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Li X, Chen X, Yang FY, Shu T, Jiang L, He B, Tang M, Li X, Fang D, Jose PA, Han Y, Yang Y, Zeng C. Effect of mitochondrial translocator protein TSPO on LPS-induced cardiac dysfunction. J Adv Res 2024:S2090-1232(24)00437-5. [PMID: 39389308 DOI: 10.1016/j.jare.2024.10.004] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/08/2024] [Revised: 10/03/2024] [Accepted: 10/07/2024] [Indexed: 10/12/2024] Open
Abstract
INTRODUCTION Sepsis-induced cardiac dysfunction is one of the most serious complications of sepsis. The mitochondrial translocator protein (TSPO), a mitochondrial outer membrane protein, is widely used as a diagnostic marker of inflammation-related diseases and can also lead to the release of inflammatory components. However, whether TSPO has a therapeutic effect on sepsis-induced cardiac dysfunction is unclear. OBJECTIVES The aim of this study is to investigate the involvement of TSPO in the pathogenesis of sepsis-induced cardiac dysfunction and elucidate its underlying mechanism, as well as develop therapeutic strategies targeting TSPO for the prevention and treatment of sepsis-induced cardiac dysfunction. METHODS The sepsis-induced cardiac dysfunction model was established by intraperitoneal injection of lipopolysaccharide (LPS)in C57BL/6 mice (LPS-induced cardiac dysfunction, LICD). TSPO knockout mice were constructed,and the effects of TSPO was detected by survival rate, echocardiography, HE staining, mitochondrial electron microscopy, TUNEL staining. TSPO-binding proteins were identified by co-immunoprecipitation and mass spectrometry. The mechanisms underlying between TSPO and voltage-dependent anion channel (VDAC) was studied through western blot and immunofluorescence. Proteolysis-Targeting Chimeras (PROTAC) technology was used to construct TSPO-PROTAC molecules that can degrade TSPO. RESULTS Our present study found that LPS increased cardiac TSPO expression. Knockout of TSPO in C57BL/6 mice with LICD attenuated the cardiac pathology, mitochondrial dysfunction, and apoptosis of cardiomyocytes and significantly improved cardiac function and survival rate. Co-immunoprecipitation and mass spectrometry identified VDAC as a TSPO binding protein.Down-regulation of TSPO reduced PKA-mediated VDAC phosphorylation and VDAC oligomerization, ameliorated mitochondrial function, and reduced cardiomyocyte apoptosis. The study has clinical translational potential, because administration of TSPO-PROTAC to degrade TSPO improved cardiac function in mice with LICD. CONCLUSION This study elucidated the effect of TSPO in LICD, providing a new therapeutic strategy to down-regulate TSPO by administration of TSPO-PROTAC for the prevention and treatment of LICD.
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Affiliation(s)
- Xingyue Li
- School of Materials Science and Engineering, Southwest Jiaotong University, Chengdu Sichuan, PR China; Department of Cardiology, The General Hospital of Western Theater Command, Chengdu, Sichuan, PR China
| | - Xiao Chen
- Department of Geriatrics, General Hospital of Western Theater Command, Chengdu, Sichuan, PR China
| | - Feng-Yuan Yang
- Department of Nephrology, General Hospital of Western Theater Command, Chengdu, Sichuan, PR China
| | - Tingting Shu
- Department of Cardiology, Daping Hospital, The Third Military Medical University (Army Medical University), Chongqing, PR China; Key Laboratory of Geriatric Cardiovascular and Cerebrovascular Disease Research, Ministry of Education of China, Chongqing Key Laboratory for Hypertension Research, Chongqing Cardiovascular Clinical Research Center, Chongqing Institute of Cardiology, Chongqing, PR China
| | - Lintao Jiang
- Department of Cardiology, Daping Hospital, The Third Military Medical University (Army Medical University), Chongqing, PR China; Key Laboratory of Geriatric Cardiovascular and Cerebrovascular Disease Research, Ministry of Education of China, Chongqing Key Laboratory for Hypertension Research, Chongqing Cardiovascular Clinical Research Center, Chongqing Institute of Cardiology, Chongqing, PR China
| | - Bo He
- Department of Cardiology, Daping Hospital, The Third Military Medical University (Army Medical University), Chongqing, PR China; Key Laboratory of Geriatric Cardiovascular and Cerebrovascular Disease Research, Ministry of Education of China, Chongqing Key Laboratory for Hypertension Research, Chongqing Cardiovascular Clinical Research Center, Chongqing Institute of Cardiology, Chongqing, PR China
| | - Ming Tang
- Department of Cardiology, Daping Hospital, The Third Military Medical University (Army Medical University), Chongqing, PR China; Key Laboratory of Geriatric Cardiovascular and Cerebrovascular Disease Research, Ministry of Education of China, Chongqing Key Laboratory for Hypertension Research, Chongqing Cardiovascular Clinical Research Center, Chongqing Institute of Cardiology, Chongqing, PR China
| | - Xingbing Li
- Department of Cardiology, Daping Hospital, The Third Military Medical University (Army Medical University), Chongqing, PR China; Key Laboratory of Geriatric Cardiovascular and Cerebrovascular Disease Research, Ministry of Education of China, Chongqing Key Laboratory for Hypertension Research, Chongqing Cardiovascular Clinical Research Center, Chongqing Institute of Cardiology, Chongqing, PR China
| | - Dandong Fang
- Department of Critical Care Medicine, Jinling Hospital, Affiliated Hospital of Medical School, Nanjing University, Nanjing 210000, PR China
| | - Pedro A Jose
- The George Washington University School of Medicine & Health Sciences
| | - Yu Han
- Department of Cardiology, Daping Hospital, The Third Military Medical University (Army Medical University), Chongqing, PR China; Key Laboratory of Geriatric Cardiovascular and Cerebrovascular Disease Research, Ministry of Education of China, Chongqing Key Laboratory for Hypertension Research, Chongqing Cardiovascular Clinical Research Center, Chongqing Institute of Cardiology, Chongqing, PR China.
| | - Yongjian Yang
- School of Materials Science and Engineering, Southwest Jiaotong University, Chengdu Sichuan, PR China; Department of Cardiology, The General Hospital of Western Theater Command, Chengdu, Sichuan, PR China.
| | - Chunyu Zeng
- Department of Cardiology, Daping Hospital, The Third Military Medical University (Army Medical University), Chongqing, PR China; Key Laboratory of Geriatric Cardiovascular and Cerebrovascular Disease Research, Ministry of Education of China, Chongqing Key Laboratory for Hypertension Research, Chongqing Cardiovascular Clinical Research Center, Chongqing Institute of Cardiology, Chongqing, PR China; State Key Laboratory of Trauma, Burns and Combined Injury, Daping Hospital, The Third Military Medical University,Chongqing, PR China.
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Xiao Y, Guo X, Zhang W, Ma L, Ren K. DNA Nanotechnology for Application in Targeted Protein Degradation. ACS Biomater Sci Eng 2024. [PMID: 39367877 DOI: 10.1021/acsbiomaterials.4c01351] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/07/2024]
Abstract
DNA is a kind of flexible and versatile biomaterial for constructing nanostructures and nanodevices. Due to high biocompatibility and programmability and easy modification and fabrication, DNA nanotechnology has emerged as a powerful tool for application in intracellular targeted protein degradation. In this review, we summarize the recent advances in the design and mechanism of targeted protein degradation technologies such as protein hydrolysis targeted chimeras, lysosomal targeted chimeras, and autophagy based protein degradation. Subsequently, we introduce the DNA nanotechnologies of DNA cascade circuits, DNA nanostructures, and dynamic machines. Moreover, we present the latest developments in DNA nanotechnologies in targeted protein degradation. Finally, the vision and challenges are discussed.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yang Xiao
- School of Chemistry and Chemical Engineering, Nanjing University of Science and Technology, Nanjing 210094, China
- School of Environmental and Biological Engineering, Nanjing University of Science and Technology, Nanjing 210094, P.R. China
| | - Xinyi Guo
- School of Chemistry and Chemical Engineering, Nanjing University of Science and Technology, Nanjing 210094, China
- School of Environmental and Biological Engineering, Nanjing University of Science and Technology, Nanjing 210094, P.R. China
| | - Weiwei Zhang
- School of Chemistry and Chemical Engineering, Nanjing University of Science and Technology, Nanjing 210094, China
| | - Lequn Ma
- School of Chemistry and Chemical Engineering, Nanjing University of Science and Technology, Nanjing 210094, China
| | - Kewei Ren
- School of Chemistry and Chemical Engineering, Nanjing University of Science and Technology, Nanjing 210094, China
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Yan S, Zhang G, Luo W, Xu M, Peng R, Du Z, Liu Y, Bai Z, Xiao X, Qin S. PROTAC technology: From drug development to probe technology for target deconvolution. Eur J Med Chem 2024; 276:116725. [PMID: 39083982 DOI: 10.1016/j.ejmech.2024.116725] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/13/2024] [Revised: 07/19/2024] [Accepted: 07/27/2024] [Indexed: 08/02/2024]
Abstract
Drug development remains a critical focus within the global pharmaceutical industry. To date, more than 80 % of disease targets are considered difficult to target. The emergence of PROTAC technology has, to some extent, alleviated this challenge. Since introduction, PROTAC technology has evolved through the peptide E3 ligase ligand phase and the small molecule E3 ligase ligand phase. Currently, multiple PROTAC molecules are in the clinical research phase, showing promising potential for addressing drug resistance, disease recurrence, and intractable targets. Target deconvolution is a crucial step in the drug discovery and development process. Due to the exceptional targeting ability and specificity of PROTAC, it is widely used and promoted as an innovative technology for discovering new drug targets, leading to significant breakthroughs. The use of PROTAC probe requires only a catalytic dose and weak interaction with the target protein to achieve target degradation. Thus, it offers substantial advantages over traditional probes, particularly in identifying new targets that are low-abundance or difficult to target. This review provides a comprehensive overview of the advancements made by PROTAC technology in drug development and drug target discovery, while also systematically reviewing the workflow of PROTAC probe. With the ongoing development of PROTAC technology, PROTAC probe is poised to become a key research area in future drug target deconvolution.
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Affiliation(s)
- Si Yan
- National Engineering Research Center of Personalized Diagnostic and Therapeutic Technology, Research Center for Precision Medication of Chinese Medicine, FuRong Laboratory, Hunan University of Chinese Medicine, Changsha, PR China; Hubei Engineering Research Center of Traditional Chinese Medicine of South Hubei Province, School of Pharmacy, Xianning Medical College, Hubei University of Science and Technology, Xianning, PR China; Department of Hepatology, China Military Institute of Chinese Materia, The Fifth Medical Center of PLA General Hospital, Beijing, PR China
| | - Guangshuai Zhang
- National Engineering Research Center of Personalized Diagnostic and Therapeutic Technology, Research Center for Precision Medication of Chinese Medicine, FuRong Laboratory, Hunan University of Chinese Medicine, Changsha, PR China; Hubei Engineering Research Center of Traditional Chinese Medicine of South Hubei Province, School of Pharmacy, Xianning Medical College, Hubei University of Science and Technology, Xianning, PR China; Department of Hepatology, China Military Institute of Chinese Materia, The Fifth Medical Center of PLA General Hospital, Beijing, PR China
| | - Wei Luo
- National Engineering Research Center of Personalized Diagnostic and Therapeutic Technology, Research Center for Precision Medication of Chinese Medicine, FuRong Laboratory, Hunan University of Chinese Medicine, Changsha, PR China; Hubei Engineering Research Center of Traditional Chinese Medicine of South Hubei Province, School of Pharmacy, Xianning Medical College, Hubei University of Science and Technology, Xianning, PR China
| | - Mengwei Xu
- National Engineering Research Center of Personalized Diagnostic and Therapeutic Technology, Research Center for Precision Medication of Chinese Medicine, FuRong Laboratory, Hunan University of Chinese Medicine, Changsha, PR China; Hubei Engineering Research Center of Traditional Chinese Medicine of South Hubei Province, School of Pharmacy, Xianning Medical College, Hubei University of Science and Technology, Xianning, PR China
| | - Rui Peng
- National Engineering Research Center of Personalized Diagnostic and Therapeutic Technology, Research Center for Precision Medication of Chinese Medicine, FuRong Laboratory, Hunan University of Chinese Medicine, Changsha, PR China; Hubei Engineering Research Center of Traditional Chinese Medicine of South Hubei Province, School of Pharmacy, Xianning Medical College, Hubei University of Science and Technology, Xianning, PR China
| | - Ziwei Du
- Hubei Engineering Research Center of Traditional Chinese Medicine of South Hubei Province, School of Pharmacy, Xianning Medical College, Hubei University of Science and Technology, Xianning, PR China
| | - Yan Liu
- National Engineering Research Center of Personalized Diagnostic and Therapeutic Technology, Research Center for Precision Medication of Chinese Medicine, FuRong Laboratory, Hunan University of Chinese Medicine, Changsha, PR China; Hubei Engineering Research Center of Traditional Chinese Medicine of South Hubei Province, School of Pharmacy, Xianning Medical College, Hubei University of Science and Technology, Xianning, PR China
| | - Zhaofang Bai
- National Engineering Research Center of Personalized Diagnostic and Therapeutic Technology, Research Center for Precision Medication of Chinese Medicine, FuRong Laboratory, Hunan University of Chinese Medicine, Changsha, PR China; Department of Hepatology, China Military Institute of Chinese Materia, The Fifth Medical Center of PLA General Hospital, Beijing, PR China.
| | - Xiaohe Xiao
- National Engineering Research Center of Personalized Diagnostic and Therapeutic Technology, Research Center for Precision Medication of Chinese Medicine, FuRong Laboratory, Hunan University of Chinese Medicine, Changsha, PR China; Department of Hepatology, China Military Institute of Chinese Materia, The Fifth Medical Center of PLA General Hospital, Beijing, PR China.
| | - Shuanglin Qin
- National Engineering Research Center of Personalized Diagnostic and Therapeutic Technology, Research Center for Precision Medication of Chinese Medicine, FuRong Laboratory, Hunan University of Chinese Medicine, Changsha, PR China; Hubei Engineering Research Center of Traditional Chinese Medicine of South Hubei Province, School of Pharmacy, Xianning Medical College, Hubei University of Science and Technology, Xianning, PR China; Department of Hepatology, China Military Institute of Chinese Materia, The Fifth Medical Center of PLA General Hospital, Beijing, PR China.
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Duan M, Ren K, Chen X, Chang Y, Lv Z, Wang Z, Wu S, Duan N. Discovery and design of an aptamer that inhibits Shiga toxin type 2 activity by blocking Stx2 B subunit-Gb3 interaction. Int J Biol Macromol 2024; 277:134365. [PMID: 39089540 DOI: 10.1016/j.ijbiomac.2024.134365] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/26/2024] [Revised: 07/24/2024] [Accepted: 07/29/2024] [Indexed: 08/04/2024]
Abstract
Shiga toxin (Stx) is the definitive virulence factor of Stx-producing Escherichia coli. This bacterial pathogen can contaminate food and threaten human health. Binding of the B subunit of Stx to the specific receptor globotriaosylceramide (Gb3) on the cell membrane is a key step for Stx to enter cells and exert its toxicity. In this work, we aimed to screen for aptamers targeting the Stx 2 B subunit, to interfere with the interaction of Stx2 B subunit and Gb3, thereby blocking Stx2 from entering cells. The results of molecular simulation docking, competitive ELISA, flow cytometry, and laser confocal microscopy confirmed that aptamers S4, S5, and S6 can mediate the interaction between Stx2 B subunit and Gb3. To further improve the inhibition effect, multiple aptamer sequences were tailored and were fused. The bivalent modification aptamer B2 inhibited Stx2 toxicity to Vero cells with inhibition rate of 53 %. Furthermore, the aptamer B2 reduced Stx2 damage to the mice, indicating that it has great potential to interfere with Stx2 binding to Gb3 receptors in vivo and in vitro. This work provides a theoretical and experimental basis for the application of aptamers in the inhibition of Stx2 toxicity and control of food hazards.
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Affiliation(s)
- Mengxia Duan
- State Key Laboratory of Food Science and Resources, Jiangnan University, Wuxi 214122, China; School of Food Science and Technology, Jiangnan University, Wuxi 214122, China
| | - Kexin Ren
- State Key Laboratory of Food Science and Resources, Jiangnan University, Wuxi 214122, China; School of Food Science and Technology, Jiangnan University, Wuxi 214122, China
| | - Xiaowan Chen
- State Key Laboratory of Food Science and Resources, Jiangnan University, Wuxi 214122, China; School of Food Science and Technology, Jiangnan University, Wuxi 214122, China
| | - Yuting Chang
- State Key Laboratory of Food Science and Resources, Jiangnan University, Wuxi 214122, China; School of Food Science and Technology, Jiangnan University, Wuxi 214122, China
| | - Ziyu Lv
- State Key Laboratory of Food Science and Resources, Jiangnan University, Wuxi 214122, China; School of Food Science and Technology, Jiangnan University, Wuxi 214122, China
| | - Zhouping Wang
- State Key Laboratory of Food Science and Resources, Jiangnan University, Wuxi 214122, China; School of Food Science and Technology, Jiangnan University, Wuxi 214122, China; International Joint Laboratory on Food Safety, Jiangnan University, Wuxi 214122, China
| | - Shijia Wu
- State Key Laboratory of Food Science and Resources, Jiangnan University, Wuxi 214122, China; School of Food Science and Technology, Jiangnan University, Wuxi 214122, China; International Joint Laboratory on Food Safety, Jiangnan University, Wuxi 214122, China
| | - Nuo Duan
- State Key Laboratory of Food Science and Resources, Jiangnan University, Wuxi 214122, China; School of Food Science and Technology, Jiangnan University, Wuxi 214122, China; International Joint Laboratory on Food Safety, Jiangnan University, Wuxi 214122, China.
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Venkatesan J, Murugan D, Lakshminarayanan K, Smith AR, Vasanthakumari Thirumalaiswamy H, Kandhasamy H, Zender B, Zheng G, Rangasamy L. Powering up targeted protein degradation through active and passive tumour-targeting strategies: Current and future scopes. Pharmacol Ther 2024; 263:108725. [PMID: 39322067 DOI: 10.1016/j.pharmthera.2024.108725] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/01/2024] [Revised: 08/31/2024] [Accepted: 09/16/2024] [Indexed: 09/27/2024]
Abstract
Targeted protein degradation (TPD) has emerged as a prominent and vital strategy for therapeutic intervention of cancers and other diseases. One such approach involves the exploration of proteolysis targeting chimeras (PROTACs) for the selective elimination of disease-causing proteins through the innate ubiquitin-proteasome pathway. Due to the unprecedented achievements of various PROTAC molecules in clinical trials, researchers have moved towards other physiological protein degradation approaches for the targeted degradation of abnormal proteins, including lysosome-targeting chimeras (LYTACs), autophagy-targeting chimeras (AUTACs), autophagosome-tethering compounds (ATTECs), molecular glue degraders, and other derivatives for their precise mode of action. Despite numerous advantages, these molecules face challenges in solubility, permeability, bioavailability, and potential off-target or on-target off-tissue effects. Thus, an urgent need arises to direct the action of these degrader molecules specifically against cancer cells, leaving the proteins of non-cancerous cells intact. Recent advancements in TPD have led to innovative delivery methods that ensure the degraders are delivered in a cell- or tissue-specific manner to achieve cell/tissue-selective degradation of target proteins. Such receptor-specific active delivery or nano-based passive delivery of the PROTACs could be achieved by conjugating them with targeting ligands (antibodies, aptamers, peptides, or small molecule ligands) or nano-based carriers. These techniques help to achieve precise delivery of PROTAC payloads to the target sites. Notably, the successful entry of a Degrader Antibody Conjugate (DAC), ORM-5029, into a phase 1 clinical trial underscores the therapeutic potential of these conjugates, including LYTAC-antibody conjugates (LACs) and aptamer-based targeted protein degraders. Further, using bispecific antibody-based degraders (AbTACs) and delivering the PROTAC pre-fused with E3 ligases provides a solution for cell type-specific protein degradation. Here, we highlighted the current advancements and challenges associated with developing new tumour-specific protein degrader approaches and summarized their potential as single agents or combination therapeutics for cancer.
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Affiliation(s)
- Janarthanan Venkatesan
- Department of Chemistry, School of Advanced Sciences (SAS), Vellore Institute of Technology (VIT), Vellore 632014, India; Drug Discovery Unit (DDU), Centre for Biomaterials, Cellular and Molecular Theranostics (CBCMT), Vellore Institute of Technology (VIT), Vellore 632014, India
| | - Dhanashree Murugan
- Drug Discovery Unit (DDU), Centre for Biomaterials, Cellular and Molecular Theranostics (CBCMT), Vellore Institute of Technology (VIT), Vellore 632014, India; School of Biosciences and Technology (SBST), Vellore Institute of Technology (VIT), Vellore 632014, India
| | - Kalaiarasu Lakshminarayanan
- Department of Chemistry, School of Advanced Sciences (SAS), Vellore Institute of Technology (VIT), Vellore 632014, India; Drug Discovery Unit (DDU), Centre for Biomaterials, Cellular and Molecular Theranostics (CBCMT), Vellore Institute of Technology (VIT), Vellore 632014, India
| | - Alexis R Smith
- Department of Medicinal Chemistry, College of Pharmacy, University of Florida, Gainesville, FL 32610, USA; University of Florida Health Cancer Center, University of Florida, Gainesville, FL 32610, USA
| | - Harashkumar Vasanthakumari Thirumalaiswamy
- Department of Chemistry, School of Advanced Sciences (SAS), Vellore Institute of Technology (VIT), Vellore 632014, India; Drug Discovery Unit (DDU), Centre for Biomaterials, Cellular and Molecular Theranostics (CBCMT), Vellore Institute of Technology (VIT), Vellore 632014, India
| | - Hariprasath Kandhasamy
- Department of Chemistry, School of Advanced Sciences (SAS), Vellore Institute of Technology (VIT), Vellore 632014, India
| | - Boutheina Zender
- Department of Biomedical Engineering, Bahçeşehir University, Istanbul 34353, Turkey
| | - Guangrong Zheng
- Department of Medicinal Chemistry, College of Pharmacy, University of Florida, Gainesville, FL 32610, USA; University of Florida Health Cancer Center, University of Florida, Gainesville, FL 32610, USA.
| | - Loganathan Rangasamy
- Drug Discovery Unit (DDU), Centre for Biomaterials, Cellular and Molecular Theranostics (CBCMT), Vellore Institute of Technology (VIT), Vellore 632014, India.
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Zhang X, Wang W, Dong G, Song Y, Zhai X, Sheng C. Discovery of a potent and selective JAK1-targeting PROTAC degrader with anti-tumor activities. Bioorg Med Chem Lett 2024; 109:129838. [PMID: 38838918 DOI: 10.1016/j.bmcl.2024.129838] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/12/2024] [Revised: 05/26/2024] [Accepted: 06/02/2024] [Indexed: 06/07/2024]
Abstract
Aberrant activation of the JAK-STAT pathway is evident in various human diseases including cancers. Proteolysis targeting chimeras (PROTACs) provide an attractive strategy for developing novel JAK-targeting drugs. Herein, a series of CRBN-directed JAK-targeting PROTACs were designed and synthesized utilizing a JAK1/JAK2 dual inhibitor-momelotinib as the warhead. The most promising compound 10c exhibited both good enzymatic potency and cellular antiproliferative effects. Western blot analysis revealed that compound 10c effectively and selectively degraded JAK1 in a proteasome-dependent manner (DC50 = 214 nM). Moreover, PROTAC 10c significantly suppressed JAK1 and its key downstream signaling. Together, compound 10c may serve as a novel lead compound for antitumor drug discovery.
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Affiliation(s)
- Xiaoyu Zhang
- Key Laboratory of Structure-Based Drug Design and Discovery, Ministry of Education, School of Pharmaceutical Engineering, Shenyang Pharmaceutical University, Shenyang 110016, PR China
| | - Wei Wang
- The Center for Basic Research and Innovation of Medicine and Pharmacy (MOE), School of Pharmacy, Second Military Medical University (Naval Medical University), 325 Guohe Road, Shanghai 200433, PR China
| | - Guoqiang Dong
- The Center for Basic Research and Innovation of Medicine and Pharmacy (MOE), School of Pharmacy, Second Military Medical University (Naval Medical University), 325 Guohe Road, Shanghai 200433, PR China
| | - Yingqi Song
- School of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Hainan University, Haikou 570228, PR China
| | - Xin Zhai
- Key Laboratory of Structure-Based Drug Design and Discovery, Ministry of Education, School of Pharmaceutical Engineering, Shenyang Pharmaceutical University, Shenyang 110016, PR China.
| | - Chunquan Sheng
- The Center for Basic Research and Innovation of Medicine and Pharmacy (MOE), School of Pharmacy, Second Military Medical University (Naval Medical University), 325 Guohe Road, Shanghai 200433, PR China.
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Kong Y, Lan T, Wang L, Gong C, Lv W, Zhang H, Zhou C, Sun X, Liu W, Huang H, Weng X, Cai C, Peng W, Zhang M, Jiang D, Yang C, Liu X, Rao Y, Chen C. BRD4-specific PROTAC inhibits basal-like breast cancer partially through downregulating KLF5 expression. Oncogene 2024; 43:2914-2926. [PMID: 39164524 PMCID: PMC11420083 DOI: 10.1038/s41388-024-03121-1] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/22/2023] [Revised: 07/24/2024] [Accepted: 07/31/2024] [Indexed: 08/22/2024]
Abstract
Interest in the use of proteolysis-targeting chimeras (PROTACs) in cancer therapy has increased in recent years. Targeting bromodomain and extra terminal domain (BET) proteins, especially bromodomain-containing protein 4 (BRD4), has shown inhibitory effects on basal-like breast cancer (BLBC). However, the bioavailability of BRD4 PROTACs is restricted by their non-selective biodegradability and low tumor-targeting ability. We demonstrated that 6b (BRD4 PROTAC) suppresses BLBC cell growth by targeting BRD4, but not BRD2 and BRD3, for cereblon (CRBN)-mediated ubiquitination and proteasomal degradation. Compound 6b also inhibited expression of Krüppel-like factor 5 (KLF5) transcription factor, a key oncoprotein in BLBC, controlled by BRD4-mediated super-enhancers. Moreover, 6b inhibited HCC1806 tumor growth in a xenograft mouse model. The combination of 6b and KLF5 inhibitors showed additive effects on BLBC. These results suggest that BRD4-specific PROTAC can effectively inhibit BLBC by downregulating KLF5, and that 6b has potential as a novel therapeutic drug for BLBC.
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Grants
- This study was supported in part by grants National Key Research and Development Program of China (2020YFA0112300 to Chen, C. 2020YFE0202200, 2021YFA1300200 to Rao, Y.), The National Nature Science Foundation of China (U2102203 and 81830087 to Chen, C., 81402206, 82273216 and 81773149 to Kong, Y., 82125034 to Rao, Y.), Biomedical Projects of Yunnan Key Science and Technology Program (202302AA310046),Yunnan Fundamental Research Projects (202101AS070050), and Yunnan Revitalization Talent Support Program (Yunling Shcolar Project to CC). Yunnan (Kunming) Academician Expert Workstation (grant No. YSZJGZZ-2020025 to CC). Shenzhen Science and Technology program (RCYX20221008092911040 to Kong, Y.), Shenzhen Municipal Government of China (JCYJ20210324103603011 to Kong, Y.), Shenzhen Planned Projects for Post-doctors Stand out Research Funds to Kong, Y., Guangdong Basic and Applied Basic Research Foundation (2022A1515220051 to Kong, Y.).
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Affiliation(s)
- Yanjie Kong
- Pathology Department, The First Affiliated Hospital of Shenzhen University, Shenzhen Second People's Hospital, Shenzhen, China
| | - Tianlong Lan
- MOE Key Laboratory of Protein Sciences, School of Pharmaceutical Sciences, MOE Key Laboratory of Bioorganic Phosphorus Chemistry & Chemical Biology, Tsinghua University, Beijing, China
| | - Luzhen Wang
- Key Laboratory of Animal Models and Human Disease Mechanisms of the Chinese Academy of Sciences, KIZ-CUHK Joint Laboratory of Bioresources and Molecular Research in Common Diseases, Kunming Institute of Zoology, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Kunming, China
| | - Chen Gong
- Department of Urology, The Second Affiliated Hospital of Kunming Medical University, Kunming, China
| | - Wenxin Lv
- MOE Key Laboratory of Protein Sciences, School of Pharmaceutical Sciences, MOE Key Laboratory of Bioorganic Phosphorus Chemistry & Chemical Biology, Tsinghua University, Beijing, China
| | - Hailin Zhang
- Key Laboratory of Animal Models and Human Disease Mechanisms of the Chinese Academy of Sciences, KIZ-CUHK Joint Laboratory of Bioresources and Molecular Research in Common Diseases, Kunming Institute of Zoology, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Kunming, China
| | - Chengang Zhou
- Key Laboratory of Animal Models and Human Disease Mechanisms of the Chinese Academy of Sciences, KIZ-CUHK Joint Laboratory of Bioresources and Molecular Research in Common Diseases, Kunming Institute of Zoology, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Kunming, China
| | - Xiuyun Sun
- MOE Key Laboratory of Protein Sciences, School of Pharmaceutical Sciences, MOE Key Laboratory of Bioorganic Phosphorus Chemistry & Chemical Biology, Tsinghua University, Beijing, China
| | - Wenjing Liu
- The Third Affiliated Hospital, Kunming Medical University, Kunming, China
| | - Haihui Huang
- Pathology Department, The First Affiliated Hospital of Shenzhen University, Shenzhen Second People's Hospital, Shenzhen, China
| | - Xin Weng
- Pathology Department, The First Affiliated Hospital of Shenzhen University, Shenzhen Second People's Hospital, Shenzhen, China
| | - Chang Cai
- Pathology Department, The First Affiliated Hospital of Shenzhen University, Shenzhen Second People's Hospital, Shenzhen, China
| | - Wenfeng Peng
- Pathology Department, The First Affiliated Hospital of Shenzhen University, Shenzhen Second People's Hospital, Shenzhen, China
| | - Meng Zhang
- Pathology Department, The First Affiliated Hospital of Shenzhen University, Shenzhen Second People's Hospital, Shenzhen, China
| | - Dewei Jiang
- Key Laboratory of Animal Models and Human Disease Mechanisms of the Chinese Academy of Sciences, KIZ-CUHK Joint Laboratory of Bioresources and Molecular Research in Common Diseases, Kunming Institute of Zoology, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Kunming, China
| | - Chuanyu Yang
- Key Laboratory of Animal Models and Human Disease Mechanisms of the Chinese Academy of Sciences, KIZ-CUHK Joint Laboratory of Bioresources and Molecular Research in Common Diseases, Kunming Institute of Zoology, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Kunming, China
| | - Xia Liu
- Pathology Department, The First Affiliated Hospital of Shenzhen University, Shenzhen Second People's Hospital, Shenzhen, China.
| | - Yu Rao
- MOE Key Laboratory of Protein Sciences, School of Pharmaceutical Sciences, MOE Key Laboratory of Bioorganic Phosphorus Chemistry & Chemical Biology, Tsinghua University, Beijing, China.
| | - Ceshi Chen
- Key Laboratory of Animal Models and Human Disease Mechanisms of the Chinese Academy of Sciences, KIZ-CUHK Joint Laboratory of Bioresources and Molecular Research in Common Diseases, Kunming Institute of Zoology, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Kunming, China.
- The Third Affiliated Hospital, Kunming Medical University, Kunming, China.
- Academy of Biomedical Engineering, Kunming Medical University, Kunming, China.
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8
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Ma Y, Yang X, Ning K, Guo H. M1/M2 macrophage-targeted nanotechnology and PROTAC for the treatment of atherosclerosis. Life Sci 2024; 352:122811. [PMID: 38862062 DOI: 10.1016/j.lfs.2024.122811] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/05/2024] [Revised: 03/17/2024] [Accepted: 06/04/2024] [Indexed: 06/13/2024]
Abstract
Macrophages play key roles in atherosclerosis progression, and an imbalance in M1/M2 macrophages leads to unstable plaques; therefore, M1/M2 macrophage polarization-targeted treatments may serve as a new approach in the treatment of atherosclerosis. At present, there is little research on M1/M2 macrophage polarization-targeted nanotechnology. Proteolysis-targeting chimera (PROTAC) technology, a targeted protein degradation technology, mediates the degradation of target proteins and has been widely promoted in preclinical and clinical applications as a novel therapeutic modality. This review summarizes the recent studies on M1/M2 macrophage polarization-targeted nanotechnology, focusing on the mechanism and advantages of PROTACs in M1/M2 macrophage polarization as a new approach for the treatment of atherosclerosis.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yupeng Ma
- School of Integrative Medicine, Shanghai University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, No. 1200 Cailun Road, Shanghai 201203, China; School of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Shanghai University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, No. 1200 Cailun Road, Shanghai 201203, China
| | - Xiaofan Yang
- School of Integrative Medicine, Shanghai University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, No. 1200 Cailun Road, Shanghai 201203, China; School of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Shanghai University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, No. 1200 Cailun Road, Shanghai 201203, China
| | - Ke Ning
- School of Integrative Medicine, Shanghai University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, No. 1200 Cailun Road, Shanghai 201203, China; School of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Shanghai University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, No. 1200 Cailun Road, Shanghai 201203, China.
| | - Haidong Guo
- School of Integrative Medicine, Shanghai University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, No. 1200 Cailun Road, Shanghai 201203, China; School of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Shanghai University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, No. 1200 Cailun Road, Shanghai 201203, China.
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9
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Feng Y, Hu X, Wang X. Targeted protein degradation in hematologic malignancies: clinical progression towards novel therapeutics. Biomark Res 2024; 12:85. [PMID: 39169396 PMCID: PMC11340087 DOI: 10.1186/s40364-024-00638-1] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/30/2024] [Accepted: 08/12/2024] [Indexed: 08/23/2024] Open
Abstract
Targeted therapies, such as small molecule kinase inhibitors, have made significant progress in the treatment of hematologic malignancies by directly modulating protein activity. However, issues such as drug toxicity, drug resistance due to target mutations, and the absence of key active sites limit the therapeutic efficacy of these drugs. Targeted protein degradation (TPD) presents an emergent and rapidly evolving therapeutic approach that selectively targets proteins of interest (POI) based on endogenous degradation processes. With an event-driven pharmacology of action, TPD achieves efficacy with catalytic amounts, avoiding drug-related toxicity. Furthermore, TPD has the unique mode of degrading the entire POI, such that resistance derived from mutations in the targeted protein has less impact on its degradation function. Proteolysis-targeting chimeras (PROTACs) and molecular glue degraders (MGDs) are the most maturely developed TPD techniques. In this review, we focus on both preclinical experiments and clinical trials to provide a comprehensive summary of the safety and clinical effectiveness of PROTACs and MGDs in hematologic malignancies over the past two decades. In addition, we also delineate the challenges and opportunities associated with these burgeoning degradation techniques. TPD, as an approach to the precise degradation of specific proteins, provides an important impetus for its future application in the treatment of patients with hematologic malignancies.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yupiao Feng
- Department of Hematology, Shandong Provincial Hospital, Shandong University, No.324, Jingwu Road, Jinan, Shandong, 250021, China
| | - Xinting Hu
- Department of Hematology, Shandong Provincial Hospital, Shandong University, No.324, Jingwu Road, Jinan, Shandong, 250021, China.
- Department of Hematology, Shandong Provincial Hospital Affiliated to Shandong First Medical University, No.324, Jingwu Road, Jinan, Shandong, 250021, China.
| | - Xin Wang
- Department of Hematology, Shandong Provincial Hospital, Shandong University, No.324, Jingwu Road, Jinan, Shandong, 250021, China.
- Department of Hematology, Shandong Provincial Hospital Affiliated to Shandong First Medical University, No.324, Jingwu Road, Jinan, Shandong, 250021, China.
- Taishan Scholars Program of Shandong Province, Jinan, Shandong, 250021, China.
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10
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He H, Li F, Tang R, Wu N, Zhou Y, Cao Y, Wang C, Wan L, Zhou Y, Zhuang H, Li P. Ultrasound Controllable Release of Proteolysis Targeting Chimeras for Triple-Negative Breast Cancer Treatment. Biomater Res 2024; 28:0064. [PMID: 39140036 PMCID: PMC11319668 DOI: 10.34133/bmr.0064] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/13/2024] [Accepted: 07/02/2024] [Indexed: 08/15/2024] Open
Abstract
Triple-negative breast cancer (TNBC) is a special subtype of breast cancer, which is highly aggressive and incurable. Here, we proposed an ultrasound activatable bromodomain-containing protein 4 (BRD4) proteolysis targeting chimera (PROTAC) release strategy for the first time for precisely controlled protein degradation in preclinical TNBC model. Through combination of PROTAC and ultrasound-targeted microbubble destruction (UTMD) technology, the present strategy also aims to concurrently solve the major limitations of poor loading capacity of microbubbles and undesirable targeting and membrane permeability of PROTAC. PROTAC (ARV-825)-encapsulated microbubbles, ARV-MBs, were developed for the efficacious treatment of TNBC in vitro and in vivo. The microbubbles we synthesized showed ultrasound-responsive drug release ability, which could effectively promote the penetration of PROTAC into tumor site and tumor cell. Under ultrasound, ARV-MBs could play an effective antitumor effect by potentiating the ubiquitination and degradation of BRD4 in tumor. The current study may provide a new idea for promoting clinical translation of drug-loaded microbubbles and PROTAC, and offer a new efficacious therapeutic modality for TNBC.
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Affiliation(s)
- Hongye He
- Institute of Ultrasound Imaging & Department of Ultrasound, The Second Affiliated Hospital of Chongqing Medical University, Chongqing Key Laboratory of Ultrasound Molecular Imaging, Chongqing 400010, China
| | - Feng Li
- Department of Hepatobiliary and Pancreatic Surgery, The
First Affiliated Hospital of Chongqing Medical University, Chongqing 400016, China
| | - Rui Tang
- Institute of Ultrasound Imaging & Department of Ultrasound, The Second Affiliated Hospital of Chongqing Medical University, Chongqing Key Laboratory of Ultrasound Molecular Imaging, Chongqing 400010, China
| | - Nianhong Wu
- Institute of Ultrasound Imaging & Department of Ultrasound, The Second Affiliated Hospital of Chongqing Medical University, Chongqing Key Laboratory of Ultrasound Molecular Imaging, Chongqing 400010, China
| | - Ying Zhou
- Department of Geriatrics, The
Second Affiliated Hospital of Chongqing Medical University, Chongqing 400010, China
| | - Yuting Cao
- Institute of Ultrasound Imaging & Department of Ultrasound, The Second Affiliated Hospital of Chongqing Medical University, Chongqing Key Laboratory of Ultrasound Molecular Imaging, Chongqing 400010, China
| | - Can Wang
- Department of Ultrasound, The Third People’s Hospital of Chengdu City, The Affiliated Hospital of Southwest Jiaotong University, Chengdu 610014, China
| | - Li Wan
- Institute of Ultrasound Imaging & Department of Ultrasound, The Second Affiliated Hospital of Chongqing Medical University, Chongqing Key Laboratory of Ultrasound Molecular Imaging, Chongqing 400010, China
| | - Yang Zhou
- Department of Medical Ultrasound,
West China Hospital of Sichuan University, Chengdu 610041, China
| | - Hua Zhuang
- Department of Ultrasound, The Ninth People’s Hospital of Chongqing, Chongqing 400700, China
| | - Pan Li
- Institute of Ultrasound Imaging & Department of Ultrasound, The Second Affiliated Hospital of Chongqing Medical University, Chongqing Key Laboratory of Ultrasound Molecular Imaging, Chongqing 400010, China
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11
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Gao J, Jiang X, Lei S, Cheng W, Lai Y, Li M, Yang L, Liu P, Chen XH, Huang M, Yu H, Xu H, Xu Z. A region-confined PROTAC nanoplatform for spatiotemporally tunable protein degradation and enhanced cancer therapy. Nat Commun 2024; 15:6608. [PMID: 39098906 PMCID: PMC11298519 DOI: 10.1038/s41467-024-50735-w] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/03/2023] [Accepted: 07/17/2024] [Indexed: 08/06/2024] Open
Abstract
The antitumor performance of PROteolysis-TArgeting Chimeras (PROTACs) is limited by its insufficient tumor specificity and poor pharmacokinetics. These disadvantages are further compounded by tumor heterogeneity, especially the presence of cancer stem-like cells, which drive tumor growth and relapse. Herein, we design a region-confined PROTAC nanoplatform that integrates both reactive oxygen species (ROS)-activatable and hypoxia-responsive PROTAC prodrugs for the precise manipulation of bromodomain and extraterminal protein 4 expression and tumor eradication. These PROTAC nanoparticles selectively accumulate within and penetrate deep into tumors via response to matrix metalloproteinase-2. Photoactivity is then reactivated in response to the acidic intracellular milieu and the PROTAC is discharged due to the ROS generated via photodynamic therapy specifically within the normoxic microenvironment. Moreover, the latent hypoxia-responsive PROTAC prodrug is restored in hypoxic cancer stem-like cells overexpressing nitroreductase. Here, we show the ability of region-confined PROTAC nanoplatform to effectively degrade BRD4 in both normoxic and hypoxic environments, markedly hindering tumor progression in breast and head-neck tumor models.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jing Gao
- State Key Laboratory of Chemical Biology & Center of Pharmaceutics, Shanghai Institute of Materia Medica, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Shanghai, 201203, China
- Department of Ultrasound, Zhongshan Hospital, Institute of Ultrasound in Medicine and Engineering, Fudan University, Shanghai, 200032, China
- Department of Medical Ultrasound and Center of Minimally Invasive Treatment for Tumor, Shanghai Tenth People's Hospital, School of Medicine, Tongji University, Shanghai, 200072, China
| | - Xingyu Jiang
- School of Chemistry and Molecular Engineering, East China Normal University, Shanghai, 200241, China
| | - Shumin Lei
- School of Chinese Materia Medica, Nanjing University of Chinese Medicine, Nanjing, 210023, China
| | - Wenhao Cheng
- State Key Laboratory of Chemical Biology & Center of Pharmaceutics, Shanghai Institute of Materia Medica, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Shanghai, 201203, China
| | - Yi Lai
- State Key Laboratory of Chemical Biology & Center of Pharmaceutics, Shanghai Institute of Materia Medica, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Shanghai, 201203, China
| | - Min Li
- State Key Laboratory of Chemical Biology & Center of Pharmaceutics, Shanghai Institute of Materia Medica, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Shanghai, 201203, China
| | - Lei Yang
- State Key Laboratory of Chemical Biology & Center of Pharmaceutics, Shanghai Institute of Materia Medica, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Shanghai, 201203, China
| | - Peifeng Liu
- State Key Laboratory of Systems Medicine for Cancer, Shanghai Cancer Institute, Renji Hospital, School of Medicine, Shanghai Jiao Tong University, Shanghai, 200032, China
| | - Xiao-Hua Chen
- State Key Laboratory of Drug Research, Shanghai Institute of Materia Medica, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Shanghai, 201203, China
| | - Min Huang
- Division of Antitumor Pharmacology, Shanghai Institute of Materia Medica, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Shanghai, 201203, China
| | - Haijun Yu
- State Key Laboratory of Chemical Biology & Center of Pharmaceutics, Shanghai Institute of Materia Medica, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Shanghai, 201203, China.
- School of Chinese Materia Medica, Nanjing University of Chinese Medicine, Nanjing, 210023, China.
| | - Huixiong Xu
- Department of Ultrasound, Zhongshan Hospital, Institute of Ultrasound in Medicine and Engineering, Fudan University, Shanghai, 200032, China.
| | - Zhiai Xu
- School of Chemistry and Molecular Engineering, East China Normal University, Shanghai, 200241, China.
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12
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Ma J, Fang L, Sun Z, Li M, Fan T, Xiang G, Ma X. Folate-PEG-PROTAC Micelles for Enhancing Tumor-Specific Targeting Proteolysis In Vivo. Adv Healthc Mater 2024; 13:e2400109. [PMID: 38676445 DOI: 10.1002/adhm.202400109] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/10/2024] [Revised: 04/01/2024] [Indexed: 04/28/2024]
Abstract
Proteolysis targeting chimeras (PROTACs) technology is rapidly developed as a novel and selective medicinal strategy for the degradation of cellular proteins in cancer therapy. However, the applications of PROTACs as heterobifunctional molecules are largely limited by high molecular weight, low bioavailability, poor permeability, insufficient targeting, and low efficacy in vivo. Herein, self-assembling micelles of FA-PEG-PROTAC are designed for cancer cell selective targeting and reductive-response proteolysis in tumor-bearing mice. FA-PEG-PROTAC is prepared by conjugating folic acid (FA)-PEG with EGFR-targeting PROTAC via a disulfide bond. The FA-PEG-PROTAC micelles, formed by self-assembling, are demonstrated to significantly improve tumor targeting efficacy and exhibit excellent anti-tumor efficacy in the mouse xenograft model compared to the traditional PROTACs. The strategy of applying self-assembled FA-PEG-PROTAC micelles in tumor therapy can not only improve targeted proteolysis efficiency but also broaden applications in the development of PROTAC-based drugs.
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Affiliation(s)
- Junhui Ma
- Department of Pharmacy, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, 430030, China
| | - Lei Fang
- Department of Pharmacy, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, 430030, China
| | - Zhengjun Sun
- Department of Pharmacy, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, 430030, China
| | - Meijing Li
- Department of Pharmacy, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, 430030, China
| | - Ting Fan
- Department of Pharmacy, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, 430030, China
| | - Guangya Xiang
- Department of Pharmacy, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, 430030, China
- Department of Pharmacy, Tongren Polytechnic College, Tongren, 554300, China
- Institute of the Higher Education Edible and Medicinal Fungi Engineering Research Center, Tongren, 554300, China
| | - Xiang Ma
- Department of Pharmacy, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, 430030, China
- Department of Pharmacy, Tongren Polytechnic College, Tongren, 554300, China
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13
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Fan L, Tong W, Wei A, Mu X. Progress of proteolysis-targeting chimeras (PROTACs) delivery system in tumor treatment. Int J Biol Macromol 2024; 275:133680. [PMID: 38971291 DOI: 10.1016/j.ijbiomac.2024.133680] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/03/2024] [Revised: 06/27/2024] [Accepted: 07/03/2024] [Indexed: 07/08/2024]
Abstract
Proteolysis targeting chimeras (PROTACs) can use the intrinsic protein degradation system in cells to degrade pathogenic target proteins, and are currently a revolutionary frontier of development strategy for tumor treatment with small molecules. However, the poor water solubility, low cellular permeability, and off-target side effects of most PROTACs have prevented them from passing the preclinical research stage of drug development. This requires the use of appropriate delivery systems to overcome these challenging hurdles and ensure precise delivery of PROTACs towards the tumor site. Therefore, the combination of PROTACs and multifunctional delivery systems will open up new research directions for targeted degradation of tumor proteins. In this review, we systematically reviewed the design principles and the most recent advances of various PROTACs delivery systems. Moreover, the constructive strategies for developing multifunctional PROTACs delivery systems were proposed comprehensively. This review aims to deepen the understanding of PROTACs drugs and promote the further development of PROTACs delivery system.
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Affiliation(s)
- Lianlian Fan
- Department of Pharmacy, China-Japan Union Hospital of Jilin University, Changchun 130033, China
| | - Weifang Tong
- Department of Otolaryngology Head and Neck Surgery, The Second Hospital of Jilin University, Changchun 130021, China
| | - Anhui Wei
- Jilin University School of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Changchun 130021, China
| | - Xupeng Mu
- Scientific Research Center, China-Japan Union Hospital of Jilin University, Changchun 130033, China.
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14
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Zou ZF, Yang L, Nie HJ, Gao J, Lei SM, Lai Y, Zhang F, Wagner E, Yu HJ, Chen XH, Xu ZA. Tumor-targeted PROTAC prodrug nanoplatform enables precise protein degradation and combination cancer therapy. Acta Pharmacol Sin 2024; 45:1740-1751. [PMID: 38609561 PMCID: PMC11272941 DOI: 10.1038/s41401-024-01266-z] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/23/2023] [Accepted: 03/12/2024] [Indexed: 04/14/2024] Open
Abstract
Proteolysis targeting chimeras (PROTACs) have emerged as revolutionary anticancer therapeutics that degrade disease-causing proteins. However, the anticancer performance of PROTACs is often impaired by their insufficient bioavailability, unsatisfactory tumor specificity and ability to induce acquired drug resistance. Herein, we propose a polymer-conjugated PROTAC prodrug platform for the tumor-targeted delivery of the most prevalent von Hippel-Lindau (VHL)- and cereblon (CRBN)-based PROTACs, as well as for the precise codelivery of a degrader and conventional small-molecule drugs. The self-assembling PROTAC prodrug nanoparticles (NPs) can specifically target and be activated inside tumor cells to release the free PROTAC for precise protein degradation. The PROTAC prodrug NPs caused more efficient regression of MDA-MB-231 breast tumors in a mouse model by degrading bromodomain-containing protein 4 (BRD4) or cyclin-dependent kinase 9 (CDK9) with decreased systemic toxicity. In addition, we demonstrated that the PROTAC prodrug NPs can serve as a versatile platform for the codelivery of a PROTAC and chemotherapeutics for enhanced anticancer efficiency and combination benefits. This study paves the way for utilizing tumor-targeted protein degradation for precise anticancer therapy and the effective combination treatment of complex diseases.
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Affiliation(s)
- Zhi-Feng Zou
- School of Chemistry and Molecular Engineering, East China Normal University, Shanghai, 200241, China
- State Key Laboratory of Chemistry Biology & Center of Pharmaceutics, Shanghai Institute of Materia Medica, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Shanghai, 201203, China
| | - Lei Yang
- State Key Laboratory of Chemistry Biology & Center of Pharmaceutics, Shanghai Institute of Materia Medica, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Shanghai, 201203, China
- School of Chinese Materia Medica, Nanjing University of Chinese Medicine, Nanjing, 210023, China
| | - Hui-Jun Nie
- School of Chinese Materia Medica, Nanjing University of Chinese Medicine, Nanjing, 210023, China
| | - Jing Gao
- State Key Laboratory of Chemistry Biology & Center of Pharmaceutics, Shanghai Institute of Materia Medica, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Shanghai, 201203, China.
| | - Shu-Min Lei
- School of Chinese Materia Medica, Nanjing University of Chinese Medicine, Nanjing, 210023, China
| | - Yi Lai
- State Key Laboratory of Chemistry Biology & Center of Pharmaceutics, Shanghai Institute of Materia Medica, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Shanghai, 201203, China
| | - Fan Zhang
- Department of Chemistry, Fudan University, Shanghai, 20043, China
| | - Ernst Wagner
- Department of Pharmacy, Ludwig-Maximilians-Universität, 81377, München, Germany
| | - Hai-Jun Yu
- State Key Laboratory of Chemistry Biology & Center of Pharmaceutics, Shanghai Institute of Materia Medica, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Shanghai, 201203, China.
- School of Chinese Materia Medica, Nanjing University of Chinese Medicine, Nanjing, 210023, China.
| | - Xiao-Hua Chen
- School of Chinese Materia Medica, Nanjing University of Chinese Medicine, Nanjing, 210023, China.
- School of Pharmaceutical Science and Technology, Hangzhou Institute for Advanced Study, University of Chinese Academy of Sciences, Hangzhou, 310024, China.
| | - Zhi-Ai Xu
- School of Chemistry and Molecular Engineering, East China Normal University, Shanghai, 200241, China.
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15
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Chen Y, Zhang L, Fang L, Chen C, Zhang D, Peng T. Modular Development of Enzyme-Activatable Proteolysis Targeting Chimeras for Selective Protein Degradation and Cancer Targeting. JACS AU 2024; 4:2564-2577. [PMID: 39055140 PMCID: PMC11267540 DOI: 10.1021/jacsau.4c00298] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/03/2024] [Revised: 05/10/2024] [Accepted: 05/10/2024] [Indexed: 07/27/2024]
Abstract
As an emerging therapeutic modality, proteolysis targeting chimeras (PROTACs) indiscriminately degrade proteins in both healthy and diseased cells, posing a risk of on-target off-site toxicity in normal tissues. Herein, we present the modular development of enzyme-activatable PROTACs, which utilize enzyme-recognition moieties to block protein degradation activities and can be specifically activated by elevated enzymes in cancer cells to enable cell-selective protein degradation and cancer targeting. We identified the methylene alkoxy carbamate (MAC) unit as an optimal self-immolative linker, possessing high stability and release efficiency for conjugating enzyme-recognition moieties with PROTACs. Leveraging the MAC linker, we developed a series of enzyme-activatable PROTACs, harnessing distinct enzymes for cancer-cell-selective protein degradation. Significantly, we introduced the first dual-enzyme-activatable PROTAC that requires the presence of two cancer-associated enzymes for activation, demonstrating highly selective protein degradation in cancer cells over nonmalignant cells, potent in vivo antitumor efficacy, and no off-tumor toxicity to normal tissues. The broad applicability of enzyme-activatable PROTACs was further demonstrated by caging other PROTACs via the MAC linker to target different proteins and E3 ligases. Our work underscores the substantial potential of enzyme-activatable PROTACs in overcoming the off-site toxicity associated with conventional PROTACs and offers new opportunities for targeted cancer treatment.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yanchi Chen
- State
Key Laboratory of Chemical Oncogenomics, School of Chemical Biology
and Biotechnology, Peking University Shenzhen
Graduate School, Shenzhen 518055, China
- National
Key Laboratory of Non-Food Biomass Energy Technology, National Engineering
Research Center for Non-Food Biorefinery, Institute of Grand Health, Guangxi Academy of Sciences, 98 Daling Road, Nanning 530007, China
| | - Lina Zhang
- State
Key Laboratory of Chemical Oncogenomics, School of Chemical Biology
and Biotechnology, Peking University Shenzhen
Graduate School, Shenzhen 518055, China
| | - Lincheng Fang
- State
Key Laboratory of Chemical Oncogenomics, School of Chemical Biology
and Biotechnology, Peking University Shenzhen
Graduate School, Shenzhen 518055, China
| | - Chengjie Chen
- State
Key Laboratory of Chemical Oncogenomics, School of Chemical Biology
and Biotechnology, Peking University Shenzhen
Graduate School, Shenzhen 518055, China
| | - Dong Zhang
- State
Key Laboratory of Chemical Oncogenomics, School of Chemical Biology
and Biotechnology, Peking University Shenzhen
Graduate School, Shenzhen 518055, China
| | - Tao Peng
- State
Key Laboratory of Chemical Oncogenomics, School of Chemical Biology
and Biotechnology, Peking University Shenzhen
Graduate School, Shenzhen 518055, China
- Institute
of Chemical Biology, Shenzhen Bay Laboratory, Shenzhen 518132, China
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16
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Fu X, Li J, Chen X, Chen H, Wang Z, Qiu F, Xie D, Huang J, Yue S, Cao C, Liang Y, Lu A, Liang C. Repurposing AS1411 for constructing ANM-PROTACs. Cell Chem Biol 2024; 31:1290-1304.e7. [PMID: 38657608 DOI: 10.1016/j.chembiol.2024.03.011] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/12/2023] [Revised: 11/29/2023] [Accepted: 03/29/2024] [Indexed: 04/26/2024]
Abstract
Proteolysis-targeting chimeras (PROTACs) are heterobifunctional molecules consisting of two ligands joined by a linker, enabling them to simultaneously bind with an E3 ligase and a protein of interest (POI) and trigger proteasomal degradation of the POI. Limitations of PROTAC include lack of potent E3 ligands, poor cell selectivity, and low permeability. AS1411 is an antitumor aptamer specifically recognizing a membrane-nucleus shuttling nucleolin (NCL). Here, we repurpose AS1411 as a ligand for an E3 ligase mouse double minute 2 homolog (MDM2) via anchoring the NCL-MDM2 complex. Then, we construct an AS1411-NCL-MDM2-based PROTAC (ANM-PROTAC) by conjugating AS1411 with large-molecular-weight ligands for "undruggable" oncogenic STAT3, c-Myc, p53-R175H, and AR-V7. We show that the ANM-PROTAC efficiently penetrates tumor cells, recruits MDM2 and degrades the POIs. The ANM-PROTAC achieves tumor-selective distribution and exhibits excellent antitumor activity with no systemic toxicity. This is a PROTAC with built-in tumor-targeting and cell-penetrating capacities.
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Affiliation(s)
- Xuekun Fu
- Department of Systems Biology, School of Life Sciences, Southern University of Science and Technology, Shenzhen 518055, China; Institute of Integrated Bioinfomedicine and Translational Science (IBTS), School of Chinese Medicine, Hong Kong Baptist University, Hong Kong SAR 999077, China
| | - Jin Li
- Department of Systems Biology, School of Life Sciences, Southern University of Science and Technology, Shenzhen 518055, China
| | - Xinxin Chen
- Department of Systems Biology, School of Life Sciences, Southern University of Science and Technology, Shenzhen 518055, China
| | - Hongzhen Chen
- Department of Systems Biology, School of Life Sciences, Southern University of Science and Technology, Shenzhen 518055, China
| | - Zhuqian Wang
- Department of Systems Biology, School of Life Sciences, Southern University of Science and Technology, Shenzhen 518055, China; Institute of Integrated Bioinfomedicine and Translational Science (IBTS), School of Chinese Medicine, Hong Kong Baptist University, Hong Kong SAR 999077, China
| | - Fang Qiu
- Department of Systems Biology, School of Life Sciences, Southern University of Science and Technology, Shenzhen 518055, China; Institute of Integrated Bioinfomedicine and Translational Science (IBTS), School of Chinese Medicine, Hong Kong Baptist University, Hong Kong SAR 999077, China
| | - Duoli Xie
- Department of Systems Biology, School of Life Sciences, Southern University of Science and Technology, Shenzhen 518055, China; Institute of Integrated Bioinfomedicine and Translational Science (IBTS), School of Chinese Medicine, Hong Kong Baptist University, Hong Kong SAR 999077, China
| | - Jie Huang
- Department of Systems Biology, School of Life Sciences, Southern University of Science and Technology, Shenzhen 518055, China; Institute of Integrated Bioinfomedicine and Translational Science (IBTS), School of Chinese Medicine, Hong Kong Baptist University, Hong Kong SAR 999077, China
| | - Siran Yue
- Department of Systems Biology, School of Life Sciences, Southern University of Science and Technology, Shenzhen 518055, China; Institute of Integrated Bioinfomedicine and Translational Science (IBTS), School of Chinese Medicine, Hong Kong Baptist University, Hong Kong SAR 999077, China
| | - Chunhao Cao
- Department of Systems Biology, School of Life Sciences, Southern University of Science and Technology, Shenzhen 518055, China; Institute of Integrated Bioinfomedicine and Translational Science (IBTS), School of Chinese Medicine, Hong Kong Baptist University, Hong Kong SAR 999077, China
| | - Yiying Liang
- Shenzhen LingGene Biotech Co., Ltd, Shenzhen 518055, China
| | - Aiping Lu
- Institute of Integrated Bioinfomedicine and Translational Science (IBTS), School of Chinese Medicine, Hong Kong Baptist University, Hong Kong SAR 999077, China; Guangdong-Hong Kong-Macau Joint Lab on Chinese Medicine and Immune Disease Research, Guangzhou 510006, China; Shanghai University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Shanghai 200032, China.
| | - Chao Liang
- Department of Systems Biology, School of Life Sciences, Southern University of Science and Technology, Shenzhen 518055, China; Institute of Integrated Bioinfomedicine and Translational Science (IBTS), School of Chinese Medicine, Hong Kong Baptist University, Hong Kong SAR 999077, China; State Key Laboratory of Proteomics, National Center for Protein Sciences (Beijing), Beijing Institute of Lifeomics, Beijing 100850, China.
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17
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Shi M, Li Y, Pan W, Fu Z, Wang K, Liu X, Li N, Tang B. A BRD4-Targeting Photothermal Agent for Controlled Protein Degradation. Angew Chem Int Ed Engl 2024; 63:e202403258. [PMID: 38721770 DOI: 10.1002/anie.202403258] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/15/2024] [Indexed: 06/19/2024]
Abstract
BRD4 protein plays a pivotal role in cell cycle regulation and differentiation. Disrupting the activity of BRD4 has emerged as a promising strategy for inhibiting the growth and proliferation of cancer cells. Herein, we introduced a BRD4-targeting photothermal agent for controlled protein degradation, aiming to enhance low-temperature photothermal therapy (PTT) for cancer treatment. By incorporating a BRD4 protein inhibitor into a cyanine dye scaffold, the photothermal agent specifically bond to the bromodomain of BRD4. Upon low power density laser irradiation, the agent induced protein degradation, directly destroying the BRD4 structure and inhibiting its transcriptional regulatory function. This strategy not only prolonged the retention time of the photothermal agent in cancer cells but also confined the targeted protein degradation process solely to the tumor tissue, minimizing side effects on normal tissues through the aid of exogenous signals. This work established a simple and feasible platform for future PTT agent design in clinical cancer treatment.
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Affiliation(s)
- Mingwan Shi
- College of Chemistry, Chemical Engineering and Materials Science, Key Laboratory of Molecular and Nano Probes, Ministry of Education, Collaborative Innovation Center of Functionalized Probes for Chemical Imaging in Universities of Shandong, Institute of Molecular and Nano Science, Shandong Normal University, Jinan, 250014, P. R. China
| | - Yuanyuan Li
- College of Chemistry, Chemical Engineering and Materials Science, Key Laboratory of Molecular and Nano Probes, Ministry of Education, Collaborative Innovation Center of Functionalized Probes for Chemical Imaging in Universities of Shandong, Institute of Molecular and Nano Science, Shandong Normal University, Jinan, 250014, P. R. China
| | - Wei Pan
- College of Chemistry, Chemical Engineering and Materials Science, Key Laboratory of Molecular and Nano Probes, Ministry of Education, Collaborative Innovation Center of Functionalized Probes for Chemical Imaging in Universities of Shandong, Institute of Molecular and Nano Science, Shandong Normal University, Jinan, 250014, P. R. China
| | - Zhongliang Fu
- College of Chemistry, Chemical Engineering and Materials Science, Key Laboratory of Molecular and Nano Probes, Ministry of Education, Collaborative Innovation Center of Functionalized Probes for Chemical Imaging in Universities of Shandong, Institute of Molecular and Nano Science, Shandong Normal University, Jinan, 250014, P. R. China
| | - Kaiye Wang
- College of Chemistry, Chemical Engineering and Materials Science, Key Laboratory of Molecular and Nano Probes, Ministry of Education, Collaborative Innovation Center of Functionalized Probes for Chemical Imaging in Universities of Shandong, Institute of Molecular and Nano Science, Shandong Normal University, Jinan, 250014, P. R. China
| | - Xiaohan Liu
- College of Chemistry, Chemical Engineering and Materials Science, Key Laboratory of Molecular and Nano Probes, Ministry of Education, Collaborative Innovation Center of Functionalized Probes for Chemical Imaging in Universities of Shandong, Institute of Molecular and Nano Science, Shandong Normal University, Jinan, 250014, P. R. China
| | - Na Li
- College of Chemistry, Chemical Engineering and Materials Science, Key Laboratory of Molecular and Nano Probes, Ministry of Education, Collaborative Innovation Center of Functionalized Probes for Chemical Imaging in Universities of Shandong, Institute of Molecular and Nano Science, Shandong Normal University, Jinan, 250014, P. R. China
| | - Bo Tang
- College of Chemistry, Chemical Engineering and Materials Science, Key Laboratory of Molecular and Nano Probes, Ministry of Education, Collaborative Innovation Center of Functionalized Probes for Chemical Imaging in Universities of Shandong, Institute of Molecular and Nano Science, Shandong Normal University, Jinan, 250014, P. R. China
- Laoshan Laboratory, Qingdao, 266237, P. R. China
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18
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Tanga S, Karmakar A, Hota A, Banerjee P, Maji B. Design and synthesis of nucleic acid nano-environment interactome-targeting small molecule PROTACs and their anticancer activity. NANOSCALE 2024; 16:12502-12509. [PMID: 38873939 DOI: 10.1039/d4nr01006j] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 06/15/2024]
Abstract
Targeted protein degradation through PROteolysis TArgeting Chimeras (PROTACs) is a relatively new modality in cellular interventions. The minimum requirement for PROTACs to function is forming a tertiary complex of the protein of interest (POI), E3 ligase, and the molecular glue PROTAC. Here, we propose a new approach to modulate the nano-environment interactome of a non-protein target through a plausible quaternary complex of interactome-biomolecule of interest (BOI)-PROTAC and E3 ligase. We report nucleic acid-targeting PROTAC (NA-TAC) molecules by conjugating DNA-binding and E3 ligase ligands. We demonstrate that NA-TACs can target the G-quadruplex DNA and induce elevated DNA damage and cytotoxicity compared to the conventional G-quadruplex binding ligands. Our new class of NA-TACs lays the foundation for small molecule-based non-protein targeting PROTACs for interactome and nanoenvironment mapping and nucleic acid-targeted precision medicines.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sadiya Tanga
- Ashoka University, Department of Chemistry, Rajiv Gandhi Education City, Sonipat, Haryana 131029, India
- Bose Institute, Department of Biological Sciences, EN 80, Sector V, Bidhannagar, Kolkata 700091, West Bengal, India.
| | - Arkadeep Karmakar
- Bose Institute, Department of Biological Sciences, EN 80, Sector V, Bidhannagar, Kolkata 700091, West Bengal, India.
| | - Arpita Hota
- Bose Institute, Department of Biological Sciences, EN 80, Sector V, Bidhannagar, Kolkata 700091, West Bengal, India.
| | - Paramita Banerjee
- S N Bose National Centre for Basic Science, JD Block, Sector 3, Bidhannagar, Kolkata 700106, West Bengal, India
| | - Basudeb Maji
- Bose Institute, Department of Biological Sciences, EN 80, Sector V, Bidhannagar, Kolkata 700091, West Bengal, India.
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19
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Fang Y, Zhang Y, Bi S, Peng B, Wang C, Ju H, Liu Y. Securing LYTAC with Logic-Identification System for Cancer Cell-Selective Membrane Protein Degradation. SMALL (WEINHEIM AN DER BERGSTRASSE, GERMANY) 2024; 20:e2310039. [PMID: 38431928 DOI: 10.1002/smll.202310039] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/04/2023] [Revised: 02/18/2024] [Indexed: 03/05/2024]
Abstract
Lysosome-targeting chimera (LYTAC) links proteins of interest (POIs) with lysosome-targeting receptors (LTRs) to achieve membrane protein degradation, which is becoming a promising therapeutic modality. However, cancer cell-selective membrane protein degradation remains a big challenge considering expressions of POIs in both cancer cells and normal cells, as well as broad tissue distribution of LTRs. Here a logic-identification system is designed, termed Logic-TAC, based on cell membrane-guided DNA calculations to secure LYTAC selectively for cancer cells. Logic-TAC is designed as a duplex DNA structure, with both POI and LTR recognition regions sealed to avoid systematic toxicity during administration. MCF-7 and MCF-10A are chosen as sample cancer cell and normal cell respectively. As input 1 for logic-identification, membrane proteins EpCAM, which is highly expressed by MCF-7 but barely by MCF-10A, reacts with Logic-TAC to expose POI recognition region. As input 2 for logic-identification, Logic-TAC binds to POI, membrane protein MUC1, to expose LTR recognition region. As output, MUC1 is connected to LTR and degraded via lysosome pathway selectively for cancer cell MCF-7 with little side effect on normal cell MCF-10A. The logic-identification system also demonstrated satisfactory in vivo therapeutic results, indicating its promising potential in precise targeted therapy.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yanyun Fang
- State Key Laboratory of Analytical Chemistry for Life Science, School of Chemistry and Chemical Engineering, Nanjing University, Nanjing, 210023, China
| | - Yue Zhang
- School of Pharmacy, Nanjing University of Chinese Medicine, Nanjing, 210023, China
| | - Shiyi Bi
- State Key Laboratory of Analytical Chemistry for Life Science, School of Chemistry and Chemical Engineering, Nanjing University, Nanjing, 210023, China
| | - Bo Peng
- State Key Laboratory of Analytical Chemistry for Life Science, School of Chemistry and Chemical Engineering, Nanjing University, Nanjing, 210023, China
| | - Caixia Wang
- State Key Laboratory of Analytical Chemistry for Life Science, School of Chemistry and Chemical Engineering, Nanjing University, Nanjing, 210023, China
| | - Huangxian Ju
- State Key Laboratory of Analytical Chemistry for Life Science, School of Chemistry and Chemical Engineering, Nanjing University, Nanjing, 210023, China
| | - Ying Liu
- State Key Laboratory of Analytical Chemistry for Life Science, School of Chemistry and Chemical Engineering, Nanjing University, Nanjing, 210023, China
- Chemistry and Biomedicine Innovation Center, Nanjing University, Nanjing, 210023, China
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20
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He S, Fang Y, Zhu Y, Ma Z, Dong G, Sheng C. Drugtamer-PROTAC Conjugation Strategy for Targeted PROTAC Delivery and Synergistic Antitumor Therapy. ADVANCED SCIENCE (WEINHEIM, BADEN-WURTTEMBERG, GERMANY) 2024; 11:e2401623. [PMID: 38639391 PMCID: PMC11220662 DOI: 10.1002/advs.202401623] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/15/2024] [Revised: 04/02/2024] [Indexed: 04/20/2024]
Abstract
Proteolysis-targeting chimeras (PROTACs) have emerged as a promising strategy for targeted protein degradation and drug discovery. To overcome the inherent limitations of conventional PROTACs, an innovative drugtamer-PROTAC conjugation approach is developed to enhance tumor targeting and antitumor potency. Specifically, a smart prodrug is designed by conjugating "drugtamer" to a nicotinamide phosphoribosyltransferase (NAMPT) PROTAC using a tumor microenvironment responsible linker. The "drugtamer" consists of fluorouridine nucleotide and DNA-like oligomer. Compared to NAMPT PROTAC and the combination of PROTAC + fluorouracil, the designed prodrug AS-2F-NP demonstrates superior tumor targeting, efficient cellular uptake, improved in vivo potency and reduced side effects. This study provides a promising strategy for the precise delivery of PROTAC and synergistic antitumor agents.
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Affiliation(s)
- Shipeng He
- Institute of Translational MedicineShanghai University99 Shangda RoadShanghai200444P. R. China
| | - Yuxin Fang
- Center for Basic Research and Innovation of Medicine and Pharmacy (MOE)School of PharmacySecond Military Medical University (Naval Medical University)325 Guohe RoadShanghai200433P. R. China
| | - Yaojin Zhu
- Institute of Translational MedicineShanghai University99 Shangda RoadShanghai200444P. R. China
| | - Ziyang Ma
- Center for Basic Research and Innovation of Medicine and Pharmacy (MOE)School of PharmacySecond Military Medical University (Naval Medical University)325 Guohe RoadShanghai200433P. R. China
| | - Guoqiang Dong
- Center for Basic Research and Innovation of Medicine and Pharmacy (MOE)School of PharmacySecond Military Medical University (Naval Medical University)325 Guohe RoadShanghai200433P. R. China
| | - Chunquan Sheng
- Center for Basic Research and Innovation of Medicine and Pharmacy (MOE)School of PharmacySecond Military Medical University (Naval Medical University)325 Guohe RoadShanghai200433P. R. China
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21
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Wang Z, Che S, Yu Z. PROTAC: Novel degradable approach for different targets to treat breast cancer. Eur J Pharm Sci 2024; 198:106793. [PMID: 38740076 DOI: 10.1016/j.ejps.2024.106793] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/21/2024] [Revised: 04/22/2024] [Accepted: 05/05/2024] [Indexed: 05/16/2024]
Abstract
The revolutionary Proteolysis Targeting Chimera (PROTACs) have the exciting potential to reshape the pharmaceutical industry landscape by leveraging the ubiquitin-proteasome system for targeted protein degradation. Breast cancer, the most prevalent cancer in women, could be treated using PROTAC therapy. Although substantial work has been conducted, there is not yet a comprehensive overview or progress update on PROTAC therapy for breast cancer. Hence, in this article, we've compiled recent research progress focusing on different breast cancer target proteins, such as estrogen receptor (ER), BET, CDK, HER2, PARP, EZH2, etc. This resource aims to serve as a guide for future PROTAC-based breast cancer treatment design.
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Affiliation(s)
- Zhenjie Wang
- Guangdong Provincial Key Laboratory of New Drug Screening, School of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Southern Medical University, Guangzhou 510515, PR China; Office of Drug Clinical Trials, The People's Hospital of Gaozhou, Maoming, 525200, PR China
| | - Siyao Che
- Hepatological Surgery Department, The People's Hospital of Gaozhou, Maoming, 525200, PR China.
| | - Zhiqiang Yu
- Department of Laboratory Medicine, Dongguan Institute of Clinical Cancer Research, The Tenth Affiliated Hospital of Southern Medical University (Dongguan People's Hospital), Dongguan 523018, PR China.
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22
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Wang S, Feng Z, Qu C, Yu S, Zhang H, Deng R, Luo D, Pu C, Zhang Y, Li R. Novel Amphiphilic PROTAC with Enhanced Pharmacokinetic Properties for ALK Protein Degradation. J Med Chem 2024; 67:9842-9856. [PMID: 38839424 DOI: 10.1021/acs.jmedchem.3c02340] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 06/07/2024]
Abstract
Advancements in anticancer strategies spotlight proteolysis targeting chimera (PROTAC) technology, yet it is hindered by poor water solubility and bioavailability. This study introduces a novel amphiphilic PROTAC, B1-PEG, synthesized through PEGylation of an optimized PROTAC molecule, B1, to enhance its properties. B1-PEG is engineered to self-organize into micelles in water and releases its active form in response to the tumor-specific high GSH environment. Comparative pharmacokinetic analysis revealed B1-PEG's superior bioavailability at 84.8%, outperforming the unmodified PROTAC molecule B1. When tested in a H3122 xenograft mouse model, B1-PEG significantly regressed tumors, underscoring its potential as a formidable candidate in targeted cancer therapy. Our findings offer a promising direction for overcoming bioavailability limitations in PROTAC drug design.
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Affiliation(s)
- Shirui Wang
- Department of Biotherapy, Cancer Center and State Key Laboratory of Biotherapy, West China Hospital, Sichuan University, Chengdu 610041, China
| | - Zhanzhan Feng
- Department of Biotherapy, Cancer Center and State Key Laboratory of Biotherapy, West China Hospital, Sichuan University, Chengdu 610041, China
| | - Can Qu
- State Key Laboratory of Southwestern Chinese Medicine Resources, School of Pharmacy, Chengdu University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Chengdu 611137, China
| | - Su Yu
- Department of Biotherapy, Cancer Center and State Key Laboratory of Biotherapy, West China Hospital, Sichuan University, Chengdu 610041, China
| | - Hongjia Zhang
- Department of Biotherapy, Cancer Center and State Key Laboratory of Biotherapy, West China Hospital, Sichuan University, Chengdu 610041, China
| | - Rui Deng
- Department of Biotherapy, Cancer Center and State Key Laboratory of Biotherapy, West China Hospital, Sichuan University, Chengdu 610041, China
| | - Dan Luo
- Department of Pharmacy, West China Hospital of Sichuan University, Chengdu 610031, China
| | - Chunlan Pu
- Medical Research Center, The Third People's Hospital of Chengdu, The Affiliated Hospital of Southwest Jiaotong University, The Second Chengdu Hospital Affiliated to Chongqing Medical University, Chengdu 610031, China
| | - Yan Zhang
- Department of Medical Oncology, Cancer Center, West China Hospital, Sichuan University, Chengdu, Sichuan 610041, China
- Lung Cancer Center/Lung Cancer Institute, West China Hospital, Sichuan University, Chengdu, Sichuan 610041, China
| | - Rui Li
- Department of Biotherapy, Cancer Center and State Key Laboratory of Biotherapy, West China Hospital, Sichuan University, Chengdu 610041, China
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23
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Song Y, Dong QQ, Ni YK, Xu XL, Chen CX, Chen W. Nano-Proteolysis Targeting Chimeras (Nano-PROTACs) in Cancer Therapy. Int J Nanomedicine 2024; 19:5739-5761. [PMID: 38882545 PMCID: PMC11180470 DOI: 10.2147/ijn.s448684] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/01/2023] [Accepted: 05/30/2024] [Indexed: 06/18/2024] Open
Abstract
Proteolysis-targeting chimeras (PROTACs) are heterobifunctional molecules that have the capability to induce specific protein degradation. While playing a revolutionary role in effectively degrading the protein of interest (POI), PROTACs encounter certain limitations that impede their clinical translation. These limitations encompass off-target effects, inadequate cell membrane permeability, and the hook effect. The advent of nanotechnology presents a promising avenue to surmount the challenges associated with conventional PROTACs. The utilization of nano-proteolysis targeting chimeras (nano-PROTACs) holds the potential to enhance specific tissue accumulation, augment membrane permeability, and enable controlled release. Consequently, this approach has the capacity to significantly enhance the controllable degradation of target proteins. Additionally, they enable a synergistic effect by combining with other therapeutic strategies. This review comprehensively summarizes the structural basis, advantages, and limitations of PROTACs. Furthermore, it highlights the latest advancements in nanosystems engineered for delivering PROTACs, as well as the development of nano-sized PROTACs employing nanocarriers as linkers. Moreover, it delves into the underlying principles of nanotechnology tailored specifically for PROTACs, alongside the current prospects of clinical research. In conclusion, the integration of nanotechnology into PROTACs harbors vast potential in enhancing the anti-tumor treatment response and expediting clinical translation.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yue Song
- Stomatology Hospital, School of Stomatology, Zhejiang University School of Medicine, Hangzhou, Zhejiang Province, 310003, People’s Republic of China
| | - Qing-Qing Dong
- ICU, Longhua Hospital Affiliated to Shanghai University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Shanghai, 200032, People’s Republic of China
| | - Yi-Ke Ni
- Shulan International Medical College, Zhejiang Shuren University, Hangzhou, Zhejiang Province, 310015, People’s Republic of China
| | - Xiao-Ling Xu
- Shulan International Medical College, Zhejiang Shuren University, Hangzhou, Zhejiang Province, 310015, People’s Republic of China
| | - Chao-Xiang Chen
- Shulan International Medical College, Zhejiang Shuren University, Hangzhou, Zhejiang Province, 310015, People’s Republic of China
| | - Wei Chen
- ICU, Longhua Hospital Affiliated to Shanghai University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Shanghai, 200032, People’s Republic of China
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24
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Huang X, Wu F, Ye J, Wang L, Wang X, Li X, He G. Expanding the horizons of targeted protein degradation: A non-small molecule perspective. Acta Pharm Sin B 2024; 14:2402-2427. [PMID: 38828146 PMCID: PMC11143490 DOI: 10.1016/j.apsb.2024.01.010] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/07/2023] [Revised: 12/22/2023] [Accepted: 01/16/2024] [Indexed: 06/05/2024] Open
Abstract
Targeted protein degradation (TPD) represented by proteolysis targeting chimeras (PROTACs) marks a significant stride in drug discovery. A plethora of innovative technologies inspired by PROTAC have not only revolutionized the landscape of TPD but have the potential to unlock functionalities beyond degradation. Non-small-molecule-based approaches play an irreplaceable role in this field. A wide variety of agents spanning a broad chemical spectrum, including peptides, nucleic acids, antibodies, and even vaccines, which not only prove instrumental in overcoming the constraints of conventional small molecule entities but also provided rapidly renewing paradigms. Herein we summarize the burgeoning non-small molecule technological platforms inspired by PROTACs, including three major trajectories, to provide insights for the design strategies based on novel paradigms.
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Affiliation(s)
- Xiaowei Huang
- Department of Pharmacy and Department of Dermatology & Venerology, West China Hospital, Sichuan University, Chengdu 610041, China
| | - Fengbo Wu
- Department of Pharmacy and Department of Dermatology & Venerology, West China Hospital, Sichuan University, Chengdu 610041, China
| | - Jing Ye
- Department of Pharmacy and Department of Dermatology & Venerology, West China Hospital, Sichuan University, Chengdu 610041, China
- Laboratory of Dermatology, Clinical Institute of Inflammation and Immunology, Frontiers Science Center for Disease-Related Molecular Network and State Key Laboratory of Biotherapy, West China Hospital, Sichuan University, Chengdu 610041, China
| | - Lian Wang
- Department of Pharmacy and Department of Dermatology & Venerology, West China Hospital, Sichuan University, Chengdu 610041, China
| | - Xiaoyun Wang
- Department of Pharmacy and Department of Dermatology & Venerology, West China Hospital, Sichuan University, Chengdu 610041, China
- Laboratory of Dermatology, Clinical Institute of Inflammation and Immunology, Frontiers Science Center for Disease-Related Molecular Network and State Key Laboratory of Biotherapy, West China Hospital, Sichuan University, Chengdu 610041, China
| | - Xiang Li
- Department of Urology, West China Hospital, Sichuan University, Chengdu 610041, China
| | - Gu He
- Department of Pharmacy and Department of Dermatology & Venerology, West China Hospital, Sichuan University, Chengdu 610041, China
- Laboratory of Dermatology, Clinical Institute of Inflammation and Immunology, Frontiers Science Center for Disease-Related Molecular Network and State Key Laboratory of Biotherapy, West China Hospital, Sichuan University, Chengdu 610041, China
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25
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Wang X, Xu N, Zhu L, Yang H, Li C, Tian H, Xu W. Structural Antagonism-Aided Conformational Regulation Enables an Aptamer-Loop G-Quadruplex Modular Sensor of β-Lactoglobulin. SMALL (WEINHEIM AN DER BERGSTRASSE, GERMANY) 2024; 20:e2307995. [PMID: 38212277 DOI: 10.1002/smll.202307995] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/12/2023] [Revised: 12/13/2023] [Indexed: 01/13/2024]
Abstract
A simple, reliable method for identifying β-lactoglobulin (β-LG) in dairy products is needed to protect those with β-LG allergies. A common, practical strategy for target detection is designing simplified nucleic acid nanodevices by integrating functional components. This work presents a label-free modular β-LG aptasensor consisting of an aptamer-loop G-quadruplex (G4), the working conformation of which is regulated by conformational antagonism to ensure respective module functionality and the related signal transduction. The polymorphic conformations of the module-fused sequence are systematically characterized, and the cause is revealed as shifting antagonistic equilibrium. Combined with conformational folding dynamics, this helped regulate functional conformations by fine-tuning the sequences. Furthermore, the principle of specific β-LG detection by parallel G4 topology is examined as binding on the G4 aptamer loop by β-LG to reinforce the G4 topology and fluorescence. Finally, a label-free, assembly-free, succinct, and turn-on fluorescent aptasensor is established, achieving excellent sensitivity across five orders of magnitude, rapidly detecting β-LG within 22-min. This study provides a generalizable approach for the conformational regulation of module-fused G4 sequences and a reference model for creating simplified sensing devices for a variety of targets.
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Affiliation(s)
- Xinxin Wang
- College of Food Science and Technology, Hebei Agricultural University, Baoding, 071001, China
- College of Life Science and Engineering, Handan University, Handan, 056005, China
- Key Laboratory of Precision Nutrition and Food Quality, Department of Nutrition and Health, China Agricultural University, Beijing, 100191, China
| | - Ning Xu
- School of Life Science, Tsinghua University, Beijing, 100091, China
| | - Longjiao Zhu
- Key Laboratory of Precision Nutrition and Food Quality, Department of Nutrition and Health, China Agricultural University, Beijing, 100191, China
| | - He Yang
- Key Laboratory of Precision Nutrition and Food Quality, Department of Nutrition and Health, China Agricultural University, Beijing, 100191, China
| | - Chen Li
- College of Food Science and Technology, Hebei Agricultural University, Baoding, 071001, China
| | - Hongtao Tian
- College of Food Science and Technology, Hebei Agricultural University, Baoding, 071001, China
| | - Wentao Xu
- Key Laboratory of Precision Nutrition and Food Quality, Department of Nutrition and Health, China Agricultural University, Beijing, 100191, China
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26
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Zhou H, Li Y, Wu W. Aptamers: Promising Reagents in Biomedicine Application. Adv Biol (Weinh) 2024; 8:e2300584. [PMID: 38488739 DOI: 10.1002/adbi.202300584] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/05/2023] [Revised: 02/13/2024] [Indexed: 06/16/2024]
Abstract
Nucleic acid aptamers, often termed "chemical antibodies," are short, single-stranded DNA or RNA molecules, which are selected by SELEX. In addition to their high specificity and affinity comparable to traditional antibodies, aptamers have numerous unique advantages such as wider identification of targets, none or low batch-to-batch variations, versatile chemical modifications, rapid mass production, and lack of immunogenicity. These characteristics make aptamers a promising recognition probe for scientific research or even clinical application. Aptamer-functionalized nanomaterials are now emerged as a promising drug delivery system for various diseases with decreased side-effects and improved efficacy. In this review, the technological strategies for generating high-affinity and biostable aptamers are introduced. Moreover, the development of aptamers for their application in biomedicine including aptamer-based biosensors, aptamer-drug conjugates and aptamer functionalized nanomaterials is comprehensively summarized.
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Affiliation(s)
- Hongxin Zhou
- Liver Cancer Institute, Zhongshan Hospital, Key Laboratory of Carcinogenesis and Cancer Invasion, Ministry of Education, Fudan University, Shanghai, 200032, P. R. China
| | - Yuhuan Li
- Liver Cancer Institute, Zhongshan Hospital, Key Laboratory of Carcinogenesis and Cancer Invasion, Ministry of Education, Fudan University, Shanghai, 200032, P. R. China
| | - Weizhong Wu
- Liver Cancer Institute, Zhongshan Hospital, Key Laboratory of Carcinogenesis and Cancer Invasion, Ministry of Education, Fudan University, Shanghai, 200032, P. R. China
- Clinical Center for Biotherapy, Zhongshan Hospital, Fudan University, Shanghai, 200032, P. R. China
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27
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Tian Y, Seifermann M, Bauer L, Luchena C, Wiedmann JJ, Schmidt S, Geisel A, Afonin S, Höpfner J, Brehm M, Liu X, Hopf C, Popova AA, Levkin PA. High-Throughput Miniaturized Synthesis of PROTAC-Like Molecules. SMALL (WEINHEIM AN DER BERGSTRASSE, GERMANY) 2024; 20:e2307215. [PMID: 38258390 DOI: 10.1002/smll.202307215] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/21/2023] [Revised: 01/03/2024] [Indexed: 01/24/2024]
Abstract
The development of miniaturized high-throughput in situ screening platforms capable of handling the entire process of drug synthesis to final screening is essential for advancing drug discovery in the future. In this study, an approach based on combinatorial solid-phase synthesis, enabling the efficient synthesis of libraries of proteolysis targeting chimeras (PROTACs) in an array format is presented. This on-chip platform allows direct biological screening without the need for transfer steps. UV-induced release of target molecules into individual droplets facilitates further on-chip experimentation. Utilizing a mitogen-activated protein kinase kinases (MEK1/2) degrader as a template, a series of 132 novel PROTAC-like molecules is synthesized using solid-phase Ugi reaction. These compounds are further characterized using various methods, including matrix-assisted laser desorption ionization mass spectrometry (MALDI-MS) imaging, while consuming only a few milligrams of starting materials in total. Furthermore, the feasibility of culturing cancer cells on the modified spots and quantifying the effect of MEK suppression is demonstrated. The miniaturized synthesis platform lays a foundation for high-throughput in situ biological screening of potent PROTACs for potential anticancer activity and offers the potential for accelerating the drug discovery process by integrating miniaturized synthesis and biological steps on the same array.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ye Tian
- Institute of Biological and Chemical Systems-Functional Molecular Systems (IBCS-FMS), Karlsruhe Institute of Technology (KIT), Hermann-von Helmholtz-Platz 1, 76344, Eggenstein-Leopoldshafen, Germany
- Department of Medicinal Chemistry, Key Laboratory of Chemical Biology (Ministry of Education), School of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Shandong University, Wenhuaxi Road 44, Jinan, 250012, China
- Department of Immunology, Key Laboratory for Experimental Teratology of Ministry of Education, Shandong Provincial Key Laboratory of Infection & Immunology, School of Basic Medical Sciences, Shandong University, Wenhuaxi Road 44, Jinan, 250012, China
| | - Maximilian Seifermann
- Institute of Biological and Chemical Systems-Functional Molecular Systems (IBCS-FMS), Karlsruhe Institute of Technology (KIT), Hermann-von Helmholtz-Platz 1, 76344, Eggenstein-Leopoldshafen, Germany
| | - Liana Bauer
- Institute of Biological and Chemical Systems-Functional Molecular Systems (IBCS-FMS), Karlsruhe Institute of Technology (KIT), Hermann-von Helmholtz-Platz 1, 76344, Eggenstein-Leopoldshafen, Germany
| | - Charlotte Luchena
- Institute of Biological and Chemical Systems-Functional Molecular Systems (IBCS-FMS), Karlsruhe Institute of Technology (KIT), Hermann-von Helmholtz-Platz 1, 76344, Eggenstein-Leopoldshafen, Germany
| | - Janne J Wiedmann
- Institute of Biological and Chemical Systems-Functional Molecular Systems (IBCS-FMS), Karlsruhe Institute of Technology (KIT), Hermann-von Helmholtz-Platz 1, 76344, Eggenstein-Leopoldshafen, Germany
| | - Stefan Schmidt
- Center for Mass Spectrometry and Optical Spectroscopy (CeMOS), University of Applied Sciences Mannheim, Paul-Wittsack-Straße 10, 68163, Mannheim, Germany
| | - Alexander Geisel
- Center for Mass Spectrometry and Optical Spectroscopy (CeMOS), University of Applied Sciences Mannheim, Paul-Wittsack-Straße 10, 68163, Mannheim, Germany
| | - Sergii Afonin
- Institute of Biological Interfaces (IBG-2), Karlsruhe Institute of Technology (KIT), POB 3640, 76021, Karlsruhe, Germany
| | - Julius Höpfner
- Institute of Biological and Chemical Systems-Functional Molecular Systems (IBCS-FMS), Karlsruhe Institute of Technology (KIT), Hermann-von Helmholtz-Platz 1, 76344, Eggenstein-Leopoldshafen, Germany
| | - Marius Brehm
- Institute of Biological and Chemical Systems-Functional Molecular Systems (IBCS-FMS), Karlsruhe Institute of Technology (KIT), Hermann-von Helmholtz-Platz 1, 76344, Eggenstein-Leopoldshafen, Germany
| | - Xinyong Liu
- Department of Medicinal Chemistry, Key Laboratory of Chemical Biology (Ministry of Education), School of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Shandong University, Wenhuaxi Road 44, Jinan, 250012, China
| | - Carsten Hopf
- Center for Mass Spectrometry and Optical Spectroscopy (CeMOS), University of Applied Sciences Mannheim, Paul-Wittsack-Straße 10, 68163, Mannheim, Germany
- Medical Faculty, Heidelberg University, Im Neuenheimer Feld 280, 69117, Heidelberg, Germany
- Mannheim Center for Translational Neuroscience (MCTN), Medical Faculty Mannheim, Heidelberg University, Theodor Kutzer-Ufer 1-3, 68167, Mannheim, Germany
| | - Anna A Popova
- Institute of Biological and Chemical Systems-Functional Molecular Systems (IBCS-FMS), Karlsruhe Institute of Technology (KIT), Hermann-von Helmholtz-Platz 1, 76344, Eggenstein-Leopoldshafen, Germany
| | - Pavel A Levkin
- Institute of Biological and Chemical Systems-Functional Molecular Systems (IBCS-FMS), Karlsruhe Institute of Technology (KIT), Hermann-von Helmholtz-Platz 1, 76344, Eggenstein-Leopoldshafen, Germany
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Fang Y, Wu Q, Wang F, Liu Y, Zhang H, Yang C, Zhu Z. Aptamer-RIBOTAC Strategy Enabling Tumor-Specific Targeted Degradation of MicroRNA for Precise Cancer Therapy. SMALL METHODS 2024:e2400349. [PMID: 38794853 DOI: 10.1002/smtd.202400349] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/11/2024] [Revised: 05/08/2024] [Indexed: 05/26/2024]
Abstract
MicroRNA (miRNA) molecules play crucial roles in a variety of diseases, making miRNA targeting a burgeoning field in medicinal chemistry. Ribonuclease targeting chimeras (RIBOTACs) present a compelling approach for RNA degradation. However, small molecule-based RIBOTAC requires an expensive and time-consuming screening process, and is difficult to directly target miRNA due to its short length lacking secondary structure. Antisense oligonucleotide (ASO)-based RIBOTAC is easy to design but with poor cell permeability. While both of them lack the specificity for tumor targeting. In this study, the first Aptamer-RIBOTAC (ARIBOTAC) chimera is designed based on ASO to achieve precise degradation of miRNA in a tumor cell-specific manner for precise cancer therapy. This chimera exhibits a remarkable ability to specifically identify and enter cancer cells, trigger localized activation of endogenous RNase L, and selectively cleave miRNAs that are complementary to ASO. The efficacy and universality of the ARIBOTAC strategy both in vitro and in vivo by degrading oncogenic miR-210-3p and miR-155-5p are validated. These findings underscore the potential of the ARIBOTAC strategy as a promising avenue for cancer therapy by precisely targeting cancer-associated miRNAs.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yuan Fang
- MOE Key Laboratory of Spectrochemical Analysis and Instrumentation, State Key Laboratory of Physical Chemistry of Solid Surfaces, Key Laboratory for Chemical Biology of Fujian Province, Department of Chemical Biology, College of Chemistry and Chemical Engineering, Xiamen University, Xiamen, 361000, China
| | - Qiuyue Wu
- MOE Key Laboratory of Spectrochemical Analysis and Instrumentation, State Key Laboratory of Physical Chemistry of Solid Surfaces, Key Laboratory for Chemical Biology of Fujian Province, Department of Chemical Biology, College of Chemistry and Chemical Engineering, Xiamen University, Xiamen, 361000, China
| | - Feiyu Wang
- MOE Key Laboratory of Spectrochemical Analysis and Instrumentation, State Key Laboratory of Physical Chemistry of Solid Surfaces, Key Laboratory for Chemical Biology of Fujian Province, Department of Chemical Biology, College of Chemistry and Chemical Engineering, Xiamen University, Xiamen, 361000, China
| | - Ye Liu
- MOE Key Laboratory of Spectrochemical Analysis and Instrumentation, State Key Laboratory of Physical Chemistry of Solid Surfaces, Key Laboratory for Chemical Biology of Fujian Province, Department of Chemical Biology, College of Chemistry and Chemical Engineering, Xiamen University, Xiamen, 361000, China
| | - Huimin Zhang
- Innovation Laboratory for Sciences, Technologies of Energy Materials of Fujian Province, Xiamen, 361000, China
| | - Chaoyong Yang
- MOE Key Laboratory of Spectrochemical Analysis and Instrumentation, State Key Laboratory of Physical Chemistry of Solid Surfaces, Key Laboratory for Chemical Biology of Fujian Province, Department of Chemical Biology, College of Chemistry and Chemical Engineering, Xiamen University, Xiamen, 361000, China
- Innovation Laboratory for Sciences, Technologies of Energy Materials of Fujian Province, Xiamen, 361000, China
| | - Zhi Zhu
- MOE Key Laboratory of Spectrochemical Analysis and Instrumentation, State Key Laboratory of Physical Chemistry of Solid Surfaces, Key Laboratory for Chemical Biology of Fujian Province, Department of Chemical Biology, College of Chemistry and Chemical Engineering, Xiamen University, Xiamen, 361000, China
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Wang C, Zhang Y, Chen W, Wu Y, Xing D. New-generation advanced PROTACs as potential therapeutic agents in cancer therapy. Mol Cancer 2024; 23:110. [PMID: 38773495 PMCID: PMC11107062 DOI: 10.1186/s12943-024-02024-9] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/20/2024] [Accepted: 05/10/2024] [Indexed: 05/23/2024] Open
Abstract
Proteolysis-targeting chimeras (PROTACs) technology has garnered significant attention over the last 10 years, representing a burgeoning therapeutic approach with the potential to address pathogenic proteins that have historically posed challenges for traditional small-molecule inhibitors. PROTACs exploit the endogenous E3 ubiquitin ligases to facilitate degradation of the proteins of interest (POIs) through the ubiquitin-proteasome system (UPS) in a cyclic catalytic manner. Despite recent endeavors to advance the utilization of PROTACs in clinical settings, the majority of PROTACs fail to progress beyond the preclinical phase of drug development. There are multiple factors impeding the market entry of PROTACs, with the insufficiently precise degradation of favorable POIs standing out as one of the most formidable obstacles. Recently, there has been exploration of new-generation advanced PROTACs, including small-molecule PROTAC prodrugs, biomacromolecule-PROTAC conjugates, and nano-PROTACs, to improve the in vivo efficacy of PROTACs. These improved PROTACs possess the capability to mitigate undesirable physicochemical characteristics inherent in traditional PROTACs, thereby enhancing their targetability and reducing off-target side effects. The new-generation of advanced PROTACs will mark a pivotal turning point in the realm of targeted protein degradation. In this comprehensive review, we have meticulously summarized the state-of-the-art advancements achieved by these cutting-edge PROTACs, elucidated their underlying design principles, deliberated upon the prevailing challenges encountered, and provided an insightful outlook on future prospects within this burgeoning field.
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Affiliation(s)
- Chao Wang
- Cancer Institute, The Affiliated Hospital of Qingdao University, Qingdao University, Qingdao, 266071, Shandong, China
| | - Yujing Zhang
- The Affiliated Cardiovascular Hospital of Qingdao University, Qingdao University, Qingdao, 266071, Shandong, China.
| | - Wujun Chen
- Cancer Institute, The Affiliated Hospital of Qingdao University, Qingdao University, Qingdao, 266071, Shandong, China
| | - Yudong Wu
- Cancer Institute, The Affiliated Hospital of Qingdao University, Qingdao University, Qingdao, 266071, Shandong, China.
| | - Dongming Xing
- Cancer Institute, The Affiliated Hospital of Qingdao University, Qingdao University, Qingdao, 266071, Shandong, China.
- School of Life Sciences, Tsinghua University, Beijing, 100084, China.
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Chang M, Gao F, Gnawali G, Xu H, Dong Y, Meng X, Li W, Wang Z, Lopez B, Carew JS, Nawrocki ST, Lu J, Zhang QY, Wang W. Selective Elimination of Senescent Cancer Cells by Galacto-Modified PROTACs. J Med Chem 2024; 67:7301-7311. [PMID: 38635879 PMCID: PMC11227109 DOI: 10.1021/acs.jmedchem.4c00152] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 04/20/2024]
Abstract
Although the selective and effective clearance of senescent cancer cells can improve cancer treatment, their development is confronted by many challenges. As part of efforts designed to overcome these problems, prodrugs, whose design is based on senescence-associated β-galactosidase (SA-β-gal), have been developed to selectively eliminate senescent cells. However, chemotherapies relying on targeted molecular inhibitors as senolytic drugs can induce drug resistance. In the current investigation, we devised a new strategy for selective degradation of target proteins in senescent cancer cells that utilizes a prodrug composed of the SA-β-gal substrate galactose (galacto) and the proteolysis-targeting chimeras (PROTACs) as senolytic agents. Prodrugs Gal-ARV-771 and Gal-MS99 were found to display senolytic indexes higher than those of ARV-771 and MS99. Significantly, results of in vivo studies utilizing a human lung A549 xenograft mouse model demonstrated that concomitant treatment with etoposide and Gal-ARV-771 leads to a significant inhibition of tumor growth without eliciting significant toxicity.
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Affiliation(s)
- Mengyang Chang
- Department of Chemistry and Biochemistry, University of Arizona, Tucson, Arizona 85721, United States
| | - Feng Gao
- Department of Pharmacology and Toxicology, University of Arizona, Tucson, Arizona 85721, United States
| | - Giri Gnawali
- Department of Pharmacology and Toxicology, University of Arizona, Tucson, Arizona 85721, United States
| | - Hang Xu
- Department of Pharmacology and Toxicology, University of Arizona, Tucson, Arizona 85721, United States
| | - Yue Dong
- Department of Pharmacology and Toxicology, University of Arizona, Tucson, Arizona 85721, United States
| | - Xiang Meng
- Department of Pharmacology and Toxicology, University of Arizona, Tucson, Arizona 85721, United States
| | - Wenpan Li
- Department of Pharmacology and Toxicology, University of Arizona, Tucson, Arizona 85721, United States
| | - Zhiren Wang
- Department of Pharmacology and Toxicology, University of Arizona, Tucson, Arizona 85721, United States
| | - Byrdie Lopez
- Department of Chemistry and Biochemistry, University of Arizona, Tucson, Arizona 85721, United States
| | - Jennifer S. Carew
- Department of Medicine, University of Arizona, Tucson, Arizona 85721, United States
- University of Arizona Cancer Center, University of Arizona, Tucson, Arizona 85721, United States
| | - Steffan T. Nawrocki
- Department of Medicine, University of Arizona, Tucson, Arizona 85721, United States
- University of Arizona Cancer Center, University of Arizona, Tucson, Arizona 85721, United States
| | - Jianqin Lu
- Department of Pharmacology and Toxicology, University of Arizona, Tucson, Arizona 85721, United States
| | - Qing-Yu Zhang
- Department of Pharmacology and Toxicology, University of Arizona, Tucson, Arizona 85721, United States
| | - Wei Wang
- Department of Chemistry and Biochemistry, University of Arizona, Tucson, Arizona 85721, United States
- Department of Pharmacology and Toxicology, University of Arizona, Tucson, Arizona 85721, United States
- University of Arizona Cancer Center, University of Arizona, Tucson, Arizona 85721, United States
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Rej RK, Allu SR, Roy J, Acharyya RK, Kiran INC, Addepalli Y, Dhamodharan V. Orally Bioavailable Proteolysis-Targeting Chimeras: An Innovative Approach in the Golden Era of Discovering Small-Molecule Cancer Drugs. Pharmaceuticals (Basel) 2024; 17:494. [PMID: 38675453 PMCID: PMC11054475 DOI: 10.3390/ph17040494] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/20/2024] [Revised: 04/02/2024] [Accepted: 04/08/2024] [Indexed: 04/28/2024] Open
Abstract
Proteolysis-targeting chimeras (PROTACs) are an emerging therapeutic modality that show promise to open a target space not accessible to conventional small molecules via a degradation-based mechanism. PROTAC degraders, due to their bifunctional nature, which is categorized as 'beyond the Rule of Five', have gained attention as a distinctive therapeutic approach for oral administration in clinical settings. However, the development of PROTACs with adequate oral bioavailability remains a significant hurdle, largely due to their large size and less than ideal physical and chemical properties. This review encapsulates the latest advancements in orally delivered PROTACs that have entered clinical evaluation as well as developments highlighted in recent scholarly articles. The insights and methodologies elaborated upon in this review could be instrumental in supporting the discovery and refinement of novel PROTAC degraders aimed at the treatment of various human cancers.
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Affiliation(s)
- Rohan Kalyan Rej
- Rogel Cancer Center, Department of Internal Medicine, University of Michigan, Ann Arbor, MI 48109, USA; (S.R.A.); (R.K.A.)
| | - Srinivasa Rao Allu
- Rogel Cancer Center, Department of Internal Medicine, University of Michigan, Ann Arbor, MI 48109, USA; (S.R.A.); (R.K.A.)
| | - Joyeeta Roy
- Rogel Cancer Center, Department of Medicinal Chemistry, College of Pharmacy, University of Michigan, Ann Arbor, MI 48109, USA;
| | - Ranjan Kumar Acharyya
- Rogel Cancer Center, Department of Internal Medicine, University of Michigan, Ann Arbor, MI 48109, USA; (S.R.A.); (R.K.A.)
| | - I. N. Chaithanya Kiran
- Department of Chemistry and Chemical Biology, Harvard University, Cambridge, MA 02139, USA;
| | - Yesu Addepalli
- Department of Biochemistry, University of Texas Southwestern Medical Center, Dallas, TX 75390, USA;
| | - V. Dhamodharan
- Institute of Organic Chemistry, Center for Nanosystems Chemistry, University of Wuerzburg, Am Hubland, 97074 Würzburg, Germany;
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Shi Y, Bashian EE, Hou Y, Wu P. Chemical immunology: Recent advances in tool development and applications. Cell Chem Biol 2024; 31:S2451-9456(24)00080-1. [PMID: 38508196 PMCID: PMC11393185 DOI: 10.1016/j.chembiol.2024.02.006] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/01/2023] [Revised: 02/01/2024] [Accepted: 02/22/2024] [Indexed: 03/22/2024]
Abstract
Immunology was one of the first biological fields to embrace chemical approaches. The development of new chemical approaches and techniques has provided immunologists with an impressive arsenal of tools to address challenges once considered insurmountable. This review focuses on advances at the interface of chemistry and immunobiology over the past two decades that have not only opened new avenues in basic immunological research, but also revolutionized drug development for the treatment of cancer and autoimmune diseases. These include chemical approaches to understand and manipulate antigen presentation and the T cell priming process, to facilitate immune cell trafficking and regulate immune cell functions, and therapeutic applications of chemical approaches to disease control and treatment.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yujie Shi
- Department of Molecular and Cellular Biology, The Scripps Research Institute, 10550 North Torrey Pines Road, La Jolla, CA 92037, USA
| | - Eleanor E Bashian
- Department of Molecular and Cellular Biology, The Scripps Research Institute, 10550 North Torrey Pines Road, La Jolla, CA 92037, USA
| | - Yingqin Hou
- Department of Molecular and Cellular Biology, The Scripps Research Institute, 10550 North Torrey Pines Road, La Jolla, CA 92037, USA
| | - Peng Wu
- Department of Molecular and Cellular Biology, The Scripps Research Institute, 10550 North Torrey Pines Road, La Jolla, CA 92037, USA.
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Wang C, Zhang Y, Yu W, Xu J, Xing D. PROTAC-biomacromolecule conjugates for precise protein degradation in cancer therapy: A review. Int J Biol Macromol 2024; 261:129864. [PMID: 38302015 DOI: 10.1016/j.ijbiomac.2024.129864] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/06/2023] [Revised: 01/22/2024] [Accepted: 01/29/2024] [Indexed: 02/03/2024]
Abstract
Proteolysis targeting chimera (PROTAC) technology is a promising new mode of targeted protein degradation with significant transformative implications for the clinical treatment of different diseases. Nevertheless, while this technology offers numerous advantages, on-target off-tumour toxicity in healthy cells remains a major challenge for clinical application in cancer therapy. Strategies are presently being explored to optimize degradation activity with cellular selectivity to minimize undesirable side effects. PROTAC-antibody conjugates and PROTAC-aptamer conjugates are unique innovations that combine PROTACs and biomacromolecules. These novel PROTAC-biomacromolecule conjugates (PBCs) can enhance the targetability of PROTACs and reduce their off-target side-effects. The combination of potent PROTACs and highly safe biomacromolecules will pioneer an emerging trend in targeted protein degradation. In our review, we have summarized recent advances in PBCs, discussed current challenges, and outlooked opportunities for future research in the field.
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Affiliation(s)
- Chao Wang
- Cancer Institute, The Affiliated Hospital of Qingdao University, Qingdao University, Qingdao 266071, Shandong, China
| | - Yujing Zhang
- The Affiliated Cardiovascular Hospital of Qingdao University, Qingdao University, Qingdao 266071, Shandong, China.
| | - Wanpeng Yu
- Qingdao Medical College, Qingdao University, Qingdao 266071, China.
| | - Jiazhen Xu
- Cancer Institute, The Affiliated Hospital of Qingdao University, Qingdao University, Qingdao 266071, Shandong, China.
| | - Dongming Xing
- Cancer Institute, The Affiliated Hospital of Qingdao University, Qingdao University, Qingdao 266071, Shandong, China; School of Life Sciences, Tsinghua University, Beijing 100084, China
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Zhong J, Zhao R, Wang Y, Su YX, Lan X. Nano-PROTACs: state of the art and perspectives. NANOSCALE 2024; 16:4378-4391. [PMID: 38305466 DOI: 10.1039/d3nr06059d] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 02/03/2024]
Abstract
PROteolysis TArgeting Chimeras (PROTACs), as a recently identified technique in the field of new drug development, provide new concepts for disease treatment and are expected to revolutionize drug discovery. With high specificity and flexibility, PROTACs serve as an innovative research tool to target and degrade disease-relevant proteins that are not currently pharmaceutically vulnerable to eliminating their functions by hijacking the ubiquitin-proteasome system. To date, PROTACs still face the challenges of low solubility, poor permeability, off-target effects, and metabolic instability. The combination of nanotechnology and PROTACs has been explored to enhance the in vivo performance of PROTACs regarding overcoming these challenging hurdles. In this review, we summarize the latest advancements in the building-block design of PROTAC prodrug nanoparticles and provide an overview of existing/potential delivery systems and loading approaches for PROTAC drugs. Furthermore, we discuss the current status and prospects of the split-and-mix approach for PROTAC drug optimization. Additionally, the advantages and translational potentials of carrier-free nano-PROTACs and their combinational therapeutic effects are highlighted. This review aims to foster a deeper understanding of this rapidly evolving field and facilitate the progress of nano-PROTACs that will continue to push the boundaries of achieving selectivity and controlled release of PROTAC drugs.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jie Zhong
- Beijing Area Major Laboratory of Peptide and Small Molecular Drugs, Engineering Research Center of Ministry of Education of China, Beijing Laboratory of Biomedical Materials, School of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Capital Medical University, Beijing 100069, China.
- Discipline of Oral and Maxillofacial Surgery, Faculty of Dentistry, The University of Hong Kong, Hong Kong SAR 999077, China.
| | - Ruiqi Zhao
- Discipline of Oral and Maxillofacial Surgery, Faculty of Dentistry, The University of Hong Kong, Hong Kong SAR 999077, China.
| | - Yuji Wang
- Beijing Area Major Laboratory of Peptide and Small Molecular Drugs, Engineering Research Center of Ministry of Education of China, Beijing Laboratory of Biomedical Materials, School of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Capital Medical University, Beijing 100069, China.
| | - Yu-Xiong Su
- Discipline of Oral and Maxillofacial Surgery, Faculty of Dentistry, The University of Hong Kong, Hong Kong SAR 999077, China.
| | - Xinmiao Lan
- Beijing Area Major Laboratory of Peptide and Small Molecular Drugs, Engineering Research Center of Ministry of Education of China, Beijing Laboratory of Biomedical Materials, School of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Capital Medical University, Beijing 100069, China.
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Chang M, Dong Y, Xu H, Cruickshank-Taylor AB, Kozora JS, Behpour B, Wang W. Senolysis Enabled by Senescent Cell-Sensitive Bioorthogonal Tetrazine Ligation. Angew Chem Int Ed Engl 2024; 63:e202315425. [PMID: 38233359 PMCID: PMC11226389 DOI: 10.1002/anie.202315425] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/12/2023] [Revised: 01/11/2024] [Accepted: 01/17/2024] [Indexed: 01/19/2024]
Abstract
Although the clearance of senescent cells has been proven to slow down the aging process and promote anti-cancer chemotherapy, the development of senolytics remains challenging. Herein, we report a senolytic strategy enabled by senescent cell-sensitive bioorthogonal tetrazine ligation. Our design is based on linking dihydrotetrazine (Tz) to a galactose (Gal) moiety that serves both as a recognition moiety for senescence-associated β-galactosidase and a caging group for the control of tetrazine activity. Gal-Tz enables efficient click-release of a fluorescent hemicyanine and doxorubicin from a trans-cyclooctene-caged prodrug to detect and eliminate senescent HeLa and A549 cells over non-senescent counterparts with a 16.44 senolytic index. Furthermore, we leverage the strategy for the selective activation and delivery of proteolysis-targeting chimeras (PROTACs) as senolytics. PROTAC prodrug TCO-ARV-771 can be selectively activated by Gal-Tz and delivered into senescent HeLa and A549 cells to induce the degradation of bromodomain-containing protein 4. Senolytic PROTACs may offer an efficient way for intervention on cell senescence thanks to their unique capacity to degrade target proteins in a sub-stoichiometric and catalytic fashion. The results of this study establish the bioorthogonal tetrazine ligation approach as a viable strategy for selective removal of senescent cells.
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Affiliation(s)
- Mengyang Chang
- Department of Chemistry and Biochemistry, University of Arizona, Tucson, Arizona, 85721, USA
| | - Yue Dong
- Department of Pharmacology and Toxicology, University of Arizona, Tucson, Arizona, 85721, USA
| | - Hang Xu
- Department of Pharmacology and Toxicology, University of Arizona, Tucson, Arizona, 85721, USA
| | | | - Jacob S Kozora
- Department of Pharmacology and Toxicology, University of Arizona, Tucson, Arizona, 85721, USA
| | - Baran Behpour
- Department of Chemistry and Biochemistry, University of Arizona, Tucson, Arizona, 85721, USA
| | - Wei Wang
- Departments of Pharmacology and Toxicology and Chemistry and Biochemistry, University of Arizona Cancer Center, and BIO5 Institute, University of Arizona, Tucson, Arizona, 85721, USA
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He X, Weng Z, Zou Y. Progress in the controllability technology of PROTAC. Eur J Med Chem 2024; 265:116096. [PMID: 38160619 DOI: 10.1016/j.ejmech.2023.116096] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/06/2023] [Revised: 12/20/2023] [Accepted: 12/21/2023] [Indexed: 01/03/2024]
Abstract
Proteolysis-targeting chimaera (PROTAC) technology functions by directly targeting proteins and catalysing their degradation through an event-driven mode of action, a novel mechanism with significant clinical application prospects for various diseases. Currently, the most advanced PROTAC drug is undergoing phase III clinical trials (NCT05654623). Although PROTACs exhibit significant advantages over traditional small-molecule inhibitors, their catalytic degradation of normal cellular proteins can potentially cause toxic side effects. Therefore, to achieve targeted release of PROTACs and minimize adverse reactions, researchers are actively exploring diverse controllable PROTACs. In this review, we comprehensively summarize the control strategies to provide a theoretical basis for the innovative application of PROTAC technology.
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Affiliation(s)
- Xin He
- School of Chemical and Pharmaceutical Engineering, Changzhou Vocational Institute of Engineering, Changzhou, 213164, PR China.
| | - Zhibing Weng
- School of Chemical and Pharmaceutical Engineering, Changzhou Vocational Institute of Engineering, Changzhou, 213164, PR China
| | - Yi Zou
- Department of Medicinal Chemistry, School of Pharmacy, China Pharmaceutical University, Nanjing, 211198, PR China.
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Weng W, Xue G, Pan Z. Development of visible-light-activatable photocaged PROTACs. Eur J Med Chem 2024; 265:116062. [PMID: 38128235 DOI: 10.1016/j.ejmech.2023.116062] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/24/2023] [Revised: 12/11/2023] [Accepted: 12/14/2023] [Indexed: 12/23/2023]
Abstract
Photocaged proteolysis-targeting chimeras (PROTACs), which employ light as a stimulus to control protein degradation, have recently garnered considerable attention as both powerful chemical tools and a promising therapeutic strategy. However, the poor penetration depth of traditionally used ultraviolet light and the deficiency of alternative caging positions have restricted their applications in biological systems. By installing a diverse array of photocaged groups, with excitation wavelengths ranging from 365 nm to 405 nm, onto different positions of cereblon (CRBN) and Von Hippel-Lindau (VHL)-recruiting Brd4 degraders, we conducted the first comprehensive study on visible-light-activatable photocaged PROTACs to the best of our knowledge. We found the A2, A4 and B3 positions to be most effective at regulating the activity of the degraders, and to provide the resulting molecules (9-12 and 17) as potent visible-light-controlled degraders in live cells.
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Affiliation(s)
- Weizhi Weng
- State Key Laboratory of Chemical Oncogenomics, Key Laboratory of Chemical Genomics, School of Chemical Biology and Biotechnology, Shenzhen Graduate School, Peking University, Shenzhen, 518055, China
| | - Gang Xue
- State Key Laboratory of Chemical Oncogenomics, Key Laboratory of Chemical Genomics, School of Chemical Biology and Biotechnology, Shenzhen Graduate School, Peking University, Shenzhen, 518055, China
| | - Zhengying Pan
- State Key Laboratory of Chemical Oncogenomics, Key Laboratory of Chemical Genomics, School of Chemical Biology and Biotechnology, Shenzhen Graduate School, Peking University, Shenzhen, 518055, China.
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Wang F, Dong G, Ding M, Yu N, Sheng C, Li J. Dual-Programmable Semiconducting Polymer NanoPROTACs for Deep-Tissue Sonodynamic-Ferroptosis Activatable Immunotherapy. SMALL (WEINHEIM AN DER BERGSTRASSE, GERMANY) 2024; 20:e2306378. [PMID: 37817359 DOI: 10.1002/smll.202306378] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/27/2023] [Revised: 09/14/2023] [Indexed: 10/12/2023]
Abstract
Proteolysis-targeting chimeras (PROTACs) can provide promising opportunities for cancer treatment, while precise regulation of their activities remains challenging to achieve effective and safe therapeutic outcomes. A semiconducting polymer nanoPROTAC (SPNFeP ) is reported that can achieve ultrasound (US) and tumor microenvironment dual-programmable PROTAC activity for deep-tissue sonodynamic-ferroptosis activatable immunotherapy. SPNFeP is formed through a nano-precipitation of a sonodynamic semiconducting polymer, a ferroptosis inducer, and a newly synthesized PROTAC molecule. The semiconducting polymers work as sonosensitizers to produce singlet oxygen (1 O2 ) via sonodynamic effect under US irradiation, and ferroptosis inducers react with intratumoral hydrogen peroxide (H2 O2 ) to generate hydroxyl radical (·OH). Such a dual-programmable reactive oxygen species (ROS) generation not only triggers ferroptosis and immunogenic cell death (ICD), but also induces on-demand activatable delivery of PROTAC molecules into tumor sites. The effectively activated nanoPROTACs degrade nicotinamide phosphoribosyl transferase (NAMPT) to suppress tumor infiltration of myeloid-derived suppressive cells (MDSCs), thus promoting antitumor immunity. In such a way, SPNFeP mediates sonodynamic-ferroptosis activatable immunotherapy for entirely inhibiting tumor growths in both subcutaneous and 2-cm tissue-covered deep tumor mouse models. This study presents a dual-programmable activatable strategy based on PROTACs for effective and precise cancer combinational therapy.
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Affiliation(s)
- Fengshuo Wang
- State Key Laboratory for Modification of Chemical Fibers and Polymer Materials, College of Biological Science and Medical Engineering, Donghua University, Shanghai, 201620, China
| | - Guoqiang Dong
- School of Pharmacy, Second Military Medical University, Shanghai, 200433, China
| | - Mengbin Ding
- State Key Laboratory for Modification of Chemical Fibers and Polymer Materials, College of Biological Science and Medical Engineering, Donghua University, Shanghai, 201620, China
| | - Ningyue Yu
- State Key Laboratory for Modification of Chemical Fibers and Polymer Materials, College of Biological Science and Medical Engineering, Donghua University, Shanghai, 201620, China
| | - Chunquan Sheng
- School of Pharmacy, Second Military Medical University, Shanghai, 200433, China
| | - Jingchao Li
- State Key Laboratory for Modification of Chemical Fibers and Polymer Materials, College of Biological Science and Medical Engineering, Donghua University, Shanghai, 201620, China
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Liao X, Qin G, Liu Z, Ren J, Qu X. Bioorthogonal Aptamer-ATTEC Conjugates for Degradation of Alpha-Synuclein via Autophagy-Lysosomal Pathway. SMALL (WEINHEIM AN DER BERGSTRASSE, GERMANY) 2024; 20:e2306760. [PMID: 37821404 DOI: 10.1002/smll.202306760] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/07/2023] [Indexed: 10/13/2023]
Abstract
Autophagosome-tethering compound (ATTEC) technology has recently been emerging as a novel approach for degrading proteins of interest (POIs). However, it still faces great challenges in how to design target-specific ATTEC molecules. Aptamers are single-stranded DNA or RNA oligonucleotides that can recognize their target proteins with high specificity and affinity. Here, ATTEC is combined with aptamers for POIs degradation. As a proof of concept, pathological protein α-synuclein (α-syn) is chosen as the target and an efficient α-syn degrader is generated. Aptamer as a targeting warhead of α-syn is conjugated with LC3B-binding compound 5,7-dihydroxy-4-phenylcoumarin (DP) via bioorthogonal click reaction. It is demonstrated that the aptamer conjugated with DP is capable of clearing α-syn through LC3 and autophagic degradation. These results indicate that aptamer-based ATTECs are a versatile approach to degrade POIs by taking advantage of the well-defined different aptamers for targeting diverse proteins, which provides a new way for the design of ATTECs to degradation of targeted proteins.
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Affiliation(s)
- Xiaofeng Liao
- Laboratory of Chemical Biology and State Key Laboratory of Rare Earth Resource Utilization, Changchun Institute of Applied Chemistry, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Changchun, Jilin, 130022, P. R. China
- School of Applied Chemistry and Engineering, University of Science and Technology of China, Hefei, Anhui, 230026, P. R. China
| | - Geng Qin
- Laboratory of Chemical Biology and State Key Laboratory of Rare Earth Resource Utilization, Changchun Institute of Applied Chemistry, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Changchun, Jilin, 130022, P. R. China
- School of Applied Chemistry and Engineering, University of Science and Technology of China, Hefei, Anhui, 230026, P. R. China
| | - Zhenqi Liu
- Laboratory of Chemical Biology and State Key Laboratory of Rare Earth Resource Utilization, Changchun Institute of Applied Chemistry, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Changchun, Jilin, 130022, P. R. China
- School of Applied Chemistry and Engineering, University of Science and Technology of China, Hefei, Anhui, 230026, P. R. China
| | - Jinsong Ren
- Laboratory of Chemical Biology and State Key Laboratory of Rare Earth Resource Utilization, Changchun Institute of Applied Chemistry, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Changchun, Jilin, 130022, P. R. China
- School of Applied Chemistry and Engineering, University of Science and Technology of China, Hefei, Anhui, 230026, P. R. China
| | - Xiaogang Qu
- Laboratory of Chemical Biology and State Key Laboratory of Rare Earth Resource Utilization, Changchun Institute of Applied Chemistry, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Changchun, Jilin, 130022, P. R. China
- School of Applied Chemistry and Engineering, University of Science and Technology of China, Hefei, Anhui, 230026, P. R. China
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Peng X, Hu Z, Zeng L, Zhang M, Xu C, Lu B, Tao C, Chen W, Hou W, Cheng K, Bi H, Pan W, Chen J. Overview of epigenetic degraders based on PROTAC, molecular glue, and hydrophobic tagging technologies. Acta Pharm Sin B 2024; 14:533-578. [PMID: 38322348 PMCID: PMC10840439 DOI: 10.1016/j.apsb.2023.09.003] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/10/2023] [Revised: 07/21/2023] [Accepted: 08/30/2023] [Indexed: 02/08/2024] Open
Abstract
Epigenetic pathways play a critical role in the initiation, progression, and metastasis of cancer. Over the past few decades, significant progress has been made in the development of targeted epigenetic modulators (e.g., inhibitors). However, epigenetic inhibitors have faced multiple challenges, including limited clinical efficacy, toxicities, lack of subtype selectivity, and drug resistance. As a result, the design of new epigenetic modulators (e.g., degraders) such as PROTACs, molecular glue, and hydrophobic tagging (HyT) degraders has garnered significant attention from both academia and pharmaceutical industry, and numerous epigenetic degraders have been discovered in the past decade. In this review, we aim to provide an in-depth illustration of new degrading strategies (2017-2023) targeting epigenetic proteins for cancer therapy, focusing on the rational design, pharmacodynamics, pharmacokinetics, clinical status, and crystal structure information of these degraders. Importantly, we also provide deep insights into the potential challenges and corresponding remedies of this approach to drug design and development. Overall, we hope this review will offer a better mechanistic understanding and serve as a useful guide for the development of emerging epigenetic-targeting degraders.
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Affiliation(s)
- Xiaopeng Peng
- College of Pharmacy, Key Laboratory of Prevention and Treatment of Cardiovascular and Cerebrovascular Diseases of Ministry of Education, Gannan Medical University, Ganzhou 314000, China
| | - Zhihao Hu
- College of Pharmacy, Key Laboratory of Prevention and Treatment of Cardiovascular and Cerebrovascular Diseases of Ministry of Education, Gannan Medical University, Ganzhou 314000, China
| | - Limei Zeng
- College of Basic Medicine, Gannan Medical University, Ganzhou 314000, China
| | - Meizhu Zhang
- College of Pharmacy, Key Laboratory of Prevention and Treatment of Cardiovascular and Cerebrovascular Diseases of Ministry of Education, Gannan Medical University, Ganzhou 314000, China
| | - Congcong Xu
- College of Pharmacy, Key Laboratory of Prevention and Treatment of Cardiovascular and Cerebrovascular Diseases of Ministry of Education, Gannan Medical University, Ganzhou 314000, China
| | - Benyan Lu
- College of Pharmacy, Key Laboratory of Prevention and Treatment of Cardiovascular and Cerebrovascular Diseases of Ministry of Education, Gannan Medical University, Ganzhou 314000, China
| | - Chengpeng Tao
- College of Pharmacy, Key Laboratory of Prevention and Treatment of Cardiovascular and Cerebrovascular Diseases of Ministry of Education, Gannan Medical University, Ganzhou 314000, China
| | - Weiming Chen
- College of Pharmacy, Key Laboratory of Prevention and Treatment of Cardiovascular and Cerebrovascular Diseases of Ministry of Education, Gannan Medical University, Ganzhou 314000, China
| | - Wen Hou
- College of Pharmacy, Key Laboratory of Prevention and Treatment of Cardiovascular and Cerebrovascular Diseases of Ministry of Education, Gannan Medical University, Ganzhou 314000, China
| | - Kui Cheng
- Guangdong Provincial Key Laboratory of New Drug Screening, NMPA Key Laboratory for Research and Evaluation of Drug Metabolism, School of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Southern Medical University, Guangzhou 510515, China
| | - Huichang Bi
- Guangdong Provincial Key Laboratory of New Drug Screening, NMPA Key Laboratory for Research and Evaluation of Drug Metabolism, School of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Southern Medical University, Guangzhou 510515, China
| | - Wanyi Pan
- College of Pharmacy, Key Laboratory of Prevention and Treatment of Cardiovascular and Cerebrovascular Diseases of Ministry of Education, Gannan Medical University, Ganzhou 314000, China
| | - Jianjun Chen
- Guangdong Provincial Key Laboratory of New Drug Screening, NMPA Key Laboratory for Research and Evaluation of Drug Metabolism, School of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Southern Medical University, Guangzhou 510515, China
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Xue X, Zhang C, Li X, Wang J, Zhang H, Feng Y, Xu N, Li H, Tan C, Jiang Y, Tan Y. mRNA PROTACs: engineering PROTACs for high-efficiency targeted protein degradation. MedComm (Beijing) 2024; 5:e478. [PMID: 38374873 PMCID: PMC10876204 DOI: 10.1002/mco2.478] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/13/2023] [Revised: 01/02/2024] [Accepted: 01/11/2024] [Indexed: 02/21/2024] Open
Abstract
Proteolysis-targeting chimeras (PROTACs) are essential bifunctional molecules that target proteins of interest (POIs) for degradation by cellular ubiquitination machinery. Despite significant progress made in understanding PROTACs' functions, their therapeutic potential remains largely untapped. As a result of the success of highly flexible, scalable, and low-cost mRNA therapies, as well as the advantages of the first generation of peptide PROTACs (p-PROTACs), we present for the first time an engineering mRNA PROTACs (m-PROTACs) strategy. This design combines von Hippel-Lindau (VHL) recruiting peptide encoding mRNA and POI-binding peptide encoding mRNA to form m-PROTAC and promote cellular POI degradation. We then performed proof-of-concept experiments using two m-PROTACs targeting two cancer-related proteins, estrogen receptor alpha and B-cell lymphoma-extra large protein. Our results demonstrated that m-PROTACs could successfully degrade the POIs in different cell lines and more effectively inhibit cell proliferation than the traditional p-PROTACs. Moreover, the in vivo experiment demonstrated that m-PROTAC led to significant tumor regression in the 4T1 mouse xenograft model. This finding highlights the enormous potential of m-PROTAC as a promising approach for targeted protein degradation therapy.
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Affiliation(s)
- Xiaoqi Xue
- State Key Laboratory of Chemical OncogenomicsInstitute of Biopharmaceutical and Health EngineeringShenzhen International Graduate School, Tsinghua UniversityShenzhenChina
| | - Chen Zhang
- State Key Laboratory of Chemical OncogenomicsInstitute of Biopharmaceutical and Health EngineeringShenzhen International Graduate School, Tsinghua UniversityShenzhenChina
| | - Xiaolin Li
- State Key Laboratory of Chemical OncogenomicsInstitute of Biopharmaceutical and Health EngineeringShenzhen International Graduate School, Tsinghua UniversityShenzhenChina
| | - Junqiao Wang
- State Key Laboratory of Chemical OncogenomicsInstitute of Biopharmaceutical and Health EngineeringShenzhen International Graduate School, Tsinghua UniversityShenzhenChina
| | - Haowei Zhang
- State Key Laboratory of Chemical OncogenomicsInstitute of Biopharmaceutical and Health EngineeringShenzhen International Graduate School, Tsinghua UniversityShenzhenChina
| | - Ying Feng
- State Key Laboratory of Chemical OncogenomicsInstitute of Biopharmaceutical and Health EngineeringShenzhen International Graduate School, Tsinghua UniversityShenzhenChina
| | - Naihan Xu
- State Key Laboratory of Chemical OncogenomicsInstitute of Biopharmaceutical and Health EngineeringShenzhen International Graduate School, Tsinghua UniversityShenzhenChina
- School of Food and DrugShenzhen Polytechnic UniversityShenzhenChina
| | - Hongyan Li
- Shenzhen NeoCura Biotechnology Co., Ltd.ShenzhenChina
| | - Chunyan Tan
- State Key Laboratory of Chemical OncogenomicsInstitute of Biopharmaceutical and Health EngineeringShenzhen International Graduate School, Tsinghua UniversityShenzhenChina
| | - Yuyang Jiang
- State Key Laboratory of Chemical OncogenomicsInstitute of Biopharmaceutical and Health EngineeringShenzhen International Graduate School, Tsinghua UniversityShenzhenChina
| | - Ying Tan
- State Key Laboratory of Chemical OncogenomicsInstitute of Biopharmaceutical and Health EngineeringShenzhen International Graduate School, Tsinghua UniversityShenzhenChina
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Park D, Lee SJ, Park JW. Aptamer-Based Smart Targeting and Spatial Trigger-Response Drug-Delivery Systems for Anticancer Therapy. Biomedicines 2024; 12:187. [PMID: 38255292 PMCID: PMC10813750 DOI: 10.3390/biomedicines12010187] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/15/2023] [Revised: 01/05/2024] [Accepted: 01/11/2024] [Indexed: 01/24/2024] Open
Abstract
In recent years, the field of drug delivery has witnessed remarkable progress, driven by the quest for more effective and precise therapeutic interventions. Among the myriad strategies employed, the integration of aptamers as targeting moieties and stimuli-responsive systems has emerged as a promising avenue, particularly in the context of anticancer therapy. This review explores cutting-edge advancements in targeted drug-delivery systems, focusing on the integration of aptamers and stimuli-responsive platforms for enhanced spatial anticancer therapy. In the aptamer-based drug-delivery systems, we delve into the versatile applications of aptamers, examining their conjugation with gold, silica, and carbon materials. The synergistic interplay between aptamers and these materials is discussed, emphasizing their potential in achieving precise and targeted drug delivery. Additionally, we explore stimuli-responsive drug-delivery systems with an emphasis on spatial anticancer therapy. Tumor microenvironment-responsive nanoparticles are elucidated, and their capacity to exploit the dynamic conditions within cancerous tissues for controlled drug release is detailed. External stimuli-responsive strategies, including ultrasound-mediated, photo-responsive, and magnetic-guided drug-delivery systems, are examined for their role in achieving synergistic anticancer effects. This review integrates diverse approaches in the quest for precision medicine, showcasing the potential of aptamers and stimuli-responsive systems to revolutionize drug-delivery strategies for enhanced anticancer therapy.
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Affiliation(s)
- Dongsik Park
- Drug Manufacturing Center, Daegu-Gyeongbuk Medical Innovation Foundation (K-MEDI Hub), Daegu 41061, Republic of Korea
| | - Su Jin Lee
- Drug Manufacturing Center, Daegu-Gyeongbuk Medical Innovation Foundation (K-MEDI Hub), Daegu 41061, Republic of Korea
| | - Jee-Woong Park
- Medical Device Development Center, Daegu-Gyeongbuk Medical Innovation Foundation (K-MEDI Hub), Daegu 41061, Republic of Korea
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Li D, Peng X, Hu Z, Li S, Chen J, Pan W. Small molecules targeting selected histone methyltransferases (HMTs) for cancer treatment: Current progress and novel strategies. Eur J Med Chem 2024; 264:115982. [PMID: 38056296 DOI: 10.1016/j.ejmech.2023.115982] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/17/2023] [Revised: 11/17/2023] [Accepted: 11/19/2023] [Indexed: 12/08/2023]
Abstract
Histone methyltransferases (HMTs) play a critical role in gene post-translational regulation and diverse physiological processes, and are implicated in a plethora of human diseases, especially cancer. Increasing evidences demonstrate that HMTs may serve as a potential therapeutic target for cancer treatment. Thus, the development of HMTs inhibitor have been pursued with steadily increasing interest over the past decade. However, the disadvantages such as insufficient clinical efficacy, moderate selectivity, and propensity for acquired resistance have hindered the development of conventional HMT inhibitors. New technologies and methods are imperative to enhance the anticancer activity of HMT inhibitors. In this review, we first review the structure and biological functions of the several essential HMTs, such as EZH2, G9a, PRMT5, and DOT1L. The internal relationship between these HMTs and cancer is also expounded. Next, we mainly focus on the latest progress in the development of HMT modulators encompassing dual-target inhibitors, targeted protein degraders and covalent inhibitors from perspectives such as rational design, pharmacodynamics, pharmacokinetics, and clinical status. Lastly, we also discuss the challenges and future directions for HMT-based drug discovery for cancer therapy.
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Affiliation(s)
- Deping Li
- Department of Pharmacy, First Affiliated Hospital of Gannan Medical University, Ganzhou, 341000, PR China
| | - Xiaopeng Peng
- Key Laboratory of Prevention and Treatment of Cardiovascular and Cerebrovascular Diseases, School of Pharmacy, Gannan Medical University, Ganzhou, 341000, PR China
| | - Zhihao Hu
- Key Laboratory of Prevention and Treatment of Cardiovascular and Cerebrovascular Diseases, School of Pharmacy, Gannan Medical University, Ganzhou, 341000, PR China
| | - Shuqing Li
- Key Laboratory of Prevention and Treatment of Cardiovascular and Cerebrovascular Diseases, School of Pharmacy, Gannan Medical University, Ganzhou, 341000, PR China
| | - Jianjun Chen
- School of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Guangdong Provincial Key Laboratory of New Drug Screening, Southern Medical University, Guangzhou, 516000, PR China.
| | - Wanyi Pan
- Key Laboratory of Prevention and Treatment of Cardiovascular and Cerebrovascular Diseases, School of Pharmacy, Gannan Medical University, Ganzhou, 341000, PR China.
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He S, Fang Y, Wu M, Zhang P, Gao F, Hu H, Sheng C, Dong G. Enhanced Tumor Targeting and Penetration of Proteolysis-Targeting Chimeras through iRGD Peptide Conjugation: A Strategy for Precise Protein Degradation in Breast Cancer. J Med Chem 2023; 66:16828-16842. [PMID: 38055861 DOI: 10.1021/acs.jmedchem.3c01539] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/08/2023]
Abstract
Proteolysis-targeting chimeras (PROTACs) have recently emerged as a promising technology for drug development. However, poor water solubility, limited tissue selectivity, and inadequate tumor penetration pose significant challenges for PROTAC-based therapies in cancer treatment. Herein, we developed an iRGD-PROTAC conjugation strategy utilizing tumor-penetrating cyclic peptide iRGD (CRGDK/RGPD/EC) to deliver PROTACs deep into breast cancer tissues. As a conceptual validation study, iRGD peptides were conjugated with a bromodomain-containing protein 4 (BRD4) PROTAC through a GSH-responsive linker. The resulting iRGD-PROTAC conjugate iPR showed enhanced water solubility, tumor-targeting capability, and penetration within tumor tissues, resulting in increased antibreast cancer efficacy in animal models and patient-derived organoids. This study demonstrates the advantages of combining iRGD and PROTACs in improving drug delivery and highlights the importance of tissue selectivity and penetration ability in PROTAC-based therapeutics.
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Affiliation(s)
- Shipeng He
- Institute of Translational Medicine,Shanghai University, 99 Shangda Road, Shanghai 200444, China
| | - Yuxin Fang
- The Center for Basic Research and Innovation of Medicine and Pharmacy (MOE), School of Pharmacy, Second Military Medical University (Naval Medical University), 325 Guohe Road, Shanghai 200433, China
| | - Minghao Wu
- Institute of Translational Medicine,Shanghai University, 99 Shangda Road, Shanghai 200444, China
| | - Peifeng Zhang
- The Center for Basic Research and Innovation of Medicine and Pharmacy (MOE), School of Pharmacy, Second Military Medical University (Naval Medical University), 325 Guohe Road, Shanghai 200433, China
| | - Fei Gao
- Institute of Translational Medicine,Shanghai University, 99 Shangda Road, Shanghai 200444, China
| | - Honggang Hu
- Institute of Translational Medicine,Shanghai University, 99 Shangda Road, Shanghai 200444, China
| | - Chunquan Sheng
- The Center for Basic Research and Innovation of Medicine and Pharmacy (MOE), School of Pharmacy, Second Military Medical University (Naval Medical University), 325 Guohe Road, Shanghai 200433, China
| | - Guoqiang Dong
- The Center for Basic Research and Innovation of Medicine and Pharmacy (MOE), School of Pharmacy, Second Military Medical University (Naval Medical University), 325 Guohe Road, Shanghai 200433, China
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Liu R, Liu Z, Chen M, Xing H, Zhang P, Zhang J. Cooperatively designed aptamer-PROTACs for spatioselective degradation of nucleocytoplasmic shuttling protein for enhanced combinational therapy. Chem Sci 2023; 15:134-145. [PMID: 38131089 PMCID: PMC10732009 DOI: 10.1039/d3sc04249a] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/14/2023] [Accepted: 11/21/2023] [Indexed: 12/23/2023] Open
Abstract
Nucleocytoplasmic shuttling proteins (NSPs) have emerged as a promising class of therapeutic targets for many diseases. However, most NSPs-based therapies largely rely on small-molecule inhibitors with limited efficacy and off-target effects. Inspired by proteolysis targeting chimera (PROTAC) technology, we report a new archetype of PROTAC (PS-ApTCs) by introducing a phosphorothioate-modified aptamer to a CRBN ligand, realizing tumor-targeting and spatioselective degradation of NSPs with improved efficacy. Using nucleolin as a model, we demonstrate that PS-ApTCs is capable of effectively degrading nucleolin in the target cell membrane and cytoplasm but not in the nucleus, through the disruption of nucleocytoplasmic shuttling. Moreover, PS-ApTCs exhibits superior antiproliferation, pro-apoptotic, and cell cycle arrest potencies. Importantly, we demonstrate that a combination of PS-ApTCs-mediated nucleolin degradation with aptamer-drug conjugate-based chemotherapy enables a synergistic effect on tumor inhibition. Collectively, PS-ApTCs could expand the PROTAC toolbox to more targets in subcellular localization and accelerate the discovery of new combinational therapeutic approaches.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ran Liu
- State Key Laboratory of Analytical Chemistry for Life Science, School of Chemistry and Chemical Engineering, Chemistry and Biomedicine Innovation Center (ChemBIC), Nanjing University Nanjing 210023 China
| | - Zheng Liu
- State Key Laboratory of Analytical Chemistry for Life Science, School of Chemistry and Chemical Engineering, Chemistry and Biomedicine Innovation Center (ChemBIC), Nanjing University Nanjing 210023 China
| | - Mohan Chen
- State Key Laboratory of Analytical Chemistry for Life Science, School of Chemistry and Chemical Engineering, Chemistry and Biomedicine Innovation Center (ChemBIC), Nanjing University Nanjing 210023 China
| | - Hang Xing
- Institute of Chemical Biology and Nanomedicine, State Key Laboratory of Chemo/Biosensing and Chemometrics, Hunan Provincial Key Laboratory of Biomacromolecular Chemical Biology, College of Chemistry and Chemical Engineering, Hunan University Changsha 410082 China
| | - Penghui Zhang
- Zhejiang Cancer Hospital, The Key Laboratory of Zhejiang Province for Aptamers and Theranostics, Hangzhou Institute of Medicine (HIM), Chinese Academy of Sciences Hangzhou 310022 China
| | - Jingjing Zhang
- State Key Laboratory of Analytical Chemistry for Life Science, School of Chemistry and Chemical Engineering, Chemistry and Biomedicine Innovation Center (ChemBIC), Nanjing University Nanjing 210023 China
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Zhou Z, Fan H, Yu D, Shi F, Li Q, Zhang Z, Wang X, Zhang X, Dong C, Sun H, Mi W. Glutathione-responsive PROTAC for targeted degradation of ERα in breast cancer cells. Bioorg Med Chem 2023; 96:117526. [PMID: 38008041 DOI: 10.1016/j.bmc.2023.117526] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/31/2023] [Revised: 11/03/2023] [Accepted: 11/07/2023] [Indexed: 11/28/2023]
Abstract
ERα (estrogen receptor-α)-targeting PROTACs (PROteolysis TArgeting Chimeras) have emerged as a novel and promising modality for breast cancer therapeutics. However, ERα PROTACs-induced degradation in normal tissues raises concerns about potential off-tissue toxicity. Tumor microenvironment-responsive strategy provides potential for specific control of the PROTAC's on-target degradation activity. The glutathione (GSH) level has been reported to be significantly increased in tumor cells. Here, we designed a GSH-responsive ERα PROTAC, which is generated by conjugating an o-nitrobenzenesulfonyl group to the hydroxyl group of VHL-based ERα PROTAC through a nucleophilic substitution reaction. The o-nitrobenzenesulfonyl group as a protecting group blocks the bioactivity of ERα PROTAC (ER-P1), and that can be specifically recognized and removed by highly abundant GSH in cancer cells. Consequently, the GSH-responsive ERα PROTAC (GSH-ER-P1) exhibits significantly enhanced degradation of ERα in cancer cells compared to that in normal cells, leading to a remarkable inhibition of breast cancer cell proliferation and less toxic effects on normal cells. This study provides a potentially valuable strategy for breast cancer treatment using tumor microenvironment-responsive PROTACs.
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Affiliation(s)
- Zhili Zhou
- Tianjin Institute of Immunology, Key Laboratory of Immune Microenvironment and Disease of the Ministry of Education, The Province and Ministry Co-sponsored Collaborative Innovation Center for Medical Epigenetics, Department of Immunology, School of Basic Medical Sciences, Tianjin Medical University General Hospital, Tianjin Medical University, Tianjin 300070. China
| | - Heli Fan
- Department of Chemical Biology, Key Laboratory on Technologies Enabling Development of Clinical Therapeutics and Diagnostics, School of Pharmacy, Tianjin Medical University, Tianjin 300070. China
| | - Dehao Yu
- Department of Chemical Biology, Key Laboratory on Technologies Enabling Development of Clinical Therapeutics and Diagnostics, School of Pharmacy, Tianjin Medical University, Tianjin 300070. China
| | - Fengying Shi
- Tianjin Institute of Immunology, Key Laboratory of Immune Microenvironment and Disease of the Ministry of Education, The Province and Ministry Co-sponsored Collaborative Innovation Center for Medical Epigenetics, Department of Immunology, School of Basic Medical Sciences, Tianjin Medical University General Hospital, Tianjin Medical University, Tianjin 300070. China
| | - Qianqian Li
- Tianjin Institute of Immunology, Key Laboratory of Immune Microenvironment and Disease of the Ministry of Education, The Province and Ministry Co-sponsored Collaborative Innovation Center for Medical Epigenetics, Department of Immunology, School of Basic Medical Sciences, Tianjin Medical University General Hospital, Tianjin Medical University, Tianjin 300070. China
| | - Zhenjian Zhang
- Tianjin Institute of Immunology, Key Laboratory of Immune Microenvironment and Disease of the Ministry of Education, The Province and Ministry Co-sponsored Collaborative Innovation Center for Medical Epigenetics, Department of Immunology, School of Basic Medical Sciences, Tianjin Medical University General Hospital, Tianjin Medical University, Tianjin 300070. China
| | - Xiaolu Wang
- Tianjin Institute of Immunology, Key Laboratory of Immune Microenvironment and Disease of the Ministry of Education, The Province and Ministry Co-sponsored Collaborative Innovation Center for Medical Epigenetics, Department of Immunology, School of Basic Medical Sciences, Tianjin Medical University General Hospital, Tianjin Medical University, Tianjin 300070. China
| | - Xuejun Zhang
- Tianjin Institute of Immunology, Key Laboratory of Immune Microenvironment and Disease of the Ministry of Education, The Province and Ministry Co-sponsored Collaborative Innovation Center for Medical Epigenetics, Department of Immunology, School of Basic Medical Sciences, Tianjin Medical University General Hospital, Tianjin Medical University, Tianjin 300070. China
| | - Cheng Dong
- Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, Key Laboratory of Immune Microenvironment and Disease (Ministry of Education), The Province and Ministry Co-sponsored Collaborative Innovation Center for Medical Epigenetics, School of Basic Medical Sciences, Tianjin Medical University, Tianjin 300070. China.
| | - Huabing Sun
- Department of Chemical Biology, Key Laboratory on Technologies Enabling Development of Clinical Therapeutics and Diagnostics, School of Pharmacy, Tianjin Medical University, Tianjin 300070. China.
| | - Wenyi Mi
- Tianjin Institute of Immunology, Key Laboratory of Immune Microenvironment and Disease of the Ministry of Education, The Province and Ministry Co-sponsored Collaborative Innovation Center for Medical Epigenetics, Department of Immunology, School of Basic Medical Sciences, Tianjin Medical University General Hospital, Tianjin Medical University, Tianjin 300070. China.
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47
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Ouyang M, Feng Y, Chen H, Liu Y, Tan C, Tan Y. Recent Advances in Optically Controlled PROTAC. Bioengineering (Basel) 2023; 10:1368. [PMID: 38135959 PMCID: PMC10740939 DOI: 10.3390/bioengineering10121368] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/24/2023] [Revised: 11/21/2023] [Accepted: 11/24/2023] [Indexed: 12/24/2023] Open
Abstract
Proteolysis-targeting chimera (PROTAC) technology is a groundbreaking therapeutic approach with significant clinical potential for degrading disease-inducing proteins within targeted cells. However, challenges related to insufficient target selectivity raise concerns about PROTAC toxicity toward normal cells. To address this issue, researchers are modifying PROTACs using various approaches to enhance their target specificity. This review highlights innovative optically controlled PROTACs as anti-cancer therapies currently used in clinical practice and explores the challenges associated with their efficacy and safety. The development of optically controlled PROTACs holds the potential to significantly expand the clinical applicability of PROTAC-based technology within the realm of drug discovery.
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Affiliation(s)
- Muzi Ouyang
- State Key Laboratory of Chemical Oncogenomics, Institute of Biomedical and Health Engineering, Shenzhen International Graduate School, Tsinghua University, Shenzhen 518055, China; (M.O.); (Y.F.); (H.C.); (Y.L.); (C.T.)
- Department of Chemistry, Tsinghua University, Beijing 100084, China
| | - Ying Feng
- State Key Laboratory of Chemical Oncogenomics, Institute of Biomedical and Health Engineering, Shenzhen International Graduate School, Tsinghua University, Shenzhen 518055, China; (M.O.); (Y.F.); (H.C.); (Y.L.); (C.T.)
| | - Hui Chen
- State Key Laboratory of Chemical Oncogenomics, Institute of Biomedical and Health Engineering, Shenzhen International Graduate School, Tsinghua University, Shenzhen 518055, China; (M.O.); (Y.F.); (H.C.); (Y.L.); (C.T.)
- Department of Chemistry, Tsinghua University, Beijing 100084, China
| | - Yanping Liu
- State Key Laboratory of Chemical Oncogenomics, Institute of Biomedical and Health Engineering, Shenzhen International Graduate School, Tsinghua University, Shenzhen 518055, China; (M.O.); (Y.F.); (H.C.); (Y.L.); (C.T.)
| | - Chunyan Tan
- State Key Laboratory of Chemical Oncogenomics, Institute of Biomedical and Health Engineering, Shenzhen International Graduate School, Tsinghua University, Shenzhen 518055, China; (M.O.); (Y.F.); (H.C.); (Y.L.); (C.T.)
- Department of Chemistry, Tsinghua University, Beijing 100084, China
| | - Ying Tan
- State Key Laboratory of Chemical Oncogenomics, Institute of Biomedical and Health Engineering, Shenzhen International Graduate School, Tsinghua University, Shenzhen 518055, China; (M.O.); (Y.F.); (H.C.); (Y.L.); (C.T.)
- Department of Chemistry, Tsinghua University, Beijing 100084, China
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48
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Jia Q, Zhang Y, Liu F, Dong W, Zhu L, Wang F, Jiang JH. Cell-Specific Degradation of Histone Deacetylase Using Warhead-Caged Proteolysis Targeting Chimeras. Anal Chem 2023; 95:16474-16480. [PMID: 37903331 DOI: 10.1021/acs.analchem.3c01236] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/01/2023]
Abstract
Proteolysis targeting chimeras (PROTACs) have shifted the paradigm for drug development via target protein degradation. However, PROTACs may exhibit systemic toxicity to normal cells due to indiscriminate degradation and the utility of inhibitors as a warhead for protein targeting. Here, we propose a new strategy for developing activatable PROTACs for cell-specific degradation of histone deacetylase (HDAC) with minimal side effects via caging of the warhead. Molecular docking reveals that the hydroxyl group of the HDAC inhibitor is crucial for targeting. An enzyme-activatable PROTAC is designed by caging the hydroxyl group with the substrate for NAD(P)H: quinone oxidoreductase 1 (NQO1) overexpressed in cancer cells. We demonstrate that the caged PROTAC can be converted to its active form in response to NQO1. The enzyme-activatable PROTAC allows the efficient and specific degradation of HDAC6 and exerts antiproliferative activity in NQO1-positive cells. The generalizability of the design is further demonstrated by engineering a H2O2-responsive PROTAC for specific degradation of HDAC6 in cells with elevated H2O2. The strategy of caging the ligand for target proteins would afford a new dimension for developing activatable PROTACs with high specificity and minimal side effects.
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Affiliation(s)
- Qi Jia
- State Key Laboratory of Chemo/Bio-Sensing and Chemometric, College of Chemistry and Chemical Engineering, Hunan University, Changsha 410082 P. R. China
| | - Yue Zhang
- State Key Laboratory of Chemo/Bio-Sensing and Chemometric, College of Chemistry and Chemical Engineering, Hunan University, Changsha 410082 P. R. China
| | - Feng Liu
- State Key Laboratory of Chemo/Bio-Sensing and Chemometric, College of Chemistry and Chemical Engineering, Hunan University, Changsha 410082 P. R. China
| | - Wanrong Dong
- State Key Laboratory of Chemo/Bio-Sensing and Chemometric, College of Chemistry and Chemical Engineering, Hunan University, Changsha 410082 P. R. China
| | - Lei Zhu
- State Key Laboratory of Chemo/Bio-Sensing and Chemometric, College of Chemistry and Chemical Engineering, Hunan University, Changsha 410082 P. R. China
| | - Fenglin Wang
- State Key Laboratory of Chemo/Bio-Sensing and Chemometric, College of Chemistry and Chemical Engineering, Hunan University, Changsha 410082 P. R. China
| | - Jian-Hui Jiang
- State Key Laboratory of Chemo/Bio-Sensing and Chemometric, College of Chemistry and Chemical Engineering, Hunan University, Changsha 410082 P. R. China
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49
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Sathe G, Sapkota GP. Proteomic approaches advancing targeted protein degradation. Trends Pharmacol Sci 2023; 44:786-801. [PMID: 37778939 DOI: 10.1016/j.tips.2023.08.007] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/24/2023] [Revised: 08/18/2023] [Accepted: 08/25/2023] [Indexed: 10/03/2023]
Abstract
Targeted protein degradation (TPD) is an emerging modality for research and therapeutics. Most TPD approaches harness cellular ubiquitin-dependent proteolytic pathways. Proteolysis-targeting chimeras (PROTACs) and molecular glue (MG) degraders (MGDs) represent the most advanced TPD approaches, with some already used in clinical settings. Despite these advances, TPD still faces many challenges, pertaining to both the development of effective, selective, and tissue-penetrant degraders and understanding their mode of action. In this review, we focus on progress made in addressing these challenges. In particular, we discuss the utility and application of recent proteomic approaches as indispensable tools to enable insights into degrader development, including target engagement, degradation selectivity, efficacy, safety, and mode of action.
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Affiliation(s)
- Gajanan Sathe
- MRC Protein Phosphorylation and Ubiquitylation Unit, School of Life Sciences, University of Dundee, Dundee DD1 5EH, UK.
| | - Gopal P Sapkota
- MRC Protein Phosphorylation and Ubiquitylation Unit, School of Life Sciences, University of Dundee, Dundee DD1 5EH, UK.
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50
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Yang Z, Pang Q, Zhou J, Xuan C, Xie S. Leveraging aptamers for targeted protein degradation. Trends Pharmacol Sci 2023; 44:776-785. [PMID: 37380531 DOI: 10.1016/j.tips.2023.05.008] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 9.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/23/2023] [Revised: 05/31/2023] [Accepted: 05/31/2023] [Indexed: 06/30/2023]
Abstract
Targeted protein degradation (TPD) technologies, particularly proteolysis-targeting chimeras (PROTACs), have emerged as a significant advancement in drug discovery. However, several hurdles - such as the difficulty of identifying suitable ligands for traditionally undruggable proteins, poor solubility and impermeability, nonspecific biodistribution, and on-target off-tissue toxicity - present challenges to their clinical applications. Aptamers are promising ligands for broad-ranging molecular recognition. Utilizing aptamers in TPD has shown potential advantages in overcoming these challenges. Here, we provide an overview of recent developments in aptamer-based TPD, emphasizing their potential to achieve targeted delivery and their promise for the spatiotemporal degradation of undruggable proteins. We also discuss the challenges and future directions of aptamer-based TPD with the goal of facilitating their clinical applications.
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Affiliation(s)
- Zhihao Yang
- The Province and Ministry Co-sponsored Collaborative Innovation Center for Medical Epigenetics, Key Laboratory of Immune Microenvironment and Disease (Ministry of Education), Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, Tianjin Medical University, Tianjin, China
| | - Qiuxiang Pang
- School of Life Sciences and Medicine, Shandong University of Technology, Zibo, China
| | - Jun Zhou
- Center for Cell Structure and Function, Shandong Provincial Key Laboratory of Animal Resistance Biology, Collaborative Innovation Center of Cell Biology in Universities of Shandong, College of Life Sciences, Shandong Normal University, Jinan, China; Department of Genetics and Cell Biology, State Key Laboratory of Medicinal Chemical Biology, Haihe Laboratory of Cell Ecosystem, College of Life Sciences, Nankai University, Tianjin, China
| | - Chenghao Xuan
- The Province and Ministry Co-sponsored Collaborative Innovation Center for Medical Epigenetics, Key Laboratory of Immune Microenvironment and Disease (Ministry of Education), Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, Tianjin Medical University, Tianjin, China.
| | - Songbo Xie
- School of Life Sciences and Medicine, Shandong University of Technology, Zibo, China; Center for Cell Structure and Function, Shandong Provincial Key Laboratory of Animal Resistance Biology, Collaborative Innovation Center of Cell Biology in Universities of Shandong, College of Life Sciences, Shandong Normal University, Jinan, China.
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