1
|
Gabbianelli R, Shahar E, de Simone G, Rucci C, Bordoni L, Feliziani G, Zhao F, Ferrati M, Maggi F, Spinozzi E, Mahajna J. Plant-Derived Epi-Nutraceuticals as Potential Broad-Spectrum Anti-Viral Agents. Nutrients 2023; 15:4719. [PMID: 38004113 PMCID: PMC10675658 DOI: 10.3390/nu15224719] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/17/2023] [Revised: 10/29/2023] [Accepted: 10/31/2023] [Indexed: 11/26/2023] Open
Abstract
Although the COVID-19 pandemic appears to be diminishing, the emergence of SARS-CoV-2 variants represents a threat to humans due to their inherent transmissibility, immunological evasion, virulence, and invulnerability to existing therapies. The COVID-19 pandemic affected more than 500 million people and caused over 6 million deaths. Vaccines are essential, but in circumstances in which vaccination is not accessible or in individuals with compromised immune systems, drugs can provide additional protection. Targeting host signaling pathways is recommended due to their genomic stability and resistance barriers. Moreover, targeting host factors allows us to develop compounds that are effective against different viral variants as well as against newly emerging virus strains. In recent years, the globe has experienced climate change, which may contribute to the emergence and spread of infectious diseases through a variety of factors. Warmer temperatures and changing precipitation patterns can increase the geographic range of disease-carrying vectors, increasing the risk of diseases spreading to new areas. Climate change may also affect vector behavior, leading to a longer breeding season and more breeding sites for disease vectors. Climate change may also disrupt ecosystems, bringing humans closer to wildlife that transmits zoonotic diseases. All the above factors may accelerate the emergence of new viral epidemics. Plant-derived products, which have been used in traditional medicine for treating pathological conditions, offer structurally novel therapeutic compounds, including those with anti-viral activity. In addition, plant-derived bioactive substances might serve as the ideal basis for developing sustainable/efficient/cost-effective anti-viral alternatives. Interest in herbal antiviral products has increased. More than 50% of approved drugs originate from herbal sources. Plant-derived compounds offer diverse structures and bioactive molecules that are candidates for new drug development. Combining these therapies with conventional drugs could improve patient outcomes. Epigenetics modifications in the genome can affect gene expression without altering DNA sequences. Host cells can use epigenetic gene regulation as a mechanism to silence incoming viral DNA molecules, while viruses recruit cellular epitranscriptomic (covalent modifications of RNAs) modifiers to increase the translational efficiency and transcript stability of viral transcripts to enhance viral gene expression and replication. Moreover, viruses manipulate host cells' epigenetic machinery to ensure productive viral infections. Environmental factors, such as natural products, may influence epigenetic modifications. In this review, we explore the potential of plant-derived substances as epigenetic modifiers for broad-spectrum anti-viral activity, reviewing their modulation processes and anti-viral effects on DNA and RNA viruses, as well as addressing future research objectives in this rapidly emerging field.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Rosita Gabbianelli
- Unit of Molecular Biology and Nutrigenomics, University of Camerino, Via Madonna delle Carceri, 62032 Camerino, Italy; (R.G.); (G.d.S.); (L.B.); (G.F.); (F.Z.)
| | - Ehud Shahar
- Department of Nutrition and Natural Products, Migal—Galilee Research Institute, Kiryat Shmona 11016, Israel;
- Department of Biotechnology, Tel-Hai College, Kiryat Shmona 1220800, Israel
| | - Gaia de Simone
- Unit of Molecular Biology and Nutrigenomics, University of Camerino, Via Madonna delle Carceri, 62032 Camerino, Italy; (R.G.); (G.d.S.); (L.B.); (G.F.); (F.Z.)
| | - Chiara Rucci
- Unit of Molecular Biology and Nutrigenomics, University of Camerino, Via Madonna delle Carceri, 62032 Camerino, Italy; (R.G.); (G.d.S.); (L.B.); (G.F.); (F.Z.)
| | - Laura Bordoni
- Unit of Molecular Biology and Nutrigenomics, University of Camerino, Via Madonna delle Carceri, 62032 Camerino, Italy; (R.G.); (G.d.S.); (L.B.); (G.F.); (F.Z.)
| | - Giulia Feliziani
- Unit of Molecular Biology and Nutrigenomics, University of Camerino, Via Madonna delle Carceri, 62032 Camerino, Italy; (R.G.); (G.d.S.); (L.B.); (G.F.); (F.Z.)
| | - Fanrui Zhao
- Unit of Molecular Biology and Nutrigenomics, University of Camerino, Via Madonna delle Carceri, 62032 Camerino, Italy; (R.G.); (G.d.S.); (L.B.); (G.F.); (F.Z.)
| | - Marta Ferrati
- Chemistry Interdisciplinary Project (ChIP) Research Centre, School of Pharmacy, University of Camerino, Via Madonna delle Carceri, 62032 Camerino, Italy; (M.F.); (F.M.); (E.S.)
| | - Filippo Maggi
- Chemistry Interdisciplinary Project (ChIP) Research Centre, School of Pharmacy, University of Camerino, Via Madonna delle Carceri, 62032 Camerino, Italy; (M.F.); (F.M.); (E.S.)
| | - Eleonora Spinozzi
- Chemistry Interdisciplinary Project (ChIP) Research Centre, School of Pharmacy, University of Camerino, Via Madonna delle Carceri, 62032 Camerino, Italy; (M.F.); (F.M.); (E.S.)
| | - Jamal Mahajna
- Department of Nutrition and Natural Products, Migal—Galilee Research Institute, Kiryat Shmona 11016, Israel;
- Department of Biotechnology, Tel-Hai College, Kiryat Shmona 1220800, Israel
| |
Collapse
|
2
|
Dubhashi S, Sinha S, Dwivedi S, Ghanekar J, Kadam S, Samant P, Datta V, Singh S, Chaudry IH, Gurmet P, Kelkar H, Mishra R, Galwankar S, Agrawal A. Early Trends to Show the Efficacy of Cordyceps militaris in Mild to Moderate COVID Inflammation. Cureus 2023; 15:e43731. [PMID: 37727187 PMCID: PMC10505833 DOI: 10.7759/cureus.43731] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 08/18/2023] [Indexed: 09/21/2023] Open
Abstract
Background/objective Cordyceps enhances animal survival against influenza by boosting the immune system. In animal studies, it also had anti-inflammatory and preventive properties. Cordyceps stimulates the immune system by increasing the activity and production of various immune cells. Some studies have shown the role of Cordyceps in the novel SARS-CoV-2 virus responsible for the COVID-19 pandemic, in addition to other respiratory diseases caused by the Picorna viruses, SARS-CoV, MERS-CoV, and Influenza viruses. However, it remains unknown whether this food supplement is safe and has anti-inflammatory effects in patients with COVID-19. Therefore, the objectives of this study were to evaluate the use and efficacy of Cordyceps capsules as an adjunct to standard treatment in patients with mild (symptomatic) to moderate COVID-19 infection. Methods A randomised, double-blind, placebo-controlled study was conducted to evaluate the efficacy and safety of Cordyceps capsules (a food supplement) 500 mg as adjuvant therapy in patients with COVID-19. The rationale for dose selection was as per the existing evidence from toxicity studies. The inclusion criteria were patients with either a mild or moderate COVID-19 infection. Clinical features suggestive of dyspnoea or hypoxia, fever, and cough, including SpO2 <94% (range 90-94%) on room air and a respiratory rate ≥24 per minute, were also included. Results Sixty-five patients were recruited for the study, with 33 in the Cordyceps group and 32 in the placebo group. Out of 58 evaluable patients, 33 recovered on day 5, 49 on day 10, and 58 on days 16 and 30. The recovery of patients steadily increased from 56.9% on day 5 to 100% on day 30. The time to clinical recovery was shorter in the Cordyceps group than in the placebo group (mean 6.6 vs. 7.3 days; p > 0.05) overall and for mild disease. However, there was no difference in the time to recovery (time from day 1 to the resolution of all symptoms) for moderate disease. A lower frequency of normal chest X-rays on day 1 and a higher number on day 16 in the treatment group than in the placebo group suggest an improvement in the number of normal chest X-rays with Cordyceps. Significant changes were seen in biomarkers MCPIP, CxCL10, and IL-1β for overall (both mild and moderate patients) on days 5 and 10 as compared to baseline, and in biomarkers CRP and CxCL10 in moderate category patients on days 5 and 10, respectively. There were no statistically significant changes in IL-6, ferritin, lactate dehydrogenase (LDH), C-reactive protein (CRP), or D-dimer levels between baseline and day 5/10 in patients taking Cordyceps capsules and also between the treatment and placebo groups. Conclusion Cordyceps capsules administered at a dose of 500 mg three times a day along with supportive treatment showed effectiveness in patients with mild to moderate COVID-19 infection, as evidenced by the proportionately higher number of recoveries on day 5, the relatively shorter time for improvement of clinical symptoms, and the proportionately higher number of patients showing negative RT-PCR tests on day 10. Thus, Cordyceps appears to be a safe immunological adjuvant for the treatment of patients with mild-to-moderate COVID-19. Future studies with a larger sample size would shed more light on the evidence, as there are limitations in the generalizability of the results from the present study due to the small sample size.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
| | - Sagar Sinha
- Emergency Medicine, Mahatma Gandhi Mission (MGM) Medical College and Hospital, Navi Mumbai, IND
| | - Sankalp Dwivedi
- General Surgery, Maharishi Markandeshwar (MM) Institute of Medical Sciences and Research, Mullana, IND
| | - Jaishree Ghanekar
- Internal Medicine, Mahatma Gandhi Mission (MGM) Medical College and Hospital, Navi Mumbai, IND
| | - Sameer Kadam
- Cardiovascular Surgery, Mahatma Gandhi Mission (MGM) Medical College and Hospital, Navi Mumbai, IND
| | - Parineeta Samant
- Biochemistry, Mahatma Gandhi Mission (MGM) Medical College and Hospital, Navi Mumbai, IND
| | - Vibha Datta
- Pathology, All India Institute of Medical Sciences, Nagpur, Nagpur, IND
| | - Sarman Singh
- Medical Science and Engineering Research (MEDSER) Center, Indian Institute of Science Education and Research (IISER), Bhopal, IND
| | | | - Padma Gurmet
- Miscellaneous, National Institute of Sowa-Rigpa, Leh, IND
| | | | - Rakesh Mishra
- Neurosurgery, All India Institute of Medical Sciences, Bhopal, Bhopal, IND
| | - Sagar Galwankar
- Emergency Medicine, Florida State University College of Medicine, Sarasota, USA
| | - Amit Agrawal
- Neurosurgery, All India Institute of Medical Sciences, Bhopal, Bhopal, IND
| |
Collapse
|
3
|
Wang L, Yan H, Zeng B, Hu Z. Research Progress on Cordycepin Synthesis and Methods for Enhancement of Cordycepin Production in Cordyceps militaris. Bioengineering (Basel) 2022; 9:bioengineering9020069. [PMID: 35200422 PMCID: PMC8869658 DOI: 10.3390/bioengineering9020069] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/13/2021] [Revised: 01/17/2022] [Accepted: 02/09/2022] [Indexed: 12/04/2022] Open
Abstract
C. militaris is an insect-born fungus that belongs to Ascomycota and Cordyceps. It has a variety of biological activities that can be applied in medicine, health-care products, cosmeceuticals and other fields. Cordycepin (COR) is one of the major bioactive components identified from C. militaris. Thus, C. militaris and COR have attracted extensive attention. In this study, chemical synthetic methods and the biosynthesis pathway of COR were reviewed. As commercially COR was mainly isolated from C. militaris fermentation, the optimizations for liquid and solid fermentation and genetic modifications of C. militaris to increase COR content were also summarized. Moreover, the research progress of genetic modifications of C. militaris and methods for separation and purification COR were introduced. Finally, the existing problems and future research direction of C. militaris were discussed. This study provides a reference for the production of COR in the future.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Li Wang
- Jiangxi Key Laboratory of Bioprocess Engineering, College of Life Science, Jiangxi Science & Technology Normal University, Nanchang 330013, China; (L.W.); (H.Y.)
| | - Huanhuan Yan
- Jiangxi Key Laboratory of Bioprocess Engineering, College of Life Science, Jiangxi Science & Technology Normal University, Nanchang 330013, China; (L.W.); (H.Y.)
| | - Bin Zeng
- Jiangxi Key Laboratory of Bioprocess Engineering, College of Life Science, Jiangxi Science & Technology Normal University, Nanchang 330013, China; (L.W.); (H.Y.)
- College of Pharmacy, Shenzhen Technology University, Shenzhen 518118, China
- Correspondence: (B.Z.); (Z.H.); Tel.: +86-13755679856 (B.Z.); +86-15797865372 (Z.H.)
| | - Zhihong Hu
- Jiangxi Key Laboratory of Bioprocess Engineering, College of Life Science, Jiangxi Science & Technology Normal University, Nanchang 330013, China; (L.W.); (H.Y.)
- Correspondence: (B.Z.); (Z.H.); Tel.: +86-13755679856 (B.Z.); +86-15797865372 (Z.H.)
| |
Collapse
|
4
|
Rabie AM. Potent Inhibitory Activities of the Adenosine Analogue Cordycepin on SARS-CoV-2 Replication. ACS OMEGA 2022; 7:2960-2969. [PMID: 35071937 PMCID: PMC8767658 DOI: 10.1021/acsomega.1c05998] [Citation(s) in RCA: 52] [Impact Index Per Article: 26.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/26/2021] [Accepted: 12/14/2021] [Indexed: 01/18/2023]
Abstract
![]()
Nucleoside analogues
are among the most successful bioactive classes
of druglike compounds in pharmaceutical chemistry as they are well-known
for their numerous effective bioactivities in humans, especially as
antiviral and anticancer agents. Coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19)
is still untreatable, with its causing virus, the severe acute respiratory
syndrome coronavirus 2 (SARS-CoV-2), continuing to wreak havoc on
the ground everywhere. This complicated international situation urged
all concerned scientists, including medicinal chemists and drug discoverers,
to search for a potent anti-COVID-19 drug. Cordycepin (3′-deoxyadenosine)
is a known natural adenosine analogue of fungal origin, which could
also be synthetically produced. This bioactive phytochemical compound
is characterized by several proven strong pharmacological actions
that may effectively contribute to the comprehensive treatment of
COVID-19, with the antiviral activities being the leading ones. Some
new studies predicted the possible inhibitory affinities of cordycepin
against the principal SARS-CoV-2 protein targets (e.g., SARS-CoV-2 spike (S) protein, main protease (Mpro) enzyme,
and RNA-dependent RNA polymerase (RdRp) enzyme) based on the computational
approach. Interestingly, the current research showed, for the first
time, that cordycepin is able to potently inhibit the multiplication
of the new resistant strains of SARS-CoV-2 with a very minute in vitro anti-SARS-CoV-2 EC50 of about 2 μM,
edging over both remdesivir and its active metabolite GS-441524. The
ideal pharmacophoric features of the cordycepin molecule render it
a typical inhibitor of SARS-CoV-2 replication, with its flexible structure
open for most types of derivatization in the future. Briefly, the
current findings further support and suggest the repurposing possibility
of cordycepin against COVID-19 and greatly encourage us to confidently
and rapidly begin its preclinical/clinical evaluations for the comprehensive
treatment of COVID-19.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Amgad M. Rabie
- Dr. Amgad Rabie’s Research Lab. for Drug Discovery (DARLD), Mansoura 35511, Egypt
- Pharmaceutical Organic Chemistry Department, Faculty of Pharmacy, Mansoura University, Mansoura 35516, Egypt
| |
Collapse
|
5
|
Bibi S, Hasan MM, Wang YB, Papadakos SP, Yu H. Cordycepin as a Promising Inhibitor of SARS-CoV-2 RNA dependent RNA polymerase (RdRp). Curr Med Chem 2021; 29:152-162. [PMID: 34420502 DOI: 10.2174/0929867328666210820114025] [Citation(s) in RCA: 23] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/01/2021] [Revised: 06/21/2021] [Accepted: 06/28/2021] [Indexed: 11/22/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND SARS-CoV-2, which emerged in Wuhan, China, is a new global threat that has killed millions of people and continues to do so. This pandemic has not only threatened human life but has also triggered economic downturns across the world. Researchers have made significant strides in discovering molecular insights into SARS-CoV-2 pathogenesis and developing vaccines, but there is still no successful cure for SARS-CoV-2 infected patients. OBJECTIVE The present study has proposed a drug-repositioning pipeline for the design and discovery of an effective fungal-derived bioactive metabolite as a drug candidate against SARS-CoV-2. METHODS Fungal derivative "Cordycepin" was selected for this study to investigate the inhibitory properties against RNA-dependent RNA polymerase (RdRp) (PDB ID: 6M71) of SARS-CoV-2. The pharmacological profile, intermolecular interactions, binding energy, and stability of the compound were determined utilizing cheminformatic approaches. Subsequently, molecular dynamic simulation was performed to better understand the binding mechanism of cordycepin to RdRp. RESULTS The pharmacological data and retrieved molecular dynamics simulations trajectories suggest excellent drug-likeliness and greater structural stability of cordycepin, while the catalytic residues (Asp760, Asp761), as well as other active site residues (Trp617, Asp618, Tyr619, Trp800, Glu811) of RdRp, showed better stability during the overall simulation span. CONCLUSION Promising results of pharmacological investigation along with molecular simulations revealed that cordycepin exhibited strong inhibitory potential against SARS-CoV-2 polymerase enzyme (RdRp). Hence, cordycepin should be highly recommended to test in a laboratory to confirm its inhibitory potential against the SARS-CoV-2 polymerase enzyme (RdRp).
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Shabana Bibi
- Yunnan Herbal Laboratory, College of Ecology and Environmental Sciences, Yunnan University, Kunming 650091, Yunnan. China
| | - Mohammad Mehedi Hasan
- Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, Faculty of Life Science, Mawlana Bhashani Science and Technology University, Tangail 1902. Bangladesh
| | - Yuan-Bing Wang
- Yunnan Herbal Laboratory, College of Ecology and Environmental Sciences, Yunnan University, Kunming 650091, Yunnan. China
| | - Stavros P Papadakos
- First Department of Pathology, School of Medicine, National and Kapodistrian University of Athens (NKUA), Athens. Greece
| | - Hong Yu
- Yunnan Herbal Laboratory, College of Ecology and Environmental Sciences, Yunnan University, Kunming 650091, Yunnan. China
| |
Collapse
|
6
|
Cordycepin Inhibits Virus Replication in Dengue Virus-Infected Vero Cells. Molecules 2021; 26:molecules26113118. [PMID: 34071102 PMCID: PMC8197141 DOI: 10.3390/molecules26113118] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/28/2021] [Revised: 05/18/2021] [Accepted: 05/19/2021] [Indexed: 12/11/2022] Open
Abstract
Dengue virus (DENV) infection causes mild to severe illness in humans that can lead to fatality in severe cases. Currently, no specific drug is available for the treatment of DENV infection. Thus, the development of an anti-DENV drug is urgently required. Cordycepin (3′-deoxyadenosine), which is a major bioactive compound in Cordyceps (ascomycete) fungus that has been used for centuries in Chinese traditional medicine, was reported to exhibit antiviral activity. However, the anti-DENV activity of cordycepin is unknown. We hypothesized that cordycepin exerts anti-DENV activity and that, as an adenosine derivative, it inhibits DENV replication. To test this hypothesis, we investigated the anti-DENV activity of cordycepin in DENV-infected Vero cells. Cordycepin treatment significantly decreased DENV protein at a half-maximal effective concentration (EC50) of 26.94 μM. Moreover, DENV RNA was dramatically decreased in cordycepin-treated Vero cells, indicating its effectiveness in inhibiting viral RNA replication. Via in silico molecular docking, the binding of cordycepin to DENV non-structural protein 5 (NS5), which is an important enzyme for RNA synthesis, at both the methyltransferase (MTase) and RNA-dependent RNA polymerase (RdRp) domains, was predicted. The results of this study demonstrate that cordycepin is able to inhibit DENV replication, which portends its potential as an anti-dengue therapy.
Collapse
|
7
|
Limanaqi F, Busceti CL, Biagioni F, Lazzeri G, Forte M, Schiavon S, Sciarretta S, Frati G, Fornai F. Cell Clearing Systems as Targets of Polyphenols in Viral Infections: Potential Implications for COVID-19 Pathogenesis. Antioxidants (Basel) 2020; 9:antiox9111105. [PMID: 33182802 PMCID: PMC7697279 DOI: 10.3390/antiox9111105] [Citation(s) in RCA: 30] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/04/2020] [Revised: 10/29/2020] [Accepted: 11/08/2020] [Indexed: 02/06/2023] Open
Abstract
The novel coronavirus named severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2 (SARS-CoV-2) has generated the ongoing coronavirus disease-2019 (COVID-19) pandemic, still with an uncertain outcome. Besides pneumonia and acute lung injury (ALI) or acute respiratory distress syndrome (ARDS), other features became evident in the context of COVID-19. These includes endothelial and coagulation dysfunction with disseminated intravascular coagulation (DIC), and multiple organ dysfunction syndrome (MODS), along with the occurrence of neurological alterations. The multi-system nature of such viral infection is a witness to the exploitation and impairment of ubiquitous subcellular and metabolic pathways for the sake of its life-cycle, ranging from host cell invasion, replication, transmission, up to a cytopathic effect and overt systemic inflammation. In this frame, alterations in cell-clearing systems of the host are emerging as a hallmark in the pathogenesis of various respiratory viruses, including SARS-CoV-2. Indeed, exploitation of the autophagy and proteasome pathways might contribute not only to the replication of the virus at the site of infection but also to the spreading of either mature virions or inflammatory mediators at both cellular and multisystem levels. In this frame, besides a pharmacological therapy, many researchers are wondering if some non-pharmacological substances might counteract or positively modulate the course of the infection. The pharmacological properties of natural compounds have gained increasing attention in the field of alternative and adjunct therapeutic approaches to several diseases. In particular, several naturally-occurring herbal compounds (mostly polyphenols) are reported to produce widespread antiviral, anti-inflammatory, and anti-oxidant effects while acting as autophagy and (immuno)-proteasome modulators. This article attempts to bridge the perturbation of autophagy and proteasome pathways with the potentially beneficial effects of specific phytochemicals and flavonoids in viral infections, with a focus on the multisystem SARS-CoV-2 infection.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Fiona Limanaqi
- Department of Translational Research and New Technologies in Medicine and Surgery, University of Pisa, Via Roma 55, 56126 Pisa, Italy; (F.L.); (G.L.)
| | - Carla Letizia Busceti
- I.R.C.C.S. Neuromed Pozzilli, Via Atinense, 18, 86077 Pozzilli, Italy (F.B.); (M.F.); (S.S.); (G.F.)
| | - Francesca Biagioni
- I.R.C.C.S. Neuromed Pozzilli, Via Atinense, 18, 86077 Pozzilli, Italy (F.B.); (M.F.); (S.S.); (G.F.)
| | - Gloria Lazzeri
- Department of Translational Research and New Technologies in Medicine and Surgery, University of Pisa, Via Roma 55, 56126 Pisa, Italy; (F.L.); (G.L.)
| | - Maurizio Forte
- I.R.C.C.S. Neuromed Pozzilli, Via Atinense, 18, 86077 Pozzilli, Italy (F.B.); (M.F.); (S.S.); (G.F.)
| | - Sonia Schiavon
- Department of Medico-Surgical Sciences and Biotechnologies, Sapienza University of Rome, Corso della Repubblica 79, 40100 Latina, Italy;
| | - Sebastiano Sciarretta
- I.R.C.C.S. Neuromed Pozzilli, Via Atinense, 18, 86077 Pozzilli, Italy (F.B.); (M.F.); (S.S.); (G.F.)
- Department of Medico-Surgical Sciences and Biotechnologies, Sapienza University of Rome, Corso della Repubblica 79, 40100 Latina, Italy;
| | - Giacomo Frati
- I.R.C.C.S. Neuromed Pozzilli, Via Atinense, 18, 86077 Pozzilli, Italy (F.B.); (M.F.); (S.S.); (G.F.)
- Department of Medico-Surgical Sciences and Biotechnologies, Sapienza University of Rome, Corso della Repubblica 79, 40100 Latina, Italy;
| | - Francesco Fornai
- Department of Translational Research and New Technologies in Medicine and Surgery, University of Pisa, Via Roma 55, 56126 Pisa, Italy; (F.L.); (G.L.)
- I.R.C.C.S. Neuromed Pozzilli, Via Atinense, 18, 86077 Pozzilli, Italy (F.B.); (M.F.); (S.S.); (G.F.)
- Correspondence: or
| |
Collapse
|
8
|
Ching KC, F P Ng L, Chai CLL. A compendium of small molecule direct-acting and host-targeting inhibitors as therapies against alphaviruses. J Antimicrob Chemother 2018; 72:2973-2989. [PMID: 28981632 PMCID: PMC7110243 DOI: 10.1093/jac/dkx224] [Citation(s) in RCA: 16] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/11/2022] Open
Abstract
Alphaviruses were amongst the first arboviruses to be isolated, characterized and assigned a taxonomic status. They are globally widespread, infecting a large variety of terrestrial animals, birds, insects and even fish. Moreover, they are capable of surviving and circulating in both sylvatic and urban environments, causing considerable human morbidity and mortality. The re-emergence of Chikungunya virus (CHIKV) in almost every part of the world has caused alarm to many health agencies throughout the world. The mosquito vector for this virus, Aedes, is globally distributed in tropical and temperate regions and capable of thriving in both rural and urban landscapes, giving the opportunity for CHIKV to continue expanding into new geographical regions. Despite the importance of alphaviruses as human pathogens, there is currently no targeted antiviral treatment available for alphavirus infection. This mini-review discusses some of the major features in the replication cycle of alphaviruses, highlighting the key viral targets and host components that participate in alphavirus replication and the molecular functions that were used in drug design. Together with describing the importance of these targets, we review the various direct-acting and host-targeting inhibitors, specifically small molecules that have been discovered and developed as potential therapeutics as well as their reported in vitro and in vivo efficacies.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Kuan-Chieh Ching
- NUS Graduate School for Integrative Sciences and Engineering, Centre for Life Sciences, #05-01, 28 Medical Drive, Singapore 117456.,Department of Pharmacy, Faculty of Science, National University of Singapore, Block S4A, Level 3, 18 Science Drive 4, Singapore 117543
| | - Lisa F P Ng
- Singapore Immunology Network, A*STAR, 8A Biomedical Grove, Immunos Building, #04-06, Singapore 138648.,Department of Biochemistry, Yong Loo Lin School of Medicine, National University of Singapore, Block MD6, Centre for Translational Medicine, 14 Medical Drive, #14-01T, Singapore 117599.,Institute of Infection and Global Health, University of Liverpool, Ronald Ross Building, 8 West Derby Street, Liverpool L697BE, UK
| | - Christina L L Chai
- NUS Graduate School for Integrative Sciences and Engineering, Centre for Life Sciences, #05-01, 28 Medical Drive, Singapore 117456.,Department of Pharmacy, Faculty of Science, National University of Singapore, Block S4A, Level 3, 18 Science Drive 4, Singapore 117543
| |
Collapse
|
9
|
Feng L, Chen X, Zhang XL, Wang CM, Wang G. Cordyceps sinensis combined with duloxetine improves sleep symptoms in patients with depression: a randomized, double-blind, placebo-controlled study. ACTA ACUST UNITED AC 2018. [DOI: 10.4103/2542-3932.245217] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/10/2023]
|
10
|
Ryu E, Son M, Lee M, Lee K, Cho JY, Cho S, Lee SK, Lee YM, Cho H, Sung GH, Kang H. Cordycepin is a novel chemical suppressor of Epstein-Barr virus replication. Oncoscience 2014; 1:866-881. [PMID: 25621301 PMCID: PMC4303894 DOI: 10.18632/oncoscience.110] [Citation(s) in RCA: 34] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/27/2014] [Accepted: 12/14/2014] [Indexed: 12/12/2022] Open
Abstract
Cordyceps species are known to produce numerous active components and are used for diverse medicinal purposes because of their varied physiological activities, including their ability to protect the liver from damage as well as their anticancer, antidepressant, anti-inflammatory, hypoglycemic, antimicrobial effects. Cordycepin, an adenosine derivative, differs from adenosine in that its ribose lacks an oxygen atom at the 3′ position. Several research groups have reported that cordycepin has antiviral activity against several viruses including influenza virus, plant viruses, human immunodeficiency virus(HIV), murine leukemia virus, and Epstein-Barr virus (EBV). In this study, we identify the epigenetic mechanisms by which cordycepin exerts its anti-gammaherpesvirus effects. We show that cordycepin possesses antitumor and antiviral activity against gastric carcinoma and EBV, respectively. A comparison of the CD50 values of cordycepin and its analogs showed that the lack of a 2′-hydroxyl group in cordycepin was critical for its relatively potent cytotoxicity. Cordycepin treatment decreased the rate of early apoptosis in SNU719 cells by up to 64%, but increased late apoptosis/necrosis by up to 31%. Interestingly, cordycepin increased BCL7A methylation in SNU719 cells by up to 58% and decreased demethylation by up to 37%. Consistent with these changes in methylation, cordycepin treatment significantly downregulated most EBV genes tested. Under the same conditions, cordycepin significantly decreased the frequency of Q and F promoter usage, and H3K4me3 histone enrichment was significantly reduced at several important EBV genomic loci. Extracellular and intracellular EBV genome copy numbers were reduced by up to 55% and 30%, respectively, in response to 125 μM cordycepin treatment. Finally, cordycepin significantly suppressed the transfer of EBV from LCL-EBV-GFP to AGS cells, indicating that EBV infection of gastric epithelial cells was inhibited. These results suggest that cordycepin has antiviral and antitumor activities against gammaherpesviruses and host cells latently infected with virus.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Eunhyun Ryu
- College of Pharmacy and Institute of microorganisms, Kyungpook National University, Daegu, Republic of Korea
| | - Myoungki Son
- College of Pharmacy and Institute of microorganisms, Kyungpook National University, Daegu, Republic of Korea
| | - Minjung Lee
- College of Pharmacy and Institute of microorganisms, Kyungpook National University, Daegu, Republic of Korea
| | - Kanghyo Lee
- Mushroom Research Division, National Institute of Horticultural and Herbal Science, Rural Development Administration, Eumseong, Republic of Korea
| | - Jae Youl Cho
- Department of Genetic Engineering, Sungkyunkwan University, Suwon, Republic of Korea
| | - Sungchan Cho
- Targeted Medicine Research Center, Korea Research Institute of Bioscience and Biotechnology, Cheongwon, Chungbuk, Republic of Korea
| | - Suk Kyeong Lee
- Research Institute of Immunobiology, Department of Biomedical Sciences, College of Medicine, The Catholic University of Korea, Seoul, Republic of Korea
| | - You Mie Lee
- College of Pharmacy and Institute of microorganisms, Kyungpook National University, Daegu, Republic of Korea
| | - Hyosun Cho
- College of Pharmacy, Duksung Women's University, Seoul, Republic of Korea
| | - Gi-Ho Sung
- Institute for Bio-Medical Convergence, International St. Mary's Hospital, College of Medicine, Catholic Kwangdong University, Incheon, Republic of Korea
| | - Hyojeung Kang
- College of Pharmacy and Institute of microorganisms, Kyungpook National University, Daegu, Republic of Korea
| |
Collapse
|
11
|
White JL, Dawson WO. Effect of cordycepin triphosphate on in vitro RNA synthesis by plant viral replicases. J Virol 2010; 29:811-4. [PMID: 16789174 PMCID: PMC353220 DOI: 10.1128/jvi.29.2.811-814.1979] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/20/2022] Open
Abstract
In vitro RNA synthesis by tobacco mosaic virus and cowpea chlorotic mottle virus replicase were inhibited by cordycepin triphosphate. Inhibition could be overcome with higher concentrations of ATP in assay mixtures but not with UTP. Products synthesized in vitro by tobacco mosaic virus RNA replicase in the presence of inhibitor revealed replicative form but not replicative intermediate RNAs. These results suggest that cordycepin triphosphate competes specifically with ATP and results in premature termination of viral RNA synthesis in vitro.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- J L White
- Department of Plant Pathology, University of California, Riverside, California 92521
| | | |
Collapse
|
12
|
|
13
|
Lee PW, Paucha E, Colter JS. Identification and partial characterization of a new (50 S) subviral particle in Mengo virus-infected L cells. Virology 1978; 85:286-95. [PMID: 206009 DOI: 10.1016/0042-6822(78)90432-4] [Citation(s) in RCA: 12] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/13/2022]
|
14
|
Wittek R, Koblet H, Menna A, Wyler R. The effect of cordycepin on the multiplication of Semliki Forest virus and on polyadenylation of viral RNA. Arch Virol 1977; 54:95-106. [PMID: 302113 DOI: 10.1007/bf01314382] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/14/2022]
Abstract
Cordycepin (3'-deoxyadenosine), at a concentration of 20 microgram/ml, has a marked effect on Semliki Forest virus multiplication. The appearance of plaque forming units is delayed by about 2 hours and the yield greatly reduced. The incorporation of [3H] uridine into intracellular viral RNAs reaches less than 50 per cent of controls. However, no specific effect on poly (A) synthesis could be detected. The binding efficiency of viral RNAs on nitrocellulose membranes and poly (U) sepharose is not affected by cordycepin. The average poly (A) length of total intracellular viral RNA was calculated on the basis of the ratio of the radioactivity of adenosine-monophosphate: adenosine and found to be about 35 nucleotides in treated and untreated cells.
Collapse
|
15
|
Hashimoto K, Simizu B. Effect of cordycepin on the replication of western equine encephalitis virus. Arch Virol 1976; 52:341-5. [PMID: 1087872 DOI: 10.1007/bf01315623] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/25/2022]
Abstract
Cordycepin (3'-deoxyadenosine) inhibited viral RNA synthesis in the replication of western equine encephalitis virus, thereby causing a reduction of virus production. The rate of inhibition of viral RNA synthesis was dependent on drug concentration and the period of treatment with the drug. These results suggest that the virus RNA synthesizing system is sensitive to the drug.
Collapse
|
16
|
Pridgen CL. Influenza virus RNA's in the cytoplasm of chicken embryo cells treated with 3'-deoxyadenosine. J Virol 1976; 18:356-60. [PMID: 943576 PMCID: PMC515554 DOI: 10.1128/jvi.18.1.356-360.1976] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/25/2022] Open
Abstract
3'-Deoxyadenosine (75 to 100 mug/ml) permitted analysis of the cytoplasmic influencza virus-specific RNAs synthesized early in the replicative cycle-a phase that has hitherto been obscurred by host cell RNA synthesis. In addition, late in the cycle (6 to 8) complementary virus-specific RNA's were the predominantly labeled species, suggesting that higher concentrations of 3'-deoxyadenosine selectively inhibit influenza viral genome replication.
Collapse
|
17
|
Weiss SR, Bratt MA. Effect of cordycepin (3'-deoxyadenosine) on virus-specific RNA species synthesized in Newcastle disease virus-infected cells. J Virol 1975; 16:1575-83. [PMID: 1081601 PMCID: PMC355766 DOI: 10.1128/jvi.16.6.1575-1583.1975] [Citation(s) in RCA: 17] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/25/2022] Open
Abstract
Cordycepin (3'-deoxyadenosine) has no effect on the size or relative proportions of Newcastle disease virus-specific 18-22S mRNA species nor on the amount or size of the polyadenylic acid associated with them. Cordycepin does, however, cause an inhibition of incorporation of [3H]uridine into 50S virus-specific RNA relative to 18-22S RNA. This inhibition is probably not a direct effect of the drug on the synthesis of 50S viral RNA. Like cycloheximide, another drug which inhibits 50S RNA accumulation in paramyxovirus-infected cells, cordycepin inhibits protein synthesis as measured by amino acid incorporation. It is likely that the inhibition of 50S RNA accumulation is a secondary effect of protein synthesis inhibition. This is supported by the finding that concentrations of cordycepin and cycloheximide, which inhibit protein synthesis to the same extent, have the same effect on the ratio of 50 to 18-22S virus-specific RNA.
Collapse
|
18
|
Pasternak J, Leushner JRA. Programmed collagen synthesis during postembryon development of the nematodePanagrellus silusiae: effect of transcription and translation inhibitors. ACTA ACUST UNITED AC 1975. [DOI: 10.1002/jez.1401940308] [Citation(s) in RCA: 12] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/07/2022]
|
19
|
Schluederberg A, Chavanich S. The role of the nucleus in measles virus replication. Med Microbiol Immunol 1974; 160:85-90. [PMID: 4548489 DOI: 10.1007/bf02121715] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/11/2023]
|
20
|
|
21
|
Abstract
Vesicular stomatitis virus (VSV) mRNA isolated from infected cell polysomes contains polyadenylic acid [poly(A)] sequences. Detergent-activated purified virions in vitro can transcribe complementary RNA, which has sedimentation properties similar to mRNA, and this RNA also contains poly(A) sequences. Digestion of virion RNA with U2 RNase under conditions where hydrolysis is specific for purine linkages leaves no sequences of polyuridylic acid corresponding in length to the poly(A) on the transcripts. Growth of infectious virus is not inhibited by 3-deoxyadenosine (cordycepin) under conditions in which it inhibits polyadenylation of cellular mRNA. The virus-specific mRNA produced in the presence of cordycepin has poly(A) sequences of the same size distribution as that synthesized in the absence of cordycepin.
Collapse
|
22
|
Carter C, Black FL, Schluederberg A. Nucleus-associated RNA in measles virus-infected cells. Biochem Biophys Res Commun 1973; 54:411-6. [PMID: 4200399 DOI: 10.1016/0006-291x(73)90937-6] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/09/2023]
|