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Finkina EI, Shevchenko OV, Fateeva SI, Tagaev AA, Ovchinnikova TV. Antifungal Plant Defensins as an Alternative Tool to Combat Candidiasis. PLANTS (BASEL, SWITZERLAND) 2024; 13:1499. [PMID: 38891308 PMCID: PMC11174490 DOI: 10.3390/plants13111499] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/24/2024] [Revised: 05/26/2024] [Accepted: 05/27/2024] [Indexed: 06/21/2024]
Abstract
Currently, the spread of fungal infections is becoming an urgent problem. Fungi of the Candida genus are opportunistic microorganisms that cause superficial and life-threatening systemic candidiasis in immunocompromised patients. The list of antifungal drugs for the treatment of candidiasis is very limited, while the prevalence of resistant strains is growing rapidly. Therefore, the search for new antimycotics, including those exhibiting immunomodulatory properties, is of great importance. Plenty of natural compounds with antifungal activities may be extremely useful in solving this problem. This review evaluates the features of natural antimicrobial peptides, namely plant defensins as possible prototypes of new anticandidal agents. Plant defensins are important components of the innate immune system, which provides the first line of defense against pathogens. The introduction presents a brief summary regarding pathogenic Candida species, the pathogenesis of candidiasis, and the mechanisms of antimycotic resistance. Then, the structural features of plant defensins, their anticandidal activities, their mechanisms of action on yeast-like fungi, their ability to prevent adhesion and biofilm formation, and their combined action with conventional antimycotics are described. The possible mechanisms of fungal resistance to plant defensins, their cytotoxic activity, and their effectiveness in in vivo experiments are also discussed. In addition, for the first time for plant defensins, knowledge about their immunomodulatory effects is also presented.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ekaterina I. Finkina
- M. M. Shemyakin & Yu. A. Ovchinnikov Institute of Bioorganic Chemistry, The Russian Academy of Sciences, Miklukho-Maklaya Str. 16/10, 117997 Moscow, Russia (T.V.O.)
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2
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Cavaco M, Pérez-Peinado C, Valle J, Silva RDM, Gano L, Correia JDG, Andreu D, Castanho MARB, Neves V. The use of a selective, nontoxic dual-acting peptide for breast cancer patients with brain metastasis. Biomed Pharmacother 2024; 174:116573. [PMID: 38613996 DOI: 10.1016/j.biopha.2024.116573] [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: 01/18/2024] [Revised: 03/22/2024] [Accepted: 04/04/2024] [Indexed: 04/15/2024] Open
Abstract
Triple-negative breast cancer (TNBC) is an aggressive subtype characterized by the absence of commonly targeted receptors. Unspecific chemotherapy is currently the main therapeutic option, with poor results. Another major challenge is the frequent appearance of brain metastasis (BM) associated with a significant decrease in patient overall survival. The treatment of BM is even more challenging due to the presence of the blood-brain barrier (BBB). Here, we present a dual-acting peptide (PepH3-vCPP2319) designed to tackle TNBC/BM, in which a TNBC-specific anticancer peptide (ACP) motif (vCPP2319) is joined to a BBB peptide shuttle (BBBpS) motif (PepH3). PepH3-vCPP2319 demonstrated selectivity and efficiency in eliminating TNBC both in monolayers (IC50≈5.0 µM) and in spheroids (IC50≈25.0 µM), with no stringent toxicity toward noncancerous cell lines and red blood cells (RBCs). PepH3-vCPP2319 was also able to cross the BBB in vitro and penetrate the brain in vivo, and was stable in serum with a half-life above 120 min. Tumor cell-peptide interaction is fast, with quick peptide internalization via clathrin-mediated endocytosis without membrane disruption. Upon internalization, the peptide is detected in the nucleus and the cytoplasm, indicating a multi-targeted mechanism of action that ultimately induces irreversible cell damage and apoptosis. In conclusion, we have designed a dual-acting peptide capable of brain penetration and TNBC cell elimination, thus expanding the drug arsenal to fight this BC subtype and its BM.
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Affiliation(s)
- Marco Cavaco
- Instituto de Medicina Molecular, Faculdade de Medicina, Universidade de Lisboa, Avenida Professor Egas Moniz, 1649-028, Lisboa, Portugal; Proteomics and Protein Chemistry Unit, Department of Medicine and Life Sciences, Pompeu Fabra University, Dr. Aiguader 88, Barcelona Biomedical Research Park, Barcelona 08003, Spain
| | - Clara Pérez-Peinado
- Proteomics and Protein Chemistry Unit, Department of Medicine and Life Sciences, Pompeu Fabra University, Dr. Aiguader 88, Barcelona Biomedical Research Park, Barcelona 08003, Spain
| | - Javier Valle
- Proteomics and Protein Chemistry Unit, Department of Medicine and Life Sciences, Pompeu Fabra University, Dr. Aiguader 88, Barcelona Biomedical Research Park, Barcelona 08003, Spain
| | - Ruben D M Silva
- Centro de Ciências e Tecnologias Nucleares, Instituto Superior Técnico, Universidade de Lisboa, CTN, Estrada Nacional 10 (km 139,7), LRS, Bobadela 2695-066, Portugal
| | - Lurdes Gano
- Centro de Ciências e Tecnologias Nucleares, Instituto Superior Técnico, Universidade de Lisboa, CTN, Estrada Nacional 10 (km 139,7), LRS, Bobadela 2695-066, Portugal; Departamento de Engenharia e Ciências Nucleares, Instituto Superior Técnico, Universidade de Lisboa, CTN, Estrada Nacional 10 (km 139,7), LRS, Bobadela 2695-066, Portugal
| | - João D G Correia
- Centro de Ciências e Tecnologias Nucleares, Instituto Superior Técnico, Universidade de Lisboa, CTN, Estrada Nacional 10 (km 139,7), LRS, Bobadela 2695-066, Portugal; Departamento de Engenharia e Ciências Nucleares, Instituto Superior Técnico, Universidade de Lisboa, CTN, Estrada Nacional 10 (km 139,7), LRS, Bobadela 2695-066, Portugal
| | - David Andreu
- Proteomics and Protein Chemistry Unit, Department of Medicine and Life Sciences, Pompeu Fabra University, Dr. Aiguader 88, Barcelona Biomedical Research Park, Barcelona 08003, Spain.
| | - Miguel A R B Castanho
- Instituto de Medicina Molecular, Faculdade de Medicina, Universidade de Lisboa, Avenida Professor Egas Moniz, 1649-028, Lisboa, Portugal.
| | - Vera Neves
- Instituto de Medicina Molecular, Faculdade de Medicina, Universidade de Lisboa, Avenida Professor Egas Moniz, 1649-028, Lisboa, Portugal.
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3
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Role of Defensins in Tumor Biology. Int J Mol Sci 2023; 24:ijms24065268. [PMID: 36982340 PMCID: PMC10049535 DOI: 10.3390/ijms24065268] [Citation(s) in RCA: 13] [Impact Index Per Article: 13.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/31/2023] [Revised: 03/02/2023] [Accepted: 03/04/2023] [Indexed: 03/12/2023] Open
Abstract
Defensins have long been considered as merely antimicrobial peptides. Throughout the years, more immune-related functions have been discovered for both the α-defensin and β-defensin subfamily. This review provides insights into the role of defensins in tumor immunity. Since defensins are present and differentially expressed in certain cancer types, researchers started to unravel their role in the tumor microenvironment. The human neutrophil peptides have been demonstrated to be directly oncolytic by permealizing the cell membrane. Further, defensins can inflict DNA damage and induce apoptosis of tumor cells. In the tumor microenvironment, defensins can act as chemoattractants for subsets of immune cells, such as T cells, immature dendritic cells, monocytes and mast cells. Additionally, by activating the targeted leukocytes, defensins generate pro-inflammatory signals. Moreover, immuno-adjuvant effects have been reported in a variety of models. Therefore, the action of defensins reaches beyond their direct antimicrobial effect, i.e., the lysis of microbes invading the mucosal surfaces. By causing an increase in pro-inflammatory signaling events, cell lysis (generating antigens) and attraction and activation of antigen presenting cells, defensins could have a relevant role in activating the adaptive immune system and generating anti-tumor immunity, and could thus contribute to the success of immune therapy.
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4
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Teixeira ID, Carvalho E, Leal EC. Green Antimicrobials as Therapeutic Agents for Diabetic Foot Ulcers. Antibiotics (Basel) 2023; 12:467. [PMID: 36978333 PMCID: PMC10044531 DOI: 10.3390/antibiotics12030467] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/08/2023] [Revised: 02/22/2023] [Accepted: 02/23/2023] [Indexed: 03/02/2023] Open
Abstract
Diabetic foot ulcers (DFU) are one of the most serious and devastating complications of diabetes and account for a significant decrease in quality of life and costly healthcare expenses worldwide. This condition affects around 15% of diabetic patients and is one of the leading causes of lower limb amputations. DFUs generally present poor clinical outcomes, mainly due to the impaired healing process and the elevated risk of microbial infections which leads to tissue damage. Nowadays, antimicrobial resistance poses a rising threat to global health, thus hampering DFU treatment and care. Faced with this reality, it is pivotal to find greener and less environmentally impactful alternatives for fighting these resistant microbes. Antimicrobial peptides are small molecules that play a crucial role in the innate immune system of the host and can be found in nature. Some of these molecules have shown broad-spectrum antimicrobial properties and wound-healing activity, making them good potential therapeutic compounds to treat DFUs. This review aims to describe antimicrobial peptides derived from green, eco-friendly processes that can be used as potential therapeutic compounds to treat DFUs, thereby granting a better quality of life to patients and their families while protecting our fundamental bio-resources.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ines D. Teixeira
- Center for Neuroscience and Cell Biology, Center for Innovative Biomedicine and Biotechnology, University of Coimbra, Rua Larga, 3004-504 Coimbra, Portugal
| | - Eugenia Carvalho
- Center for Neuroscience and Cell Biology, Center for Innovative Biomedicine and Biotechnology, University of Coimbra, Rua Larga, 3004-504 Coimbra, Portugal
- Institute for Interdisciplinary Research, University of Coimbra, 3004-504 Coimbra, Portugal
| | - Ermelindo C. Leal
- Center for Neuroscience and Cell Biology, Center for Innovative Biomedicine and Biotechnology, University of Coimbra, Rua Larga, 3004-504 Coimbra, Portugal
- Institute for Interdisciplinary Research, University of Coimbra, 3004-504 Coimbra, Portugal
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5
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Overview of Host Defense Peptides with Promising Anti-Breast Cancer Activity. SERBIAN JOURNAL OF EXPERIMENTAL AND CLINICAL RESEARCH 2022. [DOI: 10.2478/sjecr-2021-0052] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/20/2022] Open
Abstract
Abstract
Breast cancer is the leading cause of death among women worldwide. The main limitations of conventional anti-cancer therapy, including breast cancer treatment, are side effects and the development of resistance to chemotherapeutics. Host defense peptides (HDPs) are bioactive compounds of innate immunity isolated from almost all living organisms, which exhibit wide range of biological activities. This review focuses on the anti-cancer effects of HDPs and their therapeutic potential against breast cancer. Numerous HDPs from different sources, including mammalian and amphibian origin, and their chemically modified analogues, exert the spectrum of anti-cancer activities. These effects include direct disruption of cancer cell membrane, induction of apoptosis, inhibition of angiogenesis and cancer cell proliferation, but also the modulation of anti-cancer immune response. Selected examples of HDPs of different origin and their anti-breast cancer capacities have been reviewed. Conclusively, due to their anti-cancer effects accompanied by substantial selectivity for cancer cells and low toxicity for normal cells, HDPs have been widely recognized as possible therapeutic agents.
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6
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Oliveira FD, Cavaco M, Figueira TN, Valle J, Neves V, Andreu D, Gaspar D, Castanho MARB. The antimetastatic breast cancer activity of the viral protein-derived peptide vCPP2319 as revealed by cellular biomechanics. FEBS J 2022; 289:1603-1624. [PMID: 34679257 PMCID: PMC9298314 DOI: 10.1111/febs.16247] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/07/2020] [Revised: 09/15/2021] [Accepted: 10/21/2021] [Indexed: 12/24/2022]
Abstract
The incidence of metastatic breast cancer (MBC) is increasing and the therapeutic arsenal available to fight it is insufficient. Brain metastases, in particular, represent a major challenge for chemotherapy as the impermeable nature of the blood-brain barrier (BBB) prevents most drugs from targeting cells in the brain. For their ability to transpose biological membranes and transport a broad spectrum of bioactive cargoes, cell-penetrating peptides (CPPs) have been hailed as ideal candidates to deliver drugs across biological barriers. A more ambitious approach is to have the CPP as a drug itself, capable of both killing cancer cells and interacting with the blood/brain interface, therefore blocking the onset of brain metastases. vCPP2319, a viral protein-derived CPP, has both properties as it: (a) is selective toward human breast cancer cells (MDA-MB-231) and increases cell stiffness compared to breast epithelial cells (MCF 10A) hindering the progression of metastases; and (b) adsorbs at the surface of human brain endothelial cells potentially counteracting metastatic cells from reaching the brain. Overall, the results reveal the selective anticancer activity of the peptide vCPP2319, which is also able to reside at the blood-brain interface, therefore counteracting brain penetration by metastatic cancer cells.
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Affiliation(s)
- Filipa D. Oliveira
- Instituto de Medicina MolecularFaculdade de Medicina da Universidade de LisboaPortugal
| | - Marco Cavaco
- Instituto de Medicina MolecularFaculdade de Medicina da Universidade de LisboaPortugal
| | - Tiago N. Figueira
- Instituto de Medicina MolecularFaculdade de Medicina da Universidade de LisboaPortugal
| | - Javier Valle
- Department of Experimental and Health SciencesBarcelona Biomedical Research ParkPompeu Fabra UniversityBarcelonaSpain
| | - Vera Neves
- Instituto de Medicina MolecularFaculdade de Medicina da Universidade de LisboaPortugal
| | - David Andreu
- Department of Experimental and Health SciencesBarcelona Biomedical Research ParkPompeu Fabra UniversityBarcelonaSpain
| | - Diana Gaspar
- Instituto de Medicina MolecularFaculdade de Medicina da Universidade de LisboaPortugal
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7
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Hein MJA, Kvansakul M, Lay FT, Phan TK, Hulett MD. Defensin-lipid interactions in membrane targeting: mechanisms of action and opportunities for the development of antimicrobial and anticancer therapeutics. Biochem Soc Trans 2022; 50:423-437. [PMID: 35015081 PMCID: PMC9022979 DOI: 10.1042/bst20200884] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/30/2021] [Revised: 11/29/2021] [Accepted: 12/21/2021] [Indexed: 12/21/2022]
Abstract
Defensins are a class of host defence peptides (HDPs) that often harbour antimicrobial and anticancer activities, making them attractive candidates as novel therapeutics. In comparison with current antimicrobial and cancer treatments, defensins uniquely target specific membrane lipids via mechanisms distinct from other HDPs. Therefore, defensins could be potentially developed as therapeutics with increased selectivity and reduced susceptibility to the resistance mechanisms of tumour cells and infectious pathogens. In this review, we highlight recent advances in defensin research with a particular focus on membrane lipid-targeting in cancer and infection settings. In doing so, we discuss strategies to harness lipid-binding defensins for anticancer and anti-infective therapies.
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Affiliation(s)
- Matthew J. A. Hein
- Department of Biochemistry and Genetics, La Trobe Institute for Molecular Science, La Trobe University, Melbourne 3086, Australia
| | - Marc Kvansakul
- Department of Biochemistry and Genetics, La Trobe Institute for Molecular Science, La Trobe University, Melbourne 3086, Australia
| | - Fung T. Lay
- Department of Biochemistry and Genetics, La Trobe Institute for Molecular Science, La Trobe University, Melbourne 3086, Australia
| | - Thanh Kha Phan
- Department of Biochemistry and Genetics, La Trobe Institute for Molecular Science, La Trobe University, Melbourne 3086, Australia
| | - Mark D. Hulett
- Department of Biochemistry and Genetics, La Trobe Institute for Molecular Science, La Trobe University, Melbourne 3086, Australia
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8
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Bindra GK, Williams SA, Lay FT, Baxter AA, Poon IKH, Hulett MD, Phan TK. Human β-Defensin 2 (HBD-2) Displays Oncolytic Activity but Does Not Affect Tumour Cell Migration. Biomolecules 2022; 12:biom12020264. [PMID: 35204765 PMCID: PMC8961614 DOI: 10.3390/biom12020264] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/26/2021] [Revised: 01/27/2022] [Accepted: 02/03/2022] [Indexed: 01/01/2023] Open
Abstract
Defensins form an integral part of the cationic host defence peptide (HDP) family, a key component of innate immunity. Apart from their antimicrobial and immunomodulatory activities, many HDPs exert multifaceted effects on tumour cells, notably direct oncolysis and/or inhibition of tumour cell migration. Therefore, HDPs have been explored as promising anticancer therapeutics. Human β-defensin 2 (HBD-2) represents a prominent member of human HDPs, being well-characterised for its potent pathogen-killing, wound-healing, cytokine-inducing and leukocyte-chemoattracting functions. However, its anticancer effects remain largely unknown. Recently, we demonstrated that HBD-2 binds strongly to phosphatidylinositol-4,5-bisphosphate (PI(4,5)P2), a key mediator of defensin-induced cell death and an instructional messenger during cell migration. Hence, in this study, we sought to investigate the lytic and anti-migratory effects of HBD-2 on tumour cells. Using various cell biological assays and confocal microscopy, we showed that HBD-2 killed tumour cells via acute lytic cell death rather than apoptosis. In addition, our data suggested that, despite the reported PI(4,5)P2 interaction, HBD-2 does not affect cytoskeletal-dependent tumour cell migration. Together, our findings provide further insights into defensin biology and informs future defensin-based drug development.
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9
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Ceresnakova M, Dully M, Murray D, Soulimane T, Hudson SP. Stent conditioned media for in vitro evaluation of hydrophobic stent coatings. Toxicol In Vitro 2021; 76:105212. [PMID: 34265393 DOI: 10.1016/j.tiv.2021.105212] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/20/2021] [Revised: 06/22/2021] [Accepted: 07/05/2021] [Indexed: 11/27/2022]
Abstract
In vitro cell studies of hydrophobic drugs face difficulties associated with their low aqueous solubility. To study poorly soluble drugs in bio-relevant media, solubilizing agents are frequently used to make stock solutions before final reconstitution in media. This results in drug concentrations that are not representative of in vivo conditions and may pose adverse effects on cells' biological functions. This is especially true of typical hydrophobic stent coatings intended for vascular applications, where poor in vitro to in vivo correlation exists. To this end, a method for preparation of hydrophobic drug suspensions in bio-relevant media via stent conditioned media using paclitaxel (PTX) as a model drug is proposed. Since the drug is present as a suspension, this media was validated for its content uniformity and potency to induce formation of micronuclei, typical of cells undergoing prolonged mitotic arrest. Further, PTX uptake by endothelial cells was quantified and showed that the PTX stent conditioned media (at a theoretical concentration of 100 μM) suppressed cellular growth equivalent to the 0.1 μM DMSO dissolved PTX.
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Affiliation(s)
- Miriama Ceresnakova
- Department of Chemical Sciences, Bernal Institute, University of Limerick, Limerick, Ireland
| | - Michele Dully
- Department of Chemical Sciences, Bernal Institute, University of Limerick, Limerick, Ireland
| | - David Murray
- COOK Medical Ireland Limited, O'Halloran Rd, Castletroy, Limerick, Ireland
| | - Tewfik Soulimane
- Department of Chemical Sciences, Bernal Institute, University of Limerick, Limerick, Ireland.
| | - Sarah P Hudson
- Department of Chemical Sciences, Bernal Institute, University of Limerick, Limerick, Ireland.
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10
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Batista Martins D, Fadel V, Oliveira FD, Gaspar D, Alvares DS, Castanho MARB, Dos Santos Cabrera MP. Protonectin peptides target lipids, act at the interface and selectively kill metastatic breast cancer cells while preserving morphological integrity. J Colloid Interface Sci 2021; 601:517-530. [PMID: 34090029 DOI: 10.1016/j.jcis.2021.05.115] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/20/2021] [Revised: 04/24/2021] [Accepted: 05/20/2021] [Indexed: 12/18/2022]
Abstract
Despite the need for innovative compounds as antimicrobial and anticancer agents, natural sources of peptides remain underexplored. Protonectin (PTN), a cationic dodecapeptide of pharmacological interest, presents large hydrophobicity that is associated with the tendency to aggregate and supposedly influences bioactivity. A disaggregating role was assigned to PTN' N-terminal fragment (PTN1-6), which enhances the bioactivity of PTN in a 1:1 mixture (PTN/PTN1-6). Spectroscopic techniques and model membranes (phospholipid bilayers and SDS micelles) revealed that environment-dependent aggregation is reduced for PTN/PTN1-6, but cytotoxicity of PTNs on MDA-MB-231 breast cancer showed the same CC50 values around 16 µM and on MCF-10A epithelial breast cells 6 to 5-fold higher values, revealing a selective interaction. Since PTN1-6 lacks activity on breast cells, its presence should differently affect PTN activity, suggesting that aggregation could modulate activity depending on the membrane characteristics. Indeed, increased partitioning and lytic activity of PTN/PTN1-6 were found in model membranes independently of charge density, but affected by the curvature tendency. PTN and PTN/PTN1-6 do not alter morphology and roughness of cancer cells, indicating a superficial interaction with membranes and consistent with results obtained in NMR experiments. Our results indicate that aggregation of PTNs depends on the membrane characteristics and modulates the activity of the peptides.
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Affiliation(s)
- Danubia Batista Martins
- Departamento de Física, Universidade Estadual Paulista (UNESP), Instituto de Biociências Letras e Ciências Exatas (IBILCE), R. Cristóvão Colombo, 2265, 15054-000 São José do Rio Preto, SP, Brazil
| | - Valmir Fadel
- Departamento de Física, Universidade Estadual Paulista (UNESP), Instituto de Biociências Letras e Ciências Exatas (IBILCE), R. Cristóvão Colombo, 2265, 15054-000 São José do Rio Preto, SP, Brazil
| | - Filipa D Oliveira
- Instituto de Medicina Molecular, Faculdade de Medicina, Universidade de Lisboa, Av. Prof. Egas Moniz, 1649-028 Lisboa, Portugal
| | - Diana Gaspar
- Instituto de Medicina Molecular, Faculdade de Medicina, Universidade de Lisboa, Av. Prof. Egas Moniz, 1649-028 Lisboa, Portugal
| | - Dayane S Alvares
- Departamento de Física, Universidade Estadual Paulista (UNESP), Instituto de Biociências Letras e Ciências Exatas (IBILCE), R. Cristóvão Colombo, 2265, 15054-000 São José do Rio Preto, SP, Brazil
| | - Miguel A R B Castanho
- Instituto de Medicina Molecular, Faculdade de Medicina, Universidade de Lisboa, Av. Prof. Egas Moniz, 1649-028 Lisboa, Portugal
| | - Marcia Perez Dos Santos Cabrera
- Departamento de Física, Universidade Estadual Paulista (UNESP), Instituto de Biociências Letras e Ciências Exatas (IBILCE), R. Cristóvão Colombo, 2265, 15054-000 São José do Rio Preto, SP, Brazil; Departamento de Química e Ciências Ambientais, Universidade Estadual Paulista (UNESP), Instituto de Biociências Letras e Ciências Exatas (IBILCE), R. Cristóvão Colombo, 2265, 15054-000 São José do Rio Preto, SP, Brazil.
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11
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A novel melanin complex displayed the affinity to HepG2 cell membrane and nucleus. MATERIALS SCIENCE & ENGINEERING. C, MATERIALS FOR BIOLOGICAL APPLICATIONS 2021; 122:111923. [PMID: 33641916 DOI: 10.1016/j.msec.2021.111923] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/01/2020] [Revised: 12/30/2020] [Accepted: 01/24/2021] [Indexed: 01/07/2023]
Abstract
Chitosan-melanin complex from Catharsius molossus L. has proven to possess superior pharmaceutical excipient performance and may be the new source of water-soluble protein-free natural melanin. Herein, it was enzymatically hydrolyzed into the chitooligosaccharide-melanin complex (CMC) whose main chemical units were composed of eumelanin and chitooligosaccharides and showed three-layer structures. Additionally, this biomacromolecule could self-assemble into 40 nm nanoparticles (CMC Nps) in a weakly acidic aqueous solution. Interestingly, CMC displayed strong affinity for cell membrane by binding the phosphatidylserine, glycoprotein, glycolipids and glycosaminoglycans accumulated on the surface of tumor cells, notably, CMC Nps could enter cells and mainly target the nucleus by interacting with DNA and/or RNA substrates located around the nucleus to disrupt the proliferation and apoptosis processes. The findings suggest CMC may be the novel material for subcellular organelle targeting of cancer cells.
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12
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Behzadi M, Arasteh S, Bagheri M. Palmitoylation of Membrane-Penetrating Magainin Derivatives Reinforces Necroptosis in A549 Cells Dependent on Peptide Conformational Propensities. ACS APPLIED MATERIALS & INTERFACES 2020; 12:56815-56829. [PMID: 33296603 DOI: 10.1021/acsami.0c17648] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 05/26/2023]
Abstract
Anticancer lipopeptides (ACLPs) are considered promising alternatives to combat resistant cancer cells, but the influence of peptide conformational propensity alone on their selectivity and mechanism remains obscure. In this study, we developed N-palmitoylated MK5E (P1MK5E) and MEK5 (P1MEK5) that have the same composition of 23 residues undergoing the pH-dependent structural alterations but differ in the conformational tendency of their amino acid composites. Nonlipidated peptides were readily accumulated in the A549 cell nucleus by the direct membrane translocation and the heparan sulfate-mediated endocytosis than the lipid-raft-dependent pathway. The increased hydrophobicity favored the amino acid-position-dependent folding of P1MK5E and P1MEK5, respectively, toward the α-helical coiled-coil nanofibrils and amyloidlike β-protofibrils. At the close concentrations (∼7.5 μM) to the toxic effects of doxorubicin (DOX), P1MK5E exhibited (i) an increased anticancer toxicity through a time-dependent S-phase arrest, (ii) enhanced plasma membrane permeability, and (iii) dose-dependent changes in the cell death characteristic features in the A549 cells relative to P1MEK5 that was almost inactive at ∼75 μM. These observations were in accordance with the TNF-α-mediated necroptotic signaling in the c-MYC/PARP1-overexpressed A549 cells exposed to P1MK5E and accompanied by the ultrastructure of plasma membrane protrusions, extensive endoplasmic reticulum (ER) membrane expansion, mitochondrial swelling, and the formation of distinct cytoplasmic vacuolation. The structural results and the bioactivity behaviors, herein, declared the significance of α-helical propensity in the peptide sequence and the nanostructure morphologies of self-assembling ACLPs upon the selectivity and enhanced anticancer effectiveness, which notably holds promise in the design and development of efficient therapeutics for cancer.
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Affiliation(s)
- Malihe Behzadi
- Peptide Chemistry Laboratory, Institute of Biochemistry and Biophysics, University of Tehran, 16 Azar Street, 14176-14335 Tehran, Iran
| | - Shima Arasteh
- Peptide Chemistry Laboratory, Institute of Biochemistry and Biophysics, University of Tehran, 16 Azar Street, 14176-14335 Tehran, Iran
| | - Mojtaba Bagheri
- Peptide Chemistry Laboratory, Institute of Biochemistry and Biophysics, University of Tehran, 16 Azar Street, 14176-14335 Tehran, Iran
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13
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Skalska J, Andrade VM, Cena GL, Harvey PJ, Gaspar D, Mello ÉO, Henriques ST, Valle J, Gomes VM, Conceição K, Castanho MARB, Andreu D. Synthesis, Structure, and Activity of the Antifungal Plant Defensin PvD 1. J Med Chem 2020; 63:9391-9402. [PMID: 32787086 DOI: 10.1021/acs.jmedchem.0c00543] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/24/2022]
Abstract
Available treatments for invasive fungal infections have limitations, including toxicity and the emergence of resistant strains. Therefore, there is an urgent need for alternative solutions. Because of their unique mode of action and high selectivity, plant defensins (PDs) are worthy therapeutic candidates. Chemical synthesis remains a preferred method for the production of many peptide-based therapeutics. Given the relatively long sequence of PDs, as well as their complicated posttranslational modifications, the synthetic route can be considered challenging. Here, we describe a total synthesis of PvD1, the defensin from the common bean Phaseolus vulgaris. Analytical, structural, and functional characterization revealed that both natural and synthetic peptides fold into a canonical CSαβ motif stabilized by conserved disulfide bonds. Moreover, synthetic PvD1 retained the biological activity against four different Candida species and showed no toxicity in vivo. Adding the high resistance of synthetic PvD1 to proteolytic degradation, we claim that conditions are now met to consider PDs druggable biologicals.
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Affiliation(s)
- Julia Skalska
- Instituto de Medicina Molecular, Faculdade de Medicina, Universidade de Lisboa, 1649-028 Lisbon, Portugal
| | - Vitor M Andrade
- Laboratório de Bioquı́mica de Peptı́deos, Universidade Federal de São Paulo, 12231-280 São José dos Campos, Brazil
| | - Gabrielle L Cena
- Laboratório de Bioquı́mica de Peptı́deos, Universidade Federal de São Paulo, 12231-280 São José dos Campos, Brazil
| | - Peta J Harvey
- Institute for Molecular Bioscience, The University of Queensland, 4072 Brisbane, Queensland, Australia
| | - Diana Gaspar
- Instituto de Medicina Molecular, Faculdade de Medicina, Universidade de Lisboa, 1649-028 Lisbon, Portugal
| | - Érica O Mello
- Laboratório de Fisiologia e Bioquı́mica de Microrganismos, Centro de Biociências e Biotecnologı́a, Universidade Estadual do Norte Fluminense Darcy Ribeiro, 28013-602 Rio de Janeiro, Brazil
| | - Sónia T Henriques
- Institute for Molecular Bioscience, The University of Queensland, 4072 Brisbane, Queensland, Australia.,School of Biomedical Sciences, Institute of Health & Biomedical Innovation and Translational Research Institute, Queensland University of Technology, Brisbane, Queensland 4102, Australia
| | - Javier Valle
- Department of Experimental and Health Sciences, Barcelona Biomedical Research Park, Universitat Pompeu Fabra, 08003 Barcelona, Spain
| | - Valdirene M Gomes
- Laboratório de Fisiologia e Bioquı́mica de Microrganismos, Centro de Biociências e Biotecnologı́a, Universidade Estadual do Norte Fluminense Darcy Ribeiro, 28013-602 Rio de Janeiro, Brazil
| | - Katia Conceição
- Laboratório de Bioquı́mica de Peptı́deos, Universidade Federal de São Paulo, 12231-280 São José dos Campos, Brazil
| | - Miguel A R B Castanho
- Instituto de Medicina Molecular, Faculdade de Medicina, Universidade de Lisboa, 1649-028 Lisbon, Portugal
| | - David Andreu
- Department of Experimental and Health Sciences, Barcelona Biomedical Research Park, Universitat Pompeu Fabra, 08003 Barcelona, Spain
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14
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Skalska J, Oliveira FD, Figueira TN, Mello ÉO, Gomes VM, McNaughton-Smith G, Castanho MARB, Gaspar D. Plant defensin PvD 1 modulates the membrane composition of breast tumour-derived exosomes. NANOSCALE 2019; 11:23366-23381. [PMID: 31793603 DOI: 10.1039/c9nr07843f] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 06/10/2023]
Abstract
One of the most important causes of failure in tumour treatment is the development of resistance to therapy. Cancer cells can develop the ability to lose sensitivity to anti-neoplastic drugs during reciprocal crosstalk between cells and their interaction with the tumour microenvironment (TME). Cell-to-cell communication regulates a cascade of interdependent events essential for disease development and progression and can be mediated by several signalling pathways. Exosome-mediated communication is one of the pathways regulating these events. Tumour-derived exosomes (TDE) are believed to have the ability to modulate TMEs and participate in multidrug resistance mechanisms. In this work, we studied the effect of the natural defensin from common bean, PvD1, on the formation of exosomes by breast cancer MCF-7 cells, mainly the modulatory effect it has on the level of CD63 and CD9 tetraspanins. Moreover, we followed the interaction of PvD1 with biological and model membranes of selected composition, by biophysical and imaging techniques. Overall, the results show that PvD1 induces a dual effect on MCF-7 derived exosomes: the peptide attenuates the recruitment of CD63 and CD9 to exosomes intracellularly and binds to the mature exosomes in the extracellular environment. This work uncovers the exosome-mediated anticancer action of PvD1, a potential nutraceutical agent.
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Affiliation(s)
- Julia Skalska
- Instituto de Medicina Molecular, Faculdade de Medicina, Universidade de Lisboa, Lisbon, Portugal.
| | - Filipa D Oliveira
- Instituto de Medicina Molecular, Faculdade de Medicina, Universidade de Lisboa, Lisbon, Portugal.
| | - Tiago N Figueira
- Instituto de Medicina Molecular, Faculdade de Medicina, Universidade de Lisboa, Lisbon, Portugal.
| | - Érica O Mello
- Laboratório de Fisiologia e Bioquímica de Microrganismos do Centro de Biociências e Biotecnologia da Universidade Estadual do Norte Fluminense Darcy Ribeiro, Rio de Janeiro, Brazil
| | - Valdirene M Gomes
- Laboratório de Fisiologia e Bioquímica de Microrganismos do Centro de Biociências e Biotecnologia da Universidade Estadual do Norte Fluminense Darcy Ribeiro, Rio de Janeiro, Brazil
| | - Grant McNaughton-Smith
- CEAMED - Centro Atlántico del Medicamento, S.A., San Cristobal de La Laguna, S/C Tenerife, Spain
| | - Miguel A R B Castanho
- Instituto de Medicina Molecular, Faculdade de Medicina, Universidade de Lisboa, Lisbon, Portugal.
| | - Diana Gaspar
- Instituto de Medicina Molecular, Faculdade de Medicina, Universidade de Lisboa, Lisbon, Portugal.
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15
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Orrapin S, Intorasoot A, Roytrakul S, Dechsupa N, Kantapan J, Onphat Y, Srimek C, Sitthidet Tharinjaroen C, Anukool U, Butr-Indr B, Phunpae P, Intorasoot S. A novel recombinant javanicin with dual antifungal and anti-proliferative activities. Sci Rep 2019; 9:18417. [PMID: 31804594 PMCID: PMC6895105 DOI: 10.1038/s41598-019-55044-7] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/27/2019] [Accepted: 11/23/2019] [Indexed: 12/14/2022] Open
Abstract
Resistance to common drugs by microorganisms and cancers has become a major issue in modern healthcare, increasing the number of deaths worldwide. Novel therapeutic agents with a higher efficiency and less side effects for the treatment of certain diseases are urgently needed. Plant defensins have an integral role in a hosts' immune system and are attractive candidates for combatting drug-resistant microorganisms. Interestingly, some of these defensins also showed great potential due to their cytotoxic activity toward cancer cells. In this study, a defensin encoding gene was isolated from five legume seeds using 3' rapid amplification of cDNA ends (3' RACE) with degenerate primers and cDNA cloning strategies. Bioinformatic tools were used for in silico identification and the characterization of new sequences. To study the functional characteristics of these unique defensins, the gene encoded for Sesbania javanica defensin, designated as javanicin, was cloned into pTXB-1 plasmid and expressed in the Escherichia coli Origami 2 (DE3) strain. Under optimized conditions, a 34-kDa javanicin-intein fusion protein was expressed and approximately 2.5-3.5 mg/L of soluble recombinant javanicin was successfully extracted with over 90% purity. Recombinant javanicin displayed antifungal properties against human pathogenic fungi, including resistant strains, as well as cytotoxic activities toward the human breast cancer cell lines, MCF-7 & MDA-MB-231. Recombinant javanicin holds great promise as a novel therapeutic agent for further medical applications.
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Affiliation(s)
- Santhasiri Orrapin
- Division of Clinical Microbiology, Department of Medical Technology, Faculty of Associated Medical Sciences, Chiang Mai University, Chiang Mai, 50200, Thailand
| | - Amornrat Intorasoot
- Department of Microbiology, Faculty of Medicine, Chiang Mai University, Chiang Mai, 50200, Thailand
| | - Sittiruk Roytrakul
- Proteomics Research Laboratory, National Center for Genetic Engineering and Biotechnology (BIOTEC), Thailand Science Park, Pathum Thani, 12120, Thailand
| | - Nathupakorn Dechsupa
- Department of Radiologic Technology, Faculty of Associated Medical Sciences, Chiang Mai University, Chiang Mai, 50200, Thailand
| | - Jiraporn Kantapan
- Department of Radiologic Technology, Faculty of Associated Medical Sciences, Chiang Mai University, Chiang Mai, 50200, Thailand
| | - Yanika Onphat
- Division of Clinical Microbiology, Department of Medical Technology, Faculty of Associated Medical Sciences, Chiang Mai University, Chiang Mai, 50200, Thailand
| | - Chutima Srimek
- Division of Clinical Microbiology, Department of Medical Technology, Faculty of Associated Medical Sciences, Chiang Mai University, Chiang Mai, 50200, Thailand
| | - Chayada Sitthidet Tharinjaroen
- Division of Clinical Microbiology, Department of Medical Technology, Faculty of Associated Medical Sciences, Chiang Mai University, Chiang Mai, 50200, Thailand
- Infectious Diseases Research Unit (IDRU), Faculty of Associated Medical Sciences, Chiang Mai University, Chiang Mai, 50200, Thailand
| | - Usanee Anukool
- Division of Clinical Microbiology, Department of Medical Technology, Faculty of Associated Medical Sciences, Chiang Mai University, Chiang Mai, 50200, Thailand
- Infectious Diseases Research Unit (IDRU), Faculty of Associated Medical Sciences, Chiang Mai University, Chiang Mai, 50200, Thailand
| | - Bordin Butr-Indr
- Division of Clinical Microbiology, Department of Medical Technology, Faculty of Associated Medical Sciences, Chiang Mai University, Chiang Mai, 50200, Thailand
- Infectious Diseases Research Unit (IDRU), Faculty of Associated Medical Sciences, Chiang Mai University, Chiang Mai, 50200, Thailand
| | - Ponrut Phunpae
- Division of Clinical Microbiology, Department of Medical Technology, Faculty of Associated Medical Sciences, Chiang Mai University, Chiang Mai, 50200, Thailand
- Infectious Diseases Research Unit (IDRU), Faculty of Associated Medical Sciences, Chiang Mai University, Chiang Mai, 50200, Thailand
| | - Sorasak Intorasoot
- Division of Clinical Microbiology, Department of Medical Technology, Faculty of Associated Medical Sciences, Chiang Mai University, Chiang Mai, 50200, Thailand.
- Infectious Diseases Research Unit (IDRU), Faculty of Associated Medical Sciences, Chiang Mai University, Chiang Mai, 50200, Thailand.
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16
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Souza GS, de Carvalho LP, de Melo EJT, da Silva FCV, Machado OLT, Gomes VM, de Oliveira Carvalho A. A synthetic peptide derived of the β 2-β 3 loop of the plant defensin from Vigna unguiculata seeds induces Leishmania amazonensis apoptosis-like cell death. Amino Acids 2019; 51:1633-1648. [PMID: 31654210 DOI: 10.1007/s00726-019-02800-8] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/17/2019] [Accepted: 10/10/2019] [Indexed: 12/17/2022]
Abstract
For medical use of proteins and peptide-based drugs, it is desirable to have small biologically active sequences because they improve stability, reduce side effects, and production costs. Several plant defensins have their biological activities imparted by a sequence named γ-core. Vu-Def, a Vigna unguiculata defensin, has activity against Leishmania amazonensis, which is one etiological agent of leishmaniasis and for which new drugs are needed. Our intention was to understand if the region comprising the Vu-Def γ-core is responsible for the biological activity against L. amazonensis and to unveil its mechanism of action. Different microbiological assays with L. amazonensis in the presence of the synthetic peptide A36,42,44γ32-46Vu-Def were done, as well as ultrastructural and fluorescent analyses. A36,42,44γ32-46Vu-Def showed biological activity similar to Vu-Def. A36,42,44γ32-46Vu-Def (74 µM) caused 97% inhibition of L. amazonensis culture and parasites were unable to regrow in fresh medium. The cells of the treated parasites showed morphological alterations by ultrastructural analysis and fluorescent labelings that corroborate with the data of the organelles alterations. The general significance of our work is based on the description of a small synthetic peptide, A36,42,44γ32-46Vu-Def, which has activity on L. amazonensis and that the interaction between A36,42,44γ32-46Vu-Def-L. amazonensis results in parasite inhibition by the activation of an apoptotic-like cell death pathway.
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Affiliation(s)
- Géssika Silva Souza
- Laboratório de Fisiologia e Bioquímica de Micro-organismos, Universidade Estadual do Norte Fluminense Darcy Ribeiro, Av. Alberto Lamego, 2000, Parque Califórnia, Campos dos Goytacazes, RJ, 28013-602, Brazil
| | - Laís Pessanha de Carvalho
- Laboratório de Biologia Celular e Tecidual, Universidade Estadual do Norte Fluminense Darcy Ribeiro, Campos dos Goytacazes, RJ, Brazil
| | - Edésio José Tenório de Melo
- Laboratório de Biologia Celular e Tecidual, Universidade Estadual do Norte Fluminense Darcy Ribeiro, Campos dos Goytacazes, RJ, Brazil
| | - Flávia Camila Vieira da Silva
- Laboratório de Fisiologia e Bioquímica de Micro-organismos, Universidade Estadual do Norte Fluminense Darcy Ribeiro, Av. Alberto Lamego, 2000, Parque Califórnia, Campos dos Goytacazes, RJ, 28013-602, Brazil
| | - Olga Lima Tavares Machado
- Laboratório de Química e Função de Proteínas e Peptídeos, Universidade Estadual do Norte Fluminense Darcy Ribeiro, Campos dos Goytacazes, RJ, Brazil
| | - Valdirene Moreira Gomes
- Laboratório de Fisiologia e Bioquímica de Micro-organismos, Universidade Estadual do Norte Fluminense Darcy Ribeiro, Av. Alberto Lamego, 2000, Parque Califórnia, Campos dos Goytacazes, RJ, 28013-602, Brazil
| | - André de Oliveira Carvalho
- Laboratório de Fisiologia e Bioquímica de Micro-organismos, Universidade Estadual do Norte Fluminense Darcy Ribeiro, Av. Alberto Lamego, 2000, Parque Califórnia, Campos dos Goytacazes, RJ, 28013-602, Brazil.
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17
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Philippe GJB, Gaspar D, Sheng C, Huang YH, Benfield AH, Condon ND, Weidmann J, Lawrence N, Löwer A, Castanho MARB, Craik DJ, Troeira Henriques S. Cell Membrane Composition Drives Selectivity and Toxicity of Designed Cyclic Helix-Loop-Helix Peptides with Cell Penetrating and Tumor Suppressor Properties. ACS Chem Biol 2019; 14:2071-2087. [PMID: 31390185 DOI: 10.1021/acschembio.9b00593] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 02/06/2023]
Abstract
The tumor suppressor protein p53 is inactive in a large number of cancers, including some forms of sarcoma, breast cancer, and leukemia, due to overexpression of its intrinsic inhibitors MDM2 and MDMX. Reactivation of p53 tumor suppressor activity, via disruption of interactions between MDM2/X and p53 in the cytosol, is a promising strategy to treat cancer. Peptides able to bind MDM2 and/or MDMX were shown to prevent MDM2/X:p53 interactions, but most possess low cell penetrability, low stability, and/or high toxicity to healthy cells. Recently, the designed peptide cHLH-p53-R was reported to possess high affinity for MDM2, resistance toward proteases, cell-penetrating properties, and toxicity toward cancer cells. This peptide uses a stable cyclic helix-loop-helix (cHLH) scaffold, which includes two helices connected with a Gly loop and cyclized to improve stability. In the current study, we were interested in examining the cell selectivity of cHLH-p53-R, its cellular internalization, and ability to reactivate the p53 pathway. We designed analogues of cHLH-p53-R and employed biochemical and biophysical methodologies using in vitro model membranes and cell-based assays to compare their structure, activity, and mode-of-action. Our studies show that cHLH is an excellent scaffold to stabilize and constrain p53-mimetic peptides with helical conformation, and reveal that anticancer properties of cHLH-p53-R are mediated by its ability to selectively target, cross, and disrupt cancer cell membranes, and not by activation of the p53 pathway. These findings highlight the importance of examining the mode-of-action of designed peptides to fully exploit their potential to develop targeted therapies.
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Affiliation(s)
- Grégoire J.-B. Philippe
- Institute for Molecular Bioscience, the University of Queensland, St. Lucia, QLD 4072, Australia
| | - Diana Gaspar
- Instituto de Medicina Molecular, Faculdade de Medicina, Universidade de Lisboa, 1649-028 Lisboa, Portugal
| | - Caibin Sheng
- Technische Universität Darmstadt, 64287 Darmstadt, Germany
| | - Yen-Hua Huang
- Institute for Molecular Bioscience, the University of Queensland, St. Lucia, QLD 4072, Australia
| | - Aurélie H. Benfield
- Institute for Molecular Bioscience, the University of Queensland, St. Lucia, QLD 4072, Australia
- School of Biomedical Sciences, Institute of Health & Biomedical Innovation, Queensland University of Technology, Translational Research Institute, Brisbane, QLD 4102, Australia
| | - Nicholas D. Condon
- Institute for Molecular Bioscience, the University of Queensland, St. Lucia, QLD 4072, Australia
| | - Joachim Weidmann
- Institute for Molecular Bioscience, the University of Queensland, St. Lucia, QLD 4072, Australia
| | - Nicole Lawrence
- Institute for Molecular Bioscience, the University of Queensland, St. Lucia, QLD 4072, Australia
| | | | - Miguel A. R. B. Castanho
- Instituto de Medicina Molecular, Faculdade de Medicina, Universidade de Lisboa, 1649-028 Lisboa, Portugal
| | - David J. Craik
- Institute for Molecular Bioscience, the University of Queensland, St. Lucia, QLD 4072, Australia
| | - Sónia Troeira Henriques
- Institute for Molecular Bioscience, the University of Queensland, St. Lucia, QLD 4072, Australia
- School of Biomedical Sciences, Institute of Health & Biomedical Innovation, Queensland University of Technology, Translational Research Institute, Brisbane, QLD 4102, Australia
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de Oliveira Mello É, Taveira GB, de Oliveira Carvalho A, Gomes VM. Improved smallest peptides based on positive charge increase of the γ-core motif from PνD 1 and their mechanism of action against Candida species. Int J Nanomedicine 2019; 14:407-420. [PMID: 30666103 PMCID: PMC6331069 DOI: 10.2147/ijn.s187957] [Citation(s) in RCA: 21] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/23/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Plant defensins have a hallmark γ-core motif (GXCX3-9C) that is related to their antimicrobial properties. The aim of this work was to design synthetic peptides based on the region corresponding to the PvD1 defensin γ-core that are the smallest amino acid sequences that bear the strongest biological activity. METHODS We made rational substitutions of negatively charged amino acid residues with positively charged ones, and the reduction in length in the selected PvD1 γ-core sequence to verify whether the increased net positive charges and shortened length are related to the increase in antifungal activity. Herein, we opted to evaluate the action mechanism of γ33-41 PvD1 ++ peptide due to its significant inhibitory effect on tested yeasts. In addition, it is the smallest construct comprising only nine amino acid residues, giving it a better possibility to be a prototype for designing a new antifungal drug, with lower costs to the pharmaceutical industry while still maintaining the strongest antimicrobial properties. RESULTS The γ33-41 PvD1 ++ peptide caused the most toxic effects in the yeast Candida buinensis, leading to membrane permeabilization, viability loss, endogenous reactive oxygen species increase, the activation of metacaspase, and the loss of mitochondrial functionality, suggesting that this peptide triggers cell death via apoptosis. CONCLUSION We observed that the antifungal activity of PvD1 is not strictly localized in the structural domain, which comprises the γ-core region and that the increase in the net positive charge is directly related to the increase in antifungal activity.
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Affiliation(s)
- Érica de Oliveira Mello
- Laboratório de Fisiologia e Bioquímica de Microrganismos, Centro de Biociências e Biotecnologia, Universidade Estadualdo Norte Fluminense Darcy Ribeiro, Campos dos Goytacazes, Rio de Janeiro, Brazil, ;
| | - Gabriel Bonan Taveira
- Laboratório de Fisiologia e Bioquímica de Microrganismos, Centro de Biociências e Biotecnologia, Universidade Estadualdo Norte Fluminense Darcy Ribeiro, Campos dos Goytacazes, Rio de Janeiro, Brazil, ;
| | - André de Oliveira Carvalho
- Laboratório de Fisiologia e Bioquímica de Microrganismos, Centro de Biociências e Biotecnologia, Universidade Estadualdo Norte Fluminense Darcy Ribeiro, Campos dos Goytacazes, Rio de Janeiro, Brazil, ;
| | - Valdirene Moreira Gomes
- Laboratório de Fisiologia e Bioquímica de Microrganismos, Centro de Biociências e Biotecnologia, Universidade Estadualdo Norte Fluminense Darcy Ribeiro, Campos dos Goytacazes, Rio de Janeiro, Brazil, ;
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19
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Nyström L, Malmsten M. Membrane interactions and cell selectivity of amphiphilic anticancer peptides. Curr Opin Colloid Interface Sci 2018. [DOI: 10.1016/j.cocis.2018.06.009] [Citation(s) in RCA: 27] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/18/2022]
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