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The global threat of multidrug-resistant Gram-negative bacterial pathogens necessitates the development of new and effective antibiotics. FtsZ is an essential and highly conserved cytoskeletal protein that is an appealing antibacterial target for new antimicrobial therapeutics. However, the effectiveness of FtsZ inhibitors against Gram-negative species has been limited due in part to poor intracellular accumulation. To address this limitation, we have designed a FtsZ inhibitor ( RUP4 ) that incorporates a chlorocatechol siderophore functionality that can chelate ferric iron (Fe 3+ ) and utilizes endogenous siderophore uptake pathways to facilitate entry into Gram-negative pathogens. We show that RUP4 is active against both Klebsiella pneumoniae and Acinetobacter baumannii , with this activity being dependent on direct Fe 3+ chelation and enhanced under Fe 3+ -limiting conditions. Genetic deletion studies in K. pneumoniae reveal that RUP4 gains entry through the FepA and CirA outer membrane transporters and the FhuBC inner membrane transporter. We also show that RUP4 exhibits bactericidal synergy against K. pneumoniae when combined with select antibiotics, with the strongest synergy observed with PBP2-targeting β-lactams or MreB inhibitors. In the aggregate, our studies indicate that incorporation of Fe 3+ -chelating moieties into FtsZ inhibitors is an appealing design strategy for enhancing activity against Gram-negative pathogens of global clinical significance.

Methicillin-resistant Staphylococcus aureus (MRSA) is a multidrug-resistant (MDR) bacterial pathogen of acute clinical significance. Resistance to current standard-of-care antibiotics, such as vancomycin and linezolid, among nosocomial and community-acquired MRSA clinical isolates is on the rise. This threat to global public health highlights the need to develop new antibiotics for the treatment of MRSA infections. Here, we describe a new benzamide FtsZ inhibitor (TXH9179) with superior antistaphylococcal activity relative to earlier-generation benzamides like PC190723 and TXA707. TXH9179 was found to be 4-fold more potent than TXA707 against a library of 55 methicillin-sensitive S. aureus (MSSA) and MRSA clinical isolates, including MRSA isolates resistant to vancomycin and linezolid. TXH9179 was also associated with a lower frequency of resistance relative to TXA707 in all but one of the MSSA and MRSA isolates examined, with the observed resistance being due to mutations in the ftsZ gene. TXH9179 induced changes in MRSA cell morphology, cell division, and FtsZ localization are fully consistent with its actions as a FtsZ inhibitor. Crystallographic studies demonstrate the direct interaction of TXH9179 with S. aureus FtsZ (SaFtsZ), while delineating the key molecular contacts that drive complex formation. TXH9179 was not associated with any mammalian cytotoxicity, even at a concentration 10-fold greater than that producing antistaphylococcal activity. In serum, the carboxamide prodrug of TXH9179 (TXH1033) is rapidly hydrolyzed to TXH9179 by serum acetylcholinesterases. Significantly, both intravenously and orally administered TXH1033 exhibited enhanced in vivo efficacy relative to the carboxamide prodrug of TXA707 (TXA709) in treating a mouse model of systemic (peritonitis) MRSA infection. Viewed as a whole, our results highlight TXH9179 as a promising new benzamide FtsZ inhibitor worthy of further development.

Chlamydiae are obligate intracellular Gram-negative bacteria and widespread pathogens in humans and animals. Broad-spectrum antibiotics are currently used to treat chlamydial infections. However, broad-spectrum drugs also kill beneficial bacteria. Recently, two generations of benzal acylhydrazones have been shown to selectively inhibit chlamydiae without toxicity to human cells and lactobacilli, which are dominating, beneficial bacteria in the vagina of reproductive-age women. Here, we report the identification of two acylpyrazoline-based third-generation selective antichlamydials (SACs). With minimal inhibitory concentrations (MIC) and minimal bactericidal concentrations (MBC) of 10-25 μM against Chlamydia trachomatis and Chlamydia muridarum , these new antichlamydials are 2- to 5-fold more potent over the benzal acylhydrazone-based second-generation selective antichlamydial lead SF3 . Both acylpyrazoline-based SACs are well tolerated by Lactobacillus , Escherichia coli , Klebsiella , and Salmonella as well as host cells. These third-generation selective antichlamydials merit further evaluation for therapeutic application., Competing Interests: The authors declare no competing financial interest., (© 2023 The Authors. Published by American Chemical Society.)

MreB is a cytoskeleton protein present in rod-shaped bacteria that is both essential for bacterial cell division and highly conserved. Because most Gram (-) bacteria require MreB for cell division, chromosome segregation, cell wall morphogenesis, and cell polarity, it is an attractive target for antibacterial drug discovery. As MreB modulation is not associated with the activity of antibiotics in clinical use, acquired resistance to MreB inhibitors is also unlikely. Compounds, such as A22 and CBR-4830, are known to disrupt MreB function by inhibition of ATPase activity. However, the toxicity of these compounds has hindered efforts to assess the in vivo efficacy of these MreB inhibitors. The present study further examines the structure-activity of analogs related to CBR-4830 as it relates to relative antibiotic activity and improved drug properties. These data reveal that certain analogs have enhanced antibiotic activity. In addition, we evaluated several representative analogs ( 9 , 10 , 14 , 26 , and 31 ) for their abilities to target purified E. coli MreB (EcMreB) and inhibit its ATPase activity. Except for 14 , all these analogs were more potent than CBR-4830 as inhibitors of the ATPase activity of EcMreB with corresponding IC 50 values ranging from 6 ± 2 to 29 ± 9 μM., Competing Interests: Conflict of interest The authors declare the following competing financial interest(s): EJLV and DSP are co-founders of TAXIS Pharmaceuticals, Inc. and AKPP is a shareholder and therefore have a financial interest in the company.

Oxacillin is a first-line antibiotic for the treatment of methicillin-sensitive Staphylococcus aureus (MSSA) infections but is ineffective against methicillin-resistant S. aureus (MRSA) due to resistance. Here we present results showing that co-administering oxacillin with the FtsZ-targeting prodrug TXA709 renders oxacillin efficacious against MRSA. The combination of oxacillin and the active product of TXA709 (TXA707) is associated with synergistic bactericidal activity against clinical isolates of MRSA that are resistant to current standard-of-care antibiotics. We show that MRSA cells treated with oxacillin in combination with TXA707 exhibit morphological characteristics and PBP2 mislocalization behavior similar to that exhibited by MSSA cells treated with oxacillin alone. Co-administration with TXA709 renders oxacillin efficacious in mouse models of both systemic and tissue infection with MRSA, with this efficacy being observed at human-equivalent doses of oxacillin well below that recommended for daily adult use. Pharmacokinetic evaluations in mice reveal that co-administration with TXA709 also increases total exposure to oxacillin. Viewed as a whole, our results highlight the clinical potential of repurposing oxacillin to treat MRSA infections through combination with a FtsZ inhibitor., Competing Interests: Conflict of interest Drs. Pilch and LaVoie are co-founders of TAXIS Pharmaceuticals and therefore have a financial interest in the company.

The emergence of multi-drug-resistant Gram-negative pathogens highlights an urgent clinical need to explore and develop new antibiotics with novel antibacterial targets. MreB is a promising antibacterial target that functions as an essential elongasome protein in most Gram-negative bacterial rods. Here, we describe a third-generation MreB inhibitor (TXH11106) with enhanced bactericidal activity versus the Gram-negative pathogens Escherichia coli , Klebsiella pneumoniae , Acinetobacter baumannii , and Pseudomonas aeruginosa compared to the first- and second-generation compounds A22 and CBR-4830, respectively. Large inocula of these four pathogens are associated with a low frequency of resistance (FOR) to TXH11106. The enhanced bactericidal activity of TXH11106 relative to A22 and CBR-4830 correlates with a correspondingly enhanced capacity to inhibit E. coli MreB ATPase activity via a noncompetitive mechanism. Morphological changes induced by TXH11106 in E. coli , K. pneumoniae , A. baumannii , and P. aeruginosa provide further evidence supporting MreB as the bactericidal target of the compound. Taken together, our results highlight the potential of TXH11106 as an MreB inhibitor with activity against a broad spectrum of Gram-negative bacterial pathogens of acute clinical importance.

Methicillin-resistant Staphylococcus aureus (MRSA) is a multidrug-resistant pathogen of acute clinical importance. Combination treatment with an FtsZ inhibitor potentiates the activity of penicillin binding protein (PBP)-targeting β-lactam antibiotics against MRSA. To explore the mechanism underlying this synergistic behavior, we examined the impact of treatment with the FtsZ inhibitor TXA707 on the spatial localization of the five PBP proteins expressed in MRSA. In the absence of drug treatment, PBP1, PBP2, PBP3, and PBP4 colocalize with FtsZ at the septum, contributing to new cell wall formation. In contrast, PBP2a localizes to distinct foci along the cell periphery. Upon treatment with TXA707, septum formation becomes disrupted, and FtsZ relocalizes away from midcell. PBP1 and PBP3 remain significantly colocalized with FtsZ, while PBP2, PBP4, and PBP2a localize away from FtsZ to specific sites along the periphery of the enlarged cells. We also examined the impact on PBP2a and PBP2 localization of treatment with β-lactam antibiotic oxacillin alone and in synergistic combination with TXA707. Significantly, PBP2a localizes to the septum in approximately 15% of the oxacillin-treated cells, a behavior that likely contributes to the β-lactam resistance of MRSA. Combination treatment with TXA707 causes both PBP2a and PBP2 to localize in malformed septum-like structures. Our collective results suggest that PBP2, PBP4, and PBP2a may function collaboratively in peripheral cell wall repair and maintenance in response to FtsZ inhibition by TXA707. Cotreatment with oxacillin appears to reduce the availability of PBP2a to assist in this repair, thereby rendering the MRSA cells more susceptible to the β-lactam. IMPORTANCE MRSA is a multidrug-resistant bacterial pathogen of acute clinical importance, infecting many thousands of individuals globally each year. The essential cell division protein FtsZ has been identified as an appealing target for the development of new drugs to combat MRSA infections. Through synergistic actions, FtsZ-targeting agents can sensitize MRSA to antibiotics like the β-lactams that would otherwise be ineffective. This study provides key insights into the mechanism underlying this synergistic behavior as well as MRSA resistance to β-lactam drugs. The results of this work will help guide the identification and optimization of combination drug regimens that can effectively treat MRSA infections and reduce the potential for future resistance.

Addressing the growing problem of antibiotic resistance requires the development of new drugs with novel antibacterial targets. FtsZ has been identified as an appealing new target for antibacterial agents. Here, we describe the structure-guided design of a new fluorescent probe (BOFP) in which a BODIPY fluorophore has been conjugated to an oxazole-benzamide FtsZ inhibitor. Crystallographic studies have enabled us to identify the optimal position for tethering the fluorophore that facilitates the high-affinity FtsZ binding of BOFP. Fluorescence anisotropy studies demonstrate that BOFP binds the FtsZ proteins from the Gram-positive pathogens Staphylococcus aureus, Enterococcus faecalis, Enterococcus faecium, Streptococcus pyogenes, Streptococcus agalactiae, and Streptococcus pneumoniae with K d values of 0.6-4.6 µM. Significantly, BOFP binds the FtsZ proteins from the Gram-negative pathogens Escherichia coli, Klebsiella pneumoniae, Pseudomonas aeruginosa, and Acinetobacter baumannii with an even higher affinity (K d  = 0.2-0.8 µM). Fluorescence microscopy studies reveal that BOFP can effectively label FtsZ in all the above Gram-positive and Gram-negative pathogens. In addition, BOFP is effective at monitoring the impact of non-fluorescent inhibitors on FtsZ localization in these target pathogens. Viewed as a whole, our results highlight the utility of BOFP as a powerful tool for identifying new broad-spectrum FtsZ inhibitors and understanding their mechanisms of action.

Several studies that have identified agents that potentiate the antimicrobial activity of antibiotics, but there are limited insights into their structure-activity relationships (SAR). The SAR associated with select N-alkylaryl amide derivatives of ornithine was performed to establish those structural features that were associated with potentiation of the antimicrobial activity of clarithromycin against E. coli ATCC 25922. The data indicate that the N-propyl derivative was slightly more active in reducing the effective MIC of clarithromycin against E. coli ATCC 25922. In addition, the S-enantiomer of compound 9 was somewhat more potent than the R-enantiomer in potentiating clarithromycin activity. No significant enhancement in potentiation activity was observed with the conversion of these secondary amides to their N-methyl tertiary amides. Formation of the N-methyl or N,N-dimethyl derivatives of the primary amine of 9 was associated with the loss of potentiation activity. Conversion of this primary amine to a guanidine was also not associated with an increase in potentiation activity. Among the isomeric diamino pentamides, 15 potentiated the antibacterial activity of clarithromycin to the greatest extent. In addition to these amide derivatives, the desoxy derivatives 16 and 18 were the more potent potentiators within this triamine series. The relative location of the primary amines, as indicated by the relative differences in the potentiation observed with 16 compared to 14, appears to be a critical factor in determining potentiation activity. Cell-based membrane permeabilization and efflux inhibition studies in E. coli ATCC 25922 suggest that the potentiation of clarithromycin activity by 16 reflects its ability to inhibit efflux pump activity and to a lesser extent its actions as a permeabilizer of the outer leaflet of the outer cell membrane., (Copyright © 2019 Elsevier Masson SAS. All rights reserved.)

Methicillin-resistant Staphylococcus aureus (MRSA) is a multidrug-resistant pathogen that poses a significant risk to global health today. We have developed a promising new FtsZ-targeting agent (TXA707) with potent activity against MRSA isolates resistant to current standard-of-care antibiotics. We present here results that demonstrate differing extents of synergy between TXA707 and a broad range of β-lactam antibiotics (including six cephalosporins, two penicillins, and two carbapenems) against MRSA. To explore whether there is a correlation between the extent of synergy and the preferential antibacterial target of each β-lactam, we determined the binding affinities of the β-lactam antibiotics for each of the four native penicillin-binding proteins (PBPs) of S. aureus using a fluorescence anisotropy competition assay. A comparison of the resulting PBP binding affinities with our corresponding synergy results reveals that β-lactams with a high affinity for PBP2 afford the greatest degree of synergy with TXA707 against MRSA. In addition, we present fluorescence and electron microscopy studies that suggest a potential mechanism underlying the synergy between TXA707 and the β-lactam antibiotics. In this connection, our microscopy results show a disruption of septum formation in TXA707-treated MRSA cells, with a concomitant mislocalization of the PBPs from midcell to nonproductive peripheral sites. Viewed as a whole, our results indicate that PBP2-targeting β-lactam antibiotics are optimal synergistic partners with FtsZ-targeting agents for use in combination therapy of MRSA infections., (Copyright © 2017 American Society for Microbiology.)

In the effort to combat antibiotic resistance, inhibitors of the essential bacterial protein FtsZ have emerged as a promising new class of compounds with clinical potential. One such FtsZ inhibitor (TXA707) is associated with potent activity against clinical isolates of methicillin-resistant Staphylococcus aureus (MRSA) that are resistant to current standard-of-care antibiotics. However, mutations in S. aureus FtsZ (SaFtsZ) that confer resistance to TXA707 have been observed, with mutations in the Gly196 and Gly193 residues being among the most prevalent. Here, we describe structural studies of an FtsZ inhibitor, TXA6101, which retains activity against MRSA isolates that express either G196S or G193D mutant FtsZ. We present the crystal structures of TXA6101 in complex with both wild-type SaFtsZ and G196S mutant SaFtsZ, as well the crystal structure of TXA707 in complex with wild-type SaFtsZ. Comparison of the three structures reveals a molecular basis for the differential targeting abilities of TXA6101 and TXA707. The greater structural flexibility of TXA6101 relative to TXA707 enables TXA6101 to avoid steric clashes with Ser196 and Asp193. Our structures also demonstrate that the binding of TXA6101 induces previously unobserved conformational rearrangements of SaFtsZ residues in the binding pocket. In aggregate, the structures reported in this work reveal key factors for overcoming drug resistance mutations in SaFtsZ and offer a structural basis for the design of FtsZ inhibitors with enhanced antibacterial potency and reduced susceptibility to mutational resistance.

Combination therapy of bacterial infections with synergistic drug partners offers distinct advantages over monotherapy. Among these advantages are (i) a reduction of the drug dose required for efficacy, (ii) a reduced potential for drug-induced toxicity, and (iii) a reduced potential for the emergence of resistance. Here, we describe the synergistic actions of the third-generation oral cephalosporin cefdinir and TXA709, a new, FtsZ-targeting prodrug that we have developed with improved pharmacokinetics and enhanced in vivo efficacy against methicillin-resistant Staphylococcus aureus (MRSA) relative to earlier agents. We show that the active product of TXA709 (TXA707) acts synergistically with cefdinir in vitro against clinical isolates of MRSA, vancomycin-intermediate S. aureus (VISA), vancomycin-resistant S. aureus (VRSA), and linezolid-resistant S. aureus (LRSA). In addition, relative to TXA707 alone, the combination of TXA707 and cefdinir significantly reduces or eliminates the detectable emergence of resistance. We also demonstrate synergy in vivo with oral administration of the prodrug TXA709 and cefdinir in mouse models of both systemic and tissue (thigh) infections with MRSA. This synergy reduces the dose of TXA709 required for efficacy 3-fold. Viewed as a whole, our results highlight the potential of TXA709 and cefdinir as a promising combination for the treatment of drug-resistant staphylococcal infections., (Copyright © 2016, American Society for Microbiology. All Rights Reserved.)

This unit describes the application of calorimetry to characterize the thermodynamics of nucleic acids, specifically, the two major calorimetric methodologies that are currently employed: differential scanning (DSC) and isothermal titration calorimetry (ITC). DSC is used to study thermally induced order-disorder transitions in nucleic acids. A DSC instrument measures, as a function of temperature (T), the excess heat capacity (C(p)(ex)) of a nucleic acid solution relative to the same amount of buffer solution. From a single curve of C(p)(ex) versus T, one can derive the following information: the transition enthalpy (ΔH), entropy (ΔS), free energy (ΔG), and heat capacity (ΔCp); the state of the transition (two-state versus multistate); and the average size of the molecule that melts as a single thermodynamic entity (e.g., the duplex). ITC is used to study the hybridization of nucleic acid molecules at constant temperature. In an ITC experiment, small aliquots of a titrant nucleic acid solution (strand 1) are added to an analyte nucleic acid solution (strand 2), and the released heat is monitored. ITC yields the stoichiometry of the association reaction (n), the enthalpy of association (ΔH), the equilibrium association constant (K), and thus the free energy of association (ΔG). Once ΔH and ΔG are known, ΔS can also be derived. Repetition of the ITC experiment at a number of different temperatures yields the ΔCp for the association reaction from the temperature dependence of ΔH., (Copyright © 2015 John Wiley & Sons, Inc.)

The clinical development of FtsZ-targeting benzamide compounds like PC190723 has been limited by poor drug-like and pharmacokinetic properties. Development of prodrugs of PC190723 (e.g., TXY541) resulted in enhanced pharmaceutical properties, which, in turn, led to improved intravenous efficacy as well as the first demonstration of oral efficacy in vivo against both methicillin-sensitive Staphylococcus aureus (MSSA) and methicillin-resistant S. aureus (MRSA). Despite being efficacious in vivo, TXY541 still suffered from suboptimal pharmacokinetics and the requirement of high efficacious doses. We describe here the design of a new prodrug (TXA709) in which the Cl group on the pyridyl ring has been replaced with a CF3 functionality that is resistant to metabolic attack. As a result of this enhanced metabolic stability, the product of the TXA709 prodrug (TXA707) is associated with improved pharmacokinetic properties (a 6.5-fold-longer half-life and a 3-fold-greater oral bioavailability) and superior in vivo antistaphylococcal efficacy relative to PC190723. We validate FtsZ as the antibacterial target of TXA707 and demonstrate that the compound retains potent bactericidal activity against S. aureus strains resistant to the current standard-of-care drugs vancomycin, daptomycin, and linezolid. These collective properties, coupled with minimal observed toxicity to mammalian cells, establish the prodrug TXA709 as an antistaphylococcal agent worthy of clinical development., (Copyright © 2015, American Society for Microbiology. All Rights Reserved.)

TXA497 is representative of a new class of guanidinomethyl biaryl compounds that exhibit potent bactericidal behavior against methicillin-resistant Staphylococcus aureus (MRSA). In this study, we compared the anti-staphylococcal, skin deposition, and skin permeation properties of TXA497 and the topical anti-MRSA antibiotic mupirocin. The results of minimum inhibitory concentration (MIC) assays revealed that TXA497 retains potent activity against MRSA that is highly resistant to mupirocin. Using Franz diffusion cells, compound deposition into human cadaver skin was evaluated, and the results showed the skin deposition of TXA497 to be significantly greater than that of mupirocin. Moreover, unlike mupirocin, TXA497 does not pass through the entire skin layer, suggesting a minimal potential for the systemic absorption of the compound upon topical administration. Additionally, antibacterial concentrations of TXA497 showed no significant toxicity to primary human keratinocytes. Given the rising levels of mupirocin resistance among MRSA populations, our results are significant in that they highlight TXA497 as a potentially useful alternative therapy for treating MRSA skin infections that are resistant to mupirocin., (Copyright © 2014 Elsevier B.V. All rights reserved.)

Infections caused by Gram-negative bacterial pathogens are often difficult to treat, with the emergence of multidrug-resistant strains further restricting clinical treatment options. As a result, there is an acute need for the development of new therapeutic agents active against Gram-negative bacteria. The bacterial protein FtsZ has recently been demonstrated to be a viable antibacterial target for treating infections caused by the Gram-positive bacteria Staphylococcus aureus in mouse model systems. Here, we investigate whether an FtsZ-directed prodrug (TXY436) that is effective against S. aureus can also target Gram-negative bacteria, such as Escherichia coli. We find that the conversion product of TXY436 (PC190723) can bind E. coli FtsZ and inhibit its polymerization/bundling in vitro. However, PC190723 is intrinsically inactive against wild-type E. coli, with this inactivity being derived from the actions of the efflux pump AcrAB. Mutations in E. coli AcrAB render the mutant bacteria susceptible to TXY436. We further show that chemical inhibition of AcrAB in E. coli, as well as its homologs in Klebsiella pneumoniae and Acinetobacter baumannii, confers all three Gram-negative pathogens with susceptibility to TXY436. We demonstrate that the activity of TXY436 against E. coli and K. pneumoniae is bactericidal in nature. Evidence for FtsZ-targeting and inhibition of cell division in Gram-negative bacteria by TXY436 is provided by the induction of a characteristic filamentous morphology when the efflux pump has been inhibited as well as by the lack of functional Z-rings upon TXY436 treatment., (Copyright © 2014 Elsevier Inc. All rights reserved.)

The benzamide derivative PC190723 was among the first of a promising new class of FtsZ-directed antibacterial agents to be identified that exhibit potent antistaphylococcal activity. However, the compound is associated with poor drug-like properties. As part of an ongoing effort to develop FtsZ-targeting antibacterial agents with increased potential for clinical utility, we describe herein the pharmacodynamics, pharmacokinetics, in vivo antistaphylococcal efficacy, and mammalian cytotoxicity of TXY541, a novel 1-methylpiperidine-4-carboxamide prodrug of PC190723. TXY541 was found to be 143-times more soluble than PC190723 in an aqueous acidic vehicle (10mM citrate, pH 2.6) suitable for both oral and intravenous in vivo administration. In staphylococcal growth media, TXY541 converts to PC190723 with a half-life of approximately 8h. In 100% mouse serum, the TXY541-to-PC190723 conversion was much more rapid (with a half-life of approximately 3min), suggesting that the conversion of the prodrug in serum is predominantly enzyme-catalyzed. Pharmacokinetic analysis of both orally and intravenously administered TXY541 in mice yielded a half-life for the PC190723 conversion product of 0.56h and an oral bioavailability of 29.6%. Whether administered orally or intravenously, TXY541 was found to be efficacious in vivo in mouse models of systemic infection with both methicillin-sensitive and methicillin-resistant S. aureus. Toxicological assessment of TXY541 against mammalian cells revealed minimal detectable cytotoxicity. The results presented here highlight TXY541 as a potential therapeutic agent that warrants further pre-clinical development., (Copyright © 2013 Elsevier Inc. All rights reserved.)

The bacterial cell division protein FtsZ represents a novel antibiotic target that has yet to be exploited clinically. The benzamide PC190723 was among the first FtsZ-targeting compounds to exhibit in vivo efficacy in a murine infection model system. Despite its initial promise, the poor formulation properties of the compound have limited its potential for clinical development. We describe here the development of an N-Mannich base derivative of PC190723 with enhanced drug-like properties and oral in vivo efficacy. The N-Mannich base derivative (TXY436) is ∼100-fold more soluble than PC190723 in an acidic aqueous vehicle (10 mM citrate, pH 2.6) suitable for oral in vivo administration. At physiological pH (7.4), TXY436 acts as a prodrug, converting to PC190723 with a conversion half-life of 18.2 ± 1.6 min. Pharmacokinetic analysis following intravenous administration of TXY436 into mice yielded elimination half-lives of 0.26 and 0.96 h for the TXY436 prodrug and its PC190723 product, respectively. In addition, TXY436 was found to be orally bioavailable and associated with significant extravascular distribution. Using a mouse model of systemic infection with methicillin-sensitive Staphylococcus aureus or methicillin-resistant S. aureus, we show that TXY436 is efficacious in vivo upon oral administration. In contrast, the oral administration of PC190723 was not efficacious. Mammalian cytotoxicity studies of TXY436 using Vero cells revealed an absence of toxicity up to compound concentrations at least 64 times greater than those associated with antistaphylococcal activity. These collective properties make TXY436 a worthy candidate for further investigation as a clinically useful agent for the treatment of staphylococcal infections.

New antibiotics with novel mechanisms of action are urgently needed to overcome the growing bacterial resistance problem faced by clinicians today. PC190723 and related compounds represent a promising new class of antibacterial compounds that target the essential bacterial cell division protein FtsZ. While this family of compounds exhibits potent antistaphylococcal activity, they have poor activity against enterococci and streptococci. The studies described herein are aimed at investigating the molecular basis of the enterococcal and streptococcal resistance to this family of compounds. We show that the poor activity of the compounds against enterococci and streptococci correlates with a correspondingly weak impact of the compounds on the self-polymerization of the FtsZ proteins from those bacteria. In addition, computational and mutational studies identify two key FtsZ residues (E34 and R308) as being important determinants of enterococcal and streptococcal resistance to the PC190723-type class of compounds., (Copyright © 2013 Elsevier Masson SAS. All rights reserved.)

Pyridyl polyoxazoles are 24-membered macrocyclic lactams comprised of a pyridine, four oxazoles and a phenyl ring. A derivative having a 2-(dimethylamino)ethyl chain attached to the 5-position of the phenyl ring was recently identified as a selective G-quadruplex stabilizer with excellent cytotoxic activity, and good in vivo anticancer activity against a human breast cancer xenograft in mice. Here we detail the synthesis of eight new dimethylamino-substituted pyridyl polyoxazoles in which the point of attachment to the macrocycle, as well as the distance between the amine and the macrocycle are varied. Each compound was evaluated for selective G-quadruplex stabilization and cytotoxic activity. The more active analogs have the amine either directly attached to, or separated from the phenyl ring by two methylene groups. There is a correlation between those macrocycles that are effective ligands for the stabilization of G-quadruplex DNA (DT(tran) 15.5-24.6 °C) and cytotoxicity as observed in the human tumor cell lines, RPMI 8402 (IC₅₀ 0.06-0.50 μM) and KB3-1 (IC₅₀ 0.03-0.07 μM). These are highly selective G-quadruplex stabilizers, which should prove especially useful for evaluating both in vitro and in vivo mechanism(s) of biological activity associated with G-quaqdruplex ligands.

Several phenyl substituted naphthalenes and isoquinolines have been identified as antibacterial agents that inhibit FtsZ-Zing formation. In the present study we evaluated the antibacterial of several phenyl substituted quinoxalines, quinazolines and 1,5-naphthyridines against methicillin-sensitive and methicillin-resistant Staphylococcusaureus and vancomycin-sensitive and vancomycin-resistant Enterococcusfaecalis. Some of the more active compounds against S. aureus were evaluated for their effect on FtsZ protein polymerization. Further studies were also performed to assess their relative bactericidal and bacteriostatic activities. The notable differences observed between nonquaternized and quaternized quinoxaline derivatives suggest that differing mechanisms of action are associated with their antibacterial properties., (Copyright © 2013 Elsevier Ltd. All rights reserved.)

A series of macrocyclic biphenyl tetraoxazoles was synthesized. The latter stages of the synthetic approach allowed for the addition of varied N-protected α-amino acids, which were subsequently deprotected and condensed to provide the desired macrocycles. Improved yields could be realized in the macrocyclization step of their synthesis relative to other macrocyclic G-quadruplex stabilizers. These 24-membered macrocycles were evaluated for their ability to stabilize G-quadruplex DNA and for their relative cytotoxicity against human tumor cells. These biphenyl tetraoxazoles were not strong ligands for G-quadruplex DNA relative to other macrocyclic polyoxazoles. This reduced stabilizing potential did correlate with their comparatively lower cytotoxic activity as observed in the human tumor cell lines, RPMI 8402 and KB3-1. These studies provide useful insights into the conformational requirements for the development of selective and more potent G-quadruplex ligands., (Copyright © 2013. Published by Elsevier Ltd.)

Bacterial cell division occurs in conjunction with the formation of a cytokinetic Z-ring structure comprised of FtsZ subunits. Agents that disrupt Z-ring formation have the potential, through this unique mechanism, to be effective against several of the newly emerging multidrug-resistant strains of infectious bacteria. Several 1-phenylbenzo[c]phenanthridines exhibit notable antibacterial activity. Based upon their structural similarity to these compounds, a distinct series of substituted 1,6-diphenylnaphthalenes were synthesized and evaluated for antibacterial activity against Staphylococcus aureus and Enterococcus faecalis. In addition, the effect of select 1,6-diphenylnaphthalenes on the polymerization dynamics of S. aureus FtsZ and mammalian β-tubulin was also assessed. The presence of a basic functional group or a quaternary ammonium substituent on the 6-phenylnaphthalene was required for significant antibacterial activity. Diphenylnaphthalene derivatives that were active as antibiotics, did exert a pronounced effect on bacterial FtsZ polymerization and do not appear to cross-react with mammalian tubulin to any significant degree., (Copyright © 2013 Elsevier Ltd. All rights reserved.)

Bacterial cell division occurs in conjunction with the formation of a cytokinetic Z-ring structure comprised of FtsZ subunits. Agents that can disrupt Z-ring formation have the potential, through this unique mechanism, to be effective against several of the newly emerging multi-drug resistant strains of infectious bacteria. 1- and 12-Aryl substituted benzo[c]phenanthridines have been identified as antibacterial agents that could exert their activity by disruption of Z-ring formation. Substituted 4- and 5-amino-1-phenylnaphthalenes represent substructures within the pharmacophore of these benzo[c]phenanthridines. Several 4- and 5-substituted 1-phenylnaphthalenes were synthesized and evaluated for antibacterial activity against Staphylococcus aureus and Enterococcus faecalis. The impact of select compounds on the polymerization dynamics of S. aureus FtsZ was also assessed., (Copyright © 2012 Elsevier Masson SAS. All rights reserved.)

The emergence of multidrug-resistant bacteria has created an urgent need for antibiotics with a novel mechanism of action. The bacterial cell division protein FtsZ is an attractive target for the development of novel antibiotics. The benzo[c]phenanthridinium sanguinarine and the dibenzo[a,g]quinolizin-7-ium berberine are two structurally similar plant alkaloids that alter FtsZ function. The presence of a hydrophobic functionality at either the 1-position of 5-methylbenzo[c]phenanthridinium derivatives or the 2-position of dibenzo[a,g]quinolizin-7-ium derivatives is associated with significantly enhanced antibacterial activity. 3-Phenylisoquinoline represents a subunit within the ring-systems of both of these alkaloids. Several 3-phenylisoquinolines and 3-phenylisoquinolinium derivatives have been synthesized and evaluated for antibacterial activity against Staphylococcus aureus and Enterococcus faecalis, including multidrug-resistant strains of methicillin-resistant S. aureus (MRSA) and vancomycin-resistant E. faecalis (VRE). A number of derivatives were found to have activity against both MRSA and VRE. The binding of select compounds to S. aureus FtsZ (SaFtsZ) was demonstrated and characterized using fluorescence spectroscopy. In addition, the compounds were shown to act as stabilizers of SaFtsZ polymers and concomitant inhibitors of SaFtsZ GTPase activity. Toxicological assessment of select compounds revealed minimal cross-reaction mammalian β-tubulin as well as little or no human cytotoxicity., (Copyright © 2012 Elsevier Ltd. All rights reserved.)

Antibiotic resistance has prompted efforts to discover antibiotics with novel mechanisms of action. FtsZ is an essential protein for bacterial cell division, and has been viewed as an attractive target for the development of new antibiotics. Sanguinarine is a benzophenanthridine alkaloid that prevents cytokinesis in bacteria by inhibiting FtsZ self-assembly. In this study, a series of 5-methylbenzo[c]phenanthridinium derivatives were synthesized and evaluated for antibacterial activity against Staphylococcus aureus and Enterococcus faecalis. The data indicate that the presence of a 1- or 12-phenyl substituent on 2,3,8,9-tetramethoxy-5-methylbenzo[c]phenanthridinium chloride significantly enhances antibacterial activity relative to the parent compound or sanguinarine., (Copyright © 2012 Elsevier Ltd. All rights reserved.)

The prevalence of multidrug resistance among clinically significant bacterial pathogens underscores a critical need for the development of new classes of antibiotics with novel mechanisms of action. Here we describe the synthesis and evaluation of a guanidinomethyl biaryl compound {1-((4'-(tert-butyl)-[1,1'-biphenyl]-3-yl)methyl)guanidine} that targets the bacterial cell division protein FtsZ. In vitro studies with various bacterial FtsZ proteins reveal that the compound alters the dynamics of FtsZ self-polymerization via a stimulatory mechanism, while minimally impacting the polymerization of tubulin, the closest mammalian homologue of FtsZ. The FtsZ binding site of the compound is identified through a combination of computational and mutational approaches. The compound exhibits a broad spectrum of bactericidal activity, including activity against the multidrug-resistant pathogens methicillin-resistant Staphylococcus aureus (MRSA) and vancomycin-resistant Enterococcus (VRE), while also exhibiting a minimal potential to induce resistance. Taken together, our results highlight the compound as a promising new FtsZ-targeting bactericidal agent.

Berberine is a substituted dibenzo[a,g]quinolizin-7-ium derivative whose modest antibiotic activity is derived from its disruptive impact on the function of the essential bacterial cell division protein FtsZ. The present study reveals that the presence of a biphenyl substituent at either the 2- or 12-position of structurally-related dibenzo[a,g]quinolizin-7-ium derivatives significantly enhances antibacterial potency versus Staphylococcus aureus and Enterococcus faecalis. Studies with purified S. aureus FtsZ demonstrate that both 2- and 12-biphenyl dibenzo[a,g]quinolizin-7-ium derivatives act as enhancers of FtsZ self-polymerization., (Copyright © 2012 Elsevier Ltd. All rights reserved.)

A series of 24-membered macrocyclic hexaoxazoles containing one or two aminoalkyl substituents was synthesized and evaluated for cytotoxicity and for their ability to selectively stabilize G-quadruplex DNA and RNA. The most cytotoxic analog 4a, with IC(50) values of 25 and 130 nM using KB3-1 and RPMI 8402 cells, is efficacious in vivo in athymic nude mice with a human tumor xenograft from the breast cancer cell line MDA-MB-435., (Copyright 2010 Elsevier Ltd. All rights reserved.)

The synthesis of a series of 24-membered pyridine-containing polyoxazole macrocycles is described. Seventeen new macrocycles were evaluated for cytotoxic activity against RPMI 8402, KB-3, and KB-3 cell lines that overexpress the efflux transporters MDR1 (KBV-1) and BCRP (KBH5.0). Macrocycles in which the pyridyl-polyoxazole moiety is linked by a 1,3-bis(aminomethyl)phenyl group with a 5-(2-aminoethyl)- (18) or a 5-(2-dimethylaminoethyl)- substituent (19) displayed the greatest cytotoxic potency. These compounds exhibit exquisite selectivity for stabilizing G-quadruplex DNA with no stabilization of duplex DNA or RNA. Compound 19 stabilizes quadruplex mRNA that encodes the cell-cycle checkpoint protein kinase Aurora A to a greater extent than the quadruplex DNA of a human telomeric sequence. These data may suggest a role for G-quadruplex ligands interacting with mRNA being associated with the biological activity of macrocyclic polyoxazoles. Compound 19 has significant in vivo anticancer activity against a human breast cancer xenograft (MDA-MB-435) in athymic nude mice.

G-quadruplex stabilizers such as telomestatin and HXDV bind with exquisite specificity to G-quadruplexes, but not to triplex, duplex, or single-stranded DNAs. Studies have suggested that the antiproliferative and possibly anti-tumor activities of these compounds are linked to their inhibitory effect on telomerase and/or telomere function. In the current studies, we show that HXDV, a synthetic analog of telomestatin, exhibits antiproliferative activity against both telomerase-positive and -negative cells and induces robust apoptosis within 16 h of treatment, suggesting a mode of action independent of telomerase. HXDV was also shown to inhibit cell cycle progression causing M-phase cell cycle arrest, as evidenced by accumulation of cells with 4 n DNA content, increased mitotic index, separated centrosomes, elevated histone H3 phosphorylation at Ser-10 (an M-phase marker), and defective chromosome alignment and spindle fiber assembly (revealed by time-lapse microscopy). The M-phase arrest caused by HXDV paralleled with reduction in the expression level of the major M-phase checkpoint regulator Aurora A. All these cellular effects appear to depend on the G-quadruplex binding activity of HXDV as its non-G-quadruplex binding analog, TXTLeu, is completely devoid of all these effects. In the aggregate, our results suggest that HXDV, which exhibits anti-proliferative and apoptotic activities, is also a novel M-phase blocker, with a mode of action dependent on its G-quadruplex binding activity.

Nonsense mutations promote premature translational termination and represent the underlying cause of a large number of human genetic diseases. The aminoglycoside antibiotic gentamicin has the ability to allow the mammalian ribosome to read past a false-stop signal and generate full-length functional proteins. However, severe toxic side effects along with the reduced suppression efficiency at subtoxic doses limit the use of gentamicin for suppression therapy. We describe here the first systematic development of the novel aminoglycoside 2 (NB54) exhibiting superior in vitro readthrough efficiency to that of gentamicin in seven different DNA fragments derived from mutant genes carrying nonsense mutations representing the genetic diseases Usher syndrome, cystic fibrosis, Duchenne muscular dystrophy, and Hurler syndrome. Comparative acute lethal toxicity in mice, cell toxicity, and the assessment of hair cell toxicity in cochlear explants further indicated that 2 exhibits far lower toxicity than that of gentamicin.

Oxazole-containing macrocycles, which include the natural product telomestatin, represent a promising class of anticancer agents that target G-quadruplex DNA. Two synthetic hexaoxazole-containing macrocyclic compounds (HXDV and HXLV-AC) have been characterized with regard to their cytotoxic activities versus human cancer cells, as well as the mode, thermodynamics, and specificity with which they bind to the intramolecular (3+1) G-quadruplex structural motif formed in the presence of K+ ions by human telomeric DNA. Both compounds exhibit cytotoxic activities versus human lymphoblast (RPMI 8402) and oral carcinoma (KB3-1) cells, with associated IC50 values ranging from 0.4 to 0.9microM. The compounds bind solely to the quadruplex nucleic acid form, but not to the duplex or triplex form. Binding to the quadruplex is associated with a stoichiometry of two ligand molecules per DNA molecule, with one ligand molecule binding to each end of the host quadruplex via a nonintercalative "terminal capping" mode of interaction. For both compounds, quadruplex binding is primarily entropy driven, while also being associated with a negative change in heat capacity. These thermodynamic properties reflect contributions from favorable ligand-induced alterations in the loop configurational entropies of the quadruplex, but not from changes in net hydration. The stoichiometry and mode of binding revealed by our studies have profound implications with regard to the number of ligand molecules that can potentially bind the 3-overhang region of human telomeric DNA.

The synthesis of a 24-membered macrocyclic hexaoxazole via ring-closing metathesis is described. The target compound selectively stabilizes G-quadruplex DNA with no detectable stabilization of duplex DNA. An MTT cytotoxicity assay indicated that this unsaturated macrocyclic hexaoxazole exhibits significant cytotoxicity toward P388, RPMI 8402, and KB3-1 cell lines with IC50 values of 45, 25, and 38 nM, respectively.

Macrocyclic hexaoxazoles having one or two lysinyl side chains in which the terminal nitrogen is either a primary amine, N,N-dimethylamine, or an acetamide have been synthesized. Sodium ion has been found to be beneficial to the macrocyclization step by acting as a template around which the linear polyoxazole can organize. Each of the targeted compounds selectivity stabilizes G-quadruplex versus duplex DNA. Compounds with one valine and one lysine residue display the best combination of G-quadruplex stabilizing ability with no detectable stabilization of duplex DNA.

The lack of absolute prokaryotic selectivity of natural antibiotics is widespread and is a significant clinical problem. The use of this disadvantage of aminoglycoside antibiotics for the possible treatment of human genetic diseases is extremely challenging. Here, we have used a combination of biochemical and structural analysis to compare and contrast the molecular mechanisms of action and the structure-activity relationships of a new synthetic aminoglycoside, NB33, and a structurally similar natural aminoglycoside apramycin. The data presented herein demonstrate the general molecular principles that determine the decreased selectivity of apramycin for the prokaryotic decoding site, and the increased selectivity of NB33 for the eukaryotic decoding site. These results are therefore extremely beneficial for further research on both the design of new aminoglycoside-based antibiotics with diminished deleterious effects on humans, as well as the design of new aminoglycoside-based structures that selectively target the eukaryotic ribosome.

The growing threat from the emergence of multidrug resistant pathogens highlights a critical need to expand our currently available arsenal of broad-spectrum antibiotics. In this connection, new antibiotics must be developed that exhibit the abilities to circumvent known resistance pathways. An important step toward achieving this goal is to define the key molecular interactions that govern antibiotic resistance. Here, we use site-specific mutagenesis, coupled with calorimetric, NMR, and enzymological techniques, to define the key interactions that govern the binding of the aminoglycoside antibiotics neomycin and kanamycin B to APH(3')-IIIa (an antibiotic phosphorylating enzyme that confers resistance). Our mutational analyses identify the D261, E262, and C-terminal F264 residues of the enzyme as being critical for recognition of the two drugs as well as for the manifestation of the resistance phenotype. In addition, the E160 residue is more important for recognition of kanamycin B than neomycin, with mutation of this residue partially restoring sensitivity to kanamycin B but not to neomycin. By contrast, the D193 residue partially restores sensitivity to neomycin but not to kanamycin B, with the origins of this differential effect being due to the importance of D193 for catalyzing the phosphorylation of neomycin. These collective mutational results, coupled with (15)N NMR-derived pK(a) and calorimetrically derived binding-linked drug protonation data, identify the 1-, 3-, and 2'-amino groups of both neomycin and kanamycin B as being critical functionalities for binding to APH(3')-IIIa. These drug amino functionalities represent potential sites of modification in the design of next-generation compounds that can overcome APH(3')-IIIa-induced resistance.

2-Deoxystreptamine (2-DOS) aminoglycosides exert their antibiotic actions by binding to the A site of the 16S rRNA and interfering with bacterial protein synthesis. However, the molecular forces that govern the antitranslational activities of aminoglycosides are poorly understood. Here, we describe studies aimed at elucidating these molecular forces. In this connection, we compare the bactericidal, antitranslational, and rRNA binding properties of the 4,5-disubstituted 2-DOS aminoglycoside neomycin (Neo) and a conformationally restricted analog of Neo (CR-Neo) in which the 2'-nitrogen atom is covalently conjugated to the 5''-carbon atom. The bactericidal potency of Neo exceeds that of CR-Neo, with this enhanced antibacterial activity reflecting a correspondingly enhanced antitranslational potency. Time-resolved fluorescence anisotropy studies suggest that the enhanced antitranslational potency of Neo relative to that of CR-Neo is due to a greater extent of drug-induced reduction in the mobilities of the nucleotides at positions 1492 and 1493 of the rRNA A site. Buffer- and salt-dependent binding studies, coupled with high-resolution structural information, point to electrostatic contacts between the 2'-amino functionality of Neo and the host rRNA as being an important modulator of 1492 and 1493 base mobilities and therefore antitranslational activities.

Spectroscopic and calorimetric techniques have been employed to characterize the impact of incorporation of the fluorescent base analog 2-aminopurine into the 1492 or 1493 position of an E. coli rRNA A-site model oligonucleotide, as well as the energetics and dynamics associated with recognition of this A-site model oligomer by aminoglycoside antibiotics. The results of these studies indicate that incorporation of 2AP into either the 1492 or 1493 position does not perturb the structure or stability of the host RNA or its aminoglycoside binding affinity. In addition, the results also highlight drug-induced reduction in the mobilities of the bases at both positions 1492 and 1493 as a potentially key determinant of bactericidal potency.

Many agents (e.g. camptothecins, indolocarbazoles, indenoisoquinolines, and dibenzonaphthyridines) stimulate topoisomerase I (TOP1)-mediated DNA cleavage (a behavior termed topoisomerase I poisoning) by interacting with both the DNA and the enzyme at the site of cleavage (typically by intercalation between the -1 and +1 base-pairs). The bibenzimidazoles, which include Hoechst 33258 and 33342, are a family of DNA minor groove-directed agents that also stimulate topoisomerase I-mediated DNA cleavage. However, the molecular mechanism by which these ligands poison TOP1 is poorly understood. Toward this goal, we have used a combination of mutational, footprinting, and DNA binding affinity analyses to define the DNA binding site for Hoechst 33258 and a related derivative that results in optimal induction of TOP1-mediated DNA cleavage. We show that this DNA binding site is located downstream from the site of DNA cleavage, encompassing the base-pairs from position +4 to +8. The distal nature of this binding site relative to the site of DNA cleavage suggests that minor groove-directed agents like the bibenzimidazoles poison TOP1 via a mechanism distinct from compounds like the camptothecins, which interact at the site of cleavage.

Oxazole-containing macrocycles represent a promising class of anticancer agents that target G-quadruplex DNA. We report the results of spectroscopic studies aimed at defining the mode, energetics and specificity with which a hexaoxazole-containing macrocycle (HXDV) binds to the intramolecular quadruplex formed by the human telomeric DNA model oligonucleotide d(T2AG3)4 in the presence of potassium ions. HXDV binds solely to the quadruplex nucleic acid form, but not to the duplex or triplex form. HXDV binds d(T2AG3)4 with a stoichiometry of two drug molecules per quadruplex, with these binding reactions being coupled to the destacking of adenine residues from the terminal G-tetrads. HXDV binding to d(T2AG3)4 does not alter the length of the quadruplex. These collective observations are indicative of a nonintercalative 'terminal capping' mode of interaction in which one HXDV molecule binds to each end of the quadruplex. The binding of HXDV to d(T2AG3)4 is entropy driven, with this entropic driving force reflecting contributions from favorable drug-induced alterations in the configurational entropy of the host quadruplex as well as in net hydration. The 'terminal capping' mode of binding revealed by our studies may prove to be a general feature of the interactions between oxazole-containing macrocyclic ligands (including telomestatin) and intramolecular DNA quadruplexes.

Several G-rich oligodeoxynucleotides (ODNs), which are capable of forming G-quadruplexes, have been shown to exhibit antiproliferative activity against tumor cell lines and antitumor activity in nude mice carrying prostate and breast tumor xenografts. However, the molecular basis for their antitumor activity remains unclear. In the current study, we showed that a variety of telomeric G-tail oligodeoxynucleotides (TG-ODNs) exhibited antiproliferative activity against many tumor cells in culture. Systematic mutational analysis of the TG-ODNs suggests that the antiproliferative activity depends on the G-quadruplex conformation of these TG-ODNs. TG-ODNs were also shown to induce poly(ADP-ribose) polymerase-1 cleavage, phosphatidylserine flipping, and caspase activation, indicative of induction of apoptosis. TG-ODN-induced apoptosis was largely ataxia telangiectasia mutated (ATM) dependent. Furthermore, TG-ODN-induced apoptosis was inhibited by the c-Jun NH(2)-terminal kinase (JNK) inhibitor SP600125. Indeed, TG-ODNs were shown to activate the JNK pathway in an ATM-dependent manner as evidenced by elevated phosphorylation of JNK and c-Jun. Interestingly, a number of G-quadruplex ODNs (GQ-ODN) derived from nontelomeric sequences also induced ATM/JNK-dependent apoptosis, suggesting a possible common mechanism of tumor cell killing by GQ-ODNs.

The terbenzimidazoles are a class of anticancer agents that bind in the DNA minor groove. These compounds also exhibit a propensity for self-association, which can potentially impact their cellular bioavailabilities and activities. We have explored this possibility by using a broad range of biophysical and cytological techniques to characterize the self-association and cellular uptake properties of two terbenzimidazole analogues, 5-phenylterbenzimidazole (5PTB) and 5-phenyl-2'-(indolo-6-yl)bibenzimidazole (5P2'IBB). Concentration- and temperature-dependent fluorescence spectroscopy, dynamic light scattering, and transmission electron microscopy studies reveal that 5PTB and 5P2'IBB exhibit differing self-association properties. In this connection, 5PTB exhibits an enhanced propensity for self-association and forms larger and more stable aggregates than 5P2'IBB. In addition, the net uptake of 5PTB into human lymphoblast cells is diminished relative to that of 5P2'IBB. These observations suggest that the self-association properties of terbenzimidazoles modulate the cellular bioavailabilities of the compounds, with enhanced self-association propensity and aggregate size leading to reduced cellular bioavailability.

The synthesis of 24-membered macrocycles containing four, six, and seven oxazole moieties is described. Selected compounds were evaluated for their ability to specifically bind and stabilize G-quadruplex DNA and for cytotoxic activity. An unexpected oxidative cleavage reaction afforded a macrocyclic imide that was also evaluated for G-quadruplex stabilizing and cytotoxic activity.

The binding of aminoglycoside antibiotics to a broad range of macromolecular targets is coupled to protonation of one or more of the amino groups that typify this class of drugs. Determining how and to what extent this linkage influences the energetics of the aminoglycoside-macromolecule binding reaction requires a detailed understanding of the thermodynamics associated with the protonation equilibria of the aminoglycoside amino groups. In recognition of this need, a calorimetric- and NMR-based approach for obtaining the requisite thermodynamic information is presented using paromomycin as the model aminoglycoside. Temperature- and pH-dependent 15N NMR studies provide pK(a) values for the five paromomycin amino groups, as well as the temperature dependence of these pK(a) values. These studies also indicate that the observed pK(a) values associated with the free base form of paromomycin are lower in magnitude than the corresponding values associated with the sulfate salt form of the drug. This difference in pK(a) is due to drug interactions with the sulfate counterions at the high drug concentrations (> or = 812 mM) used in the 15N NMR studies. Isothermal titration calorimetry studies conducted at drug concentrations < or = 45 microM reveal that the extent of paromomycin protonation linked to the binding of the drug to its pharmacologically relevant target, the 16 S rRNA A-site, is consistent with the pK(a) values of the free base and not the sulfate salt form of the drug. Temperature- and pH-dependent isothermal titration calorimetry studies yield exothermic enthalpy changes (deltaH) for protonation of the five paromomycin amino groups, as well as positive heat capacity changes (deltaC(p)) for three of the five amino groups. Regarded as a whole, the results presented here represent an important first step toward establishing a thermodynamic database that can be used to predict how aminoglycoside-macromolecule binding energetics will be influenced by conditions such as temperature, pH, and ionic strength. Such a predictive capability is a critical component of any drug design strategy.

Steady-state and time-resolved fluorescence techniques have been used to characterize the energetics and dynamics associated with the interaction of an E. coli 16 S rRNA A-site model oligonucleotide and four aminoglycoside antibiotics that exhibit a broad range of antibacterial activity. The results of these characterizations suggest that aminoglycoside-induced reduction in the mobility of an adenine residue at position 1492 of the rRNA A-site is a more important determinant of antibacterial activity than drug affinity for the A-site. This observation is consistent with a recently proposed model for the mechanism of protein synthesis inhibition by aminoglycosides that invokes a drug-induced alteration in the conformational equilibrium of the rRNA A-site (centered around the conserved adenine residues at positions 1492 and 1493), which, in turn, promotes an enhanced interaction between the rRNA and the minihelix formed by the tRNA anticodon and the mRNA codon, even when the anticodon is noncognate. Regarded as a whole, the results reported here indicate that the rational design of antibiotics that target the 16 S rRNA A-site requires consideration of not only the structure and energetics of the drug-RNA complex but also the dynamics associated with that complex.

2-Deoxystreptamine (2-DOS) aminoglycoside antibiotics exert their antimicrobial activities by targeting the decoding region A site of the rRNA and inhibiting protein synthesis. A prokaryotic specificity of action is critical to therapeutic utility of 2-DOS aminoglycosides as antibiotics. Here, isothermal titration calorimetry (ITC) and fluorescence studies are presented that provide insight into the molecular basis for this prokaryotic specificity of action. Specifically, the rRNA binding properties of the 2-DOS aminoglycosides paromomycin and G418 (geneticin) are compared, using both human and Escherichia coli rRNA A site model oligonucleotides as drug targets. Paromomycin and G418 differ with respect to their specificities of action, with only paromomycin exhibiting a specificity for prokaryotic versus human ribosomes. G418 binds to both the human and E. coli rRNA A sites with a markedly lower affinity than paromomycin, with the affinities of both drugs for the human rRNA A site being lower than those they exhibit for the E. coli rRNA A site. Paromomycin induces the destacking of the base at position 1492 (by E. coli numbering) upon binding to the E. coli rRNA A site, but not the human rRNA A site. By contrast, the binding of G418 induces the destacking of base 1492 when either rRNA A site serves as the drug target. In the aggregate, these results suggest that binding-induced base destacking at the rRNA A site is a critical factor in determining the prokaryotic specificity of aminoglycoside action, with binding affinity for the A site being of secondary importance.

Isothermal titration calorimetry (ITC), computational, and osmotic stress techniques have been used to characterize the changes in heat capacity, solvent-accessible surface, and hydration that accompany the binding of the aminoglycoside paromomycin to both prokaryotic and eukaryotic rRNA A-site model oligonucleotides. Regarded as a whole, the results of these studies suggest that the intrinsic heat capacity change (DeltaC(p)) for the binding of paromomycin to each rRNA A-site is near zero, with the negative DeltaC(p) observed for the binding of the drug to the prokaryotic rRNA A-site being dictated by the coupled destacking of the adenine residues at positions 1492 and 1493. In this connection, DeltaC(p) provides a useful calorimetric signature for assessing the relative impacts of novel and existing A-site targeting ligands on rRNA conformation, which, in turn, should provide a useful analytical tool for facilitating the drug design process, since aminoglycoside-induced destacking of A1492 and A1493 is thought to be a determining factor in the mistranslational and antimicrobial activities of the drugs.

RNA degradation via the ribonuclease H (RNase H) activity of human immunodeficiency virus type I (HIV-1) reverse transcriptase (RT) is a critical component of the reverse transcription process. In this connection, mutations of RT that inactivate RNase H activity result in noninfectious virus particles. Thus, interfering with the RNase H activity of RT represents a potential vehicle for the inhibition of HIV-1 replication. Here, we demonstrate an approach for inhibiting the RNase H activity of HIV-1 RT by targeting its RNA.DNA hybrid substrates. Specifically, we show that the binding of the 4,5-disubstituted 2-deoxystreptamine aminoglycosides, neomycin, paromomycin, and ribostamycin, to two different chimeric RNA-DNA duplexes, which mimic two distinct intermediates in the reverse transcription process, inhibits specific RT-mediated RNase H cleavage, with this inhibition being competitive in nature. UV melting and isothermal titration calorimetry studies reveal a correlation between the relative binding affinities of the three drugs for each of the chimeric RNA-DNA host duplexes and the relative extents to which the drugs inhibit RT-mediated RNase H cleavage of the duplexes. Significantly, this correlation also extends to the relative efficacies with which the drugs inhibit HIV-1 replication. In the aggregate, our results highlight a potential strategy for AIDS chemotherapy that should not be compromised by the unusual genetic diversity of HIV-1.