Efficient, non‐toxic anion transport by synthetic carriers in cells and epithelia

Hongyu Li, Hennie Valkenier, Luke W Judd, Peter R Brotherhood, Sabir Hussain, James A Cooper, Ondřej Jurček, Hazel A Sparkes, David N Sheppard, Anthony P Davis

Research output: Contribution to journalArticle (Academic Journal)peer-review

144 Citations (Scopus)
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Abstract

Transmembrane anion transporters (anionophores) have potential for new modes of biological activity, including therapeutic applications. In particular they might replace the activity of defective anion channels in conditions such as cystic fibrosis. However, data on the biological effects of anionophores are scarce, and it remains uncertain whether such molecules are fundamentally toxic. Here, we report a biological study of an extensive series of powerful anion carriers. Fifteen anionophores were assayed in single cells by monitoring anion transport in real time through fluorescence emission from halide-sensitive yellow fluorescent protein. A bis-(p-nitrophenyl)ureidodecalin shows especially promising activity, including deliverability, potency and persistence. Electrophysiological tests show strong effects in epithelia, close to those of natural anion channels. Toxicity assays yield negative results in three cell lines, suggesting that promotion of anion transport may not be deleterious to cells. We therefore conclude that synthetic anion carriers are realistic candidates for further investigation as treatments for cystic fibrosis.
Original languageEnglish
Pages (from-to)24-32
Number of pages9
JournalNature Chemistry
Volume8
Issue number1
Early online date2 Nov 2015
DOIs
Publication statusPublished - Jan 2016

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