1
|
Shaham SH, Joshi P, Shabeer Ali H, Yadav K, Sharma A, Mugale MN, Tripathi R. Role of angiotensin pathway and its target therapy to rescue from experimental cerebral malaria. Microbes Infect 2024; 26:105333. [PMID: 38570086 DOI: 10.1016/j.micinf.2024.105333] [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: 12/22/2023] [Revised: 03/21/2024] [Accepted: 03/26/2024] [Indexed: 04/05/2024]
Abstract
Cerebral malaria (CM) induced by Plasmodium falciparum is a devastating neurological complication that may lead the patient to coma and death. This study aimed to protect Plasmodium-infected C57BL6 mice from CM by targeting the angiotensin II type 1 (AT1) receptor, which is considered the common connecting link between hypertension and CM. In CM, AT-1 mediates blood-brain barrier (BBB) damage through the overexpression of β-catenin. The AT-1-inhibiting drugs, such as irbesartan and losartan, were evaluated for the prevention of CM. The effectiveness of these drugs was determined by the down regulation of β-catenin, TCF, LEF, ICAM-1, and VCAM-1 in the drug-treated groups. The expression levels of VE-cadherin and vinculin, essential for the maintenance of BBB integrity, were found to be restored in the drug-treated groups. The pro-inflammatory cytokine levels were decreased, and the anti-inflammatory cytokine levels increased with the treatment. As a major highlight, the mean survival time of treated mice was found to be increased even in the absence of treatment with an anti-malarial agent. The combination of irbesartan or losartan with the anti-malarial agent α/β-arteether has contributed to an 80% cure rate, which is higher than the 60% cure rate observed with α/β-arteether alone treatment.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Salique Hassan Shaham
- Department of Molecular Microbiology & Immunology, CSIR-Central Drug Research Institute, Lucknow-226031, India; Academy of Scientific and Innovative Research (AcSIR), Ghaziabad, 201002, India
| | - Prince Joshi
- Department of Molecular Microbiology & Immunology, CSIR-Central Drug Research Institute, Lucknow-226031, India
| | - H Shabeer Ali
- Department of Molecular Microbiology & Immunology, CSIR-Central Drug Research Institute, Lucknow-226031, India
| | - Kanchan Yadav
- Department of Molecular Microbiology & Immunology, CSIR-Central Drug Research Institute, Lucknow-226031, India
| | - Anamika Sharma
- Department of Molecular Microbiology & Immunology, CSIR-Central Drug Research Institute, Lucknow-226031, India
| | - Madhav Nilakanth Mugale
- Department of Molecular Microbiology & Immunology, CSIR-Central Drug Research Institute, Lucknow-226031, India
| | - Renu Tripathi
- Department of Molecular Microbiology & Immunology, CSIR-Central Drug Research Institute, Lucknow-226031, India.
| |
Collapse
|
2
|
Akide Ndunge OB, Kilian N, Salman MM. Cerebral Malaria and Neuronal Implications of Plasmodium Falciparum Infection: From Mechanisms to Advanced Models. ADVANCED SCIENCE (WEINHEIM, BADEN-WURTTEMBERG, GERMANY) 2022; 9:e2202944. [PMID: 36300890 PMCID: PMC9798991 DOI: 10.1002/advs.202202944] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/18/2022] [Revised: 09/22/2022] [Indexed: 06/01/2023]
Abstract
Reorganization of host red blood cells by the malaria parasite Plasmodium falciparum enables their sequestration via attachment to the microvasculature. This artificially increases the dwelling time of the infected red blood cells within inner organs such as the brain, which can lead to cerebral malaria. Cerebral malaria is the deadliest complication patients infected with P. falciparum can experience and still remains a major public health concern despite effective antimalarial therapies. Here, the current understanding of the effect of P. falciparum cytoadherence and their secreted proteins on structural features of the human blood-brain barrier and their involvement in the pathogenesis of cerebral malaria are highlighted. Advanced 2D and 3D in vitro models are further assessed to study this devastating interaction between parasite and host. A better understanding of the molecular mechanisms leading to neuronal and cognitive deficits in cerebral malaria will be pivotal in devising new strategies to treat and prevent blood-brain barrier dysfunction and subsequent neurological damage in patients with cerebral malaria.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Oscar Bate Akide Ndunge
- Department of Internal MedicineSection of Infectious DiseasesYale University School of Medicine300 Cedar StreetNew HavenCT06510USA
| | - Nicole Kilian
- Centre for Infectious Diseases, ParasitologyHeidelberg University HospitalIm Neuenheimer Feld 32469120HeidelbergGermany
| | - Mootaz M. Salman
- Department of PhysiologyAnatomy and GeneticsUniversity of OxfordOxfordOX1 3QUUK
- Kavli Institute for NanoScience DiscoveryUniversity of OxfordOxfordUK
- Oxford Parkinson's Disease CentreUniversity of OxfordOxfordUK
| |
Collapse
|
3
|
Mota S, Bensalel J, Park DH, Gonzalez S, Rodriguez A, Gallego-Delgado J. Treatment Reducing Endothelial Activation Protects against Experimental Cerebral Malaria. Pathogens 2022; 11:643. [PMID: 35745497 PMCID: PMC9229727 DOI: 10.3390/pathogens11060643] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/06/2022] [Revised: 05/25/2022] [Accepted: 05/30/2022] [Indexed: 11/30/2022] Open
Abstract
Cerebral malaria (CM) is the most severe neurological complication of malaria caused by Plasmodium falciparum infection. The available antimalarial drugs are effective at clearing the parasite, but the mortality rate remains as high as 20% of CM cases. At the vascular level, CM is characterized by endothelial activation and dysfunction. Several biomarkers of endothelial activation have been associated with CM severity and mortality, making the brain vascular endothelium a potential target for adjunctive therapies. Statins and Angiotensin II Receptor Blockers (ARBs) are drugs used to treat hypercholesterolemia and hypertension, respectively, that have shown endothelial protective activity in other diseases. Here, we used a combination of a statin (atorvastatin) and an ARB (irbesartan) as adjunctive therapy to conventional antimalarial drugs in a mouse experimental model of CM. We observed that administration of atorvastatin-irbesartan combination decreased the levels of biomarkers of endothelial activation, such as the von Willebrand factor and angiopoietin-1. After mice developed neurological signs of CM, treatment with the combination plus conventional antimalarial drugs increased survival rates of animals 3-4 times compared to treatment with antimalarial drugs alone, with animals presenting lower numbers and smaller hemorrhages in the brain. Taken together, our results support the hypothesis that inhibiting endothelial activation would greatly reduce the CM-associated pathology and mortality.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Sabrina Mota
- Department of Microbiology, New York University School of Medicine, New York, NY 10016, USA; (S.M.); (D.H.P.); (S.G.)
| | - Johanna Bensalel
- Department of Biological Sciences, Lehman College, The City University of New York, Bronx, New York, NY 10468, USA;
- Ph.D. Program in Biology, The Graduate Center, The City University of New York, New York, NY 10016, USA
| | - Do Hee Park
- Department of Microbiology, New York University School of Medicine, New York, NY 10016, USA; (S.M.); (D.H.P.); (S.G.)
| | - Sandra Gonzalez
- Department of Microbiology, New York University School of Medicine, New York, NY 10016, USA; (S.M.); (D.H.P.); (S.G.)
| | - Ana Rodriguez
- Department of Microbiology, New York University School of Medicine, New York, NY 10016, USA; (S.M.); (D.H.P.); (S.G.)
| | - Julio Gallego-Delgado
- Department of Biological Sciences, Lehman College, The City University of New York, Bronx, New York, NY 10468, USA;
- Ph.D. Program in Biology, The Graduate Center, The City University of New York, New York, NY 10016, USA
| |
Collapse
|
4
|
Mukherjee S, Ray G, Saha B, Kar SK. Oral Therapy Using a Combination of Nanotized Antimalarials and Immunomodulatory Molecules Reduces Inflammation and Prevents Parasite Induced Pathology in the Brain and Spleen of P. berghei ANKA Infected C57BL/6 Mice. Front Immunol 2022; 12:819469. [PMID: 35095923 PMCID: PMC8793777 DOI: 10.3389/fimmu.2021.819469] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/21/2021] [Accepted: 12/22/2021] [Indexed: 11/13/2022] Open
Abstract
In malaria, anti-parasite immune response of the host may lead to dysregulated inflammation causing severe neuropathology arising from extensive damage to the Blood Brain Barrier (BBB). Use of anti-malarial drugs alone can control parasitemia and reduce inflammation but it cannot reduce pathology if chronic inflammation has already set in. In the present study, we have tested the efficacy of a new oral artemsinin based combination therapy (ACT) regimen using a combination of anti-malarial compounds like nanoartemisinin and nanoallylated-chalcone9 [{1-(4-Chlorophenyl)-3-[3-methoxy-4-(prop-2-en-1-yloxy) phenyl]-prop-2-en-1-one}]given together with anti-inflammatory-cum- anti-malarial compounds like nanoandrographolide and nanocurcumin to C57BL/6 mice infected with P. berghei ANKA. Untreated infected mice developed Experimental Cerebral Malaria (ECM) and died between 10 to 12 days after infection from severe BBB damage. We observed that oral treatments with nanoartemisinin or nano allylated chalcone 9 or nanoandrographolide alone, for 4 days after the onset of ECM, delayed the development of severe neurolopathology but could not prevent it. Nanocurcumin treatment for 4 days on the other hand, prevented damage to the BBB but the mice died because of hyperparasitemia. A single time oral administration of our ACT controlled blood parasitemia and prevented damage to the BBB, but recrudescence occurred due to persistence of parasites in the spleen. However the recrudescent parasites failed to induce ECM and BBB damage, leading to prolonged survival of the animals. A second time treatment at the start of recrudescence led to complete parasite clearance and survival of mice without pathology or parasitemia for 90 days. FACS analysis of spleen cells and gene expression profile in brain and spleen as well as quantitation of serum cytokine by ELISA showed that P. berghei ANKA infection in C57Bl/6 mice leads to a Th1-skewed immune response that result in severe inflammation and early death from ECM. Oral treatment with our ACT prevented a heightened pro-inflammatory response by modulating the Th1, Th2 and Treg immune responses and prevented ECM and death.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Sitabja Mukherjee
- School of Biotechnology, KIIT deemed to be University, Bhubaneswar, India
| | - Gopesh Ray
- Nano Herb Research Laboratory, Kalinga Institute of Industrial Technology (KIIT) Technology Business Incubator, KIIT deemed to be University, Bhubaneswar, India
| | - Bhaskar Saha
- National Centre for Cell Science, Ganeshkhind, Pune, India
| | - Santosh K. Kar
- Nano Herb Research Laboratory, Kalinga Institute of Industrial Technology (KIIT) Technology Business Incubator, KIIT deemed to be University, Bhubaneswar, India,*Correspondence: Santosh K. Kar,
| |
Collapse
|
5
|
The Artemiside-Artemisox-Artemisone-M1 Tetrad: Efficacies against Blood Stage P. falciparum Parasites, DMPK Properties, and the Case for Artemiside. Pharmaceutics 2021; 13:pharmaceutics13122066. [PMID: 34959347 PMCID: PMC8704606 DOI: 10.3390/pharmaceutics13122066] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/01/2021] [Revised: 11/23/2021] [Accepted: 11/24/2021] [Indexed: 01/15/2023] Open
Abstract
Because of the need to replace the current clinical artemisinins in artemisinin combination therapies, we are evaluating fitness of amino-artemisinins for this purpose. These include the thiomorpholine derivative artemiside obtained in one scalable synthetic step from dihydroartemisinin (DHA) and the derived sulfone artemisone. We have recently shown that artemiside undergoes facile metabolism via the sulfoxide artemisox into artemisone and thence into the unsaturated metabolite M1; DHA is not a metabolite. Artemisox and M1 are now found to be approximately equipotent with artemiside and artemisone in vitro against asexual P. falciparum (Pf) blood stage parasites (IC50 1.5–2.6 nM). Against Pf NF54 blood stage gametocytes, artemisox is potently active (IC50 18.9 nM early-stage, 2.7 nM late-stage), although against the late-stage gametocytes, activity is expressed, like other amino-artemisinins, at a prolonged incubation time of 72 h. Comparative drug metabolism and pharmacokinetic (DMPK) properties were assessed via po and iv administration of artemiside, artemisox, and artemisone in a murine model. Following oral administration, the composite Cmax value of artemiside plus its metabolites artemisox and artemisone formed in vivo is some 2.6-fold higher than that attained following administration of artemisone alone. Given that efficacy of short half-life rapidly-acting antimalarial drugs such as the artemisinins is associated with Cmax, it is apparent that artemiside will be more active than artemisone in vivo, due to additive effects of the metabolites. As is evident from earlier data, artemiside indeed possesses appreciably greater efficacy in vivo against murine malaria. Overall, the higher exposure levels of active drug following administration of artemiside coupled with its synthetic accessibility indicate it is much the preferred drug for incorporation into rational new artemisinin combination therapies.
Collapse
|
6
|
Tisnerat C, Dassonville-Klimpt A, Gosselet F, Sonnet P. Antimalarial drug discovery: from quinine to the most recent promising clinical drug candidates. Curr Med Chem 2021; 29:3326-3365. [PMID: 34344287 DOI: 10.2174/0929867328666210803152419] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/06/2021] [Revised: 06/10/2021] [Accepted: 06/11/2021] [Indexed: 11/22/2022]
Abstract
Malaria is a tropical threatening disease caused by Plasmodium parasites, resulting in 409,000 deaths in 2019. The delay of mortality and morbidity has been compounded by the widespread of drug resistant parasites from Southeast Asia since two decades. The emergence of artemisinin-resistant Plasmodium in Africa, where most cases are accounted, highlights the urgent need for new medicines. In this effort, the World Health Organization and Medicines for Malaria Venture joined to define clear goals for novel therapies and characterized the target candidate profile. This ongoing search for new treatments is based on imperative labor in medicinal chemistry which is summarized here with particular attention to hit-to-lead optimizations, key properties, and modes of action of these novel antimalarial drugs. This review, after presenting the current antimalarial chemotherapy, from quinine to the latest marketed drugs, focuses in particular on recent advances of the most promising antimalarial candidates in clinical and preclinical phases.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Camille Tisnerat
- AGIR UR4294, UFR de Pharmacie, Université de Picardie Jules Verne, Amiens. France
| | | | | | - Pascal Sonnet
- AGIR UR4294, UFR de Pharmacie, Université de Picardie Jules Verne, Amiens. France
| |
Collapse
|
7
|
Watson DJ, Laing L, Gibhard L, Wong HN, Haynes RK, Wiesner L. Toward New Transmission-Blocking Combination Therapies: Pharmacokinetics of 10-Amino-Artemisinins and 11-Aza-Artemisinin and Comparison with Dihydroartemisinin and Artemether. Antimicrob Agents Chemother 2021; 65:e0099021. [PMID: 34097488 PMCID: PMC8284440 DOI: 10.1128/aac.00990-21] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/16/2021] [Accepted: 05/17/2021] [Indexed: 11/20/2022] Open
Abstract
As artemisinin combination therapies (ACTs) are compromised by resistance, we are evaluating triple combination therapies (TACTs) comprising an amino-artemisinin, a redox drug, and a third drug with a different mode of action. Thus, here we briefly review efficacy data on artemisone, artemiside, other amino-artemisinins, and 11-aza-artemisinin and conduct absorption, distribution, and metabolism and excretion (ADME) profiling in vitro and pharmacokinetic (PK) profiling in vivo via intravenous (i.v.) and oral (p.o.) administration to mice. The sulfamide derivative has a notably long murine microsomal half-life (t1/2 > 150 min), low intrinsic liver clearance and total plasma clearance rates (CLint 189.4, CLtot 32.2 ml/min/kg), and high relative bioavailability (F = 59%). Kinetics are somewhat similar for 11-aza-artemisinin (t1/2 > 150 min, CLint = 576.9, CLtot = 75.0 ml/min/kg), although bioavailability is lower (F = 14%). In contrast, artemether is rapidly metabolized to dihydroartemisinin (DHA) (t1/2 = 17.4 min) and eliminated (CLint = 855.0, CLtot = 119.7 ml/min/kg) and has low oral bioavailability (F) of 2%. While artemisone displays low t1/2 of <10 min and high CLint of 302.1, it displays a low CLtot of 42.3 ml/min/kg and moderate bioavailability (F) of 32%. Its active metabolite M1 displays a much-improved t1/2 of >150 min and a reduced CLint of 37.4 ml/min/kg. Artemiside has t1/2 of 12.4 min, CLint of 673.9, and CLtot of 129.7 ml/kg/min, likely a reflection of its surprisingly rapid metabolism to artemisone, reported here for the first time. DHA is not formed from any amino-artemisinin. Overall, the efficacy and PK data strongly support the development of selected amino-artemisinins as components of new TACTs.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Daniel J. Watson
- Division of Clinical Pharmacology, Department of Medicine, University of Cape Town, Cape Town, South Africa
| | - Lizahn Laing
- Division of Clinical Pharmacology, Department of Medicine, University of Cape Town, Cape Town, South Africa
| | - Liezl Gibhard
- H3D, Department of Chemistry, University of Cape Town, Cape Town, South Africa
| | - Ho Ning Wong
- Centre of Excellence for Pharmaceutical Sciences, Faculty of Health Sciences, North-West University, Potchefstroom, South Africa
| | - Richard K. Haynes
- Centre of Excellence for Pharmaceutical Sciences, Faculty of Health Sciences, North-West University, Potchefstroom, South Africa
| | - Lubbe Wiesner
- Division of Clinical Pharmacology, Department of Medicine, University of Cape Town, Cape Town, South Africa
| |
Collapse
|
8
|
Zech J, Dzikowski R, Simantov K, Golenser J, Mäder K. Transdermal delivery of artemisinins for treatment of pre-clinical cerebral malaria. INTERNATIONAL JOURNAL FOR PARASITOLOGY-DRUGS AND DRUG RESISTANCE 2021; 16:148-154. [PMID: 34116478 PMCID: PMC8203570 DOI: 10.1016/j.ijpddr.2021.05.008] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/13/2021] [Revised: 05/21/2021] [Accepted: 05/26/2021] [Indexed: 11/16/2022]
Abstract
Transdermal drug delivery avoids complications related to oral or parenteral delivery - the need for sterility, contamination, gastrointestinal side effects, patient unconsciousness or nausea and compliance. For malaria treatment, we demonstrate successful novel transdermal delivery of artemisone (ART) and artesunate. The incorporation of ART into a microemulsion (ME) overcomes the limitations of the lipophilic drug and provides high transcutaneous bioavailability. ART delivery to the blood (above 500 ng/ml) was proved by examining the sera from treated mice, using a bioassay in cultured Plasmodium falciparum. Skin spraying of ART-ME eliminated P. berghei ANKA in an infected mouse model of cerebral malaria (CM) and prevented CM, even after a late treatment with a relatively small amount of ART (13.3 mg/kg). For comparison, the artesunate (the most used commercial artemisinin) formulation was prepared as ART. However, ART-ME was about three times more efficient than artesunate-ME. The solubility and stability of ART in the ME, taken together with the successful transdermal delivery leading to animal recovery, suggest this formulation as a potential candidate for transdermal treatment of malaria.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Johanna Zech
- Institute of Pharmacy, Martin Luther University Halle-Wittenberg, Kurt-Mothes-Str. 3, 06120, Halle (Saale), Germany
| | - Ron Dzikowski
- Department of Microbiology and Molecular Genetics, The Kuvin Centre for the Study of Infectious and Tropical Diseases, The Hebrew University of Jerusalem, Ein Kerem, Jerusalem, 91120, Israel
| | - Karina Simantov
- Department of Microbiology and Molecular Genetics, The Kuvin Centre for the Study of Infectious and Tropical Diseases, The Hebrew University of Jerusalem, Ein Kerem, Jerusalem, 91120, Israel
| | - Jacob Golenser
- Department of Microbiology and Molecular Genetics, The Kuvin Centre for the Study of Infectious and Tropical Diseases, The Hebrew University of Jerusalem, Ein Kerem, Jerusalem, 91120, Israel.
| | - Karsten Mäder
- Institute of Pharmacy, Martin Luther University Halle-Wittenberg, Kurt-Mothes-Str. 3, 06120, Halle (Saale), Germany.
| |
Collapse
|
9
|
Sharma B, Singh P, Singh AK, Awasthi SK. Advancement of chimeric hybrid drugs to cure malaria infection: An overview with special emphasis on endoperoxide pharmacophores. Eur J Med Chem 2021; 219:113408. [PMID: 33989911 DOI: 10.1016/j.ejmech.2021.113408] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/14/2020] [Revised: 03/19/2021] [Accepted: 03/19/2021] [Indexed: 12/27/2022]
Abstract
Emergence and spread of Plasmodium falciparum resistant to artemisinin-based combination therapy has led to a situation of haste in the scientific and pharmaceutical communities. Sincere efforts are redirected towards finding alternative chemotherapeutic agents that are capable of combating multidrug-resistant parasite strains. Extensive research yielded the concept of "Chimeric Bitherapy (CB)" which involves the linking of two molecules with individual pharmacological activity and exhibit dual mode of action into a single hybrid molecule. Current research in this field seems to endorse hybrid molecules as the next-generation antimalarial drugs and are more effective compared to the multi-component drugs because of the lower occurrence of drug-drug adverse effects. This review is an attempt to congregate complete survey on endoperoxide based hybrid antiplasmodial molecules that will give glimpse on the future directions for successful development and discovery of useful antimalarial hybrid drugs.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Bhawana Sharma
- Chemical Biology Laboratory, Department of Chemistry, University of Delhi, Delhi 110007, India
| | - Preeti Singh
- Chemical Biology Laboratory, Department of Chemistry, University of Delhi, Delhi 110007, India
| | - Ashawani Kumar Singh
- Chemical Biology Laboratory, Department of Chemistry, University of Delhi, Delhi 110007, India
| | - Satish K Awasthi
- Chemical Biology Laboratory, Department of Chemistry, University of Delhi, Delhi 110007, India.
| |
Collapse
|
10
|
Zech J, Salaymeh N, Hunt NH, Mäder K, Golenser J. Efficient Treatment of Experimental Cerebral Malaria by an Artemisone-SMEDDS System: Impact of Application Route and Dosing Frequency. Antimicrob Agents Chemother 2021; 65:e02106-20. [PMID: 33558284 PMCID: PMC8097435 DOI: 10.1128/aac.02106-20] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/03/2020] [Accepted: 01/28/2021] [Indexed: 11/24/2022] Open
Abstract
Artemisone (ART) has been successfully tested in vitro and in animal models against several diseases. However, its poor aqueous solubility and limited chemical stability are serious challenges. We developed a self-microemulsifying drug delivery system (SMEDDS) that overcomes these limitations. Here, we demonstrate the efficacy of this formulation against experimental cerebral malaria in mice and the impact of its administration using different routes (gavage, intranasal delivery, and parenteral injections) and frequency on the efficacy of the treatment. The minimal effective daily oral dose was 20 mg/kg. We found that splitting a dose of 20 mg/kg ART given every 24 h, by administering two doses of 10 mg/kg each every 12 h, was highly effective and gave far superior results compared to 20 mg/kg once daily. We obtained the best results with nasal treatment; oral treatment was ranked second, and the least effective route of administration was intraperitoneal injection. A complete cure of experimental cerebral malaria could be achieved through choosing the optimal route of application, dose, and dosing interval. Altogether, the developed formulation combines easy manufacturing with high stability and could be a successful and very versatile carrier for the delivery of ART in the treatment of human severe malaria.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Johanna Zech
- Institute of Pharmacy, Martin Luther University Halle-Wittenberg, Halle (Saale), Germany
| | - Nadeen Salaymeh
- Department of Microbiology and Molecular Genetics, The Kuvin Centre for the Study of Infectious and Tropical Diseases, The Hebrew University of Jerusalem, Jerusalem, Israel
| | - Nicholas H Hunt
- Discipline of Pathology, School of Medical Sciences, Faculty of Medicine and Health, The University of Sydney, NSW, Australia
| | - Karsten Mäder
- Institute of Pharmacy, Martin Luther University Halle-Wittenberg, Halle (Saale), Germany
| | - Jacob Golenser
- Department of Microbiology and Molecular Genetics, The Kuvin Centre for the Study of Infectious and Tropical Diseases, The Hebrew University of Jerusalem, Jerusalem, Israel
| |
Collapse
|
11
|
Patel OPS, Beteck RM, Legoabe LJ. Exploration of artemisinin derivatives and synthetic peroxides in antimalarial drug discovery research. Eur J Med Chem 2021; 213:113193. [PMID: 33508479 DOI: 10.1016/j.ejmech.2021.113193] [Citation(s) in RCA: 18] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/05/2020] [Revised: 12/04/2020] [Accepted: 01/11/2021] [Indexed: 12/22/2022]
Abstract
Malaria is a life-threatening infectious disease caused by protozoal parasites belonging to the genus Plasmodium. It caused an estimated 405,000 deaths and 228 million malaria cases globally in 2018 as per the World Malaria Report released by World Health Organization (WHO) in 2019. Artemisinin (ART), a "Nobel medicine" and its derivatives have proven potential application in antimalarial drug discovery programs. In this review, antimalarial activity of the most active artemisinin derivatives modified at C-10/C-11/C-16/C-6 positions and synthetic peroxides (endoperoxides, 1,2,4-trioxolanes, 1,2,4-trioxanes, and 1,2,4,5-tetraoxanes) are systematically summarized. The developmental trend of ART derivatives, and cyclic peroxides along with their antimalarial activity and how the activity is affected by structural variations on different sites of the compounds are discussed. This compilation would be very useful towards scaffold hopping aimed at avoiding the unnecessary complexity in cyclic peroxides, and ultimately act as a handy resource for the development of potential chemotherapeutics against Plasmodium species.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Om P S Patel
- Centre of Excellence for Pharmaceutical Sciences, North-West University, Private Bag X6001, Potchefstroom, 2520, South Africa.
| | - Richard M Beteck
- Centre of Excellence for Pharmaceutical Sciences, North-West University, Private Bag X6001, Potchefstroom, 2520, South Africa
| | - Lesetja J Legoabe
- Centre of Excellence for Pharmaceutical Sciences, North-West University, Private Bag X6001, Potchefstroom, 2520, South Africa.
| |
Collapse
|
12
|
Cao R, Hu H, Li Y, Wang X, Xu M, Liu J, Zhang H, Yan Y, Zhao L, Li W, Zhang T, Xiao D, Guo X, Li Y, Yang J, Hu Z, Wang M, Zhong W. Anti-SARS-CoV-2 Potential of Artemisinins In Vitro. ACS Infect Dis 2020; 6:2524-2531. [PMID: 32786284 PMCID: PMC7437450 DOI: 10.1021/acsinfecdis.0c00522] [Citation(s) in RCA: 101] [Impact Index Per Article: 25.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/21/2020] [Indexed: 12/12/2022]
Abstract
The discovery of novel drug candidates with anti-severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2 (SARS-CoV-2) potential is critical for the control of the global COVID-19 pandemic. Artemisinin, an old antimalarial drug derived from Chinese herbs, has saved millions of lives. Artemisinins are a cluster of artemisinin-related drugs developed for the treatment of malaria and have been reported to have multiple pharmacological activities, including anticancer, antiviral, and immune modulation. Considering the reported broad-spectrum antiviral potential of artemisinins, researchers are interested in whether they could be used to combat COVID-19. We systematically evaluated the anti-SARS-CoV-2 activities of nine artemisinin-related compounds in vitro and carried out a time-of-drug-addition assay to explore their antiviral mode of action. Finally, a pharmacokinetic prediction model was established to predict the therapeutic potential of selected compounds against COVID-19. Arteannuin B showed the highest anti-SARS-CoV-2 potential with an EC50 of 10.28 ± 1.12 μM. Artesunate and dihydroartemisinin showed similar EC50 values of 12.98 ± 5.30 μM and 13.31 ± 1.24 μM, respectively, which could be clinically achieved in plasma after intravenous administration. Interestingly, although an EC50 of 23.17 ± 3.22 μM was not prominent among the tested compounds, lumefantrine showed therapeutic promise due to high plasma and lung drug concentrations after multiple dosing. Further mode of action analysis revealed that arteannuin B and lumefantrine acted at the post-entry step of SARS-CoV-2 infection. This research highlights the anti-SARS-CoV-2 potential of artemisinins and provides leading candidates for anti-SARS-CoV-2 drug research and development.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Ruiyuan Cao
- National Engineering Research Center
for the Emergency Drug, Beijing Institute of Pharmacology
and Toxicology, Beijing 100850,
China
| | - Hengrui Hu
- State Key Laboratory of Virology,
Wuhan Institute of Virology, Center for Biosafety Mega-Science,
Chinese Academy of Sciences, Wuhan
430071, P. R. China
- University of the Chinese
Academy of Sciences, Beijing 100049, P.
R. China
| | - Yufeng Li
- State Key Laboratory of Virology,
Wuhan Institute of Virology, Center for Biosafety Mega-Science,
Chinese Academy of Sciences, Wuhan
430071, P. R. China
- University of the Chinese
Academy of Sciences, Beijing 100049, P.
R. China
| | - Xi Wang
- State Key Laboratory of Virology,
Wuhan Institute of Virology, Center for Biosafety Mega-Science,
Chinese Academy of Sciences, Wuhan
430071, P. R. China
| | - Mingyue Xu
- State Key Laboratory of Virology,
Wuhan Institute of Virology, Center for Biosafety Mega-Science,
Chinese Academy of Sciences, Wuhan
430071, P. R. China
- University of the Chinese
Academy of Sciences, Beijing 100049, P.
R. China
| | - Jia Liu
- State Key Laboratory of Virology,
Wuhan Institute of Virology, Center for Biosafety Mega-Science,
Chinese Academy of Sciences, Wuhan
430071, P. R. China
| | - Huanyu Zhang
- State Key Laboratory of Virology,
Wuhan Institute of Virology, Center for Biosafety Mega-Science,
Chinese Academy of Sciences, Wuhan
430071, P. R. China
- University of the Chinese
Academy of Sciences, Beijing 100049, P.
R. China
| | - Yunzheng Yan
- National Engineering Research Center
for the Emergency Drug, Beijing Institute of Pharmacology
and Toxicology, Beijing 100850,
China
| | - Lei Zhao
- National Engineering Research Center
for the Emergency Drug, Beijing Institute of Pharmacology
and Toxicology, Beijing 100850,
China
| | - Wei Li
- National Engineering Research Center
for the Emergency Drug, Beijing Institute of Pharmacology
and Toxicology, Beijing 100850,
China
| | - Tianhong Zhang
- National Engineering Research Center
for the Emergency Drug, Beijing Institute of Pharmacology
and Toxicology, Beijing 100850,
China
- Guoke Excellence
(Beijing) Medicine Technology Research Co., Ltd.,
Beijing 100176, P. R. China
| | - Dian Xiao
- National Engineering Research Center
for the Emergency Drug, Beijing Institute of Pharmacology
and Toxicology, Beijing 100850,
China
| | - Xiaojia Guo
- National Engineering Research Center
for the Emergency Drug, Beijing Institute of Pharmacology
and Toxicology, Beijing 100850,
China
| | - Yuexiang Li
- National Engineering Research Center
for the Emergency Drug, Beijing Institute of Pharmacology
and Toxicology, Beijing 100850,
China
| | - Jingjing Yang
- National Engineering Research Center
for the Emergency Drug, Beijing Institute of Pharmacology
and Toxicology, Beijing 100850,
China
| | - Zhihong Hu
- State Key Laboratory of Virology,
Wuhan Institute of Virology, Center for Biosafety Mega-Science,
Chinese Academy of Sciences, Wuhan
430071, P. R. China
| | - Manli Wang
- State Key Laboratory of Virology,
Wuhan Institute of Virology, Center for Biosafety Mega-Science,
Chinese Academy of Sciences, Wuhan
430071, P. R. China
| | - Wu Zhong
- National Engineering Research Center
for the Emergency Drug, Beijing Institute of Pharmacology
and Toxicology, Beijing 100850,
China
| |
Collapse
|
13
|
Golenser J, Salaymeh N, Higazi AA, Alyan M, Daif M, Dzikowski R, Domb AJ. Treatment of Experimental Cerebral Malaria by Slow Release of Artemisone From Injectable Pasty Formulation. Front Pharmacol 2020; 11:846. [PMID: 32595499 PMCID: PMC7303303 DOI: 10.3389/fphar.2020.00846] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/20/2020] [Accepted: 05/22/2020] [Indexed: 12/26/2022] Open
Abstract
Malaria caused by Plasmodium falciparum causes numerous cases of morbidity with about 400,000 deaths yearly owing, mainly, to inflammation leading to cerebral malaria (CM). CM conventionally is treated by repetitive administration of anti-plasmodial drugs and supportive non-specific drugs, for about a week. A mouse model of CM caused by Plasmodium berghei ANKA, in which brain and systemic clinical pathologies occur followed by sudden death within about a week, was used to study the effect of artemisone, a relatively new artemisinin, within an injectable pasty polymer formulated for its controlled release. The parasites were exposed to the drug over several days at a non-toxic concentrations for the mice but high enough to affect the parasites. Artemisone was also tested in cultures of bacteria, cancer cells and P. falciparum to evaluate the specificity and suitability of these cells for examining the release of artemisone from its carrier. Cultures of P. falciparum were the most suitable. Artemisone released from subcutaneous injected poly(sebacic acid-ricinoleic acid) (PSARA) pasty polymer, reduced parasitemias in infected mice, prolonged survival and prevented death in most of the infected mice. Successful prophylactic treatment before infection proved that there was a slow release of the drug for about a week, which contrasts with the three hour half-life that occurs after injection of just the drug. Treatment with artemisone within the polymer, even at a late stage of the disease, helped to prevent or, at least, delay accompanying severe symptoms. In some cases, treatment prevented death of CM and the mice died later of anemia. Postponing the severe clinical symptoms is also beneficial in cases of human malaria, giving more time for an appropriate diagnosis and treatment before severe symptoms appear. The method presented here may also be useful for combination therapy of anti-plasmodial and immunomodulatory drugs.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Jacob Golenser
- Department of Microbiology and Molecular Genetics, The Kuvin Centre for the Study of Infectious and Tropical Diseases, Faculty of Medicine, the Hebrew University (HU), Jerusalem, Israel
| | - Nadeen Salaymeh
- Department of Microbiology and Molecular Genetics, The Kuvin Centre for the Study of Infectious and Tropical Diseases, Faculty of Medicine, the Hebrew University (HU), Jerusalem, Israel
| | | | - Mohammed Alyan
- Department of Microbiology and Molecular Genetics, The Kuvin Centre for the Study of Infectious and Tropical Diseases, Faculty of Medicine, the Hebrew University (HU), Jerusalem, Israel
- Faculty of Medicine, School of Pharmacy, Institute of Drug Research, HU, Jerusalem, Israel
| | - Mahran Daif
- Faculty of Medicine, School of Pharmacy, Institute of Drug Research, HU, Jerusalem, Israel
| | - Ron Dzikowski
- Department of Microbiology and Molecular Genetics, The Kuvin Centre for the Study of Infectious and Tropical Diseases, Faculty of Medicine, the Hebrew University (HU), Jerusalem, Israel
| | - Abraham J. Domb
- Faculty of Medicine, School of Pharmacy, Institute of Drug Research, HU, Jerusalem, Israel
| |
Collapse
|
14
|
Bagheri AR, Golenser J, Greiner A. Controlled and manageable release of antimalarial Artemisone by encapsulation in biodegradable carriers. Eur Polym J 2020. [DOI: 10.1016/j.eurpolymj.2020.109625] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/24/2022]
|
15
|
Vanka R, Nakka VP, Kumar SP, Baruah UK, Babu PP. Molecular targets in cerebral malaria for developing novel therapeutic strategies. Brain Res Bull 2020; 157:100-107. [PMID: 32006570 DOI: 10.1016/j.brainresbull.2020.01.020] [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: 01/23/2020] [Accepted: 01/27/2020] [Indexed: 10/25/2022]
Abstract
Cerebral malaria (CM) is the severe neurological complication associated with Plasmodium falciparum infection. In clinical settings CM is predominantly characterized by fever, epileptic seizures, and asexual forms of parasite on blood smears, coma and even death. Cognitive impairment in the children and adults even after survival is one of the striking consequences of CM. Poor diagnosis often leads to inappropriate malaria therapy which in turn progress into a severe form of disease. Activation of multiple cell death pathways such as Inflammation, oxidative stress, apoptosis and disruption of blood brain barrier (BBB) plays critical role in the pathogenesis of CM and secondary brain damage. Thus, understanding such mechanisms of neuronal cell death might help to identify potential molecular targets for CM. Mitigation strategies for mortality rate and long-term cognitive deficits caused by existing anti-malarial drugs still remains a valid research question to ask. In this review, we discuss in detail about critical neuronal cell death mechanisms and the overall significance of adjunctive therapy with recent trends, which provides better insight towards establishing newer therapeutic strategies for CM.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Ravisankar Vanka
- Department of Pharmaceutics, Aditya Pharmacy College, Suramaplem, Gandepalli Mandal, East Godavari, Andhra Pradesh, 533437, India
| | - Venkata Prasuja Nakka
- Department of Biochemistry, Acharya Nagarjuna University, Nagarjuna Nagar, Guntur, Andhra Pradesh, 522510, India
| | - Simhadri Praveen Kumar
- Department of Biotechnology and Bioinformatics, School of life Sciences, University of Hyderabad, Hyderabad, Telangana, 500046, India
| | - Uday Krishna Baruah
- Department of Pharmaceutics, JSS College of Pharmacy, Ooty, Tamil Nadu 643001, India
| | - Phanithi Prakash Babu
- Department of Biotechnology and Bioinformatics, School of life Sciences, University of Hyderabad, Hyderabad, 500046, Telangana, India.
| |
Collapse
|
16
|
Tiwari MK, Chaudhary S. Artemisinin-derived antimalarial endoperoxides from bench-side to bed-side: Chronological advancements and future challenges. Med Res Rev 2020; 40:1220-1275. [PMID: 31930540 DOI: 10.1002/med.21657] [Citation(s) in RCA: 24] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/10/2019] [Revised: 11/21/2019] [Accepted: 12/17/2019] [Indexed: 12/14/2022]
Abstract
According to WHO World Malaria Report (2018), nearly 219 million new cases of malaria occurred and a total no. of 435 000 people died in 2017 due to this infectious disease. This is due to the rapid spread of parasite-resistant strains. Artemisinin (ART), a sesquiterpene lactone endoperoxide isolated from traditional Chinese herb Artemisia annua, has been recognized as a novel class of antimalarial drugs. The 2015 "Nobel Prize in Physiology or Medicine" was given to Prof Dr Tu Youyou for the discovery of ART. Hence, ART is termed as "Nobel medicine." The present review article accommodates insights from the chronological advancements and direct statistics witnessed during the past 48 years (1971-2019) in the medicinal chemistry of ART-derived antimalarial endoperoxides, and their clinical utility in malaria chemotherapy and drug discovery.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Mohit K Tiwari
- Laboratory of Organic and Medicinal Chemistry, Department of Chemistry, Malaviya National Institute of Technology Jaipur, Jaipur, India
| | - Sandeep Chaudhary
- Laboratory of Organic and Medicinal Chemistry, Department of Chemistry, Malaviya National Institute of Technology Jaipur, Jaipur, India
| |
Collapse
|
17
|
Wong HN, Padín-Irizarry V, van der Watt ME, Reader J, Liebenberg W, Wiesner L, Smith P, Eribez K, Winzeler EA, Kyle DE, Birkholtz LM, Coertzen D, Haynes RK. Optimal 10-Aminoartemisinins With Potent Transmission-Blocking Capabilities for New Artemisinin Combination Therapies-Activities Against Blood Stage P. falciparum Including PfKI3 C580Y Mutants and Liver Stage P. berghei Parasites. Front Chem 2020; 7:901. [PMID: 31998692 PMCID: PMC6967409 DOI: 10.3389/fchem.2019.00901] [Citation(s) in RCA: 14] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/01/2019] [Accepted: 12/13/2019] [Indexed: 12/31/2022] Open
Abstract
We have demonstrated previously that amino-artemisinins including artemiside and artemisone in which an amino group replaces the oxygen-bearing substituents attached to C-10 of the current clinical artemisinin derivatives dihydroartemisinin (DHA), artemether and artesunate, display potent activities in vitro against the asexual blood stages of Plasmodium falciparum (Pf). In particular, the compounds are active against late blood stage Pf gametocytes, and are strongly synergistic in combination with the redox active drug methylene blue. In order to fortify the eventual selection of optimum amino-artemisinins for development into new triple combination therapies also active against artemisinin-resistant Pf mutants, we have prepared new amino-artemisinins based on the easily accessible and inexpensive DHA-piperazine. The latter was converted into alkyl- and aryl sulfonamides, ureas and amides. These derivatives were screened together with the comparator drugs DHA and the hitherto most active amino-artemisinins artemiside and artemisone against asexual and sexual blood stages of Pf and liver stage P. berghei (Pb) sporozoites. Several of the new amino-artemisinins bearing aryl-urea and -amide groups are potently active against both asexual, and late blood stage gametocytes (IC50 0.4-1.0 nM). Although the activities are superior to those of artemiside (IC50 1.5 nM) and artemisone (IC50 42.4 nM), the latter are more active against the liver stage Pb sporozoites (IC50 artemisone 28 nM). In addition, early results indicate these compounds tend not to display reduced susceptibility against parasites bearing the Pf Kelch 13 propeller domain C580Y mutation characteristic of artemisinin-resistant Pf. Thus, the advent of the amino-artemisinins including artemiside and artemisone will enable the development of new combination therapies that by virtue of the amino-artemisinin component itself will possess intrinsic transmission-blocking capabilities and may be effective against artemisinin resistant falciparum malaria.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Ho Ning Wong
- Centre of Excellence for Pharmaceutical Sciences, Faculty of Health Sciences, North-West University, Potchefstroom, South Africa
| | - Vivian Padín-Irizarry
- Center for Tropical & Emerging Global Diseases, Coverdell Center, University of Georgia, Athens, GA, United States
| | - Mariëtte E van der Watt
- Malaria Parasite Molecular Laboratory, Department of Biochemistry, Genetics and Microbiology, Institute for Sustainable Malaria Control, University of Pretoria, Pretoria, South Africa
| | - Janette Reader
- Malaria Parasite Molecular Laboratory, Department of Biochemistry, Genetics and Microbiology, Institute for Sustainable Malaria Control, University of Pretoria, Pretoria, South Africa
| | - Wilna Liebenberg
- Centre of Excellence for Pharmaceutical Sciences, Faculty of Health Sciences, North-West University, Potchefstroom, South Africa
| | - Lubbe Wiesner
- Division of Clinical Pharmacology, Department of Medicine, Groote Schuur Hospital, University of Cape Town, Cape Town, South Africa
| | - Peter Smith
- Division of Clinical Pharmacology, Department of Medicine, Groote Schuur Hospital, University of Cape Town, Cape Town, South Africa
| | - Korina Eribez
- School of Medicine, University of California, San Diego, La Jolla, CA, United States
| | - Elizabeth A Winzeler
- School of Medicine, University of California, San Diego, La Jolla, CA, United States
| | - Dennis E Kyle
- Center for Tropical & Emerging Global Diseases, Coverdell Center, University of Georgia, Athens, GA, United States
| | - Lyn-Marie Birkholtz
- Malaria Parasite Molecular Laboratory, Department of Biochemistry, Genetics and Microbiology, Institute for Sustainable Malaria Control, University of Pretoria, Pretoria, South Africa
| | - Dina Coertzen
- Malaria Parasite Molecular Laboratory, Department of Biochemistry, Genetics and Microbiology, Institute for Sustainable Malaria Control, University of Pretoria, Pretoria, South Africa
| | - Richard K Haynes
- Centre of Excellence for Pharmaceutical Sciences, Faculty of Health Sciences, North-West University, Potchefstroom, South Africa
| |
Collapse
|
18
|
Weinstock A, Gallego-Delgado J, Gomes C, Sherman J, Nikain C, Gonzalez S, Fisher E, Rodriguez A. Tamoxifen activity against Plasmodium in vitro and in mice. Malar J 2019; 18:378. [PMID: 31775753 PMCID: PMC6882195 DOI: 10.1186/s12936-019-3012-7] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/30/2019] [Accepted: 11/16/2019] [Indexed: 11/10/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Tamoxifen is an oestrogen receptor modulator that is widely used for the treatment of early stage breast cancer and reduction of recurrences. Tamoxifen is also used as a powerful research tool for controlling gene expression in the context of the Cre/loxP site-specific recombination system in conditional mutant mice. METHODS To determine whether the administration of tamoxifen affects Plasmodium growth and/or disease outcome in malaria, in vitro studies assessing the effect of tamoxifen and its active metabolite 4-hydroxytamoxifen on Plasmodium falciparum blood stages were performed. Tamoxifen effects were also evaluated in vivo treating C57/B6 mice infected with Plasmodium berghei (ANKA strain), which is the standard animal model for the study of cerebral malaria. RESULTS Tamoxifen and its active metabolite, 4-hydroxytamoxifen, show activity in vitro against P. falciparum (16.7 to 5.8 µM IC50, respectively). This activity was also confirmed in tamoxifen-treated mice infected with P. berghei, which show lower levels of parasitaemia and do not develop signs of cerebral malaria, compared to control mice. Mice treated with tamoxifen for 1 week and left untreated for an additional week before infection showed similar parasitaemia levels and signs of cerebral malaria as control untreated mice. CONCLUSIONS Tamoxifen and its active metabolite, 4-hydroxytamoxifen, have significant activity against the human parasite P. falciparum in vitro and the rodent parasite P. berghei in vivo. This activity may be useful for prevention of malaria in patients taking this drug chronically, but also represents a major problem for scientists using the conditional mutagenic Cre/LoxP system in the setting of rodent malaria. Allowing mice to clear tamoxifen before starting a Plasmodium infection allows the use the Cre/LoxP conditional mutagenic system to investigate gene function in specific tissues.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Ada Weinstock
- Departments of Medicine (Cardiology) and Cell Biology, and the Marc and Ruti Bell Program in Vascular Biology, New York University School of Medicine, New York, NY, 10016, USA
| | - Julio Gallego-Delgado
- Department of Biological Sciences, Lehman College, City University of New York, Bronx, New York, NY, 10468, USA.
- Ph.D. Program in Biology, The Graduate Center, The City University of New York, New York, NY, 10016, USA.
- Department of Microbiology, New York University School of Medicine, New York, NY, 10016, USA.
| | - Cláudia Gomes
- Department of Microbiology, New York University School of Medicine, New York, NY, 10016, USA
| | - Julian Sherman
- Department of Microbiology, New York University School of Medicine, New York, NY, 10016, USA
| | - Cyrus Nikain
- Departments of Medicine (Cardiology) and Cell Biology, and the Marc and Ruti Bell Program in Vascular Biology, New York University School of Medicine, New York, NY, 10016, USA
| | - Sandra Gonzalez
- Department of Microbiology, New York University School of Medicine, New York, NY, 10016, USA
| | - Edward Fisher
- Departments of Medicine (Cardiology) and Cell Biology, and the Marc and Ruti Bell Program in Vascular Biology, New York University School of Medicine, New York, NY, 10016, USA
| | - Ana Rodriguez
- Department of Microbiology, New York University School of Medicine, New York, NY, 10016, USA
| |
Collapse
|
19
|
Gomes PS, Tanghe S, Gallego-Delgado J, Conde L, Freire-de-Lima L, Lima AC, Freire-de-Lima CG, Lima Junior JDC, Moreira O, Totino P, Rodriguez A, Todeschini AR, Morrot A. Targeting the Hexosamine Biosynthetic Pathway Prevents Plasmodium Developmental Cycle and Disease Pathology in Vertebrate Host. Front Microbiol 2019; 10:305. [PMID: 30873136 PMCID: PMC6403127 DOI: 10.3389/fmicb.2019.00305] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/17/2018] [Accepted: 02/05/2019] [Indexed: 11/13/2022] Open
Abstract
Cerebral malaria (CM) is a clinical syndrome involving irreversible and lethal signs of brain injury associated to infection by parasites of the genus Plasmodium. The pathogenesis of CM derives from infection-induced proinflammatory cytokines associated with cytoadherence of parasitized red blood cells to brain microvasculature. Glycoconjugates are very abundant in the surface of Plasmodium spp., and are critical mediators of parasite virulence in host–pathogen interactions. Herein, we show that 6-Diazo-5-oxo-L-norleucine (DON) therapeutically used for blocking hexosamine biosynthetic pathway leads to recovery in experimental murine cerebral malaria. DON-induced protection was associated with decreased parasitism, which severely reduced Plasmodium transmission to mosquitoes. These findings point to a potential use of DON in combination therapies against malaria.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Pollyanna Stephanie Gomes
- Centro de Pesquisas em Tuberculose, Instituto de Microbiologia, Faculdade de Medicina, Universidade Federal do Rio de Janeiro, Rio de Janeiro, Brazil
| | - Scott Tanghe
- Division of Parasitology, Department of Microbiology, New York University School of Medicine, New York City, NY, United States
| | - Julio Gallego-Delgado
- Division of Parasitology, Department of Microbiology, New York University School of Medicine, New York City, NY, United States
| | - Luciana Conde
- Centro de Pesquisas em Tuberculose, Instituto de Microbiologia, Faculdade de Medicina, Universidade Federal do Rio de Janeiro, Rio de Janeiro, Brazil
| | - Leonardo Freire-de-Lima
- Instituto de Biofísica Carlos Chagas Filho IBCCF, Universidade Federal do Rio de Janeiro, Rio de Janeiro, Brazil
| | | | - Célio Geraldo Freire-de-Lima
- Instituto de Biofísica Carlos Chagas Filho IBCCF, Universidade Federal do Rio de Janeiro, Rio de Janeiro, Brazil
| | | | | | - Paulo Totino
- Instituto Oswaldo Cruz, Fiocruz, Rio de Janeiro, Brazil
| | - Ana Rodriguez
- Division of Parasitology, Department of Microbiology, New York University School of Medicine, New York City, NY, United States
| | - Adriane Regina Todeschini
- Laboratório de Glicobiologia Estrutural e Funcional, Instituto de Biofísica Carlos Chagas Filho IBCCF, Universidade Federal do Rio de Janeiro, Rio de Janeiro, Brazil
| | - Alexandre Morrot
- Centro de Pesquisas em Tuberculose, Instituto de Microbiologia, Faculdade de Medicina, Universidade Federal do Rio de Janeiro, Rio de Janeiro, Brazil.,Laboratório de Imunoparasitologia, Instituto Oswaldo Cruz, Fiocruz, Rio de Janeiro, Brazil
| |
Collapse
|
20
|
Niewold P, Cohen A, van Vreden C, Getts DR, Grau GE, King NJC. Experimental severe malaria is resolved by targeting newly-identified monocyte subsets using immune-modifying particles combined with artesunate. Commun Biol 2018; 1:227. [PMID: 30564748 PMCID: PMC6292940 DOI: 10.1038/s42003-018-0216-2] [Citation(s) in RCA: 19] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/09/2018] [Accepted: 10/31/2018] [Indexed: 12/29/2022] Open
Abstract
Current treatment of severe malaria and associated cerebral malaria (CM) and respiratory distress syndromes are directed primarily at the parasite. Targeting the parasite has only partial efficacy in advanced infection, as neurological damage and respiratory distress are due to accumulation of host blood cells in the brain microvasculature and lung interstitium. Here, computational analysis identifies Ly6Clo monocytes as a major component of the immune infiltrate in both organs in a preclinical mouse model. Specifically targeting Ly6Clo monocyte precursors, identified by adoptive transfer, with immune-modifying particles (IMP) prevents experimental CM (ECM) in 50% of Plasmodium berghei ANKA-infected mice in early treatment protocols. Furthermore, treatment at onset of clinical ECM with 2 doses of a novel combination of IMP and anti-malarial drug artesunate results in 88% survival. This combination confers protection against ECM and mortality in late stage severe experimental malaria and provides a viable advance on current treatment regimens.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Paula Niewold
- 1Viral Immunopathology, Discipline of Pathology and Bosch Institute, School of Medical Sciences, Faculty of Medicine and Health, University of Sydney, Camperdown, NSW 2050 Australia
| | - Amy Cohen
- 2Vascular Immunology Unit, Discipline of Pathology and Bosch Institute, School of Medical Sciences, Faculty of Medicine and Health, University of Sydney, Camperdown, NSW 2050 Australia
| | - Caryn van Vreden
- 3Sydney Cytometry, The University of Sydney and The Centenary Institute, Camperdown, NSW 2050 Australia
| | - Daniel R Getts
- 4Department of Microbiology-Immunology and Interdepartmental Immunobiology Center, Feinberg School of Medicine, Northwestern University, Chicago, IL 60611 USA.,TcR2, Therapeutics, 100 Binney Street, Suite 710, Cambridge, MA 02142 USA
| | - Georges E Grau
- 2Vascular Immunology Unit, Discipline of Pathology and Bosch Institute, School of Medical Sciences, Faculty of Medicine and Health, University of Sydney, Camperdown, NSW 2050 Australia
| | - Nicholas J C King
- 1Viral Immunopathology, Discipline of Pathology and Bosch Institute, School of Medical Sciences, Faculty of Medicine and Health, University of Sydney, Camperdown, NSW 2050 Australia.,3Sydney Cytometry, The University of Sydney and The Centenary Institute, Camperdown, NSW 2050 Australia
| |
Collapse
|
21
|
Konstat-Korzenny E, Ascencio-Aragón JA, Niezen-Lugo S, Vázquez-López R. Artemisinin and Its Synthetic Derivatives as a Possible Therapy for Cancer. ACTA ACUST UNITED AC 2018; 6:medsci6010019. [PMID: 29495461 PMCID: PMC5872176 DOI: 10.3390/medsci6010019] [Citation(s) in RCA: 35] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/10/2018] [Revised: 02/15/2018] [Accepted: 02/22/2018] [Indexed: 12/11/2022]
Abstract
To assess the possibility of using the antimalarial drug artemisinin and its synthetic derivatives as antineoplastic drugs. A Pubmed and Google Scholar (1983–2018) search was performed using the terms artemisinin, cancer, artesunate and Artemisia annua. Case reports and original research articles, review articles, and clinical trials in both humans and animals were evaluated. Both in vitro and in vivo clinical trials and case reports have shown promising activity of the artemisinin drug derivatives in treating certain types of cancer. However, the reported articles are few, and therefore not statistically significant. The minimal toxicity shown in clinical trials and case reports, along with the selective cytotoxic activity of the compounds, make them possible cancer therapies due to the emerging evidence of the drug’s effectiveness.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Enrique Konstat-Korzenny
- Departamento de Microbiología del Centro de Investigación en Ciencias de la Salud (CICSA) Facultad de Ciencias de la Salud, Universidad Anáhuac México Campus Norte. Av. Universidad Anáhuac 46 Col. Lomas Anáhuac Huixquilucan, Estado de México 52786, México.
| | - Jorge Alberto Ascencio-Aragón
- Departamento de Microbiología del Centro de Investigación en Ciencias de la Salud (CICSA) Facultad de Ciencias de la Salud, Universidad Anáhuac México Campus Norte. Av. Universidad Anáhuac 46 Col. Lomas Anáhuac Huixquilucan, Estado de México 52786, México.
| | - Sebastian Niezen-Lugo
- Departamento de Microbiología del Centro de Investigación en Ciencias de la Salud (CICSA) Facultad de Ciencias de la Salud, Universidad Anáhuac México Campus Norte. Av. Universidad Anáhuac 46 Col. Lomas Anáhuac Huixquilucan, Estado de México 52786, México.
| | - Rosalino Vázquez-López
- Departamento de Microbiología del Centro de Investigación en Ciencias de la Salud (CICSA) Facultad de Ciencias de la Salud, Universidad Anáhuac México Campus Norte. Av. Universidad Anáhuac 46 Col. Lomas Anáhuac Huixquilucan, Estado de México 52786, México.
| |
Collapse
|
22
|
Harmse R, Wong HN, Smit FJ, Müller J, Hemphill A, N'Da DD, Haynes RK. Activities of 11-Azaartemisinin and N-Sulfonyl Derivatives against Neospora caninum and Comparative Cytotoxicities. ChemMedChem 2017; 12:2094-2098. [PMID: 29210523 DOI: 10.1002/cmdc.201700600] [Citation(s) in RCA: 12] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/26/2017] [Revised: 11/15/2017] [Indexed: 11/09/2022]
Abstract
Neosporosis caused by the apicomplexan parasite Neospora caninum is an economically important disease that induces abortion in dairy and beef cattle. There are no vaccines or drugs available on the market for control or treatment of the disease in bovines. The peroxide artemisinin and its derivatives used clinically for treatment of malaria are active against N. caninum and other apicomplexan parasites. We have now evaluated the activities of the readily accessible and chemically robust 11-azaartemisinin 5 and selected N-sulfonyl derivatives prepared as described in the accompanying paper against N. caninum tachyzoites grown in infected human foreskin fibroblasts. Azaartemisinin elicited an IC50 value of 150 nm, and the 2',5'-dichloro-3'-thienylsulfonyl-11-azaartemisinin 17 was found to be the most active, with an IC50 value of 40 nm. Comparison with normal human fetal lung fibroblasts HFLF WI-38 revealed relatively benign cytotoxicity. The compounds were also screened in vitro against TK-10 (renal), UACC-62 (melanoma) and MCF-7 (breast) cancer cell lines; overall, in line with activities against HFLF cells, most compounds in the series were found to be inactive.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Rozanne Harmse
- Centre of Excellence for Pharmaceutical Sciences, Faculty of Health Sciences, North-West University, Potchefstroom, 2520, South Africa
| | - Ho Ning Wong
- Centre of Excellence for Pharmaceutical Sciences, Faculty of Health Sciences, North-West University, Potchefstroom, 2520, South Africa
| | - Frans J Smit
- Centre of Excellence for Pharmaceutical Sciences, Faculty of Health Sciences, North-West University, Potchefstroom, 2520, South Africa
| | - Joachim Müller
- Institute of Parasitology, Vetsuisse Faculty, University of Berne, Länggass-Strasse 122, 3012, Bern, Switzerland
| | - Andrew Hemphill
- Institute of Parasitology, Vetsuisse Faculty, University of Berne, Länggass-Strasse 122, 3012, Bern, Switzerland
| | - David D N'Da
- Centre of Excellence for Pharmaceutical Sciences, Faculty of Health Sciences, North-West University, Potchefstroom, 2520, South Africa
| | - Richard K Haynes
- Centre of Excellence for Pharmaceutical Sciences, Faculty of Health Sciences, North-West University, Potchefstroom, 2520, South Africa
| |
Collapse
|
23
|
Delport A, Harvey BH, Petzer A, Petzer JP. Methylene blue and its analogues as antidepressant compounds. Metab Brain Dis 2017; 32:1357-1382. [PMID: 28762173 DOI: 10.1007/s11011-017-0081-6] [Citation(s) in RCA: 33] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/15/2017] [Accepted: 07/21/2017] [Indexed: 12/20/2022]
Abstract
Methylene Blue (MB) is considered to have diverse medical applications and is a well-described treatment for methemoglobinemias and ifosfamide-induced encephalopathy. In recent years the focus has shifted to MB as an antimalarial agent and as a potential treatment for neurodegenerative disorders such as Alzheimer's disease. Of interest are reports that MB possesses antidepressant and anxiolytic activity in pre-clinical models and has shown promise in clinical trials for schizophrenia and bipolar disorder. MB is a noteworthy inhibitor of monoamine oxidase A (MAO-A), which is a well-established target for antidepressant action. MB is also recognized as a non-selective inhibitor of nitric oxide synthase (NOS) and guanylate cyclase. Dysfunction of the nitric oxide (NO)-cyclic guanosine monophosphate (cGMP) cascade is strongly linked to the neurobiology of mood, anxiety and psychosis, while the inhibition of NOS and/or guanylate cyclase has been associated with an antidepressant response. This action of MB may contribute significantly to its psychotropic activity. However, these disorders are also characterised by mitochondrial dysfunction and redox imbalance. By acting as an alternative electron acceptor/donor MB restores mitochondrial function, improves neuronal energy production and inhibits the formation of superoxide, effects that also may contribute to its therapeutic activity. Using MB in depression co-morbid with neurodegenerative disorders, like Alzheimer's and Parkinson's disease, also represents a particularly relevant strategy. By considering their physicochemical and pharmacokinetic properties, analogues of MB may provide therapeutic potential as novel multi-target strategies in the treatment of depression. In addition, low MAO-A active analogues may provide equal or improved response with a lower risk of adverse effects.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Anzelle Delport
- Centre of Excellence for Pharmaceutical Sciences, North-West University, Private Bag X6001, Potchefstroom, 2520, South Africa
- Division of Pharmaceutical Chemistry, School of Pharmacy, North-West University, Private Bag X6001, Potchefstroom, 2520, South Africa
| | - Brian H Harvey
- Centre of Excellence for Pharmaceutical Sciences, North-West University, Private Bag X6001, Potchefstroom, 2520, South Africa
- Division of Pharmacology, School of Pharmacy, North-West University, Private Bag X6001, Potchefstroom, 2520, South Africa
| | - Anél Petzer
- Centre of Excellence for Pharmaceutical Sciences, North-West University, Private Bag X6001, Potchefstroom, 2520, South Africa
- Division of Pharmaceutical Chemistry, School of Pharmacy, North-West University, Private Bag X6001, Potchefstroom, 2520, South Africa
| | - Jacobus P Petzer
- Centre of Excellence for Pharmaceutical Sciences, North-West University, Private Bag X6001, Potchefstroom, 2520, South Africa.
- Division of Pharmaceutical Chemistry, School of Pharmacy, North-West University, Private Bag X6001, Potchefstroom, 2520, South Africa.
| |
Collapse
|
24
|
Duan G, Bagheri AR, Jiang S, Golenser J, Agarwal S, Greiner A. Exploration of Macroporous Polymeric Sponges As Drug Carriers. Biomacromolecules 2017; 18:3215-3221. [PMID: 28820944 DOI: 10.1021/acs.biomac.7b00852] [Citation(s) in RCA: 53] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/30/2022]
Abstract
Achieving high drug loading capacity and controlling drug delivery are two main challenges related to drug carriers. In this study, polymeric macroporous sponges with very high pore volume and large porosity are introduced as a new-type of drug carrier. Due to the high pore volume (285 and 166 cm3/g for the sponges with densities of 3.5 and 6.0 mg/cm3, respectively), the sponges exhibit very high drug loading capacities with average values of 1870 ± 114 and 2697 ± 73 mg/g in the present study, which is much higher than the meso and microporous drug carriers (<1500 mg/g). In order to control the release profiles, an additional poly(p-xylylene) (PPX) coating was deposited by chemical vapor deposition on the drug loaded sponge. Consequently, Artemisone (ART) release in the aqueous medium could be retarded, depending on the density of the sponge and the thickness of the coating. In future, the new 3D polymeric sponges would be highly beneficial as drug carriers for the programmed release of drugs for treatment of chronic diseases.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Gaigai Duan
- Macromolecular Chemistry, Bavarian Polymer Institute, University of Bayreuth , Universitätsstrasse 30, 95440 Bayreuth, Germany
| | - Amir Reza Bagheri
- Macromolecular Chemistry, Bavarian Polymer Institute, University of Bayreuth , Universitätsstrasse 30, 95440 Bayreuth, Germany
| | - Shaohua Jiang
- Macromolecular Chemistry, Bavarian Polymer Institute, University of Bayreuth , Universitätsstrasse 30, 95440 Bayreuth, Germany
| | - Jacob Golenser
- Department of Microbiology and Molecular Genetics, The Kuvin Centre for the Study of Infectious and Tropical Diseases, The Hebrew University of Jerusalem , Jerusalem, Israel
| | - Seema Agarwal
- Macromolecular Chemistry, Bavarian Polymer Institute, University of Bayreuth , Universitätsstrasse 30, 95440 Bayreuth, Germany
| | - Andreas Greiner
- Macromolecular Chemistry, Bavarian Polymer Institute, University of Bayreuth , Universitätsstrasse 30, 95440 Bayreuth, Germany
| |
Collapse
|
25
|
Gold D, Alian M, Domb A, Karawani Y, Jbarien M, Chollet J, Haynes RK, Wong HN, Buchholz V, Greiner A, Golenser J. Elimination of Schistosoma mansoni in infected mice by slow release of artemisone. INTERNATIONAL JOURNAL FOR PARASITOLOGY-DRUGS AND DRUG RESISTANCE 2017; 7:241-247. [PMID: 28511056 PMCID: PMC5430492 DOI: 10.1016/j.ijpddr.2017.05.002] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/30/2017] [Revised: 05/01/2017] [Accepted: 05/04/2017] [Indexed: 12/16/2022]
Abstract
The current treatment of schistosomiasis is based on the anti-helminthic drug praziquantel (PZQ). PZQ affects only the adult stages of schistosomes. In addition, resistance to PZQ is emerging. We suggest a drug, which could serve as a potential alternative or complement to PZQ, and as a means of treating infections at earlier, pre-granuloma stage. Derivatives of the peroxidic antimalarial drug artemisinin have been indicated as alternatives, because both plasmodia and schistosomes are blood-feeding parasites. The mechanism of action of artemisinins is related to oxidative effects of the artemisinins on intracellular reductants leading to formation of cytotoxic reactive oxygen species. We used artemisone, which has improved pharmacokinetics and anti-plasmodial activity, and reduced toxicity compared to other artemisinins in clinical use against malaria. We infected adult mice by subcutaneous injection of S. mansoni cercariae (about 200) and treated them at various times post infection by the following methods: i. artemisone suspension administered by gavage (400-450 mg/kg); ii. subcutaneous injection of a gel containing a known concentration of artemisone (115-120 mg/kg); iii. subcutaneous insertion of the drug incorporated in a solid polymer (56-60 mg/kg); iv. intraperitoneal injection of the drug solubilized in DMSO (115-120 mg/kg). Drug administration in polymers was performed to enable slow release of the artemisone that was verified in vivo and in vitro bioassays using drug-sensitive malaria parasites. We found superior strong anti-schistosome effects up to a total reduction of worm number, mainly following repetitive treatments with the drug absorbed in the polymers (73.1% and 95.9% reduction in mice treated with artemisone in gel 7 and 14, and 21, 28 and 35 days post infection, respectively). The results indicate that artemisone has a potent anti-schistosome activity. Its main importance in this context is its effectiveness in treating hosts harboring juvenile schistosomes, before egg-deposition and induction of deleterious immune responses.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Daniel Gold
- Department of Clinical Microbiology and Immunology, Sackler Faculty of Medicine, Tel Aviv University, Israel
| | - Mohammed Alian
- School of Pharmacy, Faculty of Medicine, Hebrew University of Jerusalem, Israel
| | - Avraham Domb
- School of Pharmacy, Faculty of Medicine, Hebrew University of Jerusalem, Israel
| | - Yara Karawani
- The Kuvin Center for the Study of Infectious and Tropical Diseases, The Department of Microbiology and Molecular Genetics, Hebrew University of Jerusalem-Hadassah Medical School, Israel
| | - Maysa Jbarien
- The Kuvin Center for the Study of Infectious and Tropical Diseases, The Department of Microbiology and Molecular Genetics, Hebrew University of Jerusalem-Hadassah Medical School, Israel
| | - Jacques Chollet
- Swiss Tropical Institute, P.O. Box, CH-4002 Basel, Switzerland
| | - Richard K Haynes
- Centre of Excellence for Pharmaceutical Sciences, School of Health Sciences, North-West University, Potchefstroom 2520, South Africa
| | - Ho Ning Wong
- Centre of Excellence for Pharmaceutical Sciences, School of Health Sciences, North-West University, Potchefstroom 2520, South Africa
| | - Viola Buchholz
- Macromolecular Chemistry II, University of Bayreuth, Germany
| | - Andreas Greiner
- Macromolecular Chemistry II, University of Bayreuth, Germany
| | - Jacob Golenser
- The Kuvin Center for the Study of Infectious and Tropical Diseases, The Department of Microbiology and Molecular Genetics, Hebrew University of Jerusalem-Hadassah Medical School, Israel.
| |
Collapse
|
26
|
Golenser J, Buchholz V, Bagheri A, Nasereddin A, Dzikowski R, Guo J, Hunt NH, Eyal S, Vakruk N, Greiner A. Controlled release of artemisone for the treatment of experimental cerebral malaria. Parasit Vectors 2017; 10:117. [PMID: 28249591 PMCID: PMC5333427 DOI: 10.1186/s13071-017-2018-7] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/07/2016] [Accepted: 02/07/2017] [Indexed: 11/24/2022] Open
Abstract
Background Cerebral malaria (CM) is a leading cause of malarial mortality resulting from infection by Plasmodium falciparum. Treatment commonly involves adjunctive care and injections or transfusion of artemisinins. All artemisinins that are in current use are metabolized to dihydroxyartemisinin (DHA), to which there is already some parasite resistance. We used artemisone, a derivative that does not convert to DHA, has improved pharmacokinetics and anti-plasmodial activity and is also anti-inflammatory (an advantage given the immunopathological nature of CM). Methods We examined controlled artemisone release from biodegradable polymers in a mouse CM model. This would improve treatment by exposing the parasites for a longer period to a non-toxic drug concentration, high enough to eliminate the pathogen and prevent CM. The preparations were inserted into mice as prophylaxis, early or late treatment in the disease course. Results The most efficient formulation was a rigid polymer, containing 80 mg/kg artemisone, which cured all of the mice when used as early treatment and 60% of the mice when used as a very late treatment (at which stage all control mice would die of CM within 24 h). In those mice that were not completely cured, relapse followed a latent period of more than seven days. Prophylactic treatment four days prior to the infection prevented CM. We also measured the amount of artemisone released from the rigid polymers using a bioassay with cultured P. falciparum. Significant amounts of artemisone were released throughout at least ten days, in line with the in vivo prophylactic results. Conclusions Overall, we demonstrate, as a proof-of-concept, a controlled-sustained release system of artemisone for treatment of CM. Mice were cured or if treated at a very late stage of the disease, depicted a delay of a week before death. This delay would enable a considerable time window for exact diagnosis and appropriate additional treatment. Identical methods could be used for other parasites that are sensitive to artemisinins (e.g. Toxoplasma gondii and Neospora caninum).
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Jacob Golenser
- Department of Microbiology and Molecular Genetics, The Kuvin Center for the Study of Infectious and Tropical Diseases, The Hebrew University of Jerusalem (HU)-Hadassah Medical School (HMS), Jerusalem, Israel.
| | - Viola Buchholz
- Macromolecular Chemistry II, University of Bayreuth, Universitätsstrasse 30, Bayreuth, Germany
| | - Amir Bagheri
- Macromolecular Chemistry II, University of Bayreuth, Universitätsstrasse 30, Bayreuth, Germany
| | - Abed Nasereddin
- Department of Microbiology and Molecular Genetics, The Kuvin Center for the Study of Infectious and Tropical Diseases, The Hebrew University of Jerusalem (HU)-Hadassah Medical School (HMS), Jerusalem, Israel.,Al-Quds University, Abu Dis, The Palestinian Authority
| | - Ron Dzikowski
- Department of Microbiology and Molecular Genetics, The Kuvin Center for the Study of Infectious and Tropical Diseases, The Hebrew University of Jerusalem (HU)-Hadassah Medical School (HMS), Jerusalem, Israel
| | - Jintao Guo
- Department of Pathology and Bosch Institute, The University of Sydney, Sydney, Australia.,State Key Laboratory of Respiratory Diseases, Guangzhou Institutes of Biomedicine and Health, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Guangzhou, China
| | - Nicholas H Hunt
- Department of Pathology and Bosch Institute, The University of Sydney, Sydney, Australia
| | - Sara Eyal
- Institute of Drug Research, School of Pharmacy, HU-HMS, Jerusalem, Israel
| | - Natalia Vakruk
- Department of Microbiology and Molecular Genetics, The Kuvin Center for the Study of Infectious and Tropical Diseases, The Hebrew University of Jerusalem (HU)-Hadassah Medical School (HMS), Jerusalem, Israel.,Institute of Drug Research, School of Pharmacy, HU-HMS, Jerusalem, Israel
| | - Andreas Greiner
- Macromolecular Chemistry II, University of Bayreuth, Universitätsstrasse 30, Bayreuth, Germany
| |
Collapse
|
27
|
Bagheri AR, Agarwal S, Golenser J, Greiner A. Unlocking Nanocarriers for the Programmed Release of Antimalarial Drugs. GLOBAL CHALLENGES (HOBOKEN, NJ) 2017; 1:1600011. [PMID: 31565264 PMCID: PMC6607132 DOI: 10.1002/gch2.201600011] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/28/2016] [Revised: 12/04/2016] [Indexed: 06/10/2023]
Abstract
A programmable release system with wide range of release profiles of the antimalarial artemisone (ART) from fibrous nanocarriers (NFN) is presented. This is achieved following a new paradigm of using ART-loaded NFN in infusion system of hydrophobic drug eluting nanocarriers, adapted to clinical applications. Very importantly, under these conditions ART did not degrade as it was observed in solution.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Amir Reza Bagheri
- Macromolecular ChemistryBavarian Polymer InstituteUniversity of BayreuthUniversitätsstraße 3095440BayreuthGermany
| | - Seema Agarwal
- Macromolecular ChemistryBavarian Polymer InstituteUniversity of BayreuthUniversitätsstraße 3095440BayreuthGermany
| | - Jacob Golenser
- Department of Microbiology and Molecular GeneticsThe Kuvin Centre for the Study of Infectious and Tropical DiseasesThe Hebrew University of Jerusalem91120JerusalemIsrael
| | - Andreas Greiner
- Macromolecular ChemistryBavarian Polymer InstituteUniversity of BayreuthUniversitätsstraße 3095440BayreuthGermany
| |
Collapse
|
28
|
Capuccini B, Lin J, Talavera-López C, Khan SM, Sodenkamp J, Spaccapelo R, Langhorne J. Transcriptomic profiling of microglia reveals signatures of cell activation and immune response, during experimental cerebral malaria. Sci Rep 2016; 6:39258. [PMID: 27991544 PMCID: PMC5171943 DOI: 10.1038/srep39258] [Citation(s) in RCA: 34] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/29/2016] [Accepted: 11/22/2016] [Indexed: 02/08/2023] Open
Abstract
Cerebral malaria is a pathology involving inflammation in the brain. There are many immune cell types activated during this process, but there is little information on the response of microglia, in this severe complication. We examined microglia by genome wide transcriptomic analysis in a model of experimental cerebral malaria (ECM), in which C57BL/6 mice are infected with Plasmodium berghei ANKA. Thousands of transcripts were differentially expressed in microglia at two different time points during infection. Proliferation of microglia was a dominant feature before the onset of ECM, and supporting this, we observed an increase in numbers of these cells in the brain. When cerebral malaria symptoms were manifest, genes involved in immune responses and chemokine production were upregulated, which were possibly driven by Type I Interferon. Consistent with this hypothesis, in vitro culture of a microglial cell line with Interferon-β, but not infected red blood cells, resulted in production of several of the chemokines shown to be upregulated in the gene expression analysis. It appears that these responses are associated with ECM, as microglia from mice infected with a mutant P. berghei parasite (ΔDPAP3), which does not cause ECM, did not show the same level of activation or proliferation.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
| | - Jingwen Lin
- The Francis Crick Institute, London NW1 1AT, UK
| | | | - Shahid M. Khan
- Leiden University Medical Center, Albinusdreef 2, 2333 ZA, Leiden, Netherlands
| | | | - Roberta Spaccapelo
- Department of Experimental Medicine, University of Perugia, 06132 Perugia, Italy
| | | |
Collapse
|
29
|
Gallego-Delgado J, Basu-Roy U, Ty M, Alique M, Fernandez-Arias C, Movila A, Gomes P, Weinstock A, Xu W, Edagha I, Wassmer SC, Walther T, Ruiz-Ortega M, Rodriguez A. Angiotensin receptors and β-catenin regulate brain endothelial integrity in malaria. J Clin Invest 2016; 126:4016-4029. [PMID: 27643439 DOI: 10.1172/jci87306] [Citation(s) in RCA: 47] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/25/2016] [Accepted: 07/12/2016] [Indexed: 12/17/2022] Open
Abstract
Cerebral malaria is characterized by cytoadhesion of Plasmodium falciparum-infected red blood cells (Pf-iRBCs) to endothelial cells in the brain, disruption of the blood-brain barrier, and cerebral microhemorrhages. No available antimalarial drugs specifically target the endothelial disruptions underlying this complication, which is responsible for the majority of malaria-associated deaths. Here, we have demonstrated that ruptured Pf-iRBCs induce activation of β-catenin, leading to disruption of inter-endothelial cell junctions in human brain microvascular endothelial cells (HBMECs). Inhibition of β-catenin-induced TCF/LEF transcription in the nucleus of HBMECs prevented the disruption of endothelial junctions, confirming that β-catenin is a key mediator of P. falciparum adverse effects on endothelial integrity. Blockade of the angiotensin II type 1 receptor (AT1) or stimulation of the type 2 receptor (AT2) abrogated Pf-iRBC-induced activation of β-catenin and prevented the disruption of HBMEC monolayers. In a mouse model of cerebral malaria, modulation of angiotensin II receptors produced similar effects, leading to protection against cerebral malaria, reduced cerebral hemorrhages, and increased survival. In contrast, AT2-deficient mice were more susceptible to cerebral malaria. The interrelation of the β-catenin and the angiotensin II signaling pathways opens immediate host-targeted therapeutic possibilities for cerebral malaria and other diseases in which brain endothelial integrity is compromised.
Collapse
MESH Headings
- Active Transport, Cell Nucleus
- Antimalarials/pharmacology
- Biphenyl Compounds/pharmacology
- Brain/blood supply
- Brain/parasitology
- Capillary Permeability
- Cell Adhesion
- Cells, Cultured
- Endothelial Cells/parasitology
- Endothelial Cells/physiology
- Endothelium, Vascular/parasitology
- Endothelium, Vascular/pathology
- Humans
- Intercellular Junctions/metabolism
- Irbesartan
- Malaria, Cerebral/metabolism
- Malaria, Cerebral/parasitology
- Malaria, Cerebral/pathology
- Malaria, Falciparum/metabolism
- Malaria, Falciparum/parasitology
- Malaria, Falciparum/pathology
- Microvessels/pathology
- Plasmodium falciparum
- Receptor, Angiotensin, Type 2/metabolism
- Tetrazoles/pharmacology
- beta Catenin/physiology
Collapse
|
30
|
Wu Y, Wu RWK, Cheu KW, Williams ID, Krishna S, Slavic K, Gravett AM, Liu WM, Wong HN, Haynes RK. Methylene Homologues of Artemisone: An Unexpected Structure-Activity Relationship and a Possible Implication for the Design of C10-Substituted Artemisinins. ChemMedChem 2016; 11:1469-79. [PMID: 27273875 DOI: 10.1002/cmdc.201600011] [Citation(s) in RCA: 17] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/07/2016] [Revised: 05/13/2016] [Indexed: 11/12/2022]
Abstract
We sought to establish if methylene homologues of artemisone are biologically more active and more stable than artemisone. The analogy is drawn with the conversion of natural O- and N-glycosides into more stable C-glycosides that may possess enhanced biological activities and stabilities. Dihydroartemisinin was converted into 10β-cyano-10-deoxyartemisinin that was hydrolyzed to the α-primary amide. Reduction of the β-cyanide and the α-amide provided the respective methylamine epimers that upon treatment with divinyl sulfone gave the β- and α-methylene homologues, respectively, of artemisone. Surprisingly, the compounds were less active in vitro than artemisone against P. falciparum and displayed no appreciable activity against A549, HCT116, and MCF7 tumor cell lines. This loss in activity may be rationalized in terms of one model for the mechanism of action of artemisinins, namely the cofactor model, wherein the presence of a leaving group at C10 assists in driving hydride transfer from reduced flavin cofactors to the peroxide during perturbation of intracellular redox homeostasis by artemisinins. It is noted that the carba analogue of artemether is less active in vitro than the O-glycoside parent toward P. falciparum, although extrapolation of such activity differences to other artemisinins at this stage is not possible. However, literature data coupled with the leaving group rationale suggest that artemisinins bearing an amino group attached directly to C10 are optimal compounds.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Yuet Wu
- Department of Chemistry, The Hong Kong University of Science and Technology, Clear Water Bay, Kowloon, Hong Kong, P.R. China
| | - Ronald Wai Kung Wu
- Department of Chemistry, The Hong Kong University of Science and Technology, Clear Water Bay, Kowloon, Hong Kong, P.R. China
| | - Kwan Wing Cheu
- Department of Chemistry, The Hong Kong University of Science and Technology, Clear Water Bay, Kowloon, Hong Kong, P.R. China
| | - Ian D Williams
- Department of Chemistry, The Hong Kong University of Science and Technology, Clear Water Bay, Kowloon, Hong Kong, P.R. China
| | - Sanjeev Krishna
- Centre for Infection, Division of Cellular and Molecular Medicine, St. George's Hospital, University of London, SW17 0RE, UK
| | - Ksenija Slavic
- Centre for Infection, Division of Cellular and Molecular Medicine, St. George's Hospital, University of London, SW17 0RE, UK
| | - Andrew M Gravett
- Department of Oncology, Division of Cellular and Molecular Medicine, St. George's Hospital, University of London, Jenner Wing, London, SW17 0RE, UK
| | - Wai M Liu
- Department of Oncology, Division of Cellular and Molecular Medicine, St. George's Hospital, University of London, Jenner Wing, London, SW17 0RE, UK
| | - Ho Ning Wong
- Centre of Excellence for Pharmaceutical Sciences, Faculty of Health Sciences, North-West University, Potchefstroom, 2520, South Africa.,Department of Chemistry, The Hong Kong University of Science and Technology, Clear Water Bay, Kowloon, Hong Kong, P.R. China
| | - Richard K Haynes
- Centre of Excellence for Pharmaceutical Sciences, Faculty of Health Sciences, North-West University, Potchefstroom, 2520, South Africa. , .,Department of Chemistry, The Hong Kong University of Science and Technology, Clear Water Bay, Kowloon, Hong Kong, P.R. China. ,
| |
Collapse
|
31
|
Portnoy E, Vakruk N, Bishara A, Shmuel M, Magdassi S, Golenser J, Eyal S. Indocyanine Green Liposomes for Diagnosis and Therapeutic Monitoring of Cerebral Malaria. Am J Cancer Res 2016; 6:167-76. [PMID: 26877776 PMCID: PMC4729766 DOI: 10.7150/thno.13653] [Citation(s) in RCA: 17] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/25/2015] [Accepted: 10/12/2015] [Indexed: 01/13/2023] Open
Abstract
Cerebral malaria (CM) is a major cause of death of Plasmodium falciparum infection. Misdiagnosis of CM often leads to treatment delay and mortality. Conventional brain imaging technologies are rarely applicable in endemic areas. Here we address the unmet need for a simple, non-invasive imaging methodology for early diagnosis of CM. This study presents the diagnostic and therapeutic monitoring using liposomes containing the FDA-approved fluorescent dye indocyanine green (ICG) in a CM murine model. Increased emission intensity of liposomal ICG was demonstrated in comparison with free ICG. The Liposomal ICG's emission was greater in the brains of the infected mice compared to naïve mice and drug treated mice (where CM was prevented). Histological analyses suggest that the accumulation of liposomal ICG in the cerebral vasculature is due to extensive uptake mediated by activated phagocytes. Overall, liposomal ICG offers a valuable diagnostic tool and a biomarker for effectiveness of CM treatment, as well as other diseases that involve inflammation and blood vessel occlusion.
Collapse
|
32
|
In vitro anti-cancer effects of artemisone nano-vesicular formulations on melanoma cells. NANOMEDICINE-NANOTECHNOLOGY BIOLOGY AND MEDICINE 2015; 11:2041-50. [DOI: 10.1016/j.nano.2015.07.010] [Citation(s) in RCA: 69] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/07/2015] [Revised: 07/16/2015] [Accepted: 07/17/2015] [Indexed: 11/18/2022]
|
33
|
Sahu PK, Satpathi S, Behera PK, Mishra SK, Mohanty S, Wassmer SC. Pathogenesis of cerebral malaria: new diagnostic tools, biomarkers, and therapeutic approaches. Front Cell Infect Microbiol 2015; 5:75. [PMID: 26579500 PMCID: PMC4621481 DOI: 10.3389/fcimb.2015.00075] [Citation(s) in RCA: 40] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/17/2015] [Accepted: 10/05/2015] [Indexed: 12/28/2022] Open
Abstract
Cerebral malaria is a severe neuropathological complication of Plasmodium falciparum infection. It results in high mortality and post-recovery neuro-cognitive disorders in children, even after appropriate treatment with effective anti-parasitic drugs. While the complete landscape of the pathogenesis of cerebral malaria still remains to be elucidated, numerous innovative approaches have been developed in recent years in order to improve the early detection of this neurological syndrome and, subsequently, the clinical care of affected patients. In this review, we briefly summarize the current understanding of cerebral malaria pathogenesis, compile the array of new biomarkers and tools available for diagnosis and research, and describe the emerging therapeutic approaches to tackle this pathology effectively.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Praveen K Sahu
- Center for the Study of Complex Malaria in India, Ispat General Hospital Rourkela, India
| | | | | | - Saroj K Mishra
- Center for the Study of Complex Malaria in India, Ispat General Hospital Rourkela, India
| | - Sanjib Mohanty
- Center for the Study of Complex Malaria in India, Ispat General Hospital Rourkela, India
| | - Samuel Crocodile Wassmer
- Department of Microbiology, New York University School of Medicine New York, NY, USA ; Department of Pathology, The University of Sydney Sydney, NSW, Australia
| |
Collapse
|
34
|
Gallego-Delgado J, Baravian C, Edagha I, Ty MC, Ruiz-Ortega M, Xu W, Rodriguez A. Angiotensin II Moderately Decreases Plasmodium Infection and Experimental Cerebral Malaria in Mice. PLoS One 2015; 10:e0138191. [PMID: 26376293 PMCID: PMC4574105 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pone.0138191] [Citation(s) in RCA: 18] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/27/2014] [Accepted: 07/12/2015] [Indexed: 12/28/2022] Open
Abstract
Angiotensin II, a peptide hormone that regulates blood pressure, has been proposed as a protective factor against cerebral malaria based on a genetic analysis. In vitro studies have documented an inhibitory effect of angiotensin II on Plasmodium growth, while studies using chemical inhibitors of angiotensin II in mice showed protection against experimental cerebral malaria but not major effects on parasite growth. To determine whether the level of angiotensin II affects Plasmodium growth and/or disease outcome in malaria, elevated levels of angiotensin II were induced in mice by intradermal implantation of osmotic mini-pumps providing constant release of this hormone. Mice were then infected with P. berghei and monitored for parasitemia and incidence of cerebral malaria. Mice infused with angiotensin II showed decreased parasitemia seven days after infection. The development of experimental cerebral malaria was delayed and a moderate increase in survival was observed in mice with elevated angiotensin II, as confirmed by decreased number of cerebral hemorrhages compared to controls. The results presented here show for the first time the effect of elevated levels of angiotensin II in an in vivo model of malaria. The decreased pathogenesis observed in mice complements a previous human genetic study, reinforcing the hypothesis of a beneficial effect of angiotensin II in malaria.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Julio Gallego-Delgado
- New York University School of Medicine, Dept. of Microbiology, Division of Parasitology, New York, New York, United States of America
| | - Charlotte Baravian
- New York University School of Medicine, Dept. of Microbiology, Division of Parasitology, New York, New York, United States of America
| | - Innocent Edagha
- New York University School of Medicine, Dept. of Microbiology, Division of Parasitology, New York, New York, United States of America
| | - Maureen C. Ty
- New York University School of Medicine, Dept. of Microbiology, Division of Parasitology, New York, New York, United States of America
| | - Marta Ruiz-Ortega
- Cellular Biology in Renal Diseases Laboratory, IIS-Fundación Jiménez Díaz/Universidad Autónoma Madrid, Madrid, Spain
| | - Wenyue Xu
- New York University School of Medicine, Dept. of Microbiology, Division of Parasitology, New York, New York, United States of America
- Department of Pathogenic Biology, Third Military Medical University, Chongqing, China
| | - Ana Rodriguez
- New York University School of Medicine, Dept. of Microbiology, Division of Parasitology, New York, New York, United States of America
- * E-mail:
| |
Collapse
|
35
|
Kumar S, Singh RK, Patial B, Goyal S, Bhardwaj TR. Recent advances in novel heterocyclic scaffolds for the treatment of drug-resistant malaria. J Enzyme Inhib Med Chem 2015; 31:173-86. [PMID: 25775094 DOI: 10.3109/14756366.2015.1016513] [Citation(s) in RCA: 19] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/23/2022] Open
Abstract
Malaria is a major public health problem all over the world, particularly in tropical and subtropical countries due to the development of resistance and most deadly infection is caused by Plasmodium falciparum. There is a direct need for the discovery of new drugs with unique structures and mechanism of action to treat sensitive and drug-resistant strains of various plasmodia for radical cure of this disease. Traditional compounds such as quinine and related derivatives represent a major source for the development of new drugs. This review presents recent modifications of 4-aminoquinoline and 8-aminoquinolone rings as leads to novel active molecules which are under clinical trials. The review also encompasses the other heterocyclic compounds emerged as potential antimalarial agents with promising results such as acridinediones and acridinone analogues, pyridines and quinolones as antimalarials. Miscellaneous heterocyclics such as tetroxane derivatives, indole derivatives, imidazolopiperazine derivatives, biscationic choline-based compounds and polymer-linked combined antimalarial drugs are also discussed. At last brief introduction to heterocyclics in natural products is also reviewed. Most of them have been under clinical trials and found to be promising in the treatment of drug-resistant strains of Plasmodium and others can be explored for the same purpose.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Sahil Kumar
- a Department of Pharmaceutical Chemistry , Indo-Soviet Friendship (I.S.F.) College of Pharmacy , Moga , Punjab , India .,b Faculty of Pharmacy , Punjab Technical University , Jalandhar, Kapurthala , India
| | - Rajesh K Singh
- c Department of Pharmaceutical Chemistry , Shivalik College of Pharmacy , Nangal, Dist. Rupnagar , Punjab , India , and
| | - Babita Patial
- a Department of Pharmaceutical Chemistry , Indo-Soviet Friendship (I.S.F.) College of Pharmacy , Moga , Punjab , India
| | - Sachin Goyal
- a Department of Pharmaceutical Chemistry , Indo-Soviet Friendship (I.S.F.) College of Pharmacy , Moga , Punjab , India
| | - T R Bhardwaj
- a Department of Pharmaceutical Chemistry , Indo-Soviet Friendship (I.S.F.) College of Pharmacy , Moga , Punjab , India .,d Department of Pharmaceutical Chemistry , University Institute of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Panjab University , Chandigarh , India
| |
Collapse
|
36
|
Guiguemde WA, Hunt NH, Guo J, Marciano A, Haynes RK, Clark J, Guy RK, Golenser J. Treatment of murine cerebral malaria by artemisone in combination with conventional antimalarial drugs: antiplasmodial effects and immune responses. Antimicrob Agents Chemother 2014; 58:4745-54. [PMID: 24913162 PMCID: PMC4135990 DOI: 10.1128/aac.01553-13] [Citation(s) in RCA: 16] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/18/2013] [Accepted: 05/27/2014] [Indexed: 01/10/2023] Open
Abstract
The decreasing effectiveness of antimalarial therapy due to drug resistance necessitates constant efforts to develop new drugs. Artemisinin derivatives are the most recent drugs that have been introduced and are considered the first line of treatment, but there are already indications of Plasmodium falciparum resistance to artemisinins. Consequently, drug combinations are recommended for prevention of the induction of resistance. The research here demonstrates the effects of novel combinations of the new artemisinin derivative, artemisone, a recently described 10-alkylamino artemisinin derivative with improved antimalarial activity and reduced neurotoxicity. We here investigate its ability to kill P. falciparum in a high-throughput in vitro assay and to protect mice against lethal cerebral malaria caused by Plasmodium berghei ANKA when used alone or in combination with established antimalarial drugs. Artemisone effects against P. falciparum in vitro were synergistic with halofantrine and mefloquine, and additive with 25 other drugs, including chloroquine and doxycycline. The concentrations of artemisone combinations that were toxic against THP-1 cells in vitro were much higher than their effective antimalarial concentration. Artemisone, mefloquine, chloroquine, or piperaquine given individually mostly protected mice against cerebral malaria caused by P. berghei ANKA but did not prevent parasite recrudescence. Combinations of artemisone with any of the other three drugs did completely cure most mice of malaria. The combination of artemisone and chloroquine decreased the ratio of proinflammatory (gamma interferon, tumor necrosis factor) to anti-inflammatory (interleukin 10 [IL-10], IL-4) cytokines in the plasma of P. berghei-infected mice. Thus, artemisone in combinations with other antimalarial drugs might have a dual action, both killing parasites and limiting the potentially deleterious host inflammatory response.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- W Armand Guiguemde
- Department of Chemical Biology and Therapeutics, St. Jude Children's Research Hospital, Memphis, Tennessee, USA
| | - Nicholas H Hunt
- Department of Pathology and Bosch Institute, The University of Sydney, Sydney, Australia
| | - Jintao Guo
- Department of Pathology and Bosch Institute, The University of Sydney, Sydney, Australia
| | - Annael Marciano
- Department of Chemical Biology and Therapeutics, St. Jude Children's Research Hospital, Memphis, Tennessee, USA
| | - Richard K Haynes
- Centre of Excellence for Pharmaceutical Sciences, North-West University, Potchefstroom, South Africa
| | - Julie Clark
- Department of Chemical Biology and Therapeutics, St. Jude Children's Research Hospital, Memphis, Tennessee, USA
| | - R Kiplin Guy
- Department of Chemical Biology and Therapeutics, St. Jude Children's Research Hospital, Memphis, Tennessee, USA
| | - Jacob Golenser
- Department of Pathology and Bosch Institute, The University of Sydney, Sydney, Australia Department of Microbiology and Molecular Genetics, The Kuvin Center for the Study of Infectious and Tropical Diseases, The Hebrew University of Jerusalem, Jerusalem, Israel
| |
Collapse
|
37
|
Mazzone JR, Conyers RC, Tripathi AK, Sullivan DJ, Posner GH. Antimalarial chemotherapy: artemisinin-derived dimer carbonates and thiocarbonates. Bioorg Med Chem Lett 2014; 24:2440-3. [PMID: 24775306 PMCID: PMC4074917 DOI: 10.1016/j.bmcl.2014.04.025] [Citation(s) in RCA: 14] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/14/2014] [Revised: 04/04/2014] [Accepted: 04/07/2014] [Indexed: 11/22/2022]
Abstract
Several 2-carbon-linked trioxane dimer secondary alcohol carbonates 14 and thiocarbonates 15, combined with mefloquine and administered in a low single oral dose, prolonged the survival times of malaria-infected mice much more effectively than the popular monomeric antimalarial drug artemether plus mefloquine. Three dimer carbonates 14 and one dimer thiocarbonate 15 partially cured malaria-infected mice.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Jennifer R Mazzone
- Department of Chemistry, School of Arts and Sciences, The Johns Hopkins University, 3400 North Charles Street, Baltimore, MD 21218, United States
| | - Ryan C Conyers
- Department of Chemistry, School of Arts and Sciences, The Johns Hopkins University, 3400 North Charles Street, Baltimore, MD 21218, United States
| | - Abhai K Tripathi
- W. Harry Feinstone Department of Molecular Microbiology and Immunology, Bloomberg School of Public Health, The Johns Hopkins University, Baltimore, MD 21205, United States; The Johns Hopkins Malaria Research Institute, Bloomberg School of Public Health, The Johns Hopkins University, Baltimore, MD 21205, United States
| | - David J Sullivan
- W. Harry Feinstone Department of Molecular Microbiology and Immunology, Bloomberg School of Public Health, The Johns Hopkins University, Baltimore, MD 21205, United States; The Johns Hopkins Malaria Research Institute, Bloomberg School of Public Health, The Johns Hopkins University, Baltimore, MD 21205, United States
| | - Gary H Posner
- Department of Chemistry, School of Arts and Sciences, The Johns Hopkins University, 3400 North Charles Street, Baltimore, MD 21218, United States; The Johns Hopkins Malaria Research Institute, Bloomberg School of Public Health, The Johns Hopkins University, Baltimore, MD 21205, United States.
| |
Collapse
|
38
|
Grobler L, Grobler A, Haynes R, Masimirembwa C, Thelingwani R, Steenkamp P, Steyn HS. The effect of the Pheroid delivery system on the in vitro metabolism and in vivo pharmacokinetics of artemisone. Expert Opin Drug Metab Toxicol 2014; 10:313-25. [PMID: 24511903 DOI: 10.1517/17425255.2014.885503] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/05/2022]
Abstract
OBJECTIVES The objectives were to determine the pharmacokinetics (PK) of artemisone and artemisone formulated in the Pheroid® drug delivery system in primates and to establish whether the formulation affects the in vitro metabolism of artemisone in human and monkey liver and intestinal microsomes. METHODS For the PK study, a single oral dose of artemisone was administered to vervet monkeys using a crossover design. Plasma samples were analyzed by means of liquid chromatography-tandem mass spectrometry. For the in vitro metabolism study, clearance was determined using microsomes and recombinant CYP3A4 enzymes, and samples were analyzed by means of ultra-performance liquid chromatography quadrupole time-of-flight mass spectrometry. RESULTS Artemisone and M1 plasma levels were unexpectedly low compared to those previously recorded in rodents and humans. The in vitro intrinsic clearance (CLint) of the reference formulation with monkey liver microsomes was much higher (1359.33 ± 103.24 vs 178.86 ± 23.42) than that of human liver microsomes. The in vitro data suggest that microsomal metabolism of artemisone is inhibited by the Pheroid delivery system. CONCLUSIONS The in vivo results obtained in this study indicate that the Pheroid delivery system improves the PK profile of artemisone. The in vitro results indicate that microsomal metabolism of artemisone is inhibited by the Pheroid delivery system.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Lizette Grobler
- North-West University, Faculty of Health Sciences, DST/NWU Preclinical Drug Development Platform , Potchefstroom , South Africa +27 18 299 2281, +27 18 299 4467 ; +27 18 285 2233 ; ;
| | | | | | | | | | | | | |
Collapse
|
39
|
Solomon W, Wilson NO, Anderson L, Pitts S, Patrickson J, Liu M, Ford BD, Stiles JK. Neuregulin-1 attenuates mortality associated with experimental cerebral malaria. J Neuroinflammation 2014; 11:9. [PMID: 24433482 PMCID: PMC3906904 DOI: 10.1186/1742-2094-11-9] [Citation(s) in RCA: 31] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/20/2013] [Accepted: 12/23/2013] [Indexed: 12/17/2022] Open
Abstract
Background Cerebral Malaria (CM) is a diffuse encephalopathy caused by Plasmodium falciparum infection. Despite availability of antimalarial drugs, CM-associated mortality remains high at approximately 30% and a subset of survivors develop neurological and cognitive disabilities. While antimalarials are effective at clearing Plasmodium parasites they do little to protect against CM pathophysiology and parasite-induced brain inflammation that leads to seizures, coma and long-term neurological sequelae in CM patients. Thus, there is urgent need to explore therapeutics that can reduce or prevent CM pathogenesis and associated brain inflammation to improve survival. Neuregulin-1 (NRG-1) is a neurotrophic growth factor shown to protect against brain injury associated with acute ischemic stroke (AIS) and neurotoxin exposure. However, this drug has not been tested against CM-associated brain injury. Since CM-associated brain injuries and AIS share similar pathophysiological features, we hypothesized that NRG-1 will reduce or prevent neuroinflammation and brain damage as well as improve survival in mice with late-stage experimental cerebral malaria (ECM). Methods We tested the effects of NRG-1 on ECM-associated brain inflammation and mortality in P. berghei ANKA (PbA)-infected mice and compared to artemether (ARM) treatment; an antimalarial currently used in various combination therapies against malaria. Results Treatment with ARM (25 mg/kg/day) effectively cleared parasites and reduced mortality in PbA-infected mice by 82%. Remarkably, NRG-1 therapy (1.25 ng/kg/day) significantly improved survival against ECM by 73% despite increase in parasite burden within NRG-1-treated mice. Additionally, NRG-1 therapy reduced systemic and brain pro-inflammatory factors TNFalpha, IL-6, IL-1alpha and CXCL10 and enhanced anti-inflammatory factors, IL-5 and IL-13 while decreasing leukocyte accumulation in brain microvessels. Conclusions This study suggests that NRG-1 attenuates ECM-associated brain inflammation and injuries and may represent a novel supportive therapy for the management of CM.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Wesley Solomon
- Department of Microbiology, Biochemistry and Immunology, Morehouse School of Medicine, Atlanta, GA, USA.
| | | | | | | | | | | | | | | |
Collapse
|
40
|
Mazuz ML, Golenser J, Fish L, Haynes RK, Wollkomirsky R, Leibovich B, Shkap V. Artemisone inhibits in vitro and in vivo propagation of Babesia bovis and B. bigemina parasites. Exp Parasitol 2013; 135:690-4. [PMID: 24184077 DOI: 10.1016/j.exppara.2013.10.006] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/29/2013] [Revised: 08/26/2013] [Accepted: 10/21/2013] [Indexed: 11/30/2022]
Abstract
Artemisone was evaluated, in in vitro and in vivo, for control of bovine babesiosis caused by Babesia bigemina and Babesia bovis parasites. In vitro, artemisone reduced parasitemia in a dose-dependent manner: the inhibitory effects increased gradually, reaching a maximum inhibition of 99.6% and 86.4% for B. bigemina and B. bovis, respectively 72 h after initiation of treatment with initial parasitemia of 0.5%. In calves infected with either B. bigemina or B. bovis artemisone treatment was well tolerated and prevented development of acute babesiosis in all animals except for one B. bovis-infected calf. The treatment did not eliminate all blood parasites, and recovered animals carried a persistent low-level infection. Treatment with artemisone may be useful as an alternative drug for preventing the pathology that results from babesiosis, without interfering with acquired immune protection following recovery from an acute babesiosis infection or vaccination.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Monica L Mazuz
- Division of Parasitology, Kimron Veterinary Institute, 50250 Bet Dagan, Israel.
| | | | | | | | | | | | | |
Collapse
|
41
|
Waknine-Grinberg JH, Even-Chen S, Avichzer J, Turjeman K, Bentura-Marciano A, Haynes RK, Weiss L, Allon N, Ovadia H, Golenser J, Barenholz Y. Glucocorticosteroids in nano-sterically stabilized liposomes are efficacious for elimination of the acute symptoms of experimental cerebral malaria. PLoS One 2013; 8:e72722. [PMID: 23991146 PMCID: PMC3753236 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pone.0072722] [Citation(s) in RCA: 38] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/28/2012] [Accepted: 07/12/2013] [Indexed: 01/07/2023] Open
Abstract
Cerebral malaria is the most severe complication of Plasmodium falciparum infection, and a leading cause of death in children under the age of five in malaria-endemic areas. We report high therapeutic efficacy of a novel formulation of liposome-encapsulated water-soluble glucocorticoid prodrugs, and in particular β-methasone hemisuccinate (BMS), for treatment of experimental cerebral malaria (ECM), using the murine P. berghei ANKA model. BMS is a novel derivative of the potent steroid β-methasone, and was specially synthesized to enable remote loading into nano-sterically stabilized liposomes (nSSL), to form nSSL-BMS. The novel nano-drug, composed of nSSL remote loaded with BMS, dramatically improves drug efficacy and abolishes the high toxicity seen upon administration of free BMS. nSSL-BMS reduces ECM rates in a dose-dependent manner and creates a survival time-window, enabling administration of an antiplasmodial drug, such as artemisone. Administration of artemisone after treatment with the nSSL-BMS results in complete cure. Treatment with BMS leads to lower levels of cerebral inflammation, demonstrated by changes in cytokines, chemokines, and cell markers, as well as diminished hemorrhage and edema, correlating with reduced clinical score. Administration of the liposomal formulation results in accumulation of BMS in the brains of sick mice but not of healthy mice. This steroidal nano-drug effectively eliminates the adverse effects of the cerebral syndrome even when the treatment is started at late stages of disease, in which disruption of the blood-brain barrier has occurred and mice show clear signs of neurological impairment. Overall, sequential treatment with nSSL-BMS and artemisone may be an efficacious and well-tolerated therapy for prevention of CM, elimination of parasites, and prevention of long-term cognitive damage.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Judith H. Waknine-Grinberg
- Laboratory of Membrane and Liposome Research, Department of Biochemistry, Institute for Medical Research – Israel-Canada (IMRIC), The Hebrew University - Hadassah Medical School, Jerusalem, Israel
- Department of Microbiology and Molecular Genetics, The Kuvin Center for the Study of Infectious and Tropical Diseases, The Hebrew University - Hadassah Medical School, Jerusalem, Israel
| | - Simcha Even-Chen
- Laboratory of Membrane and Liposome Research, Department of Biochemistry, Institute for Medical Research – Israel-Canada (IMRIC), The Hebrew University - Hadassah Medical School, Jerusalem, Israel
| | - Jasmine Avichzer
- Agnes Ginges Center for Human Neurogenetics, Department of Neurology, Hadassah University Hospital, Jerusalem, Israel
| | - Keren Turjeman
- Laboratory of Membrane and Liposome Research, Department of Biochemistry, Institute for Medical Research – Israel-Canada (IMRIC), The Hebrew University - Hadassah Medical School, Jerusalem, Israel
| | - Annael Bentura-Marciano
- Department of Microbiology and Molecular Genetics, The Kuvin Center for the Study of Infectious and Tropical Diseases, The Hebrew University - Hadassah Medical School, Jerusalem, Israel
| | - Richard K. Haynes
- Department of Chemistry, Institute of Molecular Technology for Drug Discovery and Synthesis, The Hong Kong University of Science and Technology, Clear Water Bay, Kowloon, Hong Kong
| | - Lola Weiss
- Department of Bone Marrow Transplantation and Cancer Immunotherapy, Hadassah University Hospital, Jerusalem, Israel
| | - Nahum Allon
- Laboratory of Membrane and Liposome Research, Department of Biochemistry, Institute for Medical Research – Israel-Canada (IMRIC), The Hebrew University - Hadassah Medical School, Jerusalem, Israel
| | - Haim Ovadia
- Agnes Ginges Center for Human Neurogenetics, Department of Neurology, Hadassah University Hospital, Jerusalem, Israel
| | - Jacob Golenser
- Department of Microbiology and Molecular Genetics, The Kuvin Center for the Study of Infectious and Tropical Diseases, The Hebrew University - Hadassah Medical School, Jerusalem, Israel
| | - Yechezkel Barenholz
- Laboratory of Membrane and Liposome Research, Department of Biochemistry, Institute for Medical Research – Israel-Canada (IMRIC), The Hebrew University - Hadassah Medical School, Jerusalem, Israel
- * E-mail: (YB), (JG)
| |
Collapse
|
42
|
Biamonte MA, Wanner J, Le Roch KG. Recent advances in malaria drug discovery. Bioorg Med Chem Lett 2013; 23:2829-43. [PMID: 23587422 PMCID: PMC3762334 DOI: 10.1016/j.bmcl.2013.03.067] [Citation(s) in RCA: 129] [Impact Index Per Article: 11.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/15/2013] [Revised: 03/11/2013] [Accepted: 03/20/2013] [Indexed: 01/18/2023]
Abstract
This digest covers some of the most relevant progress in malaria drug discovery published between 2010 and 2012. There is an urgent need to develop new antimalarial drugs. Such drugs can target the blood stage of the disease to alleviate the symptoms, the liver stage to prevent relapses, and the transmission stage to protect other humans. The pipeline for the blood stage is becoming robust, but this should not be a source of complacency, as the current therapies set a high standard. Drug discovery efforts directed towards the liver and transmission stages are in their infancy but are receiving increasing attention as targeting these stages could be instrumental in eradicating malaria.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Marco A Biamonte
- Drug Discovery for Tropical Diseases, Suite 230, San Diego, CA 92121, USA.
| | | | | |
Collapse
|
43
|
Dose responses of proveblue methylene blue in an experimental murine cerebral malaria model. Antimicrob Agents Chemother 2013; 57:4080-1. [PMID: 23669389 DOI: 10.1128/aac.00634-13] [Citation(s) in RCA: 16] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/20/2022] Open
|
44
|
Efficacy of proveblue (methylene blue) in an experimental cerebral malaria murine model. Antimicrob Agents Chemother 2013; 57:3412-4. [PMID: 23612202 DOI: 10.1128/aac.02381-12] [Citation(s) in RCA: 22] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/20/2022] Open
Abstract
Although 100% of untreated mice infected with Plasmodium berghei died with specific signs of cerebral malaria and 100% of mice treated with 3 mg/kg dihydroartemisinin, the active metabolite of artesunate, which is used as the first-line treatment for severe malaria, also died but showed no specific signs of cerebral malaria, 78% of mice treated with 10 mg/kg Proveblue (methylene blue) and 78% of mice treated with a combination of 3 mg dihydroartemisinin and 10 mg/kg Proveblue survived and showed no specific signs of cerebral malaria or detectable parasites.
Collapse
|
45
|
Wilson NO, Solomon W, Anderson L, Patrickson J, Pitts S, Bond V, Liu M, Stiles JK. Pharmacologic inhibition of CXCL10 in combination with anti-malarial therapy eliminates mortality associated with murine model of cerebral malaria. PLoS One 2013; 8:e60898. [PMID: 23630573 PMCID: PMC3618178 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pone.0060898] [Citation(s) in RCA: 42] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/14/2012] [Accepted: 03/04/2013] [Indexed: 02/05/2023] Open
Abstract
Despite appropriate anti-malarial treatment, cerebral malaria (CM)-associated mortalities remain as high as 30%. Thus, adjunctive therapies are urgently needed to prevent or reduce such mortalities. Overproduction of CXCL10 in a subset of CM patients has been shown to be tightly associated with fatal human CM. Mice with deleted CXCL10 gene are partially protected against experimental cerebral malaria (ECM) mortality indicating the importance of CXCL10 in the pathogenesis of CM. However, the direct effect of increased CXCL10 production on brain cells is unknown. We assessed apoptotic effects of CXCL10 on human brain microvascular endothelial cells (HBVECs) and neuroglia cells in vitro. We tested the hypothesis that reducing overexpression of CXCL10 with a synthetic drug during CM pathogenesis will increase survival and reduce mortality. We utilized atorvastatin, a widely used synthetic blood cholesterol-lowering drug that specifically targets and reduces plasma CXCL10 levels in humans, to determine the effects of atorvastatin and artemether combination therapy on murine ECM outcome. We assessed effects of atorvastatin treatment on immune determinants of severity, survival, and parasitemia in ECM mice receiving a combination therapy from onset of ECM (day 6 through 9 post-infection) and compared results with controls. The results indicate that CXCL10 induces apoptosis in HBVECs and neuroglia cells in a dose-dependent manner suggesting that increased levels of CXCL10 in CM patients may play a role in vasculopathy, neuropathogenesis, and brain injury during CM pathogenesis. Treatment of ECM in mice with atorvastatin significantly reduced systemic and brain inflammation by reducing the levels of the anti-angiogenic and apoptotic factor (CXCL10) and increasing angiogenic factor (VEGF) production. Treatment with a combination of atorvastatin and artemether improved survival (100%) when compared with artemether monotherapy (70%), p<0.05. Thus, adjunctively reducing CXCL10 levels and inflammation by atorvastatin treatment during anti-malarial therapy may represent a novel approach to treating CM patients.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Nana O. Wilson
- Department of Microbiology, Biochemistry, and Immunology, Morehouse School of Medicine, Atlanta, Georgia, United States of America
| | - Wesley Solomon
- Department of Microbiology, Biochemistry, and Immunology, Morehouse School of Medicine, Atlanta, Georgia, United States of America
| | - Leonard Anderson
- Cardiovascular Research Institute, Morehouse School of Medicine, Atlanta, Georgia, United States of America
| | - John Patrickson
- Department of Pathology, Morehouse School of Medicine, Atlanta, Georgia, United States of America
| | - Sidney Pitts
- Department of Pathology, Morehouse School of Medicine, Atlanta, Georgia, United States of America
| | - Vincent Bond
- Department of Microbiology, Biochemistry, and Immunology, Morehouse School of Medicine, Atlanta, Georgia, United States of America
| | - Mingli Liu
- Department of Microbiology, Biochemistry, and Immunology, Morehouse School of Medicine, Atlanta, Georgia, United States of America
| | - Jonathan K. Stiles
- Department of Microbiology, Biochemistry, and Immunology, Morehouse School of Medicine, Atlanta, Georgia, United States of America
| |
Collapse
|
46
|
Seitz M, Syrén PO, Steiner L, Klebensberger J, Nestl BM, Hauer B. Synthesis of heterocyclic terpenoids by promiscuous squalene-hopene cyclases. Chembiochem 2013; 14:436-9. [PMID: 23418022 DOI: 10.1002/cbic.201300018] [Citation(s) in RCA: 42] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/10/2013] [Indexed: 11/07/2022]
Abstract
PROMISCUOUS ENZYMES: The substrate promiscuity of squalene-hopene cyclases has been explored and applied in the enzyme-catalyzed synthesis of heterocyclic terpenoids. Features of this work include cyclization reactions without pyrophosphate activation, and stereospecific ring closure of substrates of varying chain length and terminal nucleophile. This provides a biocatalytic alternative to traditional chemical catalysts.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Miriam Seitz
- Institute of Technical Biochemistry, Universität Stuttgart, Allmandring 31, 70569 Stuttgart, Germany
| | | | | | | | | | | |
Collapse
|
47
|
Protective role of brain water channel AQP4 in murine cerebral malaria. Proc Natl Acad Sci U S A 2012; 110:1035-40. [PMID: 23277579 DOI: 10.1073/pnas.1220566110] [Citation(s) in RCA: 35] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/18/2022] Open
Abstract
Tragically common among children in sub-Saharan Africa, cerebral malaria is characterized by rapid progression to coma and death. In this study, we used a model of cerebral malaria appearing in C57BL/6 WT mice after infection with the rodent malaria parasite Plasmodium berghei ANKA. Expression and cellular localization of the brain water channel aquaporin-4 (AQP4) was investigated during the neurological syndrome. Semiquantitative real-time PCR comparing uninfected and infected mice showed a reduction of brain AQP4 transcript in cerebral malaria, and immunoblots revealed reduction of brain AQP4 protein. Reduction of brain AQP4 protein was confirmed in cerebral malaria by quantitative immunogold EM; however, polarized distribution of AQP4 at the perivascular and subpial astrocyte membranes was not altered. To further examine the role of AQP4 in cerebral malaria, WT mice and littermates genetically deficient in AQP4 were infected with P. berghei. Upon development of cerebral malaria, WT and AQP4-null mice exhibited similar increases in width of perivascular astroglial end-feet in brain. Nevertheless, the AQP4-null mice exhibited more severe signs of cerebral malaria with greater brain edema, although disruption of the blood-brain barrier was similar in both groups. In longitudinal studies, cerebral malaria appeared nearly 1 d earlier in the AQP4-null mice, and reduced survival was noted when chloroquine rescue was attempted. We conclude that the water channel AQP4 confers partial protection against cerebral malaria.
Collapse
|
48
|
Schrader FC, Barho M, Steiner I, Ortmann R, Schlitzer M. The antimalarial pipeline – An update. Int J Med Microbiol 2012; 302:165-71. [DOI: 10.1016/j.ijmm.2012.07.009] [Citation(s) in RCA: 17] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/31/2022] Open
|
49
|
Anthony MP, Burrows JN, Duparc S, JMoehrle J, Wells TNC. The global pipeline of new medicines for the control and elimination of malaria. Malar J 2012; 11:316. [PMID: 22958514 PMCID: PMC3472257 DOI: 10.1186/1475-2875-11-316] [Citation(s) in RCA: 108] [Impact Index Per Article: 9.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/26/2012] [Accepted: 07/21/2012] [Indexed: 12/03/2022] Open
Abstract
Over the past decade, there has been a transformation in the portfolio of medicines to combat malaria. New fixed-dose artemisinin combination therapy is available, with four different types having received approval from Stringent Regulatory Authorities or the World Health Organization (WHO). However, there is still scope for improvement. The Malaria Eradication Research agenda identified several gaps in the current portfolio. Simpler regimens, such as a single-dose cure are needed, compared with the current three-day treatment. In addition, new medicines that prevent transmission and also relapse are needed, but with better safety profiles than current medicines. There is also a big opportunity for new medicines to prevent reinfection and to provide chemoprotection. This study reviews the global portfolio of new medicines in development against malaria, as of the summer of 2012. Cell-based phenotypic screening, and 'fast followers' of clinically validated classes, mean that there are now many new classes of molecules starting in clinical development, especially for the blood stages of malaria. There remain significant gaps for medicines blocking transmission, preventing relapse, and long-duration molecules for chemoprotection. The nascent pipeline of new medicines is significantly stronger than five years ago. However, there are still risks ahead in clinical development and sustainable funding of clinical studies is vital if this early promise is going to be delivered.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Melinda P Anthony
- Medicines for Malaria Venture (MMV), 20 rte de Pré-Bois 1215, Geneva, Switzerland
| | - Jeremy N Burrows
- Medicines for Malaria Venture (MMV), 20 rte de Pré-Bois 1215, Geneva, Switzerland
| | - Stephan Duparc
- Medicines for Malaria Venture (MMV), 20 rte de Pré-Bois 1215, Geneva, Switzerland
| | - Joerg JMoehrle
- Medicines for Malaria Venture (MMV), 20 rte de Pré-Bois 1215, Geneva, Switzerland
| | - Timothy NC Wells
- Medicines for Malaria Venture (MMV), 20 rte de Pré-Bois 1215, Geneva, Switzerland
| |
Collapse
|
50
|
Comparative ex vivo activity of novel endoperoxides in multidrug-resistant plasmodium falciparum and P. vivax. Antimicrob Agents Chemother 2012; 56:5258-63. [PMID: 22850522 DOI: 10.1128/aac.00283-12] [Citation(s) in RCA: 36] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/20/2022] Open
Abstract
The declining efficacy of artemisinin derivatives against Plasmodium falciparum highlights the urgent need to identify alternative highly potent compounds for the treatment of malaria. In Papua Indonesia, where multidrug resistance has been documented against both P. falciparum and P. vivax malaria, comparative ex vivo antimalarial activity against Plasmodium isolates was assessed for the artemisinin derivatives artesunate (AS) and dihydroartemisinin (DHA), the synthetic peroxides OZ277 and OZ439, the semisynthetic 10-alkylaminoartemisinin derivatives artemisone and artemiside, and the conventional antimalarial drugs chloroquine (CQ), amodiaquine (AQ), and piperaquine (PIP). Ex vivo drug susceptibility was assessed in 46 field isolates (25 P. falciparum and 21 P. vivax). The novel endoperoxide compounds exhibited potent ex vivo activity against both species, but significant differences in intrinsic activity were observed. Compared to AS and its active metabolite DHA, all the novel compounds showed lower or equal 50% inhibitory concentrations (IC(50)s) in both species (median IC(50)s between 1.9 and 3.6 nM in P. falciparum and 0.7 and 4.6 nM in P. vivax). The antiplasmodial activity of novel endoperoxides showed different cross-susceptibility patterns in the two Plasmodium species: whereas their ex vivo activity correlated positively with CQ, PIP, AS, and DHA in P. falciparum, the same was not apparent in P. vivax. The current study demonstrates for the first time potent activity of novel endoperoxides against drug-resistant P. vivax. The high activity against drug-resistant strains of both Plasmodium species confirms these compounds to be promising candidates for future artemisinin-based combination therapy (ACT) regimens in regions of coendemicity.
Collapse
|