Discovery of natural multi-targets neuraminidase inhibitor glycosides compounds against influenza A virus through network pharmacology, virtual screening, molecular dynamics simulation, and in vitro experiment

Fluorescence paper sensor meets magnetic affinity chromatography: discovering potent neuraminidase inhibitors in herbal medicines

Given the inherent complexity of natural medicines, finding a straightforward and efficient method for identifying active ingredients remains a significant challenge, yet it is of paramount importance. Influenza virus neuraminidase (NA), a primary target for anti-influenza drug development, plays a crucial role in the infection process, making it essential to develop rapid and facile methods for screening NA inhibitors. Herein, we developed a novel and efficient analytical technique for the identification of NA inhibitors from complex herbal medicines by integrating dual sensing with affinity chromatography. This approach simplifies the experimental process and highlights the benefits of being quicker, more sensitive, and cost-effective. Regarding the biosensing section, the innovative concept of a 4-methylumbelliferyl-N-acetylneuraminic acid-NA-based fluorescence paper sensor strategy enables the rapid detection of NA inhibitors in complex herbal samples. In affinity chromatography, bioactive compounds were precisely captured, separated, and identified. The efficacy and reliability of the developed method were confirmed using both negative and positive controls. Then, the method was applied to screen for NA inhibitors in 20 different herbal medicines. The results revealed that Bupleurum chinense DC. exhibited the most pronounced inhibitory effect on NA. Subsequent analysis utilizing affinity chromatography identified three bioactive compounds, namely saikosaponin a, saikosaponin d, and baicalin, as the active agents responsible for this inhibitory effect, with IC50 values of 177.3 μM, 262.9 μM, and 241.4 μM, respectively. Molecular docking studies further indicated that these three bioactive compounds exhibit a strong binding affinity with NA. This research provides novel insights into the screening of enzyme inhibitors within herbal medicines.

Bioinformatics and system biology approach to identify the influences among COVID-19, influenza, and HIV on the regulation of gene expression

Background

Coronavirus disease (COVID-19), caused by SARS-CoV-2, has emerged as a infectious disease, coexisting with widespread seasonal and sporadic influenza epidemics globally. Individuals living with HIV, characterized by compromised immune systems, face an elevated risk of severe outcomes and increased mortality when affected by COVID-19. Despite this connection, the molecular intricacies linking COVID-19, influenza, and HIV remain unclear. Our research endeavors to elucidate the shared pathways and molecular markers in individuals with HIV concurrently infected with COVID-19 and influenza. Furthermore, we aim to identify potential medications that may prove beneficial in managing these three interconnected illnesses.

Methods

Sequencing data for COVID-19 (GSE157103), influenza (GSE185576), and HIV (GSE195434) were retrieved from the GEO database. Commonly expressed differentially expressed genes (DEGs) were identified across the three datasets, followed by immune infiltration analysis and diagnostic ROC analysis on the DEGs. Functional enrichment analysis was performed using GO/KEGG and Gene Set Enrichment Analysis (GSEA). Hub genes were screened through a Protein-Protein Interaction networks (PPIs) analysis among DEGs. Analysis of miRNAs, transcription factors, drug chemicals, diseases, and RNA-binding proteins was conducted based on the identified hub genes. Finally, quantitative PCR (qPCR) expression verification was undertaken for selected hub genes.

Results

The analysis of the three datasets revealed a total of 22 shared DEGs, with the majority exhibiting an area under the curve value exceeding 0.7. Functional enrichment analysis with GO/KEGG and GSEA primarily highlighted signaling pathways associated with ribosomes and tumors. The ten identified hub genes included IFI44L, IFI44, RSAD2, ISG15, IFIT3, OAS1, EIF2AK2, IFI27, OASL, and EPSTI1. Additionally, five crucial miRNAs (hsa-miR-8060, hsa-miR-6890-5p, hsa-miR-5003-3p, hsa-miR-6893-3p, and hsa-miR-6069), five essential transcription factors (CREB1, CEBPB, EGR1, EP300, and IRF1), and the top ten significant drug chemicals (estradiol, progesterone, tretinoin, calcitriol, fluorouracil, methotrexate, lipopolysaccharide, valproic acid, silicon dioxide, cyclosporine) were identified.

Conclusion

This research provides valuable insights into shared molecular targets, signaling pathways, drug chemicals, and potential biomarkers for individuals facing the complex intersection of COVID-19, influenza, and HIV. These findings hold promise for enhancing the precision of diagnosis and treatment for individuals with HIV co-infected with COVID-19 and influenza.