51
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Sternicki LM, Nonomiya J, Liu M, Mulvihill MM, Quinn RJ. Native Mass Spectrometry for the Study of PROTAC GNE-987-Containing Ternary Complexes. ChemMedChem 2021; 16:2206-2210. [PMID: 33792163 PMCID: PMC8359942 DOI: 10.1002/cmdc.202100113] [Citation(s) in RCA: 16] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/12/2021] [Indexed: 12/14/2022]
Abstract
PROteolysis TArgeting Chimeras (PROTACs) promote the degradation, rather than inhibition, of a drug target as a mechanism for therapeutic treatment. Bifunctional PROTAC molecules allow simultaneous binding of both the target protein and an E3-Ubiquitin ligase, bringing the two proteins into close spatial proximity to allow ubiquitinylation and degradation of the target protein via the cell's endogenous protein degradation pathway. We utilized native mass spectrometry (MS) to study the ternary complexes promoted by the previously reported PROTAC GNE-987 between Brd4 bromodomains 1 and 2, and Von Hippel Lindeau E3-Ubiquitin Ligase. Native MS at high resolution allowed us to measure ternary complex formation as a function of PROTAC concentration to provide a measure of complex affinity and stability, whilst simultaneously measuring other intermediate protein species. Native MS provides a high-throughput, low sample consumption, direct screening method to measure ternary complexes for PROTAC development.
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Affiliation(s)
- Louise M. Sternicki
- Griffith Institute for Drug DiscoveryGriffith University46 Don Young RoadNathanQLD 4111Australia
| | - Jim Nonomiya
- Genentech Inc.1 DNA WaySouth San FranciscoCA 94080USA
| | - Miaomiao Liu
- Griffith Institute for Drug DiscoveryGriffith University46 Don Young RoadNathanQLD 4111Australia
| | | | - Ronald J. Quinn
- Griffith Institute for Drug DiscoveryGriffith University46 Don Young RoadNathanQLD 4111Australia
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Barghout SH. Targeted Protein Degradation: An Emerging Therapeutic Strategy in Cancer. Anticancer Agents Med Chem 2021; 21:214-230. [PMID: 32275492 DOI: 10.2174/1871520620666200410082652] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/30/2019] [Revised: 01/20/2020] [Accepted: 02/19/2020] [Indexed: 11/22/2022]
Abstract
Drug discovery in the scope of cancer therapy has been focused on conventional agents that nonselectively induce DNA damage or selectively inhibit the activity of key oncogenic molecules without affecting their protein levels. An emerging therapeutic strategy that garnered attention in recent years is the induction of Targeted Protein Degradation (TPD) of cellular targets by hijacking the intracellular proteolysis machinery. This novel approach offers several advantages over conventional inhibitors and introduces a paradigm shift in several pharmacological aspects of drug therapy. While TPD has been found to be the major mode of action of clinically approved anticancer agents such as fulvestrant and thalidomide, recent years have witnessed systematic endeavors to expand the repertoire of proteins amenable to therapeutic ablation by TPD. Such endeavors have led to three major classes of agents that induce protein degradation, including molecular glues, Proteolysis Targeting Chimeras (PROTACs) and Hydrophobic Tag (HyT)-based degraders. Here, we briefly highlight agents in these classes and key advances made in the field with a focus on clinical translation in cancer therapy.
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Affiliation(s)
- Samir H Barghout
- Department of Pharmacology and Toxicology, Faculty of Pharmacy, Tanta University, Tanta, Egypt
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53
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Sun Y, Zhang Z, Zhang K, Liu Y, Shen P, Cai M, Jia C, Wang W, Gu Z, Ma P, Lu H, Guan L, Di W, Zhuang G, Yin X. Epigenetic heterogeneity promotes acquired resistance to BET bromodomain inhibition in ovarian cancer. Am J Cancer Res 2021; 11:3021-3038. [PMID: 34249442 PMCID: PMC8263684] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/24/2020] [Accepted: 01/20/2021] [Indexed: 06/13/2023] Open
Abstract
BET bromodomain inhibitors (BETi) are promising therapeutic regimens for epithelial ovarian cancer (EOC). However, early-stage clinical trials indicate that drug tolerance may limit their anti-tumor efficacy. Here, we show that JQ1-refractory EOC cells acquire reversible resistance to BET inhibition and remain dependent on BRD4 function. The insensitivity is driven by a unique non-genetic mechanism that involves clonal selection for a pre-existing cell subpopulation with ample acetylated histones and sufficient nuclear phase-separated BRD4 droplets to counteract BETi antagonism. A vertical combination approach by co-blocking BET proteins and downstream Aurora kinases proves to achieve more complete responses than single inhibitors. Collectively, our study implicates epigenetic heterogeneity in therapeutic resistance to chromatin-targeted agents and proposes a rational strategy to address this anticipated clinical dilemma.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yunheng Sun
- State Key Laboratory of Oncogenes and Related Genes, Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Ren Ji Hospital, School of Medicine, Shanghai Jiao Tong UniversityShanghai, China
- Shanghai Key Laboratory of Gynecologic Oncology, Ren Ji Hospital, School of Medicine, Shanghai Jiao Tong UniversityShanghai, China
| | - Zhenfeng Zhang
- State Key Laboratory of Oncogenes and Related Genes, Shanghai Cancer Institute, Ren Ji Hospital, School of Medicine, Shanghai Jiao Tong UniversityShanghai, China
| | - Ke Zhang
- Department of Oncology, Rizhao People’s HospitalShandong, China
| | - Yuxia Liu
- Scientific Research Department, Peking Union Medical College HospitalBeijing, China
| | - Peiye Shen
- State Key Laboratory of Oncogenes and Related Genes, Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Ren Ji Hospital, School of Medicine, Shanghai Jiao Tong UniversityShanghai, China
- Shanghai Key Laboratory of Gynecologic Oncology, Ren Ji Hospital, School of Medicine, Shanghai Jiao Tong UniversityShanghai, China
| | - Meichun Cai
- State Key Laboratory of Oncogenes and Related Genes, Shanghai Cancer Institute, Ren Ji Hospital, School of Medicine, Shanghai Jiao Tong UniversityShanghai, China
| | - Chenqiang Jia
- State Key Laboratory of Oncogenes and Related Genes, Shanghai Cancer Institute, Ren Ji Hospital, School of Medicine, Shanghai Jiao Tong UniversityShanghai, China
- School of Biomedical Engineering & Med-X Research Institute, Shanghai Jiao Tong UniversityShanghai, China
| | - Wenjing Wang
- State Key Laboratory of Oncogenes and Related Genes, Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Ren Ji Hospital, School of Medicine, Shanghai Jiao Tong UniversityShanghai, China
- Shanghai Key Laboratory of Gynecologic Oncology, Ren Ji Hospital, School of Medicine, Shanghai Jiao Tong UniversityShanghai, China
| | - Zhuowei Gu
- State Key Laboratory of Oncogenes and Related Genes, Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Ren Ji Hospital, School of Medicine, Shanghai Jiao Tong UniversityShanghai, China
- Shanghai Key Laboratory of Gynecologic Oncology, Ren Ji Hospital, School of Medicine, Shanghai Jiao Tong UniversityShanghai, China
| | - Pengfei Ma
- State Key Laboratory of Oncogenes and Related Genes, Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Ren Ji Hospital, School of Medicine, Shanghai Jiao Tong UniversityShanghai, China
- Shanghai Key Laboratory of Gynecologic Oncology, Ren Ji Hospital, School of Medicine, Shanghai Jiao Tong UniversityShanghai, China
| | - Huaiwu Lu
- Department of Gynecologic Oncology, Sun Yat-sen Memorial Hospital, Sun Yat-Sen UniversityGuangzhou, China
| | - Lei Guan
- Department of Anesthesiology, Capital Medical University, Beijing Shijitan HospitalBeijing, China
| | - Wen Di
- State Key Laboratory of Oncogenes and Related Genes, Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Ren Ji Hospital, School of Medicine, Shanghai Jiao Tong UniversityShanghai, China
- Shanghai Key Laboratory of Gynecologic Oncology, Ren Ji Hospital, School of Medicine, Shanghai Jiao Tong UniversityShanghai, China
| | - Guanglei Zhuang
- State Key Laboratory of Oncogenes and Related Genes, Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Ren Ji Hospital, School of Medicine, Shanghai Jiao Tong UniversityShanghai, China
- Shanghai Key Laboratory of Gynecologic Oncology, Ren Ji Hospital, School of Medicine, Shanghai Jiao Tong UniversityShanghai, China
| | - Xia Yin
- State Key Laboratory of Oncogenes and Related Genes, Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Ren Ji Hospital, School of Medicine, Shanghai Jiao Tong UniversityShanghai, China
- Shanghai Key Laboratory of Gynecologic Oncology, Ren Ji Hospital, School of Medicine, Shanghai Jiao Tong UniversityShanghai, China
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54
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Sun D, Nikonova AS, Zhang P, Deneka AY, Fitzgerald ME, Michael RE, Lee L, Lilly AC, Fisher SL, Phillips AJ, Nasveschuk CG, Proia DA, Tu Z, Golemis EA. Evaluation of the Small-molecule BRD4 Degrader CFT-2718 in Small-cell Lung Cancer and Pancreatic Cancer Models. Mol Cancer Ther 2021; 20:1367-1377. [PMID: 34045230 DOI: 10.1158/1535-7163.mct-20-0831] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/25/2020] [Revised: 02/25/2021] [Accepted: 04/05/2021] [Indexed: 01/03/2023]
Abstract
Targeted, catalytic degradation of oncoproteins using heterobifunctional small molecules is an attractive modality, particularly for hematologic malignancies, which are often initiated by aberrant transcription factors and are challenging to drug with inhibitors. BRD4, a member of the bromodomain and extraterminal family, is a core transcriptional and epigenetic regulator that recruits the P-TEFb complex, which includes Cdk9 and cyclin T, to RNA polymerase II (pol II). Together, BRD4 and CDK9 phosphorylate serine 2 (pSer2) of heptad repeats in the C-terminal domain of RPB1, the large subunit of pol II, promote transcriptional elongation. Small-molecule degraders of BRD4 have shown encouraging efficacy in preclinical models for several tumor types but less efficacy in other cancers including small-cell lung cancer (SCLC) and pancreatic cancer. Here, we evaluated CFT-2718, a new BRD4-targeting degrader with enhanced catalytic activity and in vivo properties. In vivo, CFT-2718 has significantly greater efficacy than the CDK9 inhibitor dinaciclib in reducing growth of the LX-36 SCLC patient-derived xenograft (PDX) model and performed comparably to dinaciclib in limiting growth of the PNX-001 pancreatic PDX model. In vitro, CFT-2718 reduced cell viability in four SCLC and two pancreatic cancer models. In SCLC models, this activity significantly exceeded that of dinaciclib; furthermore, CFT-2718 selectively increased the expression of cleaved PARP, an indicator of apoptosis. CFT-2718 caused rapid BRD4 degradation and reduced levels of total and pSer2 RPB1 protein. These and other findings suggest that BRD-mediated transcriptional suppression merits further exploration in the setting of SCLC.
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Affiliation(s)
- Danlin Sun
- Program in Molecular Therapeutics, Fox Chase Cancer Center, Philadelphia, Pennsylvania.,Institute of Life Sciences, Jiangsu University, Jinkou District, Zhenjiang, Jiangsu, China
| | - Anna S Nikonova
- Program in Molecular Therapeutics, Fox Chase Cancer Center, Philadelphia, Pennsylvania
| | - Peishan Zhang
- Program in Molecular Therapeutics, Fox Chase Cancer Center, Philadelphia, Pennsylvania.,Institute of Life Sciences, Jiangsu University, Jinkou District, Zhenjiang, Jiangsu, China
| | - Alexander Y Deneka
- Program in Molecular Therapeutics, Fox Chase Cancer Center, Philadelphia, Pennsylvania
| | | | | | - Linda Lee
- C4 Therapeutics, Inc., Watertown, Massachusetts
| | - Anna C Lilly
- Program in Molecular Therapeutics, Fox Chase Cancer Center, Philadelphia, Pennsylvania.,Drexel University College of Medicine, Philadelphia, Pennsylvania
| | | | | | | | | | - Zhigang Tu
- Institute of Life Sciences, Jiangsu University, Jinkou District, Zhenjiang, Jiangsu, China.
| | - Erica A Golemis
- Program in Molecular Therapeutics, Fox Chase Cancer Center, Philadelphia, Pennsylvania.
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55
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Giardina SF, Valdambrini E, Warren JD, Barany F. PROTACs: Promising Approaches for Epigenetic Strategies to Overcome Drug Resistance. Curr Cancer Drug Targets 2021; 21:306-325. [PMID: 33535953 DOI: 10.2174/1568009621666210203110857] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/19/2020] [Revised: 08/26/2020] [Accepted: 12/03/2020] [Indexed: 11/22/2022]
Abstract
Epigenetic modulation of gene expression is essential for tissue-specific development and maintenance in mammalian cells. Disruption of epigenetic processes, and the subsequent alteration of gene functions, can result in inappropriate activation or inhibition of various cellular signaling pathways, leading to cancer. Recent advancements in the understanding of the role of epigenetics in cancer initiation and progression have uncovered functions for DNA methylation, histone modifications, nucleosome positioning, and non-coding RNAs. Epigenetic therapies have shown some promise for hematological malignancies, and a wide range of epigenetic-based drugs are undergoing clinical trials. However, in a dynamic survival strategy, cancer cells exploit their heterogeneous population which frequently results in the rapid acquisition of therapy resistance. Here, we describe novel approaches in drug discovery targeting the epigenome, highlighting recent advances the selective degradation of target proteins using Proteolysis Targeting Chimera (PROTAC) to address drug resistance.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sarah F Giardina
- Department of Microbiology and Immunology, Weill Cornell Medicine, 1300 York Ave, Box 62, New York, NY, United States
| | - Elena Valdambrini
- Department of Microbiology and Immunology, Weill Cornell Medicine, 1300 York Ave, Box 62, New York, NY, United States
| | - J David Warren
- Department of Biochemistry, Weill Cornell Medicine, 1300 York Ave, Box 63, New York, NY, 10065, United States
| | - Francis Barany
- Department of Microbiology and Immunology, Weill Cornell Medicine, 1300 York Ave, Box 62, New York, NY, United States
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56
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Gonzales F, Barthélémy A, Peyrouze P, Fenwarth L, Preudhomme C, Duployez N, Cheok MH. Targeting RUNX1 in acute myeloid leukemia: preclinical innovations and therapeutic implications. Expert Opin Ther Targets 2021; 25:299-309. [PMID: 33906574 DOI: 10.1080/14728222.2021.1915991] [Citation(s) in RCA: 12] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/24/2022]
Abstract
Introduction: RUNX1 is an essential transcription factor for normal and malignant hematopoiesis. RUNX1 forms a heterodimeric complex with CBFB. Germline mutations and somatic alterations (i.e. translocations, mutations and abnormal expression) are frequently associated with acute myeloid leukemia (AML) with RUNX1 mutations conferring unfavorable prognosis. Therefore, RUNX1 constitutes a potential innovative and interesting therapeutic target. In this review, we discuss recent therapeutic advances of RUNX1 targeting in AML.Areas covered: Firstly, we cover the clinical basis for RUNX1 targeting. We have subdivided recent therapeutic approaches either by common biochemical pathways or by similar pharmacological targets. Genome editing of RUNX1 induces anti-leukemic effects; however, off-target events prohibit clinical use. Several molecules inhibit the interaction between RUNX1/CBFB and control AML development and progression. BET protein antagonists target RUNX1 (i.e. specific BET inhibitors, BRD4 shRNRA, proteolysis targeting chimeras (PROTAC) or expression-mimickers). All these molecules improve survival in mutant RUNX1 AML preclinical models.Expert opinion: Some of these novel molecules have shown encouraging anti-leukemic potency at the preclinical stage. A better understanding of RUNX1 function in AML development and progression and its key downstream pathways, may result in more precise and more efficient RUNX1 targeting therapies.
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Affiliation(s)
- Fanny Gonzales
- Factors of Leukemic cell Persistence, Univ. Lille, CNRS, Inserm, CHU Lille, IRCL, Canther, Lille, France.,Pediatric Hematology Department, University Hospital of Lille, Lille, France
| | - Adeline Barthélémy
- Factors of Leukemic cell Persistence, Univ. Lille, CNRS, Inserm, CHU Lille, IRCL, Canther, Lille, France
| | - Pauline Peyrouze
- Factors of Leukemic cell Persistence, Univ. Lille, CNRS, Inserm, CHU Lille, IRCL, Canther, Lille, France
| | - Laurène Fenwarth
- Factors of Leukemic cell Persistence, Univ. Lille, CNRS, Inserm, CHU Lille, IRCL, Canther, Lille, France.,Laboratory of Hematology, CHU Lille, Lille, France
| | - Claude Preudhomme
- Factors of Leukemic cell Persistence, Univ. Lille, CNRS, Inserm, CHU Lille, IRCL, Canther, Lille, France.,Laboratory of Hematology, CHU Lille, Lille, France
| | - Nicolas Duployez
- Factors of Leukemic cell Persistence, Univ. Lille, CNRS, Inserm, CHU Lille, IRCL, Canther, Lille, France.,Laboratory of Hematology, CHU Lille, Lille, France
| | - Meyling H Cheok
- Factors of Leukemic cell Persistence, Univ. Lille, CNRS, Inserm, CHU Lille, IRCL, Canther, Lille, France
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57
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BRD4 PROTAC degrader ARV-825 inhibits T-cell acute lymphoblastic leukemia by targeting 'Undruggable' Myc-pathway genes. Cancer Cell Int 2021; 21:230. [PMID: 33888130 PMCID: PMC8061034 DOI: 10.1186/s12935-021-01908-w] [Citation(s) in RCA: 33] [Impact Index Per Article: 11.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/13/2020] [Accepted: 04/07/2021] [Indexed: 12/16/2022] Open
Abstract
Background T-cell acute lymphoblastic leukemia (T-ALL) is an aggressive disease with a high risk of induction failure and poor outcomes, with relapse due to drug resistance. Recent studies show that bromodomains and extra-terminal (BET) protein inhibitors are promising anti-cancer agents. ARV-825, comprising a BET inhibitor conjugated with cereblon ligand, was recently developed to attenuate the growth of multiple tumors in vitro and in vivo. However, the functional and molecular mechanisms of ARV-825 in T-ALL remain unclear. This study aimed to investigate the therapeutic efficacy and potential mechanism of ARV-825 in T-ALL. Methods Expression of the BRD4 were determined in pediatric T-ALL samples and differential gene expression after ARV-825 treatment was explored by RNA-seq and quantitative reverse transcription-polymerase chain reaction. T-ALL cell viability was measured by CCK8 assay after ARV-825 administration. Cell cycle was analyzed by propidium iodide (PI) staining and apoptosis was assessed by Annexin V/PI staining. BRD4, BRD3 and BRD2 proteins were detected by western blot in cells treated with ARV-825. The effect of ARV-825 on T-ALL cells was analyzed in vivo. The functional and molecular pathways involved in ARV-825 treatment of T-ALL were verified by western blot and chromatin immunoprecipitation (ChIP). Results BRD4 expression was higher in pediatric T-ALL samples compared with T-cells from healthy donors. High BRD4 expression indicated a poor outcome. ARV-825 suppressed cell proliferation in vitro by arresting the cell cycle and inducing apoptosis, with elevated poly-ADP ribose polymerase and cleaved caspase 3. BRD4, BRD3, and BRD2 were degraded in line with reduced cereblon expression in T-ALL cells. ARV-825 had a lower IC50 in T-ALL cells compared with JQ1, dBET1 and OTX015. ARV-825 perturbed the H3K27Ac-Myc pathway and reduced c-Myc protein levels in T-ALL cells according to RNA-seq and ChIP. In the T-ALL xenograft model, ARV-825 significantly reduced tumor growth and led to the dysregulation of Ki67 and cleaved caspase 3. Moreover, ARV-825 inhibited cell proliferation by depleting BET and c-Myc proteins in vitro and in vivo. Conclusions BRD4 indicates a poor prognosis in T-ALL. The BRD4 degrader ARV-825 can effectively suppress the proliferation and promote apoptosis of T-ALL cells via BET protein depletion and c-Myc inhibition, thus providing a new strategy for the treatment of T-ALL. Supplementary Information The online version contains supplementary material available at 10.1186/s12935-021-01908-w.
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Shahin OA, Chifotides HT, Bose P, Masarova L, Verstovsek S. Accelerated Phase of Myeloproliferative Neoplasms. Acta Haematol 2021; 144:484-499. [PMID: 33882481 DOI: 10.1159/000512929] [Citation(s) in RCA: 23] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/18/2020] [Accepted: 11/09/2020] [Indexed: 12/27/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Myeloproliferative neoplasms (MPNs) can transform into blast phase MPN (leukemic transformation; MPN-BP), typically via accelerated phase MPN (MPN-AP), in ∼20-25% of the cases. MPN-AP and MPN-BP are characterized by 10-19% and ≥20% blasts, respectively. MPN-AP/BP portend a dismal prognosis with no established conventional treatment. Allogeneic hematopoietic stem cell transplantation (allo-HSCT) is the sole modality associated with long-term survival. SUMMARY MPN-AP/BP has a markedly different mutational profile from de novo acute myeloid leukemia (AML). In MPN-AP/BP, TP53 and IDH1/2 are more frequent, whereas FLT3 and DNMT3A are rare. Higher incidence of leukemic transformation has been associated with the most aggressive MPN subtype, myelofibrosis (MF); other risk factors for leukemic transformation include rising blast counts above 3-5%, advanced age, severe anemia, thrombocytopenia, leukocytosis, increasing bone marrow fibrosis, type 1 CALR-unmutated status, lack of driver mutations (negative for JAK2, CALR, or MPL genes), adverse cytogenetics, and acquisition of ≥2 high-molecular risk mutations (ASXL1, EZH2, IDH1/2, SRSF2, and U2AF1Q157). The aforementioned factors have been incorporated in several novel prognostic scoring systems for MF. Currently, elderly/unfit patients with MPN-AP/BP are treated with hypomethylating agents with/without ruxolitinib; these regimens appear to confer comparable benefit to intensive chemotherapy but with lower toxicity. Retrospective studies in patients who acquired actionable mutations during MPN-AP/BP showed positive outcomes with targeted AML treatments, such as IDH1/2 inhibitors, and require further evaluation in clinical trials. Key Messages: Therapy for MPN-AP patients represents an unmet medical need. MF patients, in particular, should be appropriately stratified regarding their prognosis and the risk for transformation. Higher-risk patients should be monitored regularly and treated prior to progression to MPN-BP. MPN-AP patients may be treated with hypomethylating agents alone or in combination with ruxolitinib; also, patients can be provided with the option to enroll in rationally designed clinical trials exploring combination regimens, including novel targeted drugs, with an ultimate goal to transition to transplant.
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Affiliation(s)
- Omar A Shahin
- Department of Leukemia, The University of Texas MD Anderson Cancer Center, Houston, Texas, USA
| | - Helen T Chifotides
- Department of Leukemia, The University of Texas MD Anderson Cancer Center, Houston, Texas, USA
| | - Prithviraj Bose
- Department of Leukemia, The University of Texas MD Anderson Cancer Center, Houston, Texas, USA
| | - Lucia Masarova
- Department of Leukemia, The University of Texas MD Anderson Cancer Center, Houston, Texas, USA
| | - Srdan Verstovsek
- Department of Leukemia, The University of Texas MD Anderson Cancer Center, Houston, Texas, USA
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Cecchini C, Pannilunghi S, Tardy S, Scapozza L. From Conception to Development: Investigating PROTACs Features for Improved Cell Permeability and Successful Protein Degradation. Front Chem 2021; 9:672267. [PMID: 33959589 PMCID: PMC8093871 DOI: 10.3389/fchem.2021.672267] [Citation(s) in RCA: 64] [Impact Index Per Article: 21.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/25/2021] [Accepted: 03/22/2021] [Indexed: 01/16/2023] Open
Abstract
Proteolysis Targeting Chimeras (PROTACs) are heterobifunctional degraders that specifically eliminate targeted proteins by hijacking the ubiquitin-proteasome system (UPS). This modality has emerged as an orthogonal approach to the use of small-molecule inhibitors for knocking down classic targets and disease-related proteins classified, until now, as "undruggable." In early 2019, the first targeted protein degraders reached the clinic, drawing attention to PROTACs as one of the most appealing technology in the drug discovery landscape. Despite these promising results, PROTACs are often affected by poor cellular permeability due to their high molecular weight (MW) and large exposed polar surface area (PSA). Herein, we report a comprehensive record of PROTAC design, pharmacology and thermodynamic challenges and solutions, as well as some of the available strategies to enhance cellular uptake, including suggestions of promising biological tools for the in vitro evaluation of PROTACs permeability toward successful protein degradation.
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Affiliation(s)
- Carlotta Cecchini
- School of Pharmaceutical Sciences, University of Geneva, Geneva, Switzerland
- Pharmaceutical Biochemistry/Chemistry, Institute of Pharmaceutical Sciences of Western Switzerland, University of Geneva, Geneva, Switzerland
| | - Sara Pannilunghi
- School of Pharmaceutical Sciences, University of Geneva, Geneva, Switzerland
- Pharmaceutical Biochemistry/Chemistry, Institute of Pharmaceutical Sciences of Western Switzerland, University of Geneva, Geneva, Switzerland
| | - Sébastien Tardy
- School of Pharmaceutical Sciences, University of Geneva, Geneva, Switzerland
- Pharmaceutical Biochemistry/Chemistry, Institute of Pharmaceutical Sciences of Western Switzerland, University of Geneva, Geneva, Switzerland
| | - Leonardo Scapozza
- School of Pharmaceutical Sciences, University of Geneva, Geneva, Switzerland
- Pharmaceutical Biochemistry/Chemistry, Institute of Pharmaceutical Sciences of Western Switzerland, University of Geneva, Geneva, Switzerland
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Meng Y, Qian X, Zhao L, Li N, Wu S, Chen B, Sun T, Wang X. Trichostatin A downregulates bromodomain and extra-terminal proteins to suppress osimertinib resistant non-small cell lung carcinoma. Cancer Cell Int 2021; 21:216. [PMID: 33858423 PMCID: PMC8050891 DOI: 10.1186/s12935-021-01914-y] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/31/2020] [Accepted: 04/07/2021] [Indexed: 01/07/2023] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND The third-generation epithelial growth factor receptor tyrosine kinase inhibitors (EGFR-TKIs) have shown significant therapeutic effects on patients with non-small cell lung carcinoma (NSCLC) who carry active EGFR mutations, as well as those who have developed acquired resistance to the first-generation of EGFR-TKIs due to the T790M mutation. However, most patients develop drug resistance after 8-10 months of treatment. Currently, the mechanism has not been well clarified, and new therapeutic strategies are urgently needed. METHODS Osimertinib resistant cell lines were established by culturing sensitive cells in chronically increasing doses of osimertinib. The anticancer effect of reagents was examined both in vitro and in vivo using the sulforhodamine B assay and a xenograft mouse model. The molecular signals were detected by western blotting. The combination effect was analyzed using CompuSyn software. RESULTS We found that bromodomain and extra-terminal proteins (BETs) were upregulated in osimertinib resistant (H1975-OR) cells compared with those in the paired parental cells (H1975-P), and that knockdown of BETs significantly inhibited the growth of H1975-OR cells. The BET inhibitor JQ1 also exhibited stronger growth-inhibitory effects on H1975-OR cells and a greater expression of BETs and the downstream effector c-Myc than were observed in H1975-P cells. The histone deacetylase (HDAC) inhibitor trichostatin A (TSA) showed stronger growth suppression in H1975-OR cells than in H1975-P cells, but vorinostat, another HDAC inhibitor, showed equal inhibitory efficacy in both cell types. Consistently, downregulation of BET and c-Myc expression was greater with TSA than with vorinostat. TSA restrained the growth of H1975-OR and H1975-P xenograft tumors. The combination of TSA and JQ1 showed synergistic growth-inhibitory effects in parallel with decreased BET and c-Myc expression in both H1975-OR and H1975-P cells and in xenograft nude mouse models. BETs were not upregulated in osimertinib resistant HCC827 cells compared with parental cells, while TSA and vorinostat exhibited equal inhibitory effects on both cell types. CONCLUSION Upregulation of BETs contributed to the osimertinib resistance of H1975 cells. TSA downregulated BET expression and enhanced the growth inhibitory effect of JQ1 both in vitro and in vivo. Our findings provided new strategies for the treatment of osimertinib resistance.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yuting Meng
- Department of Pharmacology, Nanjing Medical University, 140 Hanzhong Road, Nanjing, 210029, Jiangsu Province, China
| | - Xixi Qian
- Department of Pharmacology, Nanjing Medical University, 140 Hanzhong Road, Nanjing, 210029, Jiangsu Province, China
| | - Li Zhao
- Department of Pharmacology, Nanjing Medical University, 140 Hanzhong Road, Nanjing, 210029, Jiangsu Province, China
| | - Nan Li
- Department of Pharmacology, Nanjing Medical University, 140 Hanzhong Road, Nanjing, 210029, Jiangsu Province, China
| | - Shengjie Wu
- Department of Pharmacology, Sir Run Run Shaw Hospital, School of Medicine, Zhejiang University, Hangzhou, 310000, Zhejiang, China
| | - Baoan Chen
- Department of Hematology and Oncology, Zhongda Hospital, School of Medicine, Southeast University, Nanjing, 210009, Jiangsu, China
| | - Tong Sun
- Laboratory of Human Functional Genomics of Jiangsu Province, Nanjing Medical University, 101 Longmiandadao, Nanjing, 211166, Jiangsu Province, China.
| | - Xuerong Wang
- Department of Pharmacology, Nanjing Medical University, 140 Hanzhong Road, Nanjing, 210029, Jiangsu Province, China. .,Laboratory of Human Functional Genomics of Jiangsu Province, Nanjing Medical University, 101 Longmiandadao, Nanjing, 211166, Jiangsu Province, China.
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Alabi SB, Crews CM. Major advances in targeted protein degradation: PROTACs, LYTACs, and MADTACs. J Biol Chem 2021; 296:100647. [PMID: 33839157 PMCID: PMC8131913 DOI: 10.1016/j.jbc.2021.100647] [Citation(s) in RCA: 110] [Impact Index Per Article: 36.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/17/2020] [Revised: 04/05/2021] [Accepted: 04/07/2021] [Indexed: 02/06/2023] Open
Abstract
Of late, targeted protein degradation (TPD) has surfaced as a novel and innovative chemical tool and therapeutic modality. By co-opting protein degradation pathways, TPD facilitates complete removal of the protein molecules from within or outside the cell. While the pioneering Proteolysis-Targeting Chimera (PROTAC) technology and molecular glues hijack the ubiquitin-proteasome system, newer modalities co-opt autophagy or the endo-lysosomal pathway. Using this mechanism, TPD is posited to largely expand the druggable space far beyond small-molecule inhibitors. In this review, we discuss the major advances in TPD, highlight our current understanding, and explore outstanding questions in the field.
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Affiliation(s)
- Shanique B Alabi
- Department of Pharmacology, Yale University, New Haven, Connecticut, USA
| | - Craig M Crews
- Department of Pharmacology, Yale University, New Haven, Connecticut, USA; Molecular, Cellular, and Developmental Biology, Yale University, New Haven, Connecticut, USA; Department of Chemistry, Yale University, New Haven, Connecticut, USA.
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Targeting the Ubiquitin Signaling Cascade in Tumor Microenvironment for Cancer Therapy. Int J Mol Sci 2021; 22:ijms22020791. [PMID: 33466790 PMCID: PMC7830467 DOI: 10.3390/ijms22020791] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/18/2020] [Revised: 01/08/2021] [Accepted: 01/11/2021] [Indexed: 12/11/2022] Open
Abstract
Tumor microenvironments are composed of a myriad of elements, both cellular (immune cells, cancer-associated fibroblasts, mesenchymal stem cells, etc.) and non-cellular (extracellular matrix, cytokines, growth factors, etc.), which collectively provide a permissive environment enabling tumor progression. In this review, we focused on the regulation of tumor microenvironment through ubiquitination. Ubiquitination is a reversible protein post-translational modification that regulates various key biological processes, whereby ubiquitin is attached to substrates through a catalytic cascade coordinated by multiple enzymes, including E1 ubiquitin-activating enzymes, E2 ubiquitin-conjugating enzymes and E3 ubiquitin ligases. In contrast, ubiquitin can be removed by deubiquitinases in the process of deubiquitination. Here, we discuss the roles of E3 ligases and deubiquitinases as modulators of both cellular and non-cellular components in tumor microenvironment, providing potential therapeutic targets for cancer therapy. Finally, we introduced several emerging technologies that can be utilized to develop effective therapeutic agents for targeting tumor microenvironment.
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63
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Fuchs O, Bokorova R. Preclinical Studies of PROTACs in Hematological Malignancies. Cardiovasc Hematol Disord Drug Targets 2021; 21:7-22. [PMID: 33687890 DOI: 10.2174/1871529x21666210308111546] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/04/2020] [Revised: 01/01/2021] [Accepted: 01/23/2021] [Indexed: 06/12/2023]
Abstract
Incorrectly expressed or mutated proteins associated with hematologic malignancies have been generally targeted by chemotherapy using small-molecule inhibitors or monoclonal antibodies. But the majority of these intracellular proteins are without active sites and antigens. PROTACs, proteolysis targeting chimeras, are bifunctional molecules designed to polyubiquitinate and degrade specific pathological proteins of interest (POIs) by hijacking the activity of E3-ubiquitin ligases for POI polyubiquitination and subsequent degradation by the proteasome. This strategy utilizes the ubiquitin-proteasome system for the degradation of specific proteins in the cell. In many cases, including hematologic malignancies, inducing protein degradation as a therapeutic strategy offers therapeutic benefits over classical enzyme inhibition connected with resistance to inhibitors. Limitations of small-molecule inhibitors are shown. PROTACs can polyubiquitinate and mark for degradation of "undruggable"proteins, e.g. transcription factor STAT3 and scaffold proteins. Today, this technology is used in preclinical studies in various hematologic malignancies, mainly for targeting drug-resistant bromodomain and extraterminal proteins and Bruton tyrosine kinase. Several mechanisms limiting selectivity and safety of PROTAC molecules function are also discussed.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ota Fuchs
- Department of Genomics, Institute of Hematology and Blood Transfusion, Prague, Czech Republic
| | - Radka Bokorova
- Department of Genomics, Institute of Hematology and Blood Transfusion, Prague, Czech Republic
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Shirasaki R, Matthews GM, Gandolfi S, de Matos Simoes R, Buckley DL, Raja Vora J, Sievers QL, Brüggenthies JB, Dashevsky O, Poarch H, Tang H, Bariteau MA, Sheffer M, Hu Y, Downey-Kopyscinski SL, Hengeveld PJ, Glassner BJ, Dhimolea E, Ott CJ, Zhang T, Kwiatkowski NP, Laubach JP, Schlossman RL, Richardson PG, Culhane AC, Groen RWJ, Fischer ES, Vazquez F, Tsherniak A, Hahn WC, Levy J, Auclair D, Licht JD, Keats JJ, Boise LH, Ebert BL, Bradner JE, Gray NS, Mitsiades CS. Functional Genomics Identify Distinct and Overlapping Genes Mediating Resistance to Different Classes of Heterobifunctional Degraders of Oncoproteins. Cell Rep 2021; 34:108532. [PMID: 33406420 DOI: 10.1016/j.celrep.2020.108532] [Citation(s) in RCA: 53] [Impact Index Per Article: 17.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/20/2018] [Revised: 06/14/2019] [Accepted: 11/25/2020] [Indexed: 12/15/2022] Open
Abstract
Heterobifunctional proteolysis-targeting chimeric compounds leverage the activity of E3 ligases to induce degradation of target oncoproteins and exhibit potent preclinical antitumor activity. To dissect the mechanisms regulating tumor cell sensitivity to different classes of pharmacological "degraders" of oncoproteins, we performed genome-scale CRISPR-Cas9-based gene editing studies. We observed that myeloma cell resistance to degraders of different targets (BET bromodomain proteins, CDK9) and operating through CRBN (degronimids) or VHL is primarily mediated by prevention of, rather than adaptation to, breakdown of the target oncoprotein; and this involves loss of function of the cognate E3 ligase or interactors/regulators of the respective cullin-RING ligase (CRL) complex. The substantial gene-level differences for resistance mechanisms to CRBN- versus VHL-based degraders explains mechanistically the lack of cross-resistance with sequential administration of these two degrader classes. Development of degraders leveraging more diverse E3 ligases/CRLs may facilitate sequential/alternating versus combined uses of these agents toward potentially delaying or preventing resistance.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ryosuke Shirasaki
- Department of Medical Oncology, Dana-Farber Cancer Institute, Boston, MA, USA; Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA, USA; Broad Institute of MIT and Harvard, Cambridge, MA, USA; Ludwig Center at Harvard, Boston, MA, USA
| | - Geoffrey M Matthews
- Department of Medical Oncology, Dana-Farber Cancer Institute, Boston, MA, USA; Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA, USA; Broad Institute of MIT and Harvard, Cambridge, MA, USA
| | - Sara Gandolfi
- Department of Medical Oncology, Dana-Farber Cancer Institute, Boston, MA, USA; Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA, USA; Broad Institute of MIT and Harvard, Cambridge, MA, USA; Ludwig Center at Harvard, Boston, MA, USA
| | - Ricardo de Matos Simoes
- Department of Medical Oncology, Dana-Farber Cancer Institute, Boston, MA, USA; Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA, USA; Broad Institute of MIT and Harvard, Cambridge, MA, USA; Ludwig Center at Harvard, Boston, MA, USA
| | - Dennis L Buckley
- Department of Medical Oncology, Dana-Farber Cancer Institute, Boston, MA, USA; Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA, USA; Broad Institute of MIT and Harvard, Cambridge, MA, USA
| | - Joseline Raja Vora
- Department of Medical Oncology, Dana-Farber Cancer Institute, Boston, MA, USA; Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA, USA; Broad Institute of MIT and Harvard, Cambridge, MA, USA
| | - Quinlan L Sievers
- Department of Medical Oncology, Dana-Farber Cancer Institute, Boston, MA, USA; Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA, USA; Broad Institute of MIT and Harvard, Cambridge, MA, USA
| | - Johanna B Brüggenthies
- Department of Medical Oncology, Dana-Farber Cancer Institute, Boston, MA, USA; Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA, USA; Broad Institute of MIT and Harvard, Cambridge, MA, USA
| | - Olga Dashevsky
- Department of Medical Oncology, Dana-Farber Cancer Institute, Boston, MA, USA; Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA, USA; Broad Institute of MIT and Harvard, Cambridge, MA, USA; Ludwig Center at Harvard, Boston, MA, USA
| | - Haley Poarch
- Department of Medical Oncology, Dana-Farber Cancer Institute, Boston, MA, USA
| | - Huihui Tang
- Department of Medical Oncology, Dana-Farber Cancer Institute, Boston, MA, USA; Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA, USA; Broad Institute of MIT and Harvard, Cambridge, MA, USA; Ludwig Center at Harvard, Boston, MA, USA
| | - Megan A Bariteau
- Department of Medical Oncology, Dana-Farber Cancer Institute, Boston, MA, USA; Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA, USA; Broad Institute of MIT and Harvard, Cambridge, MA, USA
| | - Michal Sheffer
- Department of Medical Oncology, Dana-Farber Cancer Institute, Boston, MA, USA; Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA, USA; Broad Institute of MIT and Harvard, Cambridge, MA, USA; Ludwig Center at Harvard, Boston, MA, USA
| | - Yiguo Hu
- Department of Medical Oncology, Dana-Farber Cancer Institute, Boston, MA, USA; Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA, USA
| | - Sondra L Downey-Kopyscinski
- Department of Medical Oncology, Dana-Farber Cancer Institute, Boston, MA, USA; Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA, USA; Broad Institute of MIT and Harvard, Cambridge, MA, USA
| | - Paul J Hengeveld
- Department of Medical Oncology, Dana-Farber Cancer Institute, Boston, MA, USA; Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA, USA
| | - Brian J Glassner
- Department of Medical Oncology, Dana-Farber Cancer Institute, Boston, MA, USA; Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA, USA; Broad Institute of MIT and Harvard, Cambridge, MA, USA; Ludwig Center at Harvard, Boston, MA, USA
| | - Eugen Dhimolea
- Department of Medical Oncology, Dana-Farber Cancer Institute, Boston, MA, USA; Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA, USA; Broad Institute of MIT and Harvard, Cambridge, MA, USA; Ludwig Center at Harvard, Boston, MA, USA
| | - Christopher J Ott
- Department of Medical Oncology, Dana-Farber Cancer Institute, Boston, MA, USA; Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA, USA; Massachusetts General Hospital, Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA, USA
| | - Tinghu Zhang
- Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA, USA; Department of Cancer Biology, Dana-Farber Cancer Institute, Boston, MA, USA
| | - Nicholas P Kwiatkowski
- Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA, USA; Department of Cancer Biology, Dana-Farber Cancer Institute, Boston, MA, USA
| | - Jacob P Laubach
- Department of Medical Oncology, Dana-Farber Cancer Institute, Boston, MA, USA; Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA, USA
| | - Robert L Schlossman
- Department of Medical Oncology, Dana-Farber Cancer Institute, Boston, MA, USA; Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA, USA
| | - Paul G Richardson
- Department of Medical Oncology, Dana-Farber Cancer Institute, Boston, MA, USA; Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA, USA
| | - Aedin C Culhane
- Department of Biostatistics and Computational Biology, Dana-Farber Cancer Institute and Harvard T.H. Chan School of Public Health, Boston, MA, USA
| | - Richard W J Groen
- Department of Hematology, Amsterdam UMC, VU University Medical Center, Cancer Center Amsterdam, Amsterdam, the Netherlands
| | - Eric S Fischer
- Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA, USA; Department of Cancer Biology, Dana-Farber Cancer Institute, Boston, MA, USA
| | | | | | - William C Hahn
- Department of Medical Oncology, Dana-Farber Cancer Institute, Boston, MA, USA; Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA, USA; Broad Institute of MIT and Harvard, Cambridge, MA, USA
| | - Joan Levy
- Multiple Myeloma Research Foundation, Norwalk, CT, USA
| | | | - Jonathan D Licht
- University of Florida Health Cancer Center, Gainesville, FL, USA
| | | | - Lawrence H Boise
- Department of Hematology and Medical Oncology and the Winship Cancer Institute, Emory University, Atlanta, GA, USA
| | - Benjamin L Ebert
- Department of Medical Oncology, Dana-Farber Cancer Institute, Boston, MA, USA; Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA, USA; Broad Institute of MIT and Harvard, Cambridge, MA, USA
| | - James E Bradner
- Department of Medical Oncology, Dana-Farber Cancer Institute, Boston, MA, USA; Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA, USA; Broad Institute of MIT and Harvard, Cambridge, MA, USA
| | - Nathanael S Gray
- Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA, USA; Department of Cancer Biology, Dana-Farber Cancer Institute, Boston, MA, USA
| | - Constantine S Mitsiades
- Department of Medical Oncology, Dana-Farber Cancer Institute, Boston, MA, USA; Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA, USA; Broad Institute of MIT and Harvard, Cambridge, MA, USA.
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65
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Madan V, Koeffler HP. Differentiation therapy of myeloid leukemia: four decades of development. Haematologica 2021; 106:26-38. [PMID: 33054125 PMCID: PMC7776344 DOI: 10.3324/haematol.2020.262121] [Citation(s) in RCA: 20] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/10/2020] [Accepted: 09/15/2020] [Indexed: 02/06/2023] Open
Abstract
Acute myeloid leukemia is characterized by arrested differentiation, and agents that overcome this block are therapeutically useful, as shown by the efficacy of all-trans retinoic acid in acute promyelocytic leukemia. However, the early promise of differentiation therapy did not translate into clinical benefit for other subtypes of acute myeloid leukemia, in which cytotoxic chemotherapeutic regimens remained the standard of care. Recent advances, including insights from sequencing of acute myeloid leukemia genomes, have led to the development of targeted therapies, comprising agents that induce differentiation of leukemic cells in preclinical models and clinical trials, thus rejuvenating interest in differentiation therapy. These agents act on various cellular processes including dysregulated metabolic programs, signaling pathways, epigenetic machinery and the cell cycle. In particular, inhibitors of mutant IDH1/2 and FLT3 have shown clinical benefit, leading to approval by regulatory bodies of their use. Besides the focus on recently approved differentiation therapies, this review also provides an overview of differentiation- inducing agents being tested in clinical trials or investigated in preclinical research. Combinatorial strategies are currently being tested for several agents (inhibitors of KDM1A, DOT1L, BET proteins, histone deacetylases), which were not effective in clinical studies as single agents, despite encouraging anti-leukemic activity observed in preclinical models. Overall, recently approved drugs and new investigational agents being developed highlight the merits of differentiation therapy; and ongoing studies promise further advances in the treatment of acute myeloid leukemia in the near future.
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Affiliation(s)
- Vikas Madan
- Cancer Science Institute of Singapore, National University of Singapore.
| | - H Phillip Koeffler
- Cancer Science Institute of Singapore, National University of Singapore; Cedars-Sinai Medical Center, Division of Hematology/Oncology, UCLA School of Medicine, Los Angeles, CA, USA; Department of Hematology-Oncology, National University Cancer Institute of Singapore (NCIS), National University Hospital.
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66
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Sharma V, Wright KL, Epling-Burnette PK, Reuther GW. Metabolic Vulnerabilities and Epigenetic Dysregulation in Myeloproliferative Neoplasms. Front Immunol 2020; 11:604142. [PMID: 33329600 PMCID: PMC7734315 DOI: 10.3389/fimmu.2020.604142] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/08/2020] [Accepted: 11/02/2020] [Indexed: 01/14/2023] Open
Abstract
The Janus kinase 2 (JAK2)-driven myeloproliferative neoplasms (MPNs) are associated with clonal myelopoiesis, elevated risk of death due to thrombotic complications, and transformation to acute myeloid leukemia (AML). JAK2 inhibitors improve the quality of life for MPN patients, but these approved therapeutics do not readily reduce the natural course of disease or antagonize the neoplastic clone. An understanding of the molecular and cellular changes requisite for MPN development and progression are needed to develop improved therapies. Recently, murine MPN models were demonstrated to exhibit metabolic vulnerabilities due to a high dependence on glucose. Neoplastic hematopoietic progenitor cells in these mice express elevated levels of glycolytic enzymes and exhibit enhanced levels of glycolysis and oxidative phosphorylation, and the disease phenotype of these MPN model mice is antagonized by glycolytic inhibition. While all MPN-driving mutations lead to aberrant JAK2 activation, these mutations often co-exist with mutations in genes that encode epigenetic regulators, including loss of function mutations known to enhance MPN progression. In this perspective we discuss how altered activity of epigenetic regulators (e.g., methylation and acetylation) in MPN-driving stem and progenitor cells may alter cellular metabolism and contribute to the MPN phenotype and progression of disease. Specific metabolic changes associated with epigenetic deregulation may identify patient populations that exhibit specific metabolic vulnerabilities that are absent in normal hematopoietic cells, and thus provide a potential basis for the development of more effective personalized therapeutic approaches.
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Affiliation(s)
- Vasundhara Sharma
- Department of Leukemia, Princess Margaret Cancer Center-University Health Network, Toronto, ON, Canada
| | - Kenneth L Wright
- Department of Immunology, Moffitt Cancer Center, Tampa, FL, United States
| | | | - Gary W Reuther
- Department of Molecular Oncology, Moffitt Cancer Center, Tampa, FL, United States
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67
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Li Z, Lim SL, Tao Y, Li X, Xie Y, Yang C, Zhang Z, Jiang Y, Zhang X, Cao X, Wang H, Qian G, Wu Y, Li M, Fang F, Liu Y, Fu M, Ding X, Zhu Z, Lv H, Lu J, Xiao S, Hu S, Pan J. PROTAC Bromodomain Inhibitor ARV-825 Displays Anti-Tumor Activity in Neuroblastoma by Repressing Expression of MYCN or c-Myc. Front Oncol 2020; 10:574525. [PMID: 33324552 PMCID: PMC7726414 DOI: 10.3389/fonc.2020.574525] [Citation(s) in RCA: 20] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/20/2020] [Accepted: 10/23/2020] [Indexed: 12/11/2022] Open
Abstract
Neuroblastoma (NB) is one of the most common solid tumors in childhood. To date, targeting MYCN, a well-established driver gene in high-risk neuroblastoma, is still challenging. In recent years, inhibition of bromodomain and extra terminal (BET) proteins shows great potential in multiple of Myc-driven tumors. ARV-825 is a novel BET inhibitor using proteolysis-targeting chimera (PROTAC) technology which degrades target proteins by the proteasome. In this study, we investigated the effect of ARV-825 in neuroblastoma in vitro and in vivo. Our results showed that ARV-825 treatment robustly induced proliferative suppression, cell cycle arrest, and apoptosis in NB cells. Moreover, ARV-825 efficiently depleted BET protein expression, subsequently repressing the expression of MYCN or c-Myc. In the NB xenograft model, ARV-825 profoundly reduced tumor growth and led to the downregulation of BRD4 and MYCN expression in mice. Taken together, these findings provide evidence that PROTAC BET inhibitor is an efficient way to achieve MYCN/c-Myc manipulation, and ARV-825 can be used as a potential therapeutic strategy for the treatment of neuroblastoma.
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Affiliation(s)
- Zhiheng Li
- Institute of Pediatric Research, Children's Hospital of Soochow University, Suzhou, China.,Department of Pathology, Brigham and Women's Hospital, Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA, United States
| | - Su Lin Lim
- Department of Internal Medicine, Saint Michael's Medical Center, Newark, NJ, United States
| | - Yanfang Tao
- Institute of Pediatric Research, Children's Hospital of Soochow University, Suzhou, China
| | - Xiaolu Li
- Institute of Pediatric Research, Children's Hospital of Soochow University, Suzhou, China
| | - Yi Xie
- Institute of Pediatric Research, Children's Hospital of Soochow University, Suzhou, China
| | - Chun Yang
- Institute of Pediatric Research, Children's Hospital of Soochow University, Suzhou, China
| | - Zimu Zhang
- Institute of Pediatric Research, Children's Hospital of Soochow University, Suzhou, China
| | - You Jiang
- Department of Hematology, Children's Hospital of Soochow University, Suzhou, China
| | - Xianbing Zhang
- Department of Pediatric Surgery, The First People's Hospital of Kunshan, Suzhou, China
| | - Xu Cao
- Department of Pediatric Surgery, Children's Hospital of Soochow University, Suzhou, China
| | - Hairong Wang
- Institute of Pediatric Research, Children's Hospital of Soochow University, Suzhou, China
| | - Guanghui Qian
- Institute of Pediatric Research, Children's Hospital of Soochow University, Suzhou, China
| | - Yi Wu
- Department of Pathology, Children's Hospital of Soochow University, Suzhou, China
| | - Mei Li
- Institute of Pediatric Research, Children's Hospital of Soochow University, Suzhou, China
| | - Fang Fang
- Institute of Pediatric Research, Children's Hospital of Soochow University, Suzhou, China
| | - Ying Liu
- Institute of Pediatric Research, Children's Hospital of Soochow University, Suzhou, China
| | - Mingcui Fu
- Department of Pediatric Surgery, Children's Hospital of Soochow University, Suzhou, China
| | - Xin Ding
- Department of Neonatology, Children's Hospital of Soochow University, Suzhou, China
| | - Zhenghong Zhu
- Department of Burn and Plastic Surgery, Children's Hospital of Soochow University, Suzhou, China
| | - Haitao Lv
- Department of Cardiology, Children's Hospital of Soochow University, Suzhou, China
| | - Jun Lu
- Department of Hematology, Children's Hospital of Soochow University, Suzhou, China
| | - Sheng Xiao
- Department of Pathology, Brigham and Women's Hospital, Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA, United States
| | - Shaoyan Hu
- Institute of Pediatric Research, Children's Hospital of Soochow University, Suzhou, China.,Department of Hematology, Children's Hospital of Soochow University, Suzhou, China
| | - Jian Pan
- Institute of Pediatric Research, Children's Hospital of Soochow University, Suzhou, China
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68
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Chen NC, Borthakur G, Pemmaraju N. Bromodomain and extra-terminal (BET) inhibitors in treating myeloid neoplasms. Leuk Lymphoma 2020; 62:528-537. [DOI: 10.1080/10428194.2020.1842399] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/18/2022]
Affiliation(s)
- Natalie Cheng Chen
- Department of Internal Medicine, The University of Texas School of Health Sciences at Houston, Houston, TX, USA
| | - Gautam Borthakur
- Department of Leukemia, The University of Texas MD Anderson Cancer Center, Houston, TX, USA
| | - Naveen Pemmaraju
- Department of Leukemia, The University of Texas MD Anderson Cancer Center, Houston, TX, USA
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69
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Mechanistic basis and efficacy of targeting the β-catenin-TCF7L2-JMJD6-c-Myc axis to overcome resistance to BET inhibitors. Blood 2020; 135:1255-1269. [PMID: 32068780 DOI: 10.1182/blood.2019002922] [Citation(s) in RCA: 25] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/16/2019] [Accepted: 01/24/2020] [Indexed: 12/11/2022] Open
Abstract
The promising activity of BET protein inhibitors (BETi's) is compromised by adaptive or innate resistance in acute myeloid leukemia (AML). Here, modeling of BETi-persister/resistance (BETi-P/R) in human postmyeloproliferative neoplasm (post-MPN) secondary AML (sAML) cells demonstrated accessible and active chromatin in specific superenhancers/enhancers, which was associated with increased levels of nuclear β-catenin, TCF7L2, JMJD6, and c-Myc in BETi-P/R sAML cells. Following BETi treatment, c-Myc levels were rapidly restored in BETi-P/R sAML cells. CRISPR/Cas9-mediated knockout of TCF7L2 or JMJD6 reversed BETi-P/R, whereas ectopic overexpression conferred BETi-P/R in sAML cells, confirming the mechanistic role of the β-catenin-TCF7L2-JMJD6-c-Myc axis in BETi resistance. Patient-derived, post-MPN, CD34+ sAML blasts exhibiting relative resistance to BETi, as compared with sensitive sAML blasts, displayed higher messenger RNA and protein expression of TCF7L2, JMJD6, and c-Myc and following BETi washout exhibited rapid restoration of c-Myc and JMJD6. CRISPR/Cas9 knockout of TCF7L2 and JMJD6 depleted their levels, inducing loss of viability of the sAML blasts. Disruption of colocalization of nuclear β-catenin with TBL1 and TCF7L2 by the small-molecule inhibitor BC2059 combined with depletion of BRD4 by BET proteolysis-targeting chimera reduced c-Myc levels and exerted synergistic lethality in BETi-P/R sAML cells. This combination also reduced leukemia burden and improved survival of mice engrafted with BETi-P/R sAML cells or patient-derived AML blasts innately resistant to BETi. Therefore, multitargeted disruption of the β-catenin-TCF7L2-JMJD6-c-Myc axis overcomes adaptive and innate BETi resistance, exhibiting preclinical efficacy against human post-MPN sAML cells.
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70
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Altenburg B, Frings M, Schöbel JH, Goßen J, Pannen K, Vanderliek K, Rossetti G, Koschmieder S, Chatain N, Bolm C. Chiral Analogues of PFI-1 as BET Inhibitors and Their Functional Role in Myeloid Malignancies. ACS Med Chem Lett 2020; 11:1928-1934. [PMID: 33062175 DOI: 10.1021/acsmedchemlett.9b00625] [Citation(s) in RCA: 21] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/19/2019] [Accepted: 04/02/2020] [Indexed: 12/13/2022] Open
Abstract
Structural analogues of PFI-1 varying at the sulfur core were prepared, and their activities as BET inhibitors in myeloid cell lines and primary cells from patients with acute myeloid leukemia were studied. Docking calculations followed by molecular dynamics simulations revealed the binding mode of the newly prepared inhibitors, suggesting explanations for the observed high enantiospecificity of the inhibitory activity.
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Affiliation(s)
- Bianca Altenburg
- Department of Hematology, Oncology, Hemostaseology, and Stem Cell Transplantation, Faculty of Medicine, RWTH Aachen University, Pauwelsstr. 30, 52074 Aachen, Germany
| | - Marcus Frings
- Institute of Organic Chemistry, RWTH Aachen University, Landoltweg 1, 52074 Aachen, Germany
| | - Jan-Hendrik Schöbel
- Institute of Organic Chemistry, RWTH Aachen University, Landoltweg 1, 52074 Aachen, Germany
| | - Jonas Goßen
- Institute of Neuroscience and Medicine (INM-9)/Institute for Advanced Simulation (IAS-5), Forschungszentrum Jülich, Wilhelm-Johnen-Straße, 52425 Jülich, Germany
- Faculty of Mathematics, Computer Science and Natural Sciences, RWTH Aachen University, 52074 Aachen, Germany
| | - Kristina Pannen
- Department of Hematology, Oncology, Hemostaseology, and Stem Cell Transplantation, Faculty of Medicine, RWTH Aachen University, Pauwelsstr. 30, 52074 Aachen, Germany
| | - Kim Vanderliek
- Department of Hematology, Oncology, Hemostaseology, and Stem Cell Transplantation, Faculty of Medicine, RWTH Aachen University, Pauwelsstr. 30, 52074 Aachen, Germany
| | - Giulia Rossetti
- Department of Hematology, Oncology, Hemostaseology, and Stem Cell Transplantation, Faculty of Medicine, RWTH Aachen University, Pauwelsstr. 30, 52074 Aachen, Germany
- Institute of Neuroscience and Medicine (INM-9)/Institute for Advanced Simulation (IAS-5), Forschungszentrum Jülich, Wilhelm-Johnen-Straße, 52425 Jülich, Germany
- Jülich Supercomputing Centre (JSC), Forschungszentrum Jülich, Wilhelm-Johnen-Straße, 52425 Jülich, Germany
| | - Steffen Koschmieder
- Department of Hematology, Oncology, Hemostaseology, and Stem Cell Transplantation, Faculty of Medicine, RWTH Aachen University, Pauwelsstr. 30, 52074 Aachen, Germany
| | - Nicolas Chatain
- Department of Hematology, Oncology, Hemostaseology, and Stem Cell Transplantation, Faculty of Medicine, RWTH Aachen University, Pauwelsstr. 30, 52074 Aachen, Germany
| | - Carsten Bolm
- Institute of Organic Chemistry, RWTH Aachen University, Landoltweg 1, 52074 Aachen, Germany
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Proteolysis targeting chimeras (PROTACs) in cancer therapy. JOURNAL OF EXPERIMENTAL & CLINICAL CANCER RESEARCH : CR 2020; 39:189. [PMID: 32933565 PMCID: PMC7493969 DOI: 10.1186/s13046-020-01672-1] [Citation(s) in RCA: 33] [Impact Index Per Article: 8.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/09/2020] [Accepted: 08/10/2020] [Indexed: 12/12/2022]
Abstract
Exploitation of the protein degradation machinery as a therapeutic strategy to degrade oncogenic proteins is experiencing revolutionary advances with the development of proteolysis targeting chimeras (PROTACs). PROTACs are heterobifunctional structures consisting of a ligand that binds a protein to be degraded and a ligand for an E3 ubiquitin ligase. The bridging between the protein of interest and the E3 ligase mediated by the PROTAC facilitates ubiquitination of the protein and its proteasomal degradation. In this review we discuss the molecular medicine behind PROTAC mechanism of action, with special emphasis on recent developments and their potential translation to the clinical setting.
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72
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Shi Y, Liu J, Zhao Y, Cao J, Li Y, Guo F. Bromodomain-Containing Protein 4: A Druggable Target. Curr Drug Targets 2020; 20:1517-1536. [PMID: 31215391 DOI: 10.2174/1574885514666190618113519] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/19/2019] [Revised: 05/28/2019] [Accepted: 05/30/2019] [Indexed: 12/20/2022]
Abstract
Bromodomain-containing protein 4 (BRD4) belongs to the bromodomain and extraterminal family. BRD4 inhibitors can regulate acetylated lysine and form protein complexes that initiate transcriptional programs as an epigenetic regulator of the histone code. BRD4 was initially considered to be one of the most promising targets for combating malignant tumors. However, many recent studies have shown that BRD4 plays a crucial role in various kinds of diseases, including cancer, coronary heart disease, neurological disorder, and obesity. Currently, several BRD4 inhibitors are undergoing clinical trials. A search for new BRD4 inhibitors appears to be of great utility for developing novel drugs. In this mini-review, we highlight the inhibitors of BRD4 from natural products and synthesized sources, as well as their applications in cancer, glucolipid metabolism, inflammation, neuronal stimulation activation, human immunodeficiency virus and renal fibrosis.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yingying Shi
- School of Pharmacy, Shanghai University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, 1200 Cailun Road, Shanghai, 201203, China
| | - Jingwen Liu
- School of Pharmacy, Shanghai University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, 1200 Cailun Road, Shanghai, 201203, China
| | - Yuanyuan Zhao
- School of Pharmacy, Shanghai University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, 1200 Cailun Road, Shanghai, 201203, China
| | - Jiaoxian Cao
- School of Pharmacy, Shanghai University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, 1200 Cailun Road, Shanghai, 201203, China
| | - Yiming Li
- School of Pharmacy, Shanghai University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, 1200 Cailun Road, Shanghai, 201203, China
| | - Fujiang Guo
- School of Pharmacy, Shanghai University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, 1200 Cailun Road, Shanghai, 201203, China
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73
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Proteolysis-targeting chimeras mediate the degradation of bromodomain and extra-terminal domain proteins. Future Med Chem 2020; 12:1669-1683. [PMID: 32893690 DOI: 10.4155/fmc-2017-0264] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/12/2022] Open
Abstract
Bromodomain and extra-terminal domain (BET) protein family plays an important role in regulating gene transcription preferentially at super-enhancer regions and has been involved with several types of cancers as a candidate. Up to now, there are 16 pan-BET inhibitors in clinical trials, however, most of them have undesirable off-target and side-effects. The proteolysis-targeting chimeras technology through a heterobifunctional molecule to link the target protein and E3 ubiquitin ligase, causes the target's ubiquitination and subsequent degradation. By using this technology, the heterobifunctional small-molecule BET degraders can induce BET protein degradation. In this review, we discuss the advances in the drug discovery and development of BET-targeting proteolysis-targeting chimeras.
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Piccolomo A, Schifone CP, Strafella V, Specchia G, Musto P, Albano F. Immunomodulatory Drugs in Acute Myeloid Leukemia Treatment. Cancers (Basel) 2020; 12:cancers12092528. [PMID: 32899586 PMCID: PMC7573974 DOI: 10.3390/cancers12092528] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/14/2020] [Revised: 09/02/2020] [Accepted: 09/03/2020] [Indexed: 12/31/2022] Open
Abstract
Immunomodulatory drugs (IMiDs) are analogs of thalidomide. They have immunomodulatory, antiangiogenic and proapoptotic properties and exert a role in regulating the tumor microenvironment. Recently IMiDs have been investigated for their pleiotropic properties and their therapeutic applications in both solid tumors (melanoma, prostate carcinoma and differentiated thyroid cancer) and hematological malignancies. Nowadays, they are applied in de novo and relapsed/refractory multiple myeloma, in myelodysplastic syndrome, in del5q syndrome with specific use of lenalidomide and B-cell lymphoma. Several studies have been conducted in the last few years to explore IMiDs possible use in acute myeloid leukemia treatment. Here we report the mechanisms of action of IMiDs in acute myeloid leukemia and their potential future therapeutic application in this disease.
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Affiliation(s)
- Antonio Piccolomo
- Department of Emergency and Organ Transplantation (D.E.T.O.), Hematology and Stem cell Transplantation Unit, University of Bari “Aldo Moro”, 70124 Bari, Italy; (A.P.); (C.P.S.); (V.S.); (P.M.)
| | - Claudia Pia Schifone
- Department of Emergency and Organ Transplantation (D.E.T.O.), Hematology and Stem cell Transplantation Unit, University of Bari “Aldo Moro”, 70124 Bari, Italy; (A.P.); (C.P.S.); (V.S.); (P.M.)
| | - Vanda Strafella
- Department of Emergency and Organ Transplantation (D.E.T.O.), Hematology and Stem cell Transplantation Unit, University of Bari “Aldo Moro”, 70124 Bari, Italy; (A.P.); (C.P.S.); (V.S.); (P.M.)
| | - Giorgina Specchia
- Former Full Professor of Hematology, University of Bari “Aldo Moro”, 70124 Bari, Italy;
| | - Pellegrino Musto
- Department of Emergency and Organ Transplantation (D.E.T.O.), Hematology and Stem cell Transplantation Unit, University of Bari “Aldo Moro”, 70124 Bari, Italy; (A.P.); (C.P.S.); (V.S.); (P.M.)
| | - Francesco Albano
- Department of Emergency and Organ Transplantation (D.E.T.O.), Hematology and Stem cell Transplantation Unit, University of Bari “Aldo Moro”, 70124 Bari, Italy; (A.P.); (C.P.S.); (V.S.); (P.M.)
- Correspondence: ; Tel.: +39-080-5478031
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75
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Kuykendall AT, Horvat NP, Pandey G, Komrokji R, Reuther GW. Finding a Jill for JAK: Assessing Past, Present, and Future JAK Inhibitor Combination Approaches in Myelofibrosis. Cancers (Basel) 2020; 12:E2278. [PMID: 32823910 PMCID: PMC7464183 DOI: 10.3390/cancers12082278] [Citation(s) in RCA: 12] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/16/2020] [Revised: 08/06/2020] [Accepted: 08/10/2020] [Indexed: 12/11/2022] Open
Abstract
Myelofibrosis (MF) is a myeloproliferative neoplasm hallmarked by the upregulation of the Janus kinase (JAK)-signal transducer and activator of transcription (STAT) pathway with associated extramedullary hematopoiesis and a high burden of disease-related symptoms. While JAK inhibitor therapy is central to the management of MF, it is not without limitations. In an effort to improve treatment for MF patients, there have been significant efforts to identify combination strategies that build upon the substantial benefits of JAK inhibition. Early efforts to combine agents with additive therapeutic profiles have given way to rationally designed combinations hoping to demonstrate clinical synergism and modify the underlying disease. In this article, we review the preclinical basis and existing clinical data for JAK inhibitor combination strategies while highlighting emerging strategies of particular interest.
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Affiliation(s)
- Andrew T. Kuykendall
- Department of Malignant Hematology, H. Lee Moffitt Cancer Center & Research Institute, Tampa, FL 33612, USA;
| | - Nathan P. Horvat
- Morsani College of Medicine, University of South Florida, Tampa, FL 33612 USA;
| | - Garima Pandey
- Department of Molecular Oncology, H. Lee Moffitt Cancer Center & Research Institute, Tampa, FL 33612, USA; (G.P.); (G.W.R.)
| | - Rami Komrokji
- Department of Malignant Hematology, H. Lee Moffitt Cancer Center & Research Institute, Tampa, FL 33612, USA;
| | - Gary W. Reuther
- Department of Molecular Oncology, H. Lee Moffitt Cancer Center & Research Institute, Tampa, FL 33612, USA; (G.P.); (G.W.R.)
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76
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Saraswat A, Patki M, Fu Y, Barot S, Dukhande VV, Patel K. Nanoformulation of PROteolysis TArgeting Chimera targeting ‘undruggable’ c-Myc for the treatment of pancreatic cancer. Nanomedicine (Lond) 2020; 15:1761-1777. [DOI: 10.2217/nnm-2020-0156] [Citation(s) in RCA: 19] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/16/2022] Open
Abstract
Aim: To explore the anticancer activity of a novel BRD4 protein degrader ARV-825 (ARV) and its nanoformulation development (ARV-NP) for treatment of pancreatic cancer. Materials & methods: ARV-NP were prepared using nanoprecipitation method and characterized for their physicochemical properties and various anticancer cell culture assays. Results: ARV-NP (89.63 ± 16.39 nm) demonstrated good physical stability, negligible hemolysis and improved half-life of ARV. ARV-NP showed significant cytotoxicity, apoptosis and anticlonogenic effect in pancreatic cancer cells. Significant downregulation of target proteins BRD4, c-Myc, Bcl-2 and upregulation of apoptotic marker cleaved caspase-3 was observed. Most importantly, ARV-NP treatment significantly inhibited the cell viability of 3D tumor spheroids of pancreatic cancer. Conclusion: ARV-NP represents a novel therapeutic strategy for pancreatic cancer.
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Affiliation(s)
- Aishwarya Saraswat
- College of Pharmacy & Health Sciences, St. John’s University, Queens, NY 11439, USA
| | - Manali Patki
- College of Pharmacy & Health Sciences, St. John’s University, Queens, NY 11439, USA
| | - Yige Fu
- College of Pharmacy & Health Sciences, St. John’s University, Queens, NY 11439, USA
| | - Shrikant Barot
- College of Pharmacy & Health Sciences, St. John’s University, Queens, NY 11439, USA
| | - Vikas V Dukhande
- College of Pharmacy & Health Sciences, St. John’s University, Queens, NY 11439, USA
| | - Ketan Patel
- College of Pharmacy & Health Sciences, St. John’s University, Queens, NY 11439, USA
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77
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He Y, Khan S, Huo Z, Lv D, Zhang X, Liu X, Yuan Y, Hromas R, Xu M, Zheng G, Zhou D. Proteolysis targeting chimeras (PROTACs) are emerging therapeutics for hematologic malignancies. J Hematol Oncol 2020; 13:103. [PMID: 32718354 PMCID: PMC7384229 DOI: 10.1186/s13045-020-00924-z] [Citation(s) in RCA: 63] [Impact Index Per Article: 15.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/26/2020] [Accepted: 06/23/2020] [Indexed: 12/11/2022] Open
Abstract
Proteolysis targeting chimeras (PROTACs) are heterobifunctional small molecules that utilize the ubiquitin proteasome system (UPS) to degrade proteins of interest (POI). PROTACs are potentially superior to conventional small molecule inhibitors (SMIs) because of their unique mechanism of action (MOA, i.e., degrading POI in a sub-stoichiometric manner), ability to target “undruggable” and mutant proteins, and improved target selectivity. Therefore, PROTACs have become an emerging technology for the development of novel targeted anticancer therapeutics. In fact, some of these reported PROTACs exhibit unprecedented efficacy and specificity in degrading various oncogenic proteins and have advanced to various stages of preclinical and clinical development for the treatment of cancer and hematologic malignancy. In this review, we systematically summarize the known PROTACs that have the potential to be used to treat various hematologic malignancies and discuss strategies to improve the safety of PROTACs for clinical application. Particularly, we propose to use the latest human pan-tissue single-cell RNA sequencing data to identify hematopoietic cell type-specific/selective E3 ligases to generate tumor-specific/selective PROTACs. These PROTACs have the potential to become safer therapeutics for hematologic malignancies because they can overcome some of the on-target toxicities of SMIs and PROTACs.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yonghan He
- Department of Pharmacodynamics, College of Pharmacy, University of Florida, Gainesville, FL, USA
| | - Sajid Khan
- Department of Pharmacodynamics, College of Pharmacy, University of Florida, Gainesville, FL, USA
| | - Zhiguang Huo
- Department of Biostatistics, College of Public Health & Health Professions and College of Medicine, University of Florida, Gainesville, FL, USA
| | - Dongwen Lv
- Department of Pharmacodynamics, College of Pharmacy, University of Florida, Gainesville, FL, USA
| | - Xuan Zhang
- Department of Medicinal Chemistry, College of Pharmacy, University of Florida, Gainesville, FL, USA
| | - Xingui Liu
- Department of Pharmacodynamics, College of Pharmacy, University of Florida, Gainesville, FL, USA
| | - Yaxia Yuan
- Department of Pharmacodynamics, College of Pharmacy, University of Florida, Gainesville, FL, USA
| | - Robert Hromas
- Department of Medicine, The University of Texas Health Science Center at San Antonio, San Antonio, TX, USA
| | - Mingjiang Xu
- Department of Molecular Medicine, College of Medicine, The University of Texas Health Science Center at San Antonio, San Antonio, TX, USA
| | - Guangrong Zheng
- Department of Medicinal Chemistry, College of Pharmacy, University of Florida, Gainesville, FL, USA
| | - Daohong Zhou
- Department of Pharmacodynamics, College of Pharmacy, University of Florida, Gainesville, FL, USA.
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78
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He Y, Koch R, Budamagunta V, Zhang P, Zhang X, Khan S, Thummuri D, Ortiz YT, Zhang X, Lv D, Wiegand JS, Li W, Palmer AC, Zheng G, Weinstock DM, Zhou D. DT2216-a Bcl-xL-specific degrader is highly active against Bcl-xL-dependent T cell lymphomas. J Hematol Oncol 2020; 13:95. [PMID: 32677976 PMCID: PMC7364785 DOI: 10.1186/s13045-020-00928-9] [Citation(s) in RCA: 54] [Impact Index Per Article: 13.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/07/2020] [Accepted: 06/29/2020] [Indexed: 12/19/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Patients with advanced T cell lymphomas (TCLs) have limited therapeutic options and poor outcomes in part because their TCLs evade apoptosis through upregulation of anti-apoptotic Bcl-2 proteins. Subsets of TCL cell lines, patient-derived xenografts (PDXs), and primary patient samples depend on Bcl-xL for survival. However, small molecule Bcl-xL inhibitors such as ABT263 have failed during clinical development due to on-target and dose-limiting thrombocytopenia. METHODS We have developed DT2216, a proteolysis targeting chimera (PROTAC) targeting Bcl-xL for degradation via Von Hippel-Lindau (VHL) E3 ligase, and shown that it has better anti-tumor activity but is less toxic to platelets compared to ABT263. Here, we examined the therapeutic potential of DT2216 for TCLs via testing its anti-TCL activity in vitro using MTS assay, immunoblotting, and flow cytometry and anti-TCL activity in vivo using TCL cell xenograft and PDX model in mice. RESULTS The results showed that DT2216 selectively killed various Bcl-xL-dependent TCL cells including MyLa cells in vitro. In vivo, DT2216 alone was highly effective against MyLa TCL xenografts in mice without causing significant thrombocytopenia or other toxicity. Furthermore, DT2216 combined with ABT199 (a selective Bcl-2 inhibitor) synergistically reduced disease burden and improved survival in a TCL PDX mouse model dependent on both Bcl-2 and Bcl-xL. CONCLUSIONS These findings support the clinical testing of DT2216 in patients with Bcl-xL-dependent TCLs, both as a single agent and in rational combinations.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yonghan He
- Department of Pharmacodynamics, College of Pharmacy, University of Florida, Gainesville, FL, USA
| | - Raphael Koch
- Department of Hematology and Medical Oncology, University Medical Center Göttingen, Göttingen, Germany
| | - Vivekananda Budamagunta
- Department of Pharmacodynamics, College of Pharmacy, University of Florida, Gainesville, FL, USA
| | - Peiyi Zhang
- Department of Medicinal Chemistry, College of Pharmacy, University of Florida, Gainesville, FL, USA
| | - Xuan Zhang
- Department of Medicinal Chemistry, College of Pharmacy, University of Florida, Gainesville, FL, USA
| | - Sajid Khan
- Department of Pharmacodynamics, College of Pharmacy, University of Florida, Gainesville, FL, USA
| | - Dinesh Thummuri
- Department of Pharmacodynamics, College of Pharmacy, University of Florida, Gainesville, FL, USA
| | - Yuma T Ortiz
- Department of Pharmacodynamics, College of Pharmacy, University of Florida, Gainesville, FL, USA
| | - Xin Zhang
- Department of Pharmacodynamics, College of Pharmacy, University of Florida, Gainesville, FL, USA
| | - Dongwen Lv
- Department of Pharmacodynamics, College of Pharmacy, University of Florida, Gainesville, FL, USA
| | - Janet S Wiegand
- Department of Pharmacodynamics, College of Pharmacy, University of Florida, Gainesville, FL, USA
| | - Wen Li
- Department of Pharmacodynamics, College of Pharmacy, University of Florida, Gainesville, FL, USA
| | - Adam C Palmer
- Department of Pharmacology, School of Medicine, University of North Carolina, Chapel Hill, NC, USA
| | - Guangrong Zheng
- Department of Medicinal Chemistry, College of Pharmacy, University of Florida, Gainesville, FL, USA
| | - David M Weinstock
- Department of Medical Oncology, Dana-Farber Cancer Institute and Harvard Medical School, 450 Brookline Avenue, Dana 510B, Boston, MA, USA.
| | - Daohong Zhou
- Department of Pharmacodynamics, College of Pharmacy, University of Florida, Gainesville, FL, USA.
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79
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Zhou X, Dong R, Zhang JY, Zheng X, Sun LP. PROTAC: A promising technology for cancer treatment. Eur J Med Chem 2020; 203:112539. [PMID: 32698111 DOI: 10.1016/j.ejmech.2020.112539] [Citation(s) in RCA: 49] [Impact Index Per Article: 12.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/30/2020] [Revised: 06/03/2020] [Accepted: 06/04/2020] [Indexed: 12/13/2022]
Abstract
Proteolysis-targeting chimeric molecules (PROTACs), which attract much more attention today, may be a potential way to treat cancer. PROTACs are made up of ligands of target proteins, E3 ligase recruiting elements and linkers. PROTACs can hijack the intracellular inherent ubiquitin proteasome system in cells to degrade different target proteins. PROTACs targeting different cancer-related proteins have been successfully developed and outperform small inhibitors, the traditional way of treating cancer. In this review, we focus on PROTACs targeting cancer-related proteins and their superiority over inhibitors.
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Affiliation(s)
- Xin Zhou
- Jiangsu Key Laboratory of Drug Design & Optimization, Department of Medicinal Chemistry, China Pharmaceutical University, Nanjing, 210009, PR China
| | - Ru Dong
- Jiangsu Key Laboratory of Drug Design & Optimization, Department of Medicinal Chemistry, China Pharmaceutical University, Nanjing, 210009, PR China
| | - Jin-Yang Zhang
- Jiangsu Key Laboratory of Drug Design & Optimization, Department of Medicinal Chemistry, China Pharmaceutical University, Nanjing, 210009, PR China
| | - Xin Zheng
- Jiangsu Key Laboratory of Drug Design & Optimization, Department of Medicinal Chemistry, China Pharmaceutical University, Nanjing, 210009, PR China
| | - Li-Ping Sun
- Jiangsu Key Laboratory of Drug Design & Optimization, Department of Medicinal Chemistry, China Pharmaceutical University, Nanjing, 210009, PR China.
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80
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Li X, Song Y. Proteolysis-targeting chimera (PROTAC) for targeted protein degradation and cancer therapy. J Hematol Oncol 2020; 13:50. [PMID: 32404196 PMCID: PMC7218526 DOI: 10.1186/s13045-020-00885-3] [Citation(s) in RCA: 208] [Impact Index Per Article: 52.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/13/2020] [Accepted: 04/28/2020] [Indexed: 12/12/2022] Open
Abstract
Proteolysis-targeting chimera (PROTAC) has been developed to be a useful technology for targeted protein degradation. A bifunctional PROTAC molecule consists of a ligand (mostly small-molecule inhibitor) of the protein of interest (POI) and a covalently linked ligand of an E3 ubiquitin ligase (E3). Upon binding to the POI, the PROTAC can recruit E3 for POI ubiquitination, which is subjected to proteasome-mediated degradation. PROTAC complements nucleic acid-based gene knockdown/out technologies for targeted protein reduction and could mimic pharmacological protein inhibition. To date, PROTACs targeting ~ 50 proteins, many of which are clinically validated drug targets, have been successfully developed with several in clinical trials for cancer therapy. This article reviews PROTAC-mediated degradation of critical oncoproteins in cancer, particularly those in hematological malignancies. Chemical structures, cellular and in vivo activities, pharmacokinetics, and pharmacodynamics of these PROTACs are summarized. In addition, potential advantages, challenges, and perspectives of PROTAC technology in cancer therapy are discussed.
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Affiliation(s)
- Xin Li
- Department of Pharmacology and Chemical Biology, Baylor College of Medicine, 1 Baylor Plaza, Houston, TX, 77030, USA
| | - Yongcheng Song
- Department of Pharmacology and Chemical Biology, Baylor College of Medicine, 1 Baylor Plaza, Houston, TX, 77030, USA. .,Dan L. Duncan Comprehensive Cancer Center, Baylor College of Medicine, 1 Baylor Plaza, Houston, TX, 77030, USA.
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81
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Abstract
Epigenetic mechanisms involve the placing (writing) or removal (erasing) of histone modifications that allow heterochromatin to transition to the open, activated euchromatin state necessary for transcription. A third, less studied epigenetic pathway involves the reading of these specific histone marks once placed. The BETs (bromodomain and extraterminal-containing protein family), which includes BRD2, BRD3, and BRD4 and the testis-restricted BRDT, are epigenetic reader proteins that bind to specific acetylated lysine residues on histone tails where they facilitate the assembly of transcription complexes including transcription factors and transcriptional machinery like RNA Polymerase II. As reviewed here, considerable recent data establishes BETs as novel determinants of induced transcriptional programs in vascular cells, like endothelial cells and vascular smooth muscle cells, cardiac myocytes and inflammatory cells, like monocyte/macrophages, cellular settings where these epigenetic reader proteins couple proximal stimuli to chromatin, acting at super-enhancer regulatory regions to direct gene expression. BET inhibition, including the use of specific chemical BET inhibitors like JQ-1, has many reported effects in vivo in the cardiovascular setting, like decreasing atherosclerosis, angiogenesis, intimal hyperplasia, pulmonary arterial hypertension, and cardiac hypertrophy. At the same time, data in endothelial cells, adipocytes, and elsewhere suggest BETs also help regulate gene expression under basal conditions. Studies in the cardiovascular setting have highlighted BET action as a means of controlling gene expression in differentiation, cell identity, and cell state transitions, whether physiological or pathological, adaptive, or maladaptive. While distinct BET inhibitors are being pursued as therapies in oncology, a large prospective clinical cardiovascular outcome study investigating the BET inhibitor RVX-208 (now called apabetalone) has already been completed. Independent of this specific agent and this one trial or the numerous unanswered questions that remain, BETs have emerged as novel epigenetic players involved in the execution of coordinated transcriptional programs in cardiovascular health and disease.
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Affiliation(s)
- Patricia Cristine Borck
- From the Division of Cardiovascular Medicine, Brigham and Women's Hospital, Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA (P.C.B., J.P.)
| | - Lian-Wang Guo
- Davis Heart and Lung Institute, Wexner Medical Center, Ohio State University, Columbus (L.-W.G.)
| | - Jorge Plutzky
- From the Division of Cardiovascular Medicine, Brigham and Women's Hospital, Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA (P.C.B., J.P.)
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82
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Burslem GM, Crews CM. Proteolysis-Targeting Chimeras as Therapeutics and Tools for Biological Discovery. Cell 2020; 181:102-114. [PMID: 31955850 PMCID: PMC7319047 DOI: 10.1016/j.cell.2019.11.031] [Citation(s) in RCA: 531] [Impact Index Per Article: 132.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/24/2019] [Revised: 11/07/2019] [Accepted: 11/21/2019] [Indexed: 12/16/2022]
Abstract
New biological tools provide new techniques to probe fundamental biological processes. Here we describe the burgeoning field of proteolysis-targeting chimeras (PROTACs), which are capable of modulating protein concentrations at a post-translational level by co-opting the ubiquitin-proteasome system. We describe the PROTAC technology and its application to drug discovery and provide examples where PROTACs have enabled novel biological insights. Furthermore, we provide a workflow for PROTAC development and use and discuss the benefits and issues associated with PROTACs. Finally, we compare PROTAC-mediated protein-level modulation with other technologies, such as RNAi and genome editing.
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Affiliation(s)
- George M Burslem
- Department of Molecular, Cellular and Developmental Biology, Yale University, New Haven, CT, USA
| | - Craig M Crews
- Department of Molecular, Cellular and Developmental Biology, Yale University, New Haven, CT, USA; Departments of Chemistry and Pharmacology, Yale University, New Haven, CT, USA.
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83
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He L, Chen C, Gao G, Xu K, Ma Z. ARV-825-induced BRD4 protein degradation as a therapy for thyroid carcinoma. Aging (Albany NY) 2020; 12:4547-4557. [PMID: 32163373 PMCID: PMC7093165 DOI: 10.18632/aging.102910] [Citation(s) in RCA: 20] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/15/2020] [Accepted: 02/05/2020] [Indexed: 04/08/2023]
Abstract
Bromodomain-containing protein 4 (BRD4) is overexpressed in thyroid carcinoma, represents as an important therapeutic target. ARV-825 is a novel cereblon-based PROTAC (Proteolysis Targeting Chsimera) compound. It can induce fast and sustained BRD4 protein degradation. Its potential effect in human thyroid carcinoma cells was studied here. In TPC-1 cells and primary human thyroid carcinoma cells, ARV-825 potently inhibited cell viability, proliferation and migration. Furthermore, ARV-825 induced robust apoptosis activation in the thyroid carcinoma cells. ARV-825 induced BRD4 protein degradation and downregulation of its targets, including c-Myc, Bcl-xL and cyclin D1 in thyroid carcinoma cells. It was significantly more potent in inhibiting thyroid carcinoma cells than the known small molecule BRD4 inhibitors. In vivo studies demonstrated that ARV-825 oral administration potently suppressed TPC-1 xenograft tumor growth in severe combined immunodeficient mice. BRD4 protein degradation as well as c-Myc, Bcl-xL and cyclin D1 downregulation were detected in ARV-825-treated TPC-1 tumor tissues. Taken together, ARV-825 induces BRD4 protein degradation and inhibits thyroid carcinoma cell growth in vitro and in vivo.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ling He
- Department of General Surgery, Affiliated Hospital of Nanjing University of Chinese Medicine, Jiangsu Province Hospital of Chinese Medicine, Nanjing, China
| | - Chen Chen
- Department of General Surgery, Affiliated Hospital of Nanjing University of Chinese Medicine, Jiangsu Province Hospital of Chinese Medicine, Nanjing, China
| | - Guoyu Gao
- Department of General Surgery, Affiliated Hospital of Nanjing University of Chinese Medicine, Jiangsu Province Hospital of Chinese Medicine, Nanjing, China
| | - Kun Xu
- Department of General Surgery, Affiliated Hospital of Nanjing University of Chinese Medicine, Jiangsu Province Hospital of Chinese Medicine, Nanjing, China
| | - Zhaoqun Ma
- Department of General Surgery, Affiliated Hospital of Nanjing University of Chinese Medicine, Jiangsu Province Hospital of Chinese Medicine, Nanjing, China
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84
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Zhang H, Li G, Zhang Y, Shi J, Yan B, Tang H, Chen S, Zhang J, Wen P, Wang Z, Pang C, Li J, Guo W, Zhang S. Targeting BET Proteins With a PROTAC Molecule Elicits Potent Anticancer Activity in HCC Cells. Front Oncol 2020; 9:1471. [PMID: 31993368 PMCID: PMC6971110 DOI: 10.3389/fonc.2019.01471] [Citation(s) in RCA: 21] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/22/2019] [Accepted: 12/09/2019] [Indexed: 12/23/2022] Open
Abstract
Background and Aim: Bromodomain and extraterminal domain (BET) family proteins are epigenetic regulators involved in human malignances. Targeting BET proteins for degradation using proteolysis-targeting chimera (PROTAC) recently has drawn increasing attention in the field of cancer therapeutics. BET proteins have been found to be overexpressed in HCC cells and tumor tissues. However, the biological activity of BET-PROTACs in hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) remains unclear. In this study, we investigated anti-HCC activity of BETd-260, a BET-PROTAC molecule using in vitro and in vivo models. Methods: BETd-260-mediated anti-HCC activity was investigated by cell viability, apoptosis assays. Efficacy was examined with a cell lines-derived HCC xenograft model in mice. Anticancer mechanism was investigated by RT-PCR, western blotting and immunohistochemical staining. Results: BETd-260 potently suppressed cell viability and robustly induced apoptosis in HCC cells. BETd-260 reciprocally modulated the expression of several apoptotic genes in HCC cells, i.e., suppressing the expression of anti-apoptotic Mcl-1, Bcl-2, c-Myc, and X-linked inhibitor of apoptosis (XIAP), whereas increasing the expression of pro-apoptotic Bad. BETd-260 treatment led to disruption of mitochondrial membrane integrity, and triggered apoptosis via intrinsic signaling in HCC cells. BETd-260 triggered apoptosis in HCC xenograft tissue and profoundly inhibited the growth of HCC xenograft tumors in mice. Conclusion: Our data suggest that pharmacological targeting of BET for degradation may be a novel therapeutic strategy for the treatment of HCC.
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Affiliation(s)
- Huapeng Zhang
- Department of Hepatobiliary and Pancreatic Surgery, The First Affiliated Hospital of Zhengzhou University, Zhengzhou, China.,Open and Key Laboratory of Hepatobiliary & Pancreatic Surgery and Digestive Organ Transplantation at Henan Universities, The First Affiliated Hospital of Zhengzhou University, Zhengzhou, China.,Zhengzhou Key Laboratory of Hepatobiliary & Pancreatic Diseases and Organ Transplantation, Zhengzhou, China.,Henan Key Laboratory of Digestive Organ Transplantation, Zhengzhou, China
| | - Gongquan Li
- Department of Hepatobiliary and Pancreatic Surgery, The First Affiliated Hospital of Zhengzhou University, Zhengzhou, China.,Open and Key Laboratory of Hepatobiliary & Pancreatic Surgery and Digestive Organ Transplantation at Henan Universities, The First Affiliated Hospital of Zhengzhou University, Zhengzhou, China.,Zhengzhou Key Laboratory of Hepatobiliary & Pancreatic Diseases and Organ Transplantation, Zhengzhou, China.,Henan Key Laboratory of Digestive Organ Transplantation, Zhengzhou, China
| | - Yi Zhang
- Open and Key Laboratory of Hepatobiliary & Pancreatic Surgery and Digestive Organ Transplantation at Henan Universities, The First Affiliated Hospital of Zhengzhou University, Zhengzhou, China.,Department of Orthopaedic Surgery, The First Affiliated Hospital of Zhengzhou University, Zhengzhou, China
| | - Jihua Shi
- Department of Hepatobiliary and Pancreatic Surgery, The First Affiliated Hospital of Zhengzhou University, Zhengzhou, China.,Open and Key Laboratory of Hepatobiliary & Pancreatic Surgery and Digestive Organ Transplantation at Henan Universities, The First Affiliated Hospital of Zhengzhou University, Zhengzhou, China.,Zhengzhou Key Laboratory of Hepatobiliary & Pancreatic Diseases and Organ Transplantation, Zhengzhou, China.,Henan Key Laboratory of Digestive Organ Transplantation, Zhengzhou, China
| | - Bing Yan
- Department of Hepatobiliary and Pancreatic Surgery, The First Affiliated Hospital of Zhengzhou University, Zhengzhou, China.,Open and Key Laboratory of Hepatobiliary & Pancreatic Surgery and Digestive Organ Transplantation at Henan Universities, The First Affiliated Hospital of Zhengzhou University, Zhengzhou, China.,Zhengzhou Key Laboratory of Hepatobiliary & Pancreatic Diseases and Organ Transplantation, Zhengzhou, China.,Henan Key Laboratory of Digestive Organ Transplantation, Zhengzhou, China
| | - Hongwei Tang
- Department of Hepatobiliary and Pancreatic Surgery, The First Affiliated Hospital of Zhengzhou University, Zhengzhou, China.,Open and Key Laboratory of Hepatobiliary & Pancreatic Surgery and Digestive Organ Transplantation at Henan Universities, The First Affiliated Hospital of Zhengzhou University, Zhengzhou, China.,Zhengzhou Key Laboratory of Hepatobiliary & Pancreatic Diseases and Organ Transplantation, Zhengzhou, China.,Henan Key Laboratory of Digestive Organ Transplantation, Zhengzhou, China
| | - Sanyang Chen
- Department of Hepatobiliary and Pancreatic Surgery, The First Affiliated Hospital of Zhengzhou University, Zhengzhou, China.,Open and Key Laboratory of Hepatobiliary & Pancreatic Surgery and Digestive Organ Transplantation at Henan Universities, The First Affiliated Hospital of Zhengzhou University, Zhengzhou, China.,Zhengzhou Key Laboratory of Hepatobiliary & Pancreatic Diseases and Organ Transplantation, Zhengzhou, China.,Henan Key Laboratory of Digestive Organ Transplantation, Zhengzhou, China
| | - Jiakai Zhang
- Department of Hepatobiliary and Pancreatic Surgery, The First Affiliated Hospital of Zhengzhou University, Zhengzhou, China.,Open and Key Laboratory of Hepatobiliary & Pancreatic Surgery and Digestive Organ Transplantation at Henan Universities, The First Affiliated Hospital of Zhengzhou University, Zhengzhou, China.,Zhengzhou Key Laboratory of Hepatobiliary & Pancreatic Diseases and Organ Transplantation, Zhengzhou, China.,Henan Key Laboratory of Digestive Organ Transplantation, Zhengzhou, China
| | - Peihao Wen
- Department of Hepatobiliary and Pancreatic Surgery, The First Affiliated Hospital of Zhengzhou University, Zhengzhou, China.,Open and Key Laboratory of Hepatobiliary & Pancreatic Surgery and Digestive Organ Transplantation at Henan Universities, The First Affiliated Hospital of Zhengzhou University, Zhengzhou, China.,Zhengzhou Key Laboratory of Hepatobiliary & Pancreatic Diseases and Organ Transplantation, Zhengzhou, China.,Henan Key Laboratory of Digestive Organ Transplantation, Zhengzhou, China
| | - Zhihui Wang
- Department of Hepatobiliary and Pancreatic Surgery, The First Affiliated Hospital of Zhengzhou University, Zhengzhou, China.,Open and Key Laboratory of Hepatobiliary & Pancreatic Surgery and Digestive Organ Transplantation at Henan Universities, The First Affiliated Hospital of Zhengzhou University, Zhengzhou, China.,Zhengzhou Key Laboratory of Hepatobiliary & Pancreatic Diseases and Organ Transplantation, Zhengzhou, China.,Henan Key Laboratory of Digestive Organ Transplantation, Zhengzhou, China
| | - Chun Pang
- Department of Hepatobiliary and Pancreatic Surgery, The First Affiliated Hospital of Zhengzhou University, Zhengzhou, China.,Open and Key Laboratory of Hepatobiliary & Pancreatic Surgery and Digestive Organ Transplantation at Henan Universities, The First Affiliated Hospital of Zhengzhou University, Zhengzhou, China.,Zhengzhou Key Laboratory of Hepatobiliary & Pancreatic Diseases and Organ Transplantation, Zhengzhou, China.,Henan Key Laboratory of Digestive Organ Transplantation, Zhengzhou, China
| | - Jie Li
- Department of Hepatobiliary and Pancreatic Surgery, The First Affiliated Hospital of Zhengzhou University, Zhengzhou, China.,Open and Key Laboratory of Hepatobiliary & Pancreatic Surgery and Digestive Organ Transplantation at Henan Universities, The First Affiliated Hospital of Zhengzhou University, Zhengzhou, China.,Zhengzhou Key Laboratory of Hepatobiliary & Pancreatic Diseases and Organ Transplantation, Zhengzhou, China.,Henan Key Laboratory of Digestive Organ Transplantation, Zhengzhou, China
| | - Wenzhi Guo
- Department of Hepatobiliary and Pancreatic Surgery, The First Affiliated Hospital of Zhengzhou University, Zhengzhou, China.,Open and Key Laboratory of Hepatobiliary & Pancreatic Surgery and Digestive Organ Transplantation at Henan Universities, The First Affiliated Hospital of Zhengzhou University, Zhengzhou, China.,Zhengzhou Key Laboratory of Hepatobiliary & Pancreatic Diseases and Organ Transplantation, Zhengzhou, China.,Henan Key Laboratory of Digestive Organ Transplantation, Zhengzhou, China
| | - Shuijun Zhang
- Department of Hepatobiliary and Pancreatic Surgery, The First Affiliated Hospital of Zhengzhou University, Zhengzhou, China.,Open and Key Laboratory of Hepatobiliary & Pancreatic Surgery and Digestive Organ Transplantation at Henan Universities, The First Affiliated Hospital of Zhengzhou University, Zhengzhou, China.,Zhengzhou Key Laboratory of Hepatobiliary & Pancreatic Diseases and Organ Transplantation, Zhengzhou, China.,Henan Key Laboratory of Digestive Organ Transplantation, Zhengzhou, China
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85
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Repurposing old drugs as new inhibitors of the ubiquitin-proteasome pathway for cancer treatment. Semin Cancer Biol 2019; 68:105-122. [PMID: 31883910 DOI: 10.1016/j.semcancer.2019.12.013] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/14/2019] [Revised: 10/30/2019] [Accepted: 12/15/2019] [Indexed: 12/25/2022]
Abstract
The ubiquitin-proteasome system (UPS) plays a central role in the degradation of cellular proteins. Targeting protein degradation has been validated as an effective strategy for cancer therapy since 2003. Several components of the UPS have been validated as potential anticancer targets, including 20S proteasomes, 19S proteasome-associated deubiquitinases (DUBs) and ubiquitin ligases (E3s). 20S proteasome inhibitors (such as bortezomib/BTZ and carfilzomib/CFZ) have been approved by the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) for the treatment of multiple myeloma (MM) and some other liquid tumors. Although survival of MM patients has been improved by the introduction of BTZ-based therapies, these clinical 20S proteasome inhibitors have several limitations, including emergence of resistance in MM patients, neuro-toxicities, and little efficacy in solid tumors. One of strategies to improve the current status of cancer treatment is to repurpose old drugs with UPS-inhibitory properties as new anticancer agents. Old drug reposition represents an attractive drug discovery approach compared to the traditional de novo drug discovery process which is time-consuming and costly. In this review, we summarize status of repurposed inhibitors of various UPS components, including 20S proteasomes, 19S-associated DUBs, and ubiquitin ligase E3s. The original and new mechanisms of action, molecular targets, and potential anticancer activities of these repurposed UPS inhibitors are reviewed, and their new uses including combinational therapies for cancer treatment are discussed.
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86
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Bewersdorf JP, Jaszczur SM, Afifi S, Zhao JC, Zeidan AM. Beyond Ruxolitinib: Fedratinib and Other Emergent Treatment Options for Myelofibrosis. Cancer Manag Res 2019; 11:10777-10790. [PMID: 31920387 PMCID: PMC6935287 DOI: 10.2147/cmar.s212559] [Citation(s) in RCA: 22] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/12/2019] [Accepted: 12/13/2019] [Indexed: 12/11/2022] Open
Abstract
Myelofibrosis (MF) is a myeloproliferative neoplasm characterized by clonal proliferation of differentiated myeloid cells leading to bone marrow fibrosis, cytopenias and extramedullary hematopoiesis. In late 2019, the FDA approved the highly selective JAK2 inhibitor, fedratinib, for intermediate-2 or high-risk primary or secondary MF, making it the second drug approved for MF after ruxolitinib, a JAK1/2 inhibitor, which was approved for MF in 2011. The approval of fedratinib was based on phase II trials and the phase III JAKARTA trial, in which the drug significantly reduced splenomegaly and symptom burden compared to placebo, including some patients previously treated with ruxolitinib. The main side effects of fedratinib include anemia, gastrointestinal symptoms, and elevations in liver transaminases. Fedratinib also has ablack box warning for encephalopathy, although this occurred only in about 1% of the treated patients, most of which were ultimately felt not to represent Wernicke’s encephalopathy. Nonetheless, monitoring of thiamine levels and supplementation are recommended especially in high-risk patients. This concern has led to a prolonged clinical hold and delayed the drug approval by several years during which the drug exchanged manufacturers, highlighting the need for meticulous investigation and adjudication of serious, but rare, adverse events in drug development that could end up preventing drugs with favorable risk/benefit ratio from being approved. In this review, we discuss the pharmacokinetic data and efficacy, as well as the toxicity results of clinical trials of fedratinib. We also review ongoing trials of JAK inhibitors in MF and explore future treatment options for MF patients who are refractory to ruxolitinib.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jan Philipp Bewersdorf
- Department of Internal Medicine, Section of Hematology, Yale School of Medicine, New Haven, CT, USA
| | | | - Salma Afifi
- Department of Pharmacy, Yale New Haven Hospital, New Haven, CT, USA
| | - Jennifer C Zhao
- Department of Pharmacy, Yale New Haven Hospital, New Haven, CT, USA
| | - Amer M Zeidan
- Department of Internal Medicine, Section of Hematology, Yale School of Medicine, New Haven, CT, USA.,Cancer Outcomes, Public Policy, and Effectiveness Research (COPPER) Center, Yale University, New Haven, CT, USA
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87
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Dragovich PS, Adhikari P, Blake RA, Blaquiere N, Chen J, Cheng YX, den Besten W, Han J, Hartman SJ, He J, He M, Rei Ingalla E, Kamath AV, Kleinheinz T, Lai T, Leipold DD, Li CS, Liu Q, Lu J, Lu Y, Meng F, Meng L, Ng C, Peng K, Lewis Phillips G, Pillow TH, Rowntree RK, Sadowsky JD, Sampath D, Staben L, Staben ST, Wai J, Wan K, Wang X, Wei B, Wertz IE, Xin J, Xu K, Yao H, Zang R, Zhang D, Zhou H, Zhao Y. Antibody-mediated delivery of chimeric protein degraders which target estrogen receptor alpha (ERα). Bioorg Med Chem Lett 2019; 30:126907. [PMID: 31902710 DOI: 10.1016/j.bmcl.2019.126907] [Citation(s) in RCA: 75] [Impact Index Per Article: 15.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/29/2019] [Revised: 12/09/2019] [Accepted: 12/10/2019] [Indexed: 12/31/2022]
Abstract
Chimeric molecules which effect intracellular degradation of target proteins via E3 ligase-mediated ubiquitination (e.g., PROTACs) are currently of high interest in medicinal chemistry. However, these entities are relatively large compounds that often possess molecular characteristics which may compromise oral bioavailability, solubility, and/or in vivo pharmacokinetic properties. Accordingly, we explored whether conjugation of chimeric degraders to monoclonal antibodies using technologies originally developed for cytotoxic payloads might provide alternate delivery options for these novel agents. In this report we describe the construction of several degrader-antibody conjugates comprised of two distinct ERα-targeting degrader entities and three independent ADC linker modalities. We subsequently demonstrate the antigen-dependent delivery to MCF7-neo/HER2 cells of the degrader payloads that are incorporated into these conjugates. We also provide evidence for efficient intracellular degrader release from one of the employed linkers. In addition, preliminary data are described which suggest that reasonably favorable in vivo stability properties are associated with the linkers utilized to construct the degrader conjugates.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Pragya Adhikari
- Genentech Inc., 1 DNA Way, South San Francisco, CA 94080, USA
| | - Robert A Blake
- Genentech Inc., 1 DNA Way, South San Francisco, CA 94080, USA
| | | | - Jinhua Chen
- WuXi AppTec, Waigaoqiao Free Trade Zone, 288 Fute Zhong Road, Shanghai 200131, China
| | - Yun-Xing Cheng
- Pharmaron Beijing, Co. Ltd., BDA Beijing, 6 Tai He Road, 100176, China
| | | | - Jinping Han
- Pharmaron Beijing, Co. Ltd., BDA Beijing, 6 Tai He Road, 100176, China
| | | | - Jintang He
- Genentech Inc., 1 DNA Way, South San Francisco, CA 94080, USA
| | - Mingtao He
- Pharmaron Beijing, Co. Ltd., BDA Beijing, 6 Tai He Road, 100176, China
| | | | - Amrita V Kamath
- Genentech Inc., 1 DNA Way, South San Francisco, CA 94080, USA
| | | | - Tommy Lai
- WuXi AppTec, Waigaoqiao Free Trade Zone, 288 Fute Zhong Road, Shanghai 200131, China
| | | | - Chun Sing Li
- WuXi AppTec, Waigaoqiao Free Trade Zone, 288 Fute Zhong Road, Shanghai 200131, China
| | - Qi Liu
- Pharmaron Beijing, Co. Ltd., BDA Beijing, 6 Tai He Road, 100176, China
| | - Jiawei Lu
- WuXi Biologics, Waigaoqiao Free Trade Zone, 288 Fute Zhong Road, Shanghai 200131, China
| | - Ying Lu
- WuXi AppTec, Waigaoqiao Free Trade Zone, 288 Fute Zhong Road, Shanghai 200131, China
| | - Fanwei Meng
- Pharmaron Beijing, Co. Ltd., BDA Beijing, 6 Tai He Road, 100176, China
| | - Lingyao Meng
- Genentech Inc., 1 DNA Way, South San Francisco, CA 94080, USA
| | - Carl Ng
- Genentech Inc., 1 DNA Way, South San Francisco, CA 94080, USA
| | - Kaishan Peng
- WuXi Biologics, Waigaoqiao Free Trade Zone, 288 Fute Zhong Road, Shanghai 200131, China
| | | | - Thomas H Pillow
- Genentech Inc., 1 DNA Way, South San Francisco, CA 94080, USA
| | | | - Jack D Sadowsky
- Genentech Inc., 1 DNA Way, South San Francisco, CA 94080, USA
| | - Deepak Sampath
- Genentech Inc., 1 DNA Way, South San Francisco, CA 94080, USA
| | - Leanna Staben
- Genentech Inc., 1 DNA Way, South San Francisco, CA 94080, USA
| | - Steven T Staben
- Genentech Inc., 1 DNA Way, South San Francisco, CA 94080, USA
| | - John Wai
- WuXi AppTec, Waigaoqiao Free Trade Zone, 288 Fute Zhong Road, Shanghai 200131, China
| | - Kunpeng Wan
- WuXi AppTec, Waigaoqiao Free Trade Zone, 288 Fute Zhong Road, Shanghai 200131, China
| | - Xinxin Wang
- WuXi AppTec, Waigaoqiao Free Trade Zone, 288 Fute Zhong Road, Shanghai 200131, China
| | - BinQing Wei
- Genentech Inc., 1 DNA Way, South San Francisco, CA 94080, USA
| | - Ingrid E Wertz
- Genentech Inc., 1 DNA Way, South San Francisco, CA 94080, USA
| | - Jianfeng Xin
- Pharmaron Beijing, Co. Ltd., BDA Beijing, 6 Tai He Road, 100176, China
| | - Keyang Xu
- Genentech Inc., 1 DNA Way, South San Francisco, CA 94080, USA
| | - Hui Yao
- WuXi AppTec, Waigaoqiao Free Trade Zone, 288 Fute Zhong Road, Shanghai 200131, China
| | - Richard Zang
- Genentech Inc., 1 DNA Way, South San Francisco, CA 94080, USA
| | - Donglu Zhang
- Genentech Inc., 1 DNA Way, South San Francisco, CA 94080, USA
| | - Hao Zhou
- WuXi AppTec, Waigaoqiao Free Trade Zone, 288 Fute Zhong Road, Shanghai 200131, China
| | - Yongxin Zhao
- WuXi AppTec, Waigaoqiao Free Trade Zone, 288 Fute Zhong Road, Shanghai 200131, China
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88
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Han X, Zhao L, Xiang W, Qin C, Miao B, Xu T, Wang M, Yang CY, Chinnaswamy K, Stuckey J, Wang S. Discovery of Highly Potent and Efficient PROTAC Degraders of Androgen Receptor (AR) by Employing Weak Binding Affinity VHL E3 Ligase Ligands. J Med Chem 2019; 62:11218-11231. [PMID: 31804827 DOI: 10.1021/acs.jmedchem.9b01393] [Citation(s) in RCA: 127] [Impact Index Per Article: 25.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/28/2022]
Abstract
Androgen receptor (AR) is a validated therapeutic target for the treatment of metastatic castration-resistant prostate cancer (mCRPC). We report herein our design, synthesis, and biological characterization of highly potent small-molecule proteolysis targeting chimera (PROTAC) AR degraders using a potent AR antagonist and E3 ligase ligands with weak binding affinities to VHL protein. Our study resulted in the discovery of 11 (ARD-266), which effectively induces degradation of AR protein in AR-positive (AR+) LNCaP, VCaP, and 22Rv1 prostate cancer cell lines with DC50 values of 0.2-1 nM. ARD-266 is capable of reducing the AR protein level by >95% in these AR+ prostate cancer cell lines and effectively reduces AR-regulated gene expression suppression. For the first time, we demonstrated that an E3 ligand with micromolar binding affinity to its E3 ligase complex can be successfully employed for the design of highly potent and efficient PROTAC degraders and this finding may have a significant implication for the field of PROTAC research.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Lijie Zhao
- School of Pharmaceutical Sciences and Institute of Drug Discovery & Development , Zhengzhou University , Zhengzhou 450001 , China
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89
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Khan S, Zhang X, Lv D, Zhang Q, He Y, Zhang P, Liu X, Thummuri D, Yuan Y, Wiegand JS, Pei J, Zhang W, Sharma A, McCurdy CR, Kuruvilla VM, Baran N, Ferrando AA, Kim YM, Rogojina A, Houghton PJ, Huang G, Hromas R, Konopleva M, Zheng G, Zhou D. A selective BCL-X L PROTAC degrader achieves safe and potent antitumor activity. Nat Med 2019; 25:1938-1947. [PMID: 31792461 PMCID: PMC6898785 DOI: 10.1038/s41591-019-0668-z] [Citation(s) in RCA: 335] [Impact Index Per Article: 67.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/11/2019] [Accepted: 10/28/2019] [Indexed: 12/20/2022]
Abstract
BCL-XL is a well-validated cancer target. However, the on-target and dose-limiting thrombocytopenia limits the use of BCL-XL inhibitors such as ABT263 as safe and effective anticancer agents. To reduce the toxicity of ABT263, we converted it into DT2216, a BCL-XL proteolysis targeting chimera (PROTAC), that targets BCL-XL to the Von Hippel-Lindau (VHL) E3 ligase for degradation. We found that DT2216 was more potent against various BCL-XL-dependent leukemia and cancer cells but significantly less toxic to platelets than ABT263 in vitro because VHL is poorly expressed in platelets. In vivo, DT2216 effectively inhibits the growth of several xenograft tumors as a single agent or in combination with other chemotherapeutic agents, without causing significant thrombocytopenia. These findings demonstrate the potential to use PROTAC technology to reduce on-target drug toxicities and rescue the therapeutic potential of previously undruggable targets. Furthermore, DT2216 may be developed as a safe first-in-class anticancer agent targeting BCL-XL.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sajid Khan
- Department of Pharmacodynamics, University of Florida, Gainesville, FL, USA
| | - Xuan Zhang
- Department of Medicinal Chemistry, College of Pharmacy, University of Florida, Gainesville, FL, USA
| | - Dongwen Lv
- Department of Pharmacodynamics, University of Florida, Gainesville, FL, USA
| | - Qi Zhang
- Department of Leukemia, University of Texas M.D. Anderson Cancer Center, Houston, TX, USA
| | - Yonghan He
- Department of Pharmacodynamics, University of Florida, Gainesville, FL, USA
| | - Peiyi Zhang
- Department of Medicinal Chemistry, College of Pharmacy, University of Florida, Gainesville, FL, USA
| | - Xingui Liu
- Department of Pharmacodynamics, University of Florida, Gainesville, FL, USA
| | - Dinesh Thummuri
- Department of Pharmacodynamics, University of Florida, Gainesville, FL, USA
| | - Yaxia Yuan
- Department of Pharmacodynamics, University of Florida, Gainesville, FL, USA
| | - Janet S Wiegand
- Department of Pharmacodynamics, University of Florida, Gainesville, FL, USA
| | - Jing Pei
- Department of Pharmacodynamics, University of Florida, Gainesville, FL, USA
| | - Weizhou Zhang
- Department of Pathology, Immunology and Laboratory Medicine, College of Medicine, University of Florida, Gainesville, FL, USA
| | - Abhisheak Sharma
- Department of Pharmaceutics, College of Pharmacy, University of Florida, Gainesville, FL, USA
| | - Christopher R McCurdy
- Department of Medicinal Chemistry, College of Pharmacy, University of Florida, Gainesville, FL, USA
| | - Vinitha M Kuruvilla
- Department of Leukemia, University of Texas M.D. Anderson Cancer Center, Houston, TX, USA
| | - Natalia Baran
- Department of Leukemia, University of Texas M.D. Anderson Cancer Center, Houston, TX, USA
| | - Adolfo A Ferrando
- Department of Pediatrics, Pathology, Cell Biology and Systems of Biology and Institute for Cancer Genetics, Columbia University, New York, NY, USA
| | - Yong-Mi Kim
- Department of Pediatrics, Children's Hospital Los Angeles, Los Angeles, CA, USA
| | - Anna Rogojina
- Greehey Children's Cancer Research Institute, University of Texas Health Science Center at San Antonio, San Antonio, TX, USA
| | - Peter J Houghton
- Greehey Children's Cancer Research Institute, University of Texas Health Science Center at San Antonio, San Antonio, TX, USA
| | - Guangcun Huang
- Department of Medicine, the Long School of Medicine, University of Texas Health Science Center at San Antonio, San Antonio, TX, USA
| | - Robert Hromas
- Department of Medicine, the Long School of Medicine, University of Texas Health Science Center at San Antonio, San Antonio, TX, USA
| | - Marina Konopleva
- Department of Leukemia, University of Texas M.D. Anderson Cancer Center, Houston, TX, USA
| | - Guangrong Zheng
- Department of Medicinal Chemistry, College of Pharmacy, University of Florida, Gainesville, FL, USA.
| | - Daohong Zhou
- Department of Pharmacodynamics, University of Florida, Gainesville, FL, USA.
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90
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Pillow TH, Adhikari P, Blake RA, Chen J, Del Rosario G, Deshmukh G, Figueroa I, Gascoigne KE, Kamath AV, Kaufman S, Kleinheinz T, Kozak KR, Latifi B, Leipold DD, Sing Li C, Li R, Mulvihill MM, O'Donohue A, Rowntree RK, Sadowsky JD, Wai J, Wang X, Wu C, Xu Z, Yao H, Yu S, Zhang D, Zang R, Zhang H, Zhou H, Zhu X, Dragovich PS. Antibody Conjugation of a Chimeric BET Degrader Enables
in vivo
Activity. ChemMedChem 2019; 15:17-25. [DOI: 10.1002/cmdc.201900497] [Citation(s) in RCA: 53] [Impact Index Per Article: 10.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/27/2019] [Revised: 10/11/2019] [Indexed: 12/12/2022]
Affiliation(s)
| | | | | | - Jinhua Chen
- Wuxi Apptec 288 Fute Zhong Road Waigaoqiao Free Trade Zone Shanghai 200131 China
| | | | - Gauri Deshmukh
- Genentech Inc. 1 DNA Way South San Francisco CA 94080 USA
| | | | | | | | - Susan Kaufman
- Genentech Inc. 1 DNA Way South San Francisco CA 94080 USA
| | | | | | - Brandon Latifi
- Genentech Inc. 1 DNA Way South San Francisco CA 94080 USA
| | | | - Chun Sing Li
- Wuxi Apptec 288 Fute Zhong Road Waigaoqiao Free Trade Zone Shanghai 200131 China
| | - Ruina Li
- Genentech Inc. 1 DNA Way South San Francisco CA 94080 USA
| | | | | | | | | | - John Wai
- Wuxi Apptec 288 Fute Zhong Road Waigaoqiao Free Trade Zone Shanghai 200131 China
| | - Xinxin Wang
- Wuxi Apptec 288 Fute Zhong Road Waigaoqiao Free Trade Zone Shanghai 200131 China
| | - Cong Wu
- Genentech Inc. 1 DNA Way South San Francisco CA 94080 USA
| | - Zijin Xu
- Wuxi Apptec 288 Fute Zhong Road Waigaoqiao Free Trade Zone Shanghai 200131 China
| | - Hui Yao
- Wuxi Apptec 288 Fute Zhong Road Waigaoqiao Free Trade Zone Shanghai 200131 China
| | - Shang‐Fan Yu
- Genentech Inc. 1 DNA Way South San Francisco CA 94080 USA
| | - Donglu Zhang
- Genentech Inc. 1 DNA Way South San Francisco CA 94080 USA
| | - Richard Zang
- Genentech Inc. 1 DNA Way South San Francisco CA 94080 USA
| | - Hongyan Zhang
- Wuxi Apptec 288 Fute Zhong Road Waigaoqiao Free Trade Zone Shanghai 200131 China
| | - Hao Zhou
- Wuxi Apptec 288 Fute Zhong Road Waigaoqiao Free Trade Zone Shanghai 200131 China
| | - Xiaoyu Zhu
- Wuxi Apptec 288 Fute Zhong Road Waigaoqiao Free Trade Zone Shanghai 200131 China
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91
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Shi C, Zhang H, Wang P, Wang K, Xu D, Wang H, Yin L, Zhang S, Zhang Y. PROTAC induced-BET protein degradation exhibits potent anti-osteosarcoma activity by triggering apoptosis. Cell Death Dis 2019; 10:815. [PMID: 31653826 PMCID: PMC6814818 DOI: 10.1038/s41419-019-2022-2] [Citation(s) in RCA: 18] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/11/2019] [Revised: 09/14/2019] [Accepted: 09/26/2019] [Indexed: 12/19/2022]
Abstract
Targeting oncogenic proteins for degradation using proteolysis-targeting chimera (PROTAC) recently has drawn increasing attention in the field of cancer research. Bromodomain and extra-terminal (BET) family proteins are newly identified cancer-related epigenetic regulators, which have a role in the pathogenesis and progression of osteosarcoma. In this study, we investigated the in vitro and in vivo anti-osteosarcoma activity by targeting BET with a PROTAC molecule BETd-260. The results showed that BETd-260 completely depletes BET proteins and potently suppresses cell viability in MNNG/HOS, Saos-2, MG-63, and SJSA-1 osteosarcoma cell lines. Compared with BET inhibitors HJB-97 and JQ1, the activity of BETd-260 increased over 1000 times. Moreover, BETd-260 substantially inhibited the expression of anti-apoptotic Mcl-1, Bcl-xl while increased the expression of pro-apoptotic Noxa, which resulted in massive apoptosis in osteosarcoma cells within hours. In addition, pro-oncogenic protein c-Myc also was substantially inhibited by BETd-260 in the OS cells. Of note, BETd-260 induced degradation of BET proteins, triggered apoptosis in xenograft osteosarcoma tumor tissue, and profoundly inhibited the growth of cell-derived and patient-derived osteosarcoma xenografts in mice. Our findings indicate that BET PROTACs represent a promising therapeutic agent for human osteosarcoma.
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Affiliation(s)
- Chengcheng Shi
- Department of Pharmacy, The First Affiliated Hospital of Zhengzhou University, Zhengzhou, Henan, China
| | - Huapeng Zhang
- Department of Hepatobiliary and Pancreatic Surgery, The First Affiliated Hospital of Zhengzhou University, Zhengzhou, Henan, China
- Open and Key Laboratory of Hepatobiliary & Pancreatic Surgery and Digestive Organ Transplantation at Henan Universities, Zhengzhou, Henan, China
- Henan Key Laboratory of Digestive Organ Transplantation, Zhengzhou, Henan, China
- Zhengzhou Key Laboratory of Hepatobiliary & Pancreatic Diseases and Organ Transplantation, Zhengzhou, Henan, China
| | - Penglei Wang
- China-US (Henan) Hormel Cancer Institute, Zhengzhou, Henan, China
| | - Kai Wang
- Department of Hepatobiliary and Pancreatic Surgery, The First Affiliated Hospital of Zhengzhou University, Zhengzhou, Henan, China
- Open and Key Laboratory of Hepatobiliary & Pancreatic Surgery and Digestive Organ Transplantation at Henan Universities, Zhengzhou, Henan, China
- Henan Key Laboratory of Digestive Organ Transplantation, Zhengzhou, Henan, China
- Zhengzhou Key Laboratory of Hepatobiliary & Pancreatic Diseases and Organ Transplantation, Zhengzhou, Henan, China
| | - Denghui Xu
- Department of Orthopaedic Surgery, The First Affiliated Hospital of Zhengzhou University, Zhengzhou, Henan, China
| | - Haitao Wang
- Department of Orthopaedic Surgery, The First Affiliated Hospital of Zhengzhou University, Zhengzhou, Henan, China
| | - Li Yin
- Department of Orthopaedic Surgery, The First Affiliated Hospital of Zhengzhou University, Zhengzhou, Henan, China
| | - Shuijun Zhang
- Department of Hepatobiliary and Pancreatic Surgery, The First Affiliated Hospital of Zhengzhou University, Zhengzhou, Henan, China
- Open and Key Laboratory of Hepatobiliary & Pancreatic Surgery and Digestive Organ Transplantation at Henan Universities, Zhengzhou, Henan, China
- Henan Key Laboratory of Digestive Organ Transplantation, Zhengzhou, Henan, China
- Zhengzhou Key Laboratory of Hepatobiliary & Pancreatic Diseases and Organ Transplantation, Zhengzhou, Henan, China
| | - Yi Zhang
- Department of Orthopaedic Surgery, The First Affiliated Hospital of Zhengzhou University, Zhengzhou, Henan, China.
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92
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Pfaff P, Samarasinghe KTG, Crews CM, Carreira EM. Reversible Spatiotemporal Control of Induced Protein Degradation by Bistable PhotoPROTACs. ACS CENTRAL SCIENCE 2019; 5:1682-1690. [PMID: 31660436 PMCID: PMC6813558 DOI: 10.1021/acscentsci.9b00713] [Citation(s) in RCA: 157] [Impact Index Per Article: 31.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/17/2019] [Indexed: 05/09/2023]
Abstract
Off-tissue effects are persistent issues of modern inhibition-based therapies. By merging the strategies of photopharmacology and small-molecule degraders, we introduce a novel concept for persistent spatiotemporal control of induced protein degradation that potentially prevents off-tissue toxicity. Building on the successful principle of bifunctional all-small-molecule Proteolysis Targeting Chimeras (PROTACs), we designed photoswitchable PROTACs (photoPROTACs) by including ortho-F4-azobenzene linkers between both warhead ligands. This highly bistable yet photoswitchable structural component leads to reversible control over the topological distance between both ligands. The azo-cis-isomer is observed to be inactive because the distance defined by the linker is prohibitively short to permit complex formation between the protein binding partners. By contrast, the azo-trans-isomer is active since it can engage both protein partners to form the necessary and productive ternary complex. Importantly, due to the bistable nature of the ortho-F4-azobenzene moiety employed, the photostationary state of the photoPROTAC is persistent, with no need for continuous irradiation. This technique offers reversible on/off switching of protein degradation that is compatible with an intracellular environment and, therefore, could be useful in experimental exploration of biological signaling pathways-such as those crucial for oncogenic signal transduction. Additionally, this strategy may be suitable for therapeutic intervention to address a variety of diseases. By enabling reversible activation and deactivation of protein degradation, photoPROTACs offer advantages over conventional photocaging strategies that irreversibly release active agents.
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Affiliation(s)
- Patrick Pfaff
- Department
of Chemistry and Applied Biosciences, Laboratory of Organic Chemistry, ETH Zürich, Vladimir-Prelog-Weg 3, 8093 Zürich, Switzerland
| | - Kusal T. G. Samarasinghe
- Department
of Molecular, Cell, and Developmental Biology, Yale University, 260
Whitney Avenue, New Haven, Connecticut 06511, United States
| | - Craig M. Crews
- Department
of Molecular, Cell, and Developmental Biology, Yale University, 260
Whitney Avenue, New Haven, Connecticut 06511, United States
- Department
of Chemistry, Yale University, New Haven, Connecticut 06511, United States
- Department
of Pharmacology, Yale University, New Haven, Connecticut 06511, United States
| | - Erick M. Carreira
- Department
of Chemistry and Applied Biosciences, Laboratory of Organic Chemistry, ETH Zürich, Vladimir-Prelog-Weg 3, 8093 Zürich, Switzerland
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93
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Abstract
Proteolysis-targeting chimeras (PROTACs) have received much attention for their promising therapeutic intervention in recent years. These molecules, with the mechanism of simultaneous recruitment of target protein and an E3 ligase, can trigger the cellular ubiquitin–proteasome system to degrade the target proteins. This article systematically introduces the mechanism of small-molecule PROTACs, and summarized the research progress of small-molecule PROTACs. The prospect for further application and the problems to be solved are also discussed.
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94
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Lu Q, Ding X, Huang T, Zhang S, Li Y, Xu L, Chen G, Ying Y, Wang Y, Feng Z, Wang L, Zou X. BRD4 degrader ARV-825 produces long-lasting loss of BRD4 protein and exhibits potent efficacy against cholangiocarcinoma cells. Am J Transl Res 2019; 11:5728-5739. [PMID: 31632543 PMCID: PMC6789278] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/17/2019] [Accepted: 06/07/2019] [Indexed: 06/10/2023]
Abstract
BRD4, a member of the bromodomain and extraterminal domain (BET) family and an important epigenetic reader, has emerged as an attractive oncology target. Cholangiocarcinoma is a lethal neoplasm without approved targeted therapies. BET bromodomain inhibitors have shown promising effects in certain cancers including cholangiocarcinoma. Recently developed BRD4 Proteolysis Targeting Chimera (PROTAC) compounds lead to fast and efficient degradation of BRD4 and provides longer-lasting effect than small molecule BRD4 inhibitors. In this study, we investigated the antitumor effect of a newly developed BRD4 degrader ARV-825 in cholangiocarcinoma. Immunohistochemistry and Western blotting were used to determine the expression level of BRD4. CCK-8 assay and BrdU ELISA assay were used to assess cell proliferation. Caspase 3/7 activity and Annexin V/PI staining were used to assess apoptosis. We demonstrated that BRD4 expression was elevated in cholangiocarcinoma tissues compared to normal bile duct or surrounding normal liver tissues. ARV-825 produced fast and long-lasting loss of BRD4 protein, resulting in more inhibition of CCA cell proliferation and induction of apoptosis than BRD4 inhibitors OTX-015 and JQ1. C-Myc is a well-known downstream target of BRD4. We found that ARV-825 suppressed c-Myc levels more effectively than BRD4 inhibitors. However, ARV-825 did not inhibit c-Myc expression in CCA cells with low basal c-Myc levels. Further analysis showed that ARV-825 significantly upregulated p21 expression and arrested cell cycle progression at G1 phase. In conclusion, BRD4 degrader ARV-825 leads to rapid and sustained degradation of BRD4 and is effective against cholangiocarcinoma.
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Affiliation(s)
- Qin Lu
- Department of Gastroenterology, Nanjing Drum Tower Hospital, Clinical College of Nanjing Medical UniversityNanjing 210008, Jiangsu, China
- Department of Gastroenterology, Zhongda Hospital, School of Medicine, Southeast UniversityNanjing 210009, Jiangsu, China
| | - Xiwei Ding
- Department of Gastroenterology, Nanjing Drum Tower Hospital, The Affiliated Hospital of Nanjing University Medical SchoolNanjing 210008, Jiangsu, China
| | - Tianlu Huang
- Department of Gastroenterology, Nanjing Drum Tower Hospital, The Affiliated Hospital of Nanjing University Medical SchoolNanjing 210008, Jiangsu, China
| | - Shu Zhang
- Department of Gastroenterology, Nanjing Drum Tower Hospital, The Affiliated Hospital of Nanjing University Medical SchoolNanjing 210008, Jiangsu, China
| | - Yang Li
- Department of Gastroenterology, The First Affiliated Hospital of Anhui Medical UniversityHefei 230022, Anhui, China
| | - Lei Xu
- Department of Gastroenterology, Nanjing Drum Tower Hospital, Clinical College of Nanjing Medical UniversityNanjing 210008, Jiangsu, China
| | - Gang Chen
- Division of Hepatobiliary Surgery, The First Affiliated Hospital of Wenzhou Medical UniversityWenzhou 325000, Zhejiang, China
| | - Yuyao Ying
- Department of Gastroenterology, Nanjing Drum Tower Hospital, The Affiliated Hospital of Nanjing University Medical SchoolNanjing 210008, Jiangsu, China
| | - Yun Wang
- Suqian People’s Hospital of Nanjing Drum-Tower Hospital GroupSuqian 223800, Jiangsu, China
| | - Zhenqing Feng
- Department of Pathology, Nanjing Medical UniversityNanjing 211166, Jiangsu, China
- Jiangsu Key Lab of Cancer Biomarkers, Prevention and Treatment, Collaborative Innovation Center for Cancer Personalized Medicine, Nanjing Medical UniversityNanjing 211166, Jiangsu, China
| | - Lei Wang
- Department of Gastroenterology, Nanjing Drum Tower Hospital, The Affiliated Hospital of Nanjing University Medical SchoolNanjing 210008, Jiangsu, China
| | - Xiaoping Zou
- Department of Gastroenterology, Nanjing Drum Tower Hospital, Clinical College of Nanjing Medical UniversityNanjing 210008, Jiangsu, China
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95
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Inducing the Degradation of Disease-Related Proteins Using Heterobifunctional Molecules. Molecules 2019; 24:molecules24183272. [PMID: 31500395 PMCID: PMC6766870 DOI: 10.3390/molecules24183272] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/12/2019] [Revised: 08/02/2019] [Accepted: 08/07/2019] [Indexed: 01/02/2023] Open
Abstract
Current drug development strategies that target either enzymatic or receptor proteins for which specific small molecule ligands can be designed for modulation, result in a large portion of the proteome being overlooked as undruggable. The recruitment of natural degradation cascades for targeted protein removal using heterobifunctional molecules (or degraders) provides a likely avenue to expand the druggable proteome. In this review, we discuss the use of this drug development strategy in relation to degradation cascade-recruiting mechanisms and successfully targeted disease-related proteins. Essential characteristics to be considered in degrader design are deliberated upon and future development challenges mentioned.
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96
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Noblejas-López MDM, Nieto-Jimenez C, Burgos M, Gómez-Juárez M, Montero JC, Esparís-Ogando A, Pandiella A, Galán-Moya EM, Ocaña A. Activity of BET-proteolysis targeting chimeric (PROTAC) compounds in triple negative breast cancer. JOURNAL OF EXPERIMENTAL & CLINICAL CANCER RESEARCH : CR 2019; 38:383. [PMID: 31470872 PMCID: PMC6717344 DOI: 10.1186/s13046-019-1387-5] [Citation(s) in RCA: 59] [Impact Index Per Article: 11.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/17/2019] [Accepted: 08/19/2019] [Indexed: 12/16/2022]
Abstract
Background Triple negative breast cancer (TNBC) is an incurable disease where novel therapeutic strategies are needed. Proteolysis targeting chimeric (PROTAC) are novel compounds that promote protein degradation by binding to an ubiquitin ligase. In this work, we explored the antitumoral activity of two novel BET-PROTACs, MZ1 and ARV-825, in TNBC, ovarian cancer and in a BET inhibitor resistant model. Methods OVCAR3, SKOV3, BT549, MDA-MB-231 cell lines and the JQ1 resistant cell line MDA-MB-231R were evaluated. MTTs, colony-forming assay, three-dimensional cultures in matrigel, flow cytometry, and western blots were performed to explore the anti-proliferative effect and biochemical mechanism of action of MZ1 and ARV-825. In vivo studies included BALB/c nu/nu mice engrafted with MDA-MB-231R cells. Results The BET-PROTACs MZ1 and ARV-825 efficiently downregulated the protein expression levels of the BET protein BRD4, in MDA-MB-231 and MDA-MB-231R. MZ1 and ARV-825 also showed an antiproliferative effect on sensitive and resistant cells. This effect was corroborated in other triple negative (BT549) and ovarian cancer (SKOV3, OVCAR3) cell lines. MZ1 provoked G2/M arrest in MDA-MB-231. In addition, a profound effect on caspase-dependent apoptosis was observed in both sensitive and resistant cells. No synergistic activity was observed when it was combined with docetaxel, cisplatin or olaparib. Finally, in vivo administration of MZ1 rescued tumor growth in a JQ1-resistant xenograft model, reducing the expression levels of BRD4. Conclusions Using both in vitro and in vivo approaches, we describe the profound activity of BET-PROTACs in parental and BETi-resistant TNBC models. This data provides options for further clinical development of these agents in TNBC. Electronic supplementary material The online version of this article (10.1186/s13046-019-1387-5) contains supplementary material, which is available to authorized users.
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Affiliation(s)
- María Del Mar Noblejas-López
- Translational Research Unit, Albacete University Hospital, C/ Francisco Javier de Moya sn, 02006, Albacete, Spain.,Centro Regional de Investigaciones Biomédicas (CRIB), Universidad de Castilla-La Mancha (UCLM), C/Almansa 14, 02008, Albacete, Spain
| | - Cristina Nieto-Jimenez
- Translational Research Unit, Albacete University Hospital, C/ Francisco Javier de Moya sn, 02006, Albacete, Spain.,Centro Regional de Investigaciones Biomédicas (CRIB), Universidad de Castilla-La Mancha (UCLM), C/Almansa 14, 02008, Albacete, Spain
| | - Miguel Burgos
- Translational Research Unit, Albacete University Hospital, C/ Francisco Javier de Moya sn, 02006, Albacete, Spain
| | - Mónica Gómez-Juárez
- Translational Research Unit, Albacete University Hospital, C/ Francisco Javier de Moya sn, 02006, Albacete, Spain
| | - Juan Carlos Montero
- Instituto de Biología Molecular y Celular del Cáncer (IBMCC-CIC), Salamanca, Spain.,IBSAL, Salamanca, Spain.,CIBERONC, Salamanca, Spain
| | - Azucena Esparís-Ogando
- Instituto de Biología Molecular y Celular del Cáncer (IBMCC-CIC), Salamanca, Spain.,IBSAL, Salamanca, Spain.,CIBERONC, Salamanca, Spain
| | - Atanasio Pandiella
- Instituto de Biología Molecular y Celular del Cáncer (IBMCC-CIC), Salamanca, Spain.,IBSAL, Salamanca, Spain.,CIBERONC, Salamanca, Spain.,CSIC, Salamanca, Spain
| | - Eva M Galán-Moya
- Centro Regional de Investigaciones Biomédicas (CRIB), Universidad de Castilla-La Mancha (UCLM), C/Almansa 14, 02008, Albacete, Spain.
| | - Alberto Ocaña
- Translational Research Unit, Albacete University Hospital, C/ Francisco Javier de Moya sn, 02006, Albacete, Spain. .,Centro Regional de Investigaciones Biomédicas (CRIB), Universidad de Castilla-La Mancha (UCLM), C/Almansa 14, 02008, Albacete, Spain. .,Unidad de nuevas terapias y Oncología traslacional, Hospital Clínico Universitario San Carlos, IDISSC and CIBERONC, Calle del Prof Martín Lagos, s/n, 28040, Madrid, Spain.
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97
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BRD4 PROTAC as a novel therapeutic approach for the treatment of vemurafenib resistant melanoma: Preformulation studies, formulation development and in vitro evaluation. Eur J Pharm Sci 2019; 138:105039. [PMID: 31394259 DOI: 10.1016/j.ejps.2019.105039] [Citation(s) in RCA: 40] [Impact Index Per Article: 8.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/24/2019] [Revised: 07/30/2019] [Accepted: 08/05/2019] [Indexed: 01/12/2023]
Abstract
Limited therapeutic interventions and development of resistance to targeted therapy within few months of therapy pose a great challenge in the treatment of melanoma. Current work was aimed to investigate; (a) Anticancer activity of a novel class of compound - Bromodomain and Extra-Terminal motif (BET) protein degrader in sensitive and vemurafenib-resistant melanoma (b) Preformulation studies and formulation development. ARV-825 (ARV), a molecule designed using PROteolysis-TArgeting Chimeric (PROTAC) technology, degrades BRD4 protein instead of merely inhibiting it. Based on extensive preformulation studies, ARV loaded self-nanoemulsifying preconcentrate (ARV-SNEP) was developed and optimized. ARV showed extremely poor aqueous solubility (<7 μg/mL) and pH dependent hydrolytic degradation. CaCO-2 cell uptake assay and human liver microsome studies proved that ARV is a substrate of CYP3A4 but not of P-gp efflux pump. Optimized ARV-SNEP spontaneously formed nanoglobules of 45.02 nm with zeta potential of -3.78 mV and significantly enhanced solubility of ARV in various aqueous and bio-relevant media. Most importantly, ARV showed promising cytotoxicity, anti-migration and apoptotic activity against vemurafenib-resistant melanoma cells. ARV-SNEP could be potentially novel therapeutic approach for the treatment of drug-resistant melanoma. This is the very first paper investigating a PROTAC class of molecule for the treatment of drug resistant cancer, preformulation and formulation studies.
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98
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Wang B, Wu S, Liu J, Yang K, Xie H, Tang W. Development of selective small molecule MDM2 degraders based on nutlin. Eur J Med Chem 2019; 176:476-491. [DOI: 10.1016/j.ejmech.2019.05.046] [Citation(s) in RCA: 28] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/02/2019] [Revised: 05/16/2019] [Accepted: 05/16/2019] [Indexed: 01/22/2023]
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99
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Avgan N, Wang JI, Fernandez-Chamorro J, Weatheritt RJ. Multilayered control of exon acquisition permits the emergence of novel forms of regulatory control. Genome Biol 2019; 20:141. [PMID: 31315652 PMCID: PMC6637531 DOI: 10.1186/s13059-019-1757-5] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/18/2019] [Accepted: 07/09/2019] [Indexed: 12/15/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND The long introns of mammals are pools of evolutionary potential due to the multiplicity of sequences that permit the acquisition of novel exons. However, the permissibility of genes to this type of acquisition and its influence on the evolution of cell regulation is poorly understood. RESULTS Here, we observe that human genes are highly permissive to the inclusion of novel exonic regions permitting the emergence of novel regulatory features. Our analysis reveals the potential for novel exon acquisition to occur in over 30% of evaluated human genes. Regulatory processes including the rate of splicing efficiency and RNA polymerase II (RNAPII) elongation control this process by modulating the "window of opportunity" for spliceosomal recognition. DNA damage alters this window promoting the inclusion of repeat-derived novel exons that reduce the ribosomal engagement of cell cycle genes. Finally, we demonstrate that the inclusion of novel exons is suppressed in hematological cancer samples and can be reversed by drugs modulating the rate of RNAPII elongation. CONCLUSION Our work demonstrates that the inclusion of repeat-associated novel intronic regions is a tightly controlled process capable of expanding the regulatory capacity of cells.
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Affiliation(s)
- Nesli Avgan
- EMBL Australia, Garvan Institute of Medical Research, Sydney, NSW, 2010, Australia
| | - Juli I Wang
- EMBL Australia, Garvan Institute of Medical Research, Sydney, NSW, 2010, Australia
- St. Vincent's Clinical School, University of New South Wales, Sydney, NSW, 2010, Australia
| | | | - Robert J Weatheritt
- EMBL Australia, Garvan Institute of Medical Research, Sydney, NSW, 2010, Australia.
- St. Vincent's Clinical School, University of New South Wales, Sydney, NSW, 2010, Australia.
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100
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Abstract
Less than a decade ago, it was shown that bromodomains, acetyl lysine 'reader' modules found in proteins with varied functions, were highly tractable small-molecule targets. This is an unusual property for protein-protein or protein-peptide interaction domains, and it prompted a wave of chemical probe discovery to understand the biological potential of new agents that targeted bromodomains. The original examples, inhibitors of the bromodomain and extra-terminal (BET) class of bromodomains, showed enticing anti-inflammatory and anticancer activities, and several compounds have since advanced to human clinical trials. Here, we review the current state of BET inhibitor biology in relation to clinical development, and we discuss the next wave of bromodomain inhibitors with clinical potential in oncology and non-oncology indications. The lessons learned from BET inhibitor programmes should affect efforts to develop drugs that target non-BET bromodomains and other epigenetic readers.
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