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Burge RA, Hobbs GA. Not all RAS mutations are equal: A detailed review of the functional diversity of RAS hot spot mutations. Adv Cancer Res 2022; 153:29-61. [PMID: 35101234 DOI: 10.1016/bs.acr.2021.07.004] [Citation(s) in RCA: 12] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/29/2022]
Abstract
The RAS family of small GTPases are among the most frequently mutated oncogenes in human cancer. Approximately 20% of cancers harbor a RAS mutation, and >150 different missense mutations have been detected. Many of these mutations have mutant-specific biochemical defects that alter nucleotide binding and hydrolysis, effector interactions and cell signaling, prompting renewed efforts in the development of anti-RAS therapies, including the mutation-specific strategies. Previously viewed as undruggable, the recent FDA approval of a KRASG12C-selective inhibitor has offered real promise to the development of allele-specific RAS therapies. A broader understanding of the mutational consequences on RAS function must be developed to exploit additional allele-specific vulnerabilities. Approximately 94% of RAS mutations occur at one of three mutational "hot spots" at Gly12, Gly13 and Gln61. Further, the single-nucleotide substitutions represent >99% of these mutations. Within this scope, we discuss the mutational frequencies of RAS isoforms in cancer, mutant-specific effector interactions and biochemical properties. By limiting our analysis to this mutational subset, we simplify the analysis while only excluding a small percentage of total mutations. Combined, these data suggest that the presence or absence of select RAS mutations in human cancers can be linked to their biochemical properties. Continuing to examine the biochemical differences in each RAS-mutant protein will continue to provide additional breakthroughs in allele-specific therapeutic strategies.
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Affiliation(s)
- Rachel A Burge
- Department of Cell and Molecular Pharmacology and Experimental Therapeutics, Medical University of South Carolina, Charleston, SC, United States
| | - G Aaron Hobbs
- Department of Cell and Molecular Pharmacology and Experimental Therapeutics, Medical University of South Carolina, Charleston, SC, United States; Hollings Cancer Center, Medical University of South Carolina, Charleston, SC, United States.
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Abstract
In this review, I provide a brief history of the discovery of RAS and the GAPs and GEFs that regulate its activity from a personal perspective. Much of this history has been driven by technological breakthroughs that occurred concurrently, such as molecular cloning, cDNA expression to analyze RAS proteins and their structures, and application of PCR to detect mutations. I discuss the RAS superfamily and RAS proteins as therapeutic targets, including recent advances in developing RAS inhibitors. I also describe the role of the RAS Initiative at Frederick National Laboratory for Cancer Research in advancing development of RAS inhibitors and providing new insights into signaling complexes and interaction of RAS proteins with the plasma membrane.
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Affiliation(s)
- Frank McCormick
- Helen Diller Family Comprehensive Cancer Center, University of California, San Francisco, San Francisco, CA, United States; Frederick National Laboratory for Cancer Research, Frederick, MD, United States.
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53
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Pavic K, Chippalkatti R, Abankwa D. Drug targeting opportunities en route to Ras nanoclusters. Adv Cancer Res 2022; 153:63-99. [PMID: 35101236 DOI: 10.1016/bs.acr.2021.07.005] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/18/2022]
Abstract
Disruption of the native membrane organization of Ras by the farnesyltransferase inhibitor tipifarnib in the late 1990s constituted the first indirect approach to drug target Ras. Since then, our understanding of how dynamically Ras shuttles between subcellular locations has changed significantly. Ras proteins have to arrive at the plasma membrane for efficient MAPK-signal propagation. On the plasma membrane Ras proteins are organized into isoform specific proteo-lipid assemblies called nanocluster. Recent evidence suggests that Ras nanocluster have a specific lipid composition, which supports the recruitment of effectors such as Raf. Conversely, effectors possess lipid-recognition motifs, which appear to serve as co-incidence detectors for the lipid domain of a given Ras isoform. Evidence suggests that dimeric Raf proteins then co-assemble dimeric Ras in an immobile complex, thus forming the minimal unit of an active nanocluster. Here we review established and novel trafficking chaperones and trafficking factors of Ras, along with the set of lipid and protein modulators of Ras nanoclustering. We highlight drug targeting approaches and opportunities against these determinants of functional Ras membrane organization. Finally, we reflect on implications for Ras signaling in polarized cells, such as epithelia, which are a common origin of tumorigenesis.
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Affiliation(s)
- Karolina Pavic
- Cancer Cell Biology and Drug Discovery Group, Department of Life Sciences and Medicine, University of Luxembourg, Esch-sur-Alzette, Luxembourg
| | - Rohan Chippalkatti
- Cancer Cell Biology and Drug Discovery Group, Department of Life Sciences and Medicine, University of Luxembourg, Esch-sur-Alzette, Luxembourg
| | - Daniel Abankwa
- Cancer Cell Biology and Drug Discovery Group, Department of Life Sciences and Medicine, University of Luxembourg, Esch-sur-Alzette, Luxembourg.
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Diehl JN, Hibshman PS, Ozkan-Dagliyan I, Goodwin CM, Howard SV, Cox AD, Der CJ. Targeting the ERK mitogen-activated protein kinase cascade for the treatment of KRAS-mutant pancreatic cancer. Adv Cancer Res 2022; 153:101-130. [PMID: 35101228 DOI: 10.1016/bs.acr.2021.07.008] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/19/2022]
Abstract
Mutational activation of the KRAS oncogene is found in ~95% of pancreatic ductal adenocarcinoma (PDAC), the major form of pancreatic cancer. With substantial experimental evidence that continued aberrant KRAS function is essential for the maintenance of PDAC tumorigenic growth, the National Cancer Institute has identified the development of effective anti-KRAS therapies as one of four major initiatives for pancreatic cancer research. The recent clinical success in the development of an anti-KRAS therapy targeting one specific KRAS mutant (G12C) supports the significant potential impact of anti-KRAS therapies. However, KRASG12C mutations comprise only 2% of KRAS mutations in PDAC. Thus, there remains a dire need for additional therapeutic approaches for targeting the majority of KRAS-mutant PDAC. Among the different directions currently being pursued for anti-KRAS drug development, one of the most promising involves inhibitors of the key KRAS effector pathway, the three-tiered RAF-MEK-ERK mitogen-activated protein kinase (MAPK) cascade. We address the promises and challenges of targeting ERK MAPK signaling as an anti-KRAS therapy for PDAC. In particular, we also summarize the key role of the MYC transcription factor and oncoprotein in supporting ERK-dependent growth of KRAS-mutant PDAC.
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Affiliation(s)
- J Nathaniel Diehl
- Curriculum in Genetics and Molecular Biology, University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill, Chapel Hill, NC, United States
| | - Priya S Hibshman
- Cell Biology and Physiology Curriculum, University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill, Chapel Hill, NC, United States
| | - Irem Ozkan-Dagliyan
- Department of Pharmacology, University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill, Chapel Hill, NC, United States
| | - Craig M Goodwin
- Lineberger Comprehensive Cancer Center, University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill, Chapel Hill, NC, United States
| | - Sarah V Howard
- Lineberger Comprehensive Cancer Center, University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill, Chapel Hill, NC, United States
| | - Adrienne D Cox
- Cell Biology and Physiology Curriculum, University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill, Chapel Hill, NC, United States; Department of Pharmacology, University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill, Chapel Hill, NC, United States; Lineberger Comprehensive Cancer Center, University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill, Chapel Hill, NC, United States; Department of Radiation Oncology, University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill, Chapel Hill, NC, United States
| | - Channing J Der
- Curriculum in Genetics and Molecular Biology, University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill, Chapel Hill, NC, United States; Cell Biology and Physiology Curriculum, University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill, Chapel Hill, NC, United States; Department of Pharmacology, University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill, Chapel Hill, NC, United States; Lineberger Comprehensive Cancer Center, University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill, Chapel Hill, NC, United States.
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Abstract
Multiple myeloma is a common hematological malignancy of plasma cells, the terminally differentiated B cells that secrete antibodies as part of the adaptive immune response. Significant progress has been made in treating multiple myeloma, but this disease remains largely incurable, and most patients will eventually suffer a relapse of disease that becomes refractory to further therapies. Moreover, a portion of patients with multiple myeloma present with disease that is refractory to all treatments from the initial diagnosis, and no current therapeutic approaches can help. Therefore, the task remains to advance new therapeutic strategies to help these vulnerable patients. One strategy to meet this challenge is to unravel the complex web of pathogenic signaling pathways in malignant plasma cells and use this information to design novel precision medicine strategies to assist these patients most at risk.
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Affiliation(s)
- Arnold Bolomsky
- Wilhelminen Cancer Research Institute, Dept. of Medicine I, Wilhelminenspital, Vienna Austria
| | - Ryan M. Young
- National Institutes of Health, National Cancer Institute, Center for Cancer Research, Lymphoid Malignancies Branch, Bethesda MD 20892,Lymphoid Malignancies Branch, Center for Cancer Research, National Institutes of Health, 9000 Rockville Pike, Bethesda, MD. 20892, , 240-858-3513
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Abstract
The RASopathies are a group of disorders caused by a germline mutation in one of the genes encoding a component of the RAS/MAPK pathway. These disorders, including neurofibromatosis type 1, Noonan syndrome, cardiofaciocutaneous syndrome, Costello syndrome and Legius syndrome, among others, have overlapping clinical features due to RAS/MAPK dysfunction. Although several of the RASopathies are very rare, collectively, these disorders are relatively common. In this Review, we discuss the pathogenesis of the RASopathy-associated genetic variants and the knowledge gained about RAS/MAPK signaling that resulted from studying RASopathies. We also describe the cell and animal models of the RASopathies and explore emerging RASopathy genes. Preclinical and clinical experiences with targeted agents as therapeutics for RASopathies are also discussed. Finally, we review how the recently developed drugs targeting RAS/MAPK-driven malignancies, such as inhibitors of RAS activation, direct RAS inhibitors and RAS/MAPK pathway inhibitors, might be leveraged for patients with RASopathies.
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Affiliation(s)
- Katie E Hebron
- Pediatric Oncology Branch, Center for Cancer Research, National Cancer Institute, Bethesda, MD 20892, USA
| | - Edjay Ralph Hernandez
- Pediatric Oncology Branch, Center for Cancer Research, National Cancer Institute, Bethesda, MD 20892, USA
| | - Marielle E Yohe
- Pediatric Oncology Branch, Center for Cancer Research, National Cancer Institute, Bethesda, MD 20892, USA
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Yao K, Zhou E, Cheng C. A B-Raf V600E gene signature for melanoma predicts prognosis and reveals sensitivity to targeted therapies. Cancer Med 2022; 11:1232-1243. [PMID: 35044091 PMCID: PMC8855909 DOI: 10.1002/cam4.4491] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/21/2021] [Revised: 11/15/2021] [Accepted: 11/18/2021] [Indexed: 12/02/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND B-Raf V600E mutations account for about half of all skin cutaneous melanoma cases, and patients with this mutation are sensitive to BRAF inhibitors. However, aberrations in other genes in the MAPK/ERK pathway may cascade a similar effect as B-Raf V600E mutations, rendering those patients sensitive to BRAF inhibitors. We rationalized that defining a signature based on B-Raf pathway activity may be more informative for prognosis and drug sensitivity prediction than a binary indicator such as mutation status. METHODS In this study, we defined a B-Raf signature score using RNA-seq data from TCGA. A higher score is shown to not only predict B-Raf mutation status, but also predict other aberrations that could similarly activate the MAPK/ERK pathway, such as B-Raf amplification, RAS mutation, and EGFR amplification. RESULTS We showed that patients dichotomized by the median B-Raf score is more significantly stratified than by other metrics of measuring B-Raf aberration, such as mutation status, gene expression, and protein expression. We also demonstrated that high B-Raf score predicts higher sensitivity to B-Raf inhibitors SB590885 and PLX4720, as expected, but also correlated with sensitivity to drugs targeting other relevant oncogenic pathways. CONCLUSION The BRAF signature may better help guide targeted therapy for melanoma, and such a framework can be applied to other cancers and mutations to provide more information than mutation status alone.
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Affiliation(s)
- Kevin Yao
- Department of Electrical and Computer EngineeringTexas A&M UniversityCollege StationTexasUSA
| | - Emily Zhou
- Department of BiosciencesRice UniversityHoustonTexasUSA
| | - Chao Cheng
- Department of MedicineBaylor College of MedicineHoustonTexasUSA
- Dan L Duncan Comprehensive Cancer CenterBaylor College of MedicineHoustonTexasUSA
- Institute for Clinical and Transcriptional ResearchBaylor College of MedicineHoustonTexasUSA
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Ozdemir ES, Koester AM, Nan X. Ras Multimers on the Membrane: Many Ways for a Heart-to-Heart Conversation. Genes (Basel) 2022; 13:219. [PMID: 35205266 PMCID: PMC8872464 DOI: 10.3390/genes13020219] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/07/2022] [Revised: 01/20/2022] [Accepted: 01/21/2022] [Indexed: 12/31/2022] Open
Abstract
Formation of Ras multimers, including dimers and nanoclusters, has emerged as an exciting, new front of research in the 'old' field of Ras biomedicine. With significant advances made in the past few years, we are beginning to understand the structure of Ras multimers and, albeit preliminary, mechanisms that regulate their formation in vitro and in cells. Here we aim to synthesize the knowledge accrued thus far on Ras multimers, particularly the presence of multiple globular (G-) domain interfaces, and discuss how membrane nanodomain composition and structure would influence Ras multimer formation. We end with some general thoughts on the potential implications of Ras multimers in basic and translational biology.
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Affiliation(s)
- E. Sila Ozdemir
- Cancer Early Detection Advanced Research Center, Knight Cancer Institute, Oregon Health & Science University, 2720 S Moody Ave., Portland, OR 97201, USA;
| | - Anna M. Koester
- Program in Quantitative and Systems Biology, Department of Biomedical Engineering, Oregon Health & Science University, 2730 S Moody Ave., Portland, OR 97201, USA;
| | - Xiaolin Nan
- Cancer Early Detection Advanced Research Center, Knight Cancer Institute, Oregon Health & Science University, 2720 S Moody Ave., Portland, OR 97201, USA;
- Program in Quantitative and Systems Biology, Department of Biomedical Engineering, Oregon Health & Science University, 2730 S Moody Ave., Portland, OR 97201, USA;
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Yin G, Lv G, Zhang J, Jiang H, Lai T, Yang Y, Ren Y, Wang J, Yi C, Chen H, Huang Y, Xiao C. Early-stage structure-based drug discovery for small GTPases by NMR spectroscopy. Pharmacol Ther 2022; 236:108110. [PMID: 35007659 DOI: 10.1016/j.pharmthera.2022.108110] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/22/2021] [Revised: 01/04/2022] [Accepted: 01/05/2022] [Indexed: 12/13/2022]
Abstract
Small GTPase or Ras superfamily, including Ras, Rho, Rab, Ran and Arf, are fundamental in regulating a wide range of cellular processes such as growth, differentiation, migration and apoptosis. They share structural and functional similarities for binding guanine nucleotides and hydrolyzing GTP. Dysregulations of Ras proteins are involved in the pathophysiology of multiple human diseases, however there is still a stringent need for effective treatments targeting these proteins. For decades, small GTPases were recognized as 'undruggable' targets due to their complex regulatory mechanisms and lack of deep pockets for ligand binding. NMR has been critical in deciphering the structural and dynamic properties of the switch regions that are underpinning molecular switch functions of small GTPases, which pave the way for developing new effective inhibitors. The recent progress of drug or lead molecule development made for small GTPases profoundly delineated how modern NMR techniques reshape the field of drug discovery. In this review, we will summarize the progress of structural and dynamic studies of small GTPases, the NMR techniques developed for structure-based drug screening and their applications in early-stage drug discovery for small GTPases.
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Affiliation(s)
- Guowei Yin
- The Seventh Affiliated Hospital of Sun Yat-sen University, Shenzhen 518107, China.
| | - Guohua Lv
- Division of Histology & Embryology, Medical College, Jinan University, Guangzhou 511486, Guangdong, China
| | - Jerry Zhang
- University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill School of Medicine, Chapel Hill, NC 27516, USA
| | - Hongmei Jiang
- The Seventh Affiliated Hospital of Sun Yat-sen University, Shenzhen 518107, China
| | - Tianqi Lai
- Division of Histology & Embryology, Medical College, Jinan University, Guangzhou 511486, Guangdong, China
| | - Yushan Yang
- The Seventh Affiliated Hospital of Sun Yat-sen University, Shenzhen 518107, China
| | - Yong Ren
- The Seventh Affiliated Hospital of Sun Yat-sen University, Shenzhen 518107, China
| | - Jing Wang
- College of Life Sciences, Northwest University, Xi'an 710069, Shaanxi, China
| | - Chenju Yi
- The Seventh Affiliated Hospital of Sun Yat-sen University, Shenzhen 518107, China
| | - Hao Chen
- Key Laboratory of Biomedical Information Engineering of Ministry of Education, Biomedical Informatics & Genomics Center, School of Life Science and Technology, Xi'an Jiaotong University, Xi'an, Shaanxi Province 710049, PR China; Research Institute of Xi'an Jiaotong University, Zhejiang, Hangzhou, Zhejiang Province 311215, PR China
| | - Yun Huang
- Howard Hughes Medical Institute, Chevy Chase 20815, MD, USA; Department of Physiology & Biophysics, Weill Cornell Medicine, New York 10065, NY, USA.
| | - Chaoni Xiao
- College of Life Sciences, Northwest University, Xi'an 710069, Shaanxi, China.
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Seshacharyulu P, Halder S, Nimmakayala R, Rachagani S, Chaudhary S, Atri P, Chirravuri-Venkata R, Ouellette MM, Carmicheal J, Gautam SK, Vengoji R, Wang S, Li S, Smith L, Talmon GA, Klute K, Ly Q, Reames BN, Grem JL, Berim L, Padussis JC, Kaur S, Kumar S, Ponnusamy MP, Jain M, Lin C, Batra SK. Disruption of FDPS/Rac1 axis radiosensitizes pancreatic ductal adenocarcinoma by attenuating DNA damage response and immunosuppressive signalling. EBioMedicine 2021; 75:103772. [PMID: 34971971 PMCID: PMC8718746 DOI: 10.1016/j.ebiom.2021.103772] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/30/2021] [Revised: 11/22/2021] [Accepted: 12/07/2021] [Indexed: 12/04/2022] Open
Abstract
Background Radiation therapy (RT) has a suboptimal effect in patients with pancreatic ductal adenocarcinoma (PDAC) due to intrinsic and acquired radioresistance (RR). Comprehensive bioinformatics and microarray analysis revealed that cholesterol biosynthesis (CBS) is involved in the RR of PDAC. We now tested the inhibition of the CBS pathway enzyme, farnesyl diphosphate synthase (FDPS), by zoledronic acid (Zol) to enhance radiation and activate immune cells. Methods We investigated the role of FDPS in PDAC RR using the following methods: in vitro cell-based assay, immunohistochemistry, immunofluorescence, immunoblot, cell-based cholesterol assay, RNA sequencing, tumouroids (KPC-murine and PDAC patient-derived), orthotopic models, and PDAC patient's clinical study. Findings FDPS overexpression in PDAC tissues and cells (P < 0.01 and P < 0.05) is associated with poor RT response and survival (P = 0.024). CRISPR/Cas9 and pharmacological inhibition (Zol) of FDPS in human and mouse syngeneic PDAC cells in conjunction with RT conferred higher PDAC radiosensitivity in vitro (P < 0.05, P < 0.01, and P < 0.001) and in vivo (P < 0.05). Interestingly, murine (P = 0.01) and human (P = 0.0159) tumouroids treated with Zol+RT showed a significant growth reduction. Mechanistically, RNA-Seq analysis of the PDAC xenografts and patients-PBMCs revealed that Zol exerts radiosensitization by affecting Rac1 and Rho prenylation, thereby modulating DNA damage and radiation response signalling along with improved systemic immune cells activation. An ongoing phase I/II trial (NCT03073785) showed improved failure-free survival (FFS), enhanced immune cell activation, and decreased microenvironment-related genes upon Zol+RT treatment. Interpretation Our findings suggest that FDPS is a novel radiosensitization target for PDAC therapy. This study also provides a rationale to utilize Zol as a potential radiosensitizer and as an immunomodulator in PDAC and other cancers. Funding National Institutes of Health (P50, P01, and R01).
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Affiliation(s)
- Parthasarathy Seshacharyulu
- Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, University of Nebraska Medical Center, Omaha, NE 68198-5870, USA.
| | - Sushanta Halder
- Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, University of Nebraska Medical Center, Omaha, NE 68198-5870, USA
| | - Ramakrishna Nimmakayala
- Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, University of Nebraska Medical Center, Omaha, NE 68198-5870, USA
| | - Satyanarayana Rachagani
- Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, University of Nebraska Medical Center, Omaha, NE 68198-5870, USA
| | - Sanjib Chaudhary
- Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, University of Nebraska Medical Center, Omaha, NE 68198-5870, USA
| | - Pranita Atri
- Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, University of Nebraska Medical Center, Omaha, NE 68198-5870, USA
| | - Ramakanth Chirravuri-Venkata
- Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, University of Nebraska Medical Center, Omaha, NE 68198-5870, USA
| | - Michel M Ouellette
- Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, University of Nebraska Medical Center, Omaha, NE 68198-5870, USA; Division of Gastroenterology and Hepatology, Department of Internal Medicine, University of Nebraska Medical Center, Omaha, NE, USA; Fred and Pamela Buffet Cancer Center, Eppley Institute for Research in Cancer and Allied Diseases, University of Nebraska Medical Center, Omaha, NE, USA
| | - Joseph Carmicheal
- Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, University of Nebraska Medical Center, Omaha, NE 68198-5870, USA
| | - Shailendra K Gautam
- Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, University of Nebraska Medical Center, Omaha, NE 68198-5870, USA
| | - Raghupathy Vengoji
- Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, University of Nebraska Medical Center, Omaha, NE 68198-5870, USA
| | - Shuo Wang
- Department of Radiation Oncology, University of Nebraska Medical Center, Omaha, NE 68198-6861, USA
| | - Sicong Li
- Department of Radiation Oncology, University of Nebraska Medical Center, Omaha, NE 68198-6861, USA
| | - Lynette Smith
- Department of Statistics, University of Nebraska Medical Center, Omaha, NE, USA
| | - Geoffrey A Talmon
- Department of Pathology and Microbiology, University of Nebraska Medical Center, Omaha, NE, USA
| | - Kelsey Klute
- Division of Oncology-Hematology, Department of Internal Medicine, University of Nebraska Medical Center, Omaha, NE, USA
| | - Quan Ly
- Division of Surgical Oncology, Fred and Pamela Buffett Cancer Center, University of Nebraska Medical Center, Omaha, NE, USA
| | - Bradley N Reames
- Division of Surgical Oncology, Fred and Pamela Buffett Cancer Center, University of Nebraska Medical Center, Omaha, NE, USA
| | - Jean L Grem
- Division of Oncology-Hematology, Department of Internal Medicine, University of Nebraska Medical Center, Omaha, NE, USA
| | - Lyudmyla Berim
- Division of Medical Oncology, Rutgers Cancer Institute of New Jersey, Rutgers Robert Wood Johnson Medical School, Rutgers University, New Brunswick, NJ, USA
| | - James C Padussis
- Division of Surgical Oncology, Fred and Pamela Buffett Cancer Center, University of Nebraska Medical Center, Omaha, NE, USA
| | - Sukhwinder Kaur
- Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, University of Nebraska Medical Center, Omaha, NE 68198-5870, USA
| | - Sushil Kumar
- Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, University of Nebraska Medical Center, Omaha, NE 68198-5870, USA
| | - Moorthy P Ponnusamy
- Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, University of Nebraska Medical Center, Omaha, NE 68198-5870, USA; Fred and Pamela Buffet Cancer Center, Eppley Institute for Research in Cancer and Allied Diseases, University of Nebraska Medical Center, Omaha, NE, USA
| | - Maneesh Jain
- Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, University of Nebraska Medical Center, Omaha, NE 68198-5870, USA; Fred and Pamela Buffet Cancer Center, Eppley Institute for Research in Cancer and Allied Diseases, University of Nebraska Medical Center, Omaha, NE, USA
| | - Chi Lin
- Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, University of Nebraska Medical Center, Omaha, NE 68198-5870, USA; Department of Radiation Oncology, University of Nebraska Medical Center, Omaha, NE 68198-6861, USA; Fred and Pamela Buffet Cancer Center, Eppley Institute for Research in Cancer and Allied Diseases, University of Nebraska Medical Center, Omaha, NE, USA.
| | - Surinder K Batra
- Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, University of Nebraska Medical Center, Omaha, NE 68198-5870, USA; Department of Pathology and Microbiology, University of Nebraska Medical Center, Omaha, NE, USA; Fred and Pamela Buffet Cancer Center, Eppley Institute for Research in Cancer and Allied Diseases, University of Nebraska Medical Center, Omaha, NE, USA.
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Acar S, Armstrong AE, Hirbe AC. Plexiform neurofibroma: shedding light on the investigational agents in clinical trials. Expert Opin Investig Drugs 2021; 31:31-40. [PMID: 34932916 DOI: 10.1080/13543784.2022.2022120] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/19/2022]
Abstract
INTRODUCTION Neurofibromatosis Type 1 (NF1) is an autosomal dominant genetic condition, which predisposes individuals to the development of plexiform neurofibromas (PN), benign nerve sheath tumors seen in 30-50% of patients with NF1. These tumors may cause significant pain and disfigurement or may compromise organ function. Given the morbidity associated with these tumors, therapeutic options for patients with NF1-related PN are necessary. AREAS COVERED We searched the www.clinicaltrials.gov database for 'plexiform neurofibroma.' This article summarizes completed and ongoing trials involving systemic therapies for PN. EXPERT OPINION Surgery is the mainstay treatment; however, complete resection is not possible in many cases. Numerous systemic therapies have been evaluated in patients with NF1, with MEK inhibitors (MEKi) showing the greatest efficacy for volumetric reduction and improvement in functional and patient-reported outcomes. The MEKi selumetinib is now FDA approved for the treatment of inoperable, symptomatic PN in pediatric NF1 patients. Questions remain regarding the use of this drug class in terms of when to initiate therapy, overall duration, reduced dosing schedules, and side effect management. Future studies are needed to fully understand the clinical application of MEKi and to evaluate other potential therapies through appropriate trial designs for this potentially devastating, manifestation in NF1.
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Affiliation(s)
- Simge Acar
- Division of Oncology, Department of Medicine, Washington University School of Medicine, St. Louis, MO, USA.,School of Medicine, Koç University, Istanbul, Turkey
| | - Amy E Armstrong
- Division of Hematology and Oncology, Department of Pediatrics, Washington University School of Medicine, St. Louis, Mo, USA.,Siteman Cancer Center, Washington University School of Medicine, St. Louis, MO, USA
| | - Angela C Hirbe
- Division of Oncology, Department of Medicine, Washington University School of Medicine, St. Louis, MO, USA.,Division of Hematology and Oncology, Department of Pediatrics, Washington University School of Medicine, St. Louis, Mo, USA.,Siteman Cancer Center, Washington University School of Medicine, St. Louis, MO, USA
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Ritu K, Kumar P, Singh A, Nupur K, Spalgias S, Mrigpuri P, Rajkumar. Untangling the KRAS mutated lung cancer subsets and its therapeutic implications. MOLECULAR BIOMEDICINE 2021; 2:40. [PMID: 34918209 PMCID: PMC8677854 DOI: 10.1186/s43556-021-00061-0] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/20/2021] [Accepted: 11/10/2021] [Indexed: 12/15/2022] Open
Abstract
The Kirsten rat sarcoma virus transforming protein (KRAS) mutations (predominate in codons 12, 13, and 61) and genomically drive nearly one-third of lung carcinomas. These mutations have complex functions in tumorigenesis, and influence the tumor response to chemotherapy and tyrosine kinase inhibitors resulting in a poorer patient prognosis. Recent attempts using targeted therapies against KRAS alone have met with little success. The existence of specific subsets of lung cancer based on KRAS mutations and coexisting mutations are suggested. Their interactions need further elaboration before newer promising targeted therapies for KRAS mutant lung cancers can be used as earlier lines of therapy. We summarize the existing knowledge of KRAS mutations and their coexisting mutations that is relevant to lung cancer treatment, in this review. We elaborate on the prognostic impact of clinical and pathologic characteristics of lung cancer patients associated with KRAS mutations. We briefly review the currently available techniques for KRAS mutation detection on biopsy and cytology samples. Finally, we discuss the new therapeutic strategies for targeting KRAS-mutant non-small cell lung cancer (NSCLC). These may herald a new era in the treatment of KRASG12Cmutated NSCLC as well as be helpful to develop demographic subsets to predict targeted therapies and prognosis of lung cancer patients.
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Jacobs F, Cani M, Malapelle U, Novello S, Napoli VM, Bironzo P. Targeting KRAS in NSCLC: Old Failures and New Options for "Non-G12c" Patients. Cancers (Basel) 2021; 13:6332. [PMID: 34944952 PMCID: PMC8699276 DOI: 10.3390/cancers13246332] [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: 11/11/2021] [Revised: 12/13/2021] [Accepted: 12/15/2021] [Indexed: 12/12/2022] Open
Abstract
Kirsten Rat Sarcoma Viral Oncogene Homolog (KRAS) gene mutations are among the most common driver alterations in non-small cell lung cancer (NSCLC). Despite their high frequency, valid treatment options are still lacking, mainly due to an intrinsic complexity of both the protein structure and the downstream pathway. The increasing knowledge about different mutation subtypes and co-mutations has paved the way to several promising therapeutic strategies. Despite the best results so far having been obtained in patients harbouring KRAS exon 2 p.G12C mutation, even the treatment landscape of non-p.G12C KRAS mutation positive patients is predicted to change soon. This review provides a comprehensive and critical overview of ongoing studies into NSCLC patients with KRAS mutations other than p.G12C and discusses future scenarios that will hopefully change the story of this disease.
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Affiliation(s)
- Francesca Jacobs
- Department of Oncology, University of Turin, AOU San Luigi Gonzaga, 10043 Turin, Italy; (F.J.); (M.C.); (S.N.); (V.M.N.)
| | - Massimiliano Cani
- Department of Oncology, University of Turin, AOU San Luigi Gonzaga, 10043 Turin, Italy; (F.J.); (M.C.); (S.N.); (V.M.N.)
| | - Umberto Malapelle
- Department of Public Health, University of Naples Federico II, 80138 Naples, Italy;
| | - Silvia Novello
- Department of Oncology, University of Turin, AOU San Luigi Gonzaga, 10043 Turin, Italy; (F.J.); (M.C.); (S.N.); (V.M.N.)
| | - Valerio Maria Napoli
- Department of Oncology, University of Turin, AOU San Luigi Gonzaga, 10043 Turin, Italy; (F.J.); (M.C.); (S.N.); (V.M.N.)
| | - Paolo Bironzo
- Department of Oncology, University of Turin, AOU San Luigi Gonzaga, 10043 Turin, Italy; (F.J.); (M.C.); (S.N.); (V.M.N.)
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64
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Clinical Translation of Combined MAPK and Autophagy Inhibition in RAS Mutant Cancer. Int J Mol Sci 2021; 22:ijms222212402. [PMID: 34830283 PMCID: PMC8623813 DOI: 10.3390/ijms222212402] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/30/2021] [Revised: 11/09/2021] [Accepted: 11/12/2021] [Indexed: 01/23/2023] Open
Abstract
RAS (rat sarcoma virus) mutant cancers remain difficult to treat despite the advances in targeted therapy and immunotherapy. Targeted therapies against the components of mitogen-activated protein kinase (MAPK) pathways, including RAS, RAF, MEK, and ERK, have demonstrated activity in BRAF mutant and, in limited cases, RAS mutant cancer. RAS mutant cancers have been found to activate adaptive resistance mechanisms such as autophagy during MAPK inhibition. Here, we review the recent clinically relevant advances in the development of the MAPK pathway and autophagy inhibitors and focus on their application to RAS mutant cancers. We provide analysis of the preclinical rationale for combining the MAPK pathway and autophagy and highlight the most recent clinical trials that have been launched to capitalize on this potentially synthetic lethal approach to cancer therapy.
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65
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Huang L, Guo Z, Wang F, Fu L. KRAS mutation: from undruggable to druggable in cancer. Signal Transduct Target Ther 2021; 6:386. [PMID: 34776511 PMCID: PMC8591115 DOI: 10.1038/s41392-021-00780-4] [Citation(s) in RCA: 279] [Impact Index Per Article: 93.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/14/2021] [Revised: 09/19/2021] [Accepted: 09/23/2021] [Indexed: 12/11/2022] Open
Abstract
Cancer is the leading cause of death worldwide, and its treatment and outcomes have been dramatically revolutionised by targeted therapies. As the most frequently mutated oncogene, Kirsten rat sarcoma viral oncogene homologue (KRAS) has attracted substantial attention. The understanding of KRAS is constantly being updated by numerous studies on KRAS in the initiation and progression of cancer diseases. However, KRAS has been deemed a challenging therapeutic target, even "undruggable", after drug-targeting efforts over the past four decades. Recently, there have been surprising advances in directly targeted drugs for KRAS, especially in KRAS (G12C) inhibitors, such as AMG510 (sotorasib) and MRTX849 (adagrasib), which have obtained encouraging results in clinical trials. Excitingly, AMG510 was the first drug-targeting KRAS (G12C) to be approved for clinical use this year. This review summarises the most recent understanding of fundamental aspects of KRAS, the relationship between the KRAS mutations and tumour immune evasion, and new progress in targeting KRAS, particularly KRAS (G12C). Moreover, the possible mechanisms of resistance to KRAS (G12C) inhibitors and possible combination therapies are summarised, with a view to providing the best regimen for individualised treatment with KRAS (G12C) inhibitors and achieving truly precise treatment.
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Affiliation(s)
- Lamei Huang
- grid.488530.20000 0004 1803 6191State Key Laboratory of Oncology in South China; Collaborative Innovation Center for Cancer Medicine; Guangdong Esophageal Cancer Institute, Sun Yat-Sen University Cancer Center, Guangzhou, 510060 P. R. China
| | - Zhixing Guo
- grid.488530.20000 0004 1803 6191State Key Laboratory of Oncology in South China; Collaborative Innovation Center for Cancer Medicine; Guangdong Esophageal Cancer Institute, Sun Yat-Sen University Cancer Center, Guangzhou, 510060 P. R. China
| | - Fang Wang
- grid.488530.20000 0004 1803 6191State Key Laboratory of Oncology in South China; Collaborative Innovation Center for Cancer Medicine; Guangdong Esophageal Cancer Institute, Sun Yat-Sen University Cancer Center, Guangzhou, 510060 P. R. China
| | - Liwu Fu
- State Key Laboratory of Oncology in South China; Collaborative Innovation Center for Cancer Medicine; Guangdong Esophageal Cancer Institute, Sun Yat-Sen University Cancer Center, Guangzhou, 510060, P. R. China.
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66
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Hu HF, Ye Z, Qin Y, Xu XW, Yu XJ, Zhuo QF, Ji SR. Mutations in key driver genes of pancreatic cancer: molecularly targeted therapies and other clinical implications. Acta Pharmacol Sin 2021; 42:1725-1741. [PMID: 33574569 PMCID: PMC8563973 DOI: 10.1038/s41401-020-00584-2] [Citation(s) in RCA: 50] [Impact Index Per Article: 16.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/12/2020] [Accepted: 11/16/2020] [Indexed: 02/08/2023] Open
Abstract
Pancreatic ductal adenocarcinoma (PDAC) is one of the most lethal cancers, with a minimal difference between its incidence rate and mortality rate. Advances in oncology over the past several decades have dramatically improved the overall survival of patients with multiple cancers due to the implementation of new techniques in early diagnosis, therapeutic drugs, and personalized therapy. However, pancreatic cancers remain recalcitrant, with a 5-year relative survival rate of <9%. The lack of measures for early diagnosis, strong resistance to chemotherapy, ineffective adjuvant chemotherapy and the unavailability of molecularly targeted therapy are responsible for the high mortality rate of this notorious disease. Genetically, PDAC progresses as a complex result of the activation of oncogenes and inactivation of tumor suppressors. Although next-generation sequencing has identified numerous new genetic alterations, their clinical implications remain unknown. Classically, oncogenic mutations in genes such as KRAS and loss-of-function mutations in tumor suppressors, such as TP53, CDNK2A, DPC4/SMAD4, and BRCA2, are frequently observed in PDAC. Currently, research on these key driver genes is still the main focus. Therefore, studies assessing the functions of these genes and their potential clinical implications are of paramount importance. In this review, we summarize the biological function of key driver genes and pharmaceutical targets in PDAC. In addition, we conclude the results of molecularly targeted therapies in clinical trials and discuss how to utilize these genetic alterations in further clinical practice.
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Affiliation(s)
- Hai-feng Hu
- grid.452404.30000 0004 1808 0942Department of Pancreatic Surgery, Fudan University Shanghai Cancer Center, Shanghai, 200032 China ,grid.8547.e0000 0001 0125 2443Department of Oncology, Shanghai Medical College, Fudan University, Shanghai, 200032 China ,grid.452404.30000 0004 1808 0942Shanghai Pancreatic Cancer Institute, Shanghai, 200032 China ,grid.8547.e0000 0001 0125 2443Pancreatic Cancer Institute, Fudan University, Shanghai, 200032 China
| | - Zeng Ye
- grid.452404.30000 0004 1808 0942Department of Pancreatic Surgery, Fudan University Shanghai Cancer Center, Shanghai, 200032 China ,grid.8547.e0000 0001 0125 2443Department of Oncology, Shanghai Medical College, Fudan University, Shanghai, 200032 China ,grid.452404.30000 0004 1808 0942Shanghai Pancreatic Cancer Institute, Shanghai, 200032 China ,grid.8547.e0000 0001 0125 2443Pancreatic Cancer Institute, Fudan University, Shanghai, 200032 China
| | - Yi Qin
- grid.452404.30000 0004 1808 0942Department of Pancreatic Surgery, Fudan University Shanghai Cancer Center, Shanghai, 200032 China ,grid.8547.e0000 0001 0125 2443Department of Oncology, Shanghai Medical College, Fudan University, Shanghai, 200032 China ,grid.452404.30000 0004 1808 0942Shanghai Pancreatic Cancer Institute, Shanghai, 200032 China ,grid.8547.e0000 0001 0125 2443Pancreatic Cancer Institute, Fudan University, Shanghai, 200032 China
| | - Xiao-wu Xu
- grid.452404.30000 0004 1808 0942Department of Pancreatic Surgery, Fudan University Shanghai Cancer Center, Shanghai, 200032 China ,grid.8547.e0000 0001 0125 2443Department of Oncology, Shanghai Medical College, Fudan University, Shanghai, 200032 China ,grid.452404.30000 0004 1808 0942Shanghai Pancreatic Cancer Institute, Shanghai, 200032 China ,grid.8547.e0000 0001 0125 2443Pancreatic Cancer Institute, Fudan University, Shanghai, 200032 China
| | - Xian-jun Yu
- grid.452404.30000 0004 1808 0942Department of Pancreatic Surgery, Fudan University Shanghai Cancer Center, Shanghai, 200032 China ,grid.8547.e0000 0001 0125 2443Department of Oncology, Shanghai Medical College, Fudan University, Shanghai, 200032 China ,grid.452404.30000 0004 1808 0942Shanghai Pancreatic Cancer Institute, Shanghai, 200032 China ,grid.8547.e0000 0001 0125 2443Pancreatic Cancer Institute, Fudan University, Shanghai, 200032 China
| | - Qi-feng Zhuo
- grid.452404.30000 0004 1808 0942Department of Pancreatic Surgery, Fudan University Shanghai Cancer Center, Shanghai, 200032 China ,grid.8547.e0000 0001 0125 2443Department of Oncology, Shanghai Medical College, Fudan University, Shanghai, 200032 China ,grid.452404.30000 0004 1808 0942Shanghai Pancreatic Cancer Institute, Shanghai, 200032 China ,grid.8547.e0000 0001 0125 2443Pancreatic Cancer Institute, Fudan University, Shanghai, 200032 China
| | - Shun-rong Ji
- grid.452404.30000 0004 1808 0942Department of Pancreatic Surgery, Fudan University Shanghai Cancer Center, Shanghai, 200032 China ,grid.8547.e0000 0001 0125 2443Department of Oncology, Shanghai Medical College, Fudan University, Shanghai, 200032 China ,grid.452404.30000 0004 1808 0942Shanghai Pancreatic Cancer Institute, Shanghai, 200032 China ,grid.8547.e0000 0001 0125 2443Pancreatic Cancer Institute, Fudan University, Shanghai, 200032 China
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Nussinov R, Zhang M, Maloney R, Tsai CJ, Yavuz BR, Tuncbag N, Jang H. Mechanism of activation and the rewired network: New drug design concepts. Med Res Rev 2021; 42:770-799. [PMID: 34693559 PMCID: PMC8837674 DOI: 10.1002/med.21863] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/29/2021] [Revised: 07/06/2021] [Accepted: 10/07/2021] [Indexed: 12/13/2022]
Abstract
Precision oncology benefits from effective early phase drug discovery decisions. Recently, drugging inactive protein conformations has shown impressive successes, raising the cardinal questions of which targets can profit and what are the principles of the active/inactive protein pharmacology. Cancer driver mutations have been established to mimic the protein activation mechanism. We suggest that the decision whether to target an inactive (or active) conformation should largely rest on the protein mechanism of activation. We next discuss the recent identification of double (multiple) same-allele driver mutations and their impact on cell proliferation and suggest that like single driver mutations, double drivers also mimic the mechanism of activation. We further suggest that the structural perturbations of double (multiple) in cis mutations may reveal new surfaces/pockets for drug design. Finally, we underscore the preeminent role of the cellular network which is deregulated in cancer. Our structure-based review and outlook updates the traditional Mechanism of Action, informs decisions, and calls attention to the intrinsic activation mechanism of the target protein and the rewired tumor-specific network, ushering innovative considerations in precision medicine.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ruth Nussinov
- Computational Structural Biology Section, Frederick National Laboratory for Cancer Research in the Laboratory of Cancer Immunometabolism, National Cancer Institute, Frederick, Maryland, USA.,Department of Human Molecular Genetics and Biochemistry, Sackler School of Medicine, Tel Aviv University, Tel Aviv, Israel
| | - Mingzhen Zhang
- Computational Structural Biology Section, Frederick National Laboratory for Cancer Research in the Laboratory of Cancer Immunometabolism, National Cancer Institute, Frederick, Maryland, USA
| | - Ryan Maloney
- Computational Structural Biology Section, Frederick National Laboratory for Cancer Research in the Laboratory of Cancer Immunometabolism, National Cancer Institute, Frederick, Maryland, USA
| | - Chung-Jung Tsai
- Computational Structural Biology Section, Frederick National Laboratory for Cancer Research in the Laboratory of Cancer Immunometabolism, National Cancer Institute, Frederick, Maryland, USA
| | - Bengi Ruken Yavuz
- Department of Health Informatics, Graduate School of Informatics, Middle East Technical University, Ankara, Turkey
| | - Nurcan Tuncbag
- Department of Health Informatics, Graduate School of Informatics, Middle East Technical University, Ankara, Turkey.,Department of Chemical and Biological Engineering, College of Engineering, Koc University, Istanbul, Turkey.,Koc University Research Center for Translational Medicine, School of Medicine, Koc University, Istanbul, Turkey
| | - Hyunbum Jang
- Computational Structural Biology Section, Frederick National Laboratory for Cancer Research in the Laboratory of Cancer Immunometabolism, National Cancer Institute, Frederick, Maryland, USA
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68
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Dillon M, Lopez A, Lin E, Sales D, Perets R, Jain P. Progress on Ras/MAPK Signaling Research and Targeting in Blood and Solid Cancers. Cancers (Basel) 2021; 13:cancers13205059. [PMID: 34680208 PMCID: PMC8534156 DOI: 10.3390/cancers13205059] [Citation(s) in RCA: 32] [Impact Index Per Article: 10.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/11/2021] [Revised: 09/30/2021] [Accepted: 10/06/2021] [Indexed: 12/18/2022] Open
Abstract
Simple Summary The Ras-Raf-MEK-ERK signaling pathway is responsible for regulating cell proliferation, differentiation, and survival. Overexpression and overactivation of members within the signaling cascade have been observed in many solid and blood cancers. Research often focuses on targeting the pathway to disrupt cancer initiation and progression. We aimed to provide an overview of the pathway’s physiologic role and regulation, interactions with other pathways involved in cancer development, and mutations that lead to malignancy. Several blood and solid cancers are analyzed to illustrate the impact of the pathway’s dysregulation, stemming from mutation or viral induction. Finally, we summarized different approaches to targeting the pathway and the associated novel treatments being researched or having recently achieved approval. Abstract The mitogen-activated protein kinase (MAPK) pathway, consisting of the Ras-Raf-MEK-ERK signaling cascade, regulates genes that control cellular development, differentiation, proliferation, and apoptosis. Within the cascade, multiple isoforms of Ras and Raf each display differences in functionality, efficiency, and, critically, oncogenic potential. According to the NCI, over 30% of all human cancers are driven by Ras genes. This dysfunctional signaling is implicated in a wide variety of leukemias and solid tumors, both with and without viral etiology. Due to the strong evidence of Ras-Raf involvement in tumorigenesis, many have attempted to target the cascade to treat these malignancies. Decades of unsuccessful experimentation had deemed Ras undruggable, but recently, the approval of Sotorasib as the first ever KRas inhibitor represents a monumental breakthrough. This advancement is not without novel challenges. As a G12C mutant-specific drug, it also represents the issue of drug target specificity within Ras pathway; not only do many drugs only affect single mutational profiles, with few pan-inhibitor exceptions, tumor genetic heterogeneity may give rise to drug-resistant profiles. Furthermore, significant challenges in targeting downstream Raf, especially the BRaf isoform, lie in the paradoxical activation of wild-type BRaf by BRaf mutant inhibitors. This literature review will delineate the mechanisms of Ras signaling in the MAPK pathway and its possible oncogenic mutations, illustrate how specific mutations affect the pathogenesis of specific cancers, and compare available and in-development treatments targeting the Ras pathway.
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69
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Zhou Y, Hancock JF. Lipid Profiles of RAS Nanoclusters Regulate RAS Function. Biomolecules 2021; 11:biom11101439. [PMID: 34680072 PMCID: PMC8533076 DOI: 10.3390/biom11101439] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/23/2021] [Revised: 09/27/2021] [Accepted: 09/28/2021] [Indexed: 12/12/2022] Open
Abstract
The lipid-anchored RAS (Rat sarcoma) small GTPases (guanosine triphosphate hydrolases) are highly prevalent in human cancer. Traditional strategies of targeting the enzymatic activities of RAS have been shown to be difficult. Alternatively, RAS function and pathology are mostly restricted to nanoclusters on the plasma membrane (PM). Lipids are important structural components of these signaling platforms on the PM. However, how RAS nanoclusters selectively enrich distinct lipids in the PM, how different lipids contribute to RAS signaling and oncogenesis and whether the selective lipid sorting of RAS nanoclusters can be targeted have not been well-understood. Latest advances in quantitative super-resolution imaging and molecular dynamic simulations have allowed detailed characterization RAS/lipid interactions. In this review, we discuss the latest findings on the select lipid composition (with headgroup and acyl chain specificities) within RAS nanoclusters, the specific mechanisms for the select lipid sorting of RAS nanoclusters on the PM and how perturbing lipid compositions within RAS nanoclusters impacts RAS function and pathology. We also describe different strategies of manipulating lipid composition within RAS nanoclusters on the PM.
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70
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Coley AB, Ward A, Keeton AB, Chen X, Maxuitenko Y, Prakash A, Li F, Foote JB, Buchsbaum DJ, Piazza GA. Pan-RAS inhibitors: Hitting multiple RAS isozymes with one stone. Adv Cancer Res 2021; 153:131-168. [PMID: 35101229 DOI: 10.1016/bs.acr.2021.07.009] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 02/01/2023]
Abstract
Mutations in the three RAS oncogenes are present in approximately 30% of all human cancers that drive tumor growth and metastasis by aberrant activation of RAS-mediated signaling. Despite the well-established role of RAS in tumorigenesis, past efforts to develop small molecule inhibitors have failed for various reasons leading many to consider RAS as "undruggable." Advances over the past decade with KRAS(G12C) mutation-specific inhibitors have culminated in the first FDA-approved RAS drug, sotorasib. However, the patient population that stands to benefit from KRAS(G12C) inhibitors is inherently limited to those patients harboring KRAS(G12C) mutations. Additionally, both intrinsic and acquired mechanisms of resistance have been reported that indicate allele-specificity may afford disadvantages. For example, the compensatory activation of uninhibited wild-type (WT) NRAS and HRAS isozymes can rescue cancer cells harboring KRAS(G12C) mutations from allele-specific inhibition or the occurrence of other mutations in KRAS. It is therefore prudent to consider alternative drug discovery strategies that may overcome these potential limitations. One such approach is pan-RAS inhibition, whereby all RAS isozymes co-expressed in the tumor cell population are targeted by a single inhibitor to block constitutively activated RAS regardless of the underlying mutation. This chapter provides a review of past and ongoing strategies to develop pan-RAS inhibitors in detail and seeks to outline the trajectory of this promising strategy of RAS inhibition.
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Affiliation(s)
- Alexander B Coley
- Department of Pharmacology, University of South Alabama, Mobile, AL, United States; Mitchell Cancer Institute, Mobile, AL, United States
| | - Antonio Ward
- Department of Pharmacology, University of South Alabama, Mobile, AL, United States; Mitchell Cancer Institute, Mobile, AL, United States
| | - Adam B Keeton
- Department of Drug Discovery and Development, Harrison School of Pharmacy, Auburn University, Auburn, AL, United States
| | - Xi Chen
- Department of Drug Discovery and Development, Harrison School of Pharmacy, Auburn University, Auburn, AL, United States
| | - Yulia Maxuitenko
- Department of Drug Discovery and Development, Harrison School of Pharmacy, Auburn University, Auburn, AL, United States
| | - Aishwarya Prakash
- Mitchell Cancer Institute, Mobile, AL, United States; Department of Biochemistry & Molecular Biology, University of South Alabama, Mobile, AL, United States
| | - Feng Li
- Department of Drug Discovery and Development, Harrison School of Pharmacy, Auburn University, Auburn, AL, United States
| | - Jeremy B Foote
- Department of Microbiology, University of Alabama at Birmingham, Birmingham, AL, United States
| | - Donald J Buchsbaum
- Department of Radiation Oncology, University of Alabama at Birmingham, Birmingham, AL, United States
| | - Gary A Piazza
- Department of Drug Discovery and Development, Harrison School of Pharmacy, Auburn University, Auburn, AL, United States.
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71
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Vichas A, Riley AK, Nkinsi NT, Kamlapurkar S, Parrish PCR, Lo A, Duke F, Chen J, Fung I, Watson J, Rees M, Gabel AM, Thomas JD, Bradley RK, Lee JK, Hatch EM, Baine MK, Rekhtman N, Ladanyi M, Piccioni F, Berger AH. Integrative oncogene-dependency mapping identifies RIT1 vulnerabilities and synergies in lung cancer. Nat Commun 2021; 12:4789. [PMID: 34373451 PMCID: PMC8352964 DOI: 10.1038/s41467-021-24841-y] [Citation(s) in RCA: 16] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/15/2020] [Accepted: 07/12/2021] [Indexed: 12/13/2022] Open
Abstract
CRISPR-based cancer dependency maps are accelerating advances in cancer precision medicine, but adequate functional maps are limited to the most common oncogenes. To identify opportunities for therapeutic intervention in other rarer subsets of cancer, we investigate the oncogene-specific dependencies conferred by the lung cancer oncogene, RIT1. Here, genome-wide CRISPR screening in KRAS, EGFR, and RIT1-mutant isogenic lung cancer cells identifies shared and unique vulnerabilities of each oncogene. Combining this genetic data with small-molecule sensitivity profiling, we identify a unique vulnerability of RIT1-mutant cells to loss of spindle assembly checkpoint regulators. Oncogenic RIT1M90I weakens the spindle assembly checkpoint and perturbs mitotic timing, resulting in sensitivity to Aurora A inhibition. In addition, we observe synergy between mutant RIT1 and activation of YAP1 in multiple models and frequent nuclear overexpression of YAP1 in human primary RIT1-mutant lung tumors. These results provide a genome-wide atlas of oncogenic RIT1 functional interactions and identify components of the RAS pathway, spindle assembly checkpoint, and Hippo/YAP1 network as candidate therapeutic targets in RIT1-mutant lung cancer.
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Affiliation(s)
- Athea Vichas
- Human Biology Division, Fred Hutchinson Cancer Research Center, Seattle, WA, USA
| | - Amanda K Riley
- Human Biology Division, Fred Hutchinson Cancer Research Center, Seattle, WA, USA
- Molecular and Cellular Biology Program, University of Washington, Seattle, WA, USA
| | - Naomi T Nkinsi
- Human Biology Division, Fred Hutchinson Cancer Research Center, Seattle, WA, USA
| | - Shriya Kamlapurkar
- Human Biology Division, Fred Hutchinson Cancer Research Center, Seattle, WA, USA
| | - Phoebe C R Parrish
- Human Biology Division, Fred Hutchinson Cancer Research Center, Seattle, WA, USA
- Department of Genome Sciences, University of Washington, Seattle, WA, USA
| | - April Lo
- Human Biology Division, Fred Hutchinson Cancer Research Center, Seattle, WA, USA
- Department of Genome Sciences, University of Washington, Seattle, WA, USA
| | - Fujiko Duke
- Broad Institute of MIT & Harvard, Cambridge, MA, USA
| | - Jennifer Chen
- Broad Institute of MIT & Harvard, Cambridge, MA, USA
| | - Iris Fung
- Broad Institute of MIT & Harvard, Cambridge, MA, USA
| | | | - Matthew Rees
- Broad Institute of MIT & Harvard, Cambridge, MA, USA
| | - Austin M Gabel
- Department of Genome Sciences, University of Washington, Seattle, WA, USA
- Medical Scientist Training Program, University of Washington, Seattle, WA, USA
- Computational Biology Program, Public Health Sciences Division, Fred Hutchinson Cancer Research Center, Seattle, WA, USA
- Basic Sciences Division, Fred Hutchinson Cancer Research Center, Seattle, WA, USA
| | - James D Thomas
- Computational Biology Program, Public Health Sciences Division, Fred Hutchinson Cancer Research Center, Seattle, WA, USA
- Basic Sciences Division, Fred Hutchinson Cancer Research Center, Seattle, WA, USA
| | - Robert K Bradley
- Department of Genome Sciences, University of Washington, Seattle, WA, USA
- Computational Biology Program, Public Health Sciences Division, Fred Hutchinson Cancer Research Center, Seattle, WA, USA
- Basic Sciences Division, Fred Hutchinson Cancer Research Center, Seattle, WA, USA
| | - John K Lee
- Human Biology Division, Fred Hutchinson Cancer Research Center, Seattle, WA, USA
| | - Emily M Hatch
- Human Biology Division, Fred Hutchinson Cancer Research Center, Seattle, WA, USA
- Basic Sciences Division, Fred Hutchinson Cancer Research Center, Seattle, WA, USA
| | - Marina K Baine
- Department of Pathology, Memorial Sloan Kettering Cancer Center, New York, USA
| | - Natasha Rekhtman
- Department of Pathology, Memorial Sloan Kettering Cancer Center, New York, USA
| | - Marc Ladanyi
- Department of Pathology, Memorial Sloan Kettering Cancer Center, New York, USA
| | - Federica Piccioni
- Broad Institute of MIT & Harvard, Cambridge, MA, USA
- Merck Research Laboratories, Boston, MA, USA
| | - Alice H Berger
- Human Biology Division, Fred Hutchinson Cancer Research Center, Seattle, WA, USA.
- Department of Genome Sciences, University of Washington, Seattle, WA, USA.
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72
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Campbell SL, Philips MR. Post-translational modification of RAS proteins. Curr Opin Struct Biol 2021; 71:180-192. [PMID: 34365229 DOI: 10.1016/j.sbi.2021.06.015] [Citation(s) in RCA: 30] [Impact Index Per Article: 10.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/15/2021] [Accepted: 06/25/2021] [Indexed: 11/26/2022]
Abstract
Mutations of RAS genes drive cancer more frequently than any other oncogene. RAS proteins integrate signals from a wide array of receptors and initiate downstream signaling through pathways that control cellular growth. RAS proteins are fundamentally binary molecular switches in which the off/on state is determined by the binding of GDP or GTP, respectively. As such, the intrinsic and regulated nucleotide-binding and hydrolytic properties of the RAS GTPase were historically believed to account for the entirety of the regulation of RAS signaling. However, it is increasingly clear that RAS proteins are also regulated by a vast array of post-translational modifications (PTMs). The current challenge is to understand what are the functional consequences of these modifications and which are physiologically relevant. Because PTMs are catalyzed by enzymes that may offer targets for drug discovery, the study of RAS PTMs has been a high priority for RAS biologists.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Mark R Philips
- Perlmutter Cancer Center, NYU Grossman School of Medicine, USA
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73
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Remsberg JR, Suciu RM, Zambetti NA, Hanigan TW, Firestone AJ, Inguva A, Long A, Ngo N, Lum KM, Henry CL, Richardson SK, Predovic M, Huang B, Dix MM, Howell AR, Niphakis MJ, Shannon K, Cravatt BF. ABHD17 regulation of plasma membrane palmitoylation and N-Ras-dependent cancer growth. Nat Chem Biol 2021; 17:856-864. [PMID: 33927411 PMCID: PMC8900659 DOI: 10.1038/s41589-021-00785-8] [Citation(s) in RCA: 46] [Impact Index Per Article: 15.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/03/2020] [Revised: 03/02/2021] [Accepted: 03/10/2021] [Indexed: 12/12/2022]
Abstract
Multiple Ras proteins, including N-Ras, depend on a palmitoylation/depalmitoylation cycle to regulate their subcellular trafficking and oncogenicity. General lipase inhibitors such as Palmostatin M (Palm M) block N-Ras depalmitoylation, but lack specificity and target several enzymes displaying depalmitoylase activity. Here, we describe ABD957, a potent and selective covalent inhibitor of the ABHD17 family of depalmitoylases, and show that this compound impairs N-Ras depalmitoylation in human acute myeloid leukemia (AML) cells. ABD957 produced partial effects on N-Ras palmitoylation compared with Palm M, but was much more selective across the proteome, reflecting a plasma membrane-delineated action on dynamically palmitoylated proteins. Finally, ABD957 impaired N-Ras signaling and the growth of NRAS-mutant AML cells in a manner that synergizes with MAP kinase kinase (MEK) inhibition. Our findings uncover a surprisingly restricted role for ABHD17 enzymes as regulators of the N-Ras palmitoylation cycle and suggest that ABHD17 inhibitors may have value as targeted therapies for NRAS-mutant cancers.
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MESH Headings
- Cell Membrane/metabolism
- Cell Proliferation
- Cells, Cultured
- Humans
- Hydrolases/metabolism
- Leukemia, Myeloid, Acute/metabolism
- Leukemia, Myeloid, Acute/pathology
- Leukemia, Promyelocytic, Acute/metabolism
- Leukemia, Promyelocytic, Acute/pathology
- Lipoylation
- Microsomes, Liver/chemistry
- Microsomes, Liver/metabolism
- Molecular Structure
- ras Proteins/metabolism
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Affiliation(s)
- Jarrett R Remsberg
- Department of Chemistry, The Scripps Research Institute, La Jolla, CA, USA
| | - Radu M Suciu
- Department of Chemistry, The Scripps Research Institute, La Jolla, CA, USA
| | - Noemi A Zambetti
- Department of Pediatrics, University of California, San Francisco, San Francisco, CA, USA
- Helen Diller Family Comprehensive Cancer Center, University of California, San Francisco, San Francisco, CA, USA
| | - Thomas W Hanigan
- Department of Chemistry, The Scripps Research Institute, La Jolla, CA, USA
| | - Ari J Firestone
- Department of Pediatrics, University of California, San Francisco, San Francisco, CA, USA
- Helen Diller Family Comprehensive Cancer Center, University of California, San Francisco, San Francisco, CA, USA
| | - Anagha Inguva
- Department of Pediatrics, University of California, San Francisco, San Francisco, CA, USA
| | - Amanda Long
- Department of Pediatrics, University of California, San Francisco, San Francisco, CA, USA
| | - Nhi Ngo
- Lundbeck La Jolla Research Center, Inc., San Diego, CA, USA
| | - Kenneth M Lum
- Lundbeck La Jolla Research Center, Inc., San Diego, CA, USA
| | | | | | - Marina Predovic
- Department of Pediatrics, University of California, San Francisco, San Francisco, CA, USA
| | - Ben Huang
- Department of Pediatrics, University of California, San Francisco, San Francisco, CA, USA
- Helen Diller Family Comprehensive Cancer Center, University of California, San Francisco, San Francisco, CA, USA
| | - Melissa M Dix
- Department of Chemistry, The Scripps Research Institute, La Jolla, CA, USA
| | - Amy R Howell
- Department of Chemistry, University of Connecticut, Storrs, CT, USA
| | | | - Kevin Shannon
- Department of Pediatrics, University of California, San Francisco, San Francisco, CA, USA.
- Helen Diller Family Comprehensive Cancer Center, University of California, San Francisco, San Francisco, CA, USA.
| | - Benjamin F Cravatt
- Department of Chemistry, The Scripps Research Institute, La Jolla, CA, USA.
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74
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Kerk SA, Papagiannakopoulos T, Shah YM, Lyssiotis CA. Metabolic networks in mutant KRAS-driven tumours: tissue specificities and the microenvironment. Nat Rev Cancer 2021; 21:510-525. [PMID: 34244683 DOI: 10.1038/s41568-021-00375-9] [Citation(s) in RCA: 91] [Impact Index Per Article: 30.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 05/28/2021] [Indexed: 02/06/2023]
Abstract
Oncogenic mutations in KRAS drive common metabolic programmes that facilitate tumour survival, growth and immune evasion in colorectal carcinoma, non-small-cell lung cancer and pancreatic ductal adenocarcinoma. However, the impacts of mutant KRAS signalling on malignant cell programmes and tumour properties are also dictated by tumour suppressor losses and physiological features specific to the cell and tissue of origin. Here we review convergent and disparate metabolic networks regulated by oncogenic mutant KRAS in colon, lung and pancreas tumours, with an emphasis on co-occurring mutations and the role of the tumour microenvironment. Furthermore, we explore how these networks can be exploited for therapeutic gain.
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Affiliation(s)
- Samuel A Kerk
- Doctoral Program in Cancer Biology, University of Michigan Medical School, Ann Arbor, MI, USA
- Department of Molecular & Integrative Physiology, University of Michigan Medical School, Ann Arbor, MI, USA
| | - Thales Papagiannakopoulos
- Department of Pathology, New York University School of Medicine, New York, NY, USA
- Perlmutter Cancer Center, New York University School of Medicine, New York, NY, USA
| | - Yatrik M Shah
- Department of Molecular & Integrative Physiology, University of Michigan Medical School, Ann Arbor, MI, USA
- Division of Gastroenterology and Hepatology, Department of Internal Medicine, University of Michigan Medical School, Ann Arbor, MI, USA
- Rogel Cancer Center, University of Michigan Medical School, Ann Arbor, MI, USA
| | - Costas A Lyssiotis
- Department of Molecular & Integrative Physiology, University of Michigan Medical School, Ann Arbor, MI, USA.
- Division of Gastroenterology and Hepatology, Department of Internal Medicine, University of Michigan Medical School, Ann Arbor, MI, USA.
- Rogel Cancer Center, University of Michigan Medical School, Ann Arbor, MI, USA.
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75
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Abdelkarim H, Leschinsky N, Jang H, Banerjee A, Nussinov R, Gaponenko V. The dynamic nature of the K-Ras/calmodulin complex can be altered by oncogenic mutations. Curr Opin Struct Biol 2021; 71:164-170. [PMID: 34311289 DOI: 10.1016/j.sbi.2021.06.008] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/02/2021] [Revised: 06/03/2021] [Accepted: 06/17/2021] [Indexed: 12/13/2022]
Abstract
Oncogenic mutant K-Ras promotes cancer cell proliferation, migration, invasion, and survival by assembling signaling complexes. To date, the functional and structural roles of K-Ras mutations within these complexes are incompletely understood despite their mechanistic and therapeutic significance. Here, we review recent advances in understanding specific binding between K-Ras and the calcium sensor calmodulin. This interaction positively and negatively regulates diverse functions of K-Ras in cancer, suggesting flexibility in K-Ras/calmodulin complex formation. Also, structural data suggest that oncogenic K-Ras likely samples several conformational states, influencing its distinct assemblies with calmodulin and with other proteins. Understanding how K-Ras interacts with calmodulin and with other partners is essential to discovering novel inhibitors of K-Ras in cancer.
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Affiliation(s)
- Hazem Abdelkarim
- Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Genetics, University of Illinois at Chicago, Chicago, IL, 60607, USA
| | - Nicholas Leschinsky
- Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Genetics, University of Illinois at Chicago, Chicago, IL, 60607, USA
| | - Hyunbum Jang
- Computational Structural Biology Section, Frederick National Laboratory for Cancer Research in the Laboratory of Cancer Immunometabolism, National Cancer Institute, Frederick, MD, 21702, USA
| | - Avik Banerjee
- Center for Vaccines and Immunology, College of Veterinary Medicine, University of Georgia, Athens, GA, 30602, USA
| | - Ruth Nussinov
- Computational Structural Biology Section, Frederick National Laboratory for Cancer Research in the Laboratory of Cancer Immunometabolism, National Cancer Institute, Frederick, MD, 21702, USA; Department of Human Molecular Genetics and Biochemistry, Sackler School of Medicine, Tel Aviv University, Tel Aviv, 69978, Israel
| | - Vadim Gaponenko
- Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Genetics, University of Illinois at Chicago, Chicago, IL, 60607, USA.
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76
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Deng X, Ren P, Mai W, Fu T, Zhang H, Cai X, Wang L. Development of a Recycling Process for an Industrial-Scale Production of Tipifarnib. Org Process Res Dev 2021. [DOI: 10.1021/acs.oprd.1c00132] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/30/2022]
Affiliation(s)
- Xiaohu Deng
- Kura Oncology Inc., 12730 High Bluff Drive, Suite 400, San Diego, California 92130, United States
| | - Pingda Ren
- Kura Oncology Inc., 12730 High Bluff Drive, Suite 400, San Diego, California 92130, United States
| | - Wanping Mai
- Kura Oncology Inc., 12730 High Bluff Drive, Suite 400, San Diego, California 92130, United States
| | - Thomas Fu
- Kura Oncology Inc., 12730 High Bluff Drive, Suite 400, San Diego, California 92130, United States
| | - Hang Zhang
- STA Pharmaceutical Co., Ltd., (“WuXi STA”), a WuXi AppTec Company, 90 Delin Road, Waigaoqiao Pilot Free Trade Zone, Shanghai 200131, China
| | - Xianfeng Cai
- STA Pharmaceutical Co., Ltd., (“WuXi STA”), a WuXi AppTec Company, 90 Delin Road, Waigaoqiao Pilot Free Trade Zone, Shanghai 200131, China
| | - Lu Wang
- STA Pharmaceutical Co., Ltd., (“WuXi STA”), a WuXi AppTec Company, 90 Delin Road, Waigaoqiao Pilot Free Trade Zone, Shanghai 200131, China
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77
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Cai D, Liu Z, Lippincott-Schwartz J. Biomolecular Condensates and Their Links to Cancer Progression. Trends Biochem Sci 2021; 46:535-549. [PMID: 33579564 DOI: 10.1016/j.tibs.2021.01.002] [Citation(s) in RCA: 40] [Impact Index Per Article: 13.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/12/2020] [Revised: 01/04/2021] [Accepted: 01/08/2021] [Indexed: 01/14/2023]
Abstract
Liquid-liquid phase separation (LLPS) has emerged in recent years as an important physicochemical process for organizing diverse processes within cells via the formation of membraneless organelles termed biomolecular condensates. Emerging evidence now suggests that the formation and regulation of biomolecular condensates are also intricately linked to cancer formation and progression. We review the most recent literature linking the existence and/or dissolution of biomolecular condensates to different hallmarks of cancer formation and progression. We then discuss the opportunities that this condensate perspective provides for cancer research and the development of novel therapeutic approaches, including the perturbation of condensates by small-molecule inhibitors.
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Affiliation(s)
- Danfeng Cai
- Janelia Research Campus, Howard Hughes Medical Institute, Ashburn, VA 20147, USA
| | - Zhe Liu
- Janelia Research Campus, Howard Hughes Medical Institute, Ashburn, VA 20147, USA
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78
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Ras Diffusion and Interactions with the Plasma Membrane Measured by FRAP Variations. METHODS IN MOLECULAR BIOLOGY (CLIFTON, N.J.) 2021; 2262:185-197. [PMID: 33977477 DOI: 10.1007/978-1-0716-1190-6_10] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/21/2022]
Abstract
Ras proteins are non-integral membrane proteins, which bind to the plasma membrane by virtue of farnesylation and palmitoylation or a positively charged polybasic cluster at their C-terminus. Their membrane interactions and/or localization to membrane microdomains, which play important roles in signaling, are regulated by their lateral diffusion at the plasma membrane and their ability to exchange between the membrane and the cytoplasm (binding/unbinding kinetics). Here, using N-Ras as an example, we describe the use of variations of fluorescence recovery after photobleaching (FRAP) to measure the dynamics of the association of N-Ras with the plasma membrane of living cells and their dependence on several parameters (cholesterol, clustering of raft proteins, and palmitoylation/depalmitoylation).
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79
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Zhou Y, Gorfe AA, Hancock JF. RAS Nanoclusters Selectively Sort Distinct Lipid Headgroups and Acyl Chains. Front Mol Biosci 2021; 8:686338. [PMID: 34222339 PMCID: PMC8245699 DOI: 10.3389/fmolb.2021.686338] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/26/2021] [Accepted: 05/13/2021] [Indexed: 12/12/2022] Open
Abstract
RAS proteins are lipid-anchored small GTPases that switch between the GTP-bound active and GDP-bound inactive states. RAS isoforms, including HRAS, NRAS and splice variants KRAS4A and KRAS4B, are some of the most frequently mutated proteins in cancer. In particular, constitutively active mutants of KRAS comprise ∼80% of all RAS oncogenic mutations and are found in 98% of pancreatic, 45% of colorectal and 31% of lung tumors. Plasma membrane (PM) is the primary location of RAS signaling in biology and pathology. Thus, a better understanding of how RAS proteins localize to and distribute on the PM is critical to better comprehend RAS biology and to develop new strategies to treat RAS pathology. In this review, we discuss recent findings on how RAS proteins sort lipids as they undergo macromolecular assembly on the PM. We also discuss how RAS/lipid nanoclusters serve as signaling platforms for the efficient recruitment of effectors and signal transduction, and how perturbing the PM biophysical properties affect the spatial distribution of RAS isoforms and their functions.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yong Zhou
- Department of Integrative Biology and Pharmacology, University of Texas Health Science Center, Houston, TX, United States
| | - Alemayehu A. Gorfe
- Department of Integrative Biology and Pharmacology, University of Texas Health Science Center, Houston, TX, United States
| | - John F. Hancock
- Department of Integrative Biology and Pharmacology, University of Texas Health Science Center, Houston, TX, United States
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80
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Brandt AC, Koehn OJ, Williams CL. SmgGDS: An Emerging Master Regulator of Prenylation and Trafficking by Small GTPases in the Ras and Rho Families. Front Mol Biosci 2021; 8:685135. [PMID: 34222337 PMCID: PMC8242357 DOI: 10.3389/fmolb.2021.685135] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/24/2021] [Accepted: 05/27/2021] [Indexed: 11/17/2022] Open
Abstract
Newly synthesized small GTPases in the Ras and Rho families are prenylated by cytosolic prenyltransferases and then escorted by chaperones to membranes, the nucleus, and other sites where the GTPases participate in a variety of signaling cascades. Understanding how prenylation and trafficking are regulated will help define new therapeutic strategies for cancer and other disorders involving abnormal signaling by these small GTPases. A growing body of evidence indicates that splice variants of SmgGDS (gene name RAP1GDS1) are major regulators of the prenylation, post-prenylation processing, and trafficking of Ras and Rho family members. SmgGDS-607 binds pre-prenylated small GTPases, while SmgGDS-558 binds prenylated small GTPases. This review discusses the history of SmgGDS research and explains our current understanding of how SmgGDS splice variants regulate the prenylation and trafficking of small GTPases. We discuss recent evidence that mutant forms of RabL3 and Rab22a control the release of small GTPases from SmgGDS, and review the inhibitory actions of DiRas1, which competitively blocks the binding of other small GTPases to SmgGDS. We conclude with a discussion of current strategies for therapeutic targeting of SmgGDS in cancer involving splice-switching oligonucleotides and peptide inhibitors.
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Affiliation(s)
- Anthony C Brandt
- Department of Pharmacology and Toxicology, Medical College of Wisconsin, Milwaukee, WI, United States
| | - Olivia J Koehn
- Department of Pharmacology and Toxicology, Medical College of Wisconsin, Milwaukee, WI, United States
| | - Carol L Williams
- Department of Pharmacology and Toxicology, Medical College of Wisconsin, Milwaukee, WI, United States
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81
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Abstract
KRAS mutations are the most frequent gain-of-function alterations in patients with lung adenocarcinoma (LADC) in the Western world. Although they have been identified decades ago, prior efforts to target KRAS signaling with single-agent therapeutic approaches such as farnesyl transferase inhibitors, prenylation inhibition, impairment of KRAS downstream signaling, and synthetic lethality screens have been unsuccessful. Moreover, the role of KRAS oncogene in LADC is still not fully understood, and its prognostic and predictive impact with regards to the standard of care therapy remains controversial. Of note, KRAS-related studies that included general non-small cell lung cancer (NSCLC) population instead of LADC patients should be very carefully evaluated. Recently, however, comprehensive genomic profiling and wide-spectrum analysis of other co-occurring genetic alterations have identified unique therapeutic vulnerabilities. Novel targeted agents such as the covalent KRAS G12C inhibitors or the recently proposed combinatory approaches are some examples which may allow a tailored treatment for LADC patients harboring KRAS mutations. This review summarizes the current knowledge about the therapeutic approaches of KRAS-mutated LADC and provides an update on the most recent advances in KRAS-targeted anti-cancer strategies, with a focus on potential clinical implications.
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82
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Mlakar V, Morel E, Mlakar SJ, Ansari M, Gumy-Pause F. A review of the biological and clinical implications of RAS-MAPK pathway alterations in neuroblastoma. JOURNAL OF EXPERIMENTAL & CLINICAL CANCER RESEARCH : CR 2021; 40:189. [PMID: 34103089 PMCID: PMC8188681 DOI: 10.1186/s13046-021-01967-x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 15] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/06/2021] [Accepted: 04/27/2021] [Indexed: 02/07/2023]
Abstract
Neuroblastoma is the most common extra-cranial solid tumor in children, representing approximately 8% of all malignant childhood tumors and 15% of pediatric cancer-related deaths. Recent sequencing and transcriptomics studies have demonstrated the RAS-MAPK pathway’s contribution to the development and progression of neuroblastoma. This review compiles up-to-date evidence of this pathway’s involvement in neuroblastoma. We discuss the RAS-MAPK pathway’s general functioning, the clinical implications of its deregulation in neuroblastoma, and current promising therapeutics targeting proteins involved in signaling.
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Affiliation(s)
- Vid Mlakar
- CANSEARCH Research Platform for Pediatric Oncology and Hematology, Department of Pediatrics, Gynecology and Obstetrics, Faculty of Medicine, University of Geneva, Avenue de la Roseraie 64, 1205, Geneva, Switzerland
| | - Edouard Morel
- CANSEARCH Research Platform for Pediatric Oncology and Hematology, Department of Pediatrics, Gynecology and Obstetrics, Faculty of Medicine, University of Geneva, Avenue de la Roseraie 64, 1205, Geneva, Switzerland
| | - Simona Jurkovic Mlakar
- CANSEARCH Research Platform for Pediatric Oncology and Hematology, Department of Pediatrics, Gynecology and Obstetrics, Faculty of Medicine, University of Geneva, Avenue de la Roseraie 64, 1205, Geneva, Switzerland
| | - Marc Ansari
- CANSEARCH Research Platform for Pediatric Oncology and Hematology, Department of Pediatrics, Gynecology and Obstetrics, Faculty of Medicine, University of Geneva, Avenue de la Roseraie 64, 1205, Geneva, Switzerland.,Division of Pediatric Oncology and Hematology, Department of Women, Child and Adolescent, University Hospital of Geneva, Rue Willy-Donzé 6, 1205, Geneva, Switzerland
| | - Fabienne Gumy-Pause
- CANSEARCH Research Platform for Pediatric Oncology and Hematology, Department of Pediatrics, Gynecology and Obstetrics, Faculty of Medicine, University of Geneva, Avenue de la Roseraie 64, 1205, Geneva, Switzerland. .,Division of Pediatric Oncology and Hematology, Department of Women, Child and Adolescent, University Hospital of Geneva, Rue Willy-Donzé 6, 1205, Geneva, Switzerland.
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83
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Zhong L, Li Y, Xiong L, Wang W, Wu M, Yuan T, Yang W, Tian C, Miao Z, Wang T, Yang S. Small molecules in targeted cancer therapy: advances, challenges, and future perspectives. Signal Transduct Target Ther 2021; 6:201. [PMID: 34054126 PMCID: PMC8165101 DOI: 10.1038/s41392-021-00572-w] [Citation(s) in RCA: 570] [Impact Index Per Article: 190.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/05/2020] [Revised: 02/23/2021] [Accepted: 03/15/2021] [Indexed: 02/07/2023] Open
Abstract
Due to the advantages in efficacy and safety compared with traditional chemotherapy drugs, targeted therapeutic drugs have become mainstream cancer treatments. Since the first tyrosine kinase inhibitor imatinib was approved to enter the market by the US Food and Drug Administration (FDA) in 2001, an increasing number of small-molecule targeted drugs have been developed for the treatment of malignancies. By December 2020, 89 small-molecule targeted antitumor drugs have been approved by the US FDA and the National Medical Products Administration (NMPA) of China. Despite great progress, small-molecule targeted anti-cancer drugs still face many challenges, such as a low response rate and drug resistance. To better promote the development of targeted anti-cancer drugs, we conducted a comprehensive review of small-molecule targeted anti-cancer drugs according to the target classification. We present all the approved drugs as well as important drug candidates in clinical trials for each target, discuss the current challenges, and provide insights and perspectives for the research and development of anti-cancer drugs.
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Affiliation(s)
- Lei Zhong
- State Key Laboratory of Biotherapy and Cancer Center, West China Hospital, Sichuan University, Chengdu, Sichuan, People's Republic of China
- Personalized Drug Therapy Key Laboratory of Sichuan Province, Department of Pharmacy, Sichuan Provincial People's Hospital, School of Medicine, University of Electronic Science and Technology of China, Chengdu, Sichuan, People's Republic of China
| | - Yueshan Li
- State Key Laboratory of Biotherapy and Cancer Center, West China Hospital, Sichuan University, Chengdu, Sichuan, People's Republic of China
| | - Liang Xiong
- State Key Laboratory of Biotherapy and Cancer Center, West China Hospital, Sichuan University, Chengdu, Sichuan, People's Republic of China
| | - Wenjing Wang
- State Key Laboratory of Biotherapy and Cancer Center, West China Hospital, Sichuan University, Chengdu, Sichuan, People's Republic of China
| | - Ming Wu
- State Key Laboratory of Biotherapy and Cancer Center, West China Hospital, Sichuan University, Chengdu, Sichuan, People's Republic of China
| | - Ting Yuan
- Personalized Drug Therapy Key Laboratory of Sichuan Province, Department of Pharmacy, Sichuan Provincial People's Hospital, School of Medicine, University of Electronic Science and Technology of China, Chengdu, Sichuan, People's Republic of China
| | - Wei Yang
- State Key Laboratory of Biotherapy and Cancer Center, West China Hospital, Sichuan University, Chengdu, Sichuan, People's Republic of China
| | - Chenyu Tian
- State Key Laboratory of Biotherapy and Cancer Center, West China Hospital, Sichuan University, Chengdu, Sichuan, People's Republic of China
| | - Zhuang Miao
- State Key Laboratory of Biotherapy and Cancer Center, West China Hospital, Sichuan University, Chengdu, Sichuan, People's Republic of China
| | - Tianqi Wang
- State Key Laboratory of Biotherapy and Cancer Center, West China Hospital, Sichuan University, Chengdu, Sichuan, People's Republic of China
| | - Shengyong Yang
- State Key Laboratory of Biotherapy and Cancer Center, West China Hospital, Sichuan University, Chengdu, Sichuan, People's Republic of China.
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84
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Zhou N, Chi ZP, Li WJ, Zhao K, Wang SR, Wang QM, Tong L, He ZX, Han HY, Wang Y, Chen ZG. Effects of isoprenylcysteine carboxylmethyltransferase silencing on the migration and invasion of tongue squamous cell carcinoma. HUA XI KOU QIANG YI XUE ZA ZHI = HUAXI KOUQIANG YIXUE ZAZHI = WEST CHINA JOURNAL OF STOMATOLOGY 2021; 39:328-335. [PMID: 34041883 DOI: 10.7518/hxkq.2021.03.013] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/22/2022]
Abstract
OBJECTIVES The effect of isoprenylcysteine carboxymethyltransferase (ICMT) silencing on the migration and invasion of tongue squamous cell carcinoma was investigated by constructing the small interfering RNA (siRNA) of ICMT. METHODS Through liposomal transfection, siRNA was transfected into human tongue squamous cell carcinoma CAL-27 and SCC-4 cells (ICMT-siRNA group) with a negative control group (transfected with NC-siRNA) and a blank control group (transfected with a transfection reagent but not with siRNA). Quantitative real-time polymerase chain reaction was performed to analyze the mRNA expression of ICMT and RhoA in each group of cells after transfection and to measure the silencing efficiency. Western blot was applied to examine the expression levels of ICMT, total RhoA, membrane RhoA, ROCK1, matrix metalloproteinase (MMP)-2, and MMP-9 proteins in each group. The migration and invasion abilities were evaluated via wound healing and Transwell motility assays. RESULTS After CAL-27 and SCC-4 cells were transfected with ICMT-siRNA, the expression levels of ICMT genes and proteins decreased significantly in the experimental group compared with those in the negative and blank control groups (P<0.05). The mRNA and total protein expression levels of RhoA in the two groups were not significantly different (P>0.05). The expression levels of RhoA membrane protein, ROCK1, MMP-2, and MMP-9 decreased (P<0.05). The migration and invasion abilities were inhibited (P<0.05). CONCLUSIONS The migration and invasion abilities of CAL-27 and SCC-4 cells were reduced significantly after the transfection of ICMT-siRNA, and the involved mechanism might be related to the RhoA-ROCK signaling pathway.
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Affiliation(s)
- Nan Zhou
- College of Stomatology, Weifang Medical University, Weifang 261021, China
| | - Zeng-Peng Chi
- College of Stomatology, Weifang Medical University, Weifang 261021, China
| | - Wen-Jian Li
- School of Stomatology, Dalian Medical University, Dalian 116044, China
| | - Kai Zhao
- School of Stomatology, Qingdao University, Qingdao 266003, China
| | - Shao-Ru Wang
- School of Stomatology, Dalian Medical University, Dalian 116044, China
| | - Qi-Min Wang
- Dept. of Stomatology, Qingdao Municipal Hospital, Qingdao University, Qingdao 266071, China
| | - Lei Tong
- Dept. of Stomatology, Qingdao Municipal Hospital, Qingdao University, Qingdao 266071, China
| | - Zong-Xuan He
- Dept. of Oral and Maxillafacial Surgery, The Affiliated Hospital of Qingdao University, Qingdao 266005, China
| | - Hong-Yu Han
- Dept. of Stomatology, Qingdao Municipal Hospital, Qingdao University, Qingdao 266071, China
| | - Ying Wang
- Dept. of Stomatology, Fourth People's Hospital of Jinan, Jinan 250031, China
| | - Zheng-Gang Chen
- Dept. of Stomatology, Qingdao Municipal Hospital, Qingdao University, Qingdao 266071, China
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85
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Tulpule A, Guan J, Neel DS, Allegakoen HR, Lin YP, Brown D, Chou YT, Heslin A, Chatterjee N, Perati S, Menon S, Nguyen TA, Debnath J, Ramirez AD, Shi X, Yang B, Feng S, Makhija S, Huang B, Bivona TG. Kinase-mediated RAS signaling via membraneless cytoplasmic protein granules. Cell 2021; 184:2649-2664.e18. [PMID: 33848463 PMCID: PMC8127962 DOI: 10.1016/j.cell.2021.03.031] [Citation(s) in RCA: 93] [Impact Index Per Article: 31.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/07/2020] [Revised: 12/14/2020] [Accepted: 03/15/2021] [Indexed: 01/06/2023]
Abstract
Receptor tyrosine kinase (RTK)-mediated activation of downstream effector pathways such as the RAS GTPase/MAP kinase (MAPK) signaling cascade is thought to occur exclusively from lipid membrane compartments in mammalian cells. Here, we uncover a membraneless, protein granule-based subcellular structure that can organize RTK/RAS/MAPK signaling in cancer. Chimeric (fusion) oncoproteins involving certain RTKs including ALK and RET undergo de novo higher-order assembly into membraneless cytoplasmic protein granules that actively signal. These pathogenic biomolecular condensates locally concentrate the RAS activating complex GRB2/SOS1 and activate RAS in a lipid membrane-independent manner. RTK protein granule formation is critical for oncogenic RAS/MAPK signaling output in these cells. We identify a set of protein granule components and establish structural rules that define the formation of membraneless protein granules by RTK oncoproteins. Our findings reveal membraneless, higher-order cytoplasmic protein assembly as a distinct subcellular platform for organizing oncogenic RTK and RAS signaling.
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Affiliation(s)
- Asmin Tulpule
- Division of Pediatric Hematology/Oncology, UCSF, San Francisco, CA 94143, USA
| | - Juan Guan
- Department of Pharmaceutical Chemistry, UCSF, San Francisco, CA 94143, USA; Department of Physics, University of Florida, Gainesville, FL 32611, USA
| | - Dana S Neel
- Department of Medicine, Division of Hematology and Oncology, UCSF, San Francisco, CA 94143, USA
| | - Hannah R Allegakoen
- Division of Pediatric Hematology/Oncology, UCSF, San Francisco, CA 94143, USA
| | - Yone Phar Lin
- Division of Pediatric Hematology/Oncology, UCSF, San Francisco, CA 94143, USA
| | - David Brown
- Department of Pharmaceutical Chemistry, UCSF, San Francisco, CA 94143, USA
| | - Yu-Ting Chou
- Department of Medicine, Division of Hematology and Oncology, UCSF, San Francisco, CA 94143, USA
| | - Ann Heslin
- Division of Pediatric Hematology/Oncology, UCSF, San Francisco, CA 94143, USA
| | - Nilanjana Chatterjee
- Department of Medicine, Division of Hematology and Oncology, UCSF, San Francisco, CA 94143, USA
| | - Shriya Perati
- Division of Pediatric Hematology/Oncology, UCSF, San Francisco, CA 94143, USA
| | - Shruti Menon
- Division of Pediatric Hematology/Oncology, UCSF, San Francisco, CA 94143, USA
| | - Tan A Nguyen
- Department of Pathology and Helen Diller Family Comprehensive Cancer Center, UCSF, San Francisco, CA 94143, USA
| | - Jayanta Debnath
- Department of Pathology and Helen Diller Family Comprehensive Cancer Center, UCSF, San Francisco, CA 94143, USA
| | | | - Xiaoyu Shi
- Department of Pharmaceutical Chemistry, UCSF, San Francisco, CA 94143, USA
| | - Bin Yang
- Department of Pharmaceutical Chemistry, UCSF, San Francisco, CA 94143, USA
| | - Siyu Feng
- UC Berkeley-UCSF Graduate Program in Bioengineering, UCSF, San Francisco, CA 94143, USA
| | - Suraj Makhija
- Department of Pathology and Helen Diller Family Comprehensive Cancer Center, UCSF, San Francisco, CA 94143, USA
| | - Bo Huang
- Department of Pharmaceutical Chemistry, UCSF, San Francisco, CA 94143, USA; Department of Biochemistry and Biophysics, UCSF, San Francisco, CA 94143, USA; Chan Zuckerberg Biohub, San Francisco, CA 94158, USA.
| | - Trever G Bivona
- Department of Medicine, Division of Hematology and Oncology, UCSF, San Francisco, CA 94143, USA.
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86
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Xie M, Xu X, Fan Y. KRAS-Mutant Non-Small Cell Lung Cancer: An Emerging Promisingly Treatable Subgroup. Front Oncol 2021; 11:672612. [PMID: 34012925 PMCID: PMC8126715 DOI: 10.3389/fonc.2021.672612] [Citation(s) in RCA: 36] [Impact Index Per Article: 12.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/26/2021] [Accepted: 04/13/2021] [Indexed: 12/21/2022] Open
Abstract
Lung cancer, the leading cause of cancer-related deaths worldwide, can be classified into small cell lung cancer and non-small cell lung cancer (NSCLC). NSCLC is the most common histological type, accounting for 85% of all lung cancers. Kirsten rat sarcoma viral oncogene (KRAS) mutations, common in NSCLC, are associated with poor prognosis, likely due to poor responses to most systemic therapies and lack of targeted drugs. The latest published clinical trial data on new small-molecule KRAS G12C inhibitors, AMG510 and MRTX849, indicate that these molecules may potentially help treat KRAS-mutant NSCLC. Simultaneously, within the immuno-therapeutic process, immune efficacy has been observed in those patients who have KRAS mutations. In this article, the pathogenesis, treatment status, progress of immunotherapy, and targeted therapy of KRAS-mutant NSCLC are reviewed.
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Affiliation(s)
- Mingying Xie
- Department of Medical Oncology, The Second Clinical Medical College of Zhejiang Chinese Medical University, Hangzhou, China
| | - Xiaoling Xu
- Department of Medical Oncology, The Cancer Hospital of the University of Chinese Academy of Sciences (Zhejiang Cancer Hospital), Hangzhou, China.,Institute of Basic Medicine and Cancer (IBMC), Chinese Academy of Sciences, Hangzhou, China.,Department of Thoracic Medical Oncology, Zhejiang Cancer Hospital, Hangzhou, China
| | - Yun Fan
- Department of Medical Oncology, The Cancer Hospital of the University of Chinese Academy of Sciences (Zhejiang Cancer Hospital), Hangzhou, China.,Institute of Basic Medicine and Cancer (IBMC), Chinese Academy of Sciences, Hangzhou, China.,Department of Thoracic Medical Oncology, Zhejiang Cancer Hospital, Hangzhou, China
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87
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Sheffels E, Kortum RL. The Role of Wild-Type RAS in Oncogenic RAS Transformation. Genes (Basel) 2021; 12:genes12050662. [PMID: 33924994 PMCID: PMC8146411 DOI: 10.3390/genes12050662] [Citation(s) in RCA: 23] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/09/2021] [Revised: 04/23/2021] [Accepted: 04/27/2021] [Indexed: 02/06/2023] Open
Abstract
The RAS family of oncogenes (HRAS, NRAS, and KRAS) are among the most frequently mutated protein families in cancers. RAS-mutated tumors were originally thought to proliferate independently of upstream signaling inputs, but we now know that non-mutated wild-type (WT) RAS proteins play an important role in modulating downstream effector signaling and driving therapeutic resistance in RAS-mutated cancers. This modulation is complex as different WT RAS family members have opposing functions. The protein product of the WT RAS allele of the same isoform as mutated RAS is often tumor-suppressive and lost during tumor progression. In contrast, RTK-dependent activation of the WT RAS proteins from the two non-mutated WT RAS family members is tumor-promoting. Further, rebound activation of RTK–WT RAS signaling underlies therapeutic resistance to targeted therapeutics in RAS-mutated cancers. The contributions of WT RAS to proliferation and transformation in RAS-mutated cancer cells places renewed interest in upstream signaling molecules, including the phosphatase/adaptor SHP2 and the RasGEFs SOS1 and SOS2, as potential therapeutic targets in RAS-mutated cancers.
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88
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Pearson AT, Vokes EE. Is This the Dawn of Precision Oncology in Head and Neck Cancer? J Clin Oncol 2021; 39:1839-1841. [PMID: 33877869 DOI: 10.1200/jco.21.00569] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/20/2022] Open
Affiliation(s)
- Alexander T Pearson
- Section of Hematology/Oncology, Department of Medicine, The University of Chicago, Chicago, IL.,University of Chicago Comprehensive Cancer Center, Chicago, IL
| | - Everett E Vokes
- Section of Hematology/Oncology, Department of Medicine, The University of Chicago, Chicago, IL.,University of Chicago Comprehensive Cancer Center, Chicago, IL
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89
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Han CW, Jeong MS, Jang SB. Understand KRAS and the Quest for Anti-Cancer Drugs. Cells 2021; 10:cells10040842. [PMID: 33917906 PMCID: PMC8068306 DOI: 10.3390/cells10040842] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/11/2021] [Revised: 04/06/2021] [Accepted: 04/06/2021] [Indexed: 12/30/2022] Open
Abstract
The KRAS oncogene is mutated in approximately ~30% of human cancers, and the targeting of KRAS has long been highlighted in many studies. Nevertheless, attempts to target KRAS directly have been ineffective. This review provides an overview of the structure of KRAS and its characteristic signaling pathways. Additionally, we examine the problems associated with currently available KRAS inhibitors and discuss promising avenues for drug development.
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Affiliation(s)
- Chang Woo Han
- Institute of Systems Biology, Pusan National University, Jangjeon-dong, Geumjeong-gu, Busan 46241, Korea;
| | - Mi Suk Jeong
- Institute for Plastic Information and Energy Materials and Sustainable Utilization of Photovoltaic Energy Research Center, Pusan National University, Jangjeon-dong, Geumjeong-gu, Busan 46241, Korea
- Correspondence: (M.S.J.); (S.B.J.); Tel.: +82-51-510-2523 (M.S.J. & S.B.J.)
| | - Se Bok Jang
- Department of Molecular Biology, College of Natural Sciences, Pusan National University, Jangjeon-dong, Geumjeong-gu, Busan 46241, Korea
- Correspondence: (M.S.J.); (S.B.J.); Tel.: +82-51-510-2523 (M.S.J. & S.B.J.)
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90
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Shu L, Wang D, Saba NF, Chen ZG. A Historic Perspective and Overview of H-Ras Structure, Oncogenicity, and Targeting. Mol Cancer Ther 2021; 19:999-1007. [PMID: 32241873 DOI: 10.1158/1535-7163.mct-19-0660] [Citation(s) in RCA: 12] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/17/2019] [Revised: 12/02/2019] [Accepted: 01/14/2020] [Indexed: 12/24/2022]
Abstract
H-Ras is a unique isoform of the Ras GTPase family, one of the most prominently mutated oncogene families across the cancer landscape. Relative to other isoforms, though, mutations of H-Ras account for the smallest proportion of mutant Ras cancers. Yet, in recent years, there have been renewed efforts to study this isoform, especially as certain H-Ras-driven cancers, like those of the head and neck, have become more prominent. Important advances have therefore been made not only in the understanding of H-Ras structural biology but also in approaches designed to inhibit and impair its signaling activity. In this review, we outline historic and present initiatives to elucidate the mechanisms of H-Ras-dependent tumorigenesis as well as highlight ongoing developments in the quest to target this critical oncogene.
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Affiliation(s)
- Lihua Shu
- Department of Hematology and Medical Oncology, Winship Cancer Institute, Emory University School of Medicine, Atlanta, Georgia
| | - Dongsheng Wang
- Department of Hematology and Medical Oncology, Winship Cancer Institute, Emory University School of Medicine, Atlanta, Georgia
| | - Nabil F Saba
- Department of Hematology and Medical Oncology, Winship Cancer Institute, Emory University School of Medicine, Atlanta, Georgia.
| | - Zhuo G Chen
- Department of Hematology and Medical Oncology, Winship Cancer Institute, Emory University School of Medicine, Atlanta, Georgia.
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91
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Dai W, Xie S, Chen C, Choi BH. Ras sumoylation in cell signaling and transformation. Semin Cancer Biol 2021; 76:301-309. [PMID: 33812985 DOI: 10.1016/j.semcancer.2021.03.033] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/23/2020] [Revised: 02/13/2021] [Accepted: 03/28/2021] [Indexed: 02/06/2023]
Abstract
Ras proteins are small GTPases that participate in multiple signal cascades, regulating crucial cellular processes including cell survival, proliferation, and differentiation. Mutations or deregulated activities of Ras are frequently the driving force for oncogenic transformation and tumorigenesis. Posttranslational modifications play a crucial role in mediating the stability, activity, or subcellular localization/trafficking of numerous cellular regulators including Ras proteins. A series of recent studies reveal that Ras proteins are also regulated by sumoylation. All three Ras protein isoforms (HRas, KRas, and NRas) are modified by SUMO3. The conserved lysine42 appears to be the primary site for mediating sumoylation. Expression of KRasV12/R42 mutants compromised the activation of the Raf/MEK/ERK signaling axis, leading to a reduced rate of cell migration and invasion in vitro in multiple cell lines. Moreover, treatment of transformed pancreatic cells with a SUMO E2 inhibitor blocks cell migration in a concentration-dependent manner, which is associated with a reduced level of both KRas sumoylation and expression of mesenchymal cell markers. Furthermore, mouse xenograft experiments reveal that expression of a SUMO-resistant mutant appears to suppress tumor development in vivo. Combined, these studies indicate that sumoylation functions as an important mechanism in mediating the roles of Ras in cell proliferation, differentiation, and malignant transformation and that the SUMO-modification system of Ras oncoproteins can be explored as a new druggable target for various human malignancies.
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Affiliation(s)
- Wei Dai
- Department of Environmental Medicine, New York University Langone Medical Center, USA; Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Pharmacology, New York University Langone Medical Center, USA
| | - Suqing Xie
- Institute of Pathology, Kings County Hospital Center, Brooklyn, NY, USA
| | - Changyan Chen
- Center for Drug Discovery, Northeastern University, Boston, MA, USA
| | - Byeong Hyeok Choi
- Department of Environmental Medicine, New York University Langone Medical Center, USA.
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92
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Huang CC, Liu FR, Feng Q, Pan XY, Song SL, Yang JL. RGD4C peptide mediates anti-p21Ras scFv entry into tumor cells and produces an inhibitory effect on the human colon cancer cell line SW480. BMC Cancer 2021; 21:321. [PMID: 33765976 PMCID: PMC7993510 DOI: 10.1186/s12885-021-08056-4] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/14/2020] [Accepted: 03/17/2021] [Indexed: 01/12/2023] Open
Abstract
Background We prepared an anti-p21Ras scFv which could specifically bind with mutant and wild-type p21Ras. However, it cannot penetrate the cell membrane, which prevents it from binding to p21Ras in the cytoplasm. Here, the RGD4C peptide was used to mediate the scFv penetration into tumor cells and produce antitumor effects. Methods RGD4C-EGFP and RGD4C-p21Ras-scFv recombinant expression plasmids were constructed to express fusion proteins in E. coli, then the fusion proteins were purified with HisPur Ni-NTA. RGD4C-EGFP was used as reporter to test the factors affecting RGD4C penetration into tumor cell. The immunoreactivity of RGD4C-p21Ras-scFv toward p21Ras was identified by ELISA and western blotting. The ability of RGD4C-p21Ras-scFv to penetrate SW480 cells and colocalization with Ras protein was detected by immunocytochemistry and immunofluorescence. The antitumor activity of the RGD4C-p21Ras-scFv was assessed with the MTT, TUNEL, colony formation and cell migration assays. Chloroquine (CQ) was used an endosomal escape enhancing agent to enhance endosomal escape of RGD4C-scFv. Results RGD4C-p21Ras-scFv fusion protein were successfully expressed and purified. We found that the RGD4C fusion protein could penetrate into tumor cells, but the tumor cell entry of was time and concentration dependent. Endocytosis inhibitors and a low temperature inhibited RGD4C fusion protein endocytosis into cells. The change of the cell membrane potential did not affect penetrability. RGD4C-p21Ras-scFv could penetrate SW480 cells, effectively inhibit the growth, proliferation and migration of SW480 cells and promote this cells apoptosis. In addition, chloroquine (CQ) could increase endosomal escape and improve antitumor activity of RGD4C-scFv in SW480 cells. Conclusion The RGD4C peptide can mediate anti-p21Ras scFv entry into SW480 cells and produce an inhibitory effect, which indicates that RGD4C-p21Ras-scFv may be a potential therapeutic antibody for the treatment of ras-driven cancers.
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Affiliation(s)
- Chen-Chen Huang
- School of Medicine, Kunming University of Science and Technology, 727 South Jing Ming Road, Chenggong County, Kunming, 650500, Yunnan Province, China.,Department of Pathology, 920th Hospital of Joint Logistics Support Force of PLA, 212Daguan Rd, Xishan District, Kunming, 650032, Yunnan Province, China
| | - Fang-Rui Liu
- School of Medicine, Kunming University of Science and Technology, 727 South Jing Ming Road, Chenggong County, Kunming, 650500, Yunnan Province, China
| | - Qiang Feng
- Department of Pathology, 920th Hospital of Joint Logistics Support Force of PLA, 212Daguan Rd, Xishan District, Kunming, 650032, Yunnan Province, China
| | - Xin-Yan Pan
- Department of Pathology, 920th Hospital of Joint Logistics Support Force of PLA, 212Daguan Rd, Xishan District, Kunming, 650032, Yunnan Province, China
| | - Shu-Ling Song
- Department of Pathology, 920th Hospital of Joint Logistics Support Force of PLA, 212Daguan Rd, Xishan District, Kunming, 650032, Yunnan Province, China
| | - Ju-Lun Yang
- School of Medicine, Kunming University of Science and Technology, 727 South Jing Ming Road, Chenggong County, Kunming, 650500, Yunnan Province, China. .,Department of Pathology, 920th Hospital of Joint Logistics Support Force of PLA, 212Daguan Rd, Xishan District, Kunming, 650032, Yunnan Province, China.
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93
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Wang P, van der Hoeven D, Ye N, Chen H, Liu Z, Ma X, Montufar-Solis D, Rehl KM, Cho KJ, Thapa S, Chen W, van der Hoeven R, Frost JA, Hancock JF, Zhou J. Scaffold repurposing of fendiline: Identification of potent KRAS plasma membrane localization inhibitors. Eur J Med Chem 2021; 217:113381. [PMID: 33756124 DOI: 10.1016/j.ejmech.2021.113381] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/08/2020] [Revised: 03/04/2021] [Accepted: 03/08/2021] [Indexed: 02/07/2023]
Abstract
KRAS plays an essential role in regulating cell proliferation, differentiation, migration and survival. Mutated KRAS is a major driver of malignant transformation in multiple human cancers. We showed previously that fendiline (6) is an effective inhibitor of KRAS plasma membrane (PM) localization and function. In this study, we designed, synthesized and evaluated a series of new fendiline analogs to optimize its drug properties. Systemic structure-activity relationship studies by scaffold repurposing led to the discovery of several more active KRAS PM localization inhibitors such as compounds 12f (NY0244), 12h (NY0331) and 22 (NY0335) which exhibit nanomolar potencies. These compounds inhibited oncogenic KRAS-driven cancer cell proliferation at single-digit micromolar concentrations in vitro. In vivo studies in a xenograft model of pancreatic cancer revealed that 12h and 22 suppressed oncogenic KRAS-expressing MiaPaCa-2 tumor growth at a low dose range of 1-5 mg/kg with no vasodilatory effects, indicating their potential as chemical probes and anticancer therapeutics.
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Affiliation(s)
- Pingyuan Wang
- Chemical Biology Program, Department of Pharmacology and Toxicology, University of Texas Medical Branch, Galveston, TX, 77555, USA
| | - Dharini van der Hoeven
- Department of Diagnostic and Biomedical Sciences, School of Dentistry, The University of Texas Health Science Center at Houston, Houston, TX, 77054, USA
| | - Na Ye
- Chemical Biology Program, Department of Pharmacology and Toxicology, University of Texas Medical Branch, Galveston, TX, 77555, USA
| | - Haiying Chen
- Chemical Biology Program, Department of Pharmacology and Toxicology, University of Texas Medical Branch, Galveston, TX, 77555, USA
| | - Zhiqing Liu
- Chemical Biology Program, Department of Pharmacology and Toxicology, University of Texas Medical Branch, Galveston, TX, 77555, USA
| | - Xiaoping Ma
- Department of Integrative Biology and Pharmacology, McGovern Medical School, The University of Texas Health Science Center at Houston, Houston, TX, 77030, USA
| | - Dina Montufar-Solis
- Department of Integrative Biology and Pharmacology, McGovern Medical School, The University of Texas Health Science Center at Houston, Houston, TX, 77030, USA
| | - Kristen M Rehl
- Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, Boonshoft School of Medicine, Wright State University, Dayton, OH, 45435, USA
| | - Kwang-Jin Cho
- Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, Boonshoft School of Medicine, Wright State University, Dayton, OH, 45435, USA
| | - Sabita Thapa
- Department of Diagnostic and Biomedical Sciences, School of Dentistry, The University of Texas Health Science Center at Houston, Houston, TX, 77054, USA
| | - Wei Chen
- Department of Integrative Biology and Pharmacology, McGovern Medical School, The University of Texas Health Science Center at Houston, Houston, TX, 77030, USA
| | - Ransome van der Hoeven
- Department of Diagnostic and Biomedical Sciences, School of Dentistry, The University of Texas Health Science Center at Houston, Houston, TX, 77054, USA
| | - Jeffrey A Frost
- Department of Integrative Biology and Pharmacology, McGovern Medical School, The University of Texas Health Science Center at Houston, Houston, TX, 77030, USA
| | - John F Hancock
- Department of Integrative Biology and Pharmacology, McGovern Medical School, The University of Texas Health Science Center at Houston, Houston, TX, 77030, USA.
| | - Jia Zhou
- Chemical Biology Program, Department of Pharmacology and Toxicology, University of Texas Medical Branch, Galveston, TX, 77555, USA.
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Ravera M, Gabano E, Zanellato I, Rangone B, Perin E, Ferrari B, Bottone MG, Osella D. Cis,cis,trans-[Pt IVCl 2(NH 3) 2(perillato) 2], a dual-action prodrug with excellent cytotoxic and antimetastatic activity. Dalton Trans 2021; 50:3161-3177. [PMID: 33595015 DOI: 10.1039/d0dt04051g] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/05/2023]
Abstract
Two Pt(iv) conjugates containing one or two molecules of perillic acid (4-isopropenylcyclohexene-1-carboxylic acid), an active metabolite of limonene, were synthesized both with traditional and microwave-assisted methods and characterized. Their antiproliferative activity was tested on a panel of human tumor cell lines. In particular, cis,cis,trans-[PtIVCl2(NH3)2(perillato)2] exhibited excellent antiproliferative and antimetastatic activity on A-549 lung tumor cells at nanomolar concentrations. A number of in vitro biological tests were performed to decipher some aspects of its mechanism of action, including transwell migration and invasion as well as wound healing assay.
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Affiliation(s)
- Mauro Ravera
- Dipartimento di Scienze e Innovazione Tecnologica, Università del Piemonte Orientale, Viale Michel 11, 15121 Alessandria, Italy.
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95
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Van QN, Prakash P, Shrestha R, Balius TE, Turbyville TJ, Stephen AG. RAS Nanoclusters: Dynamic Signaling Platforms Amenable to Therapeutic Intervention. Biomolecules 2021; 11:377. [PMID: 33802474 PMCID: PMC8000715 DOI: 10.3390/biom11030377] [Citation(s) in RCA: 16] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/06/2021] [Revised: 02/24/2021] [Accepted: 02/24/2021] [Indexed: 01/18/2023] Open
Abstract
RAS proteins are mutated in approximately 20% of all cancers and are generally associated with poor clinical outcomes. RAS proteins are localized to the plasma membrane and function as molecular switches, turned on by partners that receive extracellular mitogenic signals. In the on-state, they activate intracellular signal transduction cascades. Membrane-bound RAS molecules segregate into multimers, known as nanoclusters. These nanoclusters, held together through weak protein-protein and protein-lipid associations, are highly dynamic and respond to cellular input signals and fluctuations in the local lipid environment. Disruption of RAS nanoclusters results in downregulation of RAS-mediated mitogenic signaling. In this review, we discuss the propensity of RAS proteins to display clustering behavior and the interfaces that are associated with these assemblies. Strategies to therapeutically disrupt nanocluster formation or the stabilization of signaling incompetent RAS complexes are discussed.
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Affiliation(s)
| | | | | | | | | | - Andrew G. Stephen
- Cancer Research Technology Program, Frederick National Laboratory for Cancer Research, Leidos Biomedical Research, National Cancer Institute RAS Initiative, Inc., Frederick, MD 21702, USA; (Q.N.V.); (P.P.); (R.S.); (T.E.B.); (T.J.T.)
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96
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Scratching the surface: native mass spectrometry of peripheral membrane protein complexes. Biochem Soc Trans 2021; 48:547-558. [PMID: 32129823 PMCID: PMC7192793 DOI: 10.1042/bst20190787] [Citation(s) in RCA: 19] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/03/2020] [Revised: 02/09/2020] [Accepted: 02/11/2020] [Indexed: 02/06/2023]
Abstract
A growing number of integral membrane proteins have been shown to tune their activity by selectively interacting with specific lipids. The ability to regulate biological functions via lipid interactions extends to the diverse group of proteins that associate only peripherally with the lipid bilayer. However, the structural basis of these interactions remains challenging to study due to their transient and promiscuous nature. Recently, native mass spectrometry has come into focus as a new tool to investigate lipid interactions in membrane proteins. Here, we outline how the native MS strategies developed for integral membrane proteins can be applied to generate insights into the structure and function of peripheral membrane proteins. Specifically, native MS studies of proteins in complex with detergent-solubilized lipids, bound to lipid nanodiscs, and released from native-like lipid vesicles all shed new light on the role of lipid interactions. The unique ability of native MS to capture and interrogate protein–protein, protein–ligand, and protein–lipid interactions opens exciting new avenues for the study of peripheral membrane protein biology.
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97
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Nussinov R, Jang H, Gursoy A, Keskin O, Gaponenko V. Inhibition of Nonfunctional Ras. Cell Chem Biol 2021; 28:121-133. [PMID: 33440168 PMCID: PMC7897307 DOI: 10.1016/j.chembiol.2020.12.012] [Citation(s) in RCA: 22] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/31/2020] [Revised: 10/28/2020] [Accepted: 12/21/2020] [Indexed: 02/07/2023]
Abstract
Intuitively, functional states should be targeted; not nonfunctional ones. So why could drugging the inactive K-Ras4BG12Cwork-but drugging the inactive kinase will likely not? The reason is the distinct oncogenic mechanisms. Kinase driver mutations work by stabilizing the active state and/or destabilizing the inactive state. Either way, oncogenic kinases are mostly in the active state. Ras driver mutations work by quelling its deactivation mechanisms, GTP hydrolysis, and nucleotide exchange. Covalent inhibitors that bind to the inactive GDP-bound K-Ras4BG12C conformation can thus work. By contrast, in kinases, allosteric inhibitors work by altering the active-site conformation to favor orthosteric drugs. From the translational standpoint this distinction is vital: it expedites effective pharmaceutical development and extends the drug classification based on the mechanism of action. Collectively, here we postulate that drug action relates to blocking the mechanism of activation, not to whether the protein is in the active or inactive state.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ruth Nussinov
- Computational Structural Biology Section, Frederick National Laboratory for Cancer Research in the Laboratory of Cancer Immunometabolism, National Cancer Institute, Frederick, MD 21702, USA; Department of Human Molecular Genetics and Biochemistry, Sackler School of Medicine, Tel Aviv University, Tel Aviv 69978, Israel.
| | - Hyunbum Jang
- Computational Structural Biology Section, Frederick National Laboratory for Cancer Research in the Laboratory of Cancer Immunometabolism, National Cancer Institute, Frederick, MD 21702, USA
| | - Attila Gursoy
- Department of Computer Engineering, Koc University, Istanbul 34450, Turkey
| | - Ozlem Keskin
- Department of Chemical and Biological Engineering, Koc University, Istanbul 34450, Turkey
| | - Vadim Gaponenko
- Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Genetics, University of Illinois at Chicago, Chicago, IL 60607, USA.
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98
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Zhou Y, Prakash PS, Liang H, Gorfe AA, Hancock JF. The KRAS and other prenylated polybasic domain membrane anchors recognize phosphatidylserine acyl chain structure. Proc Natl Acad Sci U S A 2021; 118:e2014605118. [PMID: 33526670 PMCID: PMC8017956 DOI: 10.1073/pnas.2014605118] [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] [Indexed: 02/07/2023] Open
Abstract
KRAS interacts with the inner leaflet of the plasma membrane (PM) using a hybrid anchor that comprises a lysine-rich polybasic domain (PBD) and a C-terminal farnesyl chain. Electrostatic interactions have been envisaged as the primary determinant of interactions between KRAS and membranes. Here, we integrated molecular dynamics (MD) simulations and superresolution spatial analysis in mammalian cells and systematically compared four equally charged KRAS anchors: the wild-type farnesyl hexa-lysine and engineered mutants comprising farnesyl hexa-arginine, geranylgeranyl hexa-lysine, and geranylgeranyl hexa-arginine. MD simulations show that these equally charged KRAS mutant anchors exhibit distinct interactions and packing patterns with different phosphatidylserine (PtdSer) species, indicating that prenylated PBD-bilayer interactions extend beyond electrostatics. Similar observations were apparent in intact cells, where each anchor exhibited binding specificities for PtdSer species with distinct acyl chain compositions. Acyl chain composition determined responsiveness of the spatial organization of different PtdSer species to diverse PM perturbations, including transmembrane potential, cholesterol depletion, and PM curvature. In consequence, the spatial organization and PM binding of each KRAS anchor precisely reflected the behavior of its preferred PtdSer ligand to these same PM perturbations. Taken together these results show that small GTPase PBD-prenyl anchors, such as that of KRAS, have the capacity to encode binding specificity for specific acyl chains as well as lipid headgroups, which allow differential responses to biophysical perturbations that may have biological and signaling consequences for the anchored GTPase.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yong Zhou
- Department of Integrative Biology and Pharmacology, McGovern Medical School, University of Texas Health Science Center, Houston, TX 77030
- Graduate School of Biological Sciences, MD Anderson Cancer Center and University of Texas Health Science Center, Houston, TX 77030
| | - Priyanka S Prakash
- Department of Integrative Biology and Pharmacology, McGovern Medical School, University of Texas Health Science Center, Houston, TX 77030
| | - Hong Liang
- Department of Integrative Biology and Pharmacology, McGovern Medical School, University of Texas Health Science Center, Houston, TX 77030
| | - Alemayehu A Gorfe
- Department of Integrative Biology and Pharmacology, McGovern Medical School, University of Texas Health Science Center, Houston, TX 77030
- Graduate School of Biological Sciences, MD Anderson Cancer Center and University of Texas Health Science Center, Houston, TX 77030
| | - John F Hancock
- Department of Integrative Biology and Pharmacology, McGovern Medical School, University of Texas Health Science Center, Houston, TX 77030;
- Graduate School of Biological Sciences, MD Anderson Cancer Center and University of Texas Health Science Center, Houston, TX 77030
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99
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Hu W, Liu Z, Salato V, North PE, Bischoff J, Kumar SN, Fang Z, Rajan S, Hussain MM, Miao QR. NOGOB receptor-mediated RAS signaling pathway is a target for suppressing proliferating hemangioma. JCI Insight 2021; 6:142299. [PMID: 33400686 PMCID: PMC7934876 DOI: 10.1172/jci.insight.142299] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/20/2020] [Accepted: 12/23/2020] [Indexed: 12/30/2022] Open
Abstract
Infantile hemangioma is a vascular tumor characterized by the rapid growth of disorganized blood vessels followed by slow spontaneous involution. The underlying molecular mechanisms that regulate hemangioma proliferation and involution still are not well elucidated. Our previous studies reported that NOGOB receptor (NGBR), a transmembrane protein, is required for the translocation of prenylated RAS from the cytosol to the plasma membrane and promotes RAS activation. Here, we show that NGBR was highly expressed in the proliferating phase of infantile hemangioma, but its expression decreased in the involuting phase, suggesting that NGBR may have been involved in regulating the growth of proliferating hemangioma. Moreover, we demonstrate that NGBR knockdown in hemangioma stem cells (HemSCs) attenuated growth factor-stimulated RAS activation and diminished the migration and proliferation of HemSCs, which is consistent with the effects of RAS knockdown in HemSCs. In vivo differentiation assay further shows that NGBR knockdown inhibited blood vessel formation and adipocyte differentiation of HemSCs in immunodeficient mice. Our data suggest that NGBR served as a RAS modulator in controlling the growth and differentiation of HemSCs.
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Affiliation(s)
- Wenquan Hu
- Department of Foundations of Medicine, New York University Long Island School of Medicine, Mineola, New York, USA.,Division of Pediatric Surgery, Department of Surgery, and.,Division of Pediatric Pathology, Department of Pathology, Children's Research Institute, Medical College of Wisconsin, Milwaukee, Wisconsin, USA
| | - Zhong Liu
- Division of Pediatric Surgery, Department of Surgery, and.,Division of Pediatric Pathology, Department of Pathology, Children's Research Institute, Medical College of Wisconsin, Milwaukee, Wisconsin, USA
| | - Valerie Salato
- Division of Pediatric Pathology, Department of Pathology, Children's Research Institute, Medical College of Wisconsin, Milwaukee, Wisconsin, USA
| | - Paula E North
- Division of Pediatric Pathology, Department of Pathology, Children's Research Institute, Medical College of Wisconsin, Milwaukee, Wisconsin, USA
| | - Joyce Bischoff
- Vascular Biology Program and Department of Surgery, Children's Hospital Boston, Harvard Medical School, Boston, Massachusetts, USA
| | - Suresh N Kumar
- Division of Pediatric Pathology, Department of Pathology, Children's Research Institute, Medical College of Wisconsin, Milwaukee, Wisconsin, USA
| | - Zhi Fang
- Department of Foundations of Medicine, New York University Long Island School of Medicine, Mineola, New York, USA.,Division of Pediatric Surgery, Department of Surgery, and.,Division of Pediatric Pathology, Department of Pathology, Children's Research Institute, Medical College of Wisconsin, Milwaukee, Wisconsin, USA
| | - Sujith Rajan
- Department of Foundations of Medicine, New York University Long Island School of Medicine, Mineola, New York, USA
| | - M Mahmood Hussain
- Department of Foundations of Medicine, New York University Long Island School of Medicine, Mineola, New York, USA
| | - Qing R Miao
- Department of Foundations of Medicine, New York University Long Island School of Medicine, Mineola, New York, USA.,Division of Pediatric Surgery, Department of Surgery, and.,Division of Pediatric Pathology, Department of Pathology, Children's Research Institute, Medical College of Wisconsin, Milwaukee, Wisconsin, USA
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100
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Salgia R, Pharaon R, Mambetsariev I, Nam A, Sattler M. The improbable targeted therapy: KRAS as an emerging target in non-small cell lung cancer (NSCLC). Cell Rep Med 2021; 2:100186. [PMID: 33521700 PMCID: PMC7817862 DOI: 10.1016/j.xcrm.2020.100186] [Citation(s) in RCA: 75] [Impact Index Per Article: 25.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/18/2022]
Abstract
KRAS is a frequent oncogenic driver in solid tumors, including non-small cell lung cancer (NSCLC). It was previously thought to be an "undruggable" target due to the lack of deep binding pockets for specific small-molecule inhibitors. A better understanding of the mechanisms that drive KRAS transformation, improved KRAS-targeted drugs, and immunological approaches that aim at yielding immune responses against KRAS neoantigens have sparked a race for approved therapies. Few treatments are available for KRAS mutant NSCLC patients, and several approaches are being tested in clinicals trials to fill this void. Here, we review promising therapeutics tested for KRAS mutant NSCLC.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ravi Salgia
- Department of Medical Oncology and Therapeutics Research, City of Hope National Medical Center, Duarte, CA 91010, USA
| | - Rebecca Pharaon
- Department of Medical Oncology and Therapeutics Research, City of Hope National Medical Center, Duarte, CA 91010, USA
| | - Isa Mambetsariev
- Department of Medical Oncology and Therapeutics Research, City of Hope National Medical Center, Duarte, CA 91010, USA
| | - Arin Nam
- Department of Medical Oncology and Therapeutics Research, City of Hope National Medical Center, Duarte, CA 91010, USA
| | - Martin Sattler
- Department of Medical Oncology, Dana-Farber Cancer Institute, Boston, MA 02215, USA
- Department of Surgery, Brigham and Women’s Hospital, Boston, MA 02115, USA
- Department of Medicine, Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA 02115, USA
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