a unique head-to-tail cyclized backbone, stabilized by three disulfide bonds forming a cystine knot. This unique topology makes them exceptionally stable to chemical, thermal and biological degradation compared to other peptides of similar size. Cyclotides have been also found to be highly tolerant to sequence variability, aside from the conserved residues forming the cystine knot, able to cross cellular membranes and modulate intracellular protein-protein interactions both in vitro and in vivo. These properties make them ideal scaffolds for many biotechnological applications. This article provides and overview of the properties of cyclotides and their applications as molecular imaging agents and peptide-based therapeutics.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Julio A Camarero
- Department of Pharmacology and Pharmaceutical Sciences, University of Southern California, Los Angeles, CA 90089-9121, USA; Department of Chemistry, University of Southern California, Los Angeles, CA 90089-9121, USA.
| |
Collapse
|
30
|
Recent advances in the development of novel protein scaffolds based therapeutics. Int J Biol Macromol 2017; 102:630-641. [DOI: 10.1016/j.ijbiomac.2017.04.045] [Citation(s) in RCA: 23] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/07/2016] [Revised: 04/10/2017] [Accepted: 04/11/2017] [Indexed: 12/21/2022]
|
31
|
Abstract
Cyclotides are globular microproteins with a unique head-to-tail cyclized backbone, stabilized by three disulfide bonds forming a cystine knot. This unique circular backbone topology and knotted arrangement of three disulfide bonds makes them exceptionally stable to chemical, thermal, and biological degradation compared to other peptides of similar size. In addition, cyclotides have been shown to be highly tolerant to sequence variability, aside from the conserved residues forming the cystine knot. Cyclotides can also cross cellular membranes and are able to modulate intracellular protein-protein interactions, both in vitro and in vivo. All of these features make cyclotides highly promising as leads or frameworks for the design of peptide-based diagnostic and therapeutic tools. This article provides an overview on cyclotides and their applications as molecular imaging agents and peptide-based therapeutics.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Andrew Gould
- Department of Pharmacology and Pharmaceutical Sciences, University of Southern California, Los Angeles, CA 90089-9121, USA
| | - Julio A. Camarero
- Department of Pharmacology and Pharmaceutical Sciences, University of Southern California, Los Angeles, CA 90089-9121, USA
- Department of Chemistry, University of Southern California, Los Angeles, CA 90089-9121, USA
| |
Collapse
|
32
|
Schmidt M, Toplak A, Quaedflieg PJLM, Ippel H, Richelle GJJ, Hackeng TM, van Maarseveen JH, Nuijens T. Omniligase-1: A Powerful Tool for Peptide Head-to-Tail Cyclization. Adv Synth Catal 2017. [DOI: 10.1002/adsc.201700314] [Citation(s) in RCA: 50] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/27/2022]
Affiliation(s)
- Marcel Schmidt
- EnzyPep B.V.; Brightlands Campus; Urmonderbaan 22 6167 RD Geleen The Netherlands
- Van 't Hoff Institute of Molecular Sciences; University of Amsterdam; Science Park 904 1098 XH Amsterdam The Netherlands
| | - Ana Toplak
- EnzyPep B.V.; Brightlands Campus; Urmonderbaan 22 6167 RD Geleen The Netherlands
| | | | - Hans Ippel
- Department of Biochemistry; CARIM; University of Maastricht; Universiteitsingel 50 6229 ER Maastricht The Netherlands
| | - Gaston J. J. Richelle
- Van 't Hoff Institute of Molecular Sciences; University of Amsterdam; Science Park 904 1098 XH Amsterdam The Netherlands
| | - Tilman M. Hackeng
- Department of Biochemistry; CARIM; University of Maastricht; Universiteitsingel 50 6229 ER Maastricht The Netherlands
| | - Jan H. van Maarseveen
- Van 't Hoff Institute of Molecular Sciences; University of Amsterdam; Science Park 904 1098 XH Amsterdam The Netherlands
| | - Timo Nuijens
- EnzyPep B.V.; Brightlands Campus; Urmonderbaan 22 6167 RD Geleen The Netherlands
| |
Collapse
|
33
|
Cunha NBD, Barbosa AEADD, de Almeida RG, Porto WF, Maximiano MR, Álvares LCS, Munhoz CBR, Eugênio CUO, Viana AAB, Franco OL, Dias SC. Cloning and characterization of novel cyclotides genes from South American plants. Biopolymers 2017; 106:784-795. [PMID: 27554590 DOI: 10.1002/bip.22938] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/06/2016] [Revised: 08/10/2016] [Accepted: 08/21/2016] [Indexed: 01/06/2023]
Abstract
Cyclotides are multifunctional plant cyclic peptides containing 28-37 amino acid residues and a pattern of three disulfide bridges, forming a motif known as the cyclic cystine knot. Due to their high biotechnological potential, the sequencing and characterization of cyclotide genes are crucial not only for cloning and establishing heterologous expression strategies, but also to understand local plant evolution in the context of host-pathogen relationships. Here, two species from the Brazilian Cerrado, Palicourea rigida (Rubiaceae) and Pombalia lanata (A.St.-Hil.) Paula-Souza (Violaceae), were used for cloning and characterizing novel cyclotide genes. Using 3' and 5' RACE PCR and sequencing, two full cDNAs, named parigidin-br2 (P. rigida) and hyla-br1 (P. lanata), were isolated and shown to have similar genetic structures to other cyclotides. Both contained the conserved ER-signal domain, N-terminal prodomain, mature cyclotide domain and a C-terminal region. Genomic sequencing of parigidin-br2 revealed two different gene copies: one intronless allele and one presenting a rare 131-bp intron. In contrast, genomic sequencing of hyla-br1 revealed an intronless gene-a common characteristic of members of the Violaceae family. Parigidin-br2 5' and 3' UTRs showed the presence of 12 putative candidate sites for binding of regulatory proteins, suggesting that the flanking and intronic regions of the parigidin-br2 gene must play important roles in transcriptional rates and in the regulation of temporal and spatial gene expression. The high degree of genetic similarity and structural organization among the cyclotide genes isolated in the present study from the Brazilian Cerrado and other well-characterized plant cyclotides may contribute to a better understanding of cyclotide evolution.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Nicolau Brito da Cunha
- Centro de Analises Proteômicas e Bioquímicas, Pós-graduação em Ciências Genômicas e Biotecnologia, Universidade Católica de Brasília, SGAN 916 Módulo B Avenida W5, Brasília, DF, 70790-160, Brazil
| | | | - Renato Goulart de Almeida
- Centro de Analises Proteômicas e Bioquímicas, Pós-graduação em Ciências Genômicas e Biotecnologia, Universidade Católica de Brasília, SGAN 916 Módulo B Avenida W5, Brasília, DF, 70790-160, Brazil
| | - William Farias Porto
- Centro de Analises Proteômicas e Bioquímicas, Pós-graduação em Ciências Genômicas e Biotecnologia, Universidade Católica de Brasília, SGAN 916 Módulo B Avenida W5, Brasília, DF, 70790-160, Brazil
| | - Mariana Rocha Maximiano
- Centro de Analises Proteômicas e Bioquímicas, Pós-graduação em Ciências Genômicas e Biotecnologia, Universidade Católica de Brasília, SGAN 916 Módulo B Avenida W5, Brasília, DF, 70790-160, Brazil
| | - Luana Cristina Silva Álvares
- Centro de Analises Proteômicas e Bioquímicas, Pós-graduação em Ciências Genômicas e Biotecnologia, Universidade Católica de Brasília, SGAN 916 Módulo B Avenida W5, Brasília, DF, 70790-160, Brazil
| | - Cassia Beatriz Rodrigues Munhoz
- Departamento de Botânica, Instituto de Ciências Biológicas. Bloco D. Universidade de Brasília. Campus Darcy Ribeiro 70904-970, Asa Norte. Brasília, DF, Brazil
| | - Chesterton Ulysses Orlando Eugênio
- Centro de Analises Proteômicas e Bioquímicas, Pós-graduação em Ciências Genômicas e Biotecnologia, Universidade Católica de Brasília, SGAN 916 Módulo B Avenida W5, Brasília, DF, 70790-160, Brazil
| | - Antônio Américo Barbosa Viana
- Centro de Analises Proteômicas e Bioquímicas, Pós-graduação em Ciências Genômicas e Biotecnologia, Universidade Católica de Brasília, SGAN 916 Módulo B Avenida W5, Brasília, DF, 70790-160, Brazil
| | - Octavio Luiz Franco
- Centro de Analises Proteômicas e Bioquímicas, Pós-graduação em Ciências Genômicas e Biotecnologia, Universidade Católica de Brasília, SGAN 916 Módulo B Avenida W5, Brasília, DF, 70790-160, Brazil.,S-Inova Biotech, Pós Graduação em Biotecnologia, Universidade Católica Dom Bosco, Campo Grande, MS, Brazil
| | - Simoni Campos Dias
- Centro de Analises Proteômicas e Bioquímicas, Pós-graduação em Ciências Genômicas e Biotecnologia, Universidade Católica de Brasília, SGAN 916 Módulo B Avenida W5, Brasília, DF, 70790-160, Brazil
| |
Collapse
|
34
|
Troeira Henriques S, Craik DJ. Cyclotide Structure and Function: The Role of Membrane Binding and Permeation. Biochemistry 2017; 56:669-682. [DOI: 10.1021/acs.biochem.6b01212] [Citation(s) in RCA: 37] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/30/2022]
Affiliation(s)
- Sónia Troeira Henriques
- Institute for Molecular Bioscience, The University of Queensland, Brisbane, 4072 QLD, Australia
| | - David J. Craik
- Institute for Molecular Bioscience, The University of Queensland, Brisbane, 4072 QLD, Australia
| |
Collapse
|
35
|
Loo S, Kam A, Xiao T, Nguyen GKT, Liu CF, Tam JP. Identification and Characterization of Roseltide, a Knottin-type Neutrophil Elastase Inhibitor Derived from Hibiscus sabdariffa. Sci Rep 2016; 6:39401. [PMID: 27991569 PMCID: PMC5171801 DOI: 10.1038/srep39401] [Citation(s) in RCA: 27] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/01/2016] [Accepted: 11/22/2016] [Indexed: 01/08/2023] Open
Abstract
Plant knottins are of therapeutic interest due to their high metabolic stability and inhibitory activity against proteinases involved in human diseases. The only knottin-type proteinase inhibitor against porcine pancreatic elastase was first identified from the squash family in 1989. Here, we report the identification and characterization of a knottin-type human neutrophil elastase inhibitor from Hibiscus sabdariffa of the Malvaceae family. Combining proteomic and transcriptomic methods, we identified a panel of novel cysteine-rich peptides, roseltides (rT1-rT8), which range from 27 to 39 residues with six conserved cysteine residues. The 27-residue roseltide rT1 contains a cysteine spacing and amino acid sequence that is different from the squash knottin-type elastase inhibitor. NMR analysis demonstrated that roseltide rT1 adopts a cystine-knot fold. Transcriptome analyses suggested that roseltides are bioprocessed by asparagine endopeptidases from a three-domain precursor. The cystine-knot structure of roseltide rT1 confers its high resistance against degradation by endopeptidases, 0.2 N HCl, and human serum. Roseltide rT1 was shown to inhibit human neutrophil elastase using enzymatic and pull-down assays. Additionally, roseltide rT1 ameliorates neutrophil elastase-stimulated cAMP accumulation in vitro. Taken together, our findings demonstrate that roseltide rT1 is a novel knottin-type neutrophil elastase inhibitor with therapeutic potential for neutrophil elastase associated diseases.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Shining Loo
- School of Biological Sciences, Nanyang Technological University, 60 Nanyang Drive, 637551, Singapore
| | - Antony Kam
- School of Biological Sciences, Nanyang Technological University, 60 Nanyang Drive, 637551, Singapore
| | - Tianshu Xiao
- School of Biological Sciences, Nanyang Technological University, 60 Nanyang Drive, 637551, Singapore
| | - Giang K T Nguyen
- School of Biological Sciences, Nanyang Technological University, 60 Nanyang Drive, 637551, Singapore
| | - Chuan Fa Liu
- School of Biological Sciences, Nanyang Technological University, 60 Nanyang Drive, 637551, Singapore
| | - James P Tam
- School of Biological Sciences, Nanyang Technological University, 60 Nanyang Drive, 637551, Singapore
| |
Collapse
|
36
|
Gao X, Stanger K, Kaluarachchi H, Maurer T, Ciepla P, Chalouni C, Franke Y, Hannoush RN. Cellular uptake of a cystine-knot peptide and modulation of its intracellular trafficking. Sci Rep 2016; 6:35179. [PMID: 27734922 PMCID: PMC5062073 DOI: 10.1038/srep35179] [Citation(s) in RCA: 18] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/15/2016] [Accepted: 09/26/2016] [Indexed: 11/09/2022] Open
Abstract
Cyclotides or cyclic cystine-knot peptides have emerged as a promising class of pharmacological ligands that modulate protein function. Interestingly, very few cyclotides have been shown to enter into cells. Yet, it remains unknown whether backbone cyclization is required for their cellular internalization. In this report, we studied the cellular behavior of EETI-II, a model acyclic cystine-knot peptide. Even though synthetic methods have been used to generate EETI-II, recombinant methods that allow efficient large scale biosynthesis of EETI-II have been lagging. Here, we describe a novel protocol for recombinant generation of folded EETI-II in high yields and to near homogeneity. We also uncover that EETI-II is efficiently uptaken via an active endocytic pathway to early endosomes in mammalian cells, eventually accumulating in late endosomes and lysosomes. Notably, co-incubation with a cell-penetrating peptide enhanced the cellular uptake and altered the trafficking of EETI-II, leading to its evasion of lysosomes. Our results demonstrate the feasibility of modulating the subcellular distribution and intracellular targeting of cystine-knot peptides, and hence enable future exploration of their utility in drug discovery and delivery.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Xinxin Gao
- Department of Early Discovery Biochemistry, Genentech, South San Francisco, California
| | - Karen Stanger
- Department of Early Discovery Biochemistry, Genentech, South San Francisco, California
| | - Harini Kaluarachchi
- Department of Early Discovery Biochemistry, Genentech, South San Francisco, California
| | - Till Maurer
- Department of Structural Biology, Genentech, South San Francisco, California
| | - Paulina Ciepla
- Department of Early Discovery Biochemistry, Genentech, South San Francisco, California
| | - Cecile Chalouni
- Department of Pathology, Genentech, South San Francisco, California
| | - Yvonne Franke
- Department of Structural Biology, Genentech, South San Francisco, California
| | - Rami N Hannoush
- Department of Early Discovery Biochemistry, Genentech, South San Francisco, California
| |
Collapse
|
37
|
Weidmann J, Craik DJ. Discovery, structure, function, and applications of cyclotides: circular proteins from plants. JOURNAL OF EXPERIMENTAL BOTANY 2016; 67:4801-12. [PMID: 27222514 DOI: 10.1093/jxb/erw210] [Citation(s) in RCA: 71] [Impact Index Per Article: 8.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 05/07/2023]
Abstract
Cyclotides are plant-derived cyclic peptides that have a head-to-tail cyclic backbone and three conserved disulphide bonds that form a cyclic cystine knot motif. They occur in plants from the Violaceae, Rubiaceae, Cucurbitaceae, Fabaceae, and Solanaceae families, typically with 10-100 cyclotides in a given plant species, in a wide range of tissues, including flowers, leaves, stems, and roots. Some cyclotides are expressed in large amounts (up to 1g kg(-1) wet plant weight) and their natural function appears to be to protect plants from pests or pathogens. This article provides a brief overview of their discovery, distribution in plants, and applications. In particular, their exceptional stability has led to their use as peptide-based scaffolds in drug design applications. They also have potential as natural 'ecofriendly' insecticides, and as protein engineering frameworks.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Joachim Weidmann
- Institute for Molecular Bioscience, The University of Queensland, Brisbane, QLD 4072, Australia
| | - David J Craik
- Institute for Molecular Bioscience, The University of Queensland, Brisbane, QLD 4072, Australia
| |
Collapse
|
38
|
Camarero JA, Kimura RH, Woo YH, Shekhtman A, Cantor J. Biosynthesis of a fully functional cyclotide inside living bacterial cells. Chembiochem 2016; 8:1363-6. [PMID: 17590879 DOI: 10.1002/cbic.200700183] [Citation(s) in RCA: 91] [Impact Index Per Article: 11.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/06/2022]
Affiliation(s)
- Julio A Camarero
- Lawrence Livermore National Laboratory, University of California, 7000 East Avenue, L-231, Livermore, CA 94550, USA.
| | | | | | | | | |
Collapse
|
39
|
Jones PM, George AM. Computational analysis of the MCoTI-II plant defence knottin reveals a novel intermediate conformation that facilitates trypsin binding. Sci Rep 2016; 6:23174. [PMID: 26975976 PMCID: PMC4791599 DOI: 10.1038/srep23174] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/20/2015] [Accepted: 02/25/2016] [Indexed: 11/09/2022] Open
Abstract
MCoTI-I and II are plant defence proteins, potent trypsin inhibitors from the bitter gourd Momordica cochinchinensis. They are members of the Knottin Family, which display exceptional stability due to unique topology comprising three interlocked disulfide bridges. Knottins show promise as scaffolds for new drug development. A crystal structure of trypsin-bound MCoTI-II suggested that loop 1, which engages the trypsin active site, would show decreased dynamics in the bound state, an inference at odds with an NMR analysis of MCoTI-I, which revealed increased dynamics of loop 1 in the presence of trypsin. To investigate this question, we performed unrestrained MD simulations of trypsin-bound and free MCoTI-II. This analysis found that loop 1 of MCoTI-II is not more dynamic in the trypsin-bound state than in the free state. However, it revealed an intermediate conformation, transitional between the free and bound MCoTI-II states. The data suggest that MCoTI-II binding involves a process in which initial interaction with trypsin induces transitions between the free and intermediate conformations, and fluctuations between these states account for the increase in dynamics of loop 1 observed for trypsin-bound MCoTI-I. The MD analysis thus revealed new aspects of the inhibitors’ dynamics that may be of utility in drug design.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Peter M Jones
- School of Life Sciences, University of Technology Sydney, PO Box 123, Broadway, NSW 2007 Australia
| | - Anthony M George
- School of Life Sciences, University of Technology Sydney, PO Box 123, Broadway, NSW 2007 Australia
| |
Collapse
|
40
|
Conibear AC, Chaousis S, Durek T, Johan Rosengren K, Craik DJ, Schroeder CI. Approaches to the stabilization of bioactive epitopes by grafting and peptide cyclization. Biopolymers 2016; 106:89-100. [DOI: 10.1002/bip.22767] [Citation(s) in RCA: 38] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/15/2015] [Accepted: 11/02/2015] [Indexed: 02/06/2023]
Affiliation(s)
- Anne C. Conibear
- Institute for Molecular Bioscience, The University of Queensland; Brisbane QLD 4072 Australia
| | - Stephanie Chaousis
- Institute for Molecular Bioscience, The University of Queensland; Brisbane QLD 4072 Australia
| | - Thomas Durek
- Institute for Molecular Bioscience, The University of Queensland; Brisbane QLD 4072 Australia
| | - K. Johan Rosengren
- Institute for Molecular Bioscience, The University of Queensland; Brisbane QLD 4072 Australia
- School of Biomedical Sciences; The University of Queensland; Brisbane QLD 4072 Australia
| | - David J. Craik
- Institute for Molecular Bioscience, The University of Queensland; Brisbane QLD 4072 Australia
| | - Christina I. Schroeder
- Institute for Molecular Bioscience, The University of Queensland; Brisbane QLD 4072 Australia
| |
Collapse
|
41
|
Synthetic Cystine-Knot Miniproteins - Valuable Scaffolds for Polypeptide Engineering. ADVANCES IN EXPERIMENTAL MEDICINE AND BIOLOGY 2016; 917:121-44. [PMID: 27236555 DOI: 10.1007/978-3-319-32805-8_7] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/03/2022]
Abstract
Peptides with the cystine-knot architecture, often termed knottins, are promising scaffolds for biomolecular engineering. These unique molecules combine diverse bioactivities with excellent structural, thermal, and proteolytical stability. Being different in the composition and structure of their amino acid backbone, knottins share the same core element, namely cystine knot, which is built by six cysteine residues forming three disulfides upon oxidative folding. This motif ensures a notably rigid framework that highly tolerates both rational and combinatorial changes in the primary structure. Being accessible through recombinant production and total chemical synthesis, cystine-knot miniproteins can be endowed with novel bioactivities by variation of surface-exposed loops and incorporation of non-natural elements within their non-conserved regions towards the generation of tailor-made peptidic compounds. In this chapter the topology of cystine-knot peptides, their synthesis and applications for diagnostics and therapy is discussed.
Collapse
|
42
|
Tam JP, Wang S, Wong KH, Tan WL. Antimicrobial Peptides from Plants. Pharmaceuticals (Basel) 2015; 8:711-57. [PMID: 26580629 PMCID: PMC4695807 DOI: 10.3390/ph8040711] [Citation(s) in RCA: 276] [Impact Index Per Article: 30.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/16/2015] [Revised: 08/06/2015] [Accepted: 09/01/2015] [Indexed: 12/25/2022] Open
Abstract
Plant antimicrobial peptides (AMPs) have evolved differently from AMPs from other life forms. They are generally rich in cysteine residues which form multiple disulfides. In turn, the disulfides cross-braced plant AMPs as cystine-rich peptides to confer them with extraordinary high chemical, thermal and proteolytic stability. The cystine-rich or commonly known as cysteine-rich peptides (CRPs) of plant AMPs are classified into families based on their sequence similarity, cysteine motifs that determine their distinctive disulfide bond patterns and tertiary structure fold. Cystine-rich plant AMP families include thionins, defensins, hevein-like peptides, knottin-type peptides (linear and cyclic), lipid transfer proteins, α-hairpinin and snakins family. In addition, there are AMPs which are rich in other amino acids. The ability of plant AMPs to organize into specific families with conserved structural folds that enable sequence variation of non-Cys residues encased in the same scaffold within a particular family to play multiple functions. Furthermore, the ability of plant AMPs to tolerate hypervariable sequences using a conserved scaffold provides diversity to recognize different targets by varying the sequence of the non-cysteine residues. These properties bode well for developing plant AMPs as potential therapeutics and for protection of crops through transgenic methods. This review provides an overview of the major families of plant AMPs, including their structures, functions, and putative mechanisms.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- James P Tam
- School of Biological Sciences, Nanyang Technological University, Singapore, Singapore.
| | - Shujing Wang
- School of Biological Sciences, Nanyang Technological University, Singapore, Singapore.
- Department of Pharmacology and Pharmaceutical Sciences, School of Medicine, Tsinghua University, Beijing 100084, China.
| | - Ka H Wong
- School of Biological Sciences, Nanyang Technological University, Singapore, Singapore.
| | - Wei Liang Tan
- School of Biological Sciences, Nanyang Technological University, Singapore, Singapore.
| |
Collapse
|
43
|
Blanco-Canosa JB, Nardone B, Albericio F, Dawson PE. Chemical Protein Synthesis Using a Second-Generation N-Acylurea Linker for the Preparation of Peptide-Thioester Precursors. J Am Chem Soc 2015; 137:7197-209. [DOI: 10.1021/jacs.5b03504] [Citation(s) in RCA: 147] [Impact Index Per Article: 16.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/24/2022]
Affiliation(s)
| | - Brunello Nardone
- Departments
of Chemistry and Biology, University of Salerno, Via Giovanni
Paolo II 132, Fisciano 84084, Italy
| | - Fernando Albericio
- Department
of Organic Chemistry, University of Barcelona, Martí i Franqués 1-11, Barcelona 08028, Spain
| | - Philip E. Dawson
- Department
of Chemistry, The Scripps Research Institute (TSRI), 10550 N. Torrey
Pines Road, La Jolla, California 92037, United States
| |
Collapse
|
44
|
Maaß F, Wüstehube-Lausch J, Dickgießer S, Valldorf B, Reinwarth M, Schmoldt HU, Daneschdar M, Avrutina O, Sahin U, Kolmar H. Cystine-knot peptides targeting cancer-relevant human cytotoxic T lymphocyte-associated antigen 4 (CTLA-4). J Pept Sci 2015; 21:651-60. [PMID: 25964162 DOI: 10.1002/psc.2782] [Citation(s) in RCA: 30] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/28/2015] [Revised: 03/15/2015] [Accepted: 03/16/2015] [Indexed: 11/09/2022]
Abstract
Cystine-knot peptides sharing a common fold but displaying a notably large diversity within the primary structure of flanking loops have shown great potential as scaffolds for the development of therapeutic and diagnostic agents. In this study, we demonstrated that the cystine-knot peptide MCoTI-II, a trypsin inhibitor from Momordica cochinchinensis, can be engineered to bind to cytotoxic T lymphocyte-associated antigen 4 (CTLA-4), an inhibitory receptor expressed by T lymphocytes, that has emerged as a target for the treatment of metastatic melanoma. Directed evolution was used to convert a cystine-knot trypsin inhibitor into a CTLA-4 binder by screening a library of variants using yeast surface display. A set of cystine-knot peptides possessing dissociation constants in the micromolar range was obtained; the most potent variant was synthesized chemically. Successive conjugation with neutravidin, fusion to antibody Fc domain or the oligomerization domain of C4b binding protein resulted in oligovalent variants that possessed enhanced (up to 400-fold) dissociation constants in the nanomolar range. Our data indicate that display of multiple knottin peptides on an oligomeric scaffold protein is a valid strategy to improve their functional affinity with ramifications for applications in diagnostics and therapy.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Franziska Maaß
- Institute of Organic Chemistry and Biochemistry, Technische Universität Darmstadt, Darmstadt, Germany
| | | | - Stephan Dickgießer
- Institute of Organic Chemistry and Biochemistry, Technische Universität Darmstadt, Darmstadt, Germany
| | - Bernhard Valldorf
- Institute of Organic Chemistry and Biochemistry, Technische Universität Darmstadt, Darmstadt, Germany
| | - Michael Reinwarth
- Institute of Organic Chemistry and Biochemistry, Technische Universität Darmstadt, Darmstadt, Germany
| | | | | | - Olga Avrutina
- Institute of Organic Chemistry and Biochemistry, Technische Universität Darmstadt, Darmstadt, Germany
| | | | - Harald Kolmar
- Institute of Organic Chemistry and Biochemistry, Technische Universität Darmstadt, Darmstadt, Germany
| |
Collapse
|
45
|
Nguyen PQT, Luu TT, Bai Y, Nguyen GKT, Pervushin K, Tam JP. Allotides: Proline-Rich Cystine Knot α-Amylase Inhibitors from Allamanda cathartica. JOURNAL OF NATURAL PRODUCTS 2015; 78:695-704. [PMID: 25832441 DOI: 10.1021/np500866c] [Citation(s) in RCA: 16] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 05/05/2023]
Abstract
Cystine knot α-amylase inhibitors belong to a knottin family of peptidyl inhibitors of 30-32 residues and contain two to four prolines. Thus far, only four members of the group of cystine knot α-amylase inhibitors have been characterized. Herein, the discovery and characterization of five cystine knot α-amylase inhibitors, allotides C1-C5 (Ac1-Ac5) (1-5), from the medicinal plant Allamanda cathartica are reported using both proteomic and genomic methods. Proteomic analysis showed that 1-5 are 30 amino acids in length with three or four proline residues. NMR determination of 4 revealed that it has two cis- and one trans-proline residues and adopts two equally populated conformations in solution. Determination of disulfide connectivity of 2 by differential S-reduction and S-alkylation provided clues of its unfolding process. Genomic analysis showed that allotide precursors contain a three-domain arrangement commonly found in plant cystine knot peptides with conserved residues flanking the processing sites of the mature allotide domain. This work expands the number of known cystine knot α-amylase inhibitors and furthers the understanding of both the structural and biological diversity of this type of knottin family.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Phuong Q T Nguyen
- School of Biological Sciences, Nanyang Technological University, Singapore 637551
| | - Thuy T Luu
- School of Biological Sciences, Nanyang Technological University, Singapore 637551
| | - Yang Bai
- School of Biological Sciences, Nanyang Technological University, Singapore 637551
| | - Giang K T Nguyen
- School of Biological Sciences, Nanyang Technological University, Singapore 637551
| | - Konstantin Pervushin
- School of Biological Sciences, Nanyang Technological University, Singapore 637551
| | - James P Tam
- School of Biological Sciences, Nanyang Technological University, Singapore 637551
| |
Collapse
|
46
|
Mazzio E, Georges B, McTier O, Soliman KFA. Neurotrophic Effects of Mu Bie Zi (Momordica cochinchinensis) Seed Elucidated by High-Throughput Screening of Natural Products for NGF Mimetic Effects in PC-12 Cells. Neurochem Res 2015; 40:2102-12. [PMID: 25862192 DOI: 10.1007/s11064-015-1560-y] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/03/2014] [Revised: 03/16/2015] [Accepted: 03/18/2015] [Indexed: 12/22/2022]
Abstract
Post-mitotic central nervous system (CNS) neurons have limited capacity for regeneration, creating a challenge in the development of effective therapeutics for spinal cord injury or neurodegenerative diseases. Furthermore, therapeutic use of human neurotrophic agents such as nerve growth factor (NGF) are limited due to hampered transport across the blood brain barrier (BBB) and a large number of peripheral side effects (e.g. neuro-inflammatory pain/tissue degeneration etc.). Therefore, there is a continued need for discovery of small molecule NGF mimetics that can penetrate the BBB and initiate CNS neuronal outgrowth/regeneration. In the current study, we conduct an exploratory high-through-put (HTP) screening of 1144 predominantly natural/herb products (947 natural herbs/plants/spices, 29 polyphenolics and 168 synthetic drugs) for ability to induce neurite outgrowth in PC12 dopaminergic cells grown on rat tail collagen, over 7 days. The data indicate a remarkably rare event-low hit ratio with only 1/1144 tested substances (<111.25 µg/mL) being capable of inducing neurite outgrowth in a dose dependent manner, identified as; Mu Bie Zi, Momordica cochinchinensis seed extract (MCS). To quantify the neurotrophic effects of MCS, 36 images (n = 6) (average of 340 cells per image), were numerically assessed for neurite length, neurite count/cell and min/max neurite length in microns (µm) using Image J software. The data show neurite elongation from 0.07 ± 0.02 µm (controls) to 5.5 ± 0.62 µm (NGF 0.5 μg/mL) and 3.39 ± 0.45 µm (138 μg/mL) in MCS, where the average maximum length per group extended from 3.58 ± 0.42 µm (controls) to 41.93 ± 3.14 µm (NGF) and 40.20 ± 2.72 µm (MCS). Imaging analysis using immunocytochemistry (ICC) confirmed that NGF and MCS had similar influence on 3-D orientation/expression of 160/200 kD neurofilament, tubulin and F-actin. These latent changes were associated with early rise in phosphorylated extracellular signal-regulated kinase (ERK) p-Erk1 (T202/Y204)/p-Erk2 (T185/Y187) at 60 min with mild changes in pAKT peaking at 5 min, and no indication of pMEK involvement. These findings demonstrate a remarkable infrequency of natural products or polyphenolic constituents to exert neurotrophic effects at low concentrations, and elucidate a unique property of MCS extract to do so. Future research will be required to delineate in depth mechanism of action of MCS, constituents responsible and potential for therapeutic application in CNS degenerative disease or injury.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- E Mazzio
- College of Pharmacy and Pharmaceutical Sciences, Florida A&M University, Room 104, Dyson Pharmacy Building, 1520 ML King Blvd, Tallahassee, FL, 32307, USA
| | - B Georges
- Department of Biology, Florida A&M University, Tallahassee, FL, 32307, USA
| | - O McTier
- Department of Biology, Florida A&M University, Tallahassee, FL, 32307, USA
| | - Karam F A Soliman
- College of Pharmacy and Pharmaceutical Sciences, Florida A&M University, Room 104, Dyson Pharmacy Building, 1520 ML King Blvd, Tallahassee, FL, 32307, USA.
| |
Collapse
|
47
|
Burman R, Yeshak MY, Larsson S, Craik DJ, Rosengren KJ, Göransson U. Distribution of circular proteins in plants: large-scale mapping of cyclotides in the Violaceae. FRONTIERS IN PLANT SCIENCE 2015; 6:855. [PMID: 26579135 PMCID: PMC4621522 DOI: 10.3389/fpls.2015.00855] [Citation(s) in RCA: 27] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/18/2015] [Accepted: 09/28/2015] [Indexed: 05/02/2023]
Abstract
During the last decade there has been increasing interest in small circular proteins found in plants of the violet family (Violaceae). These so-called cyclotides consist of a circular chain of approximately 30 amino acids, including six cysteines forming three disulfide bonds, arranged in a cyclic cystine knot (CCK) motif. In this study we map the occurrence and distribution of cyclotides throughout the Violaceae. Plant material was obtained from herbarium sheets containing samples up to 200 years of age. Even the oldest specimens contained cyclotides in the preserved leaves, with no degradation products observable, confirming their place as one of the most stable proteins in nature. Over 200 samples covering 17 of the 23-31 genera in Violaceae were analyzed, and cyclotides were positively identified in 150 species. Each species contained a unique set of between one and 25 cyclotides, with many exclusive to individual plant species. We estimate the number of different cyclotides in the Violaceae to be 5000-25,000, and propose that cyclotides are ubiquitous among all Violaceae species. Twelve new cyclotides from six phylogenetically dispersed genera were sequenced. Furthermore, the first glycosylated derivatives of cyclotides were identified and characterized, further increasing the diversity and complexity of this unique protein family.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Robert Burman
- Division of Pharmacognosy, Department of Medicinal Chemistry, Uppsala UniversityUppsala, Sweden
| | - Mariamawit Y. Yeshak
- Division of Pharmacognosy, Department of Medicinal Chemistry, Uppsala UniversityUppsala, Sweden
- Department of Pharmacognosy, School of Pharmacy, Addis Ababa UniversityAddis Ababa, Ethiopia
| | - Sonny Larsson
- Division of Pharmacognosy, Department of Medicinal Chemistry, Uppsala UniversityUppsala, Sweden
| | - David J. Craik
- Craik Lab, Chemistry and Structural Biology Division, Institute for Molecular Bioscience, The University of QueenslandBrisbane, QLD, Australia
| | - K. Johan Rosengren
- Division of Pharmacognosy, Department of Medicinal Chemistry, Uppsala UniversityUppsala, Sweden
- Laboratory for Peptide Structural Biology, School of Biomedical Sciences, The University of QueenslandBrisbane, QLD, Australia
| | - Ulf Göransson
- Division of Pharmacognosy, Department of Medicinal Chemistry, Uppsala UniversityUppsala, Sweden
- *Correspondence: Ulf Göransson
| |
Collapse
|
48
|
Li Y, Bi T, Camarero JA. Chemical and biological production of cyclotides. ADVANCES IN BOTANICAL RESEARCH 2015; 76:271-303. [PMID: 27064329 PMCID: PMC4822716 DOI: 10.1016/bs.abr.2015.08.006] [Citation(s) in RCA: 20] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 06/05/2023]
Abstract
Cyclotides are fascinating naturally occurring micro-proteins (≈30 residues long) present in several plant families, and display various biological properties such as protease inhibitory, anti-microbial, insecticidal, cytotoxic, anti-HIV and hormone-like activities. Cyclotides share a unique head-to-tail circular knotted topology of three disulfide bridges, with one disulfide penetrating through a macrocycle formed by the two other disulfides and interconnecting peptide backbones, forming what is called a cystine knot topology. This cyclic cystine knot (CCK) framework gives the cyclotides exceptional rigidity, resistance to thermal and chemical denaturation, and enzymatic stability against degradation. Interestingly, cyclotides have been shown to be orally bioavailable, and other cyclotides have been shown to cross the cell membranes. Moreover, recent reports have also shown that engineered cyclotides can be efficiently used to target extracellular and intracellular protein-protein interactions, therefore making cyclotides ideal tools for drug development to selectively target protein-protein interactions. In this work we will review all the available methods for production of these interesting proteins using chemical or biological methods.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Yilong Li
- Department of Pharmacology and Pharmaceutical Sciences, University of Southern California, Los Angeles, CA 90033, USA
| | - Tao Bi
- Department of Pharmacology and Pharmaceutical Sciences, University of Southern California, Los Angeles, CA 90033, USA
| | - Julio A. Camarero
- Department of Pharmacology and Pharmaceutical Sciences, University of Southern California, Los Angeles, CA 90033, USA
- Department of Chemistry, University of Southern California, Los Angeles, CA 90033, USA
| |
Collapse
|
49
|
Stanger K, Maurer T, Kaluarachchi H, Coons M, Franke Y, Hannoush RN. Backbone cyclization of a recombinant cystine-knot peptide by engineered Sortase A. FEBS Lett 2014; 588:4487-96. [DOI: 10.1016/j.febslet.2014.10.020] [Citation(s) in RCA: 39] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/15/2014] [Revised: 10/18/2014] [Accepted: 10/20/2014] [Indexed: 11/15/2022]
|
50
|
Reinwarth M, Avrutina O, Fabritz S, Kolmar H. Fragmentation follows structure: top-down mass spectrometry elucidates the topology of engineered cystine-knot miniproteins. PLoS One 2014; 9:e108626. [PMID: 25303319 PMCID: PMC4193770 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pone.0108626] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/02/2014] [Accepted: 09/02/2014] [Indexed: 12/21/2022] Open
Abstract
Over the last decades the field of pharmaceutically relevant peptides has enormously expanded. Among them, several peptide families exist that contain three or more disulfide bonds. In this context, elucidation of the disulfide patterns is extremely important as these motifs are often prerequisites for folding, stability, and activity. An example of this structure-determining pattern is a cystine knot which comprises three constrained disulfide bonds and represents a core element in a vast number of mechanically interlocked peptidic structures possessing different biological activities. Herein, we present our studies on disulfide pattern determination and structure elucidation of cystine-knot miniproteins derived from Momordica cochinchinensis peptide MCoTI-II, which act as potent inhibitors of human matriptase-1. A top-down mass spectrometric analysis of the oxidised and bioactive peptides is described. Following the detailed sequencing of the peptide backbone, interpretation of the MS(3) spectra allowed for the verification of the knotted topology of the examined miniproteins. Moreover, we found that the fragmentation pattern depends on the knottin's folding state, hence, tertiary structure, which to our knowledge has not been described for a top-down MS approach before.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Michael Reinwarth
- Institute of Organic Chemistry and Biochemistry, Technische Universität Darmstadt, Darmstadt, Germany
| | - Olga Avrutina
- Institute of Organic Chemistry and Biochemistry, Technische Universität Darmstadt, Darmstadt, Germany
| | | | - Harald Kolmar
- Institute of Organic Chemistry and Biochemistry, Technische Universität Darmstadt, Darmstadt, Germany
- * E-mail: (SF); (HK)
| |
Collapse
|