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Gao X, Feng J, Wei L, Dong P, Chen J, Zhang L, Yang Y, Xu L, Wang H, Luo J, Qin M. Defensins: A novel weapon against Mycobacterium tuberculosis? Int Immunopharmacol 2024; 127:111383. [PMID: 38118315 DOI: 10.1016/j.intimp.2023.111383] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/10/2023] [Revised: 12/04/2023] [Accepted: 12/12/2023] [Indexed: 12/22/2023]
Abstract
Tuberculosis (TB) is a serious airborne communicable disease caused by organisms of the Mycobacterium tuberculosis (Mtb) complex. Although the standard treatment antimicrobials, including isoniazid, rifampicin, pyrazinamide, and ethambutol, have made great progress in the treatment of TB, problems including the rising incidence of multidrug-resistant tuberculosis (MDR-TB) and extensively drug-resistant tuberculosis (XDR-TB), the severe toxicity and side effects of antimicrobials, and the low immunity of TB patients have become the bottlenecks of the current TB treatments. Therefore, both safe and effective new strategies to prevent and treat TB have become a top priority. As a subfamily of cationic antimicrobial peptides, defensins are rich in cysteine and play a vital role in resisting the invasion of microorganisms and regulating the immune response. Inspired by studies on the roles of defensins in host defence, we describe their research history and then review their structural features and antimicrobial mechanisms, specifically for fighting Mtb in detail. Finally, we discuss the clinical relevance, therapeutic potential, and potential challenges of defensins in anti-TB therapy. We further debate the possible solutions of the current application of defensins to provide new insights for eliminating Mtb.
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Affiliation(s)
- Xuehan Gao
- Department of Immunology, Center of Immunomolecular Engineering, Innovation & Practice Base for Graduate Students Education, Special Key Laboratory of Gene Detection & Therapy, Zunyi Medical University, Zunyi, Guizhou 563000, China
| | - Jihong Feng
- Department of Oncology, The Sixth Affiliated Hospital of Wenzhou Medical University, Lishui People's Hospital, Lishui 323000, China
| | - Linna Wei
- Department of Immunology, Center of Immunomolecular Engineering, Innovation & Practice Base for Graduate Students Education, Special Key Laboratory of Gene Detection & Therapy, Zunyi Medical University, Zunyi, Guizhou 563000, China
| | - Pinzhi Dong
- Department of Immunology, Center of Immunomolecular Engineering, Innovation & Practice Base for Graduate Students Education, Special Key Laboratory of Gene Detection & Therapy, Zunyi Medical University, Zunyi, Guizhou 563000, China
| | - Jin Chen
- Department of Immunology, Center of Immunomolecular Engineering, Innovation & Practice Base for Graduate Students Education, Special Key Laboratory of Gene Detection & Therapy, Zunyi Medical University, Zunyi, Guizhou 563000, China
| | - Langlang Zhang
- Department of Immunology, Center of Immunomolecular Engineering, Innovation & Practice Base for Graduate Students Education, Special Key Laboratory of Gene Detection & Therapy, Zunyi Medical University, Zunyi, Guizhou 563000, China
| | - Yuhan Yang
- Department of Immunology, Center of Immunomolecular Engineering, Innovation & Practice Base for Graduate Students Education, Special Key Laboratory of Gene Detection & Therapy, Zunyi Medical University, Zunyi, Guizhou 563000, China
| | - Lin Xu
- Department of Immunology, Center of Immunomolecular Engineering, Innovation & Practice Base for Graduate Students Education, Special Key Laboratory of Gene Detection & Therapy, Zunyi Medical University, Zunyi, Guizhou 563000, China
| | - Haiyan Wang
- Department of Epidemiology and Health Statistics, Zunyi Medical University, Zunyi, Guizhou 563000, China
| | - Junmin Luo
- Department of Immunology, Center of Immunomolecular Engineering, Innovation & Practice Base for Graduate Students Education, Special Key Laboratory of Gene Detection & Therapy, Zunyi Medical University, Zunyi, Guizhou 563000, China.
| | - Ming Qin
- Department of Immunology, Center of Immunomolecular Engineering, Innovation & Practice Base for Graduate Students Education, Special Key Laboratory of Gene Detection & Therapy, Zunyi Medical University, Zunyi, Guizhou 563000, China; Key Laboratory of Basic Pharmacology of Ministry of Education and Joint International Research Laboratory of Ethnomedicine of Ministry of Education, Zunyi Medical University, Zunyi, Guizhou 563000, China.
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Li X, Hao Y, Yang N, Mao R, Teng D, Wang J. Plectasin: from evolution to truncation, expression, and better druggability. Front Microbiol 2023; 14:1304825. [PMID: 38188573 PMCID: PMC10771296 DOI: 10.3389/fmicb.2023.1304825] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/01/2023] [Accepted: 12/04/2023] [Indexed: 01/09/2024] Open
Abstract
Non-computational classical evolution analysis of plectasin and its functional relatives can especially contribute tool value during access to meet requirements for their better druggability in clinical use. Staphylococcus aureus is a zoonotic pathogen that can infect the skin, blood, and other tissues of humans and animals. The impact of pathogens on humans is exacerbated by the crisis of drug resistance caused by the misuse of antibiotics. In this study, we analyzed the evolution of anti-Staphylococcus target functional sequences, designed a series of plectasin derivatives by truncation, and recombinantly expressed them in Pichia pastoris X-33, from which the best recombinant Ple-AB was selected for the druggability study. The amount of total protein reached 2.9 g/L following 120 h of high-density expression in a 5-L fermenter. Ple-AB was found to have good bactericidal activity against gram-positive bacteria, with minimum inhibitory concentration (MIC) values ranging between 2 and 16 μg/mL. It showed good stability and maintained its bactericidal activity during high temperatures, strong acid and alkali environments. Notably, Ple-AB exhibited better druggability, including excellent trypsin resistance, and still possessed approximately 50% of its initial activity following exposure to simulated intestinal fluids for 1 h. In vitro safety testing of Ple-AB revealed low hemolytic activity against mouse erythrocytes and cytotoxicity against murine-derived macrophages. This study successfully realized the high expression of a new antimicrobial peptide (AMP), Ple-AB, in P. pastoris and the establishment of its oral administration as an additive form with high trypsin resistance; the study also revealed its antibacterial properties, indicating that truncation design is a valuable tool for improving druggability and that the candidate Ple-AB may be a novel promising antimicrobial agent.
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Affiliation(s)
- Xuan Li
- Gene Engineering Laboratory, Feed Research Institute, Chinese Academy of Agricultural Sciences, Beijing, China
- Innovative Team of Antimicrobial Peptides and Alternatives to Antibiotics, Feed Research Institute, Chinese Academy of Agricultural Sciences, Beijing, China
- Key Laboratory of Feed Biotechnology, Chinese Academy of Agricultural Sciences, Department of Agriculture and Rural Affairs, Beijing, China
| | - Ya Hao
- Gene Engineering Laboratory, Feed Research Institute, Chinese Academy of Agricultural Sciences, Beijing, China
- Innovative Team of Antimicrobial Peptides and Alternatives to Antibiotics, Feed Research Institute, Chinese Academy of Agricultural Sciences, Beijing, China
- Key Laboratory of Feed Biotechnology, Chinese Academy of Agricultural Sciences, Department of Agriculture and Rural Affairs, Beijing, China
| | - Na Yang
- Gene Engineering Laboratory, Feed Research Institute, Chinese Academy of Agricultural Sciences, Beijing, China
- Innovative Team of Antimicrobial Peptides and Alternatives to Antibiotics, Feed Research Institute, Chinese Academy of Agricultural Sciences, Beijing, China
- Key Laboratory of Feed Biotechnology, Chinese Academy of Agricultural Sciences, Department of Agriculture and Rural Affairs, Beijing, China
| | - Ruoyu Mao
- Gene Engineering Laboratory, Feed Research Institute, Chinese Academy of Agricultural Sciences, Beijing, China
- Innovative Team of Antimicrobial Peptides and Alternatives to Antibiotics, Feed Research Institute, Chinese Academy of Agricultural Sciences, Beijing, China
- Key Laboratory of Feed Biotechnology, Chinese Academy of Agricultural Sciences, Department of Agriculture and Rural Affairs, Beijing, China
| | - Da Teng
- Gene Engineering Laboratory, Feed Research Institute, Chinese Academy of Agricultural Sciences, Beijing, China
- Innovative Team of Antimicrobial Peptides and Alternatives to Antibiotics, Feed Research Institute, Chinese Academy of Agricultural Sciences, Beijing, China
- Key Laboratory of Feed Biotechnology, Chinese Academy of Agricultural Sciences, Department of Agriculture and Rural Affairs, Beijing, China
| | - Jianhua Wang
- Gene Engineering Laboratory, Feed Research Institute, Chinese Academy of Agricultural Sciences, Beijing, China
- Innovative Team of Antimicrobial Peptides and Alternatives to Antibiotics, Feed Research Institute, Chinese Academy of Agricultural Sciences, Beijing, China
- Key Laboratory of Feed Biotechnology, Chinese Academy of Agricultural Sciences, Department of Agriculture and Rural Affairs, Beijing, China
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Zhou J, Cai Y, Liu Y, An H, Deng K, Ashraf MA, Zou L, Wang J. Breaking down the cell wall: Still an attractive antibacterial strategy. Front Microbiol 2022; 13:952633. [PMID: 36212892 PMCID: PMC9544107 DOI: 10.3389/fmicb.2022.952633] [Citation(s) in RCA: 12] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/25/2022] [Accepted: 08/18/2022] [Indexed: 11/17/2022] Open
Abstract
Since the advent of penicillin, humans have known about and explored the phenomenon of bacterial inhibition via antibiotics. However, with changes in the global environment and the abuse of antibiotics, resistance mechanisms have been selected in bacteria, presenting huge threats and challenges to the global medical and health system. Thus, the study and development of new antimicrobials is of unprecedented urgency and difficulty. Bacteria surround themselves with a cell wall to maintain cell rigidity and protect against environmental insults. Humans have taken advantage of antibiotics to target the bacterial cell wall, yielding some of the most widely used antibiotics to date. The cell wall is essential for bacterial growth and virulence but is absent from humans, remaining a high-priority target for antibiotic screening throughout the antibiotic era. Here, we review the extensively studied targets, i.e., MurA, MurB, MurC, MurD, MurE, MurF, Alr, Ddl, MurI, MurG, lipid A, and BamA in the cell wall, starting from the very beginning to the latest developments to elucidate antimicrobial screening. Furthermore, recent advances, including MraY and MsbA in peptidoglycan and lipopolysaccharide, and tagO, LtaS, LspA, Lgt, Lnt, Tol-Pal, MntC, and OspA in teichoic acid and lipoprotein, have also been profoundly discussed. The review further highlights that the application of new methods such as macromolecular labeling, compound libraries construction, and structure-based drug design will inspire researchers to screen ideal antibiotics.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jingxuan Zhou
- The People’s Hospital of China Three Gorges University, Yichang, Hubei, China
- Hubei Key Laboratory of Tumor Microenvironment and Immunotherapy, College of Basic Medical Sciences, China Three Gorges University, Yichang, Hubei, China
- The Institute of Infection and Inflammation, College of Basic Medical Sciences, China Three Gorges University, Yichang, Hubei, China
| | - Yi Cai
- Hubei Key Laboratory of Tumor Microenvironment and Immunotherapy, College of Basic Medical Sciences, China Three Gorges University, Yichang, Hubei, China
- The Institute of Infection and Inflammation, College of Basic Medical Sciences, China Three Gorges University, Yichang, Hubei, China
| | - Ying Liu
- Hubei Key Laboratory of Tumor Microenvironment and Immunotherapy, College of Basic Medical Sciences, China Three Gorges University, Yichang, Hubei, China
- The Institute of Infection and Inflammation, College of Basic Medical Sciences, China Three Gorges University, Yichang, Hubei, China
| | - Haoyue An
- Hubei Key Laboratory of Tumor Microenvironment and Immunotherapy, College of Basic Medical Sciences, China Three Gorges University, Yichang, Hubei, China
- The Institute of Infection and Inflammation, College of Basic Medical Sciences, China Three Gorges University, Yichang, Hubei, China
| | - Kaihong Deng
- Hubei Key Laboratory of Tumor Microenvironment and Immunotherapy, College of Basic Medical Sciences, China Three Gorges University, Yichang, Hubei, China
- The Institute of Infection and Inflammation, College of Basic Medical Sciences, China Three Gorges University, Yichang, Hubei, China
| | - Muhammad Awais Ashraf
- Department of Microbiology, Government College University Faisalabad, Faisalabad, Pakistan
| | - Lili Zou
- Hubei Key Laboratory of Tumor Microenvironment and Immunotherapy, College of Basic Medical Sciences, China Three Gorges University, Yichang, Hubei, China
- The Institute of Infection and Inflammation, College of Basic Medical Sciences, China Three Gorges University, Yichang, Hubei, China
| | - Jun Wang
- The People’s Hospital of China Three Gorges University, Yichang, Hubei, China
- *Correspondence: Jun Wang,
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Abstract
BACKGROUND Reproductive tract infection is an important factor leading to male and female infertility. Among female infertility factors, microbial and viral infections are the main factors affecting female reproductive health and causing tubal infertility, ectopic tubal pregnancy and premature delivery. Among male infertility factors, 13-15% of male infertility is related to infection. Defensins are cationic antibacterial and antiviral peptides, classified into α-defensins, β-defensins and θ-defensins. Humans only have α-defensins and β-defensins. Apart from their direct antimicrobial functions, defensins have an immunomodulatory function and are involved in many physiological processes. Studies have shown that defensins are widely distributed in the female reproductive tract (FRT) and male reproductive tract (MRT), playing a dual role of host defence and fertility protection. However, to our knowledge, the distribution, regulation and function of defensins in the reproductive tract and their relation to reproduction have not been reviewed. OBJECTIVE AND RATIONALE This review summarizes the expression, distribution and regulation of defensins in the reproductive tracts to reveal the updated research on the dual role of defensins in host defence and the protection of fertility. SEARCH METHODS A systematic search was conducted in PubMed using the related keywords through April 2022. Related data from original researches and reviews were integrated to comprehensively review the current findings and understanding of defensins in the human reproductive system. Meanwhile, female and male transcriptome data in the GEO database were screened to analyze defensins in the human reproductive tracts. OUTCOMES Two transcriptome databases from the GEO database (GSE7307 and GSE150852) combined with existing researches reveal the expression levels and role of the defensins in the reproductive tracts. In the FRT, a high expression level of α-defensin is found, and the expression levels of defensins in the vulva and vagina are higher than those in other organs. The expression of defensins in the endometrium varies with menstrual cycle stages and with microbial invasion. Defensins also participate in the local immune response to regulate the risk of spontaneous preterm birth. In the MRT, a high expression level of β-defensins is also found. It is mainly highly expressed in the epididymal caput and corpus, indicating that defensins play an important role in sperm maturation. The expression of defensins in the MRT varies with androgen levels, age and the status of microbial invasion. They protect the male reproductive system from bacterial infections by neutralizing lipopolysaccharide and downregulating pro-inflammatory cytokines. In addition, animal and clinical studies have shown that defensins play an important role in sperm maturation, motility and fertilization. WIDER IMPLICATIONS As a broad-spectrum antimicrobial peptide without drug resistance, defensin has great potential for developing new natural antimicrobial treatments for reproductive tract infections. However, increasing evidence has shown that defensins can not only inhibit microbial invasion but can also promote the invasion and adhesion of some microorganisms in certain biological environments, such as human immunodeficiency virus. Therefore, the safety of defensins as reproductive tract anti-infective drugs needs more in-depth research. In addition, the modulatory role of defensins in fertility requires more in-depth research since the current conclusions are based on small-size samples. At present, scientists have made many attempts at the clinical transformation of defensins. However, defensins have problems such as poor stability, low bioavailability and difficulties in their synthesis. Therefore, the production of safe, effective and low-cost drugs remains a challenge.
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Affiliation(s)
| | | | - Xue Ma
- Correspondence address. Center for Translational Medicine, Key Laboratory of Birth Defects and Related Diseases of Women and Children (Sichuan University), Ministry of Education, West China Second University Hospital, Sichuan University, Chengdu, Sichuan 610041, China. E-mail: https://orcid.org/0000-0002-7781-821X (F.M.); Department of Pediatric Urology, West China Hospital, Sichuan University, Chengdu, Sichuan 610041, China. E-mail: https://orcid.org/0000-0002-7650-6214 (X.M.)
| | - Fang Ma
- Correspondence address. Center for Translational Medicine, Key Laboratory of Birth Defects and Related Diseases of Women and Children (Sichuan University), Ministry of Education, West China Second University Hospital, Sichuan University, Chengdu, Sichuan 610041, China. E-mail: https://orcid.org/0000-0002-7781-821X (F.M.); Department of Pediatric Urology, West China Hospital, Sichuan University, Chengdu, Sichuan 610041, China. E-mail: https://orcid.org/0000-0002-7650-6214 (X.M.)
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Ke L, Yan WY, Zhang LZ, Zeng ZJ, Evans JD, Huang Q. Honey Bee Habitat Sharing Enhances Gene Flow of the Parasite Nosema ceranae. Microb Ecol 2022; 83:1105-1111. [PMID: 34342699 DOI: 10.1007/s00248-021-01827-3] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/15/2021] [Accepted: 07/19/2021] [Indexed: 06/13/2023]
Abstract
Host-parasite co-evolution is a process of reciprocal, adaptive genetic change. In natural conditions, parasites can shift to other host species, given both host and parasite genotypes allow this. Even though host-parasite co-evolution has been extensively studied both theoretically and empirically, few studies have focused on parasite gene flow between native and novel hosts. Nosema ceranae is a native parasite of the Asian honey bee Apis cerana, which infects epithelial cells of mid-guts. This parasite successfully switched to the European honey bee Apis mellifera, where high virulence has been reported. In this study, we used the parasite N. ceranae and both honey bee species as model organisms to study the impacts of two-host habitat sharing on parasite diversity and virulence. SNVs (Single Nucleotide Variants) were identified from parasites isolated from native and novel hosts from sympatric populations, as well as novel hosts from a parapatric population. Parasites isolated from native hosts showed the highest levels of polymorphism. By comparing the parasites isolated from novel hosts between sympatric and parapatric populations, habitat sharing with the native host significantly enhanced parasite diversity, suggesting there is continuing gene flow of parasites between the two host species in sympatric populations.
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Affiliation(s)
- Li Ke
- Jiangxi Key Laboratory of Honeybee Biology and Beekeeping, Jiangxi Agricultural University, Zhimin Ave. 1101, Nanchang, 330045, China
| | - Wei Yu Yan
- Jiangxi Key Laboratory of Honeybee Biology and Beekeeping, Jiangxi Agricultural University, Zhimin Ave. 1101, Nanchang, 330045, China
| | - Li Zhen Zhang
- Jiangxi Key Laboratory of Honeybee Biology and Beekeeping, Jiangxi Agricultural University, Zhimin Ave. 1101, Nanchang, 330045, China
| | - Zhi Jiang Zeng
- Jiangxi Key Laboratory of Honeybee Biology and Beekeeping, Jiangxi Agricultural University, Zhimin Ave. 1101, Nanchang, 330045, China
| | - Jay D Evans
- USDA-ARS Bee Research Laboratory, BARC-East Building 306, Beltsville, MD, 20705, USA
| | - Qiang Huang
- Jiangxi Key Laboratory of Honeybee Biology and Beekeeping, Jiangxi Agricultural University, Zhimin Ave. 1101, Nanchang, 330045, China.
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Abstract
Candida auris is an emerging, multi drug resistant fungal pathogen that has caused infectious outbreaks in over 45 countries since its first isolation over a decade ago, leading to in-hospital crude mortality rates as high as 72%. The fungus is also acclimated to disinfection procedures and persists for weeks in nosocomial ecosystems. Alarmingly, the outbreaks of C. auris infections in Coronavirus Disease-2019 (COVID-19) patients have also been reported. The pathogenicity, drug resistance and global spread of C. auris have led to an urgent exploration of novel, candidate antifungal agents for C. auris therapeutics. This narrative review codifies the emerging data on the following new/emerging antifungal compounds and strategies: antimicrobial peptides, combinational therapy, immunotherapy, metals and nano particles, natural compounds, and repurposed drugs. Encouragingly, a vast majority of these exhibit excellent anti- C. auris properties, with promising drugs now in the pipeline in various stages of development. Nevertheless, further research on the modes of action, toxicity, and the dosage of the new formulations are warranted. Studies are needed with representation from all five C. auris clades, so as to produce data of grater relevance, and broader significance and validity.
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Mbuayama KR, Taute H, Strӧmstedt AA, Bester MJ, Gaspar ARM. Antifungal activity and mode of action of synthetic peptides derived from the tick OsDef2 defensin. J Pept Sci 2021; 28:e3383. [PMID: 34866278 DOI: 10.1002/psc.3383] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/03/2021] [Revised: 10/28/2021] [Accepted: 11/08/2021] [Indexed: 01/29/2023]
Abstract
Candida albicans is the principal opportunistic fungal pathogen in nosocomial settings and resistance to antifungal drugs is on the rise. Antimicrobial peptides from natural sources are promising novel therapeutics against C. albicans. OsDef2 defensin was previously found to be active against only Gram-positive bacteria, whereas derived fragments Os and its cysteine-free analogue, Os-C, are active against Gram-positive and Gram-negative bacteria at low micromolar concentrations. In this study, OsDef2-derived analogues and fragments were screened for anticandidal activity with the aim to identify peptides with antifungal activity and in so doing obtain a better understanding of the structural requirements for activity and modes of action. Os, Os-C and Os(11-22)NH2 , a Os-truncated carboxy-terminal-amidated fragment, had the most significant antifungal activities, with minimum fungicidal concentrations (MFCs) in the micromolar range (6-28 μM). C. albicans killing was rapid and occurred within 30-60 min. Further investigations showed all three peptides interacted with cell wall derived polysaccharides while both Os and Os(11-22)NH2 permeabilized fungal liposomes. Confocal laser scanning microscopy confirmed that Os-C and Os(11-22)NH2 could enter the cytosol of live cells and subsequent findings suggest that the uptake of Os and Os-C, in contrast to Os(11-22)NH2 , is energy dependent. Although Os, Os-C and Os(11-22)NH2 induced the production of reactive oxygen species (ROS), co-incubation with ascorbic acid revealed that only ROS generated by Os-C and to a lesser extent Os(11-22)NH2 resulted in cell death. Overall, Os, Os-C and Os(11-22)NH2 are promising candidacidal agents.
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Affiliation(s)
- Kabuzi R Mbuayama
- Department of Biochemistry, Genetics and Microbiology, Faculty of Natural and Agricultural Sciences, University of Pretoria, Pretoria, South Africa
| | - Helena Taute
- Department of Anatomy, Faculty of Health Sciences, University of Pretoria, Pretoria, South Africa
| | - Adam A Strӧmstedt
- Pharmacognosy, Department of Pharmaceutical Biosciences, Uppsala University, Uppsala, Sweden
| | - Megan J Bester
- Department of Anatomy, Faculty of Health Sciences, University of Pretoria, Pretoria, South Africa
| | - Anabella R M Gaspar
- Department of Biochemistry, Genetics and Microbiology, Faculty of Natural and Agricultural Sciences, University of Pretoria, Pretoria, South Africa
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Zhang T, Yao J, Xu D, Ma X, Jin W, Lv G, Gu R, Wen H, Zhou Y. Gill physiological and transcriptomic response of the threatened freshwater mussel Solenaia oleivora to salinity shift. Comp Biochem Physiol Part D Genomics Proteomics 2021; 40:100913. [PMID: 34662852 DOI: 10.1016/j.cbd.2021.100913] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/25/2021] [Revised: 08/25/2021] [Accepted: 09/03/2021] [Indexed: 01/16/2023]
Abstract
Solenaia oleivora, a freshwater shellfish endemic to China, is becoming one of the most threatened freshwater mussels owing to water pollution, habitat fragmentation, and overfishing. Hence, exploring its response to different environmental factors is important for its conservation. In this work, we investigated the physiological and transcriptomic response of S. oleivora to increased salinity. We found that increased salinity caused the death of S. oleivora. High salinity caused shrinking and deformation of gill filaments, reduced gill cilia, and induced cell apoptosis in gills. The activities of superoxide dismutase (SOD), catalase (CAT), acid phosphatase (ACP), alkaline phosphatase (AKP), as well as glutathione (GSH) content were increased at the beginning of salinity stress (3-12 h), while SOD and ACP activities decreased at 48 h. Transcriptome data revealed that high salinity stress (48 h) induced 766 differentially expressed genes (DEGs). Among these DEGs, the majority of the stress response and ion transport-related genes were up-regulated, while most of the immune-related genes were down-regulated. In conclusion, these findings suggest that the antioxidant and immune functions of S. oleivora can be inhibited by high salinity, which may be one of the main reasons for its low survival rate under conditions of increasing salinity.
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Nunes S, Ampuero MR, Bonyek-silva Í, Lima R, Lima FR, Arruda SM, Khouri R, Oliveira PRS, Barral A, Boaventura VS, Brodskyn CI, Tavares NM. Keratinocytes and Activation of TREM-1 Pathway in Cutaneous Leishmaniasis Lesions. Microbiology Research 2021; 12:765-78. [DOI: 10.3390/microbiolres12040056] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/16/2022] Open
Abstract
Triggering Receptor Expressed on Myeloid Cells 1 (TREM-1) amplifies the immune response, operating synergistically with Toll-Like Receptors (TLRs) in the production of inflammatory mediators. TREM-1 signaling depends on the adapter protein DAP12, which results in the activation of NFkB, the expression of inflammatory genes, and the release of antimicrobial peptides, such as Beta-defensin 2. We evaluated the activation of the TREM-1 signaling pathways in Cutaneous Leishmaniasis (CL) caused by Leishmania braziliensis and linage human keratinocytes exposed to these parasites since the host immune response against Leishmania plays a critical role in promoting parasite killing but also participates in inflammation and tissue damage. We analyzed publicly available transcriptome data from the lesions of CL patients. In the CL biopsies, we found increased expression of the molecules involved in the TREM-1 pathway. We then validated these findings with RT-qPCR and immunohistochemistry in newly obtained biopsies. Surprisingly, we found a strong labeling of TREM-1 in keratinocytes, prompting the hypothesis that increased TREM-1 activation may be the result of tissue damage. However, increased TREM-1 expression was only seen in human lineage keratinocytes following parasite stimulation. Moreover, no up-regulation of TREM-1 expression was observed in the skin lesions caused by other non-infectious inflammatory diseases. Together, these findings indicate that L. braziliensis (Lb) induces the expression of the TREM-1 receptor in tissue keratinocytes regardless of tissue damage, suggesting that non-immune skin cells may play a role in the inflammatory response of CL.
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Abstract
Infectious diseases represent a major cause of deaths worldwide. No vaccine or effective treatment exists nowadays, especially against intracellular pathogens. The increase in multiple drug and superbug antibiotic resistance strains, excessive medication, or misuse of drugs has prompted the search for other safe and effective alternatives. Consistent with this, adjuvants (Latin word "adjuvare": "help or aid") co-administered (Exo) in vaccines have emerged as a promising alternative to initiate and boost an innate, downstream signal that led to adaptative immune response. Nowadays, a promising model of strong immunogens and adjuvants at mucosal sites are the microbial bacterial toxins. Other adjuvants that are also used and might successfully replace aluminum salts in combination with nanotechnology are CpG-ODN, poly IC, type I IFNs, mRNA platforms. Therefore, in the present review, we focused to revisit the old to the new adjuvants compounds, the properties that make them friends in vaccine formulations against infectious diseases.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - I Tuero
- Faculty of Science and Phylosophy, Universidad Peruana Cayetano Heredia, Lima, Peru
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Roznere I, Sinn BT, Daly M, Watters GT. Freshwater mussels (Unionidae) brought into captivity exhibit up-regulation of genes involved in stress and energy metabolism. Sci Rep 2021; 11:2241. [PMID: 33500457 PMCID: PMC7838317 DOI: 10.1038/s41598-021-81856-7] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/04/2020] [Accepted: 12/31/2020] [Indexed: 01/30/2023] Open
Abstract
Approximately two thirds of freshwater mussel species in the United States and Canada are imperiled, and populations are declining rapidly. Translocation and captive management are commonly used to mitigate losses of freshwater mussel biodiversity, but these conservation tools may result in decreased growth and increased mortality. This study uses RNA-Seq to determine how translocation into captivity affects gene expression in Amblema plicata. Mussels were collected from the Muskingum River in Ohio, USA and brought into a captive holding facility. RNA was extracted from gill tissue 11 months post translocation from mussels in captivity and the Muskingum River on the same day. RNA was sequenced on an Illumina HiSeq 2500, and differential expression analysis was performed on de novo assembled transcripts. More than 1200 transcripts were up-regulated in captive mussels, and 246 were assigned functional annotations. Many up-regulated transcripts were involved in energy metabolism and the stress response, such as heat shock proteins and antioxidants. More than 500 transcripts were down-regulated in captive mussels, and 41 were assigned functional annotations. We observed an over-representation of down-regulated transcripts associated with immune response. Our work suggests that A. plicata experienced moderate levels of stress and altered energy metabolism and immune response for at least 11 months post translocation into captivity.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ieva Roznere
- grid.261331.40000 0001 2285 7943Department of Evolution, Ecology, and Organismal Biology, The Ohio State University, Columbus, OH 43210 USA
| | - Brandon T. Sinn
- grid.261485.c0000 0001 2235 8896Department of Biology and Earth Science, Otterbein University, Westerville, OH 43081 USA
| | - Marymegan Daly
- grid.261331.40000 0001 2285 7943Department of Evolution, Ecology, and Organismal Biology, The Ohio State University, Columbus, OH 43210 USA
| | - G. Thomas Watters
- grid.261331.40000 0001 2285 7943Department of Evolution, Ecology, and Organismal Biology, The Ohio State University, Columbus, OH 43210 USA
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12
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Anfinogenova ND, Quinn MT, Schepetkin IA, Atochin DN. Alarmins and c-Jun N-Terminal Kinase (JNK) Signaling in Neuroinflammation. Cells 2020; 9:E2350. [PMID: 33114371 DOI: 10.3390/cells9112350] [Citation(s) in RCA: 22] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/25/2020] [Revised: 10/08/2020] [Accepted: 10/21/2020] [Indexed: 02/07/2023] Open
Abstract
Neuroinflammation is involved in the progression or secondary injury of multiple brain conditions, including stroke and neurodegenerative diseases. Alarmins, also known as damage-associated molecular patterns, are released in the presence of neuroinflammation and in the acute phase of ischemia. Defensins, cathelicidin, high-mobility group box protein 1, S100 proteins, heat shock proteins, nucleic acids, histones, nucleosomes, and monosodium urate microcrystals are thought to be alarmins. They are released from damaged or dying cells and activate the innate immune system by interacting with pattern recognition receptors. Being principal sterile inflammation triggering agents, alarmins are considered biomarkers and therapeutic targets. They are recognized by host cells and prime the innate immune system toward cell death and distress. In stroke, alarmins act as mediators initiating the inflammatory response after the release from the cellular components of the infarct core and penumbra. Increased c-Jun N-terminal kinase (JNK) phosphorylation may be involved in the mechanism of stress-induced release of alarmins. Putative crosstalk between the alarmin-associated pathways and JNK signaling seems to be inherently interwoven. This review outlines the role of alarmins/JNK-signaling in cerebral neurovascular inflammation and summarizes the complex response of cells to alarmins. Emerging anti-JNK and anti-alarmin drug treatment strategies are discussed.
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Thiel Y, Ghayor C, Lindhorst D, Essig H, Weber F, Rücker M, Schumann P. Antimicrobial peptide gene expression in medication-related osteonecrosis of the jaw. Pathol Res Pract 2020; 216:153245. [PMID: 33065485 DOI: 10.1016/j.prp.2020.153245] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/18/2020] [Revised: 09/29/2020] [Accepted: 10/04/2020] [Indexed: 11/29/2022]
Abstract
Bisphosphonates and denosumab are commonly used antiresorptive therapies in patients with bone metastasis and osteoporosis. Medication-related osteonecrosis of the jaw (MRONJ) is a serious side effect of these drugs, and infection has been recognized as a contributing factor. Current therapeutic options for MRONJ show limited effectiveness, therefore necessitating novel treatment strategies. Bisphosphonates have recently been reported to induce the expression of antimicrobial peptides (AMPs), an inherent component of the immune system. Therefore, the aim of the present study was to investigate and compare the influence of the anti-RANKL antibody denosumab and bisphosphonates on the gene expression of selected AMPs: human α-defensin-1, human α-defensin-3, human β-defensin-1, and human β-defensin-3. Bone specimens were collected from patients with MRONJ who had been treated with bisphosphonates (n = 6) or denosumab (n = 6), and from healthy subjects (n = 6) with no history of treatment with bone metabolism-influencing drugs. Reverse transcription-quantitative polymerase chain reaction was used to quantify the expression levels of selected AMPs. Samples from patients treated with denosumab showed significantly higher mRNA expression of human α-defensin-3 and human β-defensin-3 than those from healthy subjects. This finding is similar to previously described upregulated expression of human defensins in patients with MRONJ after bisphosphonates treatment. This suggests that the elevated expression of defensins may be at least a part of the mechanism underlying the pathogenesis of osteonecrosis induced by antiresorptive therapies, which can serve as a new target for potential treatment of MRONJ.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yasmin Thiel
- Department of Oral and Maxillofacial Surgery, University Hospital Zurich, Frauenklinikstrasse 24, CH-8091 Zurich, Switzerland.
| | - Chafik Ghayor
- Center of Dental Medicine, Oral Biotechnology & Bioengineering, University of Zurich, Plattenstrasse 11, CH-8032 Zurich, Switzerland
| | - Daniel Lindhorst
- Department of Oral and Maxillofacial Surgery, University Hospital Zurich, Frauenklinikstrasse 24, CH-8091 Zurich, Switzerland
| | - Harald Essig
- Department of Oral and Maxillofacial Surgery, University Hospital Zurich, Frauenklinikstrasse 24, CH-8091 Zurich, Switzerland
| | - Franz Weber
- Center of Dental Medicine, Oral Biotechnology & Bioengineering, University of Zurich, Plattenstrasse 11, CH-8032 Zurich, Switzerland; Zurich Center for Integrative Human Physiology (ZIHP), University of Zurich, Switzerland
| | - Martin Rücker
- Department of Oral and Maxillofacial Surgery, University Hospital Zurich, Frauenklinikstrasse 24, CH-8091 Zurich, Switzerland
| | - Paul Schumann
- Department of Oral and Maxillofacial Surgery, University Hospital Zurich, Frauenklinikstrasse 24, CH-8091 Zurich, Switzerland
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14
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Abstract
The intestinal epithelium serves as a barrier to discriminate the outside from the inside and is in constant exchange with the luminal contents, including nutrients and the microbiota. Pathogens have evolved mechanisms to overcome the multiple ways of defense in the mucosa, while several members of the microbiota can exhibit pathogenic features once the healthy barrier integrity of the epithelium is disrupted. This not only leads to symptoms accompanying the acute infection but may also contribute to long-term injuries such as genomic instability, which is linked to mutations and cancer. While for Helicobacter pylori a link between infection and cancer is well established, many other bacteria and their virulence factors have only recently been linked to gastrointestinal malignancies through epidemiological as well as mechanistic studies. This review will focus on those pathogens and members of the microbiota that have been linked to genotoxicity in the context of gastric or colorectal cancer. We will address the mechanisms by which such bacteria establish contact with the gastrointestinal epithelium-either via an existing breach in the barrier or via their own virulence factors as well as the mechanisms by which they interfere with host genomic integrity.
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Affiliation(s)
- Kimberly Hartl
- Medical Department, Division of Gastroenterology and Hepatology, Charité-Universtitätsmedizin Berlin, 10117 Berlin, Germany;
- Berlin Institute for Medical Systems Biology, Max Delbrück Center for Molecular Medicine, 10115 Berlin, Germany
| | - Michael Sigal
- Medical Department, Division of Gastroenterology and Hepatology, Charité-Universtitätsmedizin Berlin, 10117 Berlin, Germany;
- Berlin Institute for Medical Systems Biology, Max Delbrück Center for Molecular Medicine, 10115 Berlin, Germany
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15
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Ma Y, Wang C, Li Y, Li J, Wan Q, Chen J, Tay FR, Niu L. Considerations and Caveats in Combating ESKAPE Pathogens against Nosocomial Infections. Adv Sci (Weinh) 2020; 7:1901872. [PMID: 31921562 PMCID: PMC6947519 DOI: 10.1002/advs.201901872] [Citation(s) in RCA: 137] [Impact Index Per Article: 34.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/22/2019] [Revised: 10/04/2019] [Indexed: 05/19/2023]
Abstract
ESKAPE pathogens (Enterococcus faecium, Staphylococcus aureus, Klebsiella pneumoniae, Acinetobacter baumannii, Pseudomonas aeruginosa, and Enterobacter species) are among the most common opportunistic pathogens in nosocomial infections. ESKAPE pathogens distinguish themselves from normal ones by developing a high level of antibiotic resistance that involves multiple mechanisms. Contemporary therapeutic strategies which are potential options in combating ESKAPE bacteria need further investigation. Herein, a broad overview of the antimicrobial research on ESKAPE pathogens over the past five years is provided with prospective clinical applications.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yu‐Xuan Ma
- State Key Laboratory of Military StomatologyNational Clinical Research Center for Oral DiseasesShaanxi Key Laboratory of StomatologyDepartment of ProsthodonticsSchool of StomatologyThe Fourth Military Medical University145 Changle West RoadXi'anShaanxi710032P. R. China
| | - Chen‐Yu Wang
- State Key Laboratory of Military StomatologyNational Clinical Research Center for Oral DiseasesShaanxi Key Laboratory of StomatologyDepartment of ProsthodonticsSchool of StomatologyThe Fourth Military Medical University145 Changle West RoadXi'anShaanxi710032P. R. China
| | - Yuan‐Yuan Li
- State Key Laboratory of Military StomatologyNational Clinical Research Center for Oral DiseasesShaanxi Key Laboratory of StomatologyDepartment of ProsthodonticsSchool of StomatologyThe Fourth Military Medical University145 Changle West RoadXi'anShaanxi710032P. R. China
| | - Jing Li
- State Key Laboratory of Military StomatologyNational Clinical Research Center for Oral DiseasesShaanxi Key Laboratory of StomatologyDepartment of ProsthodonticsSchool of StomatologyThe Fourth Military Medical University145 Changle West RoadXi'anShaanxi710032P. R. China
| | - Qian‐Qian Wan
- State Key Laboratory of Military StomatologyNational Clinical Research Center for Oral DiseasesShaanxi Key Laboratory of StomatologyDepartment of ProsthodonticsSchool of StomatologyThe Fourth Military Medical University145 Changle West RoadXi'anShaanxi710032P. R. China
| | - Ji‐Hua Chen
- State Key Laboratory of Military StomatologyNational Clinical Research Center for Oral DiseasesShaanxi Key Laboratory of StomatologyDepartment of ProsthodonticsSchool of StomatologyThe Fourth Military Medical University145 Changle West RoadXi'anShaanxi710032P. R. China
| | - Franklin R. Tay
- State Key Laboratory of Military StomatologyNational Clinical Research Center for Oral DiseasesShaanxi Key Laboratory of StomatologyDepartment of ProsthodonticsSchool of StomatologyThe Fourth Military Medical University145 Changle West RoadXi'anShaanxi710032P. R. China
- The Graduate SchoolAugusta University1430, John Wesley Gilbert DriveAugustaGA30912‐1129USA
| | - Li‐Na Niu
- State Key Laboratory of Military StomatologyNational Clinical Research Center for Oral DiseasesShaanxi Key Laboratory of StomatologyDepartment of ProsthodonticsSchool of StomatologyThe Fourth Military Medical University145 Changle West RoadXi'anShaanxi710032P. R. China
- The Graduate SchoolAugusta University1430, John Wesley Gilbert DriveAugustaGA30912‐1129USA
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16
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Ismail NO, Odendaal C, Serem JC, Strömstedt AA, Bester MJ, Sayed Y, Neitz AW, Gaspar AR. Antimicrobial function of short amidated peptide fragments from the tick‐derived OsDef2 defensin. J Pept Sci 2019; 25:e3223. [DOI: 10.1002/psc.3223] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/12/2019] [Revised: 09/20/2019] [Accepted: 09/24/2019] [Indexed: 12/21/2022]
Affiliation(s)
- Naadhira O. Ismail
- Department of Biochemistry, Genetics and MicrobiologyUniversity of Pretoria Private Bag X20, Hatfield 0028 Pretoria South Africa
| | - Clerisa Odendaal
- Department of Biochemistry, Genetics and MicrobiologyUniversity of Pretoria Private Bag X20, Hatfield 0028 Pretoria South Africa
| | - June C. Serem
- Department of AnatomyUniversity of Pretoria Private Bag X323, Arcadia 0007 Pretoria South Africa
| | - Adam A. Strömstedt
- Pharmacognosy, Department of Medicinal ChemistryUppsala University Box 574 Uppsala SE 75123 Sweden
| | - Megan J. Bester
- Department of AnatomyUniversity of Pretoria Private Bag X323, Arcadia 0007 Pretoria South Africa
| | - Yasien Sayed
- Protein Structure‐Function Research Unit, School of Molecular and Cell BiologyUniversity of the Witwatersrand Private Bag 3, WITS 2050 Johannesburg South Africa
| | - Albert W.H. Neitz
- Department of Biochemistry, Genetics and MicrobiologyUniversity of Pretoria Private Bag X20, Hatfield 0028 Pretoria South Africa
| | - Anabella R.M. Gaspar
- Department of Biochemistry, Genetics and MicrobiologyUniversity of Pretoria Private Bag X20, Hatfield 0028 Pretoria South Africa
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Abstract
The evolutionary separated Gram-negative Chlamydiales show a biphasic life cycle and replicate exclusively within eukaryotic host cells. Members of the genus Chlamydia are responsible for many acute and chronic diseases in humans, and Chlamydia-related bacteria are emerging pathogens. We revisit past efforts to detect cell wall material in Chlamydia and Chlamydia-related bacteria in the context of recent breakthroughs in elucidating the underlying cellular and molecular mechanisms of the chlamydial cell wall biosynthesis. In this review, we also discuss the role of cell wall biosynthesis in chlamydial FtsZ-independent cell division and immune modulation. In the past, penicillin susceptibility of an invisible wall was referred to as the "chlamydial anomaly." In light of new mechanistic insights, chlamydiae may now emerge as model systems to understand how a minimal and modified cell wall biosynthetic machine supports bacterial cell division and how cell wall-targeting beta-lactam antibiotics can also act bacteriostatically rather than bactericidal. On the heels of these discussions, we also delve into the effects of other cell wall antibiotics in individual chlamydial lineages.
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18
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Gajdács M. The Continuing Threat of Methicillin-Resistant Staphylococcus aureus. Antibiotics (Basel) 2019; 8:E52. [PMID: 31052511 DOI: 10.3390/antibiotics8020052] [Citation(s) in RCA: 148] [Impact Index Per Article: 29.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/27/2019] [Revised: 04/28/2019] [Accepted: 04/29/2019] [Indexed: 02/06/2023] Open
Abstract
Staphylococcus aureus has been an exceptionally successful pathogen, which is still relevant in modern age-medicine due to its adaptability and tenacity. This bacterium may be a causative agent in a plethora of infections, owing to its abundance (in the environment and in the normal flora) and the variety of virulence factors that it possesses. Methicillin-resistant S. aureus (MRSA) strains—first described in 1961—are characterized by an altered penicillin-binding protein (PBP2a/c) and resistance to all penicillins, cephalosporins, and carbapenems, which makes the β-lactam armamentarium clinically ineffective. The acquisition of additional resistance determinants further complicates their eradication; therefore, MRSA can be considered as the first representative of multidrug-resistant bacteria. Based on 230 references, the aim of this review is to recap the history, the emergence, and clinical features of various MRSA infections (hospital-, community-, and livestock-associated), and to summarize the current advances regarding MRSA screening, typing, and therapeutic options (including lipoglycopeptides, oxazolidinones, anti-MRSA cephalosporins, novel pleuromutilin-, tetracycline- and quinolone-derivatives, daptomycin, fusidic acid, in addition to drug candidates in the development phase), both for an audience of clinical microbiologists and infectious disease specialists.
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19
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Liu WJ, Zhu KL, Xu J, Wang JL, Zhu H. Enediyne-activated, EGFR-targeted human β-defensin 1 has therapeutic efficacy against non-small cell lung carcinoma. J Transl Med 2018; 98:1538-48. [PMID: 30206309 DOI: 10.1038/s41374-018-0109-5] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/02/2018] [Revised: 06/07/2018] [Accepted: 06/28/2018] [Indexed: 11/08/2022] Open
Abstract
Human β-defensins contain an oncolytic motif that binds to tumor cell membranes and mediate permeabilization, rapid induction of cytolysis, and apoptosis. Previous studies have indicated that a fragment of the mature human β-defensin-1 (HBD1) peptide (DF) has antitumor properties. While targeted drug treatments using fusion proteins have been shown to increase drug efficacy, this phenomenon has not been studied for this defensin. Thus, in this study, we designed and prepared a fusion protein containing this HBD1 fragment and an epidermal growth factor receptor (EGFR)-targeting oligopeptide (Ec) as well as lidamycin (LDM), an extremely potent cytotoxic antitumor antibiotic, which consists of an apoprotein (LDP) and a highly active enediyne (AE). The fusion protein (Ec-LDP-DF) and its enediyne-integrated fusion protein (Ec-LDP(AE)-DF) were then purified and used to treat lung carcinoma cells in culture as well as lung carcinoma xenograft mouse models. The multifunctional fusion protein Ec-LDP-DF was shown to effectively bind to EGFR-expressing tumor cells. Furthermore, the enediyne-energized Ec-LDP(AE)-DF analog exhibited extremely potent cytotoxicity in NSCLC cell lines and an IC50 less than 10-10 mol/L. Ec-LDP(AE)-DF also significantly inhibited the growth of human carcinoma A549 and H460 xenografts in athymic mice at well-tolerated doses. Treatment resulted in cell cycle arrest and apoptosis in a dose-dependent manner. EGF-stimulated EGFR phosphorylation was also abolished by Ec-LDP(AE)-DF. In summary, our understanding of the role of defensins in cancer development and progression is continually expanding, and Ec-LDP(AE)-DF is a promising cancer cell-targeting agent for NSCLC.
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20
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Kim WK, Moon JY, Cho JS, Akanda MR, Park BY, Kug Eo S, Park SY, Lee JH, Hur J. Brucella abortus lysed cells using GI24 induce robust immune response and provide effective protection in Beagles. Pathog Dis 2018; 76:4768093. [PMID: 29272378 DOI: 10.1093/femspd/ftx124] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/08/2017] [Accepted: 12/18/2017] [Indexed: 11/14/2022] Open
Abstract
The aim of the present study is to estimate the protective efficacy of Brucella abortus lysed cells by GI24 against brucellosis in Beagles. Group A was subcutaneously (sc) immunized with sterile phosphate-buffered saline, and group B was sc immunized with approximately 3 × 109 of the lysed cells. Brucella-LPS-specific serum IgG titers and IL-4, TNF-α and IFN-γ concentrations were investigated by enzyme linked immunosorbent assay. All dogs were intraconjunctivally challenged with B. abortus strain 544 at 6 weeks post-prime immunization. The serum IgG titers were considerably higher in group B than in group A. The levels of IL-4, TNF-α and IFN-γ in group B than in group A were significantly higher. Following challenge, no challenge strain was observed from all tissues of three dogs of group B. However, challenge strain was detected from spleen, uterus (except one Beagle) and inguinal and retropharyngeal lymph nodes of all group A Beagles. The results of this study demonstrated that sc immunization with the lysed cells induced robust antibody and cell-mediated immune responses in Beagles. The lysed cells also conferred protection against infection with B. abortus. These results suggest that sc immunization with B. abortus lysed cells by GI24 is a good vaccine candidate against brucellosis in dogs.
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Affiliation(s)
- Won Kyong Kim
- College of Veterinary Medicine, Chonbuk National University Special Campus, Iksan, 54596, Republic of Korea
| | - Ja Young Moon
- College of Veterinary Medicine, Chonbuk National University Special Campus, Iksan, 54596, Republic of Korea
| | - Jeong Sang Cho
- College of Veterinary Medicine, Chonbuk National University Special Campus, Iksan, 54596, Republic of Korea
| | - Md Rashedunnabi Akanda
- College of Veterinary Medicine, Chonbuk National University Special Campus, Iksan, 54596, Republic of Korea
| | - Byung Yong Park
- College of Veterinary Medicine, Chonbuk National University Special Campus, Iksan, 54596, Republic of Korea
| | - Seong Kug Eo
- College of Veterinary Medicine, Chonbuk National University Special Campus, Iksan, 54596, Republic of Korea
| | - Sang Youel Park
- College of Veterinary Medicine, Chonbuk National University Special Campus, Iksan, 54596, Republic of Korea
| | - John Hwa Lee
- College of Veterinary Medicine, Chonbuk National University Special Campus, Iksan, 54596, Republic of Korea
| | - Jin Hur
- College of Veterinary Medicine, Chonbuk National University Special Campus, Iksan, 54596, Republic of Korea
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21
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Basso V, Garcia A, Tran DQ, Schaal JB, Tran P, Ngole D, Aqeel Y, Tongaonkar P, Ouellette AJ, Selsted ME. Fungicidal Potency and Mechanisms of θ-Defensins against Multidrug-Resistant Candida Species. Antimicrob Agents Chemother 2018; 62:e00111-18. [PMID: 29610196 DOI: 10.1128/AAC.00111-18] [Citation(s) in RCA: 26] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/18/2018] [Accepted: 03/26/2018] [Indexed: 12/24/2022] Open
Abstract
Systemic candidiasis is a growing health care concern that is becoming even more challenging due to the growing frequency of infections caused by multidrug-resistant (MDR) Candida species. Thus, there is an urgent need for new therapeutic approaches to candidiasis, including strategies bioinspired by insights into natural host defense against fungal pathogens. The antifungal properties of θ-defensins, macrocyclic peptides expressed in tissues of Old World monkeys, were investigated against a panel of drug-sensitive and drug-resistant clinical isolates of Candida albicans and non-albicans Candida species. Rhesus θ-defensin 1 (RTD-1), the prototype θ-defensin, was rapidly and potently fungicidal against drug-sensitive and MDR C. albicans strains. Fungal killing occurred by cell permeabilization that was temporally correlated with ATP release and intracellular accumulation of reactive oxygen species (ROS). Killing by RTD-1 was compared with that by histatin 5 (Hst 5), an extensively characterized anticandidal peptide expressed in human saliva. RTD-1 killed C. albicans much more rapidly and at a >200-fold lower concentration than that of Hst 5. Unlike Hst 5, the anticandidal activity of RTD-1 was independent of mitochondrial ATP production. Moreover, RTD-1 was completely resistant to Candida proteases for 2 h under conditions that rapidly and completely degraded Hst 5. MICs and minimum fungicidal concentrations (MFCs) of 14 natural θ-defensins isoforms against drug-resistant C. albicans isolates identified peptides that are more active than amphotericin B and/or caspofungin against fluconazole-resistant organisms, including MDR Candida auris. These results point to the potential of macrocyclic θ-defensins as structural templates for the design of antifungal therapeutics.
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22
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Du Y, Shang BY, Sheng WJ, Zhang SH, Li Y, Miao QF, Zhen YS. A recombinantly tailored β-defensin that displays intensive macropinocytosis-mediated uptake exerting potent efficacy against K-Ras mutant pancreatic cancer. Oncotarget 2018; 7:58418-58434. [PMID: 27517152 PMCID: PMC5295440 DOI: 10.18632/oncotarget.11170] [Citation(s) in RCA: 17] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/06/2016] [Accepted: 07/27/2016] [Indexed: 12/30/2022] Open
Abstract
K-Ras mutant pancreatic cancer cells display intensive macropinocytosis, indicating that this process may be exploited in the design of anticancer targeted therapies. In this study, we constructed a macropinocytosis-oriented recombinantly tailored defensin (DF-HSA) which consists of human β-defensin-2 (DF) and human serum albumin (HSA). The macropinocytosis intensity and cytotoxicity of DF-HSA were investigated in K-Ras mutant MIA PaCa-2 cells and wild-type BxPC-3 cells. As found, the DF-HSA uptake in MIA PaCa-2 cells was much higher than that in wild-type BxPC-3 cells. Correspondingly, the cytotoxicity of DF-HSA to MIA PaCa-2 cells was more potent than that to BxPC-3 cells. In addition, the cytotoxicity of DF-HSA was much stronger than that of β-defensin HBD2. DF-HSA suppressed cancer cell proliferation and induced mitochondrial pathway apoptosis. Notably, DF-HSA significantly inhibited the growth of human pancreatic carcinoma MIA PaCa-2 xenograft in athymic mice at well tolerated dose. By in vivo imaging, DF-HSA displayed a prominent accumulation in the tumor. The study indicates that the recombinantly tailored β-defensin can intensively enter into the K-Ras mutant pancreatic cancer cells through macropinocytosis-mediated process and exert potent therapeutic efficacy against the pancreatic carcinoma xenograft. The novel format of β-defensin may play an active role in macropinocytosis-mediated targeting therapy.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yue Du
- Institute of Medicinal Biotechnology, Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences and Perking Union Medical College, Beijing, P.R. China
| | - Bo-Yang Shang
- Institute of Medicinal Biotechnology, Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences and Perking Union Medical College, Beijing, P.R. China
| | - Wei-Jin Sheng
- Institute of Medicinal Biotechnology, Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences and Perking Union Medical College, Beijing, P.R. China
| | - Sheng-Hua Zhang
- Institute of Medicinal Biotechnology, Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences and Perking Union Medical College, Beijing, P.R. China
| | - Yi Li
- Institute of Medicinal Biotechnology, Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences and Perking Union Medical College, Beijing, P.R. China
| | - Qing-Fang Miao
- Institute of Medicinal Biotechnology, Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences and Perking Union Medical College, Beijing, P.R. China
| | - Yong-Su Zhen
- Institute of Medicinal Biotechnology, Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences and Perking Union Medical College, Beijing, P.R. China
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23
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Manzo G, Serra I, Pira A, Pintus M, Ceccarelli M, Casu M, Rinaldi AC, Scorciapino MA. The singular behavior of a β-type semi-synthetic two branched polypeptide: three-dimensional structure and mode of action. Phys Chem Chem Phys 2018; 18:30998-31011. [PMID: 27805179 DOI: 10.1039/c6cp05464a] [Citation(s) in RCA: 13] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/07/2023]
Abstract
Dendrimeric peptides make a versatile group of bioactive peptidomimetics and a potential new class of antimicrobial agents to tackle the pressing threat of multi-drug resistant pathogens. These are branched supramolecular assemblies where multiple copies of the bioactive unit are linked to a central core. Beyond their antimicrobial activity, dendrimeric peptides could also be designed to functionalize the surface of nanoparticles or materials for other medical uses. Despite these properties, however, little is known about the structure-function relationship of such compounds, which is key to unveil the fundamental physico-chemical parameters and design analogues with desired attributes. To close this gap, we focused on a semi-synthetic, two-branched peptide, SB056, endowed with remarkable activity against both Gram-positive and Gram-negative bacteria and limited cytotoxicity. SB056 can be considered the smallest prototypical dendrimeric peptide, with the core restricted to a single lysine residue and only two copies of the same highly cationic 10-mer polypeptide; an octanamide tail is present at the C-terminus. Combining NMR and Molecular Dynamics simulations, we have determined the 3D structure of two analogues. Fluorescence spectroscopy was applied to investigate the water-bilayer partition in the presence of vesicles of variable charge. Vesicle leakage assays were also performed and the experimental data were analyzed by applying an iterative Monte Carlo scheme to estimate the minimum number of bound peptides needed to achieve the release. We unveiled a singular beta hairpin-type structure determined by the peptide chains only, with the octanamide tail available for further functionalization to add new potential properties without affecting the structure.
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Affiliation(s)
- Giorgia Manzo
- Department of Biomedical Sciences - Biochemistry Unit, University of Cagliari, Monserrato, CA, Italy.
| | - Ilaria Serra
- Department of Chemical and Geological Sciences, University of Cagliari, Monserrato, CA, Italy
| | - Alessandro Pira
- Department of Chemical and Geological Sciences, University of Cagliari, Monserrato, CA, Italy
| | - Manuela Pintus
- Department of Biomedical Sciences - Biochemistry Unit, University of Cagliari, Monserrato, CA, Italy.
| | - Matteo Ceccarelli
- Department of Physics, University of Cagliari, Monserrato, CA, Italy
| | - Mariano Casu
- Department of Physics, University of Cagliari, Monserrato, CA, Italy
| | - Andrea C Rinaldi
- Department of Biomedical Sciences - Biochemistry Unit, University of Cagliari, Monserrato, CA, Italy.
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24
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Moe MK, Haug T, Sydnes MO, Sperstad SV, Li C, Vaagsfjord LC, de la Vega E, Stensvåg K. Paralithocins, Antimicrobial Peptides with Unusual Disulfide Connectivity from the Red King Crab, Paralithodes camtschaticus. J Nat Prod 2018; 81:140-150. [PMID: 29338238 DOI: 10.1021/acs.jnatprod.7b00780] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 06/07/2023]
Abstract
As part of an ongoing exploration of marine invertebrates as a source of new antimicrobial peptides, hemocyte extracts from the red king crab, Paralithodes camtschaticus, were studied. Three cationic cysteine (Cys)-rich peptides, named paralithocins 1-3, were isolated by bioassay-guided purification, and their amino acid sequences determined by Edman degradation and expressed sequences tag analysis. Disulfide bond mapping was performed by high-resolution tandem mass spectrometry. The peptides (38-51 amino acids in length) share a unique Cys motif composed of eight Cys, forming four disulfide bridges with a bond connectivity of (Cys relative position) Cys1-Cys8, Cys2-Cys6, Cys3-Cys5, and Cys4-Cys7, a disulfide arrangement that has not been previously reported among antimicrobial peptides. Thus, paralithocins 1-3 may be assigned to a previously unknown family of antimicrobial peptides within the group of Cys-rich antimicrobial peptides. Although none of the isolated peptides displayed antimicrobial activity against the target strains Escherichia coli, Pseudomonas aeruginosa, or Staphylococcus aureus, they inhibited the growth of several marine bacterial strains with minimal inhibitory concentrations in the 12.5-100 μM range. These findings corroborate the hypothesis that marine organisms are a valuable source for discovering bioactive peptides with new structural motifs.
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Affiliation(s)
- Morten K Moe
- Multidiciplinary Laboratory Medicine and Medical Biochemistry, Akershus University Hospital (Ahus) , NO-1478 Lørenskog, Norway
| | - Tor Haug
- Norwegian College of Fishery Science, Faculty of Biosciences, Fisheries and Economics, UiT The Arctic University of Norway , Breivika, N-9037 Tromsø, Norway
| | - Magne O Sydnes
- Biomiljø, International Research Institute of Stavanger , Mekjarvik 12, NO-4070 Randaberg, Norway
- Department of Mathematics and Natural Science, University of Stavanger , NO-4036 Stavanger, Norway
| | - Sigmund V Sperstad
- Norwegian College of Fishery Science, Faculty of Biosciences, Fisheries and Economics, UiT The Arctic University of Norway , Breivika, N-9037 Tromsø, Norway
| | - Chun Li
- Norwegian College of Fishery Science, Faculty of Biosciences, Fisheries and Economics, UiT The Arctic University of Norway , Breivika, N-9037 Tromsø, Norway
| | - Lena C Vaagsfjord
- Norwegian College of Fishery Science, Faculty of Biosciences, Fisheries and Economics, UiT The Arctic University of Norway , Breivika, N-9037 Tromsø, Norway
| | - Enrique de la Vega
- Marine Biomedicine and Environmental Sciences Center, Medical University of South Carolina , 221 Ft. Johnson Road, Charleston, South Carolina 29412, United States
| | - Klara Stensvåg
- Norwegian College of Fishery Science, Faculty of Biosciences, Fisheries and Economics, UiT The Arctic University of Norway , Breivika, N-9037 Tromsø, Norway
- Marine Biomedicine and Environmental Sciences Center, Medical University of South Carolina , 221 Ft. Johnson Road, Charleston, South Carolina 29412, United States
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Pachón-Ibáñez ME, Smani Y, Pachón J, Sánchez-Céspedes J. Perspectives for clinical use of engineered human host defense antimicrobial peptides. FEMS Microbiol Rev 2018; 41:323-342. [PMID: 28521337 PMCID: PMC5435762 DOI: 10.1093/femsre/fux012] [Citation(s) in RCA: 92] [Impact Index Per Article: 15.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/10/2016] [Accepted: 02/28/2017] [Indexed: 12/15/2022] Open
Abstract
Infectious diseases caused by bacteria, viruses or fungi are among the leading causes of death worldwide. The emergence of drug-resistance mechanisms, especially among bacteria, threatens the efficacy of all current antimicrobial agents, some of them already ineffective. As a result, there is an urgent need for new antimicrobial drugs. Host defense antimicrobial peptides (HDPs) are natural occurring and well-conserved peptides of innate immunity, broadly active against Gram-negative and Gram-positive bacteria, viruses and fungi. They also are able to exert immunomodulatory and adjuvant functions by acting as chemotactic for immune cells, and inducing cytokines and chemokines secretion. Moreover, they show low propensity to elicit microbial adaptation, probably because of their non-specific mechanism of action, and are able to neutralize exotoxins and endotoxins. HDPs have the potential to be a great source of novel antimicrobial agents. The goal of this review is to provide an overview of the advances made in the development of human defensins as well as the cathelicidin LL-37 and their derivatives as antimicrobial agents against bacteria, viruses and fungi for clinical use.
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Affiliation(s)
- María Eugenia Pachón-Ibáñez
- Clinical Unit of Infectious Diseases, Microbiology and Preventive Medicine, Institute of Biomedicine of Seville (IBiS), University Hospital Virgen del Rocío/CSIC/University of Seville
| | - Younes Smani
- Clinical Unit of Infectious Diseases, Microbiology and Preventive Medicine, Institute of Biomedicine of Seville (IBiS), University Hospital Virgen del Rocío/CSIC/University of Seville
| | - Jerónimo Pachón
- Clinical Unit of Infectious Diseases, Microbiology and Preventive Medicine, Institute of Biomedicine of Seville (IBiS), University Hospital Virgen del Rocío/CSIC/University of Seville.,Department of Medicine, University of Seville, Seville, Spain
| | - Javier Sánchez-Céspedes
- Clinical Unit of Infectious Diseases, Microbiology and Preventive Medicine, Institute of Biomedicine of Seville (IBiS), University Hospital Virgen del Rocío/CSIC/University of Seville.,Department of Medicine, University of Seville, Seville, Spain
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Abstract
Fungi-derived defensins are a class of antimicrobial peptides with therapeutic potential due to their high antibacterial efficacy and low toxicity. Based on the genomic strategy, we have identified 68 fungal defensin-like peptides (fDLPs) in five new genera, including Trichosporon, Apophysomyces, Lichtheimia, Beauveria and Scedosporium and characterized a new synthetic defensin (scedosporisin) from an invasive fungus. It was active against Gram-positive bacteria but not active against negative bacteria. Importantly, it killed several clinical resistant isolates such as methicillin-resistant Staphylococcus aureus and vancomycin-resistant Enterococci at low molecular concentrations. Scedosporisin showed low hemolysis and cytotoxicity and high serum stability. The killing kinetics of scedosporisin-2 against a clinical isolate of MRSA showed that it killed the bacteria more rapidly than that of vancomycin. Homology modeling analysis show that scedosporisin adopted a typical cysteine stabilized α-helical and β-sheet fold with a local hydrophobic patch. Scedosporisin significantly improved the survival rate of mice in the peritonitis model. This work has greatly expanded the library of fDLPs, and successfully selected leading molecules for antimicrobial drug reserves.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jiajia Wu
- Laboratory for Biological Effects of Nanomaterials and Nanosafety, National Center for Nanoscience and Technology (NCNST), No. 11 Beiyitiao, Zhongguancun, Beijing 100190, China
| | - Shijie Liu
- Laboratory for Biological Effects of Nanomaterials and Nanosafety, National Center for Nanoscience and Technology (NCNST), No. 11 Beiyitiao, Zhongguancun, Beijing 100190, China
| | - Hao Wang
- Laboratory for Biological Effects of Nanomaterials and Nanosafety, National Center for Nanoscience and Technology (NCNST), No. 11 Beiyitiao, Zhongguancun, Beijing 100190, China.
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27
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Romero-Gutierrez T, Peguero-Sanchez E, Cevallos MA, Batista CVF, Ortiz E, Possani LD. A Deeper Examination of Thorellius atrox Scorpion Venom Components with Omic Techonologies. Toxins (Basel) 2017; 9:E399. [PMID: 29231872 PMCID: PMC5744119 DOI: 10.3390/toxins9120399] [Citation(s) in RCA: 30] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/27/2017] [Revised: 12/07/2017] [Accepted: 12/08/2017] [Indexed: 02/02/2023] Open
Abstract
This communication reports a further examination of venom gland transcripts and venom composition of the Mexican scorpion Thorellius atrox using RNA-seq and tandem mass spectrometry. The RNA-seq, which was performed with the Illumina protocol, yielded more than 20,000 assembled transcripts. Following a database search and annotation strategy, 160 transcripts were identified, potentially coding for venom components. A novel sequence was identified that potentially codes for a peptide with similarity to spider ω-agatoxins, which act on voltage-gated calcium channels, not known before to exist in scorpion venoms. Analogous transcripts were found in other scorpion species. They could represent members of a new scorpion toxin family, here named omegascorpins. The mass fingerprint by LC-MS identified 135 individual venom components, five of which matched with the theoretical masses of putative peptides translated from the transcriptome. The LC-MS/MS de novo sequencing allowed to reconstruct and identify 42 proteins encoded by assembled transcripts, thus validating the transcriptome analysis. Earlier studies conducted with this scorpion venom permitted the identification of only twenty putative venom components. The present work performed with more powerful and modern omic technologies demonstrates the capacity of accomplishing a deeper characterization of scorpion venom components and the identification of novel molecules with potential applications in biomedicine and the study of ion channel physiology.
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Affiliation(s)
- Teresa Romero-Gutierrez
- Departamento de Medicina Molecular y Bioprocesos, Instituto de Biotecnología, Universidad Nacional Autónoma de México, Avenida Universidad 2001, Apartado Postal 510-3, Cuernavaca CP: 62210, Morelos, Mexico.
| | - Esteban Peguero-Sanchez
- Departamento de Microbiología Molecular, Instituto de Biotecnología, Universidad Nacional Autónoma de México, Avenida Universidad 2001, Apartado Postal 510-3, Cuernavaca CP: 62210, Morelos, Mexico.
| | - Miguel A Cevallos
- Programa de Genómica Evolutiva, Centro de Ciencias Genómicas, Universidad Nacional Autónoma de México, Apartado Postal 510-3, Cuernavaca CP: 62210, Morelos, Mexico.
| | - Cesar V F Batista
- Laboratorio Universitario de Proteómica, Instituto de Biotecnología, Universidad Nacional Autónoma de México, Avenida Universidad 2001, Apartado Postal 510-3, Cuernavaca CP: 62210, Morelos, Mexico.
| | - Ernesto Ortiz
- Departamento de Medicina Molecular y Bioprocesos, Instituto de Biotecnología, Universidad Nacional Autónoma de México, Avenida Universidad 2001, Apartado Postal 510-3, Cuernavaca CP: 62210, Morelos, Mexico.
| | - Lourival D Possani
- Departamento de Medicina Molecular y Bioprocesos, Instituto de Biotecnología, Universidad Nacional Autónoma de México, Avenida Universidad 2001, Apartado Postal 510-3, Cuernavaca CP: 62210, Morelos, Mexico.
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Mylonakis E, Podsiadlowski L, Muhammed M, Vilcinskas A. Diversity, evolution and medical applications of insect antimicrobial peptides. Philos Trans R Soc Lond B Biol Sci 2017; 371:rstb.2015.0290. [PMID: 27160593 PMCID: PMC4874388 DOI: 10.1098/rstb.2015.0290] [Citation(s) in RCA: 132] [Impact Index Per Article: 18.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 02/08/2016] [Indexed: 12/30/2022] Open
Abstract
Antimicrobial peptides (AMPs) are short proteins with antimicrobial activity. A large portion of known AMPs originate from insects, and the number and diversity of these molecules in different species varies considerably. Insect AMPs represent a potential source of alternative antibiotics to address the limitation of current antibiotics, which has been caused by the emergence and spread of multidrug-resistant pathogens. To get more insight into AMPs, we investigated the diversity and evolution of insect AMPs by mapping their phylogenetic distribution, allowing us to predict the evolutionary origins of selected AMP families and to identify evolutionarily conserved and taxon-specific families. Furthermore, we highlight the use of the nematode Caenorhabditis elegans as a whole-animal model in high-throughput screening methods to identify AMPs with efficacy against human pathogens, including Acinetobacter baumanii and methicillin-resistant Staphylococcus aureus. We also discuss the potential medical applications of AMPs, including their use as alternatives for conventional antibiotics in ectopic therapies, their combined use with antibiotics to restore the susceptibility of multidrug-resistant pathogens, and their use as templates for the rational design of peptidomimetic drugs that overcome the disadvantages of therapeutic peptides. The article is part of the themed issue ‘Evolutionary ecology of arthropod antimicrobial peptides’.
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Affiliation(s)
- Eleftherios Mylonakis
- Division of Infectious Disease, Warren Alpert Medical School of Brown University, Rhode Island Hospital, Providence, RI, USA
| | - Lars Podsiadlowski
- Institute of Evolutionary Biology and Zooecology, University of Bonn, Bonn, Germany
| | - Maged Muhammed
- Division of Infectious Disease, Warren Alpert Medical School of Brown University, Rhode Island Hospital, Providence, RI, USA
| | - Andreas Vilcinskas
- Institute for Insect Biotechnology, Justus-Liebig-University of Giessen, Giessen, Germany Department of Bioresources, Fraunhofer Institute for Molecular Biology and Applied Ecology, Giessen, Germany
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29
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Franzoi M, van Heuvel Y, Thomann S, Schürch N, Kallio PT, Venier P, Essig A. Structural Insights into the Mode of Action of the Peptide Antibiotic Copsin. Biochemistry 2017; 56:4992-5001. [PMID: 28825809 DOI: 10.1021/acs.biochem.7b00697] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/30/2022]
Abstract
Defensins make up a class of cysteine-rich antimicrobial peptides, expressed by virtually all eukaryotes as part of their innate immune response. Because of their unique mode of action and rapid killing of pathogenic microbes, defensins are considered promising alternatives to clinically applied antibiotics. Copsin is a defensin-like peptide, previously identified in the mushroom Coprinopsis cinerea. It exerts its activity against a range of Gram-positive bacteria by binding to the peptidoglycan precursor lipid II and prevention of proper cell wall formation. In this study, we present a new workflow for the generation, production, and activity-driven selection of copsin derivatives, based on their expression in Pichia pastoris. One hundred fifty-two single-amino acid mutants and combinations thereof allowed the identification of k-copsin, a peptide variant exhibiting significantly enhanced activity against Bacillus subtilis and Staphylococcus aureus. Furthermore, we performed in silico characterizations of membrane interactions of copsin and k-copsin, in the presence and absence of lipid II. The molecular dynamics data highlighted a high variability in lipid II binding, with a preference for the MurNAc moiety with 47 and 35% of the total contacts for copsin and k-copsin, respectively. Mutated amino acids were located in loop regions of k-copsin and shown to be crucial in the perturbation of the bacterial membrane. These structural studies provide a better understanding of how defensins can be developed toward antibacterial therapies less prone to resistance issues.
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Affiliation(s)
- Marco Franzoi
- Department of Biology, University of Padova , Via Ugo Bassi 58/B, Padova 35131, Italy
| | - Yasemin van Heuvel
- Institute of Microbiology, Swiss Federal Institute of Technology, ETH Zurich , CH-8093 Zurich, Switzerland
| | - Susanne Thomann
- Biology Division, Spiez Laboratory, Federal Office for Civil Protection , CH-3700 Spiez, Switzerland
| | - Nadia Schürch
- Biology Division, Spiez Laboratory, Federal Office for Civil Protection , CH-3700 Spiez, Switzerland
| | - Pauli T Kallio
- Institute of Microbiology, Swiss Federal Institute of Technology, ETH Zurich , CH-8093 Zurich, Switzerland
| | - Paola Venier
- Department of Biology, University of Padova , Via Ugo Bassi 58/B, Padova 35131, Italy
| | - Andreas Essig
- Institute of Microbiology, Swiss Federal Institute of Technology, ETH Zurich , CH-8093 Zurich, Switzerland
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30
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Abstract
Covering: up to 2017History points to the bacterial cell wall biosynthetic network as a very effective target for antibiotic intervention, and numerous natural product inhibitors have been discovered. In addition to the inhibition of enzymes involved in the multistep synthesis of the macromolecular layer, in particular, interference with membrane-bound substrates and intermediates essential for the biosynthetic reactions has proven a valuable antibacterial strategy. A prominent target within the peptidoglycan biosynthetic pathway is lipid II, which represents a particular "Achilles' heel" for antibiotic attack, as it is readily accessible on the outside of the cytoplasmic membrane. Lipid II is a unique non-protein target that is one of the structurally most conserved molecules in bacterial cells. Notably, lipid II is more than just a target molecule, since sequestration of the cell wall precursor may be combined with additional antibiotic activities, such as the disruption of membrane integrity or disintegration of membrane-bound multi-enzyme machineries. Within the membrane bilayer lipid II is likely organized in specific anionic phospholipid patches that form a particular "landing platform" for antibiotics. Nature has invented a variety of different "lipid II binders" of at least 5 chemical classes, and their antibiotic activities can vary substantially depending on the compounds' physicochemical properties, such as amphiphilicity and charge, and thus trigger diverse cellular effects that are decisive for antibiotic activity.
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Affiliation(s)
- Anna Müller
- Institute of Pharmaceutical Microbiology, University of Bonn, Bonn, Germany.
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31
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Chen YC, Lin AS, Hung YC, Chen KD, Wu CY, Lie CH, Hsiao CC, Chen CJ, Liu SF, Fang WF, Chang JC, Wang TY, Wang YH, Chung YH, Chao TY, Leung SY, Su MC, Lin MC. Whole genome gene expression changes and hematological effects of rikkunshito in patients with advanced non-small cell lung cancer receiving first line chemotherapy. Exp Ther Med 2017; 14:2040-2052. [PMID: 28962123 PMCID: PMC5609175 DOI: 10.3892/etm.2017.4773] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/30/2016] [Accepted: 03/24/2017] [Indexed: 01/18/2023] Open
Abstract
It has been demonstrated that the traditional Chinese medicine rikkunshito, ameliorates anorexia in several types of human cancer and attenuates lung injury by inhibiting neutrophil infiltration. The current study investigated the clinical and hematological effects of rikkunshito and its underlying mechanisms of action in the treatment of advanced non-small cell lung cancer (NSCLC). The Illumina microarray BeadChip was used to analyze the whole-genome expression profiles of peripheral blood mononuclear cells in 17 patients with advanced NSCLC. These patients were randomized to receive combination chemotherapy (cisplatin and gemcitabine) with (n=9, CTH+R group) or without (n=8, CTH group) rikkunshito. The primary endpoint was the treatment response and the categories of the scales of anorexia, nausea, vomiting and fatigue; secondary endpoints included the hematological effect and whole genome gene expression changes. The results of the current study indicated that there were no significant differences in clinical outcomes, including treatment response and toxicity events, between the two groups. Median one-year overall survival (OS) was 12 months in the CTH group and 11 months in the CTH+R group (P=0.058 by log-rank test), while old age (>60 years old) was the only independent factor associated with one-year OS (hazard ratio 1.095, 95% confidence interval, 1.09–1.189, P=0.030). Patients in the CTH+R group experienced significantly greater maximum decreases in both white cell count (P=0.034) and absolute neutrophil count (P=0.030) from the baseline. A total of 111 genes associated with neutrophil apoptosis, the cell-killing ability of neutrophils, natural killer cell activation and B cell proliferation were up-regulated following rikkunshito treatment. A total of 48 genes associated with neutrophil migration, coagulation, thrombosis and type I interferon signaling were down-regulated following rikkunshito treatment. Rikkunshito may therefore affect the blood neutrophil count when used with combination chemotherapy in patients with NSCLC, potentially by down-regulating prostaglandin-endoperoxidase synthase 1, MPL, AMICA1 and junctional adhesion molecule 3, while up-regulating elastase, neutrophil expressed, proteinase 3, cathepsin G and cluster of differentiation 24.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yung-Che Chen
- Division of Pulmonary and Critical Care Medicine, Kaohsiung Chang Gung Memorial Hospital and Chang Gung University College of Medicine, Kaohsiung 83301, Taiwan R.O.C.,Division of Rheumatology, Kaohsiung Chang Gung Memorial Hospital and Chang Gung University College of Medicine, Kaohsiung 83301, Taiwan R.O.C
| | - An-Shen Lin
- Division of Pulmonary and Critical Care Medicine, Kaohsiung Chang Gung Memorial Hospital and Chang Gung University College of Medicine, Kaohsiung 83301, Taiwan R.O.C
| | - Yu-Chiang Hung
- Department of Chinese Medicine and School of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Kaohsiung Chang Gung Memorial Hospital and Chang Gung University College of Medicine, Kaohsiung 83301, Taiwan R.O.C
| | - Kuang-Den Chen
- Center for Translational Research in Biomedical Science, Kaohsiung Chang Gung Memorial Hospital and Chang Gung University College of Medicine, Kaohsiung 83301, Taiwan R.O.C
| | - Ching-Yuan Wu
- Department of Chinese Medicine, Chiayi Chang Gung Memorial Hospital, Chiayi 61361, Taiwan R.O.C
| | - Chien-Hao Lie
- Division of Pulmonary and Critical Care Medicine, Kaohsiung Chang Gung Memorial Hospital and Chang Gung University College of Medicine, Kaohsiung 83301, Taiwan R.O.C
| | - Chang-Chun Hsiao
- Division of Rheumatology, Kaohsiung Chang Gung Memorial Hospital and Chang Gung University College of Medicine, Kaohsiung 83301, Taiwan R.O.C
| | - Chung-Jen Chen
- Graduate Institute of Clinical Medical Sciences, Chang Gung University College of Medicine, Kaohsiung 83301, Taiwan R.O.C
| | - Shih-Feng Liu
- Division of Pulmonary and Critical Care Medicine, Kaohsiung Chang Gung Memorial Hospital and Chang Gung University College of Medicine, Kaohsiung 83301, Taiwan R.O.C
| | - Wen-Feng Fang
- Division of Pulmonary and Critical Care Medicine, Kaohsiung Chang Gung Memorial Hospital and Chang Gung University College of Medicine, Kaohsiung 83301, Taiwan R.O.C.,Department of Respiratory Care, Chang Gung University of Technology, Chiayi 61363, Taiwan R.O.C
| | - Jen-Chieh Chang
- Division of Rheumatology, Kaohsiung Chang Gung Memorial Hospital and Chang Gung University College of Medicine, Kaohsiung 83301, Taiwan R.O.C
| | - Ting-Ya Wang
- Division of Pulmonary and Critical Care Medicine, Kaohsiung Chang Gung Memorial Hospital and Chang Gung University College of Medicine, Kaohsiung 83301, Taiwan R.O.C
| | - Yi-Hsi Wang
- Division of Pulmonary and Critical Care Medicine, Kaohsiung Chang Gung Memorial Hospital and Chang Gung University College of Medicine, Kaohsiung 83301, Taiwan R.O.C
| | - Yu-Hsiu Chung
- Division of Pulmonary and Critical Care Medicine, Kaohsiung Chang Gung Memorial Hospital and Chang Gung University College of Medicine, Kaohsiung 83301, Taiwan R.O.C
| | - Tung-Ying Chao
- Division of Pulmonary and Critical Care Medicine, Kaohsiung Chang Gung Memorial Hospital and Chang Gung University College of Medicine, Kaohsiung 83301, Taiwan R.O.C
| | - Sum-Yee Leung
- Division of Pulmonary and Critical Care Medicine, Kaohsiung Chang Gung Memorial Hospital and Chang Gung University College of Medicine, Kaohsiung 83301, Taiwan R.O.C
| | - Mao-Chang Su
- Division of Pulmonary and Critical Care Medicine, Kaohsiung Chang Gung Memorial Hospital and Chang Gung University College of Medicine, Kaohsiung 83301, Taiwan R.O.C.,Department of Respiratory Care, Chang Gung University of Technology, Chiayi 61363, Taiwan R.O.C
| | - Meng-Chih Lin
- Division of Pulmonary and Critical Care Medicine, Kaohsiung Chang Gung Memorial Hospital and Chang Gung University College of Medicine, Kaohsiung 83301, Taiwan R.O.C
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Liu S, Fan L, Sun J, Lao X, Zheng H. Computational resources and tools for antimicrobial peptides. J Pept Sci 2016; 23:4-12. [PMID: 27966278 DOI: 10.1002/psc.2947] [Citation(s) in RCA: 38] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/27/2016] [Revised: 11/11/2016] [Accepted: 11/14/2016] [Indexed: 12/21/2022]
Abstract
Antimicrobial peptides (AMPs), as evolutionarily conserved components of innate immune system, protect against pathogens including bacteria, fungi, viruses, and parasites. In general, AMPs are relatively small peptides (<10 kDa) with cationic nature and amphipathic structure and have modes of action different from traditional antibiotics. Up to now, there are more than 19 000 AMPs that have been reported, including those isolated from nature sources or by synthesis. They have been considered to be promising substitutes of conventional antibiotics in the quest to address the increasing occurrence of antibiotic resistance. However, most AMPs have modest direct antimicrobial activity, and their mechanisms of action, as well as their structure-activity relationships, are still poorly understood. Computational strategies are invaluable assets to provide insight into the activity of AMPs and thus exploit their potential as a new generation of antimicrobials. This article reviews the advances of AMP databases and computational tools for the prediction and design of new active AMPs. Copyright © 2016 European Peptide Society and John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
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Affiliation(s)
- Shicai Liu
- School of Life Science and Technology, China Pharmaceutical University, Nanjing, 210009, China
| | - Linlin Fan
- School of Life Science and Technology, China Pharmaceutical University, Nanjing, 210009, China
| | - Jian Sun
- School of Life Science and Technology, China Pharmaceutical University, Nanjing, 210009, China
| | - Xingzhen Lao
- School of Life Science and Technology, China Pharmaceutical University, Nanjing, 210009, China
| | - Heng Zheng
- School of Life Science and Technology, China Pharmaceutical University, Nanjing, 210009, China
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Kwon AJ, Moon JY, Kim WK, Kim S, Hur J. Protection efficacy of the Brucella abortus ghost vaccine candidate lysed by the N-terminal 24-amino acid fragment (GI24) of the 36-amino acid peptide PMAP-36 (porcine myeloid antimicrobial peptide 36) in murine models. J Vet Med Sci 2016; 78:1541-1548. [PMID: 27349900 PMCID: PMC5095622 DOI: 10.1292/jvms.16-0036] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/22/2022] Open
Abstract
Brucella abortus cells were lysed by the N-terminal 24-amino acid fragment (GI24) of the 36-amino acid peptide PMAP-36 (porcine myeloid
antimicrobial peptide 36). Next, the protection efficacy of the lysed fragment as a vaccine candidate was evaluated. Group A mice were immunized with sterile
PBS, group B mice were intraperitoneally (ip) immunized with 3 × 108 colony-forming units (CFUs) of B. abortus strain RB51, group C
mice were immunized ip with 3 × 108 cells of the B. abortus vaccine candidate, and group D mice were orally immunized with 3 ×
109 cells of the B. abortus vaccine candidate. Brucella lipopolysaccharide (LPS)-specific serum IgG titers were
considerably higher in groups C and D than in group A. The levels of interleukin (IL)-4, IL-10, tumor necrosis factor alpha (TNF-α) and interferon gamma (IFN-γ)
were significantly higher in groups B–D than in group A. After an ip challenge with B. abortus 544, only group C mice showed a significant
level of protection as compared to group A. Overall, these results show that ip immunization with a vaccine candidate lysed by GI24 can effectively protect mice
from systemic infection with virulent B. abortus.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ae Jeong Kwon
- Veterinary Public Health, College of Veterinary Medicine and Bio-Safety Research Institute, Chonbuk National University, Iksan 54596, Republic of Korea
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Wronska MA, O'Connor IB, Tilbury MA, Srivastava A, Wall JG. Adding Functions to Biomaterial Surfaces through Protein Incorporation. Adv Mater 2016; 28:5485-5508. [PMID: 27164952 DOI: 10.1002/adma.201504310] [Citation(s) in RCA: 45] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/02/2015] [Revised: 03/16/2016] [Indexed: 06/05/2023]
Abstract
The concept of biomaterials has evolved from one of inert mechanical supports with a long-term, biologically inactive role in the body into complex matrices that exhibit selective cell binding, promote proliferation and matrix production, and may ultimately become replaced by newly generated tissues in vivo. Functionalization of material surfaces with biomolecules is critical to their ability to evade immunorecognition, interact productively with surrounding tissues and extracellular matrix, and avoid bacterial colonization. Antibody molecules and their derived fragments are commonly immobilized on materials to mediate coating with specific cell types in fields such as stent endothelialization and drug delivery. The incorporation of growth factors into biomaterials has found application in promoting and accelerating bone formation in osteogenerative and related applications. Peptides and extracellular matrix proteins can impart biomolecule- and cell-specificities to materials while antimicrobial peptides have found roles in preventing biofilm formation on devices and implants. In this progress report, we detail developments in the use of diverse proteins and peptides to modify the surfaces of hard biomaterials in vivo and in vitro. Chemical approaches to immobilizing active biomolecules are presented, as well as platform technologies for isolation or generation of natural or synthetic molecules suitable for biomaterial functionalization.
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Affiliation(s)
- Małgorzata A Wronska
- Microbiology and Center for Research in Medical Devices (CÚRAM), National University of Ireland, Galway, Ireland
| | - Iain B O'Connor
- Microbiology and Center for Research in Medical Devices (CÚRAM), National University of Ireland, Galway, Ireland
| | - Maura A Tilbury
- Microbiology and Center for Research in Medical Devices (CÚRAM), National University of Ireland, Galway, Ireland
| | - Akshay Srivastava
- Microbiology and Center for Research in Medical Devices (CÚRAM), National University of Ireland, Galway, Ireland
| | - J Gerard Wall
- Microbiology and Center for Research in Medical Devices (CÚRAM), National University of Ireland, Galway, Ireland
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Kong Q, Liang Z, Xiong J, Li H, Ren X. Overexpression of the Bivalent Antibacterial Peptide Genes inPichia pastorisDelays Sour Rot in Citrus Fruit and InducesGeotrichum citri-aurantiiCell Apoptosis. FOOD BIOTECHNOL 2016. [DOI: 10.1080/08905436.2016.1165695] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/25/2022]
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Wilmes M, Stockem M, Bierbaum G, Schlag M, Götz F, Tran DQ, Schaal JB, Ouellette AJ, Selsted ME, Sahl HG. Killing of staphylococci by θ-defensins involves membrane impairment and activation of autolytic enzymes. Antibiotics (Basel) 2016; 3:617-31. [PMID: 25632351 PMCID: PMC4306331 DOI: 10.3390/antibiotics3040617] [Citation(s) in RCA: 29] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/27/2022] Open
Abstract
θ-Defensins are cyclic antimicrobial peptides expressed in leukocytes of Old world monkeys. To get insight into their antibacterial mode of action, we studied the activity of RTDs (rhesus macaque θ-defensins) against staphylococci. We found that in contrast to other defensins, RTDs do not interfere with peptidoglycan biosynthesis, but rather induce bacterial lysis in staphylococci by interaction with the bacterial membrane and/or release of cell wall lytic enzymes. Potassium efflux experiments and membrane potential measurements revealed that the membrane impairment by RTDs strongly depends on the energization of the membrane. In addition, RTD treatment caused the release of Atl-derived cell wall lytic enzymes probably by interaction with membrane-bound lipoteichoic acid. Thus, the premature and uncontrolled activity of these enzymes contributes strongly to the overall killing by θ-defensins. Interestingly, a similar mode of action has been described for Pep5, an antimicrobial peptide of bacterial origin.
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Affiliation(s)
- Miriam Wilmes
- Institute of Medical Microbiology, Immunology and Parasitology, University of Bonn, 53105 Bonn, Germany; E-Mails: (M.S.); (G.B.); (H.-G.S.)
- Author to whom correspondence should be addressed; E-Mail: ; Tel.: +49-228-28711397
| | - Marina Stockem
- Institute of Medical Microbiology, Immunology and Parasitology, University of Bonn, 53105 Bonn, Germany; E-Mails: (M.S.); (G.B.); (H.-G.S.)
| | - Gabriele Bierbaum
- Institute of Medical Microbiology, Immunology and Parasitology, University of Bonn, 53105 Bonn, Germany; E-Mails: (M.S.); (G.B.); (H.-G.S.)
| | - Martin Schlag
- Interfaculty Institute of Microbiology and Infection Medicine, Microbial Genetics, University of Tübingen, 72076 Tübingen, Germany; E-Mails: (M.S.); (F.G.)
| | - Friedrich Götz
- Interfaculty Institute of Microbiology and Infection Medicine, Microbial Genetics, University of Tübingen, 72076 Tübingen, Germany; E-Mails: (M.S.); (F.G.)
| | - Dat Q. Tran
- Department of Pathology and Laboratory Medicine, USC Norris Cancer Center, Keck School of Medicine, University of Southern California, Los Angeles, CA 90089-9601, USA; E-Mails: (D.Q.T.); (J.B.S.); (A.J.O.); (M.E.S.)
| | - Justin B. Schaal
- Department of Pathology and Laboratory Medicine, USC Norris Cancer Center, Keck School of Medicine, University of Southern California, Los Angeles, CA 90089-9601, USA; E-Mails: (D.Q.T.); (J.B.S.); (A.J.O.); (M.E.S.)
| | - André J. Ouellette
- Department of Pathology and Laboratory Medicine, USC Norris Cancer Center, Keck School of Medicine, University of Southern California, Los Angeles, CA 90089-9601, USA; E-Mails: (D.Q.T.); (J.B.S.); (A.J.O.); (M.E.S.)
| | - Michael E. Selsted
- Department of Pathology and Laboratory Medicine, USC Norris Cancer Center, Keck School of Medicine, University of Southern California, Los Angeles, CA 90089-9601, USA; E-Mails: (D.Q.T.); (J.B.S.); (A.J.O.); (M.E.S.)
| | - Hans-Georg Sahl
- Institute of Medical Microbiology, Immunology and Parasitology, University of Bonn, 53105 Bonn, Germany; E-Mails: (M.S.); (G.B.); (H.-G.S.)
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Wagner S, Sommer R, Hinsberger S, Lu C, Hartmann RW, Empting M, Titz A. Novel Strategies for the Treatment of Pseudomonas aeruginosa Infections. J Med Chem 2016; 59:5929-69. [DOI: 10.1021/acs.jmedchem.5b01698] [Citation(s) in RCA: 176] [Impact Index Per Article: 22.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/15/2022]
Affiliation(s)
- Stefanie Wagner
- Chemical
Biology of Carbohydrates, Helmholtz Institute for Pharmaceutical Research Saarland (HIPS), D-66123 Saarbrücken, Germany
- Deutsches Zentrum für Infektionsforschung (DZIF), 30625 Standort Hannover-Braunschweig, Germany
| | - Roman Sommer
- Chemical
Biology of Carbohydrates, Helmholtz Institute for Pharmaceutical Research Saarland (HIPS), D-66123 Saarbrücken, Germany
- Deutsches Zentrum für Infektionsforschung (DZIF), 30625 Standort Hannover-Braunschweig, Germany
| | - Stefan Hinsberger
- Deutsches Zentrum für Infektionsforschung (DZIF), 30625 Standort Hannover-Braunschweig, Germany
- Drug
Design and Optimization, Helmholtz Institute for Pharmaceutical Research Saarland (HIPS), D-66123 Saarbrücken, Germany
| | - Cenbin Lu
- Deutsches Zentrum für Infektionsforschung (DZIF), 30625 Standort Hannover-Braunschweig, Germany
- Drug
Design and Optimization, Helmholtz Institute for Pharmaceutical Research Saarland (HIPS), D-66123 Saarbrücken, Germany
| | - Rolf W. Hartmann
- Deutsches Zentrum für Infektionsforschung (DZIF), 30625 Standort Hannover-Braunschweig, Germany
- Drug
Design and Optimization, Helmholtz Institute for Pharmaceutical Research Saarland (HIPS), D-66123 Saarbrücken, Germany
| | - Martin Empting
- Deutsches Zentrum für Infektionsforschung (DZIF), 30625 Standort Hannover-Braunschweig, Germany
- Drug
Design and Optimization, Helmholtz Institute for Pharmaceutical Research Saarland (HIPS), D-66123 Saarbrücken, Germany
| | - Alexander Titz
- Chemical
Biology of Carbohydrates, Helmholtz Institute for Pharmaceutical Research Saarland (HIPS), D-66123 Saarbrücken, Germany
- Deutsches Zentrum für Infektionsforschung (DZIF), 30625 Standort Hannover-Braunschweig, Germany
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Batoni G, Casu M, Giuliani A, Luca V, Maisetta G, Mangoni ML, Manzo G, Pintus M, Pirri G, Rinaldi AC, Scorciapino MA, Serra I, Ulrich AS, Wadhwani P. Rational modification of a dendrimeric peptide with antimicrobial activity: consequences on membrane-binding and biological properties. Amino Acids 2015; 48:887-900. [PMID: 26614437 DOI: 10.1007/s00726-015-2136-5] [Citation(s) in RCA: 26] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/10/2015] [Accepted: 11/08/2015] [Indexed: 01/05/2023]
Abstract
Peptide-based antibiotics might help containing the rising tide of antimicrobial resistance. We developed SB056, a semi-synthetic peptide with a dimeric dendrimer scaffold, active against both Gram-negative and Gram-positive bacteria. Being the mechanism of SB056 attributed to disruption of bacterial membranes, we enhanced the amphiphilic profile of the original, empirically derived sequence [WKKIRVRLSA-NH2] by interchanging the first two residues [KWKIRVRLSA-NH2], and explored the effects of this modification on the interaction of peptide, both in linear and dimeric forms, with model membranes and on antimicrobial activity. Results obtained against Escherichia coli and Staphylococcus aureus planktonic strains, with or without salts at physiological concentrations, confirmed the added value of dendrimeric structure over the linear one, especially at physiological ionic strength, and the impact of the higher amphipathicity obtained through sequence modification on enhancing peptide performances. SB056 peptides also displayed intriguing antibiofilm properties. Staphylococcus epidermidis was the most susceptible strain in sessile form, notably to optimized linear analog lin-SB056-1 and the wild-type dendrimer den-SB056. Membrane affinity of all peptides increased with the percentage of negatively charged lipids and was less influenced by the presence of salt in the case of dendrimeric peptides. The analog lin-SB056-1 displayed the highest overall affinity, even for zwitterionic PC bilayers. Thus, in addition to electrostatics, distribution of charged/polar and hydrophobic residues along the sequence might have a significant role in driving peptide-lipid interaction. Supporting this view, dendrimeric analog den-SB056-1 retained greater membrane affinity in the presence of salt than den-SB056, despite the fact that they bear exactly the same net positive charge.
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Affiliation(s)
- Giovanna Batoni
- Department of Translational Research and New Technologies in Medicine and Surgery, University of Pisa, Pisa, Italy
| | - Mariano Casu
- Department of Chemical and Geological Sciences, University of Cagliari, Cittadella Universitaria, Monserrato (CA), Italy
| | - Andrea Giuliani
- Research and Development Unit, Spider Biotech S.r.l., Colleretto Giacosa (TO), Italy
| | - Vincenzo Luca
- Dipartimento di Scienze Biochimiche, "A. Rossi Fanelli", Istituto Pasteur-Fondazione Cenci Bolognetti, Sapienza Università di Roma, Rome, Italy
| | - Giuseppantonio Maisetta
- Department of Translational Research and New Technologies in Medicine and Surgery, University of Pisa, Pisa, Italy
| | - Maria Luisa Mangoni
- Dipartimento di Scienze Biochimiche, "A. Rossi Fanelli", Istituto Pasteur-Fondazione Cenci Bolognetti, Sapienza Università di Roma, Rome, Italy
| | - Giorgia Manzo
- Department of Biomedical Sciences, University of Cagliari, Cittadella Universitaria, Monserrato (CA), Italy
| | - Manuela Pintus
- Department of Biomedical Sciences, University of Cagliari, Cittadella Universitaria, Monserrato (CA), Italy
| | - Giovanna Pirri
- Research and Development Unit, Spider Biotech S.r.l., Colleretto Giacosa (TO), Italy
| | - Andrea C Rinaldi
- Department of Biomedical Sciences, University of Cagliari, Cittadella Universitaria, Monserrato (CA), Italy.
| | - Mariano A Scorciapino
- Department of Biomedical Sciences, University of Cagliari, Cittadella Universitaria, Monserrato (CA), Italy
| | - Ilaria Serra
- Department of Biomedical Sciences, University of Cagliari, Cittadella Universitaria, Monserrato (CA), Italy
| | - Anne S Ulrich
- Institute of Biological Interfaces (IBG-2), Karlsruhe Institute of Technology (KIT), Karlsruhe, Germany
- Institute of Organic Chemistry, Karlsruhe Institute of Technology (KIT), Karlsruhe, Germany
| | - Parvesh Wadhwani
- Institute of Biological Interfaces (IBG-2), Karlsruhe Institute of Technology (KIT), Karlsruhe, Germany
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Schmitt P, Rosa RD, Destoumieux-Garzón D. An intimate link between antimicrobial peptide sequence diversity and binding to essential components of bacterial membranes. Biochim Biophys Acta 2015; 1858:958-70. [PMID: 26498397 DOI: 10.1016/j.bbamem.2015.10.011] [Citation(s) in RCA: 68] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/29/2015] [Revised: 10/14/2015] [Accepted: 10/15/2015] [Indexed: 12/22/2022]
Abstract
Antimicrobial peptides and proteins (AMPs) are widespread in the living kingdom. They are key effectors of defense reactions and mediators of competitions between organisms. They are often cationic and amphiphilic, which favors their interactions with the anionic membranes of microorganisms. Several AMP families do not directly alter membrane integrity but rather target conserved components of the bacterial membranes in a process that provides them with potent and specific antimicrobial activities. Thus, lipopolysaccharides (LPS), lipoteichoic acids (LTA) and the peptidoglycan precursor Lipid II are targeted by a broad series of AMPs. Studying the functional diversity of immune effectors tells us about the essential residues involved in AMP mechanism of action. Marine invertebrates have been found to produce a remarkable diversity of AMPs. Molluscan defensins and crustacean anti-LPS factors (ALF) are diverse in terms of amino acid sequence and show contrasted phenotypes in terms of antimicrobial activity. Their activity is directed essentially against Gram-positive or Gram-negative bacteria due to their specific interactions with Lipid II or Lipid A, respectively. Through those interesting examples, we discuss here how sequence diversity generated throughout evolution informs us on residues required for essential molecular interaction at the bacterial membranes and subsequent antibacterial activity. Through the analysis of molecular variants having lost antibacterial activity or shaped novel functions, we also discuss the molecular bases of functional divergence in AMPs. This article is part of a Special Issue entitled: Antimicrobial peptides edited by Karl Lohner and Kai Hilpert.
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Affiliation(s)
- Paulina Schmitt
- Laboratorio de Genética e Inmunología Molecular, Instituto de Biología, Pontificia Universidad Católica de Valparaíso, Avenida Universidad 330, 2373223 Valparaíso, Chile
| | - Rafael D Rosa
- Laboratory of Immunology Applied to Aquaculture, Department of Cell Biology, Embryology and Genetics, Federal University of Santa Catarina, 88040-900 Florianópolis, SC, Brazil
| | - Delphine Destoumieux-Garzón
- CNRS, Ifremer, UPVD, Université de Montpellier. Interactions Hôtes-Pathogènes-Environnements (IHPE), UMR5244, Place Eugène Bataillon, 34090 Montpellier cedex, France.
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40
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Abstract
Nearly 100 years ago, antimicrobial peptides (AMPs) were identified as an important part of innate immunity. They exist in species from bacteria to mammals and can be isolated in body fluids and on surfaces constitutively or induced by inflammation. Defensins have anti-bacterial effects against Gram-positive and Gram-negative bacteria as well as anti-viral and anti-yeast effects. Human neutrophil peptides (HNP) 1-3 and human beta-defensins (HBDs) 1-3 are some of the most important defensins in humans. Recent studies have demonstrated higher levels of HNP 1-3 and HBD-2 in sepsis. The bactericidal/permeability-increasing protein (BPI) attenuates local inflammatory response and decreases systemic toxicity of endotoxins. Moreover, BPI might reflect the severity of organ dysfunction in sepsis. Elevated plasma lactoferrin is detected in patients with organ failure. HNP 1-3, lactoferrin, BPI, and heparin-binding protein are increased in sepsis. Human lactoferrin peptide 1-11 (hLF 1-11) possesses antimicrobial activity and modulates inflammation. The recombinant form of lactoferrin [talactoferrin alpha (TLF)] has been shown to decrease mortality in critically ill patients. A phase II/III study with TLF in sepsis did not confirm this result. The growing number of multiresistant bacteria is an ongoing problem in sepsis therapy. Furthermore, antibiotics are known to promote the liberation of pro-inflammatory cell components and thus augment the severity of sepsis. Compared to antibiotics, AMPs kill bacteria but also neutralize pathogenic factors such as lipopolysaccharide. The obstacle to applying naturally occurring AMPs is their high nephro- and neurotoxicity. Therefore, the challenge is to develop peptides to treat septic patients effectively without causing harm. This overview focuses on natural and synthetic AMPs in human and experimental sepsis and their potential to provide significant improvements in the treatment of critically ill with severe infections.
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Affiliation(s)
- Lukas Martin
- Department of Intensive Care and Intermediate Care, University Hospital RWTH Aachen , Aachen , Germany
| | - Anne van Meegern
- Department of Intensive Care and Intermediate Care, University Hospital RWTH Aachen , Aachen , Germany
| | - Sabine Doemming
- Department of Intensive Care and Intermediate Care, University Hospital RWTH Aachen , Aachen , Germany
| | - Tobias Schuerholz
- Department of Intensive Care and Intermediate Care, University Hospital RWTH Aachen , Aachen , Germany
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Abstract
Designing delivery agents for therapeutics is an ongoing challenge. As treatments and desired cargoes become more complex, the need for improved delivery vehicles becomes critical. Excellent delivery vehicles must ensure the stability of the cargo, maintain the cargo's solubility, and promote efficient delivery and release. In order to address these issues, many research groups have looked to nature for design inspiration. Proteins, such as HIV-1 trans-activator of transcription (TAT) and Antennapedia homeodomain protein, are capable of crossing cellular membranes. However, due to the complexities of their structures, they are synthetically challenging to reproduce in the laboratory setting. Being able to incorporate the key features of these proteins that enable cell entry into simpler scaffolds opens up a wide range of opportunities for the development of new delivery reagents with improved performance. This review charts the development of protein mimics based on cell-penetrating peptides (CPPs) and how structure-activity relationships (SARs) with these molecules and their protein counterparts ultimately led to the use of polymeric scaffolds. These scaffolds deviate from the normal peptide backbone, allowing for simpler, synthetic procedures to make carriers and tune chemical compositions for application specific needs. Successful design of polymeric protein mimics would allow researchers to further understand the key features in proteins and peptides necessary for efficient delivery and to design the next generation of more efficient delivery reagents.
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Affiliation(s)
- Brittany M deRonde
- Department of Polymer Science and Engineering, University of Massachusetts Amherst, Amherst, MA, 01003
| | - Gregory N Tew
- Department of Polymer Science and Engineering, University of Massachusetts Amherst, Amherst, MA, 01003
- Department of Veterinary and Animal Sciences, University of Massachusetts Amherst, Amherst, MA, 01003
- Molecular and Cellular Biology Program, University of Massachusetts Amherst, Amherst, MA, 01003
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Künzler M. Hitting the sweet spot-glycans as targets of fungal defense effector proteins. Molecules 2015; 20:8144-67. [PMID: 25955890 DOI: 10.3390/molecules20058144] [Citation(s) in RCA: 30] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/02/2015] [Revised: 04/29/2015] [Accepted: 04/30/2015] [Indexed: 11/16/2022] Open
Abstract
Organisms which rely solely on innate defense systems must combat a large number of antagonists with a comparably low number of defense effector molecules. As one solution of this problem, these organisms have evolved effector molecules targeting epitopes that are conserved between different antagonists of a specific taxon or, if possible, even of different taxa. In order to restrict the activity of the defense effector molecules to physiologically relevant taxa, these target epitopes should, on the other hand, be taxon-specific and easily accessible. Glycans fulfill all these requirements and are therefore a preferred target of defense effector molecules, in particular defense proteins. Here, we review this defense strategy using the example of the defense system of multicellular (filamentous) fungi against microbial competitors and animal predators.
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Phoenix DA, Harris F, Mura M, Dennison SR. The increasing role of phosphatidylethanolamine as a lipid receptor in the action of host defence peptides. Prog Lipid Res 2015; 59:26-37. [PMID: 25936689 DOI: 10.1016/j.plipres.2015.02.003] [Citation(s) in RCA: 39] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/27/2014] [Revised: 02/26/2015] [Accepted: 02/27/2015] [Indexed: 01/04/2023]
Abstract
Host defence peptides (HDPs) are antimicrobial agents produced by organisms across the prokaryotic and eukaryotic kingdoms. Many prokaryotes produce HDPs, which utilise lipid and protein receptors in the membranes of bacterial competitors to facilitate their antibacterial action and thereby survive in their niche environment. As a major example, it is well established that cinnamycin and duramycins from Streptomyces have a high affinity for phosphatidylethanolamine (PE) and exhibit activity against other Gram-positive organisms, such as Bacillus. In contrast, although eukaryotic HDPs utilise membrane interactive mechanisms to facilitate their antimicrobial activity, the prevailing view has long been that these mechanisms do not involve membrane receptors. However, this view has been recently challenged by reports that a number of eukaryotic HDPs such as plant cyclotides also use PE as a receptor to promote their antimicrobial activities. Here, we review current understanding of the mechanisms that underpin the use of PE as a receptor in the antimicrobial and other biological actions of HDPs and describe medical and biotechnical uses of these peptides, which range from tumour imaging and detection to inclusion in topical microbicidal gels to prevent the sexual transmission of HIV.
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Affiliation(s)
- David A Phoenix
- School of Applied Science, London South Bank University, 103 Borough Road, London SE1 0AA, UK.
| | - Frederick Harris
- School of Applied Science, London South Bank University, 103 Borough Road, London SE1 0AA, UK; School of Forensic and Investigative Science, University of Central Lancashire, Preston PR1 2HE, UK
| | - Manuela Mura
- School of Mathematics and Physics, College of Science, University of Lincoln, Brayford Pool, Lincoln, Lincolnshire LN6 7TS, UK
| | - Sarah R Dennison
- School of Applied Science, London South Bank University, 103 Borough Road, London SE1 0AA, UK; School of Pharmacy and Biomedical Sciences, University of Central Lancashire, Preston PR1 2HE, UK
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Ciobanasu C, Rzeszutek A, Kubitscheck U, Willumeit R. NKCS, a Mutant of the NK-2 Peptide, Causes Severe Distortions and Perforations in Bacterial, But Not Human Model Lipid Membranes. Molecules 2015; 20:6941-58. [PMID: 25913932 DOI: 10.3390/molecules20046941] [Citation(s) in RCA: 12] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/30/2015] [Revised: 04/09/2015] [Accepted: 04/10/2015] [Indexed: 01/05/2023] Open
Abstract
NKCS is an improved mutant of the bioactive peptide NK-2, which shows strong activity against Escherichia coli and low toxicity towards human cells. The different activity demonstrates the relevance of the physico-chemical nature of the target membrane for the biological effect of this peptide. We studied the effect of this potent antimicrobial peptide on model membranes by activity studies, differential scanning calorimetry, single molecule tracking and tracer efflux experiments. We found that NKCS severely distorted, penetrated and perforated model lipid membranes that resembled bacterial membranes, but not those that were similar to human cell membranes. The interactions of NKCS with phosphatidylethanolamine, which is abundant in bacterial membranes, were especially strong and are probably responsible for its antimicrobial activity.
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Chileveru HR, Lim SA, Chairatana P, Wommack AJ, Chiang IL, Nolan EM. Visualizing attack of Escherichia coli by the antimicrobial peptide human defensin 5. Biochemistry 2015; 54:1767-77. [PMID: 25664683 DOI: 10.1021/bi501483q] [Citation(s) in RCA: 72] [Impact Index Per Article: 8.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/30/2022]
Abstract
Human α-defensin 5 (HD5) is a 32-residue cysteine-rich host-defense peptide that exhibits broad-spectrum antimicrobial activity and contributes to innate immunity in the human gut and other organ systems. Despite many years of investigation, its antimicrobial mechanism of action remains unclear. In this work, we report that HD5ox, the oxidized form of this peptide that exhibits three regiospecific disulfide bonds, causes distinct morphological changes to Escherichia coli and other Gram-negative microbes. These morphologies include bleb formation, cellular elongation, and clumping. The blebs are up to ∼1 μm wide and typically form at the site of cell division or cell poles. Studies with E. coli expressing cytoplasmic GFP reveal that HD5ox treatment causes GFP emission to localize in the bleb. To probe the cellular uptake of HD5ox and subsequent localization, we describe the design and characterization of a fluorophore-HD5 conjugate family. By employing these peptides, we demonstrate that fluorophore-HD5ox conjugates harboring the rhodamine and coumarin fluorophores enter the E. coli cytoplasm. On the basis of the fluorescence profiles, each of these fluorophore-HD5ox conjugates localizes to the site of cell division and cell poles. These studies support the notion that HD5ox, at least in part, exerts its antibacterial activity against E. coli and other Gram-negative microbes in the cytoplasm.
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Affiliation(s)
- Haritha R Chileveru
- Department of Chemistry, Massachusetts Institute of Technology , Cambridge, Massachusetts 02139, United States
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Solecki O, Mosbah A, Baudy Floc'h M, Felden B. Converting a Staphylococcus aureus toxin into effective cyclic pseudopeptide antibiotics. ACTA ACUST UNITED AC 2015; 22:329-35. [PMID: 25728268 DOI: 10.1016/j.chembiol.2014.12.016] [Citation(s) in RCA: 19] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/18/2014] [Revised: 12/20/2014] [Accepted: 12/29/2014] [Indexed: 12/21/2022]
Abstract
Staphylococcus aureus produces peptide toxins that it uses to respond to environmental cues. We previously characterized PepA1, a peptide toxin from S. aureus, that induces lytic cell death of both bacterial and host cells. That led us to suggest that PepA1 has an antibacterial activity. Here, we demonstrate that exogenously provided PepA1 has activity against both Gram-positive and Gram-negative bacteria. We also see that PepA1 is significantly hemolytic, thus limiting its use as an antibacterial agent. To overcome these limitations, we converted PepA1 into nonhemolytic derivatives. Our most promising derivative is a cyclic heptapseudopeptide with inconsequential toxicity to human cells, enhanced stability in human sera, and sharp antibacterial activity. Mechanistically, linear and helical PepA1 derivatives form pores at the bacterial and erythrocyte surfaces, while the cyclic peptide induces bacterial envelope reorganization, with insignificant action on the erythrocytes. Our work demonstrates that bacterial toxins might be an attractive starting point for antibacterial drug development.
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Affiliation(s)
- Olivia Solecki
- U835 Inserm, Pharmaceutical Biochemistry, 2 Avenue du Professeur Léon Bernard, Rennes University, 35043 Rennes, France
| | - Amor Mosbah
- Institut des Sciences Chimiques de Rennes, UMR 6226 CNRS-Rennes University, Beaulieu, 35042 Rennes, France
| | - Michèle Baudy Floc'h
- Institut des Sciences Chimiques de Rennes, UMR 6226 CNRS-Rennes University, Beaulieu, 35042 Rennes, France.
| | - Brice Felden
- U835 Inserm, Pharmaceutical Biochemistry, 2 Avenue du Professeur Léon Bernard, Rennes University, 35043 Rennes, France.
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Wommack AJ, Ziarek JJ, Tomaras J, Chileveru HR, Zhang Y, Wagner G, Nolan EM. Discovery and characterization of a disulfide-locked C(2)-symmetric defensin peptide. J Am Chem Soc 2014; 136:13494-7. [PMID: 25181039 PMCID: PMC4183617 DOI: 10.1021/ja505957w] [Citation(s) in RCA: 43] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/26/2022]
Abstract
We report the discovery of HD5-CD, an unprecedented C2-symmetric β-barrel-like covalent dimer of the cysteine-rich host-defense peptide human defensin 5 (HD5). Dimerization results from intermonomer disulfide exchange between the canonical α-defensin Cys(II)-Cys(IV) (Cys(5)-Cys(20)) bonds located at the hydrophobic interface. This disulfide-locked dimeric assembly provides a new element of structural diversity for cysteine-rich peptides as well as increased protease resistance, broad-spectrum antimicrobial activity, and enhanced potency against the opportunistic human pathogen Acinetobacter baumannii.
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Affiliation(s)
- Andrew J Wommack
- Department of Chemistry, Massachusetts Institute of Technology , Cambridge, Massachusetts 02139, United States
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