scholarly journals Mitigate the cytokine storm due to the severe COVID-19: A computational investigation of possible allosteric inhibitory actions on IL-6R and IL-1R using selected phytochemicals

2020 ◽  
Vol 11 (4) ◽  
pp. 351-363
Author(s):  
Harindu Rajapaksha ◽  
Bingun Tharusha Perera ◽  
Jeewani Meepage ◽  
Ruwan Tharanga Perera ◽  
Chithramala Dissanayake

The novel corona virus 2019 (COVID 19) is growing at an increasing rate with high mortality. Meanwhile, the cytokine storm is the most dangerous and potentially life-threatening event related to COVID 19. Phyto-compounds found in existing Ayurveda drugs have the ability to inhibit the Interleukin 6 (IL-6R) and Interleukin 1 (IL-1R) receptors. IL-6R and IL-1R receptors involve in cytokine storm and recognition of phytochemicals with proven safety profiles could open a pathway to the development of the most effective drugs against cytokine storm. In this study, we intend to perform an in silico investigation of effective phyto compounds, which can be isolated from selected medicinal herbs to avoid cytokine storm, inhibiting the IL-6 and IL-1 receptor binding process. An extensive literature survey followed by virtual screening was carried out to identify phytochemicals with potential anti-hyper-inflammatory action. Flexible docking was conducted for validated models of IL-1R and IL-6R-α with the most promising phytochemicals at possible allosteric sites using AutoDock Vina. Molecular dynamics (MD) studies were conducted for selected protein-ligand complexes using LARMD server and conformational changes were evaluated. According to the results, taepeenin J had Gibbs energy (ΔG) of -10.85 kcal/mol towards IL-1R but had limited oral bioavailability. MD analysis revealed that taepeenin J can cause significant conformational movements in IL-1R. Nortaepeenin B showed a ΔG of -8.5 kcal/mol towards IL-6R-α with an excellent oral bioavailability. MD analysis predicted that it can cause significant conformational movements in IL-6R-α. Hence, the evaluated phytochemicals are potential candidates for further in vitro studies for the development of medicine against cytokine storm on behalf of SARS-COV-2 infected patients.

2014 ◽  
Vol 42 (6) ◽  
pp. 1773-1779 ◽  
Author(s):  
Lubna Freihat ◽  
Victor Muleya ◽  
David T. Manallack ◽  
Janet I. Wheeler ◽  
Helen R. Irving

Over 30 receptor-like kinases contain a guanylate cyclase (GC) catalytic centre embedded within the C-terminal region of their kinase domain in the model plant Arabidopsis. A number of the kinase GCs contain both functional kinase and GC activity in vitro and the natural ligands of these receptors stimulate increases in cGMP within isolated protoplasts. The GC activity could be described as a minor or moonlighting activity. We have also identified mammalian proteins that contain the novel GC centre embedded within kinase domains. One example is the interleukin 1 receptor-associated kinase 3 (IRAK3). We compare the GC functionality of the mammalian protein IRAK3 with the cytoplasmic domain of the plant prototype molecule, the phytosulfokine receptor 1 (PSKR1). We have developed homology models of these molecules and have undertaken in vitro experiments to compare their functionality and structural features. Recombinant IRAK3 produces cGMP at levels comparable to those produced by PSKR1, suggesting that IRAK3 contains GC activity. Our findings raise the possibility that kinase-GCs may switch between downstream kinase-mediated or cGMP-mediated signalling cascades to elicit desired outputs to particular stimuli. The challenge now lies in understanding the interaction between the GC and kinase domains and how these molecules utilize their dual functionality within cells.


Hypertension ◽  
2020 ◽  
Vol 76 (Suppl_1) ◽  
Author(s):  
Bertram Pitt ◽  
Deepak L Bhatt ◽  
Karen Morris ◽  
J. David Becherer ◽  
William Hoekstra ◽  
...  

Aldosterone is an important mineralocorticoid responsible for fluid and electrolyte homeostasis produced by aldosterone synthase (CYP11B2). An aldosterone synthase inhibitor (ASI) may be a therapeutic option for primary aldosteronism-related conditions such as resistant hypertension. An ASI with sufficient selectivity for CYP11B2 versus the similar cortisol-producing enzyme CYP11B1 has remained elusive. PB6440 is a novel ASI that is potent and highly selective for CYP11B2. In vitro studies demonstrated 200-300-fold selectivity of PB6440 for human CYP11B2 compared to human CYP11B1. In single and multiple dose cynomolgus monkey studies of orally administered PB6440, dose-and concentration-dependent reduction of plasma aldosterone after ACTH challenge was observed with >90% reduction at higher doses. Consistent with its high selectivity, PB6440 had little effect on the CYP11B1 cortisol pathway. Plasma levels of cortisol, 11-deoxycortisol, and deoxycorticosterone, remained unchanged even at high doses of PB6440. Systolic and diastolic blood pressure was reduced in a dose-dependent manner. Circulating half-life of PB6440 was approximately 17 hours with high oral bioavailability. In summary, PB6440 is a highly selective ASI that demonstrated sustained aldosterone suppression for 14 days with no effect on the CYP11B1 pathway in non-human primates. In single and multiple dose studies, PB6440 appeared well tolerated, demonstrating good oral bioavailability, and a PK profile supportive of once daily dosing. These results suggest that PB6440 may be useful in humans as a novel therapeutic for treating hypertension or other conditions caused by excess aldosterone.


2020 ◽  
Author(s):  
NASIR MUSTAFA

Abstract Background: Modern researches have focused the attention towards the potential advantage of chloroquine, a broadly used antimalarial drug, in the treatment of patients infected by the novel appeared coronavirus (SARS-CoV-2). Chloroquine/hydroxychloroquine has been frequently used in treating SARS-CoV-2 infection. Which is useful in controlling the cytokine storm that occurs late-phase in critically ill SARS-CoV-2 infected patients. The scientific community should consider this information in light of previous experiments with Chloroquine/hydroxychloroquine in the field of antiviral research. Methods: In the view of current situation efforts of international health professionals have since focused on rapid diagnosis and isolation of patients as well as the search for therapies able to counter the most severe effects of the disease. It is mandatory to investigate the possible effect of chloroquine/hydroxychloroquine against SARS-CoV-2. Since this molecule was previously described as a potent inhibitor of most coronaviruses, including SARS-CoV-1. Preliminary trials of chloroquine repurposing in the treatment of COVID-19 in China have been encouraging, leading to several new trials. Here we discuss the possible mechanisms of chloroquine interference with the SARS-CoV-2 replication cycle.Results: Chloroquine has been shown to be capable of inhibiting the in vitro replication of several coronaviruses. Recent publications support the hypothesis that chloroquine/hydroxychloroquine can improve the clinical outcome of patients infected by SARS-CoV-2.


2021 ◽  
Vol 20 (1) ◽  
Author(s):  
Yizhe Chen ◽  
Fangyi Zhu ◽  
Jared Hammill ◽  
Gloria Holbrook ◽  
Lei Yang ◽  
...  

Abstract Background The ongoing global malaria eradication campaign requires development of potent, safe, and cost-effective drugs lacking cross-resistance with existing chemotherapies. One critical step in drug development is selecting a suitable clinical candidate from late leads. The process used to select the clinical candidate SJ733 from two potent dihydroisoquinolone (DHIQ) late leads, SJ733 and SJ311, based on their physicochemical, pharmacokinetic (PK), and toxicity profiles is described. Methods The compounds were tested to define their physicochemical properties including kinetic and thermodynamic solubility, partition coefficient, permeability, ionization constant, and binding to plasma proteins. Metabolic stability was assessed in both microsomes and hepatocytes derived from mice, rats, dogs, and humans. Cytochrome P450 inhibition was assessed using recombinant human cytochrome enzymes. The pharmacokinetic profiles of single intravenous or oral doses were investigated in mice, rats, and dogs. Results Although both compounds displayed similar physicochemical properties, SJ733 was more permeable but metabolically less stable than SJ311 in vitro. Single dose PK studies of SJ733 in mice, rats, and dogs demonstrated appreciable oral bioavailability (60–100%), whereas SJ311 had lower oral bioavailability (mice 23%, rats 40%) and higher renal clearance (10–30 fold higher than SJ733 in rats and dogs), suggesting less favorable exposure in humans. SJ311 also displayed a narrower range of dose-proportional exposure, with plasma exposure flattening at doses above 200 mg/kg. Conclusion SJ733 was chosen as the candidate based on a more favorable dose proportionality of exposure and stronger expectation of the ability to justify a strong therapeutic index to regulators.


2020 ◽  
Author(s):  
Yizhe Chen ◽  
Fangyi Zhu ◽  
Jared Hammill ◽  
Gloria Holbrook ◽  
Lei Yang ◽  
...  

Abstract Background The ongoing global malaria eradication campaign requires development of potent, safe, and cost-effective drugs lacking cross-resistance with existing chemotherapies. One critical step in drug development is selecting a suitable clinical candidate from late leads. Herein we present the process used to select the clinical candidate SJ733 from two potent dihydroisoquinolone (DHIQ) late leads, SJ733 and SJ311, based on their physicochemical, pharmacokinetic (PK), and toxicity profiles. Methods The compounds were tested to define their physicochemical properties including kinetic and thermodynamic solubility, partition coefficient, permeability, ionization constant, and binding to plasma and microsomal proteins. Metabolic stability was assessed in both microsomes and hepatocytes derived from mice, rats, dogs, and humans. Cytochrome p450 inhibition were assessed using recombinant human cytochrome enzymes. The pharmacokinetic profiles of single intravenous or oral doses were investigated in mice, rats, and dogs. Results Both compounds displayed similar physicochemical properties, but SJ733 was more permeable and metabolically less stable than SJ311 in vitro. Single dose PK studies of SJ733 in mice, rats, and dogs demonstrated appreciable oral bioavailability (60–100%), whereas SJ311 had lower oral bioavailability (mice 23%, rats 40%) and higher renal clearance (10–30 fold in rats and dogs), suggesting less favorable exposure in humans. SJ311 also displayed a narrower range of dose-proportional exposure, with plasma exposure flattening at doses above 200 mg/kg. Conclusion SJ733 was chosen as the candidate based on a more favorable dose proportionality of exposure and stronger expectation of the ability to justify a strong therapeutic index to regulators.


2021 ◽  
Author(s):  
Yizhe Chen ◽  
Fangyi Zhu ◽  
Jared Hammill ◽  
Gloria Holbrook ◽  
Lei Yang ◽  
...  

Abstract Background: The ongoing global malaria eradication campaign requires development of potent, safe, and cost-effective drugs lacking cross-resistance with existing chemotherapies. One critical step in drug development is selecting a suitable clinical candidate from late leads. Herein we present the process used to select the clinical candidate SJ733 from two potent dihydroisoquinolone (DHIQ) late leads, SJ733 and SJ311, based on their physicochemical, pharmacokinetic (PK), and toxicity profiles. Methods: The compounds were tested to define their physicochemical properties including kinetic and thermodynamic solubility, partition coefficient, permeability, ionization constant, and binding to plasma proteins. Metabolic stability was assessed in both microsomes and hepatocytes derived from mice, rats, dogs, and humans. Cytochrome P450 inhibition was assessed using recombinant human cytochrome enzymes. The pharmacokinetic profiles of single intravenous or oral doses were investigated in mice, rats, and dogs. Results: Although both compounds displayed similar physicochemical properties, SJ733 was more permeable but metabolically less stable than SJ311 in vitro. Single dose PK studies of SJ733 in mice, rats, and dogs demonstrated appreciable oral bioavailability (60-100%), whereas SJ311 had lower oral bioavailability (mice 23%, rats 40%) and higher renal clearance (10-30 fold higher than SJ733 in rats and dogs), suggesting less favorable exposure in humans. SJ311 also displayed a narrower range of dose-proportional exposure, with plasma exposure flattening at doses above 200 mg/kg. Conclusion: SJ733 was chosen as the candidate based on a more favorable dose proportionality of exposure and stronger expectation of the ability to justify a strong therapeutic index to regulators.


2016 ◽  
Vol 2 (8) ◽  
pp. e1501929 ◽  
Author(s):  
Hyunwook Lee ◽  
Kristin L. Shingler ◽  
Lindsey J. Organtini ◽  
Robert E. Ashley ◽  
Alexander M. Makhov ◽  
...  

Many nonenveloped viruses engage host receptors that initiate capsid conformational changes necessary for genome release. Structural studies on the mechanisms of picornavirus entry have relied on in vitro approaches of virus incubated at high temperatures or with excess receptor molecules to trigger the entry intermediate or A-particle. We have induced the coxsackievirus B3 entry intermediate by triggering the virus with full-length receptors embedded in lipid bilayer nanodiscs. These asymmetrically formed A-particles were reconstructed using cryo-electron microscopy and a direct electron detector. These first high-resolution structures of a picornavirus entry intermediate captured at a membrane with and without imposing icosahedral symmetry (3.9 and 7.8 Å, respectively) revealed a novel A-particle that is markedly different from the classical A-particles. The asymmetric receptor binding triggers minimal global capsid expansion but marked local conformational changes at the site of receptor interaction. In addition, viral proteins extrude from the capsid only at the site of extensive protein remodeling adjacent to the nanodisc. Thus, the binding of the receptor triggers formation of a unique site in preparation for genome release.


2019 ◽  
Vol 476 (21) ◽  
pp. 3141-3159 ◽  
Author(s):  
Meiru Si ◽  
Can Chen ◽  
Zengfan Wei ◽  
Zhijin Gong ◽  
GuiZhi Li ◽  
...  

Abstract MarR (multiple antibiotic resistance regulator) proteins are a family of transcriptional regulators that is prevalent in Corynebacterium glutamicum. Understanding the physiological and biochemical function of MarR homologs in C. glutamicum has focused on cysteine oxidation-based redox-sensing and substrate metabolism-involving regulators. In this study, we characterized the stress-related ligand-binding functions of the C. glutamicum MarR-type regulator CarR (C. glutamicum antibiotic-responding regulator). We demonstrate that CarR negatively regulates the expression of the carR (ncgl2886)–uspA (ncgl2887) operon and the adjacent, oppositely oriented gene ncgl2885, encoding the hypothetical deacylase DecE. We also show that CarR directly activates transcription of the ncgl2882–ncgl2884 operon, encoding the peptidoglycan synthesis operon (PSO) located upstream of carR in the opposite orientation. The addition of stress-associated ligands such as penicillin and streptomycin induced carR, uspA, decE, and PSO expression in vivo, as well as attenuated binding of CarR to operator DNA in vitro. Importantly, stress response-induced up-regulation of carR, uspA, and PSO gene expression correlated with cell resistance to β-lactam antibiotics and aromatic compounds. Six highly conserved residues in CarR were found to strongly influence its ligand binding and transcriptional regulatory properties. Collectively, the results indicate that the ligand binding of CarR induces its dissociation from the carR–uspA promoter to derepress carR and uspA transcription. Ligand-free CarR also activates PSO expression, which in turn contributes to C. glutamicum stress resistance. The outcomes indicate that the stress response mechanism of CarR in C. glutamicum occurs via ligand-induced conformational changes to the protein, not via cysteine oxidation-based thiol modifications.


2020 ◽  
Vol 11 (SPL1) ◽  
pp. 977-982
Author(s):  
Mohamed J. Saadh ◽  
Bashar Haj Rashid M ◽  
Roa’a Matar ◽  
Sajeda Riyad Aldibs ◽  
Hala Sbaih ◽  
...  

SARS-COV2 virus causes Coronavirus disease (COVID-19) and represents the causative agent of a potentially fatal disease that is of great global public health concern. The novel coronavirus (2019) was discovered in 2019 in Wuhan, the market of the wet animal, China with viral pneumonia cases and is life-threatening. Today, WHO announces COVID-19 outbreak as a pandemic. COVID-19 is likely to be zoonotic. It is transmitted from bats as intermediary animals to human. Also, the virus is transmitted from human to human who is in close contact with others. The computerized tomographic chest scan is usually abnormal even in those with no symptoms or mild disease. Treatment is nearly supportive; the role of antiviral agents is yet to be established. The SARS-COV2 virus spreads faster than its two ancestors, the SARS-CoV and Middle East respiratory syndrome coronavirus (MERS-CoV), but has lower fatality. In this article, we aimed to summarize the transmission, symptoms, pathogenesis, diagnosis, treatment, and vaccine to control the spread of this fatal disease.


Author(s):  
Venu Madhav K ◽  
Somnath De ◽  
Chandra Shekar Bonagiri ◽  
Sridhar Babu Gummadi

Fenofibrate (FN) is used in the treatment of hypercholesterolemia. It shows poor dissolution and poor oral bioavailability after oral administration due to high liphophilicity and low aqueous solubility. Hence, solid dispersions (SDs) of FN (FN-SDs) were develop that might enhance the dissolution and subsequently oral bioavailability. FN-SDs were prepared by solvent casting method using different carriers (PEG 4000, PEG 6000, β cyclodextrin and HP β cyclodextrin) in different proportions (0.25%, 0.5%, 0.75% and 1% w/v). FN-SDs were evaluated solubility, assay and in vitro release studies for the optimization of SD formulation. Differential scanning calorimetry (DSC), powder X-ray diffraction (PXRD) and scanning electron microscopy (SEM) analysis was performed for crystalline and morphology analysis, respectively. Further, optimized FN-SD formulation evaluated for pharmacokinetic performance in Wistar rats, in vivo in comparison with FN suspension.  From the results, FN-SD3 and FN-SD6 have showed 102.9 ±1.3% and 105.5±3.1% drug release, respectively in 2 h. DSC and PXRD studies revealed that conversion of crystalline to amorphous nature of FN from FT-SD formulation. SEM studies revealed the change in the orientation of FN when incorporated in SDs. The oral bioavailability FN-SD3 and FN-SD6 formulations exhibited 2.5-folds and 3.1-folds improvement when compared to FN suspension as control. Overall, SD of FN could be considered as an alternative dosage form for the enhancement of oral delivery of poorly water-soluble FN.


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