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Pálfy G, Menyhárd DK, Ákontz‐Kiss H, Vida I, Batta G, Tőke O, Perczel A. The Importance of Mg 2+ -Free State in Nucleotide Exchange of Oncogenic K-Ras Mutants. Chemistry 2022; 28:e202201449. [PMID: 35781716 PMCID: PMC9804424 DOI: 10.1002/chem.202201449] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/10/2022] [Indexed: 01/05/2023]
Abstract
For efficient targeting of oncogenic K-Ras interaction sites, a mechanistic picture of the Ras-cycle is necessary. Herein, we used NMR relaxation techniques and molecular dynamics simulations to decipher the role of slow dynamics in wild-type and three oncogenic P-loop mutants of K-Ras. Our measurements reveal a dominant two-state conformational exchange on the ms timescale in both GDP- and GTP-bound K-Ras. The identified low-populated higher energy state in GDP-loaded K-Ras has a conformation reminiscent of a nucleotide-bound/Mg2+ -free state characterized by shortened β2/β3-strands and a partially released switch-I region preparing K-Ras for the interaction with the incoming nucleotide exchange factor and subsequent reactivation. By providing insight into mutation-specific differences in K-Ras structural dynamics, our systematic analysis improves our understanding of prolonged K-Ras signaling and may aid the development of allosteric inhibitors targeting nucleotide exchange in K-Ras.
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Affiliation(s)
- Gyula Pálfy
- Laboratory of Structural Chemistry and BiologyInstitute of ChemistryEötvös Loránd University1/a Pázmány Péter stny.Budapest1117Hungary,MTA-ELTE Protein Modeling Research GroupEötvös Loránd Research Network (ELKH)1/a Pázmány Péter stny.Budapest1117Hungary
| | - Dóra K. Menyhárd
- MTA-ELTE Protein Modeling Research GroupEötvös Loránd Research Network (ELKH)1/a Pázmány Péter stny.Budapest1117Hungary
| | - Hanna Ákontz‐Kiss
- Laboratory of Structural Chemistry and BiologyInstitute of ChemistryEötvös Loránd University1/a Pázmány Péter stny.Budapest1117Hungary,Hevesy György PhD School of ChemistryEötvös Loránd University1/a Pázmány Péter stny.Budapest1117Hungary
| | - István Vida
- Laboratory of Structural Chemistry and BiologyInstitute of ChemistryEötvös Loránd University1/a Pázmány Péter stny.Budapest1117Hungary,Hevesy György PhD School of ChemistryEötvös Loránd University1/a Pázmány Péter stny.Budapest1117Hungary
| | - Gyula Batta
- Structural Biology Research GroupDepartment of Organic ChemistryUniversity of Debrecen1 Egyetem térDebrecen4032Hungary
| | - Orsolya Tőke
- Laboratory for NMR SpectroscopyResearch Centre for Natural Sciences (RCNS)2 Magyar tudósok körútjaBudapest1117Hungary
| | - András Perczel
- Laboratory of Structural Chemistry and BiologyInstitute of ChemistryEötvös Loránd University1/a Pázmány Péter stny.Budapest1117Hungary,MTA-ELTE Protein Modeling Research GroupEötvös Loránd Research Network (ELKH)1/a Pázmány Péter stny.Budapest1117Hungary
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102
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Toulany M. Targeting K-Ras-mediated DNA damage response in radiation oncology: Current status, challenges and future perspectives. Clin Transl Radiat Oncol 2022; 38:6-14. [PMID: 36313934 PMCID: PMC9596599 DOI: 10.1016/j.ctro.2022.10.004] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/30/2022] [Revised: 10/06/2022] [Accepted: 10/08/2022] [Indexed: 11/06/2022] Open
Abstract
Approximately 60% of cancer patients receive curative or palliative radiation. Despite the significant role of radiotherapy (RT) as a curative approach for many solid tumors, tumor recurrence occurs, partially because of intrinsic radioresistance. Accumulating evidence indicates that the success of RT is hampered by activation of the DNA damage response (DDR). The intensity of DDR signaling is affected by multiple parameters, e.g., loss-of-function mutations in tumor suppressor genes, gain-of-function mutations in protooncogenes as well as radiation-induced alterations in signal-transduction pathways. Therefore, the response to irradiation differs in tumors of different types, which makes the individualization of RT as a rational but challenging goal. One contributor to tumor cell radiation survival is signaling through the Ras pathway. Three RAS genes encode 4 Ras isoforms: K-Ras4A, K-Ras4B, H-Ras, and N-Ras. RAS family members are found to be mutated in approximately 19% of human cancers. Mutations in RAS lead to constitutive activation of the gene product and activation of multiple Ras-dependent signal-transduction cascades. Preclinical studies have shown that the expression of mutant KRAS affects DDR and increases cell survival after irradiation. Approximately 70% of RAS mutations occur in KRAS. Thus, applying targeted therapies directly against K-Ras as well as K-Ras upstream activators and downstream effectors might be a tumor-specific approach to overcome K-Ras-mediated RT resistance. In this review, the role of K-Ras in the activation of DDR signaling will be summarized. Recent progress in targeting DDR in KRAS-mutated tumors in combination with radiochemotherapy will be discussed.
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103
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He Q, Liu Z, Wang J. Targeting KRAS in PDAC: A New Way to Cure It? Cancers (Basel) 2022; 14:cancers14204982. [PMID: 36291766 PMCID: PMC9599866 DOI: 10.3390/cancers14204982] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/25/2022] [Revised: 09/29/2022] [Accepted: 10/02/2022] [Indexed: 11/16/2022] Open
Abstract
Pancreatic cancer is one of the most intractable malignant tumors worldwide, and is known for its refractory nature and poor prognosis. The fatality rate of pancreatic cancer can reach over 90%. In pancreatic ductal carcinoma (PDAC), the most common subtype of pancreatic cancer, KRAS is the most predominant mutated gene (more than 80%). In recent decades, KRAS proteins have maintained the reputation of being “undruggable” due to their special molecular structures and biological characteristics, making therapy targeting downstream genes challenging. Fortunately, the heavy rampart formed by KRAS has been broken down in recent years by the advent of KRASG12C inhibitors; the covalent inhibitors bond to the switch-II pocket of the KRASG12C protein. The KRASG12C inhibitor sotorasib has been received by the FDA for the treatment of patients suffering from KRASG12C-driven cancers. Meanwhile, researchers have paid close attention to the development of inhibitors for other KRAS mutations. Due to the high incidence of PDAC, developing KRASG12D/V inhibitors has become the focus of attention. Here, we review the clinical status of PDAC and recent research progress in targeting KRASG12D/V and discuss the potential applications.
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Affiliation(s)
- Qianyu He
- State Key Laboratory of Electroanalytical Chemistry, Changchun Institute of Applied Chemistry, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Changchun 130022, China
- School of Pharmacy, Changchun University of Chinese Medicine, Changchun 130021, China
| | - Zuojia Liu
- State Key Laboratory of Electroanalytical Chemistry, Changchun Institute of Applied Chemistry, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Changchun 130022, China
- Correspondence: (Z.L.); (J.W.)
| | - Jin Wang
- Department of Chemistry and Physics, Stony Brook University, Stony Brook, NY 11794-3400, USA
- Correspondence: (Z.L.); (J.W.)
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104
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Feng WD, Lv BH, Ye W, Wang C, Jin LY, Wang RQ, Lian CM, You KH. Process Research for ZG1077, a KRAS G12C Inhibitor. Org Process Res Dev 2022. [DOI: 10.1021/acs.oprd.2c00284] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/28/2022]
Affiliation(s)
- Wei-Dong Feng
- Suzhou Zelgen Biopharmaceuticals Co., Ltd., No. 209, Chenfeng Road, Kunshan, 215301 Jiangsu Province, China
- Shanghai Zelgen Pharma-Tech Co., Ltd., Building 3, No. 999, Cailun Road, Zhangjiang Hi-Tech Park, Shanghai 201203, China
| | - Bin-Hua Lv
- Suzhou Zelgen Biopharmaceuticals Co., Ltd., No. 209, Chenfeng Road, Kunshan, 215301 Jiangsu Province, China
- Shanghai Zelgen Pharma-Tech Co., Ltd., Building 3, No. 999, Cailun Road, Zhangjiang Hi-Tech Park, Shanghai 201203, China
| | - Wei Ye
- Suzhou Zelgen Biopharmaceuticals Co., Ltd., No. 209, Chenfeng Road, Kunshan, 215301 Jiangsu Province, China
- Shanghai Zelgen Pharma-Tech Co., Ltd., Building 3, No. 999, Cailun Road, Zhangjiang Hi-Tech Park, Shanghai 201203, China
| | - Cai Wang
- Suzhou Zelgen Biopharmaceuticals Co., Ltd., No. 209, Chenfeng Road, Kunshan, 215301 Jiangsu Province, China
- Shanghai Zelgen Pharma-Tech Co., Ltd., Building 3, No. 999, Cailun Road, Zhangjiang Hi-Tech Park, Shanghai 201203, China
| | - Lin-Yong Jin
- Suzhou Zelgen Biopharmaceuticals Co., Ltd., No. 209, Chenfeng Road, Kunshan, 215301 Jiangsu Province, China
- Shanghai Zelgen Pharma-Tech Co., Ltd., Building 3, No. 999, Cailun Road, Zhangjiang Hi-Tech Park, Shanghai 201203, China
| | - Run-Qing Wang
- Suzhou Zelgen Biopharmaceuticals Co., Ltd., No. 209, Chenfeng Road, Kunshan, 215301 Jiangsu Province, China
- Shanghai Zelgen Pharma-Tech Co., Ltd., Building 3, No. 999, Cailun Road, Zhangjiang Hi-Tech Park, Shanghai 201203, China
| | - Chang-Min Lian
- Suzhou Zelgen Biopharmaceuticals Co., Ltd., No. 209, Chenfeng Road, Kunshan, 215301 Jiangsu Province, China
- Shanghai Zelgen Pharma-Tech Co., Ltd., Building 3, No. 999, Cailun Road, Zhangjiang Hi-Tech Park, Shanghai 201203, China
| | - Kuan-Hong You
- Suzhou Zelgen Biopharmaceuticals Co., Ltd., No. 209, Chenfeng Road, Kunshan, 215301 Jiangsu Province, China
- Shanghai Zelgen Pharma-Tech Co., Ltd., Building 3, No. 999, Cailun Road, Zhangjiang Hi-Tech Park, Shanghai 201203, China
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Li L, Zhao H, Peng X, Liu J, Mai R, Chen J, Lin L, Chen T, Yan J, Shi J, Chen J. Discovery of novel Quinazoline-based KRAS G12C inhibitors as potential anticancer agents. Bioorg Med Chem 2022; 71:116962. [PMID: 35987104 DOI: 10.1016/j.bmc.2022.116962] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/30/2022] [Revised: 07/31/2022] [Accepted: 08/02/2022] [Indexed: 11/25/2022]
Abstract
A series of novel quinazoline analogs were designed and synthesized based on ARS-1620 and LLK-10 (a KRAS inhibitor reported by us recently) as KRAS G12C inhibitors with a 5-nitrofuran-2-carboxylic acid warhead. Most of the newly synthesized compounds exhibited antiproliferative activities similar to or better than ARS-1620 and LLK-10. Among them, compound KS-19 showed the highest activity (IC50 = 460 ∼ 870 nM) and reasonable selectivity (3 to 27-fold) for inhibiting the proliferation of KRAS G12C-mutated cells (NCI-H358 and NCI-H23) over other KRAS mutant (e.g. G13D, G12D, G12S, G12V, WT) cancer cells. ITC, KRAS-GTP pull-down assay and western blot analysis demonstrated that KS-19 could bind to KRAS G12C protein with high affinity (KD = 97 nM), thus decreasing the active form of KRAS G12C (KRAS G12C-GTP) and phosphorylated Erk, and leading to NCI-H358 tumor cell apoptosis. In addition, KS-19 was able to suppress the formation of NCI-H358 and NCI-H23 tumor colonies in a dose-dependent manner. Moreover, in vivo efficacy studies indicated that KS-19 (40 mg/kg) was effective in suppressing tumor growth in nude mice bearing NCI-H358 tumor xenografts with a TGI (tumor growth inhibition) of 47 %, comparable to that of ARS-1620 (50 %). Lastly, KS-19 possessed a benign toxicity profile without causing bone marrow suppression and any obvious morphological abnormalities in major organs of mice. Collectively, these results suggest that KS-19 represents a novel inhibitor of KRAS G12C worthy of further investigation as a potential anticancer agent.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ling Li
- The Eighth Affiliated Hospital, Sun Yat-Sen University, Shenzhen 518033, China; School of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Guangdong Provincial Key Laboratory of New Drug Screening, Southern Medical University, Guangzhou 510515, China
| | - Huiting Zhao
- School of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Guangdong Provincial Key Laboratory of New Drug Screening, Southern Medical University, Guangzhou 510515, China
| | - Xiaopeng Peng
- College of Pharmacy, Gannan Medical University, Ganzhou 314000, China
| | - Jin Liu
- School of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Guangdong Provincial Key Laboratory of New Drug Screening, Southern Medical University, Guangzhou 510515, China
| | - Ruiyao Mai
- School of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Guangdong Provincial Key Laboratory of New Drug Screening, Southern Medical University, Guangzhou 510515, China
| | - Jingxuan Chen
- School of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Guangdong Provincial Key Laboratory of New Drug Screening, Southern Medical University, Guangzhou 510515, China
| | - Lin Lin
- Department of Stomatology, Nanfang Hospital, Southern Medical University, Guangzhou 510515, China
| | - Ting Chen
- Department of Stomatology, Nanfang Hospital, Southern Medical University, Guangzhou 510515, China
| | - Jun Yan
- Department of General Surgery & Guangdong Provincial Key Laboratory of Precision Medicine for Gastrointestinal Tumor, Nanfang Hospital, The First School of Clinical Medicine, Southern Medical University, Guangzhou, Guangdong 510515, China.
| | - Jiaolong Shi
- Department of General Surgery & Guangdong Provincial Key Laboratory of Precision Medicine for Gastrointestinal Tumor, Nanfang Hospital, The First School of Clinical Medicine, Southern Medical University, Guangzhou, Guangdong 510515, China.
| | - Jianjun Chen
- School of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Guangdong Provincial Key Laboratory of New Drug Screening, Southern Medical University, Guangzhou 510515, China; Department of General Surgery & Guangdong Provincial Key Laboratory of Precision Medicine for Gastrointestinal Tumor, Nanfang Hospital, The First School of Clinical Medicine, Southern Medical University, Guangzhou, Guangdong 510515, China.
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106
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EREN KESKİN S, GÜZDOLU E, SERTDEMİR N, DEMİR G, SÜNNETÇİ AKKOYUNLU D, ÇİNE N, ÇABUK D, SAVLI H. Metastatik Kolorektal Kanserli Hastalarda KRAS/NRAS Gen Mutasyon Profilleri. KOCAELI ÜNIVERSITESI SAĞLIK BILIMLERI DERGISI 2022. [DOI: 10.30934/kusbed.1052876] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/20/2022] Open
Abstract
Amaç: RAS genleri, Epidermal Büyüme Faktörü Reseptörü (EGFR) tarafından indüklenen RAS-MAPK Sinyal yolağının bir üyesidir. Bu yolaktaki genlerde meydana gelen mutasyonlar kanser gelişimini tetiklemektedir. Kolorektal kanserde (KRK), RAS genlerinde meydana gelen mutasyonlar EGFR hedefli tedaviye karşı direnç gelişimine neden olur. EGFR monoklonal antikorları, kemoterapötik ajanlar olarak metastatik kolorektal kanser tedavisinde yaygın şekilde kullanılmaktadır. KRAS mutasyonları KRK’nın 30-50%’sinde, NRAS mutasyonları ise 2-3%’ünde bulunur. Bu çalışmada, KRK’lı hastalarda KRAS/NRAS mutasyonlarını analiz etmeyi amaçladık.
Yöntem: EGFR-hedefli tedaviye direnç gösteren 100 metastatik KRK hastası, Real-Time Polimeraz Zincir Reaksiyonu yöntemi ile KRAS mutasyonu (ekzon 2, 3, 4) ve NRAS mutasyonu (ekzon 2, 3, 4) durumu için tarandı.
Bulgular: Bu çalışma sonucunda, KRAS mutasyonu oranı 48% ve NRAS mutasyonu oranı 1,92% olarak bulundu. En yaygın KRAS mutasyonları kodon 12’de saptandı. Kodon 12 mutasyonlarının dağılımı G12V (25%), G12D (23%), G12C (14,5%) olarak elde edildi.
Sonuç: Çalışmamızda saptanan KRAS ve NRAS mutasyon sıklıkları benzer raporlar ile uyumlu bulundu. Sonuçlarımız, RAS mutasyonlarının test edilmesinin EGFR-hedefli tedaviden fayda sağlayacak hastaları belirlemede hayati rolünü desteklemektedir.
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Affiliation(s)
- Seda EREN KESKİN
- KOCAELİ ÜNİVERSİTESİ, TIP FAKÜLTESİ, DAHİLİ TIP BİLİMLERİ BÖLÜMÜ, TIBBİ GENETİK ANABİLİM DALI
| | - Eda GÜZDOLU
- KOCAELİ ÜNİVERSİTESİ, SAĞLIK BİLİMLERİ ENSTİTÜSÜ
| | | | - Gülhan DEMİR
- KOCAELİ ÜNİVERSİTESİ, SAĞLIK BİLİMLERİ ENSTİTÜSÜ, TIBBİ GENETİK VE MOLEKÜLER BİYOLOJİ ANABİLİM DALI
| | | | - Naci ÇİNE
- KOCAELİ ÜNİVERSİTESİ, TIP FAKÜLTESİ, DAHİLİ TIP BİLİMLERİ BÖLÜMÜ, TIBBİ GENETİK ANABİLİM DALI
| | - Devrim ÇABUK
- KOCAELİ ÜNİVERSİTESİ, TIP FAKÜLTESİ, DAHİLİ TIP BİLİMLERİ BÖLÜMÜ, İÇ HASTALIKLARI ANABİLİM DALI, TIBBİ ONKOLOJİ BİLİM DALI
| | - Hakan SAVLI
- KOCAELİ ÜNİVERSİTESİ, SAĞLIK BİLİMLERİ ENSTİTÜSÜ, TIBBİ GENETİK VE MOLEKÜLER BİYOLOJİ ANABİLİM DALI
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107
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Li X, Craven TW, Levine PM. Cyclic Peptide Screening Methods for Preclinical Drug Discovery. J Med Chem 2022; 65:11913-11926. [PMID: 36074956 DOI: 10.1021/acs.jmedchem.2c01077] [Citation(s) in RCA: 12] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/28/2022]
Abstract
Cyclic peptides are among the most diverse architectures for current drug discovery efforts. Their size, stability, and ease of synthesis provide attractive scaffolds to engage and modulate some of the most challenging targets, including protein-protein interactions and those considered to be "undruggable". With a variety of sophisticated screening technologies to produce libraries of cyclic peptides, including phage display, mRNA display, split intein circular ligation of peptides, and in silico screening, a new era of cyclic peptide drug discovery is at the forefront of modern medicine. In this perspective, we begin by discussing cyclic peptides approved for clinical use in the past two decades. Particular focus is placed around synthetic chemistries to generate de novo libraries of cyclic peptides and novel methods to screen them. The perspective culminates with future prospects for generating cyclic peptides as viable therapeutic options and discusses the advantages and disadvantages currently being faced with bringing them to market.
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Affiliation(s)
- Xinting Li
- Department of Biochemistry and Institute for Protein Design, University of Washington, Seattle, Washington 98195, United States
| | - Timothy W Craven
- Department of Biochemistry and Institute for Protein Design, University of Washington, Seattle, Washington 98195, United States
| | - Paul M Levine
- Department of Biochemistry and Institute for Protein Design, University of Washington, Seattle, Washington 98195, United States
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108
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Wang G, Bai Y, Cui J, Zong Z, Gao Y, Zheng Z. Computer-Aided Drug Design Boosts RAS Inhibitor Discovery. Molecules 2022; 27:molecules27175710. [PMID: 36080477 PMCID: PMC9457765 DOI: 10.3390/molecules27175710] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/09/2022] [Revised: 08/13/2022] [Accepted: 08/26/2022] [Indexed: 11/16/2022] Open
Abstract
The Rat Sarcoma (RAS) family (NRAS, HRAS, and KRAS) is endowed with GTPase activity to regulate various signaling pathways in ubiquitous animal cells. As proto-oncogenes, RAS mutations can maintain activation, leading to the growth and proliferation of abnormal cells and the development of a variety of human cancers. For the fight against tumors, the discovery of RAS-targeted drugs is of high significance. On the one hand, the structural properties of the RAS protein make it difficult to find inhibitors specifically targeted to it. On the other hand, targeting other molecules in the RAS signaling pathway often leads to severe tissue toxicities due to the lack of disease specificity. However, computer-aided drug design (CADD) can help solve the above problems. As an interdisciplinary approach that combines computational biology with medicinal chemistry, CADD has brought a variety of advances and numerous benefits to drug design, such as the rapid identification of new targets and discovery of new drugs. Based on an overview of RAS features and the history of inhibitor discovery, this review provides insight into the application of mainstream CADD methods to RAS drug design.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ge Wang
- Medicinal Chemistry and Bioinformatics Center, Shanghai Jiao Tong University School of Medicine, Shanghai 200025, China
- College of Stomatology, Shanghai Jiao Tong University, Shanghai 200120, China
| | - Yuhao Bai
- Medicinal Chemistry and Bioinformatics Center, Shanghai Jiao Tong University School of Medicine, Shanghai 200025, China
- College of Stomatology, Shanghai Jiao Tong University, Shanghai 200120, China
| | - Jiarui Cui
- Medicinal Chemistry and Bioinformatics Center, Shanghai Jiao Tong University School of Medicine, Shanghai 200025, China
- College of Stomatology, Shanghai Jiao Tong University, Shanghai 200120, China
| | - Zirui Zong
- Medicinal Chemistry and Bioinformatics Center, Shanghai Jiao Tong University School of Medicine, Shanghai 200025, China
- College of Stomatology, Shanghai Jiao Tong University, Shanghai 200120, China
| | - Yuan Gao
- Medicinal Chemistry and Bioinformatics Center, Shanghai Jiao Tong University School of Medicine, Shanghai 200025, China
- College of Stomatology, Shanghai Jiao Tong University, Shanghai 200120, China
| | - Zhen Zheng
- Medicinal Chemistry and Bioinformatics Center, Shanghai Jiao Tong University School of Medicine, Shanghai 200025, China
- Correspondence:
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Sayed S, Sidorova OA, Hennig A, Augsburg M, Cortés Vesga CP, Abohawya M, Schmitt LT, Sürün D, Stange DE, Mircetic J, Buchholz F. Efficient Correction of Oncogenic KRAS and TP53 Mutations through CRISPR Base Editing. Cancer Res 2022; 82:3002-3015. [PMID: 35802645 PMCID: PMC9437569 DOI: 10.1158/0008-5472.can-21-2519] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/02/2021] [Revised: 08/19/2021] [Accepted: 06/29/2022] [Indexed: 01/07/2023]
Abstract
KRAS is the most frequently mutated oncogene in human cancer, and its activating mutations represent long-sought therapeutic targets. Programmable nucleases, particularly the CRISPR-Cas9 system, provide an attractive tool for genetically targeting KRAS mutations in cancer cells. Here, we show that cleavage of a panel of KRAS driver mutations suppresses growth in various human cancer cell lines, revealing their dependence on mutant KRAS. However, analysis of the remaining cell population after long-term Cas9 expression unmasked the occurence of oncogenic KRAS escape variants that were resistant to Cas9-cleavage. In contrast, the use of an adenine base editor to correct oncogenic KRAS mutations progressively depleted the targeted cells without the appearance of escape variants and allowed efficient and simultaneous correction of a cancer-associated TP53 mutation. Oncogenic KRAS and TP53 base editing was possible in patient-derived cancer organoids, suggesting that base editor approaches to correct oncogenic mutations could be developed for functional interrogation of vulnerabilities in a personalized manner for future precision oncology applications. SIGNIFICANCE Repairing KRAS mutations with base editors can be used for providing a better understanding of RAS biology and may lay the foundation for improved treatments for KRAS-mutant cancers.
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Affiliation(s)
- Shady Sayed
- Medical Systems Biology, Medical Faculty and University Hospital Carl Gustav Carus, Technische Universität Dresden, Dresden, Germany.,National Center for Tumor Diseases (NCT), Dresden, Germany; Faculty of Medicine and University Hospital Carl Gustav Carus, Technische Universität Dresden, Dresden, Germany; Helmholtz-Zentrum Dresden - Rossendorf (HZDR), Dresden, Germany
| | - Olga A. Sidorova
- Medical Systems Biology, Medical Faculty and University Hospital Carl Gustav Carus, Technische Universität Dresden, Dresden, Germany
| | - Alexander Hennig
- National Center for Tumor Diseases (NCT), Dresden, Germany; Faculty of Medicine and University Hospital Carl Gustav Carus, Technische Universität Dresden, Dresden, Germany; Helmholtz-Zentrum Dresden - Rossendorf (HZDR), Dresden, Germany.,Mildred Scheel Early Career Center (MSNZ) P2, National Center for Tumor Diseases Dresden (NCT/UCC), Medical Faculty and University Hospital Carl Gustav Carus, Technische Universität Dresden, Dresden, Germany
| | - Martina Augsburg
- Medical Systems Biology, Medical Faculty and University Hospital Carl Gustav Carus, Technische Universität Dresden, Dresden, Germany
| | - Catherine P. Cortés Vesga
- Medical Systems Biology, Medical Faculty and University Hospital Carl Gustav Carus, Technische Universität Dresden, Dresden, Germany
| | - Moustafa Abohawya
- German Cancer Research Center (DKFZ), Heidelberg and German Cancer Consortium (DKTK) Partner Site, Dresden, Germany
| | - Lukas T. Schmitt
- Medical Systems Biology, Medical Faculty and University Hospital Carl Gustav Carus, Technische Universität Dresden, Dresden, Germany
| | - Duran Sürün
- Medical Systems Biology, Medical Faculty and University Hospital Carl Gustav Carus, Technische Universität Dresden, Dresden, Germany
| | - Daniel E. Stange
- National Center for Tumor Diseases (NCT), Dresden, Germany; Faculty of Medicine and University Hospital Carl Gustav Carus, Technische Universität Dresden, Dresden, Germany; Helmholtz-Zentrum Dresden - Rossendorf (HZDR), Dresden, Germany.,Mildred Scheel Early Career Center (MSNZ) P2, National Center for Tumor Diseases Dresden (NCT/UCC), Medical Faculty and University Hospital Carl Gustav Carus, Technische Universität Dresden, Dresden, Germany.,German Cancer Research Center (DKFZ), Heidelberg and German Cancer Consortium (DKTK) Partner Site, Dresden, Germany
| | - Jovan Mircetic
- Medical Systems Biology, Medical Faculty and University Hospital Carl Gustav Carus, Technische Universität Dresden, Dresden, Germany.,German Cancer Research Center (DKFZ), Heidelberg and German Cancer Consortium (DKTK) Partner Site, Dresden, Germany
| | - Frank Buchholz
- Medical Systems Biology, Medical Faculty and University Hospital Carl Gustav Carus, Technische Universität Dresden, Dresden, Germany.,National Center for Tumor Diseases (NCT), Dresden, Germany; Faculty of Medicine and University Hospital Carl Gustav Carus, Technische Universität Dresden, Dresden, Germany; Helmholtz-Zentrum Dresden - Rossendorf (HZDR), Dresden, Germany.,Mildred Scheel Early Career Center (MSNZ) P2, National Center for Tumor Diseases Dresden (NCT/UCC), Medical Faculty and University Hospital Carl Gustav Carus, Technische Universität Dresden, Dresden, Germany.,German Cancer Research Center (DKFZ), Heidelberg and German Cancer Consortium (DKTK) Partner Site, Dresden, Germany.,Corresponding Author: Frank Buchholz, Medical Systems Biology, Medical Faculty and University Hospital Carl Gustav Carus, Technische Universität Dresden, Dresden, Germany. E-mail:
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Plangger A, Rath B, Stickler S, Hochmair M, Lang C, Weigl L, Funovics M, Hamilton G. Cytotoxicity of combinations of the pan-KRAS SOS1 inhibitor BAY-293 against pancreatic cancer cell lines. Discov Oncol 2022; 13:84. [PMID: 36048281 PMCID: PMC9437170 DOI: 10.1007/s12672-022-00550-w] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/24/2022] [Accepted: 08/26/2022] [Indexed: 11/27/2022] Open
Abstract
KRAS is mutated in approximately 25% of cancer patients and first KRAS G12C-specific inhibitors showed promising responses. Pancreatic cancer has the highest frequency of KRAS mutations but the prevailing KRAS G12D mutation is difficult to target. Inhibition of the GTP exchange factor (GEF) SOS1-KRAS interaction impairs oncogenic signaling independently of the specific KRAS mutations. In general, cell lines exhibiting KRAS mutations show specific alterations in respect to glucose utilization, signal transduction and stress survival. The aim of this investigation was to check the putative synergy of the SOS1 inhibitor BAY-293 with modulators targeting specific vulnerabilities of KRAS-mutated cell lines in vitro. The cytotoxicity of BAY-293 combinations was tested against MIA PaCa-2 (G12C), AsPC1 (G12D) and BxPC3 (KRAS wildtype) cell lines using MTT tests and calculation of the combination indices (CI) according to the Chou-Talalay method. The results show that BAY-293 synergizes with modulators of glucose utilization, inhibitors of the downstream MAPK pathway and several chemotherapeutics in dependence of the specific KRAS status of the cell lines. In particular, divergent responses for BAY-293 combinations between pancreatic and NSCLC cell lines were observed for linsitinib, superior inhibitory effects of trametinib and PD98059 in NSCLC, and lack of activity with doxorubicin in case of the pancreatic cell lines. Phosphoproteome analysis revealed inhibition of distinct signaling pathways by BAY-293 for MIA PaCa-2 on the one hand and for Aspc1 and BH1362 on the other hand. In conclusion, BAY-293 exhibits synergy with drugs in dependence of the tumor type and specific KRAS mutation.
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Affiliation(s)
- Adelina Plangger
- Institute of Pharmacology, Medical University of Vienna, Vienna, Austria
| | - Barbara Rath
- Institute of Pharmacology, Medical University of Vienna, Vienna, Austria
| | - Sandra Stickler
- Institute of Pharmacology, Medical University of Vienna, Vienna, Austria
| | - Maximilian Hochmair
- Karl Landsteiner Institute of Lung Research and Pulmonary Oncology, Klinik Floridsdorf, Vienna, Austria
| | - Clemens Lang
- Department of Trauma Surgery, Sozialmedizinisches Zentrum Ost, Donauspital, Vienna, Austria
| | - Lukas Weigl
- Division of Special Anesthesia and Pain Medicine, Medical University of Vienna, Vienna, Austria
| | - Martin Funovics
- Department of Cardiovascular and Interventional Radiology, Medical University of Vienna, Vienna, Austria
| | - Gerhard Hamilton
- Institute of Pharmacology, Medical University of Vienna, Vienna, Austria.
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111
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The current state of the art and future trends in RAS-targeted cancer therapies. Nat Rev Clin Oncol 2022; 19:637-655. [PMID: 36028717 PMCID: PMC9412785 DOI: 10.1038/s41571-022-00671-9] [Citation(s) in RCA: 147] [Impact Index Per Article: 73.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 07/20/2022] [Indexed: 12/18/2022]
Abstract
Despite being the most frequently altered oncogenic protein in solid tumours, KRAS has historically been considered ‘undruggable’ owing to a lack of pharmacologically targetable pockets within the mutant isoforms. However, improvements in drug design have culminated in the development of inhibitors that are selective for mutant KRAS in its active or inactive state. Some of these inhibitors have proven efficacy in patients with KRASG12C-mutant cancers and have become practice changing. The excitement associated with these advances has been tempered by drug resistance, which limits the depth and/or duration of responses to these agents. Improvements in our understanding of RAS signalling in cancer cells and in the tumour microenvironment suggest the potential for several novel combination therapies, which are now being explored in clinical trials. Herein, we provide an overview of the RAS pathway and review the development and current status of therapeutic strategies for targeting oncogenic RAS, as well as their potential to improve outcomes in patients with RAS-mutant malignancies. We then discuss challenges presented by resistance mechanisms and strategies by which they could potentially be overcome. The RAS oncogenes are among the most common drivers of tumour development and progression but have historically been considered undruggable. The development of direct KRAS inhibitors has changed this paradigm, although currently clinical use of these novel therapeutics is limited to a select subset of patients, and intrinsic or acquired resistance presents an inevitable challenge to cure. Herein, the authors provide an overview of the RAS pathway in cancer and review the ongoing efforts to develop effective therapeutic strategies for RAS-mutant cancers. They also discuss the current understanding of mechanisms of resistance to direct KRAS inhibitors and strategies by which they might be overcome. Owing to intrinsic and extrinsic factors, KRAS and other RAS isoforms have until recently been impervious to targeting with small-molecule inhibitors. Inhibitors of the KRASG12C variant constitute a potential breakthrough in the treatment of many cancer types, particularly non-small-cell lung cancer, for which such an agent has been approved by the FDA. Several forms of resistance to KRAS inhibitors have been defined, including primary, adaptive and acquired resistance; these resistance mechanisms are being targeted in studies that combine KRAS inhibitors with inhibitors of horizontal or vertical signalling pathways. Mutant KRAS has important effects on the tumour microenvironment, including the immunological milieu; these effects must be considered to fully understand resistance to KRAS inhibitors and when designing novel treatment strategies.
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112
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Zhang Z, Morstein J, Ecker AK, Guiley KZ, Shokat KM. Chemoselective Covalent Modification of K-Ras(G12R) with a Small Molecule Electrophile. J Am Chem Soc 2022; 144:15916-15921. [PMID: 36001446 PMCID: PMC9460778 DOI: 10.1021/jacs.2c05377] [Citation(s) in RCA: 49] [Impact Index Per Article: 24.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/12/2023]
Abstract
![]()
KRAS mutations are one of the most common
oncogenic
drivers in human cancer. While small molecule inhibitors for the G12C
mutant have been successfully developed, allele-specific inhibition
for other KRAS hotspot mutants remains challenging.
Here we report the discovery of covalent chemical ligands for the
common oncogenic mutant K-Ras(G12R). These ligands bind in the Switch
II pocket and irreversibly react with the mutant arginine residue.
An X-ray crystal structure reveals an imidazolium condensation product
formed between the α,β-diketoamide ligand and the ε-
and η-nitrogens of arginine 12. Our results show that arginine
residues can be selectively targeted with small molecule electrophiles
despite their weak nucleophilicity and provide the basis for the development
of mutant-specific therapies for K-Ras(G12R)-driven cancer.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ziyang Zhang
- Department of Cellular and Molecular Pharmacology and Howard Hughes Medical Institute, University of California San Francisco, San Francisco, California 94158, United States.,Department of Chemistry, University of California Berkeley, Berkeley, California 94720, United States
| | - Johannes Morstein
- Department of Cellular and Molecular Pharmacology and Howard Hughes Medical Institute, University of California San Francisco, San Francisco, California 94158, United States
| | - Andrew K Ecker
- Department of Cellular and Molecular Pharmacology and Howard Hughes Medical Institute, University of California San Francisco, San Francisco, California 94158, United States
| | - Keelan Z Guiley
- Department of Cellular and Molecular Pharmacology and Howard Hughes Medical Institute, University of California San Francisco, San Francisco, California 94158, United States
| | - Kevan M Shokat
- Department of Cellular and Molecular Pharmacology and Howard Hughes Medical Institute, University of California San Francisco, San Francisco, California 94158, United States
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113
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KRAS-Mutant Non-Small-Cell Lung Cancer: From Past Efforts to Future Challenges. Int J Mol Sci 2022; 23:ijms23169391. [PMID: 36012655 PMCID: PMC9408881 DOI: 10.3390/ijms23169391] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/30/2022] [Revised: 08/15/2022] [Accepted: 08/16/2022] [Indexed: 12/12/2022] Open
Abstract
KRAS is the most frequently mutated oncogene identified in human cancers. Despite the numerous efforts to develop effective specific inhibitors against KRAS, this molecule has remained "undruggable" for decades. The development of direct KRAS inhibitors, such as sotorasib, the first FDA-approved drug targeting KRAS G12C, or adagrasib, was made possible with the discovery of a small pocket in the binding switch II region of KRAS G12C. However, a new challenge is represented by the necessity to overcome resistance mechanisms to KRAS inhibitors. Another area to be explored is the potential role of co-mutations in the selection of the treatment strategy, particularly in the setting of immune checkpoint inhibitors. The aim of this review was to analyze the state-of-the-art of KRAS mutations in non-small-cell lung cancer by describing the biological structure of KRAS and exploring the clinical relevance of KRAS as a prognostic and predictive biomarker. We reviewed the different treatment approaches, focusing on the novel therapeutic strategies for the treatment of KRAS-mutant lung cancers.
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114
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Zou J, Qin W. Comprehensive analysis of the cancer driver genes constructs a seven-gene signature for prediction of survival and tumor immunity in hepatocellular carcinoma. Front Genet 2022; 13:937948. [PMID: 36017503 PMCID: PMC9395598 DOI: 10.3389/fgene.2022.937948] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/06/2022] [Accepted: 07/05/2022] [Indexed: 12/02/2022] Open
Abstract
Hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) is a highly malignant and heterogeneous tumor with poor prognosis. Cancer driver genes (CDGs) play an important role in the carcinogenesis and progression of HCC. In this study, we comprehensively investigated the expression, mutation, and prognostic significance of 568 CDGs in HCC. A prognostic risk model was constructed based on seven CDGs (CDKN2C, HRAS, IRAK1, LOX, MYCN, NRAS, and PABPC1) and verified to be an independent prognostic factor in both TCGA and ICGC cohorts. The low-score group, which showed better prognosis, had a high proportion of CD8+ T cells and elevated expression of interferon-related signaling pathways. Additionally, we constructed a nomogram to extend the clinical applicability of the prognostic model, which exhibits excellent predictive accuracy for survival. Our study showed the important role of CDGs in HCC and provides a novel prognostic indicator for HCC.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jun Zou
- Department of Pediatrics, Tongji Hospital, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, China
| | - Wan Qin
- Department of Oncology, Tongji Hospital, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, China
- *Correspondence: Wan Qin,
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115
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Zhu C, Guan X, Zhang X, Luan X, Song Z, Cheng X, Zhang W, Qin JJ. Targeting KRAS mutant cancers: from druggable therapy to drug resistance. Mol Cancer 2022; 21:159. [PMID: 35922812 PMCID: PMC9351107 DOI: 10.1186/s12943-022-01629-2] [Citation(s) in RCA: 64] [Impact Index Per Article: 32.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/22/2022] [Accepted: 07/25/2022] [Indexed: 02/06/2023] Open
Abstract
Kirsten Rat Sarcoma Viral Oncogene Homolog (KRAS) is the most frequently mutated oncogene, occurring in a variety of tumor types. Targeting KRAS mutations with drugs is challenging because KRAS is considered undruggable due to the lack of classic drug binding sites. Over the past 40 years, great efforts have been made to explore routes for indirect targeting of KRAS mutant cancers, including KRAS expression, processing, upstream regulators, or downstream effectors. With the advent of KRAS (G12C) inhibitors, KRAS mutations are now druggable. Despite such inhibitors showing remarkable clinical responses, resistance to monotherapy of KRAS inhibitors is eventually developed. Significant progress has been made in understanding the mechanisms of drug resistance to KRAS-mutant inhibitors. Here we review the most recent advances in therapeutic approaches and resistance mechanisms targeting KRAS mutations and discuss opportunities for combination therapy.
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Affiliation(s)
- Chunxiao Zhu
- The Cancer Hospital of the University of Chinese Academy of Sciences (Zhejiang Cancer Hospital), Institute of Basic Medicine and Cancer (IBMC), Chinese Academy of Sciences, Hangzhou, 310022, China.,School of Molecular Medicine, Hangzhou Institute for Advanced Study, UCAS, Hangzhou, 310024, China
| | - Xiaoqing Guan
- The Cancer Hospital of the University of Chinese Academy of Sciences (Zhejiang Cancer Hospital), Institute of Basic Medicine and Cancer (IBMC), Chinese Academy of Sciences, Hangzhou, 310022, China.,Key Laboratory of Prevention, Diagnosis, and Therapy of Upper Gastrointestinal Cancer of Zhejiang Province, Hangzhou, 310022, China
| | - Xinuo Zhang
- The Cancer Hospital of the University of Chinese Academy of Sciences (Zhejiang Cancer Hospital), Institute of Basic Medicine and Cancer (IBMC), Chinese Academy of Sciences, Hangzhou, 310022, China.,College of Pharmaceutical Science, Zhejiang University of Technology, Hangzhou, 310032, China
| | - Xin Luan
- Institute of Interdisciplinary Integrative Medicine Research and Shuguang Hospital, Shanghai University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Shanghai, 201203, China
| | - Zhengbo Song
- The Cancer Hospital of the University of Chinese Academy of Sciences (Zhejiang Cancer Hospital), Institute of Basic Medicine and Cancer (IBMC), Chinese Academy of Sciences, Hangzhou, 310022, China
| | - Xiangdong Cheng
- The Cancer Hospital of the University of Chinese Academy of Sciences (Zhejiang Cancer Hospital), Institute of Basic Medicine and Cancer (IBMC), Chinese Academy of Sciences, Hangzhou, 310022, China. .,Key Laboratory of Prevention, Diagnosis, and Therapy of Upper Gastrointestinal Cancer of Zhejiang Province, Hangzhou, 310022, China.
| | - Weidong Zhang
- Institute of Interdisciplinary Integrative Medicine Research and Shuguang Hospital, Shanghai University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Shanghai, 201203, China. .,School of Pharmacy, Second Military Medical University, Shanghai, 200433, China.
| | - Jiang-Jiang Qin
- The Cancer Hospital of the University of Chinese Academy of Sciences (Zhejiang Cancer Hospital), Institute of Basic Medicine and Cancer (IBMC), Chinese Academy of Sciences, Hangzhou, 310022, China. .,School of Molecular Medicine, Hangzhou Institute for Advanced Study, UCAS, Hangzhou, 310024, China. .,Key Laboratory of Prevention, Diagnosis, and Therapy of Upper Gastrointestinal Cancer of Zhejiang Province, Hangzhou, 310022, China.
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116
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Lin L, Miao L, Lin H, Cheng J, Li M, Zhuo Z, He J. Targeting RAS in neuroblastoma: Is it possible? Pharmacol Ther 2022; 236:108054. [PMID: 34915055 DOI: 10.1016/j.pharmthera.2021.108054] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/18/2021] [Revised: 12/06/2021] [Accepted: 12/08/2021] [Indexed: 02/07/2023]
Abstract
Neuroblastoma is a common solid tumor in children and a leading cause of cancer death in children. Neuroblastoma exhibits genetic, morphological, and clinical heterogeneity that limits the efficacy of current monotherapies. With further research on neuroblastoma, the pathogenesis of neuroblastoma is found to be complex, and more and more treatment therapies are needed. The importance of personalized therapy is growing. Currently, various molecular features, including RAS mutations, are being used as targets for the development of new therapies for patients with neuroblastoma. A recent study found that RAS mutations are frequently present in recurrent neuroblastoma. RAS mutations have been shown to activate the MAPK pathway and play an important role in neuroblastoma. Treating RAS mutated neuroblastoma is a difficult challenge, but many preclinical studies have yielded effective results. At the same time, many of the therapies used to treat RAS mutated tumors also have good reference values for treating RAS mutated neuroblastoma. The success of KRAS-G12C inhibitors has greatly stimulated confidence in the direct suppression of RAS. This review describes the biological role of RAS and the frequency of RAS mutations in neuroblastoma. This paper focuses on the strategies, preclinical, and clinical progress of targeting carcinogenic RAS in neuroblastoma, and proposes possible prospects and challenges in the future.
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Affiliation(s)
- Lei Lin
- Department of Pediatric Surgery, Guangzhou Institute of Pediatrics, Guangdong Provincial Key Laboratory of Research in Structural Birth Defect Disease, Guangzhou Women and Children's Medical Center, Guangzhou Medical University, Guangzhou 510623, Guangdong, China
| | - Lei Miao
- Department of Pediatric Surgery, Guangzhou Institute of Pediatrics, Guangdong Provincial Key Laboratory of Research in Structural Birth Defect Disease, Guangzhou Women and Children's Medical Center, Guangzhou Medical University, Guangzhou 510623, Guangdong, China
| | - Huiran Lin
- Faculty of Medicine, Macau University of Science and Technology, Macau 999078, China
| | - Jiwen Cheng
- Department of Pediatric Surgery, The Second Affiliated Hospital of Xi'an Jiaotong University, Xi'an 710004, Shaanxi, China
| | - Meng Li
- Department of Pediatric Surgery, Guangzhou Institute of Pediatrics, Guangdong Provincial Key Laboratory of Research in Structural Birth Defect Disease, Guangzhou Women and Children's Medical Center, Guangzhou Medical University, Guangzhou 510623, Guangdong, China
| | - Zhenjian Zhuo
- Department of Pediatric Surgery, Guangzhou Institute of Pediatrics, Guangdong Provincial Key Laboratory of Research in Structural Birth Defect Disease, Guangzhou Women and Children's Medical Center, Guangzhou Medical University, Guangzhou 510623, Guangdong, China; Laboratory Animal Center, School of Chemical Biology and Biotechnology, Peking University Shenzhen Graduate School, Shenzhen 518055, China.
| | - Jing He
- Department of Pediatric Surgery, Guangzhou Institute of Pediatrics, Guangdong Provincial Key Laboratory of Research in Structural Birth Defect Disease, Guangzhou Women and Children's Medical Center, Guangzhou Medical University, Guangzhou 510623, Guangdong, China.
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117
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Wang Q, Xu C, Cai R, An W, Yuan H, Xu M. Fbxo45-mediated NP-STEP 46 degradation via K6-linked ubiquitination sustains ERK activity in lung cancer. Mol Oncol 2022; 16:3017-3033. [PMID: 35838331 PMCID: PMC9394119 DOI: 10.1002/1878-0261.13290] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/15/2021] [Revised: 06/19/2022] [Accepted: 07/13/2022] [Indexed: 11/15/2022] Open
Abstract
Lung cancer is one of the most threatening malignant tumors to human health. Epidermal growth factor receptor (EGFR)‐targeted therapy is a common and essential means for the clinical treatment of lung cancer. However, drug resistance has always affected the therapeutic effect and survival rate in non‐small cell lung cancer (NSCLC). Tumor heterogeneity is a significant reason, yielding various drug resistance mechanisms, such as EGFR‐dependent or ‐independent extracellular signal‐regulated kinase 1 and/or 2 (ERK1/2) activation in NSCLC. To examine whether this aberrant activation of ERK1/2 is related to the loss of function of its specific phosphatase, a series of in vitro and in vivo assays were performed. We found that F‐box/SPRY domain‐containing protein 1 (Fbxo45) induces ubiquitination of NP‐STEP46, an active form of striatal‐enriched protein tyrosine phosphatase, with a K6‐linked poly‐ubiquitin chain. This ubiquitination led to proteasome degradation in the nucleus, which then sustains the aberrant level of phosphorylated‐ERK (pERK) and promotes tumor growth of NSCLC. Fbxo45 silencing can significantly inhibit cell proliferation and tumor growth. Moreover, NSCLC cells with silenced Fbxo45 showed great sensitivity to the EGFR tyrosine kinase inhibitor (TKI) afatinib. Here, we first report this critical pERK maintenance mechanism, which might be independent of the upstream kinase activity in NSCLC. We propose that inhibiting Fbxo45 may combat the issue of drug resistance in NSCLC patients, especially combining with EGFR‐TKI therapy.
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Affiliation(s)
- Qian Wang
- Department of Oncology, Shanghai Ninth People's Hospital, Shanghai Jiao Tong University School of Medicine, 280 Mohe Road, Shanghai 201999, China
| | - Ci Xu
- Department of Oncology, Shanghai Ninth People's Hospital, Shanghai Jiao Tong University School of Medicine, 280 Mohe Road, Shanghai 201999, China.,Department of Gastroenterology, Shanghai Ninth People's Hospital, Shanghai Jiao Tong University School of Medicine, 280 Mohe Road, Shanghai 201999, China
| | - Renjie Cai
- Department of Oncology, Shanghai Ninth People's Hospital, Shanghai Jiao Tong University School of Medicine, 280 Mohe Road, Shanghai 201999, China
| | - Weishu An
- Department of Oncology, Shanghai Ninth People's Hospital, Shanghai Jiao Tong University School of Medicine, 280 Mohe Road, Shanghai 201999, China
| | - Haihua Yuan
- Department of Oncology, Shanghai Ninth People's Hospital, Shanghai Jiao Tong University School of Medicine, 280 Mohe Road, Shanghai 201999, China
| | - Ming Xu
- Department of Oncology, Shanghai Ninth People's Hospital, Shanghai Jiao Tong University School of Medicine, 280 Mohe Road, Shanghai 201999, China
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118
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Thein KZ, Biter AB, Banks KC, Duda AW, Saam J, Roszik J, Janku F, Skoulidis F, Heymach JV, Kopetz S, Meric-Bernstam F, Hong DS. Identification of KRASG12C Mutations in Circulating Tumor DNA in Patients With Cancer. JCO Precis Oncol 2022; 6:e2100547. [PMID: 35862868 PMCID: PMC9365336 DOI: 10.1200/po.21.00547] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/30/2022] Open
Abstract
KRAS is the most mutated proto-oncogene that has been identified in cancer, and treatment of patients with KRAS mutations remains an arduous challenge. Recently, KRASG12C mutation has attracted special interest because it is now considered potentially druggable with recently developed covalent small-molecule KRASG12C inhibitors. Nevertheless, to date, there have been no large-scale analyses of liquid biopsy that include testing for KRASG12C. Here, we performed a comprehensive analysis of KRASG12C mutations in multiple cancer types, as detected by circulating tumor DNA.
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Affiliation(s)
- Kyaw Z Thein
- Department of Investigational Cancer Therapeutics, The University of Texas MD Anderson Cancer Center, Houston, TX.,Division of Hematology and Medical Oncology, Oregon Health and Science University/Knight Cancer Institute, Portland, OR
| | - Amadeo B Biter
- Department of Investigational Cancer Therapeutics, The University of Texas MD Anderson Cancer Center, Houston, TX
| | | | | | | | - Jason Roszik
- Department of Melanoma Medical Oncology, The University of Texas MD Anderson Cancer Center, Houston, TX
| | - Filip Janku
- Department of Investigational Cancer Therapeutics, The University of Texas MD Anderson Cancer Center, Houston, TX
| | - Ferdinandos Skoulidis
- Department of Thoracic-Head & Neck Medical Oncology, The University of Texas MD Anderson Cancer Center, Houston, TX
| | - John V Heymach
- Department of Thoracic-Head & Neck Medical Oncology, The University of Texas MD Anderson Cancer Center, Houston, TX
| | - Scott Kopetz
- Department of Gastrointestinal Medical Oncology, The University of Texas MD Anderson Cancer Center, Houston, TX
| | - Funda Meric-Bernstam
- Department of Investigational Cancer Therapeutics, The University of Texas MD Anderson Cancer Center, Houston, TX
| | - David S Hong
- Department of Investigational Cancer Therapeutics, The University of Texas MD Anderson Cancer Center, Houston, TX
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119
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Imaizumi T, Akaiwa M, Abe T, Nigawara T, Koike T, Satake Y, Watanabe K, Kaneko O, Amano Y, Mori K, Yamanaka Y, Nagashima T, Shimazaki M, Kuramoto K. Discovery and biological evaluation of 1-{2,7-diazaspiro[3.5]nonan-2-yl}prop-2-en-1-one derivatives as covalent inhibitors of KRAS G12C with favorable metabolic stability and anti-tumor activity. Bioorg Med Chem 2022; 71:116949. [DOI: 10.1016/j.bmc.2022.116949] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/04/2022] [Revised: 07/26/2022] [Accepted: 07/26/2022] [Indexed: 11/02/2022]
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120
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He M, Cao C, Ni Z, Liu Y, Song P, Hao S, He Y, Sun X, Rao Y. PROTACs: great opportunities for academia and industry (an update from 2020 to 2021). Signal Transduct Target Ther 2022; 7:181. [PMID: 35680848 PMCID: PMC9178337 DOI: 10.1038/s41392-022-00999-9] [Citation(s) in RCA: 82] [Impact Index Per Article: 41.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/18/2022] [Revised: 03/25/2022] [Accepted: 04/12/2022] [Indexed: 02/07/2023] Open
Abstract
PROteolysis TArgeting Chimeras (PROTACs) technology is a new protein-degradation strategy that has emerged in recent years. It uses bifunctional small molecules to induce the ubiquitination and degradation of target proteins through the ubiquitin–proteasome system. PROTACs can not only be used as potential clinical treatments for diseases such as cancer, immune disorders, viral infections, and neurodegenerative diseases, but also provide unique chemical knockdown tools for biological research in a catalytic, reversible, and rapid manner. In 2019, our group published a review article “PROTACs: great opportunities for academia and industry” in the journal, summarizing the representative compounds of PROTACs reported before the end of 2019. In the past 2 years, the entire field of protein degradation has experienced rapid development, including not only a large increase in the number of research papers on protein-degradation technology but also a rapid increase in the number of small-molecule degraders that have entered the clinical and will enter the clinical stage. In addition to PROTAC and molecular glue technology, other new degradation technologies are also developing rapidly. In this article, we mainly summarize and review the representative PROTACs of related targets published in 2020–2021 to present to researchers the exciting developments in the field of protein degradation. The problems that need to be solved in this field will also be briefly introduced.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ming He
- Ministry of Education (MOE) Key Laboratory of Protein Sciences, School of Pharmaceutical Sciences, MOE Key Laboratory of Bioorganic Phosphorus Chemistry & Chemical Biology, Tsinghua University, 100084, Beijing, P. R. China
| | - Chaoguo Cao
- Ministry of Education (MOE) Key Laboratory of Protein Sciences, School of Pharmaceutical Sciences, MOE Key Laboratory of Bioorganic Phosphorus Chemistry & Chemical Biology, Tsinghua University, 100084, Beijing, P. R. China.,Tsinghua-Peking Center for Life Sciences, 100084, Beijing, P. R. China
| | - Zhihao Ni
- Ministry of Education (MOE) Key Laboratory of Protein Sciences, School of Pharmaceutical Sciences, MOE Key Laboratory of Bioorganic Phosphorus Chemistry & Chemical Biology, Tsinghua University, 100084, Beijing, P. R. China
| | - Yongbo Liu
- Ministry of Education (MOE) Key Laboratory of Protein Sciences, School of Pharmaceutical Sciences, MOE Key Laboratory of Bioorganic Phosphorus Chemistry & Chemical Biology, Tsinghua University, 100084, Beijing, P. R. China
| | - Peilu Song
- Ministry of Education (MOE) Key Laboratory of Protein Sciences, School of Pharmaceutical Sciences, MOE Key Laboratory of Bioorganic Phosphorus Chemistry & Chemical Biology, Tsinghua University, 100084, Beijing, P. R. China
| | - Shuang Hao
- Ministry of Education (MOE) Key Laboratory of Protein Sciences, School of Pharmaceutical Sciences, MOE Key Laboratory of Bioorganic Phosphorus Chemistry & Chemical Biology, Tsinghua University, 100084, Beijing, P. R. China
| | - Yuna He
- Ministry of Education (MOE) Key Laboratory of Protein Sciences, School of Pharmaceutical Sciences, MOE Key Laboratory of Bioorganic Phosphorus Chemistry & Chemical Biology, Tsinghua University, 100084, Beijing, P. R. China
| | - Xiuyun Sun
- Ministry of Education (MOE) Key Laboratory of Protein Sciences, School of Pharmaceutical Sciences, MOE Key Laboratory of Bioorganic Phosphorus Chemistry & Chemical Biology, Tsinghua University, 100084, Beijing, P. R. China
| | - Yu Rao
- Ministry of Education (MOE) Key Laboratory of Protein Sciences, School of Pharmaceutical Sciences, MOE Key Laboratory of Bioorganic Phosphorus Chemistry & Chemical Biology, Tsinghua University, 100084, Beijing, P. R. China. .,School of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Zhengzhou University, 450001, Zhengzhou, China.
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121
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Xu Y, Yu Z, Fu H, Guo Y, Hu P, Shi J. Dual Inhibitions on Glucose/Glutamine Metabolisms for Nontoxic Pancreatic Cancer Therapy. ACS APPLIED MATERIALS & INTERFACES 2022; 14:21836-21847. [PMID: 35512029 DOI: 10.1021/acsami.2c00111] [Citation(s) in RCA: 15] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 06/14/2023]
Abstract
Glucose and glutamine are two principal nutrients in mammalian cells that provide energy and biomass for cell growth and proliferation. Especially in cancer cells, glutamine could be a main alternative for energy and biomass supply once glucose metabolism is suppressed. Therefore, single inhibition of enzymes in either glucose metabolism or glutaminolysis, though maybe efficient in vitro, is far from being satisfactory for efficient in vivo cancer therapy. Here, we proposed a new strategy for dual inhibitions on both glucose and glutamine metabolisms concurrently by silencing mutated gene Kras and glutaminase 1 (GLS1) via nanomaterial-based siKras and siGLS1 delivery, rather than conventional highly toxic chemodrugs. Such a combination therapy could overcome the challenge that glucose and glutamine are alternatives to each other in the biosynthesis and energy production for cancer cells, resulting in much elevated treatment efficacy. In addition, layered double hydroxide (LDH), the siRNA carrier, enables an enhanced gene delivery efficiency compared to the commercial transfection agent Lipofectamine 2000. Briefly, Mg-Al LDH nanosheets, loaded with siKras and siGLS1 onto their surfaces by electrostatic adsorption, could release siRNA from lysosomes into the cytoplasm via the proton sponge effect of LDH, favoring the siRNA stability and gene silencing efficiency enhancements. The thus released siRNA could downregulate the expressions of Kras, GLS1, and other enzymes involved in glucose metabolism, resulting in the downregulations of ATP and other metabolites. Such a biosafe LDH/siRNA nanomedicine is able to efficiently suppress the growth of xenografts through cancer cell proliferation suppression, displaying its great potential as a simultaneous glucose/glutamine metabolism coinhibitor for treating pancreatic cancer.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yingying Xu
- State Key Laboratory of High Performance Ceramics and Superfine Microstructure, Shanghai Institute of Ceramics Chinese Academy of Sciences, Research Unit of Nanocatalytic Medicine in Specific Therapy for Serious Disease, Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences (2021RU012), Shanghai 200050, P. R. China
- School of Physical Science and Technology, ShanghaiTech University, 393 Middle Hua-xia Road, Shanghai 201210, P. R. China
| | - Zhiguo Yu
- State Key Laboratory of High Performance Ceramics and Superfine Microstructure, Shanghai Institute of Ceramics Chinese Academy of Sciences, Research Unit of Nanocatalytic Medicine in Specific Therapy for Serious Disease, Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences (2021RU012), Shanghai 200050, P. R. China
| | - Hao Fu
- State Key Laboratory of High Performance Ceramics and Superfine Microstructure, Shanghai Institute of Ceramics Chinese Academy of Sciences, Research Unit of Nanocatalytic Medicine in Specific Therapy for Serious Disease, Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences (2021RU012), Shanghai 200050, P. R. China
| | - Yuedong Guo
- State Key Laboratory of High Performance Ceramics and Superfine Microstructure, Shanghai Institute of Ceramics Chinese Academy of Sciences, Research Unit of Nanocatalytic Medicine in Specific Therapy for Serious Disease, Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences (2021RU012), Shanghai 200050, P. R. China
| | - Ping Hu
- State Key Laboratory of High Performance Ceramics and Superfine Microstructure, Shanghai Institute of Ceramics Chinese Academy of Sciences, Research Unit of Nanocatalytic Medicine in Specific Therapy for Serious Disease, Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences (2021RU012), Shanghai 200050, P. R. China
- Shanghai Tenth People's Hospital, Shanghai Frontiers Science Center of Nanocatalytic Medicine, School of Medicine, Tongji University, Shanghai 200331, P. R. China
| | - Jianlin Shi
- State Key Laboratory of High Performance Ceramics and Superfine Microstructure, Shanghai Institute of Ceramics Chinese Academy of Sciences, Research Unit of Nanocatalytic Medicine in Specific Therapy for Serious Disease, Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences (2021RU012), Shanghai 200050, P. R. China
- Shanghai Tenth People's Hospital, Shanghai Frontiers Science Center of Nanocatalytic Medicine, School of Medicine, Tongji University, Shanghai 200331, P. R. China
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Lietman CD, Johnson ML, McCormick F, Lindsay CR. More to the RAS Story: KRAS G12C Inhibition, Resistance Mechanisms, and Moving Beyond KRAS G12C. Am Soc Clin Oncol Educ Book 2022; 42:1-13. [PMID: 35561303 DOI: 10.1200/edbk_351333] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/12/2022]
Abstract
Despite the discovery of RAS oncogenes in human tumor DNA 40 years ago, the development of effective targeted therapies directed against RAS has lagged behind those more successful advancements in the field of therapeutic tyrosine kinase inhibitors targeting other oncogenes such as EGFR, ALK, and ROS1. The discoveries that (1) malignant RAS oncogenes differ from their wild-type counterparts by only a single amino acid change and (2) covalent inhibition of the cysteine residue at codon 12 of KRASG12C in its inactive GDP-bound state resulted in effective inhibition of oncogenic RAS signaling and have catalyzed a dramatic shift in mindset toward KRAS-driven cancers. Although the development of allele-selective KRASG12C inhibitors has changed a treatment paradigm, the clinical activity of these agents is more modest than tyrosine kinase inhibitors targeting other oncogene-driven cancers. Heterogeneous resistance mechanisms generally result in the restoration of RAS/mitogen-activated protein kinase pathway signaling. Many approaches are being evaluated to overcome this resistance, with many combinatorial clinical trials ongoing. Furthermore, because KRASG12D and KRASG12V are more prevalent than KRASG12C, there remains an unmet need for additional therapeutic strategies for these patients. Thus, our current translational standing could be described as "the end of the beginning," with additional discovery and research innovation needed to address the enormous disease burden imposed by RAS-mutant cancers. Here, we describe the development of KRASG12C inhibitors, the challenges of resistance to these inhibitors, strategies to mitigate that resistance, and new approaches being taken to address other RAS-mutant cancers.
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Affiliation(s)
| | | | - Frank McCormick
- UCSF Helen Diller Family Comprehensive Cancer Center, San Francisco, CA
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Issahaku AR, Salifu EY, Soliman MES. Inside the cracked kernel: establishing the molecular basis of AMG510 and MRTX849 in destabilising KRASG12C mutant switch I and II in cancer treatment. J Biomol Struct Dyn 2022:1-13. [PMID: 35543250 DOI: 10.1080/07391102.2022.2074141] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/18/2022]
Abstract
The Kirsten rat sarcoma oncoprotein (KRAS) has been punctuated by drug development failures for decades due to frequent mutations that occur mostly at codon 12 and the seemingly intractable targeting of the protein. However, with advances in covalent targeting, the oncoprotein is being expunged from the 'undruggable' list of proteins. This feat has seen some covalent drugs at different stages of clinical trials. The advancement of AMG510 and MRTX849 as inhibitors of cysteine mutated KRAS (KRASG12C) to phase-III clinical trials informed the biased selection of AMG510 and MRTX849 for this study. Despite this advance, the molecular and atomistic modus operandi of these drugs is yet to come to light. In this study, we employed computational tools to unravel the atomistic interactions and subsequent conformational effects of AMG510 and MRTX849 on the mutant KRASG12C. It was revealed that AMG510 and MRTX849 complexes presented similar total free binding energies, (ΔGbind), of -88.15 ± 5.96 kcal/mol and -88.71 ± 7.70 kcal/mol, respectively. Gly10, Lys16, Thr58, Gly60, Glu62, Glu63, Arg68, Asp69, Met72, His95, Tyr96, Gln99, Arg102 and Val103 interacted prominently with AMG510 and MRTX849. These residues interacted with the pharmacophoric moieties of AMG510 and MRTX849 via hydrogen bonds with decreasing bond lengths at various stages of the simulation. These interactions together with pi-pi stacking, pi-sigma and pi-alkyl interactions induced unfolding of switch I whiles compacting switch II, which could interrupt the binding of effector proteins to these interfaces. These insights present useful atomistic perspectives into the success of AMG510 and MRTX849 which could guide the design of more selective and potent KRAS inhibitors.Communicated by Ramaswamy H. Sarma.
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Affiliation(s)
- Abdul Rashid Issahaku
- Molecular Bio-computation and Drug Design Laboratory, School of Health Sciences, University of KwaZulu-Natal, Durban, South Africa
| | - Elliasu Y Salifu
- Molecular Bio-computation and Drug Design Laboratory, School of Health Sciences, University of KwaZulu-Natal, Durban, South Africa
| | - Mahmoud E S Soliman
- Molecular Bio-computation and Drug Design Laboratory, School of Health Sciences, University of KwaZulu-Natal, Durban, South Africa
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Parker MI, Meyer JE, Golemis EA, Dunbrack RL. Delineating The RAS Conformational Landscape. Cancer Res 2022; 82:2485-2498. [PMID: 35536216 DOI: 10.1158/0008-5472.can-22-0804] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/09/2022] [Revised: 04/25/2022] [Accepted: 04/26/2022] [Indexed: 11/16/2022]
Abstract
Mutations in RAS isoforms (KRAS, NRAS, and HRAS) are among the most frequent oncogenic alterations in many cancers, making these proteins high priority therapeutic targets. Effectively targeting RAS isoforms requires an exact understanding of their active, inactive, and druggable conformations. However, there is no structural catalog of RAS conformations to guide therapeutic targeting or examining the structural impact of RAS mutations. Here we present an expanded classification of RAS conformations based on analyses of the catalytic switch 1 (SW1) and switch 2 (SW2) loops. From 721 human KRAS, NRAS, and HRAS structures available in the Protein Data Bank (206 RAS-protein co-complexes, 190 inhibitor-bound, and 325 unbound, including 204 WT and 517 mutated structures), we created a broad conformational classification based on the spatial positions of Y32 in SW1 and Y71 in SW2. Clustering all well-modeled SW1 and SW2 loops using a density-based machine learning algorithm defined additional conformational subsets, some previously undescribed. Three SW1 conformations and nine SW2 conformations were identified, each associated with different nucleotide states (GTP-bound, nucleotide-free, and GDP-bound) and specific bound proteins or inhibitor sites. The GTP-bound SW1 conformation could be further subdivided based on the hydrogen bond type made between Y32 and the GTP γ-phosphate. Further analysis clarified the catalytic impact of G12D and G12V mutations and the inhibitor chemistries that bind to each druggable RAS conformation. Overall, this study has expanded our understanding of RAS structural biology, which could facilitate future RAS drug discovery.
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Affiliation(s)
- Mitchell I Parker
- Drexel University College of Medicine, Philadelphia, PA, United States
| | - Joshua E Meyer
- Fox Chase Cancer Center, Philadelphia, PA, United States
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Poorebrahim M, Abazari MF, Moradi L, Shahbazi B, Mahmoudi R, Kalhor H, Askari H, Teimoori-Toolabi L. Multi-targeting of K-Ras domains and mutations by peptide and small molecule inhibitors. PLoS Comput Biol 2022; 18:e1009962. [PMID: 35472201 PMCID: PMC9041843 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pcbi.1009962] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/08/2021] [Accepted: 02/24/2022] [Indexed: 11/19/2022] Open
Abstract
K-Ras activating mutations are significantly associated with tumor progression and aggressive metastatic behavior in various human cancers including pancreatic cancer. So far, despite a large number of concerted efforts, targeting of mutant-type K-Ras has not been successful. In this regard, we aimed to target this oncogene by a combinational approach consisting of small peptide and small molecule inhibitors. Based on a comprehensive analysis of structural and physicochemical properties of predominantly K-Ras mutants, an anti-cancer peptide library and a small molecule library were screened to simultaneously target oncogenic mutations and functional domains of mutant-type K-Ras located in the P-loop, switch I, and switch II regions. The selected peptide and small molecule showed notable binding affinities to their corresponding binding sites, and hindered the growth of tumor cells carrying K-RasG12D and K-RasG12C mutations. Of note, the expression of K-Ras downstream genes (i.e., CTNNB1, CCND1) was diminished in the treated Kras-positive cells. In conclusion, our combinational platform signifies a new potential for blockade of oncogenic K-Ras and thereby prevention of tumor progression and metastasis. However, further validations are still required regarding the in vitro and in vivo efficacy and safety of this approach. K-Ras activating mutations are associated with tumor progression and aggressive metastatic behavior in cancers. We aimed to target this mutated protein as an oncogene with small peptides and small molecules. The selected peptide and small molecules by computational methods showed notable binding affinities to mutated and oncogenic K-Ras. Also, they hindered the proliferation of pancreatic tumor cells. These compounds diminished the expression of downstream genes to mutant K-Ras too. Our combinatorial approach introduces new candidates for blockade of oncogenic K-Ras which is observed in many types of cancer. The effect of these compounds should be validated by further in vitro and in vivo analysis.
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Affiliation(s)
- Mansour Poorebrahim
- Targeted Tumor Vaccines Group, Clinical Cooperation Unit Applied Tumor Immunity, German Cancer Research Center (DKFZ), Heidelberg, Germany
| | - Mohammad Foad Abazari
- Research Center for Clinical Virology, Tehran University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran
| | - Leila Moradi
- Molecular Medicine Department, Biotechnology Research Center, Pasteur Institute of Iran, Tehran, Iran
| | - Behzad Shahbazi
- Molecular Medicine Department, Biotechnology Research Center, Pasteur Institute of Iran, Tehran, Iran
| | - Reza Mahmoudi
- Department of Medical Biotechnology, Faculty of Advanced Medical Sciences, Tabriz University of Medical Sciences, Tabriz, Iran
| | - Hourieh Kalhor
- Cellular and Molecular Research Center, Qom University of Medical Sciences, Qom, Iran
| | - Hassan Askari
- Gastroenterohepatology Research Center, Shiraz University of Medical Sciences, Shiraz, Iran
| | - Ladan Teimoori-Toolabi
- Molecular Medicine Department, Biotechnology Research Center, Pasteur Institute of Iran, Tehran, Iran
- * E-mail:
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126
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He X, Du K, Wang Y, Fan J, Li M, Ni D, Lu S, Bian X, Liu Y. Autopromotion of K-Ras4B Feedback Activation Through an SOS-Mediated Long-Range Allosteric Effect. Front Mol Biosci 2022; 9:860962. [PMID: 35463958 PMCID: PMC9023742 DOI: 10.3389/fmolb.2022.860962] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/24/2022] [Accepted: 03/01/2022] [Indexed: 12/14/2022] Open
Abstract
The Ras-specific guanine nucleotide exchange factors Son of Sevenless (SOS) regulates Ras activation by converting inactive GDP-bound to active GTP-bound states. The catalytic activity of Ras is further allosterically regulated by GTP−Ras bound to a distal site through a positive feedback loop. To address the mechanism underlying the long-range allosteric activation of the catalytic K-Ras4B by an additional allosteric GTP–Ras through SOS, we employed molecular dynamics simulation of the K-Ras4BG13D•SOScat complex with and without an allosteric GTP-bound K-Ras4BG13D. We found that the binding of an allosteric GTP−K-Ras4BG13D enhanced the affinity between the catalytic K-Ras4BG13D and SOScat, forming a more stable conformational state. The peeling away of the switch I from the nucleotide binding site facilitated the dissociation of GDP, thereby contributing to the increased nucleotide exchange rate. The community networks further showed stronger edge connection upon allosteric GTP−K-Ras4BG13D binding, which represented an increased interaction between catalytic K-Ras4BG13D and SOScat. Moreover, GTP−K-Ras4BG13D binding transmitted allosteric signaling pathways though the Cdc25 domain of SOS that enhanced the allosteric regulatory from the K-Ras4BG13D allosteric site to the catalytic site. This study may provide an in-depth mechanism for abnormal activation and allosteric regulation of K-Ras4BG13D.
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Affiliation(s)
- Xuan He
- Department of Pharmacy, Ruijin Hospital, Shanghai Jiao Tong University, School of Medicine, Shanghai, China
| | - Kui Du
- School of Chemistry and Chemical Engineering, Shaoxing University, Shaoxing, China
| | - Yuanhao Wang
- Department of Pathophysiology, Key Laboratory of Cell Differentiation and Apoptosis of Chinese Ministry of Education, School of Medicine, Shanghai Jiao Tong University, Shanghai, China
| | - Jigang Fan
- Department of Pathophysiology, Key Laboratory of Cell Differentiation and Apoptosis of Chinese Ministry of Education, School of Medicine, Shanghai Jiao Tong University, Shanghai, China
| | - Mingyu Li
- Department of Pathophysiology, Key Laboratory of Cell Differentiation and Apoptosis of Chinese Ministry of Education, School of Medicine, Shanghai Jiao Tong University, Shanghai, China
| | - Duan Ni
- The Charles Perkins Centre, University of Sydney, Sydney, NSW, Australia
| | - Shaoyong Lu
- Department of Pathophysiology, Key Laboratory of Cell Differentiation and Apoptosis of Chinese Ministry of Education, School of Medicine, Shanghai Jiao Tong University, Shanghai, China
- Medicinal Chemistry and Bioinformatics Center, Shanghai Jiao Tong University, School of Medicine, Shanghai, China
- *Correspondence: Shaoyong Lu, ; Xiaolan Bian, ; Yaqin Liu,
| | - Xiaolan Bian
- Department of Pharmacy, Ruijin Hospital, Shanghai Jiao Tong University, School of Medicine, Shanghai, China
- *Correspondence: Shaoyong Lu, ; Xiaolan Bian, ; Yaqin Liu,
| | - Yaqin Liu
- Medicinal Chemistry and Bioinformatics Center, Shanghai Jiao Tong University, School of Medicine, Shanghai, China
- *Correspondence: Shaoyong Lu, ; Xiaolan Bian, ; Yaqin Liu,
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127
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RAS activation induces synthetic lethality of MEK inhibition with mitochondrial oxidative metabolism in acute myeloid leukemia. Leukemia 2022; 36:1237-1252. [PMID: 35354920 PMCID: PMC9061298 DOI: 10.1038/s41375-022-01541-0] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/07/2021] [Revised: 02/22/2022] [Accepted: 03/07/2022] [Indexed: 12/12/2022]
Abstract
Despite recent advances in acute myeloid leukemia (AML) molecular characterization and targeted therapies, a majority of AML cases still lack therapeutically actionable targets. In 127 AML cases with unmet therapeutic needs, as defined by the exclusion of ELN favorable cases and of FLT3-ITD mutations, we identified 51 (40%) cases with alterations in RAS pathway genes (RAS+, mostly NF1, NRAS, KRAS, and PTPN11 genes). In 79 homogeneously treated AML patients from this cohort, RAS+ status were associated with higher white blood cell count, higher LDH, and reduced survival. In AML models of oncogenic addiction to RAS-MEK signaling, the MEK inhibitor trametinib demonstrated antileukemic activity in vitro and in vivo. However, the efficacy of trametinib was heterogeneous in ex vivo cultures of primary RAS+ AML patient specimens. From repurposing drug screens in RAS-activated AML cells, we identified pyrvinium pamoate, an anti-helminthic agent efficiently inhibiting the growth of RAS+ primary AML cells ex vivo, preferentially in trametinib-resistant PTPN11- or KRAS-mutated samples. Metabolic and genetic complementarity between trametinib and pyrvinium pamoate translated into anti-AML synergy in vitro. Moreover, this combination inhibited the propagation of RA+ AML cells in vivo in mice, indicating a potential for future clinical development of this strategy in AML.
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128
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Koperniku A, Garcia AA, Mochly-Rosen D. Boosting the Discovery of Small Molecule Inhibitors of Glucose-6-Phosphate Dehydrogenase for the Treatment of Cancer, Infectious Diseases, and Inflammation. J Med Chem 2022; 65:4403-4423. [PMID: 35239352 PMCID: PMC9553131 DOI: 10.1021/acs.jmedchem.1c01577] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/14/2023]
Abstract
We present an overview of small molecule glucose-6-phosphate dehydrogenase (G6PD) inhibitors that have potential for use in the treatment of cancer, infectious diseases, and inflammation. Both steroidal and nonsteroidal inhibitors have been identified with steroidal inhibitors lacking target selectivity. The main scaffolds encountered in nonsteroidal inhibitors are quinazolinones and benzothiazinones/benzothiazepinones. Three molecules show promise for development as antiparasitic (25 and 29) and anti-inflammatory (32) agents. Regarding modality of inhibition (MOI), steroidal inhibitors have been shown to be uncompetitive and reversible. Nonsteroidal small molecules have exhibited all types of MOI. Strategies to boost the discovery of small molecule G6PD inhibitors include exploration of structure-activity relationships (SARs) for established inhibitors, employment of high-throughput screening (HTS), and fragment-based drug discovery (FBDD) for the identification of new hits. We discuss the challenges and gaps associated with drug discovery efforts of G6PD inhibitors from in silico, in vitro, and in cellulo to in vivo studies.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ana Koperniku
- Department of Chemical and Systems Biology, School of Medicine, Stanford University, 269 Campus Dr, Stanford, CA 94305, USA
- Corresponding Author: Ana Koperniku,
| | - Adriana A. Garcia
- Department of Chemical and Systems Biology, School of Medicine, Stanford University, 269 Campus Dr, Stanford, CA 94305, USA
| | - Daria Mochly-Rosen
- Department of Chemical and Systems Biology, School of Medicine, Stanford University, 269 Campus Dr, Stanford, CA 94305, USA
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129
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Salem ME, El-Refai SM, Sha W, Puccini A, Grothey A, George TJ, Hwang JJ, O'Neil B, Barrett AS, Kadakia KC, Musselwhite LW, Raghavan D, Van Cutsem E, Tabernero J, Tie J. Landscape of KRASG12C, Associated Genomic Alterations, and Interrelation With Immuno-Oncology Biomarkers in KRAS-Mutated Cancers. JCO Precis Oncol 2022; 6:e2100245. [PMID: 35319967 PMCID: PMC8966967 DOI: 10.1200/po.21.00245] [Citation(s) in RCA: 33] [Impact Index Per Article: 16.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/14/2022] Open
Abstract
Promising single-agent activity from sotorasib and adagrasib in KRASG12C-mutant tumors has provided clinical evidence of effective KRAS signaling inhibition. However, comprehensive analysis of KRAS-variant prevalence, genomic alterations, and the relationship between KRAS and immuno-oncology biomarkers is lacking.
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Affiliation(s)
| | | | - Wei Sha
- Levine Cancer Institute, Atrium Health, Charlotte, NC
| | - Alberto Puccini
- University of Genoa, Ospedale Policlinico San Martino IRCCS, Genoa, Italy
| | | | | | - Jimmy J Hwang
- Levine Cancer Institute, Atrium Health, Charlotte, NC
| | | | | | | | | | | | - Eric Van Cutsem
- University Hospitals Gasthuisberg, Leuven & KULeuven, Leuven, Belgium
| | - Josep Tabernero
- Vall d'Hebron Hospital Campus and Institute of Oncology (VHIO), IOB-Quiron, UVic-UCC, Barcelona, Spain
| | - Jeanne Tie
- Peter MacCallum Cancer Centre, Melbourne, Australia.,Walter + Eliza Hall Institute of Medical Research, Melbourne, Australia
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130
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KRAS is vulnerable to reversible switch-II pocket engagement in cells. Nat Chem Biol 2022; 18:596-604. [PMID: 35314814 PMCID: PMC9135634 DOI: 10.1038/s41589-022-00985-w] [Citation(s) in RCA: 46] [Impact Index Per Article: 23.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/14/2021] [Accepted: 01/28/2022] [Indexed: 12/15/2022]
Abstract
Current small-molecule inhibitors of KRAS(G12C) bind irreversibly in the switch-II pocket (SII-P), exploiting the strong nucleophilicity of the acquired cysteine as well as the preponderance of the GDP-bound form of this mutant. Nevertheless, many oncogenic KRAS mutants lack these two features, and it remains unknown whether targeting the SII-P is a practical therapeutic approach for KRAS mutants beyond G12C. Here we use NMR spectroscopy and a cellular KRAS engagement assay to address this question by examining a collection of SII-P ligands from the literature and from our own laboratory. We show that the SII-Ps of many KRAS hotspot (G12, G13, Q61) mutants are accessible using noncovalent ligands, and that this accessibility is not necessarily coupled to the GDP state of KRAS. The results we describe here emphasize the SII-P as a privileged drug-binding site on KRAS and unveil new therapeutic opportunities in RAS-driven cancer. ![]()
The use of NMR spectroscopy and development of a cellular BRET KRAS engagement assay revealed that noncovalent ligands can access the switch-II pocket of KRAS hotspot mutants.
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131
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Bum-Erdene K, Ghozayel MK, Xu D, Meroueh SO. Covalent Fragment Screening Identifies Rgl2 RalGEF Cysteine for Targeted Covalent Inhibition of Ral GTPase Activation. ChemMedChem 2022; 17:e202100750. [PMID: 35061330 PMCID: PMC9070689 DOI: 10.1002/cmdc.202100750] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/11/2021] [Revised: 01/17/2022] [Indexed: 11/09/2022]
Abstract
Ral GTPases belong to the RAS superfamily, and they are directly activated by K-RAS. The RalGEF pathway is one of the three major K-RAS signaling pathways. Ral GTPases do not possess a cysteine nucleophile to develop a covalent inhibitor following the strategy that led to a K-RAS G12C therapeutic agent. However, several cysteine amino acids exist on the surface of guanine exchange factors that activate Ral GTPases, such as Rgl2. Here, we screen a library of cysteine electrophile fragments to determine if covalent bond formation at one of the Rgl2 surface cysteines could inhibit Ral GTPase activation. We found several chloroacetamide and acrylamide fragments that inhibited Ral GTPase exchange by Rgl2. Site-directed mutagenesis showed that covalent bond formation at Cys-284, but not other cysteines, leads to inhibition of Ral activation by Rgl2. Follow-up time- and concentration-dependent studies of derivatives identified by substructure search of commercial libraries further confirmed Cys-284 as the reaction site and identified the indoline fragments as the most promising series for further development. Cys-284 is located outside of the Ral ⋅ Rgl2 interface on a loop that has several residues that come in direct contact with Ral GTPases. Our allosteric covalent fragment inhibitors provide a starting point for the development of small-molecule covalent inhibitors to probe Ral GTPases in animal models.
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Affiliation(s)
- Khuchtumur Bum-Erdene
- Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, Indiana University School of Medicine, 635 Barnhill Drive, MS4021, Indianapolis, IN, 46202, USA
| | - Mona K Ghozayel
- Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, Indiana University School of Medicine, 635 Barnhill Drive, MS4021, Indianapolis, IN, 46202, USA
| | - David Xu
- Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, Indiana University School of Medicine, 635 Barnhill Drive, MS4021, Indianapolis, IN, 46202, USA
| | - Samy O Meroueh
- Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, Indiana University School of Medicine, 635 Barnhill Drive, MS4021, Indianapolis, IN, 46202, USA
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132
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Dong XD, Zhang M, Cai CY, Teng QX, Wang JQ, Fu YG, Cui Q, Patel K, Wang DT, Chen ZS. Overexpression of ABCB1 Associated With the Resistance to the KRAS-G12C Specific Inhibitor ARS-1620 in Cancer Cells. Front Pharmacol 2022; 13:843829. [PMID: 35281897 PMCID: PMC8905313 DOI: 10.3389/fphar.2022.843829] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/27/2021] [Accepted: 02/08/2022] [Indexed: 12/12/2022] Open
Abstract
The KRAS-G12C inhibitor ARS-1620, is a novel specific covalent inhibitor of KRAS-G12C, possessing a strong targeting inhibitory effect on KRAS-G12C mutant tumors. Overexpression of ATP-binding cassette super-family B member 1 (ABCB1/P-gp) is one of the pivotal factors contributing to multidrug resistance (MDR), and its association with KRAS mutations has been extensively studied. However, the investigations about the connection between the inhibitors of mutant KRAS and the level of ABC transporters are still missing. In this study, we investigated the potential drug resistance mechanism of ARS-1620 associated with ABCB1. The desensitization effect of ARS-1620 was remarkably intensified in both drug-induced ABCB1-overexpressing cancer cells and ABCB1-transfected cells as confirmed by cell viability assay results. This desensitization of ARS-1620 could be completely reversed when co-treated with an ABCB1 reversal agent. In mechanism-based studies, [3H] -paclitaxel accumulation assay revealed that ARS-1620 could be competitively pumped out by ABCB1. Additionally, it was found that ARS-1620 remarkably stimulated ATPase activity of ABCB1, and the HPLC drug accumulation assay displayed that ARS-1620 was actively transported out of ABCB1-overexpressing cancer cells. ARS-1620 acquired a high docking score in computer molecular docking analysis, implying ARS-1620 could intensely interact with ABCB1 transporters. Taken all together, these data indicated that ARS-1620 is a substrate for ABCB1, and the potential influence of ARS-1620-related cancer therapy on ABCB1-overexpressing cancer cells should be considered in future clinical applications.
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Affiliation(s)
- Xing-Duo Dong
- Department of Pharmaceutical Sciences, College of Pharmacy and Health Sciences, St. John's University, Queens, NY, United States
| | - Meng Zhang
- Department of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Shenzhen Hospital, Southern Medical University, Shenzhen, China
| | - Chao-Yun Cai
- Department of Pharmaceutical Sciences, College of Pharmacy and Health Sciences, St. John's University, Queens, NY, United States
| | - Qiu-Xu Teng
- Department of Pharmaceutical Sciences, College of Pharmacy and Health Sciences, St. John's University, Queens, NY, United States
| | - Jing-Quan Wang
- Department of Pharmaceutical Sciences, College of Pharmacy and Health Sciences, St. John's University, Queens, NY, United States
| | - Yi-Ge Fu
- Department of Pharmaceutical Sciences, College of Pharmacy and Health Sciences, St. John's University, Queens, NY, United States
| | - Qingbin Cui
- Department of Pharmaceutical Sciences, College of Pharmacy and Health Sciences, St. John's University, Queens, NY, United States.,School of Public Health, Guangzhou Medical University, Guangzhou, China
| | - Ketankumar Patel
- Department of Pharmaceutical Sciences, College of Pharmacy and Health Sciences, St. John's University, Queens, NY, United States
| | - Dong-Tao Wang
- Department of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Shenzhen Hospital, Southern Medical University, Shenzhen, China.,Department of the Ministry of Science and Technology, Guangxi International Zhuang Medicine Hospital, Nanning, China
| | - Zhe-Sheng Chen
- Department of Pharmaceutical Sciences, College of Pharmacy and Health Sciences, St. John's University, Queens, NY, United States
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133
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Reita D, Pabst L, Pencreach E, Guérin E, Dano L, Rimelen V, Voegeli AC, Vallat L, Mascaux C, Beau-Faller M. Direct Targeting KRAS Mutation in Non-Small Cell Lung Cancer: Focus on Resistance. Cancers (Basel) 2022; 14:cancers14051321. [PMID: 35267628 PMCID: PMC8909472 DOI: 10.3390/cancers14051321] [Citation(s) in RCA: 25] [Impact Index Per Article: 12.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/21/2021] [Revised: 02/15/2022] [Accepted: 02/17/2022] [Indexed: 12/30/2022] Open
Abstract
Simple Summary KRAS is the most frequently mutated oncogene in non-small cell lung cancers (NSCLC), with a frequency around 30%, and among them KRAS G12C mutation occurs in 11% of cases. KRAS mutations were for a long time considered to be non-targetable alterations or “undruggable”. Direct inhibition is actually developped with switch-II mutant selective covalent KRAS G12C inhibitors with small molecules such as sotorasib or adagrasib preventing conversion of the mutant protein to GTP-bound active state. Little is known about primary or acquired resistance. Acquired resistance does occur and could be related to genetic alterations in the nucleotide exchange function or adaptive mechanisms either in down-stream pathways or in newly expressed KRAS G12C mutation. Mechanisms of resistance could be classified as “on-target” mechanisms, involving KRAS G12C alterations, or “off-target” mechanisms, involving other gene alterations and/or phenotypic changes. Abstract KRAS is the most frequently mutated oncogene in non-small cell lung cancers (NSCLC), with a frequency of around 30%, and encoding a GTPAse that cycles between active form (GTP-bound) to inactive form (GDP-bound). The KRAS mutations favor the active form with inhibition of GTPAse activity. KRAS mutations are often with poor response of EGFR targeted therapies. KRAS mutations are good predictive factor for immunotherapy. The lack of success with direct targeting of KRAS proteins, downstream inhibition of KRAS effector pathways, and other strategies contributed to a focus on developing mutation-specific KRAS inhibitors. KRAS p.G12C mutation is one of the most frequent KRAS mutation in NSCLC, especially in current and former smokers (over 40%), which occurs among approximately 12–14% of NSCLC tumors. The mutated cysteine resides next to a pocket (P2) of the switch II region, and P2 is present only in the inactive GDP-bound KRAS. Small molecules such as sotorasib are now the first targeted drugs for KRAS G12C mutation, preventing conversion of the mutant protein to GTP-bound active state. Little is known about primary or acquired resistance. Acquired resistance does occur and may be due to genetic alterations in the nucleotide exchange function or adaptative mechanisms in either downstream pathways or in newly expressed KRAS G12C mutation.
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Affiliation(s)
- Damien Reita
- Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, Strasbourg University Hospital, CEDEX, 67098 Strasbourg, France; (D.R.); (E.P.); (E.G.); (L.D.); (V.R.); (A.-C.V.); (L.V.)
- Bio-Imagery and Pathology (LBP), UMR CNRS 7021, Strasbourg University, 67400 Illkirch-Graffenstaden, France
| | - Lucile Pabst
- Department of Pneumology, Strasbourg University Hospital, CEDEX, 67091 Strasbourg, France; (L.P.); (C.M.)
| | - Erwan Pencreach
- Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, Strasbourg University Hospital, CEDEX, 67098 Strasbourg, France; (D.R.); (E.P.); (E.G.); (L.D.); (V.R.); (A.-C.V.); (L.V.)
- Laboratory Streinth (STress REsponse and INnovative THerapy Against Cancer), Université de Strasbourg, Inserm UMR_S 1113, IRFAC, ITI InnoVec, 3 Avenue Molière, 67200 Strasbourg, France
| | - Eric Guérin
- Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, Strasbourg University Hospital, CEDEX, 67098 Strasbourg, France; (D.R.); (E.P.); (E.G.); (L.D.); (V.R.); (A.-C.V.); (L.V.)
- Laboratory Streinth (STress REsponse and INnovative THerapy Against Cancer), Université de Strasbourg, Inserm UMR_S 1113, IRFAC, ITI InnoVec, 3 Avenue Molière, 67200 Strasbourg, France
| | - Laurent Dano
- Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, Strasbourg University Hospital, CEDEX, 67098 Strasbourg, France; (D.R.); (E.P.); (E.G.); (L.D.); (V.R.); (A.-C.V.); (L.V.)
| | - Valérie Rimelen
- Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, Strasbourg University Hospital, CEDEX, 67098 Strasbourg, France; (D.R.); (E.P.); (E.G.); (L.D.); (V.R.); (A.-C.V.); (L.V.)
| | - Anne-Claire Voegeli
- Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, Strasbourg University Hospital, CEDEX, 67098 Strasbourg, France; (D.R.); (E.P.); (E.G.); (L.D.); (V.R.); (A.-C.V.); (L.V.)
| | - Laurent Vallat
- Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, Strasbourg University Hospital, CEDEX, 67098 Strasbourg, France; (D.R.); (E.P.); (E.G.); (L.D.); (V.R.); (A.-C.V.); (L.V.)
| | - Céline Mascaux
- Department of Pneumology, Strasbourg University Hospital, CEDEX, 67091 Strasbourg, France; (L.P.); (C.M.)
- Laboratory Streinth (STress REsponse and INnovative THerapy Against Cancer), Université de Strasbourg, Inserm UMR_S 1113, IRFAC, ITI InnoVec, 3 Avenue Molière, 67200 Strasbourg, France
| | - Michèle Beau-Faller
- Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, Strasbourg University Hospital, CEDEX, 67098 Strasbourg, France; (D.R.); (E.P.); (E.G.); (L.D.); (V.R.); (A.-C.V.); (L.V.)
- Laboratory Streinth (STress REsponse and INnovative THerapy Against Cancer), Université de Strasbourg, Inserm UMR_S 1113, IRFAC, ITI InnoVec, 3 Avenue Molière, 67200 Strasbourg, France
- Correspondence: ; Tel.: +33-3-8812-8457
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134
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Cho YS, Kim GC, Lee HM, Kim B, Kim HR, Chung SW, Chang HW, Ko YG, Lee YS, Kim SW, Byun Y, Kim SY. Albumin metabolism targeted peptide-drug conjugate strategy for targeting pan-KRAS mutant cancer. J Control Release 2022; 344:26-38. [PMID: 35202743 DOI: 10.1016/j.jconrel.2022.02.026] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/27/2021] [Revised: 12/31/2021] [Accepted: 02/19/2022] [Indexed: 12/25/2022]
Abstract
Despite recent breakthroughs in the development of direct KRAS inhibitors and modulators, no drugs targeting pan-KRAS mutant cancers are clinically available. Here, we report a novel strategy to treat pan-KRAS cancers using a caspase-3 cleavable peptide-drug conjugate that exploits enhanced albumin metabolism in KRAS altered cancers to deliver a cytotoxic agent that can induce a widespread bystander killing effect in tumor cells. Increased albumin metabolism in KRAS mutant cancer cells induced apoptosis via the intracellular uptake of albumin-bound MPD1. This allowed caspase-3 upregulation activated MPD1 to release the payload and exert the non-selective killing of neighboring cancer cells. MPD1 exhibited potent and durable antitumor efficacy in mouse xenograft models with different KRAS genotypes. An augmentation of anti-cancer efficacy was achieved by the bystander killing effect derived from the caspase-3 mediated activation of MPD1. In summary, albumin metabolism-induced apoptosis, together with the bystander killing effect of MPD1 boosted by caspase-3 mediated activation, intensified the efficacy of MPD1 in KRAS mutant cancers. These findings suggest that this novel peptide-drug conjugate could be a promising breakthrough for the treatment in the targeting of pan-KRAS mutant cancers.
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Affiliation(s)
- Young Seok Cho
- Department of Molecular Medicine and Biopharmaceutical Sciences, Graduate School of Convergent Science and Technology, Seoul National University, Seoul 08826, Republic of Korea
| | - Gui Chul Kim
- Department of Otolaryngology, Asan Medical Center, University of Ulsan College of Medicine, Seoul 05505, Republic of Korea
| | - Hye Min Lee
- Department of Otolaryngology, Asan Medical Center, University of Ulsan College of Medicine, Seoul 05505, Republic of Korea
| | - Byoungmo Kim
- Research Institute of Pharmaceutical Sciences, College of Pharmacy, Seoul National University, Seoul 08826, Republic of Korea
| | - Ha Rin Kim
- Research Institute of Pharmaceutical Sciences, College of Pharmacy, Seoul National University, Seoul 08826, Republic of Korea
| | - Seung Woo Chung
- Center for Nanomedicine, Wilmer Eye Institute and Department of Ophthalmology, Johns Hopkins University School of Medicine, Baltimore, MD 21231, USA, Seoul 08826, Republic of Korea
| | - Hyo Won Chang
- Department of Otolaryngology, Asan Medical Center, University of Ulsan College of Medicine, Seoul 05505, Republic of Korea
| | - Yoon Gun Ko
- Pharosgen Co.Ltd, 2-404 Jangji-dong 892, Seoul 05852, Republic of Korea
| | - Yoon Se Lee
- Department of Otolaryngology, Asan Medical Center, University of Ulsan College of Medicine, Seoul 05505, Republic of Korea
| | - Seong Who Kim
- Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, Asan Medical Center, University of Ulsan College of Medicine, Seoul 05505, Republic of Korea
| | - Youngro Byun
- Research Institute of Pharmaceutical Sciences, College of Pharmacy, Seoul National University, Seoul 08826, Republic of Korea.
| | - Sang Yoon Kim
- Department of Otolaryngology, Asan Medical Center, University of Ulsan College of Medicine, Seoul 05505, Republic of Korea.
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135
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Ou SHI, Jänne PA, Leal TA, Rybkin II, Sabari JK, Barve MA, Bazhenova LA, Johnson ML, Velastegui KL, Cilliers C, Christensen JG, Yan X, Chao RC, Papadopoulos KP. First-in-Human Phase I/IB Dose-Finding Study of Adagrasib (MRTX849) in Patients With Advanced KRASG12C Solid Tumors (KRYSTAL-1). J Clin Oncol 2022; 40:2530-2538. [PMID: 35167329 PMCID: PMC9362872 DOI: 10.1200/jco.21.02752] [Citation(s) in RCA: 106] [Impact Index Per Article: 53.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/20/2022] Open
Abstract
Adagrasib (MRTX849) is an oral, highly selective, small-molecule, covalent inhibitor of KRASG12C. We report results from a phase I/IB study of adagrasib in non–small-cell lung cancer, colorectal cancer, and other solid tumors harboring the KRASG12C mutation.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sai-Hong Ignatius Ou
- University of California Irvine School of Medicine and Chao Family Comprehensive Cancer Center, Orange, CA
| | - Pasi A Jänne
- Lowe Center for Thoracic Oncology, Dana-Farber Cancer Institute, Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA
| | - Ticiana A Leal
- University of Wisconsin Carbone Cancer Center, Madison, WI
| | | | - Joshua K Sabari
- Perlmutter Cancer Center New York University Langone Health, New York, NY
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136
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Targeting KRAS Regulation with PolyPurine Reverse Hoogsteen Oligonucleotides. Int J Mol Sci 2022; 23:ijms23042097. [PMID: 35216221 PMCID: PMC8876201 DOI: 10.3390/ijms23042097] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/31/2021] [Revised: 02/02/2022] [Accepted: 02/09/2022] [Indexed: 02/04/2023] Open
Abstract
KRAS is a GTPase involved in the proliferation signaling of several growth factors. The KRAS gene is GC-rich, containing regions with known and putative G-quadruplex (G4) forming regions. Within the middle of the G-rich proximal promoter, stabilization of the physiologically active G4mid structure downregulates transcription of KRAS; the function and formation of other G4s within the gene are unknown. Herein we identify three putative G4-forming sequences (G4FS) within the KRAS gene, explore their G4 formation, and develop oligonucleotides targeting these three regions and the G4mid forming sequence. We tested Polypurine Reverse Hoogsteen hairpins (PPRHs) for their effects on KRAS regulation via enhancing G4 formation or displacing G-rich DNA strands, downregulating KRAS transcription and mediating an anti-proliferative effect. Five PPRH were designed, two against the KRAS promoter G4mid and three others against putative G4FS in the distal promoter, intron 1 and exon 5. PPRH binding was confirmed by gel electrophoresis. The effect on KRAS transcription was examined by luciferase, FRET Melt2, qRT-PCR. Cytotoxicity was evaluated in pancreatic and ovarian cancer cells. PPRHs decreased activity of a luciferase construct driven by the KRAS promoter. PPRH selectively suppressed proliferation in KRAS dependent cancer cells. PPRH demonstrated synergistic activity with a KRAS promoter selective G4-stabilizing compound, NSC 317605, in KRAS-dependent pancreatic cells. PPRHs selectively stabilize G4 formation within the KRAS mid promoter region and represent an innovative approach to both G4-stabilization and to KRAS modulation with potential for development into novel therapeutics.
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137
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Li Y, Han L, Zhang Z. Understanding the influence of AMG 510 on the structure of KRASG12C empowered by molecular dynamics simulation. Comput Struct Biotechnol J 2022; 20:1056-1067. [PMID: 35284050 PMCID: PMC8894142 DOI: 10.1016/j.csbj.2022.02.018] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/29/2021] [Revised: 02/21/2022] [Accepted: 02/21/2022] [Indexed: 02/07/2023] Open
Affiliation(s)
- Yu Li
- State Key Laboratory of Agrobiotechnology, College of Biological Sciences, China Agricultural University, Beijing 100193, China
| | - Lei Han
- Cancer Molecular Diagnostics Core, Tianjin Medical University Cancer Institute & Hospital, National Clinical Research Center of Cancer, Key Laboratory of Cancer Prevention and Therapy, Key Laboratory of Cancer Immunology and Biotherapy, Tianjin, China
- Tianjin's Clinical Research Center for Cancer, Tianjin, China
- Corresponding authors at: Cancer Molecular Diagnostics Core, Tianjin Medical University Cancer Institute & Hospital, National Clinical Research Center of Cancer, Key Laboratory of Cancer Prevention and Therapy, Key Laboratory of Cancer Immunology and Biotherapy, Tianjin, China (L. Han); State Key Laboratory of Agrobiotechnology, College of Biological Sciences, China Agricultural University, Beijing 100193, China (Z. Zhang).
| | - Ziding Zhang
- State Key Laboratory of Agrobiotechnology, College of Biological Sciences, China Agricultural University, Beijing 100193, China
- Corresponding authors at: Cancer Molecular Diagnostics Core, Tianjin Medical University Cancer Institute & Hospital, National Clinical Research Center of Cancer, Key Laboratory of Cancer Prevention and Therapy, Key Laboratory of Cancer Immunology and Biotherapy, Tianjin, China (L. Han); State Key Laboratory of Agrobiotechnology, College of Biological Sciences, China Agricultural University, Beijing 100193, China (Z. Zhang).
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138
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Corral de la Fuente E, Olmedo Garcia ME, Gomez Rueda A, Lage Y, Garrido P. Targeting KRAS in Non-Small Cell Lung Cancer. Front Oncol 2022; 11:792635. [PMID: 35083149 PMCID: PMC8784727 DOI: 10.3389/fonc.2021.792635] [Citation(s) in RCA: 13] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/10/2021] [Accepted: 12/13/2021] [Indexed: 12/12/2022] Open
Abstract
Kirsten Rat Sarcoma viral oncogene homolog (KRAS) is the most frequently altered oncogene in Non-Small Cell Lung Cancer (NSCLC). KRAS mutant tumors constitute a heterogeneous group of diseases, different from other oncogene-derived tumors in terms of biology and response to treatment, which hinders the development of effective drugs against KRAS. Therefore, for decades, despite enormous efforts invested in the development of drugs aimed at inhibiting KRAS or its signaling pathways, KRAS was considered to be undruggable. Recently, the discovery of a new pocket under the effector binding switch II region of KRAS G12C has allowed the development of direct KRAS inhibitors such as sotorasib, the first FDA-approved drug targeting KRAS G12C, or adagrasib, initiating a new exciting era. However, treatment with targeted KRAS G12C inhibitors also leads to resistance, and understanding the possible mechanisms of resistance and which drugs could be useful to overcome it is key. Among others, KRAS G12C (ON) tricomplex inhibitors and different combination therapy strategies are being analyzed in clinical trials. Another area of interest is the potential role of co-mutations in treatment selection, particularly immunotherapy. The best first-line strategy remains to be determined and, due to the heterogeneity of KRAS, is likely to be based on combination therapies.
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Affiliation(s)
- Elena Corral de la Fuente
- Early Phase Clinical Drug Development in Oncology, South Texas Accelerated Research Therapeutics (START) Madrid-Centro Integral Oncológico Clara Campal (CIOCC), Centro Integral Oncológico Clara Campal, Madrid, Spain
| | | | - Ana Gomez Rueda
- Department of Medical Oncology, Ramón y Cajal University Hospital, Madrid, Spain
| | - Yolanda Lage
- Department of Medical Oncology, Ramón y Cajal University Hospital, Madrid, Spain
| | - Pilar Garrido
- Department of Medical Oncology, Ramón y Cajal University Hospital, Madrid, Spain
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139
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Haider K, Sharma A, Yar MS, Yakkala PA, Shafi S, Kamal A. Novel approaches for the development of direct KRAS inhibitors: structural insights and drug design. Expert Opin Drug Discov 2022; 17:247-257. [PMID: 35084268 DOI: 10.1080/17460441.2022.2029842] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/04/2022]
Abstract
INTRODUCTION Hyperactivated RAS signaling is reported in 13% of all human cancers, in which ~80% resulted due to KRAS mutations alone. Direct inhibition of KRAS is an important aspect in treating KRAS-related tumors. Despite the efforts of more than four decades, not many KRAS inhibitors have been successful in obtaining clinical approval, except the very recent FDA approval for sotorasib. In recent years, the understanding of structural insights and allosteric pocket identification at catalytic sites of KRAS are likely to provide an excellent opportunity for the development of much more effective clinical candidates. AREA COVERED The presented review article mainly summarizes the developments of small molecule KRAS inhibitors as drug candidates and rational approaches that are being utilized for the selective targeting of KRAS signaling in the mutant cancer cells. EXPERT OPINION After the initial success in targeting the mutant KRAS G12C variants, the search has been shifted to address the challenges concerning the resistance and efficacy of small molecule KRAS inhibitors. However, the contribution of other KRAS mutations at G12V, G13C, and G13D variants causing cancers is much higher than the mutations at G12C. In view of this aspect, specific attention is required to target all other mutations as well. Accordingly, for the development of KRAS targeted therapies, the design of small molecule inhibitors that can inhibit KRAS signaling and as well as target inhibition of other signaling pathways like RAS-SOS and RAS-PI3K has to be explored extensively.
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Affiliation(s)
- Kashif Haider
- Department of Pharmaceutical Chemistry, School of Pharmaceutical Education and Research, Jamia Hamdard, New Delhi, India
| | - Anku Sharma
- Department of Pharmaceutical Chemistry, School of Pharmaceutical Education and Research, Jamia Hamdard, New Delhi, India
| | - M Shahar Yar
- Department of Pharmaceutical Chemistry, School of Pharmaceutical Education and Research, Jamia Hamdard, New Delhi, India.,Centre for Excellence for Biomaterials Engineering, Faculty of Applied Sciences, Aimst University, Bedong, Malaysia
| | - Prasanna Anjaneyulu Yakkala
- Department of Pharmaceutical Chemistry, School of Pharmaceutical Education and Research, Jamia Hamdard, New Delhi, India
| | - Syed Shafi
- Department of Chemistry, School of Chemical and Life Sciences, Jamia Hamdard, New Delhi, India
| | - Ahmed Kamal
- Department of Pharmaceutical Chemistry, School of Pharmaceutical Education and Research, Jamia Hamdard, New Delhi, India.,Department of Pharmacy, Birla Institute of Technology & Science, Pilani, Hyderabad Campus, India
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140
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Tang KC, Cao J, Boatner LM, Li L, Farhi J, Houk KN, Spangle J, Backus KM, Raj M. Tunable Amine-Reactive Electrophiles for Selective Profiling of Lysine. Angew Chem Int Ed Engl 2022; 61:e202112107. [PMID: 34762358 PMCID: PMC10111338 DOI: 10.1002/anie.202112107] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/07/2021] [Revised: 10/19/2021] [Indexed: 12/26/2022]
Abstract
Proteome profiling by activated esters identified >9000 ligandable lysines but they are limited as covalent inhibitors due to poor hydrolytic stability. Here we report our efforts to design and discover a new series of tunable amine-reactive electrophiles (TAREs) for selective and robust labeling of lysine. The major challenges in developing selective probes for lysine are the high nucleophilicity of cysteines and poor hydrolytic stability. Our work circumvents these challenges by a unique design of the TAREs that form stable adducts with lysine and on reaction with cysteine generate another reactive electrophiles for lysine. We highlight that TAREs exhibit substantially high hydrolytic stability as compared to the activated esters and are non-cytotoxic thus have the potential to act as covalent ligands. We applied these alternative TAREs for the intracellular labeling of proteins in different cell lines, and for the selective identification of lysines in the human proteome on a global scale.
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Affiliation(s)
- Kuei-Chien Tang
- Present address: Department of Chemistry, Emory University, Atlanta, GA, 30322, USA
| | - Jian Cao
- Department of Chemistry and Biochemistry, College of Arts and Sciences, UCLA, Los Angeles, CA, 90095, USA
| | - Lisa M Boatner
- Department of Chemistry and Biochemistry, College of Arts and Sciences, UCLA, Los Angeles, CA, 90095, USA
- Present address: Department of Biological Chemistry, David Geffen School of Medicine, UCLA, Los Angeles, CA, 90095, USA
| | - Linwei Li
- Department of Chemistry and Biochemistry, College of Arts and Sciences, UCLA, Los Angeles, CA, 90095, USA
| | - Jonathan Farhi
- Department of Radiation Oncology, Emory University, Atlanta, GA, 30322, USA
| | - Kendall N Houk
- Department of Chemistry and Biochemistry, College of Arts and Sciences, UCLA, Los Angeles, CA, 90095, USA
| | - Jennifer Spangle
- Department of Radiation Oncology, Emory University, Atlanta, GA, 30322, USA
| | - Keriann M Backus
- Department of Chemistry and Biochemistry, College of Arts and Sciences, UCLA, Los Angeles, CA, 90095, USA
- Present address: Department of Biological Chemistry, David Geffen School of Medicine, UCLA, Los Angeles, CA, 90095, USA
| | - Monika Raj
- Present address: Department of Chemistry, Emory University, Atlanta, GA, 30322, USA
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141
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Tang K, Cao J, Boatner LM, Li L, Farhi J, Houk KN, Spangle J, Backus KM, Raj M. Tunable Amine‐Reactive Electrophiles for Selective Profiling of Lysine. Angew Chem Int Ed Engl 2022. [DOI: 10.1002/ange.202112107] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/11/2022]
Affiliation(s)
- Kuei‐Chien Tang
- Present address: Department of Chemistry Emory University Atlanta GA 30322 USA
| | - Jian Cao
- Department of Chemistry and Biochemistry College of Arts and Sciences UCLA Los Angeles CA 90095 USA
| | - Lisa M. Boatner
- Department of Chemistry and Biochemistry College of Arts and Sciences UCLA Los Angeles CA 90095 USA
- Present address: Department of Biological Chemistry David Geffen School of Medicine UCLA Los Angeles CA 90095 USA
| | - Linwei Li
- Department of Chemistry and Biochemistry College of Arts and Sciences UCLA Los Angeles CA 90095 USA
| | - Jonathan Farhi
- Department of Radiation Oncology Emory University Atlanta GA 30322 USA
| | - Kendall N. Houk
- Department of Chemistry and Biochemistry College of Arts and Sciences UCLA Los Angeles CA 90095 USA
| | - Jennifer Spangle
- Department of Radiation Oncology Emory University Atlanta GA 30322 USA
| | - Keriann M. Backus
- Department of Chemistry and Biochemistry College of Arts and Sciences UCLA Los Angeles CA 90095 USA
- Present address: Department of Biological Chemistry David Geffen School of Medicine UCLA Los Angeles CA 90095 USA
| | - Monika Raj
- Present address: Department of Chemistry Emory University Atlanta GA 30322 USA
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142
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KRAS(G12D) can be targeted by potent inhibitors via formation of salt bridge. Cell Discov 2022; 8:5. [PMID: 35075146 PMCID: PMC8786924 DOI: 10.1038/s41421-021-00368-w] [Citation(s) in RCA: 55] [Impact Index Per Article: 27.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/22/2021] [Accepted: 12/23/2021] [Indexed: 12/11/2022] Open
Abstract
KRAS mutation occurs in nearly 30% of human cancers, yet the most prevalent and oncogenic KRAS(G12D) variant still lacks inhibitors. Herein, we designed a series of potent inhibitors that can form a salt bridge with KRAS’s Asp12 residue. Our ITC results show that these inhibitors have similar binding affinity with both GDP-bound and GTP-bound KRAS(G12D), and our crystallographic studies reveal the structural basis of inhibitor binding-induced switch-II pocket in KRAS(G12D), experimentally confirming the formation of a salt bridge between the piperazine moiety of the inhibitors and the Asp12 residue of the mutant protein. Among KRAS family proteins and mutants, both ITC and enzymatic assays demonstrate the selectivity of the inhibitors for KRAS(G12D); and the inhibitors disrupt the KRAS–CRAF interaction. We also observed the inhibition of cancer cell proliferation as well as MAPK signaling by a representative inhibitor (TH-Z835). However, since the inhibition was not fully dependent on KRAS mutation status, it is possible that our inhibitors may have off-target effects via targeting non-KRAS small GTPases. Experiments with mouse xenograft models of pancreatic cancer showed that TH-Z835 significantly reduced tumor volume and synergized with an anti-PD-1 antibody. Collectively, our study demonstrates proof-of-concept for a strategy based on salt-bridge and induced-fit pocket formation for KRAS(G12D) targeting, which warrants future medicinal chemistry efforts for optimal efficacy and minimized off-target effects.
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143
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Zhang J, Liu Z, Zhao W, Yin X, Zheng X, Liu C, Wang J, Wang E. Discovery of Small Molecule NSC290956 as a Therapeutic Agent for KRas Mutant Non-Small-Cell Lung Cancer. Front Pharmacol 2022; 12:797821. [PMID: 35069209 PMCID: PMC8766838 DOI: 10.3389/fphar.2021.797821] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/19/2021] [Accepted: 11/22/2021] [Indexed: 11/13/2022] Open
Abstract
HRas-GTP has a transient intermediate state with a “non-signaling open conformation” in GTP hydrolysis and nucleotide exchange. Due to the same hydrolysis process and the structural homology, it can be speculated that the active KRas adopts the same characteristics with the “open conformation.” This implies that agents locking this “open conformation” may theoretically block KRas-dependent signaling. Applying our specificity-affinity drug screening approach, NSC290956 was chosen by high affinity and specificity interaction with the “open conformation” structure HRasG60A-GppNp. In mutant KRas-driven non-small-cell lung cancer (NSCLC) model system, NSC290956 effectively suppresses the KRas-GTP state and gives pharmacological KRas inhibition with concomitant blockages of both the MAPK-ERK and AKT-mTOR pathways. The dual inhibitory effects lead to the metabolic phenotype switching from glycolysis to mitochondrial metabolism, which promotes the cancer cell death. In the xenograft model, NSC290956 significantly reduces H358 tumor growth in nude mice by mechanisms similar to those observed in the cells. Our work indicates that NSC290956 can be a promising agent for the mutant KRas-driven NSCLC therapy.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jiaxin Zhang
- State Key Laboratory of Electroanalytical Chemistry, Changchun Institute of Applied Chemistry, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Changchun, China.,Department of Chemistry, University of Science and Technology of China, Hefei, China
| | - Zuojia Liu
- State Key Laboratory of Electroanalytical Chemistry, Changchun Institute of Applied Chemistry, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Changchun, China
| | - Wenjing Zhao
- State Key Laboratory of Electroanalytical Chemistry, Changchun Institute of Applied Chemistry, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Changchun, China
| | - Xunzhe Yin
- State Key Laboratory of Electroanalytical Chemistry, Changchun Institute of Applied Chemistry, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Changchun, China
| | - Xiliang Zheng
- State Key Laboratory of Electroanalytical Chemistry, Changchun Institute of Applied Chemistry, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Changchun, China
| | - Chuanbo Liu
- State Key Laboratory of Electroanalytical Chemistry, Changchun Institute of Applied Chemistry, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Changchun, China
| | - Jin Wang
- Department of Chemistry and Physics, State University of New York, Stony Brook, NY, United States
| | - Erkang Wang
- State Key Laboratory of Electroanalytical Chemistry, Changchun Institute of Applied Chemistry, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Changchun, China.,Department of Chemistry, University of Science and Technology of China, Hefei, China
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144
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Kulkarni AM, Kumar V, Parate S, Lee G, Yoon S, Lee KW. Identification of New KRAS G12D Inhibitors through Computer-Aided Drug Discovery Methods. Int J Mol Sci 2022; 23:ijms23031309. [PMID: 35163234 PMCID: PMC8836163 DOI: 10.3390/ijms23031309] [Citation(s) in RCA: 14] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/16/2021] [Revised: 01/19/2022] [Accepted: 01/20/2022] [Indexed: 02/05/2023] Open
Abstract
Owing to several mutations, the oncogene Kirsten rat sarcoma 2 viral oncogene homolog (KRAS) is activated in the majority of cancers, and targeting it has been pharmacologically challenging. In this study, using an in silico approach comprised of pharmacophore modeling, molecular docking, and molecular dynamics simulations, potential KRAS G12D inhibitors were investigated. A ligand-based common feature pharmacophore model was generated to identify the framework necessary for effective KRAS inhibition. The chemical features in the selected pharmacophore model comprised two hydrogen bond donors, one hydrogen bond acceptor, two aromatic rings and one hydrophobic feature. This model was used for screening in excess of 214,000 compounds from InterBioScreen (IBS) and ZINC databases. Eighteen compounds from the IBS and ten from the ZINC database mapped onto the pharmacophore model and were subjected to molecular docking. Molecular docking results highlighted a higher affinity of four hit compounds towards KRAS G12D in comparison to the reference inhibitor, BI-2852. Sequential molecular dynamics (MD) simulation studies revealed all four hit compounds them possess higher KRAS G12D binding free energy and demonstrate stable polar interaction with key residues. Further, Principal Component Analysis (PCA) analysis of the hit compounds in complex with KRAS G12D also indicated stability. Overall, the research undertaken provides strong support for further in vitro testing of these newly identified KRAS G12D inhibitors, particularly Hit1 and Hit2.
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Affiliation(s)
- Apoorva M. Kulkarni
- Department of Bio and Medical Big Data (BK4 Program), Division of Life Science, Research Institute of Natural Science, Gyeongsang National University, 501 Jinju-daero, Jinju 52828, Korea; (A.M.K.); (V.K.); (S.Y.)
| | - Vikas Kumar
- Department of Bio and Medical Big Data (BK4 Program), Division of Life Science, Research Institute of Natural Science, Gyeongsang National University, 501 Jinju-daero, Jinju 52828, Korea; (A.M.K.); (V.K.); (S.Y.)
| | - Shraddha Parate
- Division of Applied Life Science, Plant Molecular Biology and Biotechnology Research Center, Gyeongsang National University, 501 Jinju-daero, Jinju 52828, Korea; (S.P.); (G.L.)
| | - Gihwan Lee
- Division of Applied Life Science, Plant Molecular Biology and Biotechnology Research Center, Gyeongsang National University, 501 Jinju-daero, Jinju 52828, Korea; (S.P.); (G.L.)
| | - Sanghwa Yoon
- Department of Bio and Medical Big Data (BK4 Program), Division of Life Science, Research Institute of Natural Science, Gyeongsang National University, 501 Jinju-daero, Jinju 52828, Korea; (A.M.K.); (V.K.); (S.Y.)
| | - Keun Woo Lee
- Department of Bio and Medical Big Data (BK4 Program), Division of Life Science, Research Institute of Natural Science, Gyeongsang National University, 501 Jinju-daero, Jinju 52828, Korea; (A.M.K.); (V.K.); (S.Y.)
- Correspondence:
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145
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Xu Q, Zhang G, Liu Q, Li S, Zhang Y. Inhibitors of the GTPase KRASG12C in cancer: a patent review (2019-2021). Expert Opin Ther Pat 2022; 32:475-505. [PMID: 35062845 DOI: 10.1080/13543776.2022.2032648] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/19/2022]
Affiliation(s)
- Qifu Xu
- Department of Medicinal Chemistry, Key Laboratory of Chemical Biology (Ministry of Education), School of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Cheeloo College of Medicine, Shandong University, 44 West Wenhua Road, Ji’nan, Shandong, 250012, PR China
| | - Guozhen Zhang
- Department of Medicinal Chemistry, Key Laboratory of Chemical Biology (Ministry of Education), School of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Cheeloo College of Medicine, Shandong University, 44 West Wenhua Road, Ji’nan, Shandong, 250012, PR China
| | - Qian Liu
- Department of Medicinal Chemistry, Key Laboratory of Chemical Biology (Ministry of Education), School of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Cheeloo College of Medicine, Shandong University, 44 West Wenhua Road, Ji’nan, Shandong, 250012, PR China
| | - Shunda Li
- Department of Medicinal Chemistry, Key Laboratory of Chemical Biology (Ministry of Education), School of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Cheeloo College of Medicine, Shandong University, 44 West Wenhua Road, Ji’nan, Shandong, 250012, PR China
| | - Yingjie Zhang
- Department of Medicinal Chemistry, Key Laboratory of Chemical Biology (Ministry of Education), School of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Cheeloo College of Medicine, Shandong University, 44 West Wenhua Road, Ji’nan, Shandong, 250012, PR China
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146
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Kwan AK, Piazza GA, Keeton AB, Leite CA. The path to the clinic: a comprehensive review on direct KRASG12C inhibitors. J Exp Clin Cancer Res 2022; 41:27. [PMID: 35045886 PMCID: PMC8767686 DOI: 10.1186/s13046-021-02225-w] [Citation(s) in RCA: 75] [Impact Index Per Article: 37.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/08/2021] [Accepted: 12/16/2021] [Indexed: 02/08/2023] Open
Abstract
AbstractThe RAS oncogene is both the most frequently mutated oncogene in human cancer and the first confirmed human oncogene to be discovered in 1982. After decades of research, in 2013, the Shokat lab achieved a seminal breakthrough by showing that the activated KRAS isozyme caused by the G12C mutation in the KRAS gene can be directly inhibited via a newly unearthed switch II pocket. Building upon this groundbreaking discovery, sotorasib (AMG510) obtained approval by the United States Food and Drug Administration in 2021 to become the first therapy to directly target the KRAS oncoprotein in any KRAS-mutant cancers, particularly those harboring the KRASG12C mutation. Adagrasib (MRTX849) and other direct KRASG12C inhibitors are currently being investigated in multiple clinical trials. In this review, we delve into the path leading to the development of this novel KRAS inhibitor, starting with the discovery, structure, and function of the RAS family of oncoproteins. We then examine the clinical relevance of KRAS, especially the KRASG12C mutation in human cancer, by providing an in-depth analysis of its cancer epidemiology. Finally, we review the preclinical evidence that supported the initial development of the direct KRASG12C inhibitors and summarize the ongoing clinical trials of all direct KRASG12C inhibitors.
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147
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Yin G, Lv G, Zhang J, Jiang H, Lai T, Yang Y, Ren Y, Wang J, Yi C, Chen H, Huang Y, Xiao C. Early-stage structure-based drug discovery for small GTPases by NMR spectroscopy. Pharmacol Ther 2022; 236:108110. [PMID: 35007659 DOI: 10.1016/j.pharmthera.2022.108110] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/22/2021] [Revised: 01/04/2022] [Accepted: 01/05/2022] [Indexed: 12/13/2022]
Abstract
Small GTPase or Ras superfamily, including Ras, Rho, Rab, Ran and Arf, are fundamental in regulating a wide range of cellular processes such as growth, differentiation, migration and apoptosis. They share structural and functional similarities for binding guanine nucleotides and hydrolyzing GTP. Dysregulations of Ras proteins are involved in the pathophysiology of multiple human diseases, however there is still a stringent need for effective treatments targeting these proteins. For decades, small GTPases were recognized as 'undruggable' targets due to their complex regulatory mechanisms and lack of deep pockets for ligand binding. NMR has been critical in deciphering the structural and dynamic properties of the switch regions that are underpinning molecular switch functions of small GTPases, which pave the way for developing new effective inhibitors. The recent progress of drug or lead molecule development made for small GTPases profoundly delineated how modern NMR techniques reshape the field of drug discovery. In this review, we will summarize the progress of structural and dynamic studies of small GTPases, the NMR techniques developed for structure-based drug screening and their applications in early-stage drug discovery for small GTPases.
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Affiliation(s)
- Guowei Yin
- The Seventh Affiliated Hospital of Sun Yat-sen University, Shenzhen 518107, China.
| | - Guohua Lv
- Division of Histology & Embryology, Medical College, Jinan University, Guangzhou 511486, Guangdong, China
| | - Jerry Zhang
- University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill School of Medicine, Chapel Hill, NC 27516, USA
| | - Hongmei Jiang
- The Seventh Affiliated Hospital of Sun Yat-sen University, Shenzhen 518107, China
| | - Tianqi Lai
- Division of Histology & Embryology, Medical College, Jinan University, Guangzhou 511486, Guangdong, China
| | - Yushan Yang
- The Seventh Affiliated Hospital of Sun Yat-sen University, Shenzhen 518107, China
| | - Yong Ren
- The Seventh Affiliated Hospital of Sun Yat-sen University, Shenzhen 518107, China
| | - Jing Wang
- College of Life Sciences, Northwest University, Xi'an 710069, Shaanxi, China
| | - Chenju Yi
- The Seventh Affiliated Hospital of Sun Yat-sen University, Shenzhen 518107, China
| | - Hao Chen
- Key Laboratory of Biomedical Information Engineering of Ministry of Education, Biomedical Informatics & Genomics Center, School of Life Science and Technology, Xi'an Jiaotong University, Xi'an, Shaanxi Province 710049, PR China; Research Institute of Xi'an Jiaotong University, Zhejiang, Hangzhou, Zhejiang Province 311215, PR China
| | - Yun Huang
- Howard Hughes Medical Institute, Chevy Chase 20815, MD, USA; Department of Physiology & Biophysics, Weill Cornell Medicine, New York 10065, NY, USA.
| | - Chaoni Xiao
- College of Life Sciences, Northwest University, Xi'an 710069, Shaanxi, China.
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148
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Conformation-locking antibodies for the discovery and characterization of KRAS inhibitors. Nat Biotechnol 2022; 40:769-778. [PMID: 34992247 DOI: 10.1038/s41587-021-01126-9] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/07/2021] [Accepted: 10/07/2021] [Indexed: 11/08/2022]
Abstract
Small molecules that stabilize inactive protein conformations are an underutilized strategy for drugging dynamic or otherwise intractable proteins. To facilitate the discovery and characterization of such inhibitors, we created a screening platform to identify conformation-locking antibodies for molecular probes (CLAMPs) that distinguish and induce rare protein conformational states. Applying the approach to KRAS, we discovered CLAMPs that recognize the open conformation of KRASG12C stabilized by covalent inhibitors. One CLAMP enables the visualization of KRASG12C covalent modification in vivo and can be used to investigate response heterogeneity to KRASG12C inhibitors in patient tumors. A second CLAMP enhances the affinity of weak ligands binding to the KRASG12C switch II region (SWII) by stabilizing a specific conformation of KRASG12C, thereby enabling the discovery of such ligands that could serve as leads for the development of drugs in a high-throughput screen. We show that combining the complementary properties of antibodies and small molecules facilitates the study and drugging of dynamic proteins.
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149
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Ogunlana AT, Kehinde Oyedele AQ, Boyenle ID, Ayoola SO, Ajibare AC, Adeyemi AO, Jinadu LA, Adenrele OT, Alausa AO, Adelusi TI. Computer-aided drug design of some KRAS G12C inhibitors: Targeting the covalent and allosteric binding site for cancer therapy. INFORMATICS IN MEDICINE UNLOCKED 2022. [DOI: 10.1016/j.imu.2022.101032] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/15/2022] Open
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150
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Khan I, Marelia-Bennet C, Lefler J, Zuberi M, Denbaum E, Koide A, Connor DM, Broome AM, Pécot T, Timmers C, Ostrowski MC, Koide S, O’Bryan JP. Targeting the KRAS α4-α5 allosteric interface inhibits pancreatic cancer tumorigenesis. Small GTPases 2022; 13:114-127. [PMID: 33949915 PMCID: PMC9707541 DOI: 10.1080/21541248.2021.1906621] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/25/2020] [Revised: 03/10/2021] [Accepted: 03/17/2021] [Indexed: 02/07/2023] Open
Abstract
RAS is the most frequently mutated oncogene in human cancer with nearly ~20% of cancer patients possessing mutations in one of three RAS genes (K, N or HRAS). However, KRAS is mutated in nearly 90% of pancreatic ductal carcinomas (PDAC). Although pharmacological inhibition of RAS has been challenging, KRAS(G12C)-specific inhibitors have recently entered the clinic. While KRAS(G12C) is frequently expressed in lung cancers, it is rare in PDAC. Thus, more broadly efficacious RAS inhibitors are needed for treating KRAS mutant-driven cancers such as PDAC. A RAS-specific tool biologic, NS1 Monobody, inhibits HRAS- and KRAS-mediated signalling and oncogenic transformation both in vitro and in vivo by targeting the α4-α5 allosteric site of RAS and blocking RAS self-association. Here, we evaluated the efficacy of targeting the α4-α5 interface of KRAS as an approach to inhibit PDAC development using an immunocompetent orthotopic mouse model. Chemically regulated NS1 expression inhibited ERK and AKT activation in KRAS(G12D) mutant KPC PDAC cells and reduced the formation and progression of pancreatic tumours. NS1-expressing tumours were characterized by increased infiltration of CD4 + T helper cells. These results suggest that targeting the #x3B1;4-#x3B1;5 allosteric site of KRAS may represent a viable therapeutic approach for inhibiting KRAS-mutant pancreatic tumours.
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Affiliation(s)
- Imran Khan
- Department of Cell and Molecular Pharmacology & Experimental Therapeutics, Medical University of South Carolina, Charleston, SC, USA
- Hollings Cancer Center, Medical University of South Carolina, Charleston, SC, USA
- Ralph H. Johnson VA Medical Center, Charleston, SC, USA
| | - Catherine Marelia-Bennet
- Hollings Cancer Center, Medical University of South Carolina, Charleston, SC, USA
- Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, New York University School of Medicine, NY, New York, USA
| | - Julia Lefler
- Hollings Cancer Center, Medical University of South Carolina, Charleston, SC, USA
- Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, New York University School of Medicine, NY, New York, USA
| | - Mariyam Zuberi
- Department of Cell and Molecular Pharmacology & Experimental Therapeutics, Medical University of South Carolina, Charleston, SC, USA
- Hollings Cancer Center, Medical University of South Carolina, Charleston, SC, USA
- Ralph H. Johnson VA Medical Center, Charleston, SC, USA
| | - Eric Denbaum
- Perlmutter Cancer Center, New York University Langone Health, NY, New York, USA
| | - Akiko Koide
- Perlmutter Cancer Center, New York University Langone Health, NY, New York, USA
- Department of Medicine, New York University School of Medicine, NY, New York, USA
| | - Dean M. Connor
- Department of Cell and Molecular Pharmacology & Experimental Therapeutics, Medical University of South Carolina, Charleston, SC, USA
- Hollings Cancer Center, Medical University of South Carolina, Charleston, SC, USA
| | - Ann-Marie Broome
- Department of Cell and Molecular Pharmacology & Experimental Therapeutics, Medical University of South Carolina, Charleston, SC, USA
- Hollings Cancer Center, Medical University of South Carolina, Charleston, SC, USA
| | - Thierry Pécot
- Hollings Cancer Center, Medical University of South Carolina, Charleston, SC, USA
- Department of Medicine, New York University School of Medicine, NY, New York, USA
| | - Cynthia Timmers
- Hollings Cancer Center, Medical University of South Carolina, Charleston, SC, USA
- Department of Medicine, New York University School of Medicine, NY, New York, USA
| | - Michael C. Ostrowski
- Hollings Cancer Center, Medical University of South Carolina, Charleston, SC, USA
- Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, New York University School of Medicine, NY, New York, USA
| | - Shohei Koide
- Perlmutter Cancer Center, New York University Langone Health, NY, New York, USA
- Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Pharmacology, New York University School of Medicine, New York, NY, USA
| | - John P. O’Bryan
- Department of Cell and Molecular Pharmacology & Experimental Therapeutics, Medical University of South Carolina, Charleston, SC, USA
- Hollings Cancer Center, Medical University of South Carolina, Charleston, SC, USA
- Ralph H. Johnson VA Medical Center, Charleston, SC, USA
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