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Emerging connectivity of programmed cell death pathways and its physiological implications. Nat Rev Mol Cell Biol 2020; 21:678-695. [PMID: 32873928 DOI: 10.1038/s41580-020-0270-8] [Citation(s) in RCA: 461] [Impact Index Per Article: 115.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 07/03/2020] [Indexed: 12/17/2022]
Abstract
The removal of functionally dispensable, infected or potentially neoplastic cells is driven by programmed cell death (PCD) pathways, highlighting their important roles in homeostasis, host defence against pathogens, cancer and a range of other pathologies. Several types of PCD pathways have been described, including apoptosis, necroptosis and pyroptosis; they employ distinct molecular and cellular processes and differ in their outcomes, such as the capacity to trigger inflammatory responses. Recent genetic and biochemical studies have revealed remarkable flexibility in the use of these PCD pathways and indicate a considerable degree of plasticity in their molecular regulation; for example, despite having a primary role in inducing pyroptosis, inflammatory caspases can also induce apoptosis, and conversely, apoptotic stimuli can trigger pyroptosis. Intriguingly, this flexibility is most pronounced in cellular responses to infection, while apoptosis is the dominant cell death process through which organisms prevent the development of cancer. In this Review, we summarize the mechanisms of the different types of PCD and describe the physiological and pathological processes that engage crosstalk between these pathways, focusing on infections and cancer. We discuss the intriguing notion that the different types of PCD could be seen as a single, coordinated cell death system, in which the individual pathways are highly interconnected and can flexibly compensate for one another.
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52
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Lu X, Liu YC, Orvig C, Liang H, Chen ZF. Discovery of a Copper-Based Mcl-1 Inhibitor as an Effective Antitumor Agent. J Med Chem 2020; 63:9154-9167. [PMID: 32794745 DOI: 10.1021/acs.jmedchem.9b02047] [Citation(s) in RCA: 23] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/25/2022]
Abstract
Myeloid cell leukemia 1 (Mcl-1), which belongs to the Bcl-2 family of prosurvival proteins, is a key regulator of cancer cell survival. To date, few drug-like Mcl-1 inhibitors have been reported. Herein, we report the preparation of 10 copper complexes with 9-substituted β-carboline ligands that act as metal-based Mcl-1 inhibitors. Complex 14 was identified as a potent and selective Mcl-1 inhibitor with strong in vitro antitumor activity. Mechanistic studies demonstrated that complex 14 disrupted Mcl-1-Bax/Bak heterodimerization and induced Bax/Bak-dependent apoptosis. In addition, complex 14 significantly (P < 0.001) inhibited tumor growth in vivo, induced tumor necrosis, and extended survival time in an NCI-H460 xenograft model. Furthermore, complex 14 showed no apparent toxicity in mice. Together, these findings indicate that complex 14 is a copper-based Mcl-1 inhibitor with high efficacy and low toxicity that could be developed for the treatment of Mcl-1-related cancers.
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Affiliation(s)
- Xing Lu
- State Key Laboratory for Chemistry and Molecular Engineering of Medicinal Resources, School of Chemistry and Pharmacy, Guangxi Normal University, Guilin 541004, P. R. China
| | - Yan-Cheng Liu
- State Key Laboratory for Chemistry and Molecular Engineering of Medicinal Resources, School of Chemistry and Pharmacy, Guangxi Normal University, Guilin 541004, P. R. China
| | - Chris Orvig
- Department of Chemistry, Faculty of Science, University of British Columbia, 2036 Main Mall, Vancouver, British Columbia V6T1Z1, Canada
| | - Hong Liang
- State Key Laboratory for Chemistry and Molecular Engineering of Medicinal Resources, School of Chemistry and Pharmacy, Guangxi Normal University, Guilin 541004, P. R. China
| | - Zhen-Feng Chen
- State Key Laboratory for Chemistry and Molecular Engineering of Medicinal Resources, School of Chemistry and Pharmacy, Guangxi Normal University, Guilin 541004, P. R. China
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53
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Cosialls AM, Sánchez-Vera I, Pomares H, Perramon-Andújar J, Sanchez-Esteban S, Palmeri CM, Iglesias-Serret D, Saura-Esteller J, Núñez-Vázquez S, Lavilla R, González-Barca EM, Pons G, Gil J. The BCL-2 family members NOXA and BIM mediate fluorizoline-induced apoptosis in multiple myeloma cells. Biochem Pharmacol 2020; 180:114198. [PMID: 32798467 DOI: 10.1016/j.bcp.2020.114198] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/14/2020] [Revised: 08/10/2020] [Accepted: 08/11/2020] [Indexed: 12/14/2022]
Abstract
Fluorizoline is a new synthetic molecule that induces apoptosis by selectively targeting prohibitins. In this study, we have assessed the pro-apoptotic effect of fluorizoline in 3 different multiple myeloma cell lines and 12 primary samples obtained from treatment-naïve multiple myeloma patients. Fluorizoline induced apoptosis in both multiple myeloma cell lines and primary samples at concentrations in the low micromolar range. All primary samples were sensitive to fluorizoline. Moreover, fluorizoline increased the mRNA and protein levels of the pro-apoptotic BCL-2 family member NOXA both in cell lines and primary samples analyzed. Finally, NOXA-depletion by CRISPR/Cas9 in cells that do not express BIM conferred resistance to fluorizoline-induced apoptosis in multiple myeloma cells. These results suggest that targeting prohibitins could be a new therapeutic strategy for myeloma multiple.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ana M Cosialls
- Departament de Ciències Fisiològiques, Facultat de Medicina i Ciències de la Salut, Universitat de Barcelona, Oncobell-IDIBELL (Institut d'Investigació Biomèdica de Bellvitge), L'Hospitalet de Llobregat, Barcelona, Spain
| | - Ismael Sánchez-Vera
- Departament de Ciències Fisiològiques, Facultat de Medicina i Ciències de la Salut, Universitat de Barcelona, Oncobell-IDIBELL (Institut d'Investigació Biomèdica de Bellvitge), L'Hospitalet de Llobregat, Barcelona, Spain
| | - Helena Pomares
- Departament de Ciències Fisiològiques, Facultat de Medicina i Ciències de la Salut, Universitat de Barcelona, Oncobell-IDIBELL (Institut d'Investigació Biomèdica de Bellvitge), L'Hospitalet de Llobregat, Barcelona, Spain; Servei d'Hematologia Clínica, Institut Català d'Oncologia, Oncobell-IDIBELL, L'Hospitalet de Llobregat, Barcelona, Spain
| | - Judit Perramon-Andújar
- Departament de Ciències Fisiològiques, Facultat de Medicina i Ciències de la Salut, Universitat de Barcelona, Oncobell-IDIBELL (Institut d'Investigació Biomèdica de Bellvitge), L'Hospitalet de Llobregat, Barcelona, Spain
| | - Sandra Sanchez-Esteban
- Departament de Ciències Fisiològiques, Facultat de Medicina i Ciències de la Salut, Universitat de Barcelona, Oncobell-IDIBELL (Institut d'Investigació Biomèdica de Bellvitge), L'Hospitalet de Llobregat, Barcelona, Spain
| | - Claudia M Palmeri
- Departament de Ciències Fisiològiques, Facultat de Medicina i Ciències de la Salut, Universitat de Barcelona, Oncobell-IDIBELL (Institut d'Investigació Biomèdica de Bellvitge), L'Hospitalet de Llobregat, Barcelona, Spain
| | - Daniel Iglesias-Serret
- Departament de Ciències Fisiològiques, Facultat de Medicina i Ciències de la Salut, Universitat de Barcelona, Oncobell-IDIBELL (Institut d'Investigació Biomèdica de Bellvitge), L'Hospitalet de Llobregat, Barcelona, Spain; Facultat de Medicina, Universitat de Vic - Universitat Central de Catalunya (UVic- UCC), Vic, Barcelona, Spain
| | - José Saura-Esteller
- Departament de Ciències Fisiològiques, Facultat de Medicina i Ciències de la Salut, Universitat de Barcelona, Oncobell-IDIBELL (Institut d'Investigació Biomèdica de Bellvitge), L'Hospitalet de Llobregat, Barcelona, Spain
| | - Sonia Núñez-Vázquez
- Departament de Ciències Fisiològiques, Facultat de Medicina i Ciències de la Salut, Universitat de Barcelona, Oncobell-IDIBELL (Institut d'Investigació Biomèdica de Bellvitge), L'Hospitalet de Llobregat, Barcelona, Spain
| | - Rodolfo Lavilla
- Laboratory of Medical Chemistry, Faculty of Pharmacy and Food Sciences and Institute of Medicine (IBUB), University of Barcelona, Barcelona, Spain
| | - Eva M González-Barca
- Servei d'Hematologia Clínica, Institut Català d'Oncologia, Oncobell-IDIBELL, L'Hospitalet de Llobregat, Barcelona, Spain
| | - Gabriel Pons
- Departament de Ciències Fisiològiques, Facultat de Medicina i Ciències de la Salut, Universitat de Barcelona, Oncobell-IDIBELL (Institut d'Investigació Biomèdica de Bellvitge), L'Hospitalet de Llobregat, Barcelona, Spain
| | - Joan Gil
- Departament de Ciències Fisiològiques, Facultat de Medicina i Ciències de la Salut, Universitat de Barcelona, Oncobell-IDIBELL (Institut d'Investigació Biomèdica de Bellvitge), L'Hospitalet de Llobregat, Barcelona, Spain.
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54
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Saddozai UAK, Wang F, Cheng Y, Lu Z, Akbar MU, Zhu W, Li Y, Ji X, Guo X. Gene expression profile identifies distinct molecular subtypes and potential therapeutic genes in Merkel cell carcinoma. Transl Oncol 2020; 13:100816. [PMID: 32771971 PMCID: PMC7412862 DOI: 10.1016/j.tranon.2020.100816] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/14/2020] [Revised: 06/01/2020] [Accepted: 06/01/2020] [Indexed: 12/17/2022] Open
Abstract
Merkel cell carcinoma (MCC) is a rare primary cutaneous neoplasm of neuroendocrine carcinoma of the skin. About 80% of the MCC occurs due to Merkel cell polyomavirus (MCPyV) and 20% of the tumors usually occur due to severe UV exposure which is a more aggressive type of MCC. It tends to have an increased incidence rate among elderly and immunosuppressed individuals. On therapeutic level, sub-classification of MCC through molecular subtyping has emerged as a promising technique for MCC prognosis. In current study, two consistent distinct molecular subtypes of MCCs were identified using gene expression profiling data. Subtypes I MCCs were associated with spliceosome, DNA replication and cellular pathways. On the other hand, genes overexpressed in subtype II were found active in TNF signalling pathway and MAPK signalling pathway. We proposed different therapeutic targets based on subtype specificity, such as PTCH1, CDKN2A, AURKA in case of subtype I and MCL1, FGFR2 for subtype II. Such findings may provide fruitful knowledge to understand the intrinsic subtypes of MCCs and the pathways involved in distinct subtype oncogenesis, and will further advance the knowledge in developing a specific therapeutic strategy for these MCC subtypes. Merkel cell carcinoma (MCC) a rare and highly aggressive neuroendocrine carcinoma of the skin Sub-classification of MCC through molecular subtyping Identification of two distinct molecular subtypes of MCCs using gene expression profiling data Classification of different therapeutic targets based on subtype specificity
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Affiliation(s)
- Umair Ali Khan Saddozai
- Department of Preventive Medicine, Institute of Biomedical Informatics, Cell Signal Transduction Laboratory, Bioinformatics Center, School of Basic Medical Sciences, Henan University, Kaifeng 475004, China
| | - Fengling Wang
- Department of Preventive Medicine, Institute of Biomedical Informatics, Cell Signal Transduction Laboratory, Bioinformatics Center, School of Basic Medical Sciences, Henan University, Kaifeng 475004, China
| | - Yu Cheng
- Pharmacy Department, Luoyang maternal and Child Health Hospital, Luoyang 471023, China
| | - Zhang Lu
- Department of Preventive Medicine, Institute of Biomedical Informatics, Cell Signal Transduction Laboratory, Bioinformatics Center, School of Basic Medical Sciences, Henan University, Kaifeng 475004, China
| | - Muhammad Usman Akbar
- Gomal Center of Biochemistry and Biotechnology, Gomal University, Dera Ismail Khan 29050, Pakistan
| | - Wan Zhu
- Department of Anesthesia, Stanford University, 300 Pasteur Drive, Stanford, CA 94305, USA
| | - Yongqiang Li
- Department of Preventive Medicine, Institute of Biomedical Informatics, Cell Signal Transduction Laboratory, Bioinformatics Center, School of Basic Medical Sciences, Henan University, Kaifeng 475004, China.
| | - Xinying Ji
- Department of Preventive Medicine, Institute of Biomedical Informatics, Cell Signal Transduction Laboratory, Bioinformatics Center, School of Basic Medical Sciences, Henan University, Kaifeng 475004, China.
| | - Xiangqian Guo
- Department of Preventive Medicine, Institute of Biomedical Informatics, Cell Signal Transduction Laboratory, Bioinformatics Center, School of Basic Medical Sciences, Henan University, Kaifeng 475004, China.
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55
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Zou J, Jones RJ, Wang H, Kuiatse I, Shirazi F, Manasanch EE, Lee HC, Sullivan R, Fung L, Richard N, Erdman P, Torres E, Hecht D, Lam I, McElwee B, Chourasia AH, Chan KWH, Mercurio F, Stirling DI, Orlowski RZ. The novel protein homeostatic modulator BTX306 is active in myeloma and overcomes bortezomib and lenalidomide resistance. J Mol Med (Berl) 2020; 98:1161-1173. [PMID: 32632752 PMCID: PMC10838157 DOI: 10.1007/s00109-020-01943-6] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/02/2020] [Revised: 05/31/2020] [Accepted: 06/18/2020] [Indexed: 10/23/2022]
Abstract
Small molecules targeting the cereblon-containing E3 ubiquitin ligase including thalidomide, lenalidomide, and pomalidomide modulate turnover of downstream client proteins and demonstrate pre-clinical and clinical anti-myeloma activity. Different drugs that engage with cereblon hold the potential of unique phenotypic effects, and we therefore studied the novel protein homeostatic modulator (PHM™) BTX306 with a unique thiophene-fused scaffold bearing a substituted phenylurea and glutarimide. This agent much more potently reduced human-derived myeloma cell line viability, with median inhibitory concentrations in the single nanomolar range versus micromolar values for lenalidomide or pomalidomide, and more potently activated caspases 3/8/9. While lenalidomide and pomalidomide induced greater degradation of Ikaros and Aiolos in myeloma cells, BTX306 more potently reduced levels of GSPT1, eRF1, CK1α, MCL-1, and c-MYC. Suppression of cereblon or overexpression of Aiolos or Ikaros induced relative resistance to BTX306, and this agent did not impact viability of murine hematopoietic cells in an in vivo model, demonstrating its specificity for human cereblon. Interestingly, BTX306 did show some reduced activity in lenalidomide-resistant cell line models but nonetheless retained its nanomolar potency in vitro, overcame bortezomib resistance, and was equipotent against otherwise isogenic cell line models with either wild-type or knockout TP53. Finally, BTX306 demonstrated strong activity against primary CD138-positive plasma cells, showed enhanced anti-proliferative activity in combination with bortezomib and dexamethasone, and was effective in an in vivo systemic model of multiple myeloma. Taken together, the data support further translational studies of BTX306 and its derivatives to the clinic for patients with relapsed and/or refractory myeloma. KEY MESSAGES: BTX306 has a unique thiophene-fused scaffold bearing phenylurea and glutarimide. BTX306 is more potent against myeloma cells than lenalidomide or pomalidomide. BTX306 overcomes myeloma cell resistance to lenalidomide or bortezomib in vitro. BTX306 is active against primary myeloma cells, and shows efficacy in vivo.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jianxuan Zou
- Department of Lymphoma and Myeloma, The University of Texas MD Anderson Cancer Center, 1515 Holcombe Blvd., Unit 429, Houston, TX, 77030, USA
| | - Richard J Jones
- Department of Lymphoma and Myeloma, The University of Texas MD Anderson Cancer Center, 1515 Holcombe Blvd., Unit 429, Houston, TX, 77030, USA
| | - Hua Wang
- Department of Lymphoma and Myeloma, The University of Texas MD Anderson Cancer Center, 1515 Holcombe Blvd., Unit 429, Houston, TX, 77030, USA
| | - Isere Kuiatse
- Department of Lymphoma and Myeloma, The University of Texas MD Anderson Cancer Center, 1515 Holcombe Blvd., Unit 429, Houston, TX, 77030, USA
| | - Fazal Shirazi
- Department of Lymphoma and Myeloma, The University of Texas MD Anderson Cancer Center, 1515 Holcombe Blvd., Unit 429, Houston, TX, 77030, USA
| | - Elisabet E Manasanch
- Department of Lymphoma and Myeloma, The University of Texas MD Anderson Cancer Center, 1515 Holcombe Blvd., Unit 429, Houston, TX, 77030, USA
| | - Hans C Lee
- Department of Lymphoma and Myeloma, The University of Texas MD Anderson Cancer Center, 1515 Holcombe Blvd., Unit 429, Houston, TX, 77030, USA
| | | | | | | | | | | | - David Hecht
- School of Mathematics, Science & Engineering, Southwestern College, Chula Vista, CA, USA
| | | | | | | | | | | | | | - Robert Z Orlowski
- Department of Lymphoma and Myeloma, The University of Texas MD Anderson Cancer Center, 1515 Holcombe Blvd., Unit 429, Houston, TX, 77030, USA.
- Department of Experimental Therapeutics, The University of Texas MD Anderson Cancer Center, Houston, TX, USA.
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56
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BCL-W is dispensable for the sustained survival of select Burkitt lymphoma and diffuse large B-cell lymphoma cell lines. Blood Adv 2020; 4:356-366. [PMID: 31985804 DOI: 10.1182/bloodadvances.2019000541] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/04/2019] [Accepted: 01/04/2020] [Indexed: 12/28/2022] Open
Abstract
Dysregulated expression of BCL-2 family proteins allows cancer cells to escape apoptosis. To counter this, BH3-mimetic drugs that target and inhibit select BCL-2 prosurvival proteins to induce apoptosis have been developed for cancer therapy. Venetoclax, which targets BCL-2, has been effective as therapy for patients with chronic lymphocytic leukemia, and MCL-1-targeting BH3-mimetic drugs have been extensively evaluated in preclinical studies for a range of blood cancers. Recently, BCL-W, a relatively understudied prosurvival member of the BCL-2 protein family, has been reported to be abnormally upregulated in Burkitt lymphoma (BL), diffuse large B-cell lymphoma (DLBCL), and Hodgkin lymphoma patient samples. Therefore, to determine if BCL-W would be a promising therapeutic target for B-cell lymphomas, we have examined the role of BCL-W in the sustained growth of human BL- and DLBCL-derived cell lines. We found that CRISPR/CAS9-mediated loss or short hairpin RNA-mediated knockdown of BCL-W expression in selected BL and DLBCL cell lines did not lead to spontaneous apoptosis and had no effect on their sensitivity to a range of BH3-mimetic drugs targeting other BCL-2 prosurvival proteins. Our results suggest that BCL-W is not universally required for the sustained growth and survival of human BL and DLBCL cell lines. Thus, targeting BCL-W in this subset of B-cell lymphomas may not be of broad therapeutic benefit.
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57
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Satta T, Grant S. Enhancing venetoclax activity in hematological malignancies. Expert Opin Investig Drugs 2020; 29:697-708. [PMID: 32600066 PMCID: PMC7529910 DOI: 10.1080/13543784.2020.1789588] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/26/2020] [Accepted: 06/26/2020] [Indexed: 02/06/2023]
Abstract
INTRODUCTION Targeting anti-apoptotic pathways involving the BCL2 family proteins represents a novel treatment strategy in hematologic malignancies. Venetoclax, a selective BCL2 inhibitor, represents the first approved agent of this class, and is currently used in CLL and AML. However, monotherapy is rarely sufficient for sustained responses due to the development of drug resistance and loss of dependence upon the targeted protein. Numerous pre-clinical studies have shown that combining venetoclax with other agents may represent a more effective therapeutic strategy by circumventing resistance mechanisms. In this review, we summarize pre-clinical data providing a foundation for rational combination strategies involving venetoclax. AREAS COVERED Novel combination strategies in hematologic malignancies involving venetoclax, primarily at the pre-clinical level, will be reviewed. We emphasize novel agents that interrupt complementary or compensatory pro-survival pathways, and particularly mechanistic insights underlying synergism. PubMed, Cochrane, EMBASE, and Google scholar were searched from 2000. EXPERT OPINION Although venetoclax has proven to be an effective therapeutic in hematologic malignancies, monotherapy may be insufficient for maximal effectiveness due to the development of resistance and/or loss of BCL2 addiction. Further pre-clinical and clinical development of combination therapies may be necessary for optimal outcomes in patients with diverse blood cancers.
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Affiliation(s)
- Toshihisa Satta
- Division of Hematology/Oncology, Virginia Commonwealth University , Richmond, USA
| | - Steven Grant
- Division of Hematology/Oncology, Virginia Commonwealth University , Richmond, USA
- Department of Biochemistry, Virginia Commonwealth University , Richmond, USA
- Department of Pharmacology, Virginia Commonwealth University , Richmond, USA
- Department of Molecular and Human Genetics, Virginia Commonwealth University , Richmond, USA
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58
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Teh CE, Gong JN, Segal D, Tan T, Vandenberg CJ, Fedele PL, Low MSY, Grigoriadis G, Harrison SJ, Strasser A, Roberts AW, Huang DCS, Nolan GP, Gray DHD, Ko ME. Deep profiling of apoptotic pathways with mass cytometry identifies a synergistic drug combination for killing myeloma cells. Cell Death Differ 2020; 27:2217-2233. [PMID: 31988495 PMCID: PMC7308383 DOI: 10.1038/s41418-020-0498-z] [Citation(s) in RCA: 24] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/29/2019] [Revised: 01/13/2020] [Accepted: 01/14/2020] [Indexed: 12/19/2022] Open
Abstract
Multiple myeloma is an incurable and fatal cancer of immunoglobulin-secreting plasma cells. Most conventional therapies aim to induce apoptosis in myeloma cells but resistance to these drugs often arises and drives relapse. In this study, we sought to identify the best adjunct targets to kill myeloma cells resistant to conventional therapies using deep profiling by mass cytometry (CyTOF). We validated probes to simultaneously detect 26 regulators of cell death, mitosis, cell signaling, and cancer-related pathways at the single-cell level following treatment of myeloma cells with dexamethasone or bortezomib. Time-resolved visualization algorithms and machine learning random forest models (RFMs) delineated putative cell death trajectories and a hierarchy of parameters that specified myeloma cell survival versus apoptosis following treatment. Among these parameters, increased amounts of phosphorylated cAMP response element-binding protein (CREB) and the pro-survival protein, MCL-1, were defining features of cells surviving drug treatment. Importantly, the RFM prediction that the combination of an MCL-1 inhibitor with dexamethasone would elicit potent, synergistic killing of myeloma cells was validated in other cell lines, in vivo preclinical models and primary myeloma samples from patients. Furthermore, CyTOF analysis of patient bone marrow cells clearly identified myeloma cells and their key cell survival features. This study demonstrates the utility of CyTOF profiling at the single-cell level to identify clinically relevant drug combinations and tracking of patient responses for future clinical trials.
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Affiliation(s)
- Charis E Teh
- The Walter and Eliza Hall Institute of Medical Research, Parkville, VIC, Australia
- Department of Medical Biology, The University of Melbourne, Parkville, VIC, Australia
| | - Jia-Nan Gong
- The Walter and Eliza Hall Institute of Medical Research, Parkville, VIC, Australia
- Department of Medical Biology, The University of Melbourne, Parkville, VIC, Australia
| | - David Segal
- The Walter and Eliza Hall Institute of Medical Research, Parkville, VIC, Australia
- Department of Medical Biology, The University of Melbourne, Parkville, VIC, Australia
| | - Tania Tan
- The Walter and Eliza Hall Institute of Medical Research, Parkville, VIC, Australia
| | - Cassandra J Vandenberg
- The Walter and Eliza Hall Institute of Medical Research, Parkville, VIC, Australia
- Department of Medical Biology, The University of Melbourne, Parkville, VIC, Australia
| | - Pasquale L Fedele
- The Walter and Eliza Hall Institute of Medical Research, Parkville, VIC, Australia
- Department of Medical Biology, The University of Melbourne, Parkville, VIC, Australia
- Monash Haematology, Monash Health, Clayton, VIC, Australia
| | - Michael S Y Low
- The Walter and Eliza Hall Institute of Medical Research, Parkville, VIC, Australia
- Department of Medical Biology, The University of Melbourne, Parkville, VIC, Australia
- Monash Haematology, Monash Health, Clayton, VIC, Australia
| | - George Grigoriadis
- Monash Haematology, Monash Health, Clayton, VIC, Australia
- School of Clinical Sciences at Monash Health, Monash University, Clayton, VIC, Australia
- Centre for Cancer Research, Hudson Institute of Medical Research, Clayton, VIC, Australia
| | - Simon J Harrison
- Clinical Haematology, Peter MacCallum Cancer Centre and Royal Melbourne Hospital, Parkville, VIC, Australia
- Sir Peter MacCallum Department of Oncology, Melbourne University, Parkville, VIC, Australia
| | - Andreas Strasser
- The Walter and Eliza Hall Institute of Medical Research, Parkville, VIC, Australia
- Department of Medical Biology, The University of Melbourne, Parkville, VIC, Australia
| | - Andrew W Roberts
- The Walter and Eliza Hall Institute of Medical Research, Parkville, VIC, Australia
- Department of Medical Biology, The University of Melbourne, Parkville, VIC, Australia
- Clinical Haematology, Peter MacCallum Cancer Centre and Royal Melbourne Hospital, Parkville, VIC, Australia
- Sir Peter MacCallum Department of Oncology, Melbourne University, Parkville, VIC, Australia
| | - David C S Huang
- The Walter and Eliza Hall Institute of Medical Research, Parkville, VIC, Australia
- Department of Medical Biology, The University of Melbourne, Parkville, VIC, Australia
| | - Garry P Nolan
- Baxter Laboratory for Stem Cell Biology, Stanford School of Medicine, Stanford, CA, USA.
- Cancer Biology Program, Stanford School of Medicine, Stanford, CA, USA.
| | - Daniel H D Gray
- The Walter and Eliza Hall Institute of Medical Research, Parkville, VIC, Australia.
- Department of Medical Biology, The University of Melbourne, Parkville, VIC, Australia.
| | - Melissa E Ko
- Baxter Laboratory for Stem Cell Biology, Stanford School of Medicine, Stanford, CA, USA
- Cancer Biology Program, Stanford School of Medicine, Stanford, CA, USA
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59
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Strasser A, Vaux DL. Cell Death in the Origin and Treatment of Cancer. Mol Cell 2020; 78:1045-1054. [PMID: 32516599 DOI: 10.1016/j.molcel.2020.05.014] [Citation(s) in RCA: 172] [Impact Index Per Article: 43.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/11/2020] [Revised: 05/12/2020] [Accepted: 05/12/2020] [Indexed: 12/11/2022]
Abstract
Cell death, or, more specifically, cell suicide, is a process of fundamental importance to human health. Throughout our lives, over a million cells are produced every second. When organismal growth has stopped, to balance cell division, a similar number of cells must be removed. This is achieved by activation of molecular mechanisms that have evolved so that cells can destroy themselves. The first clues regarding the nature of one of these mechanisms came from studying genes associated with cancer, in particular the gene for BCL-2. Subsequent studies revealed that mutations or other defects that inhibit cell death allow cells to accumulate, prevent removal of cells with damaged DNA, and increase the resistance of malignant cells to chemotherapy. Knowledge of this mechanism has allowed development of drugs that kill cancer cells by directly activating the cell death machinery and by synergizing with conventional chemotherapy as well as targeted agents to achieve improved outcomes for cancer patients.
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Affiliation(s)
- Andreas Strasser
- The Walter and Eliza Hall Institute of Medical Research, 1G Royal Parade, Parkville, VIC 3052, Australia; Department of Medical Biology, The University of Melbourne, Melbourne, VIC 3052, Australia.
| | - David L Vaux
- The Walter and Eliza Hall Institute of Medical Research, 1G Royal Parade, Parkville, VIC 3052, Australia; Department of Medical Biology, The University of Melbourne, Melbourne, VIC 3052, Australia.
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60
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Mrozik KM, Cheong CM, Hewett DR, Noll JE, Opperman KS, Adwal A, Russell DL, Blaschuk OW, Vandyke K, Zannettino ACW. LCRF-0006, a small molecule mimetic of the N-cadherin antagonist peptide ADH-1, synergistically increases multiple myeloma response to bortezomib. FASEB Bioadv 2020; 2:339-353. [PMID: 32617520 PMCID: PMC7325588 DOI: 10.1096/fba.2019-00073] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/28/2019] [Revised: 03/31/2020] [Accepted: 04/02/2020] [Indexed: 12/13/2022] Open
Abstract
N-cadherin is a homophilic cell-cell adhesion molecule that plays a critical role in maintaining vascular stability and modulating endothelial barrier permeability. Pre-clinical studies have shown that the N-cadherin antagonist peptide, ADH-1, increases the permeability of tumor-associated vasculature thereby increasing anti-cancer drug delivery to tumors and enhancing tumor response. Small molecule library screens have identified a novel compound, LCRF-0006, that is a mimetic of the classical cadherin His-Ala-Val sequence-containing region of ADH-1. Here, we evaluated the vascular permeability-enhancing and anti-cancer properties of LCRF-0006 using in vitro vascular disruption and cell apoptosis assays, and a well-established pre-clinical model (C57BL/KaLwRij/5TGM1) of the hematological cancer multiple myeloma (MM). We found that LCRF-0006 disrupted endothelial cell junctions in a rapid, transient and reversible manner, and increased vascular permeability in vitro and at sites of MM tumor in vivo. Notably, LCRF-0006 synergistically increased the in vivo anti-MM tumor response to low-dose bortezomib, a frontline anti-MM agent, leading to regression of disease in 100% of mice. Moreover, LCRF-0006 and bortezomib synergistically induced 5TGM1 MM tumor cell apoptosis in vitro. Our findings demonstrate the potential clinical utility of LCRF-0006 to significantly increase bortezomib effectiveness and enhance the depth of tumor response in patients with MM.
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Affiliation(s)
- Krzysztof M. Mrozik
- Myeloma Research LaboratoryAdelaide Medical SchoolFaculty of Health and Medical SciencesThe University of AdelaideAdelaideAustralia
- Precision Medicine ThemeSouth Australian Health and Medical Research Institute (SAHMRI)AdelaideAustralia
| | - Chee M. Cheong
- Myeloma Research LaboratoryAdelaide Medical SchoolFaculty of Health and Medical SciencesThe University of AdelaideAdelaideAustralia
- Precision Medicine ThemeSouth Australian Health and Medical Research Institute (SAHMRI)AdelaideAustralia
| | - Duncan R. Hewett
- Myeloma Research LaboratoryAdelaide Medical SchoolFaculty of Health and Medical SciencesThe University of AdelaideAdelaideAustralia
- Precision Medicine ThemeSouth Australian Health and Medical Research Institute (SAHMRI)AdelaideAustralia
| | - Jacqueline E. Noll
- Myeloma Research LaboratoryAdelaide Medical SchoolFaculty of Health and Medical SciencesThe University of AdelaideAdelaideAustralia
- Precision Medicine ThemeSouth Australian Health and Medical Research Institute (SAHMRI)AdelaideAustralia
| | - Khatora S. Opperman
- Myeloma Research LaboratoryAdelaide Medical SchoolFaculty of Health and Medical SciencesThe University of AdelaideAdelaideAustralia
- Precision Medicine ThemeSouth Australian Health and Medical Research Institute (SAHMRI)AdelaideAustralia
| | - Alaknanda Adwal
- Ovarian and Reproductive Cancer Biology LaboratoryRobinson Research InstituteThe University of AdelaideAdelaideAustralia
| | - Darryl L. Russell
- Ovarian and Reproductive Cancer Biology LaboratoryRobinson Research InstituteThe University of AdelaideAdelaideAustralia
| | - Orest W. Blaschuk
- Division of UrologyDepartment of SurgeryMcGill UniversityMontrealCanada
| | - Kate Vandyke
- Myeloma Research LaboratoryAdelaide Medical SchoolFaculty of Health and Medical SciencesThe University of AdelaideAdelaideAustralia
- Precision Medicine ThemeSouth Australian Health and Medical Research Institute (SAHMRI)AdelaideAustralia
| | - Andrew C. W. Zannettino
- Myeloma Research LaboratoryAdelaide Medical SchoolFaculty of Health and Medical SciencesThe University of AdelaideAdelaideAustralia
- Precision Medicine ThemeSouth Australian Health and Medical Research Institute (SAHMRI)AdelaideAustralia
- Central Adelaide Local Health NetworkAdelaideAustralia
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Dual targeting of BCL2 and MCL1 rescues myeloma cells resistant to BCL2 and MCL1 inhibitors associated with the formation of BAX/BAK hetero-complexes. Cell Death Dis 2020; 11:316. [PMID: 32371863 PMCID: PMC7200824 DOI: 10.1038/s41419-020-2505-1] [Citation(s) in RCA: 19] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/28/2020] [Revised: 04/09/2020] [Accepted: 04/10/2020] [Indexed: 11/08/2022]
Abstract
Multiple myeloma is a plasma cell malignancy that escapes from apoptosis by heterogeneously over-expressing anti-apoptotic BCL2 proteins. Myeloma cells with a t(11;14) translocation present a particular vulnerability to BCL2 inhibition while a majority of myeloma cells relies on MCL1 for survival. The present study aimed to determine whether the combination of BCL2 and MCL1 inhibitors at low doses could be of benefit for myeloma cells beyond the single selective inhibition of BCL2 or MCL1. We identified that half of patients were not efficiently targeted neither by BCL2 inhibitor nor MCL1 inhibitor. Seventy percent of these myeloma samples, either from patients at diagnosis or relapse, presented a marked increase of apoptosis upon low dose combination of both inhibitors. Interestingly, primary cells from a patient in progression under venetoclax treatment were not sensitive ex vivo to neither venetoclax nor to MCL1 inhibitor, whereas the combination of both efficiently induced cell death. This finding suggests that the combination could overcome venetoclax resistance. The efficacy of the combination was also confirmed in U266 xenograft model resistant to BCL2 and MCL1 inhibitors. Mechanistically, we demonstrated that the combination of both inhibitors favors apoptosis in a BAX/BAK dependent manner. We showed that activated BAX was readily increased upon the inhibitor combination leading to the formation of BAK/BAX hetero-complexes. We found that BCLXL remains a major resistant factor of cell death induced by this combination. The present study supports a rational for the clinical use of venetoclax/S63845 combination in myeloma patients with the potential to elicit significant clinical activity when both single inhibitors would not be effective but also to overcome developed in vivo venetoclax resistance.
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Hong L, Zhang C, Jiang Y, Liu H, Huang H, Guo D. Therapeutic status and the prospect of CRISPR/Cas9 gene editing in multiple myeloma. Future Oncol 2020; 16:1125-1136. [PMID: 32338048 DOI: 10.2217/fon-2019-0822] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 02/07/2023] Open
Abstract
In recent years, CRISPR/Cas9, a novel gene-editing technology, has shown considerable potential in the design of novel research methods and future options for treating multiple myeloma (MM). The use of CRISPR/Cas9 promises faster and more accurate identification and validation of target genes. In this review, we summarize the current research status of the application of CRISPR technology in MM, especially in detecting the expression of MM gene, exploring the mechanism of drug action, screening for drug-resistant genes, developing immunotherapy and screening for new drug targets. Given the tremendous progress that has been made, we believe that CRISPR/Cas9 possesses great potential in MM-related clinical practice.
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Affiliation(s)
- Lemin Hong
- Department of Hematology, The Affiliated Hospital of Nantong University, Jiangsu, PR China
| | - Chenlu Zhang
- Department of Hematology, The Affiliated Hospital of Nantong University, Jiangsu, PR China
| | - Yijing Jiang
- Department of Hematology, The Affiliated Hospital of Nantong University, Jiangsu, PR China
| | - Haiyan Liu
- Department of Hematology, The Affiliated Hospital of Nantong University, Jiangsu, PR China
| | - Hongming Huang
- Department of Hematology, The Affiliated Hospital of Nantong University, Jiangsu, PR China
| | - Dan Guo
- Department of Hematology, The Affiliated Hospital of Nantong University, Jiangsu, PR China
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Bolomsky A, Muller J, Stangelberger K, Lejeune M, Duray E, Breid H, Vrancken L, Pfeiffer C, Hübl W, Willheim M, Weetall M, Branstrom A, Zojer N, Caers J, Ludwig H. The anti-mitotic agents PTC-028 and PTC596 display potent activity in pre-clinical models of multiple myeloma but challenge the role of BMI-1 as an essential tumour gene. Br J Haematol 2020; 190:877-890. [PMID: 32232850 DOI: 10.1111/bjh.16595] [Citation(s) in RCA: 14] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/03/2019] [Accepted: 03/02/2020] [Indexed: 12/29/2022]
Abstract
Future progress in the treatment of multiple myeloma (MM) requires both the characterisation of key drivers of the disease and novel, innovative approaches to tackle these vulnerabilities. The present study focussed on the pre-clinical evaluation of a novel drug class, BMI-1 modulators, in MM. We demonstrate potent activity of PTC-028 and PTC596 in a comprehensive set of in vitro and in vivo models, including models of drug resistance and stromal support. Treatment of MM cells with PTC-028 and PTC596 downregulated BMI-1 protein levels, which was found to correlate with drug activity. Surprisingly, BMI-1 was dispensable for the activity of BMI-1 modulators and MM cell growth. Our data rather point to mitotic arrest accompanied by myeloid cell leukaemia-1 (MCL-1) loss as key anti-MM mechanisms and reveal impaired MYC and AKT signalling activity due to BMI-1 modulator treatment. Moreover, we observed a complete eradication of MM after PTC596 treatment in the 5TGM.1 in vivo model and define epigenetic compounds and B cell leukaemia/lymphoma 2 homology domain 3 (BH3) mimetics as promising combination partners. These results bring into question the postulated role of BMI-1 as an essential MM gene and confirm BMI-1 modulators as potent anti-mitotic agents with encouraging pre-clinical activity that supports their rapid translation into clinical trials.
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Affiliation(s)
- Arnold Bolomsky
- Department of Medicine I, Wilhelminen Cancer Research Institute, Wilhelminenspital, Vienna, Austria
| | - Joséphine Muller
- Laboratory of Hematology, GIGA-I3, University of Liège, Liège, Belgium
| | - Kathrin Stangelberger
- Department of Medicine I, Wilhelminen Cancer Research Institute, Wilhelminenspital, Vienna, Austria
| | - Margaux Lejeune
- Laboratory of Hematology, GIGA-I3, University of Liège, Liège, Belgium
| | - Elodie Duray
- Laboratory of Hematology, GIGA-I3, University of Liège, Liège, Belgium
| | - Helene Breid
- Department of Medicine I, Wilhelminen Cancer Research Institute, Wilhelminenspital, Vienna, Austria
| | - Louise Vrancken
- Laboratory of Hematology, GIGA-I3, University of Liège, Liège, Belgium
| | - Christina Pfeiffer
- Department of Medicine I, Wilhelminen Cancer Research Institute, Wilhelminenspital, Vienna, Austria
| | - Wolfgang Hübl
- Department of Laboratory Medicine, Wilhelminenspital, Vienna, Austria
| | - Martin Willheim
- Department of Laboratory Medicine, Wilhelminenspital, Vienna, Austria
| | | | | | - Niklas Zojer
- Department of Medicine I, Wilhelminen Cancer Research Institute, Wilhelminenspital, Vienna, Austria
| | - Jo Caers
- Laboratory of Hematology, GIGA-I3, University of Liège, Liège, Belgium
| | - Heinz Ludwig
- Department of Medicine I, Wilhelminen Cancer Research Institute, Wilhelminenspital, Vienna, Austria
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Jullien M, Gomez-Bougie P, Chiron D, Touzeau C. Restoring Apoptosis with BH3 Mimetics in Mature B-Cell Malignancies. Cells 2020; 9:E717. [PMID: 32183335 PMCID: PMC7140641 DOI: 10.3390/cells9030717] [Citation(s) in RCA: 13] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/04/2020] [Revised: 03/08/2020] [Accepted: 03/12/2020] [Indexed: 02/07/2023] Open
Abstract
Apoptosis is a highly conserved mechanism enabling the removal of unwanted cells. Mitochondrial apoptosis is governed by the B-cell lymphoma (BCL-2) family, including anti-apoptotic and pro-apoptotic proteins. Apoptosis evasion by dysregulation of anti-apoptotic BCL-2 members (BCL-2, MCL-1, BCL-XL) is a common hallmark in cancers. To divert this dysregulation into vulnerability, researchers have developed BH3 mimetics, which are small molecules that restore effective apoptosis in neoplastic cells by interfering with anti-apoptotic proteins. Among them, venetoclax is a potent and selective BCL-2 inhibitor, which has demonstrated the strongest clinical activity in mature B-cell malignancies, including chronic lymphoid leukemia, mantle-cell lymphoma, and multiple myeloma. Nevertheless, mechanisms of primary and acquired resistance have been recently described and several features such as cytogenetic abnormalities, BCL-2 family expression, and ex vivo drug testing have to be considered for predicting sensitivity to BH3 mimetics and helping in the identification of patients able to respond. The medical need to overcome resistance to BH3 mimetics supports the evaluation of innovative combination strategies. Novel agents including MCL-1 targeting BH3 mimetics are currently evaluated and may represent new therapeutic options in the field. The present review summarizes the current knowledge regarding venetoclax and other BH3 mimetics for the treatment of mature B-cell malignancies.
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Affiliation(s)
- Maxime Jullien
- Clinical Hematology, Nantes University Hospital, 1 place A. Ricordeau, 44000 Nantes, France;
| | - Patricia Gomez-Bougie
- CRCINA, INSERM, CNRS, Angers University, Nantes University, 8 quai Moncousu, 44000 Nantes, France; (P.G.-B.); (D.C.)
- Integrated Cancer Research Center (SIRIC), ILIAD, 5 Allée de l’Ile Gloriette, 44093 Nantes, France
| | - David Chiron
- CRCINA, INSERM, CNRS, Angers University, Nantes University, 8 quai Moncousu, 44000 Nantes, France; (P.G.-B.); (D.C.)
- Integrated Cancer Research Center (SIRIC), ILIAD, 5 Allée de l’Ile Gloriette, 44093 Nantes, France
| | - Cyrille Touzeau
- Clinical Hematology, Nantes University Hospital, 1 place A. Ricordeau, 44000 Nantes, France;
- CRCINA, INSERM, CNRS, Angers University, Nantes University, 8 quai Moncousu, 44000 Nantes, France; (P.G.-B.); (D.C.)
- Integrated Cancer Research Center (SIRIC), ILIAD, 5 Allée de l’Ile Gloriette, 44093 Nantes, France
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65
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Kelly GL, Strasser A. Toward Targeting Antiapoptotic MCL-1 for Cancer Therapy. ANNUAL REVIEW OF CANCER BIOLOGY-SERIES 2020. [DOI: 10.1146/annurev-cancerbio-030419-033510] [Citation(s) in RCA: 19] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/09/2022]
Abstract
Apoptosis is critical for embryonic development, tissue homeostasis, and the removal of infected or otherwise dangerous cells. It is controlled by three subgroups of the BCL-2 protein family—the BH3-only proteins that initiate cell death; the effectors of cell killing, BAX and BAK; and the antiapoptotic guardians, including MCL-1 and BCL-2. Defects in apoptosis can promote tumorigenesis and render malignant cells refractory to anticancer therapeutics. Activation of cell death by inhibiting antiapoptotic BCL-2 family members has emerged as an attractive strategy for cancer therapy, with the BCL-2 inhibitor venetoclax leading the way. Large-scale cancer genome analyses have revealed frequent amplification of the locus encoding antiapoptotic MCL-1 in human cancers, and functional studies have shown that MCL-1 is essential for the sustained survival and expansion of many types of tumor cells. Structural analysis and medicinal chemistry have led to the development of three distinct small-molecule inhibitors of MCL-1 that are currently undergoing clinical testing.
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Affiliation(s)
- Gemma L. Kelly
- The Walter and Eliza Hall Institute of Medical Research, Melbourne, Victoria 3052, Australia;,
- Department of Medical Biology, University of Melbourne, Melbourne, Victoria 3010, Australia
| | - Andreas Strasser
- The Walter and Eliza Hall Institute of Medical Research, Melbourne, Victoria 3052, Australia;,
- Department of Medical Biology, University of Melbourne, Melbourne, Victoria 3010, Australia
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66
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Wong KY, Chim CS. Venetoclax, bortezomib and S63845, an MCL1 inhibitor, in multiple myeloma. J Pharm Pharmacol 2020; 72:728-737. [DOI: 10.1111/jphp.13240] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/18/2019] [Accepted: 01/26/2020] [Indexed: 12/24/2022]
Abstract
Abstract
Objectives
Venetoclax, an orally available BCL2-selective inhibitor, has demonstrated promising single-agent anti-tumour activity in myeloma especially patients with t(11;14). Herein, whether venetoclax sensitivity could be enhanced or restored in combination with bortezomib or S63845, a novel MCL1-selective inhibitor, was examined in human myeloma cell lines (HMCLs), including bortezomib-resistant HMCLs.
Methods
By MTS assay, half-maximal inhibitory concentration (IC50) and hence sensitivity/resistance to venetoclax, bortezomib and S63845 were determined.
Key findings
Venetoclax (IC50 ≥100 nm), bortezomib (IC50 ≥50 nm) and S63845 (IC50 ≥100 nm) resistance was observed in nine (75%), three (25%) and six (50%) HMCLs, respectively. Moreover, venetoclax sensitivity was independent of bortezomib (R2 = 0.1107) or S63845 (R2 = 0.0213) sensitivity. Venetoclax sensitivity correlated with high mRNA ratio of BCL2/MCL1 (P = 0.0091), BCL2/BCL2L1 (P = 0.0182) and low MCL1 expression (P = 0.0091). In HMCLs sensitive to both venetoclax and bortezomib/S63845, venetoclax combined with S63845 showed stronger synergistic effect than combined with bortezomib. Moreover, in venetoclax-resistant HMCLs, S63845, but not bortezomib, significantly restored venetoclax sensitivity. Conversely, bortezomib combined with S63845 did not result in augmented bortezomib sensitivity or abolishment of bortezomib resistance.
Conclusions
Regardless of t(11;14), combination of venetoclax with S63845 is a promising strategy in enhancing venetoclax sensitivity or overcoming venetoclax resistance in myeloma therapy, hence warrant future clinical studies.
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Affiliation(s)
- Kwan Yeung Wong
- Department of Medicine, Queen Mary Hospital, The University of Hong Kong, Pokfulam, Hong Kong
| | - Chor Sang Chim
- Department of Medicine, Queen Mary Hospital, The University of Hong Kong, Pokfulam, Hong Kong
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Potent efficacy of MCL-1 inhibitor-based therapies in preclinical models of mantle cell lymphoma. Oncogene 2019; 39:2009-2023. [PMID: 31772331 DOI: 10.1038/s41388-019-1122-x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/20/2019] [Revised: 11/13/2019] [Accepted: 11/13/2019] [Indexed: 02/06/2023]
Abstract
Apoptosis-regulating BCL-2 family members, which can promote malignant transformation and resistance to therapy, have become prime therapeutic targets, as illustrated by the striking efficacy in certain lymphoid malignancies of the BCL-2-specific inhibitor venetoclax. In other lymphoid malignancies, however, such as the aggressive mantle cell lymphoma (MCL), cell survival might rely instead or also on BCL-2 relative MCL-1. We have explored MCL-1 as a target for killing MCL cells by both genetic and pharmacologic approaches. In several MCL cell lines, MCL-1 knockout with an inducible CRISPR/Cas9 system triggered spontaneous apoptosis. Accordingly, most MCL cell lines proved sensitive to the specific MCL-1 inhibitor S63845, and MCL-1 inhibition also proved efficacious in an MCL xenograft model. Furthermore, its killing efficacy rose on combination with venetoclax, the BCL-XL-specific inhibitor A-1331852, or Bruton's tyrosine kinase (BTK) inhibitor ibrutinib, which reduced pro-survival signals. We also tested the MCL-1 inhibitor in primary samples from 13 MCL patients, using CD40L-expressing feeder cells to model their microenvironmental support. Notably, all unstimulated primary MCL samples were very sensitive to S63845, but the CD40L stimulation attenuated their sensitivity. Mass cytometric analysis revealed that the stimulation likely conveyed protection by elevating BCL-XL and MCL-1. Accordingly, sensitivity of the CD40L-stimulated cells to S63845 was substantially restored by co-treatment with venetoclax, the BCL-XL-specific inhibitor or ibrutinib. Overall, our findings indicate that MCL-1 is very important for survival of MCL cells and that the MCL-1 inhibitor, both alone and together with ibrutinib, venetoclax or a BCL-XL inhibitor, offers promise for novel improved MCL therapies.
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68
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The evolving role of translocation t(11;14) in the biology, prognosis, and management of multiple myeloma. Blood Rev 2019; 41:100643. [PMID: 31818702 DOI: 10.1016/j.blre.2019.100643] [Citation(s) in RCA: 18] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/08/2019] [Revised: 11/15/2019] [Accepted: 11/22/2019] [Indexed: 02/07/2023]
Abstract
Cytogenetic changes in multiple myeloma (MM) have emerged as one of the most important prognostic factors. Translocations of chromosomes 4 and 14 [t(4;14)], chromosomes 14 and 16 [t(14;16)] and deletion of chromosome 17p [del(17p)] have been incorporated in the Revised International Staging System as a measure of adverse disease biology. Ongoing research is unveiling a complex genomic landscape in MM, with new cytogenetic abnormalities important for prognosis identified and the significance of known cytogenetic changes revisited. In studies conducted before the novel agent era, t(11;14) was shown to carry standard risk for patients with MM. Findings from more recent retrospective reviews have shown that t(11;14) is associated with intermediate outcomes in patients treated with novel agents as compared with patients who have standard- or high-risk cytogenetic aberrations. MM cells with t(11;14) have a unique biology, with relatively higher expression of the antiapoptotic protein BCL2 and lower expression of MCL1, in contrast to MM cells without this translocation. Translocation t(11;14) has emerged as the first predictive marker in MM, indicating susceptibility to BCL2 inhibition. Future studies will be needed to explore if the combination of novel agents with BCL2 inhibitors can improve the prognosis of patients with t(11;14). In this article, current data on the evolving role of t(11;14) in the biology, prognosis, and treatment of MM are reviewed.
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69
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Lu X, Liu YC, Orvig C, Liang H, Chen ZF. Discovery of β-carboline copper(II) complexes as Mcl-1 inhibitor and in vitro and in vivo activity in cancer models. Eur J Med Chem 2019; 181:111567. [DOI: 10.1016/j.ejmech.2019.111567] [Citation(s) in RCA: 12] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/23/2019] [Revised: 07/26/2019] [Accepted: 07/27/2019] [Indexed: 10/26/2022]
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Ishizawa K, Yanai T. Hematopoietic Stem Cell Transplantation and Brentuximab Vedotin for Patients with Relapsed or Refractory Hodgkin Lymphoma and Systemic Anaplastic Large-Cell Lymphoma. Adv Ther 2019; 36:2679-2696. [PMID: 31392578 PMCID: PMC6822829 DOI: 10.1007/s12325-019-01046-w] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/05/2019] [Indexed: 02/02/2023]
Abstract
Brentuximab vedotin (BV) is an antibody-drug conjugate that has demonstrated effectiveness as a monotherapy for patients with relapsed or refractory Hodgkin lymphoma and systemic anaplastic large-cell lymphoma via several clinical trials. Salvage chemotherapy followed by autologous or allogeneic hematopoietic stem cell transplantation (HSCT) has been performed as a second- or later-line regimen for improving the survival of patients with lymphoma. In particular, the effectiveness of autologous HSCT and the importance of achieving a complete response prior to autologous HSCT are established in Hodgkin lymphoma. Several clinical trials have reported that salvage chemotherapy followed by autologous HSCT showed high response rates, although significant treatment-related hematological toxicity was observed. In the present article, we review clinical reports for assessing the efficacy and safety of relatively less toxic BV as a bridging therapy before HSCT or as a consolidation therapy post-HSCT in patients with relapsed or refractory Hodgkin lymphoma or systemic anaplastic large-cell lymphoma. Generally, the reported BV regimens seem to be effective and well tolerated in such patients, and no significant influence of BV treatment is noted on hematopoietic stem cell harvest before HSCT. Large-scale clinical studies and long-term follow-up are expected to establish the safety and efficacy of these regimens.Funding: Takeda Pharmaceutical Co., Ltd., Tokyo, Japan.
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Affiliation(s)
- Kenichi Ishizawa
- Division of Hematology and Cell Therapy, Department of Third Internal Medicine, Yamagata University Faculty of Medicine, Yamagata, Japan
| | - Tomoko Yanai
- Japan Medical Affairs, Japan Oncology Business Unit, Takeda Pharmaceutical Company Limited, Tokyo, Japan.
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71
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Importance of Hypericin-Bcl2 interactions for biological effects at subcellular levels. Photodiagnosis Photodyn Ther 2019; 28:38-52. [PMID: 31430575 DOI: 10.1016/j.pdpdt.2019.08.016] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/15/2019] [Revised: 07/18/2019] [Accepted: 08/12/2019] [Indexed: 02/06/2023]
Abstract
Hypericin (Hyp) is a naturally occurring compound used as photosensitizer in photodynamic therapy and diagnosis. Recently, we have shown that Hyp presence alone, without illumination, resulted in substantial biological effects at several sub-cellular levels. Hyp induced changes in cellular ultrastructure, mitochondria function and metabolism, and distribution of Bcl2 proteins in malignant and non-malignant cells. The molecular mechanisms that underlie Hyp light-independent effects are still elusive. We have hypothesized that Bcl2-Hyp interactions might be one possible mechanism. We performed molecular docking studies to determine the Hyp-Bcl2 interaction profile. Based on the interaction profiles small Bcl2 peptide segments were selected for further study. We designed small peptides corresponding to Bcl2 BH3 and BH1 domains and tested the binding of Hyp and Bcl2 known inhibitor, ABT263, to the peptides in computer modeling and in vitro binding studies. We employed endogenous tryptophan and tyrosine in the BH3 and BH1 peptides, respectively, and their fluorescent properties to show interaction with Hyp and ABT263. Overall, our results indicate that Hyp can interact with Bcl2 protein at its BH3-BH1 hydrophobic groove, and this interaction may trigger changes in intracellular distribution of Bcl2 proteins. In addition, our computer modeling results suggest that Hyp also interacts with other anti-apoptotic members of Bcl2 family similar to the known BH3 mimetics. Our findings are novel and might contribute to understanding Hyp light-independent effects. In addition, they may substantiate the therapeutic use of Hyp as a BH3 mimetic molecule to enhance other cancer treatments.
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72
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Algarín EM, Díaz-Tejedor A, Mogollón P, Hernández-García S, Corchete LA, San-Segundo L, Martín-Sánchez M, González-Méndez L, Schoumacher M, Banquet S, Kraus-Berthier L, Kloos I, Derreal A, Halilovic E, Maacke H, Gutiérrez NC, Mateos MV, Paíno T, Garayoa M, Ocio EM. Preclinical evaluation of the simultaneous inhibition of MCL-1 and BCL-2 with the combination of S63845 and venetoclax in multiple myeloma. Haematologica 2019; 105:e116-e120. [PMID: 31320555 DOI: 10.3324/haematol.2018.212308] [Citation(s) in RCA: 24] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/26/2022] Open
Affiliation(s)
- Esperanza M Algarín
- University Hospital of Salamanca (IBSAL)-Cancer Research Center (IBMCC-CSIC-USAL), Salamanca, Spain
| | - Andrea Díaz-Tejedor
- University Hospital of Salamanca (IBSAL)-Cancer Research Center (IBMCC-CSIC-USAL), Salamanca, Spain
| | - Pedro Mogollón
- University Hospital of Salamanca (IBSAL)-Cancer Research Center (IBMCC-CSIC-USAL), Salamanca, Spain
| | - Susana Hernández-García
- University Hospital of Salamanca (IBSAL)-Cancer Research Center (IBMCC-CSIC-USAL), Salamanca, Spain
| | - Luis A Corchete
- University Hospital of Salamanca (IBSAL)-Cancer Research Center (IBMCC-CSIC-USAL), Salamanca, Spain
| | - Laura San-Segundo
- University Hospital of Salamanca (IBSAL)-Cancer Research Center (IBMCC-CSIC-USAL), Salamanca, Spain
| | | | - Lorena González-Méndez
- University Hospital of Salamanca (IBSAL)-Cancer Research Center (IBMCC-CSIC-USAL), Salamanca, Spain
| | | | | | | | - Ioana Kloos
- Institut de Recherches Servier, Suresnes, France
| | - Alix Derreal
- Institut de Recherches Servier, Suresnes, France
| | - Ensar Halilovic
- Novartis Institutes for Biomedical Research, Cambridge, MA, USA
| | - Heiko Maacke
- Novartis Institutes for Biomedical Research, Basel, Switzerland
| | - Norma C Gutiérrez
- University Hospital of Salamanca (IBSAL)-Cancer Research Center (IBMCC-CSIC-USAL), Salamanca, Spain
| | - María-Victoria Mateos
- University Hospital of Salamanca (IBSAL)-Cancer Research Center (IBMCC-CSIC-USAL), Salamanca, Spain
| | - Teresa Paíno
- University Hospital of Salamanca (IBSAL)-Cancer Research Center (IBMCC-CSIC-USAL), Salamanca, Spain
| | - Mercedes Garayoa
- University Hospital of Salamanca (IBSAL)-Cancer Research Center (IBMCC-CSIC-USAL), Salamanca, Spain
| | - Enrique M Ocio
- University Hospital of Salamanca (IBSAL)-Cancer Research Center (IBMCC-CSIC-USAL), Salamanca, Spain .,University Hospital Marqués de Valdecilla (IDIVAL); University of Cantabria, Santander, Spain
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73
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Mitochondria as playmakers of apoptosis, autophagy and senescence. Semin Cell Dev Biol 2019; 98:139-153. [PMID: 31154010 DOI: 10.1016/j.semcdb.2019.05.022] [Citation(s) in RCA: 261] [Impact Index Per Article: 52.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/30/2019] [Revised: 05/21/2019] [Accepted: 05/22/2019] [Indexed: 12/16/2022]
Abstract
Mitochondria are the key energy-producing organelles and cellular source of reactive species. They are responsible for managing cell life and death by a balanced homeostasis passing through a network of structures, regulated principally via fission and fusion. Herein we discuss about the most advanced findings considering mitochondria as dynamic biophysical systems playing compelling roles in the regulation of energy metabolism in both physiologic and pathologic processes controlling cell death and survival. Precisely, we focus on the mitochondrial commitment to the onset, maintenance and counteraction of apoptosis, autophagy and senescence in the bioenergetic reprogramming of cancer cells. In this context, looking for a pharmacological manipulation of cell death processes as a successful route for future targeted therapies, there is major biotechnological challenge in underlining the location, function and molecular mechanism of mitochondrial proteins. Based on the critical role of mitochondrial functions for cellular health, a better knowledge of the main molecular players in mitochondria disfunction could be decisive for the therapeutical control of degenerative diseases, including cancer.
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74
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Lu Y, Zhong L, Jiang Z, Pan H, Zhang Y, Zhu G, Bai L, Tong R, Shi J, Duan X. Cationic micelle-based siRNA delivery for efficient colon cancer gene therapy. NANOSCALE RESEARCH LETTERS 2019; 14:193. [PMID: 31165329 PMCID: PMC6548891 DOI: 10.1186/s11671-019-2985-z] [Citation(s) in RCA: 19] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/30/2019] [Accepted: 04/17/2019] [Indexed: 02/06/2023]
Abstract
Small interfering RNA (siRNA)-based gene therapy has provided an alternative strategy for cancer therapy. One of the key components within gene therapy process is the delivery system. As a novel non-viral gene vector, DMP, prepared by modifying mPEG-PCL micelle with cationic DOTAP lipid, has been prepared and successfully applied in plasmid DNA-based colon cancer gene therapy study. However, its potential in siRNA delivery is unknown. In this study, the preparation process of DMP was optimized and the anti-cancer efficacies of the DMP/siMcl1 and DMP/siBcl-xl complexes were studied on a mouse colon cancer model. Our results demonstrated that DMP cationic micelle-delivered siRNAs could effectively inhibit the growth of C26 colon cancer cells in vitro. Meanwhile, intratumoral administration of DMP/siMcl1 and DMP/siBcl-xl complexes obviously suppressed subcutaneous tumor model in vivo. These results suggest the DMP/siRNA complex to be a potential candidate for cancer gene therapy.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yongping Lu
- Pharmacy College, Chengdu university of Traditional Chinese Medicine and The Ministry of Education Key Laboratory of Standardization of Chinese Herbal Medicines of Ministry, State Key Laboratory Breeding Base of Systematic research, development and Utilization of Chinese Medicine Resources, Chengdu, 611137 Sichuan China
| | - Lei Zhong
- Department of Pharmacy, Sichuan Academy of Medical Sciences & Sichuan Provincial People’s Hospital, Personalized Drug Therapy Key Laboratory of Sichuan Province, School of Medicine, University of Electronic Science and Technology of China, Chengdu, 610072 China
| | - Zhongliang Jiang
- Sylvester Comprehensive Cancer Center University of Miami, Miami, USA
| | - Haixia Pan
- Sichuan Academy of Medical Sciences & Sichuan Provincial People’s Hospital, Chengdu, 610072 China
| | - Yuanfa Zhang
- State Key Laboratory of Biotherapy and Cancer Center, West China Hospital, West China Medical School, Sichuan University, Chengdu, People’s Republic of China
| | - Guonian Zhu
- State Key Laboratory of Biotherapy and Cancer Center, West China Hospital, West China Medical School, Sichuan University, Chengdu, People’s Republic of China
| | - Lan Bai
- Department of Pharmacy, Sichuan Academy of Medical Sciences & Sichuan Provincial People’s Hospital, Personalized Drug Therapy Key Laboratory of Sichuan Province, School of Medicine, University of Electronic Science and Technology of China, Chengdu, 610072 China
| | - Rongsheng Tong
- Department of Pharmacy, Sichuan Academy of Medical Sciences & Sichuan Provincial People’s Hospital, Personalized Drug Therapy Key Laboratory of Sichuan Province, School of Medicine, University of Electronic Science and Technology of China, Chengdu, 610072 China
| | - Jianyou Shi
- Department of Pharmacy, Sichuan Academy of Medical Sciences & Sichuan Provincial People’s Hospital, Personalized Drug Therapy Key Laboratory of Sichuan Province, School of Medicine, University of Electronic Science and Technology of China, Chengdu, 610072 China
| | - Xingmei Duan
- Department of Pharmacy, Sichuan Academy of Medical Sciences & Sichuan Provincial People’s Hospital, Personalized Drug Therapy Key Laboratory of Sichuan Province, School of Medicine, University of Electronic Science and Technology of China, Chengdu, 610072 China
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75
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Giuliani N, Accardi F, Marchica V, Dalla Palma B, Storti P, Toscani D, Vicario E, Malavasi F. Novel targets for the treatment of relapsing multiple myeloma. Expert Rev Hematol 2019; 12:481-496. [PMID: 31125526 DOI: 10.1080/17474086.2019.1624158] [Citation(s) in RCA: 19] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/23/2023]
Abstract
Introduction: Multiple myeloma (MM) is characterized by the high tendency to relapse and develop drug resistance. Areas covered: This review focused on the main novel targets identified to design drugs for the treatment of relapsing MM patients. CD38 and SLAMF7 are the main surface molecules leading to the development of monoclonal antibodies (mAbs) recently approved for the treatment of relapsing MM patients. B cell maturation antigen (BCMA) is a suitable target for antibody-drug conjugates, bispecific T cell engager mAbs and Chimeric Antigen Receptor (CAR)-T cells. Moreover, the programmed cell death protein 1 (PD)-1/PD-Ligand (PD-L1) expression profile by MM cells and their microenvironment and the use of immune checkpoints inhibitors in MM patients are reported. Finally, the role of histone deacetylase (HDAC), B cell lymphoma (BCL)-2 family proteins and the nuclear transport protein exportin 1 (XPO1) as novel targets are also underlined. The clinical results of the new inhibitors in relapsing MM patients are discussed. Expert opinion: CD38, SLAMF7, and BCMA are the main targets for different immunotherapeutic approaches. Selective inhibitors of HDAC6, BCL-2, and XPO1 are new promising compounds under clinical investigation in relapsing MM patients.
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Affiliation(s)
- Nicola Giuliani
- a Department of Medicine and Surgery , University of Parma , Parma , Italy
| | - Fabrizio Accardi
- a Department of Medicine and Surgery , University of Parma , Parma , Italy
| | - Valentina Marchica
- a Department of Medicine and Surgery , University of Parma , Parma , Italy
| | | | - Paola Storti
- a Department of Medicine and Surgery , University of Parma , Parma , Italy
| | - Denise Toscani
- a Department of Medicine and Surgery , University of Parma , Parma , Italy
| | - Emanuela Vicario
- a Department of Medicine and Surgery , University of Parma , Parma , Italy
| | - Fabio Malavasi
- b Department of Medical Science , University of Turin , Turin , Italy
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76
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Structures of BCL-2 in complex with venetoclax reveal the molecular basis of resistance mutations. Nat Commun 2019; 10:2385. [PMID: 31160589 PMCID: PMC6547681 DOI: 10.1038/s41467-019-10363-1] [Citation(s) in RCA: 123] [Impact Index Per Article: 24.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/28/2019] [Accepted: 05/08/2019] [Indexed: 12/16/2022] Open
Abstract
Venetoclax is a first-in-class cancer therapy that interacts with the cellular apoptotic machinery promoting apoptosis. Treatment of patients suffering chronic lymphocytic leukaemia with this BCL-2 antagonist has revealed emergence of a drug-selected BCL-2 mutation (G101V) in some patients failing therapy. To understand the molecular basis of this acquired resistance we describe the crystal structures of venetoclax bound to both BCL-2 and the G101V mutant. The pose of venetoclax in its binding site on BCL-2 reveals small but unexpected differences as compared to published structures of complexes with venetoclax analogues. The G101V mutant complex structure and mutant binding assays reveal that resistance is acquired by a knock-on effect of V101 on an adjacent residue, E152, with venetoclax binding restored by a E152A mutation. This provides a framework for considering analogues of venetoclax that might be effective in combating this mutation. The BCL-2 mutation G101V reduces venetoclax affinity and confers drug resistance in patients with chronic lymphocytic leukaemia. Here, the authors present crystal structures and biochemical analyses of venetoclax bound to BCL-2 and the G101V mutant, revealing the structural basis for venetoclax resistance.
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77
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Barwick BG, Gupta VA, Vertino PM, Boise LH. Cell of Origin and Genetic Alterations in the Pathogenesis of Multiple Myeloma. Front Immunol 2019; 10:1121. [PMID: 31231360 PMCID: PMC6558388 DOI: 10.3389/fimmu.2019.01121] [Citation(s) in RCA: 89] [Impact Index Per Article: 17.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/06/2019] [Accepted: 05/02/2019] [Indexed: 12/22/2022] Open
Abstract
B cell activation and differentiation yields plasma cells with high affinity antibodies to a given antigen in a time-frame that allows for host protection. Although the end product is most commonly humoral immunity, the rapid proliferation and somatic mutation of the B cell receptor also results in oncogenic mutations that cause B cell malignancies including plasma cell neoplasms such as multiple myeloma. Myeloma is the second most common hematological malignancy and results in over 100,000 deaths per year worldwide. The genetic alterations that occur in the germinal center, however, are not sufficient to cause myeloma, but rather impart cell proliferation potential on plasma cells, which are normally non-dividing. This pre-malignant state, referred to as monoclonal gammopathy of undetermined significance or MGUS, provides the opportunity for further genetic and epigenetic alterations eventually resulting in a progressive disease that becomes symptomatic. In this review, we will provide a brief history of clonal gammopathies and detail how some of the key discoveries were interwoven with the study of plasma cells. We will also review the genetic and epigenetic alterations discovered over the past 25 years, how these are instrumental to myeloma pathogenesis, and what these events teach us about myeloma and plasma cell biology. These data will be placed in the context of normal B cell development and differentiation and we will discuss how understanding the biology of plasma cells can lead to more effective therapies targeting multiple myeloma.
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Affiliation(s)
- Benjamin G. Barwick
- Department of Hematology and Medical Oncology, Emory University School of Medicine, Atlanta, GA, United States
- Winship Cancer Institute, Emory University, Atlanta, GA, United States
| | - Vikas A. Gupta
- Department of Hematology and Medical Oncology, Emory University School of Medicine, Atlanta, GA, United States
- Winship Cancer Institute, Emory University, Atlanta, GA, United States
| | - Paula M. Vertino
- Department of Biomedical Genetics and the Wilmot Cancer Institute, University of Rochester Medical Center, Rochester, NY, United States
| | - Lawrence H. Boise
- Department of Hematology and Medical Oncology, Emory University School of Medicine, Atlanta, GA, United States
- Winship Cancer Institute, Emory University, Atlanta, GA, United States
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78
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Lee EF, Harris TJ, Tran S, Evangelista M, Arulananda S, John T, Ramnac C, Hobbs C, Zhu H, Gunasingh G, Segal D, Behren A, Cebon J, Dobrovic A, Mariadason JM, Strasser A, Rohrbeck L, Haass NK, Herold MJ, Fairlie WD. BCL-XL and MCL-1 are the key BCL-2 family proteins in melanoma cell survival. Cell Death Dis 2019; 10:342. [PMID: 31019203 PMCID: PMC6482196 DOI: 10.1038/s41419-019-1568-3] [Citation(s) in RCA: 109] [Impact Index Per Article: 21.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/12/2018] [Revised: 02/28/2019] [Accepted: 04/02/2019] [Indexed: 12/17/2022]
Abstract
Malignant melanoma is one of the most difficult cancers to treat due to its resistance to chemotherapy. Despite recent successes with BRAF inhibitors and immune checkpoint inhibitors, many patients do not respond or become resistant to these drugs. Hence, alternative treatments are still required. Due to the importance of the BCL-2-regulated apoptosis pathway in cancer development and drug resistance, it is of interest to establish which proteins are most important for melanoma cell survival, though the outcomes of previous studies have been conflicting. To conclusively address this question, we tested a panel of established and early passage patient-derived cell lines against several BH3-mimetic drugs designed to target individual or subsets of pro-survival BCL-2 proteins, alone and in combination, in both 2D and 3D cell cultures. None of the drugs demonstrated significant activity as single agents, though combinations targeting MCL-1 plus BCL-XL, and to a lesser extent BCL-2, showed considerable synergistic killing activity that was elicited via both BAX and BAK. Genetic deletion of BFL-1 in cell lines that express it at relatively high levels only had minor impact on BH3-mimetic drug sensitivity, suggesting it is not a critical pro-survival protein in melanoma. Combinations of MCL-1 inhibitors with BRAF inhibitors also caused only minimal additional melanoma cell killing over each drug alone, whilst combinations with the proteasome inhibitor bortezomib was more effective in multiple cell lines. Our data show for the first time that therapies targeting specific combinations of BCL-2 pro-survival proteins, namely MCL-1 plus BCL-XL and MCL-1 plus BCL-2, could have significant benefit for the treatment of melanoma.
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Affiliation(s)
- Erinna F Lee
- La Trobe Institute for Molecular Science, La Trobe University, Melbourne, VIC, 3086, Australia. .,Olivia Newton-John Cancer Research Institute, Heidelberg, VIC, 3084, Australia. .,School of Cancer Medicine, La Trobe University, Melbourne, VIC, 3086, Australia.
| | - Tiffany J Harris
- Olivia Newton-John Cancer Research Institute, Heidelberg, VIC, 3084, Australia
| | - Sharon Tran
- Olivia Newton-John Cancer Research Institute, Heidelberg, VIC, 3084, Australia.,School of Cancer Medicine, La Trobe University, Melbourne, VIC, 3086, Australia
| | - Marco Evangelista
- Olivia Newton-John Cancer Research Institute, Heidelberg, VIC, 3084, Australia
| | - Surein Arulananda
- Olivia Newton-John Cancer Research Institute, Heidelberg, VIC, 3084, Australia.,School of Cancer Medicine, La Trobe University, Melbourne, VIC, 3086, Australia
| | - Thomas John
- Olivia Newton-John Cancer Research Institute, Heidelberg, VIC, 3084, Australia.,School of Cancer Medicine, La Trobe University, Melbourne, VIC, 3086, Australia
| | - Celeste Ramnac
- Olivia Newton-John Cancer Research Institute, Heidelberg, VIC, 3084, Australia.,School of Cancer Medicine, La Trobe University, Melbourne, VIC, 3086, Australia
| | - Chloe Hobbs
- Olivia Newton-John Cancer Research Institute, Heidelberg, VIC, 3084, Australia.,School of Cancer Medicine, La Trobe University, Melbourne, VIC, 3086, Australia
| | - Haoran Zhu
- The Walter and Eliza Hall Institute of Medical Research, Parkville, VIC, 3052, Australia.,Peter MacCallum Cancer Centre, Melbourne, VIC, 3000, Australia
| | - Gency Gunasingh
- The University of Queensland, The University of Queensland Diamantina Institute, Translational Research Institute, Woolloongabba, Brisbane, QLD, 4102, Australia
| | - David Segal
- The Walter and Eliza Hall Institute of Medical Research, Parkville, VIC, 3052, Australia
| | - Andreas Behren
- Olivia Newton-John Cancer Research Institute, Heidelberg, VIC, 3084, Australia.,School of Cancer Medicine, La Trobe University, Melbourne, VIC, 3086, Australia
| | - Jonathan Cebon
- Olivia Newton-John Cancer Research Institute, Heidelberg, VIC, 3084, Australia.,School of Cancer Medicine, La Trobe University, Melbourne, VIC, 3086, Australia
| | - Alexander Dobrovic
- Olivia Newton-John Cancer Research Institute, Heidelberg, VIC, 3084, Australia.,School of Cancer Medicine, La Trobe University, Melbourne, VIC, 3086, Australia
| | - John M Mariadason
- Olivia Newton-John Cancer Research Institute, Heidelberg, VIC, 3084, Australia.,School of Cancer Medicine, La Trobe University, Melbourne, VIC, 3086, Australia
| | - Andreas Strasser
- The Walter and Eliza Hall Institute of Medical Research, Parkville, VIC, 3052, Australia.,Department of Medical Biology, University of Melbourne, Parkville, VIC, 3052, Australia
| | - Leona Rohrbeck
- The Walter and Eliza Hall Institute of Medical Research, Parkville, VIC, 3052, Australia.,Karolinska Institute, Stockholm, Sweden
| | - Nikolas K Haass
- The University of Queensland, The University of Queensland Diamantina Institute, Translational Research Institute, Woolloongabba, Brisbane, QLD, 4102, Australia
| | - Marco J Herold
- The Walter and Eliza Hall Institute of Medical Research, Parkville, VIC, 3052, Australia.,Department of Medical Biology, University of Melbourne, Parkville, VIC, 3052, Australia
| | - W Douglas Fairlie
- La Trobe Institute for Molecular Science, La Trobe University, Melbourne, VIC, 3086, Australia. .,Olivia Newton-John Cancer Research Institute, Heidelberg, VIC, 3084, Australia. .,School of Cancer Medicine, La Trobe University, Melbourne, VIC, 3086, Australia.
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79
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Schroeder MA, Fiala MA, Huselton E, Cardone MH, Jaeger S, Jean SR, Shea K, Ghobadi A, Wildes T, Stockerl-Goldstein KE, Vij R. A Phase I/II Trial of Carfilzomib, Pegylated Liposomal Doxorubicin, and Dexamethasone for the Treatment of Relapsed/Refractory Multiple Myeloma. Clin Cancer Res 2019; 25:3776-3783. [PMID: 30952640 DOI: 10.1158/1078-0432.ccr-18-1909] [Citation(s) in RCA: 13] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/18/2018] [Revised: 11/08/2018] [Accepted: 03/27/2019] [Indexed: 11/16/2022]
Abstract
PURPOSE Pegylated liposomal doxorubicin (PLD) combined with bortezomib is an effective salvage regimen for relapsed refractory multiple myeloma (RRMM). Carfilzomib, a second-generation proteasome inhibitor, has clinical efficacy even among bortezomib-refractory patients. PATIENTS AND METHODS We performed a phase I/II trial of carfilzomib, PLD, and dexamethasone (KDD) with the primary endpoints being safety and efficacy (NCT01246063). Twenty-three patients were enrolled in the phase I portion and the MTD of carfilzomib was determined to be 56 mg/m2 (days 1, 2, 8, 9, 15, and 16) when combined with PLD (30 mg/m2 on day 8) and dexamethasone (20 mg on days 1, 2, 8, 9, 15, and 16). Seventeen additional patients were enrolled in the phase II portion. RESULTS KDD was determined to be well tolerated with the only common grade 3/4 nonhematologic adverse events of infection. Grade 3/4 hematologic toxicity included lymphopenia (63%), thrombocytopenia (40%), anemia (40%), and neutropenia (28%). In the cohort of patients treated at the MTD, where median prior therapies were 2% and 42% were refractory to bortezomib, the overall response rate was 83% (20/24) with 54% (13/24) having a very good partial response or better. The median progression-free survival was 13.7 months (95% CI, 5.0-21.7). CONCLUSIONS This trial is the first to report outcomes using a triplet regimen of high-dose carfilzomib. KDD was well tolerated and appears efficacious in RRMM. Additional study is needed to more precisely determine patient outcomes with this regimen and its utility compared with other carfilzomib containing salvage regimens.
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Affiliation(s)
- Mark A Schroeder
- BMT and Leukemia Program, Washington University School of Medicine, St Louis, Missouri.
| | - Mark A Fiala
- BMT and Leukemia Program, Washington University School of Medicine, St Louis, Missouri
| | - Eric Huselton
- Hematology/Oncology Division, University of Rochester Medical Center, Rochester, New York
| | | | | | - Sae Rin Jean
- Eutropics Pharmaceuticals, Cambridge, Massachusetts
| | - Kathryn Shea
- Eutropics Pharmaceuticals, Cambridge, Massachusetts
| | - Armin Ghobadi
- BMT and Leukemia Program, Washington University School of Medicine, St Louis, Missouri
| | - Tanya Wildes
- BMT and Leukemia Program, Washington University School of Medicine, St Louis, Missouri
| | | | - Ravi Vij
- BMT and Leukemia Program, Washington University School of Medicine, St Louis, Missouri
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80
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BCL2 blockade overcomes MCL1 resistance in multiple myeloma. Leukemia 2019; 33:2098-2102. [PMID: 30816329 DOI: 10.1038/s41375-019-0421-0] [Citation(s) in RCA: 18] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/24/2018] [Revised: 02/03/2019] [Accepted: 02/07/2019] [Indexed: 11/08/2022]
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81
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Discovery of Mcl-1-specific inhibitor AZD5991 and preclinical activity in multiple myeloma and acute myeloid leukemia. Nat Commun 2018; 9:5341. [PMID: 30559424 PMCID: PMC6297231 DOI: 10.1038/s41467-018-07551-w] [Citation(s) in RCA: 322] [Impact Index Per Article: 53.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/15/2018] [Accepted: 11/09/2018] [Indexed: 02/04/2023] Open
Abstract
Mcl-1 is a member of the Bcl-2 family of proteins that promotes cell survival by preventing induction of apoptosis in many cancers. High expression of Mcl-1 causes tumorigenesis and resistance to anticancer therapies highlighting the potential of Mcl-1 inhibitors as anticancer drugs. Here, we describe AZD5991, a rationally designed macrocyclic molecule with high selectivity and affinity for Mcl-1 currently in clinical development. Our studies demonstrate that AZD5991 binds directly to Mcl-1 and induces rapid apoptosis in cancer cells, most notably myeloma and acute myeloid leukemia, by activating the Bak-dependent mitochondrial apoptotic pathway. AZD5991 shows potent antitumor activity in vivo with complete tumor regression in several models of multiple myeloma and acute myeloid leukemia after a single tolerated dose as monotherapy or in combination with bortezomib or venetoclax. Based on these promising data, a Phase I clinical trial has been launched for evaluation of AZD5991 in patients with hematological malignancies (NCT03218683).
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82
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Merino D, Kelly GL, Lessene G, Wei AH, Roberts AW, Strasser A. BH3-Mimetic Drugs: Blazing the Trail for New Cancer Medicines. Cancer Cell 2018; 34:879-891. [PMID: 30537511 DOI: 10.1016/j.ccell.2018.11.004] [Citation(s) in RCA: 214] [Impact Index Per Article: 35.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/05/2018] [Revised: 08/28/2018] [Accepted: 11/06/2018] [Indexed: 12/26/2022]
Abstract
Defects in apoptotic cell death can promote cancer and impair responses of malignant cells to anti-cancer therapy. Pro-survival BCL-2 proteins prevent apoptosis by keeping the cell death effectors, BAX and BAK, in check. The BH3-only proteins initiate apoptosis by neutralizing the pro-survival BCL-2 proteins. Structural analysis and medicinal chemistry led to the development of small-molecule drugs that mimic the function of the BH3-only proteins to kill cancer cells. The BCL-2 inhibitor venetoclax has been approved for treatment of refractory chronic lymphocytic leukemia and this drug and inhibitors of pro-survival MCL-1 and BCL-XL are being tested in diverse malignancies.
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MESH Headings
- Antineoplastic Agents/pharmacology
- Apoptosis/drug effects
- Biomimetic Materials/pharmacology
- Bridged Bicyclo Compounds, Heterocyclic/pharmacology
- Humans
- Leukemia, Lymphocytic, Chronic, B-Cell/drug therapy
- Leukemia, Lymphocytic, Chronic, B-Cell/metabolism
- Leukemia, Lymphocytic, Chronic, B-Cell/pathology
- Myeloid Cell Leukemia Sequence 1 Protein/antagonists & inhibitors
- Myeloid Cell Leukemia Sequence 1 Protein/metabolism
- Proto-Oncogene Proteins c-bcl-2/antagonists & inhibitors
- Proto-Oncogene Proteins c-bcl-2/metabolism
- Sulfonamides/pharmacology
- bcl-X Protein/antagonists & inhibitors
- bcl-X Protein/metabolism
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Affiliation(s)
- Delphine Merino
- The Walter and Eliza Hall Institute of Medical Research, Parkville, VIC 3052, Australia; Olivia Newton-John Cancer Research Institute, Heidelberg, VIC 3084, Australia; School of Cancer Medicine, La Trobe University, Melbourne, VIC 3086, Australia; Department of Medical Biology, The University of Melbourne, Parkville, VIC 3010, Australia
| | - Gemma L Kelly
- The Walter and Eliza Hall Institute of Medical Research, Parkville, VIC 3052, Australia; Department of Medical Biology, The University of Melbourne, Parkville, VIC 3010, Australia
| | - Guillaume Lessene
- The Walter and Eliza Hall Institute of Medical Research, Parkville, VIC 3052, Australia; Department of Medical Biology, The University of Melbourne, Parkville, VIC 3010, Australia; Department of Pharmacology and Therapeutics, The University of Melbourne, Parkville, VIC 3010, Australia
| | - Andrew H Wei
- Department of Haematology, Alfred Hospital and Monash University Melbourne, Melbourne, VIC 3004, Australia
| | - Andrew W Roberts
- The Walter and Eliza Hall Institute of Medical Research, Parkville, VIC 3052, Australia; Department of Medical Biology, The University of Melbourne, Parkville, VIC 3010, Australia; Clinical Haematology, Peter MacCallum Cancer Centre and Royal Melbourne Hospital, Melbourne, VIC 3000, Australia; Victorian Comprehensive Cancer Centre, Melbourne, VIC 3000, Australia
| | - Andreas Strasser
- The Walter and Eliza Hall Institute of Medical Research, Parkville, VIC 3052, Australia; Department of Medical Biology, The University of Melbourne, Parkville, VIC 3010, Australia.
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83
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Blombery P, Anderson MA, Gong JN, Thijssen R, Birkinshaw RW, Thompson ER, Teh CE, Nguyen T, Xu Z, Flensburg C, Lew TE, Majewski IJ, Gray DHD, Westerman DA, Tam CS, Seymour JF, Czabotar PE, Huang DCS, Roberts AW. Acquisition of the Recurrent Gly101Val Mutation in BCL2 Confers Resistance to Venetoclax in Patients with Progressive Chronic Lymphocytic Leukemia. Cancer Discov 2018; 9:342-353. [PMID: 30514704 DOI: 10.1158/2159-8290.cd-18-1119] [Citation(s) in RCA: 277] [Impact Index Per Article: 46.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/23/2018] [Revised: 11/27/2018] [Accepted: 11/28/2018] [Indexed: 11/16/2022]
Abstract
The BCL2 inhibitor venetoclax induces high rates of durable remission in patients with previously treated chronic lymphocytic leukemia (CLL). However, despite continuous daily treatment, leukemia recurs in most patients. To investigate the mechanisms of secondary resistance, we analyzed paired pre-venetoclax and progression samples from 15 patients with CLL progression enrolled on venetoclax clinical trials. The novel Gly101Val mutation in BCL2 was identified at progression in 7 patients, but not at study entry. It was first detectable after 19 to 42 months of therapy, and its emergence anticipated clinical disease progression by many months. Gly101Val reduces the affinity of BCL2 for venetoclax by ∼180-fold in surface plasmon resonance assays, thereby preventing the drug from displacing proapoptotic mediators from BCL2 in cells and conferring acquired resistance in cell lines and primary patient cells. This mutation provides new insights into the pathobiology of venetoclax resistance and provides a potential biomarker of impending clinical relapse. SIGNIFICANCE: Why CLL recurs in patients who achieve remission with the BCL2 inhibitor venetoclax has been unknown. We provide the first description of an acquired point mutation in BCL2 arising recurrently and exclusively in venetoclax-treated patients. The mutation reduces venetoclax binding and is sufficient to confer resistance.See related commentary by Thangavadivel and Byrd, p. 320.This article is highlighted in the In This Issue feature, p. 305.
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Affiliation(s)
- Piers Blombery
- Department of Pathology, Peter MacCallum Cancer Centre, Melbourne, Victoria, Australia. .,Clinical Haematology, Peter MacCallum Cancer Centre and Royal Melbourne Hospital, Melbourne, Victoria, Australia.,Sir Peter MacCallum Department of Oncology, University of Melbourne, Melbourne, Victoria, Australia
| | - Mary Ann Anderson
- Clinical Haematology, Peter MacCallum Cancer Centre and Royal Melbourne Hospital, Melbourne, Victoria, Australia.,The Walter and Eliza Hall Institute of Medical Research, Parkville, Victoria, Australia.,Department of Medical Biology, University of Melbourne, Melbourne, Victoria, Australia
| | - Jia-Nan Gong
- The Walter and Eliza Hall Institute of Medical Research, Parkville, Victoria, Australia.,Department of Medical Biology, University of Melbourne, Melbourne, Victoria, Australia
| | - Rachel Thijssen
- The Walter and Eliza Hall Institute of Medical Research, Parkville, Victoria, Australia.,Department of Medical Biology, University of Melbourne, Melbourne, Victoria, Australia
| | - Richard W Birkinshaw
- The Walter and Eliza Hall Institute of Medical Research, Parkville, Victoria, Australia.,Department of Medical Biology, University of Melbourne, Melbourne, Victoria, Australia
| | - Ella R Thompson
- Department of Pathology, Peter MacCallum Cancer Centre, Melbourne, Victoria, Australia.,Sir Peter MacCallum Department of Oncology, University of Melbourne, Melbourne, Victoria, Australia
| | - Charis E Teh
- The Walter and Eliza Hall Institute of Medical Research, Parkville, Victoria, Australia.,Department of Medical Biology, University of Melbourne, Melbourne, Victoria, Australia
| | - Tamia Nguyen
- Department of Pathology, Peter MacCallum Cancer Centre, Melbourne, Victoria, Australia.,Sir Peter MacCallum Department of Oncology, University of Melbourne, Melbourne, Victoria, Australia
| | - Zhen Xu
- The Walter and Eliza Hall Institute of Medical Research, Parkville, Victoria, Australia
| | - Christoffer Flensburg
- The Walter and Eliza Hall Institute of Medical Research, Parkville, Victoria, Australia
| | - Thomas E Lew
- The Walter and Eliza Hall Institute of Medical Research, Parkville, Victoria, Australia
| | - Ian J Majewski
- The Walter and Eliza Hall Institute of Medical Research, Parkville, Victoria, Australia
| | - Daniel H D Gray
- The Walter and Eliza Hall Institute of Medical Research, Parkville, Victoria, Australia.,Department of Medical Biology, University of Melbourne, Melbourne, Victoria, Australia
| | - David A Westerman
- Department of Pathology, Peter MacCallum Cancer Centre, Melbourne, Victoria, Australia.,Clinical Haematology, Peter MacCallum Cancer Centre and Royal Melbourne Hospital, Melbourne, Victoria, Australia.,Sir Peter MacCallum Department of Oncology, University of Melbourne, Melbourne, Victoria, Australia
| | - Constantine S Tam
- Clinical Haematology, Peter MacCallum Cancer Centre and Royal Melbourne Hospital, Melbourne, Victoria, Australia.,Sir Peter MacCallum Department of Oncology, University of Melbourne, Melbourne, Victoria, Australia
| | - John F Seymour
- Clinical Haematology, Peter MacCallum Cancer Centre and Royal Melbourne Hospital, Melbourne, Victoria, Australia.,Sir Peter MacCallum Department of Oncology, University of Melbourne, Melbourne, Victoria, Australia
| | - Peter E Czabotar
- The Walter and Eliza Hall Institute of Medical Research, Parkville, Victoria, Australia.,Department of Medical Biology, University of Melbourne, Melbourne, Victoria, Australia
| | - David C S Huang
- The Walter and Eliza Hall Institute of Medical Research, Parkville, Victoria, Australia.,Department of Medical Biology, University of Melbourne, Melbourne, Victoria, Australia
| | - Andrew W Roberts
- Clinical Haematology, Peter MacCallum Cancer Centre and Royal Melbourne Hospital, Melbourne, Victoria, Australia. .,The Walter and Eliza Hall Institute of Medical Research, Parkville, Victoria, Australia.,Department of Medical Biology, University of Melbourne, Melbourne, Victoria, Australia.,Centre for Cancer Research, University of Melbourne, Melbourne, Victoria, Australia.,Victorian Comprehensive Cancer Centre, Melbourne, Victoria, Australia
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84
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Slomp A, Peperzak V. Role and Regulation of Pro-survival BCL-2 Proteins in Multiple Myeloma. Front Oncol 2018; 8:533. [PMID: 30524962 PMCID: PMC6256118 DOI: 10.3389/fonc.2018.00533] [Citation(s) in RCA: 38] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/07/2018] [Accepted: 10/30/2018] [Indexed: 12/12/2022] Open
Abstract
Apoptosis plays a key role in protection against genomic instability and maintaining tissue homeostasis, and also shapes humoral immune responses. During generation of an antibody response, multiple rounds of B-cell expansion and selection take place in germinal centers (GC) before high antigen affinity memory B-cells and long-lived plasma cells (PC) are produced. These processes are tightly regulated by the intrinsic apoptosis pathway, and malignant transformation throughout and following the GC reaction is often characterized by apoptosis resistance. Expression of pro-survival BCL-2 family protein MCL-1 is essential for survival of malignant PC in multiple myeloma (MM). In addition, BCL-2 and BCL-XL contribute to apoptosis resistance. MCL-1, BCL-2, and BCL-XL expression is induced and maintained by signals from the bone marrow microenvironment, but overexpression can also result from genetic lesions. Since MM PC depend on these proteins for survival, inhibiting pro-survival BCL-2 proteins using novel and highly specific BH3-mimetic inhibitors is a promising strategy for treatment. This review addresses the role and regulation of pro-survival BCL-2 family proteins during healthy PC differentiation and in MM, as well as their potential as therapeutic targets.
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Affiliation(s)
- Anne Slomp
- Laboratory of Translational Immunology, University Medical Center Utrecht, Utrecht University, Utrecht, Netherlands
| | - Victor Peperzak
- Laboratory of Translational Immunology, University Medical Center Utrecht, Utrecht University, Utrecht, Netherlands
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85
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BH3-mimetic toolkit guides the respective use of BCL2 and MCL1 BH3-mimetics in myeloma treatment. Blood 2018; 132:2656-2669. [PMID: 30309889 DOI: 10.1182/blood-2018-03-836718] [Citation(s) in RCA: 51] [Impact Index Per Article: 8.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/02/2018] [Accepted: 09/28/2018] [Indexed: 02/07/2023] Open
Abstract
BH3 mimetics are promising drugs for hematologic malignancies that trigger cell death by promoting the release of proapoptotic BCL2 family members from antiapoptotic proteins. Multiple myeloma is considered to be a disease dependent mainly on MCL1 for survival, based mostly on studies using cell lines. We used a BH3-mimetic toolkit to study the dependency on BCL2, BCLXL, or MCL1 in malignant plasma cells from 60 patients. Dependencies were analyzed using an unbiased BH3 mimetics cell-death clustering by k-means. In the whole cohort of patients, BCL2 dependency was mostly found in the CCND1 subgroup (83%). Of note, MCL1 dependence significantly increased from 33% at diagnosis to 69% at relapse, suggesting a plasticity of the cellular dependency favoring MCL1 dependencies at relapse. In addition, 35% of overall patient samples showed codependencies on either BCL2/MCL1 or BCLXL/MCL1. Finally, we identified a group of patients not targeted by any of the BH3 mimetics, predominantly at diagnosis in patients not presenting the common recurrent translocations. Mechanistically, we demonstrated that BAK is crucial for cell death induced by MCL1 mimetic A1210477, according to the protection from cell death observed by BAK knock-down, as well as the complete and early disruption of MCL1/BAK complexes on A1210477 treatment. Interestingly, this complex was also dissociated in A1210477-resistant cells, but free BAK was simultaneously recaptured by BCLXL, supporting the role of BCLXL in A1210477 resistance. In conclusion, our study opens the way to rationally use venetoclax and/or MCL1 BH3 mimetics for clinical evaluation in myeloma at both diagnosis and relapse.
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86
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Caenepeel S, Brown SP, Belmontes B, Moody G, Keegan KS, Chui D, Whittington DA, Huang X, Poppe L, Cheng AC, Cardozo M, Houze J, Li Y, Lucas B, Paras NA, Wang X, Taygerly JP, Vimolratana M, Zancanella M, Zhu L, Cajulis E, Osgood T, Sun J, Damon L, Egan RK, Greninger P, McClanaghan JD, Gong J, Moujalled D, Pomilio G, Beltran P, Benes CH, Roberts AW, Huang DC, Wei A, Canon J, Coxon A, Hughes PE. AMG 176, a Selective MCL1 Inhibitor, is Effective in Hematological Cancer Models Alone and in Combination with Established Therapies. Cancer Discov 2018; 8:1582-1597. [DOI: 10.1158/2159-8290.cd-18-0387] [Citation(s) in RCA: 178] [Impact Index Per Article: 29.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/09/2018] [Revised: 08/29/2018] [Accepted: 09/24/2018] [Indexed: 11/16/2022]
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87
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IMiDs prime myeloma cells for daratumumab-mediated cytotoxicity through loss of Ikaros and Aiolos. Blood 2018; 132:2166-2178. [PMID: 30228232 DOI: 10.1182/blood-2018-05-850727] [Citation(s) in RCA: 62] [Impact Index Per Article: 10.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/11/2018] [Accepted: 09/11/2018] [Indexed: 12/25/2022] Open
Abstract
Recent studies have demonstrated that the immunomodulatory drugs (IMiDs) lead to the degradation of the transcription factors Ikaros and Aiolos. However, why their loss subsequently leads to multiple myeloma (MM) cell death remains unclear. Using CRISPR-Cas9 genome editing, we have deleted IKZF1/Ikaros and IKZF3/Aiolos in human MM cell lines to gain further insight into their downstream gene regulatory networks. Inactivation of either factor alone recapitulates the cell intrinsic action of the IMiDs, resulting in cell cycle arrest and induction of apoptosis. Furthermore, evaluation of the transcriptional changes resulting from their loss demonstrates striking overlap with lenalidomide treatment. This was not dependent on reduction of the IRF4-MYC "axis," as neither protein was consistently downregulated, despite cell death occurring, and overexpression of either factor failed to rescue for Ikaros loss. Importantly, Ikaros and Aiolos repress the expression of interferon-stimulated genes (ISGs), including CD38, and their loss led to the activation of an interferon-like response, contributing to MM cell death. Ikaros/Aiolos repressed CD38 expression through interaction with the nucleosome remodeling and deacetylase complex in MM. IMiD-induced loss of Ikaros or treatment with interferon resulted in an upregulation of CD38 surface expression on MM cells, priming for daratumumab-induced NK cell-mediated antibody-dependent cellular cytotoxicity. These results give further insight into the mechanism of action of the IMiDs and provide mechanistic rationale for combination with anti-CD38 monoclonal antibodies.
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88
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Humanized Mcl-1 mice enable accurate preclinical evaluation of MCL-1 inhibitors destined for clinical use. Blood 2018; 132:1573-1583. [PMID: 30139826 DOI: 10.1182/blood-2018-06-859405] [Citation(s) in RCA: 56] [Impact Index Per Article: 9.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/22/2018] [Accepted: 08/19/2018] [Indexed: 12/31/2022] Open
Abstract
Myeloid cell leukemia-1 (MCL-1) is a prosurvival B-cell lymphoma 2 (BCL-2) family member required for the sustained growth of many cancers. Recently, a highly specific MCL-1 inhibitor, S63845, showing sixfold higher affinity to human compared with mouse MCL-1, has been described. To accurately test efficacy and tolerability of this BH3-mimetic (BH3-only protein mimetic) drug in preclinical cancer models, we developed a humanized Mcl-1 (huMcl-1) mouse strain in which MCL-1 was replaced with its human homolog. huMcl-1 mice are phenotypically indistinguishable from wild-type mice but are more sensitive to the MCL-1 inhibitor S63845. Importantly, nontransformed cells and lymphomas from huMcl-1;Eµ-Myc mice are more sensitive to S63845 in vitro than their control counterparts. When huMcl-1;Eµ-Myc lymphoma cells were transplanted into huMcl-1 mice, treatment with S63845 alone or alongside cyclophosphamide led to long-term remission in ∼60% or almost 100% of mice, respectively. These results demonstrate the potential of our huMcl-1 mouse model for testing MCL-1 inhibitors, allowing precise predictions of efficacy and tolerability for clinical translation.
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89
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Zhang H, Li L, Chen Q, Li M, Feng J, Sun Y, Zhao R, Zhu Y, Lv Y, Zhu Z, Huang X, Xie W, Xiang W, Yao P. PGC1β regulates multiple myeloma tumor growth through LDHA-mediated glycolytic metabolism. Mol Oncol 2018; 12:1579-1595. [PMID: 30051603 PMCID: PMC6120252 DOI: 10.1002/1878-0261.12363] [Citation(s) in RCA: 21] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/03/2018] [Revised: 06/16/2018] [Accepted: 07/03/2018] [Indexed: 12/13/2022] Open
Abstract
Multiple myeloma (MM) is an incurable hematologic malignancy due to inevitable relapse and chemoresistance development. Our preliminary data show that MM cells express high levels of PGC1β and LDHA. In this study, we investigated the mechanism behind PGC1β‐mediated LDHA expression and its contribution to tumorigenesis, to aid in the development of novel therapeutic approaches for MM. Real‐time PCR and western blotting were first used to evaluate gene expression of PGC1β and LDHA in different MM cells, and then, luciferase reporter assay, chromatin immunoprecipitation, LDHA deletion report vectors, and siRNA techniques were used to investigate the mechanism underlying PGC1β‐induced LDHA expression. Furthermore, knockdown cell lines and lines stably overexpressing PGC1β or LDHA lentivirus were established to evaluate in vitro glycolysis metabolism, mitochondrial function, reactive oxygen species (ROS) formation, and cell proliferation. In addition, in vivo xenograft tumor development studies were performed to investigate the effect of PGC1β or LDHA expression on tumor growth and mouse survival. We found that PGC1β and LDHA are highly expressed in different MM cells and LDHA is upregulated by PGC1β through the PGC1β/RXRβ axis acting on the LDHA promoter. Overexpression of PGC1β or LDHA significantly potentiated glycolysis metabolism with increased cell proliferation and tumor growth. On the other hand, knockdown of PGC1β or LDHA largely suppressed glycolysis metabolism with increased ROS formation and apoptosis rate, in addition to suppressing tumor growth and enhancing mouse survival. This is the first time the mechanism underlying PGC1β‐mediated LDHA expression in multiple myeloma has been identified. We conclude that PGC1β regulates multiple myeloma tumor growth through LDHA‐mediated glycolytic metabolism. Targeting the PGC1β/LDHA pathway may be a novel therapeutic strategy for multiple myeloma treatment.
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Affiliation(s)
- Hongyu Zhang
- Department of Hematology, Peking University Shenzhen Hospital, China
| | - Ling Li
- Department of Pediatrics, Hainan Maternal and Child Health Hospital, Haikou, China
| | - Qi Chen
- Department of Hematology, Peking University Shenzhen Hospital, China
| | - Min Li
- Institute of Rehabilitation Center, Tongren Hospital of Wuhan University, China
| | - Jia Feng
- Department of Hematology, Peking University Shenzhen Hospital, China
| | - Ying Sun
- Department of Pediatrics, Hainan Maternal and Child Health Hospital, Haikou, China
| | - Rong Zhao
- Institute of Rehabilitation Center, Tongren Hospital of Wuhan University, China
| | - Yin Zhu
- Department of Geriatrics, National Key Clinical Specialty, Guangzhou First People's Hospital, Guangzhou Medical University, China
| | - Yang Lv
- Department of Pediatrics, Hainan Maternal and Child Health Hospital, Haikou, China
| | - Zhigang Zhu
- Department of Geriatrics, National Key Clinical Specialty, Guangzhou First People's Hospital, Guangzhou Medical University, China
| | - Xiaodong Huang
- Institute of Rehabilitation Center, Tongren Hospital of Wuhan University, China
| | - Weiguo Xie
- Institute of Rehabilitation Center, Tongren Hospital of Wuhan University, China
| | - Wei Xiang
- Department of Pediatrics, Hainan Maternal and Child Health Hospital, Haikou, China
| | - Paul Yao
- Department of Hematology, Peking University Shenzhen Hospital, China.,Department of Pediatrics, Hainan Maternal and Child Health Hospital, Haikou, China.,Institute of Rehabilitation Center, Tongren Hospital of Wuhan University, China
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90
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Targeting Bcl-2 for the treatment of multiple myeloma. Leukemia 2018; 32:1899-1907. [DOI: 10.1038/s41375-018-0223-9] [Citation(s) in RCA: 85] [Impact Index Per Article: 14.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/17/2018] [Revised: 05/07/2018] [Accepted: 07/05/2018] [Indexed: 12/12/2022]
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91
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TRIM17 and TRIM28 antagonistically regulate the ubiquitination and anti-apoptotic activity of BCL2A1. Cell Death Differ 2018; 26:902-917. [PMID: 30042493 DOI: 10.1038/s41418-018-0169-5] [Citation(s) in RCA: 36] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/11/2018] [Revised: 06/28/2018] [Accepted: 07/06/2018] [Indexed: 01/20/2023] Open
Abstract
BCL2A1 is an anti-apoptotic member of the BCL-2 family that contributes to chemoresistance in a subset of tumors. BCL2A1 has a short half-life due to its constitutive processing by the ubiquitin-proteasome system. This constitutes a major tumor-suppressor mechanism regulating BCL2A1 function. However, the enzymes involved in the regulation of BCL2A1 protein stability are currently unknown. Here, we provide the first insight into the regulation of BCL2A1 ubiquitination. We present evidence that TRIM28 is an E3 ubiquitin-ligase for BCL2A1. Indeed, endogenous TRIM28 and BCL2A1 bind to each other at the mitochondria and TRIM28 knock-down decreases BCL2A1 ubiquitination. We also show that TRIM17 stabilizes BCL2A1 by blocking TRIM28 from binding and ubiquitinating BCL2A1, and that GSK3 is involved in the phosphorylation-mediated inhibition of BCL2A1 degradation. BCL2A1 and its close relative MCL1 are thus regulated by common factors but with opposite outcome. Finally, overexpression of TRIM28 or knock-out of TRIM17 reduced BCLA1 protein levels and restored sensitivity of melanoma cells to BRAF-targeted therapy. Therefore, our data describe a molecular rheostat in which two proteins of the TRIM family antagonistically regulate BCL2A1 stability and modulate cell death.
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92
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Targeting sphingolipid metabolism as an approach for combination therapies in haematological malignancies. Cell Death Discov 2018; 4:72. [PMID: 30062053 PMCID: PMC6060109 DOI: 10.1038/s41420-018-0075-0] [Citation(s) in RCA: 46] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/02/2018] [Accepted: 06/12/2018] [Indexed: 12/16/2022] Open
Abstract
Conventional chemotherapy-based drug combinations have, until recently, been the backbone of most therapeutic strategies for cancer. In a time of emerging rationale drug development, targeted therapies are beginning to be added to traditional chemotherapeutics to synergistically enhance clinical responses. Of note, the importance of pro-apoptotic ceramide in mediating the anti-cancer effects of these therapies is becoming more apparent. Furthermore, reduced cellular ceramide in favour of pro-survival sphingolipids correlates with tumorigenesis and most importantly, drug resistance. Thus, agents that manipulate sphingolipid metabolism have been explored as potential anti-cancer agents and have recently demonstrated exciting potential to augment the efficacy of anti-cancer therapeutics. This review examines the biology underpinning these observations and the potential use of sphingolipid manipulating agents in the context of existing and emerging therapies for haematological malignancies. • Efficacy of many chemotherapeutics and targeted therapies is dictated by cellular ceramide levels. • Oncogene activation skews sphingolipid metabolism to favour the production of pro-survival sphingolipids. • Inhibitors of enzymes involved in ceramide metabolism exhibit promise in the relapsed-refractory setting. • Anti-cancer activity of sphingosine kinase inhibitors provides several options for new drug combinations. Open Questions • What other clinically utilised drugs rely on increases in ceramide levels for their efficacy and can they be effectively partnered with other ceramide inducing agents? • How does ceramide modulate the Bcl-2 family proteins, Mcl-1 and Bcl-2? • Are sphingolipid enzyme inhibitors best suited in the frontline or relapsed-refractory setting?
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93
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Abramson HN. The Multiple Myeloma Drug Pipeline-2018: A Review of Small Molecules and Their Therapeutic Targets. CLINICAL LYMPHOMA MYELOMA & LEUKEMIA 2018; 18:611-627. [PMID: 30001985 DOI: 10.1016/j.clml.2018.06.015] [Citation(s) in RCA: 41] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/12/2018] [Revised: 06/08/2018] [Accepted: 06/12/2018] [Indexed: 12/21/2022]
Abstract
Treatment of multiple myeloma (MM), a neoplasm of plasma cells, formerly dependent on alkylating drugs, corticosteroids, and autologous stem cell transplantation, has changed dramatically in the past 20 years because 3 new classes of small molecule drugs (arbitrarily defined as having a molecular weight of < 900 kDa)-immunomodulators, proteasome inhibitors, and histone deacetylase blockers-have been introduced for the disease. Therapeutic options for MM expanded further in 2015 when 2 new monoclonal antibodies (daratumumab and elotuzumab) were approved by the Food and Drug Administration for MM. Although MM remains incurable, the cumulative effect of these advances has resulted in a near-doubling of the 5-year survival rate since the late 1980s. Despite these advances, therapy for MM continues to pose substantial challenges because resistance to therapy frequently develops, and relapse and recurrence are all too common. The present review focused on the pipeline for new small molecules in various stages of development and their associated cellular targets. In addition to newer versions of alkylators, immunomodulators, proteasome inhibitors, and histone deacetylase inhibitors, the present review considered the prospects for adding new classes of small molecules to the MM armamentarium, which offer the potential for oral efficacy, relative simplicity of preparation, and prospects for improvement in the cost-to-benefit ratio. Included are agents that affect myeloma epigenetics and the ubiquitination-proteasome system and the unfolded protein response, apoptotic mechanisms, chromosomal abnormalities, nuclear protein transport, and various kinases involved in cellular signaling pathways.
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Affiliation(s)
- Hanley N Abramson
- Department of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Wayne State University, Detroit, MI.
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94
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Dual inhibition of BCL-XL and MCL-1 is required to induce tumour regression in lung squamous cell carcinomas sensitive to FGFR inhibition. Oncogene 2018; 37:4475-4488. [DOI: 10.1038/s41388-018-0268-2] [Citation(s) in RCA: 61] [Impact Index Per Article: 10.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/30/2017] [Revised: 03/19/2018] [Accepted: 03/29/2018] [Indexed: 12/17/2022]
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95
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Rahmani M, Nkwocha J, Hawkins E, Pei X, Parker RE, Kmieciak M, Leverson JD, Sampath D, Ferreira-Gonzalez A, Grant S. Cotargeting BCL-2 and PI3K Induces BAX-Dependent Mitochondrial Apoptosis in AML Cells. Cancer Res 2018; 78:3075-3086. [PMID: 29559471 DOI: 10.1158/0008-5472.can-17-3024] [Citation(s) in RCA: 86] [Impact Index Per Article: 14.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/06/2017] [Revised: 01/17/2018] [Accepted: 03/16/2018] [Indexed: 02/07/2023]
Abstract
Inhibitors targeting BCL-2 apoptotic proteins have significant potential for the treatment of acute myeloid leukemia (AML); however, complete responses are observed in only 20% of patients, suggesting that targeting BCL-2 alone is insufficient to yield durable responses. Here, we assessed the efficacy of coadministration of the PI3K/mTOR inhibitor GDC-0980 or the p110β-sparing PI3K inhibitor taselisib with the selective BCL-2 antagonist venetoclax in AML cells. Tetracycline-inducible downregulation of BCL-2 significantly sensitized MV4-11 and MOLM-13 AML cells to PI3K inhibition. Venetoclax/GDC-0980 coadministration induced rapid and pronounced BAX mitochondrial translocation, cytochrome c release, and apoptosis in various AML cell lines in association with AKT/mTOR inactivation and MCL-1 downregulation; ectopic expression of MCL-1 significantly protected cells from this regimen. Combined treatment was also effective against primary AML blasts from 17 patients, including those bearing various genetic abnormalities. Venetoclax/GDC-0980 markedly induced apoptosis in primitive CD34+/38-/123+ AML cell populations but not in normal hematopoietic progenitor CD34+ cells. The regimen was also active against AML cells displaying intrinsic or acquired venetoclax resistance or tumor microenvironment-associated resistance. Either combinatorial treatment markedly reduced AML growth and prolonged survival in a systemic AML xenograft mouse model and diminished AML growth in two patient-derived xenograft models. Venetoclax/GDC-0980 activity was partially diminished in BAK-/- cells and failed to induce apoptosis in BAX-/- and BAX-/-BAK-/- cells, whereas BIM-/- cells were fully sensitive. Similar results were observed with venetoclax alone in in vitro and in vivo systemic xenograft models. Collectively, these studies demonstrate that venetoclax/GDC-0980 exhibits potent anti-AML activity primarily through BAX and, to a lesser extent, BAK. These findings argue that dual BCL-2 and PI3K inhibition warrants further evaluation in AML.Significance: Combined treatment with clinically relevant PI3K and BCL-2 inhibitors may prove effective in the treatment of acute myeloid leukemia. Cancer Res; 78(11); 3075-86. ©2018 AACR.
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Affiliation(s)
- Mohamed Rahmani
- Department of Internal Medicine, Virginia Commonwealth University and the Massey Cancer Center, Virginia. .,College of Medicine, Sharjah Institute for Medical Research, University of Sharjah, Sharjah, UAE
| | - Jewel Nkwocha
- Department of Internal Medicine, Virginia Commonwealth University and the Massey Cancer Center, Virginia
| | - Elisa Hawkins
- Department of Internal Medicine, Virginia Commonwealth University and the Massey Cancer Center, Virginia
| | - Xinyan Pei
- Department of Internal Medicine, Virginia Commonwealth University and the Massey Cancer Center, Virginia
| | - Rebecca E Parker
- Department of Internal Medicine, Virginia Commonwealth University and the Massey Cancer Center, Virginia
| | - Maciej Kmieciak
- Department of Internal Medicine, Virginia Commonwealth University and the Massey Cancer Center, Virginia
| | | | | | - Andrea Ferreira-Gonzalez
- Department of Pathology, Virginia Commonwealth University and the Massey Cancer Center, Richmond, Virginia
| | - Steven Grant
- Department of Internal Medicine, Virginia Commonwealth University and the Massey Cancer Center, Virginia. .,Department of Biochemistry, Virginia Commonwealth University and the Massey Cancer Center, Richmond, Virginia.,Department of Pharmacology, Virginia Commonwealth University and the Massey Cancer Center, Richmond, Virginia.,Department of Human and Molecular Genetics, Virginia Commonwealth University, the Virginia Institute for Molecular Medicine and the Massey Cancer Center, Richmond, Virginia
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96
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Li H, Liu L, Chang H, Zou Z, Xing D. Downregulation of MCL-1 and upregulation of PUMA using mTOR inhibitors enhance antitumor efficacy of BH3 mimetics in triple-negative breast cancer. Cell Death Dis 2018; 9:137. [PMID: 29374168 PMCID: PMC5833778 DOI: 10.1038/s41419-017-0169-2] [Citation(s) in RCA: 21] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/21/2017] [Revised: 11/15/2017] [Accepted: 11/20/2017] [Indexed: 12/14/2022]
Abstract
Triple-negative breast cancer (TNBC) shows a higher malignant and poorer clinical outcome compared with other breast cancer subtypes. Albeit that chemotherapy is the first choice for TNBC treatment, rapid emergence of chemoresistance and variability of chemotherapeutic responses in TNBC patients call for novel therapeutic strategies. Here, we reported evidences highlighting that combination of BH3 mimetics and mTOR inhibitors could be a promising therapeutic strategy to improve TNBC treatment. Our results showed that combination of the BH3 mimetic ABT263 and typical mTOR inhibitors, BEZ235 or AZD8055, leads to efficient apoptosis in vitro. Tumor regression was significantly improved by combination therapy compared with either drug alone in the xenograft model. Further mechanistic investigations revealed that mTOR inhibitors induced the suppression of MCL-1; concomitantly, the expression level of PUMA was significantly upregulated in a FOXO3a-dependent manner. The specific changes of MCL-1 and PUMA facilitated the release of the apoptotic regulators, such as BIM, BAX, and BAK, to induce the activation of mitochondrial apoptotic pathway, thereby sensitizing the ABT263 activity in TNBC. Therefore, our findings provided evidences that mTOR inhibitors can enhance antitumor efficacy of BH3 mimetics via downregulating MCL-1 and upregulating PUMA in TNBC; it could be a promising therapeutic strategy to treat TNBC.
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Affiliation(s)
- Haolong Li
- MOE Key Laboratory of Laser Life Science & Institute of Laser Life Science, College of Biophotonics, South China Normal University, 510631, Guangzhou, China
- Joint Laboratory of Laser Oncology with Cancer Center of Sun Yat-sen University, South China Normal University, 510631, Guangzhou, China
| | - Lei Liu
- MOE Key Laboratory of Laser Life Science & Institute of Laser Life Science, College of Biophotonics, South China Normal University, 510631, Guangzhou, China.
- Joint Laboratory of Laser Oncology with Cancer Center of Sun Yat-sen University, South China Normal University, 510631, Guangzhou, China.
| | - Haocai Chang
- MOE Key Laboratory of Laser Life Science & Institute of Laser Life Science, College of Biophotonics, South China Normal University, 510631, Guangzhou, China
| | - Zhengzhi Zou
- MOE Key Laboratory of Laser Life Science & Institute of Laser Life Science, College of Biophotonics, South China Normal University, 510631, Guangzhou, China
- Joint Laboratory of Laser Oncology with Cancer Center of Sun Yat-sen University, South China Normal University, 510631, Guangzhou, China
| | - Da Xing
- MOE Key Laboratory of Laser Life Science & Institute of Laser Life Science, College of Biophotonics, South China Normal University, 510631, Guangzhou, China.
- Joint Laboratory of Laser Oncology with Cancer Center of Sun Yat-sen University, South China Normal University, 510631, Guangzhou, China.
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97
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Iterative optimization yields Mcl-1-targeting stapled peptides with selective cytotoxicity to Mcl-1-dependent cancer cells. Proc Natl Acad Sci U S A 2018; 115:E886-E895. [PMID: 29339518 DOI: 10.1073/pnas.1712952115] [Citation(s) in RCA: 55] [Impact Index Per Article: 9.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/18/2022] Open
Abstract
Bcl-2 family proteins regulate apoptosis, and aberrant interactions of overexpressed antiapoptotic family members such as Mcl-1 promote cell transformation, cancer survival, and resistance to chemotherapy. Discovering potent and selective Mcl-1 inhibitors that can relieve apoptotic blockades is thus a high priority for cancer research. An attractive strategy for disabling Mcl-1 involves using designer peptides to competitively engage its binding groove, mimicking the structural mechanism of action of native sensitizer BH3-only proteins. We transformed Mcl-1-binding peptides into α-helical, cell-penetrating constructs that are selectively cytotoxic to Mcl-1-dependent cancer cells. Critical to the design of effective inhibitors was our introduction of an all-hydrocarbon cross-link or "staple" that stabilizes α-helical structure, increases target binding affinity, and independently confers binding specificity for Mcl-1 over related Bcl-2 family paralogs. Two crystal structures of complexes at 1.4 Å and 1.9 Å resolution demonstrate how the hydrophobic staple induces an unanticipated structural rearrangement in Mcl-1 upon binding. Systematic sampling of staple location and iterative optimization of peptide sequence in accordance with established design principles provided peptides that target intracellular Mcl-1. This work provides proof of concept for the development of potent, selective, and cell-permeable stapled peptides for therapeutic targeting of Mcl-1 in cancer, applying a design and validation workflow applicable to a host of challenging biomedical targets.
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Flavopiridol enhances ABT-199 sensitivity in unfavourable-risk multiple myeloma cells in vitro and in vivo. Br J Cancer 2017; 118:388-397. [PMID: 29241222 PMCID: PMC5808038 DOI: 10.1038/bjc.2017.432] [Citation(s) in RCA: 21] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/17/2017] [Revised: 11/01/2017] [Accepted: 11/07/2017] [Indexed: 02/05/2023] Open
Abstract
Background: The BCL-2-specific BH3-mimetic ABT-199 (venetoclax) has been reported to be principally active against favourable-risk multiple myeloma (MM) cells, prompting efforts to extend its activity to include more resistant, higher-risk MM subsets. Methods: Effects of the CDK9 inhibitor flavopiridol (FP; alvocidib) on responses to ABT-199 were examined in MM cells. Cell death and protein expression were evaluated by western blot and immunofluorescence. Xenograft models were used to study combination effects in vivo. Results: FP synergistically increased ABT-199 lethality in both ABT-199-sensitive and insensitive MM cells. FP blocked CDK9 activation/positive transcription elongation factor B phosphorylation, downregulated MCL-1, increased BCL-2/MCL-1 ratios, and upregulated BIM. MCL-1 ectopic expression or knockdown in MM cells significantly diminished or increased ABT-199 sensitivity, respectively. CDK9 knockdown triggered MCL-1 downregulation and increased ABT-199 activity, whereas BIM knockdown significantly reduced FP/ABT-199 lethality. FP also enhanced ABT-199 lethality in unfavourable prognosis primary MM cells. HS-5 cell co-culture failed to protect MM cells from the FP/ABT-199 regimen, suggesting circumvention of microenvironmental signals. Finally, FP/ABT-199 significantly increased survival in systemic xenograft and immune-competent MM models while exhibiting minimal toxicity. Conclusions: These findings argue that CDK9 inhibitors, for example, FP may increase the antimyeloma activity of ABT-199, including in unfavourable-risk MM minimally responsive to ABT-199 alone.
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Wu Y, Wang H. LncRNA NEAT1 promotes dexamethasone resistance in multiple myeloma by targeting miR-193a/MCL1 pathway. J Biochem Mol Toxicol 2017; 32. [PMID: 29205703 DOI: 10.1002/jbt.22008] [Citation(s) in RCA: 51] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/23/2017] [Accepted: 10/27/2017] [Indexed: 01/02/2023]
Abstract
Although dexamethasone (DEX) remains a first-line agent for multiple myeloma (MM) therapy, the development of DEX resistance has become an indicator of poor prognosis in MM patients. It is thus urgent to develop strategies to restore the vulnerability of MM to DEX. This study demonstrated long non-coding RNA (lncRNA) nuclear paraspeckle assembly transcript 1 (NEAT1) was highly expressed in DEX-resistant myeloma cell lines, and upregulation of NEAT1 was tightly linked to poor prognosis. The in-depth study revealed that during the development of DEX resistance in these cells, the miR-193a levels were decreased, which resulted in the increased expression of the target gene myeloid cell leukemia-1 (MCL1). We also found knockdown of NEAT1, the DEX-induced sensitivity was enhanced in the resistant cells. Meanwhile, overexpression of NEAT1 increased the DEX-induced resistance in the sensitive cells. In conclusion, the NEAT1/miR-193a/MCL1 pathway is closely associated with the development of DEX resistance in myeloma cells, and knockdown of NEAT1 can significantly improve DEX sensitivity in MM.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yilan Wu
- School of Nursing, Fujian University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Fujian 350122, People's Republic of China
| | - Han Wang
- Department of Medical Oncology, Fujian Medical University Union Hospital, Fujian 350000, People's Republic of China
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Leverson JD, Sampath D, Souers AJ, Rosenberg SH, Fairbrother WJ, Amiot M, Konopleva M, Letai A. Found in Translation: How Preclinical Research Is Guiding the Clinical Development of the BCL2-Selective Inhibitor Venetoclax. Cancer Discov 2017; 7:1376-1393. [PMID: 29146569 DOI: 10.1158/2159-8290.cd-17-0797] [Citation(s) in RCA: 87] [Impact Index Per Article: 12.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/12/2017] [Revised: 10/12/2017] [Accepted: 10/19/2017] [Indexed: 12/12/2022]
Abstract
Since the discovery of apoptosis as a form of programmed cell death, targeting the apoptosis pathway to induce cancer cell death has been a high-priority goal for cancer therapy. After decades of effort, drug-discovery scientists have succeeded in generating small-molecule inhibitors of antiapoptotic BCL2 family proteins. Innovative medicinal chemistry and structure-based drug design, coupled with a strong fundamental understanding of BCL2 biology, were essential to the development of BH3 mimetics such as the BCL2-selective inhibitor venetoclax. We review a number of preclinical studies that have deepened our understanding of BCL2 biology and facilitated the clinical development of venetoclax.Significance: Basic research into the pathways governing programmed cell death have paved the way for the discovery of apoptosis-inducing agents such as venetoclax, a BCL2-selective inhibitor that was recently approved by the FDA and the European Medicines Agency. Preclinical studies aimed at identifying BCL2-dependent tumor types have translated well into the clinic thus far and will likely continue to inform the clinical development of venetoclax and other BCL2 family inhibitors. Cancer Discov; 7(12); 1376-93. ©2017 AACR.
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Affiliation(s)
| | | | | | | | | | - Martine Amiot
- CRCINA, INSERM, CNRS, Université de Nantes, Université d'Angers, Nantes, France
| | - Marina Konopleva
- The University of Texas MD Anderson Cancer Center, Houston, Texas
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