151
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Ohtsu A, Arai S, Sawada T, Kato M, Maeno Y, Miyazawa Y, Fujizuka Y, Sekine Y, Koike H, Matsui H, Suzuki K. Fibroblast growth factor receptor inhibitor erdafitinib promotes Mcl-1 degradation and synergistically induces apoptosis with Bcl-xL/Bcl-2 inhibitor in urothelial cancer cells. Biochem Biophys Res Commun 2022; 628:76-83. [DOI: 10.1016/j.bbrc.2022.08.083] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/11/2022] [Revised: 08/12/2022] [Accepted: 08/26/2022] [Indexed: 11/26/2022]
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152
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Specific Targeting of Antiapoptotic Bcl-2 Proteins as a Radiosensitizing Approach in Solid Tumors. Int J Mol Sci 2022; 23:ijms23147850. [PMID: 35887198 PMCID: PMC9319836 DOI: 10.3390/ijms23147850] [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: 05/12/2022] [Revised: 07/08/2022] [Accepted: 07/12/2022] [Indexed: 01/25/2023] Open
Abstract
Avoidance of therapy-induced apoptosis is a hallmark of acquired resistance towards radiotherapy. Thus, breaking resistance still challenges modern cancer therapy. The Bcl-2 protein family is known for its regulatory role in apoptosis signaling, making Bcl-2, Mcl-1 and Bcl-xL promising targets. This study evaluates the effects of highly specific inhibitors for Bcl-xL (WEHI-539), Bcl-2 (ABT-199) and Mcl-1 (S63845) as radiosensitizers. Covering a broad spectrum of solid tumors, Non-Small-Cell Lung Cancer (NSCLC), Head and Neck Squamous Cell Carcinoma (HNSCC) and synovial sarcoma cell lines were exposed to fractionated radiation as standard therapy with or without Bcl-2 protein inhibition. Protein expression was detected by Western blot and cell death was assessed by flow cytometry measuring apoptosis. In contrast to NSCLC, a high level of Bcl-xL and its upregulation during radiotherapy indicated radioresistance in HNSCC and synovial sarcoma. Radioresistant cell lines across all entities benefited synergistically from combined therapy with Bcl-xL inhibition and fractionated radiation. In NSCLC cell lines, Mcl-1 inhibition significantly augmented radiotherapy independent of the expression level. Our data suggest that among antiapoptotic Bcl-2 proteins, targeting Bcl-xL may break resistance to radiation in HNSCC, synovial sarcoma and NSCLC in vitro. In NSCLC, Mcl-1 might be a promising target that needs further investigation.
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153
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Deng H, Huang M, Liu H, Zhang H, Liu L, Gao B, Li X, Li J, Niu Q, Zhang Z, Luan S, Zhang J, Jing Y, Liu D, Zhao L. Development of a series of novel Mcl-1 inhibitors bearing an indole carboxylic acid moiety. Bioorg Chem 2022; 127:106018. [PMID: 35901526 DOI: 10.1016/j.bioorg.2022.106018] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/30/2022] [Revised: 06/03/2022] [Accepted: 07/07/2022] [Indexed: 11/25/2022]
Abstract
The B cell lymphoma protein 2 (Bcl-2) family proteins regulate cell apoptosis by participating in the endogenous apoptosis pathway. As an important anti-apoptotic protein, Myeloid cell leukemia 1 (Mcl-1) is overexpressed in a variety of tumor cells, and targeting this protein has been a promising strategy for cancer therapy. Herein, based on the 1H-indole-5-carboxylic acid structure previously discovered, we have developed a series of novel compounds with increased affinities and selectivity toward Mcl-1 through structure-based drug design. Among those compounds, 26 exerted relatively better affinity and selectivity for Mcl-1 with moderate inhibition in HL-60 cells. Mechanism studies showed that compound 26 could induce cancer cells apoptosis in an Mcl-1-dependent manner. It also exhibited good microsomal and plasma stability with acceptable pharmacokinetics profiles. Furthermore, treatment with target compound in a 4T1 xenograft mouse model significantly suppressed the tumor growth. Overall, the small molecule described herein represents a promising Mcl-1 inhibitor for further study.
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Affiliation(s)
- Hongguang Deng
- Key Laboratory of Structure-Based Drugs Design & Discovery of Ministry of Education, Shenyang Pharmaceutical University, Shenyang 110016, China
| | - Min Huang
- Key Laboratory of Structure-Based Drugs Design & Discovery of Ministry of Education, Shenyang Pharmaceutical University, Shenyang 110016, China
| | - Hui Liu
- Wuya College of Innovation, Shenyang Pharmaceutical University, Shenyang 110016, China; Liaoning Key Laboratory of Targeting Drugs for Hematological Malignancies, Shenyang Pharmaceutical University, Shenyang 110016, China
| | - Hong Zhang
- Key Laboratory of Structure-Based Drugs Design & Discovery of Ministry of Education, Shenyang Pharmaceutical University, Shenyang 110016, China
| | - Liang Liu
- Key Laboratory of Structure-Based Drugs Design & Discovery of Ministry of Education, Shenyang Pharmaceutical University, Shenyang 110016, China
| | - Bensheng Gao
- Key Laboratory of Structure-Based Drugs Design & Discovery of Ministry of Education, Shenyang Pharmaceutical University, Shenyang 110016, China
| | - Xianlu Li
- Wuya College of Innovation, Shenyang Pharmaceutical University, Shenyang 110016, China
| | - Jinbo Li
- Wuya College of Innovation, Shenyang Pharmaceutical University, Shenyang 110016, China
| | - Qun Niu
- Key Laboratory of Structure-Based Drugs Design & Discovery of Ministry of Education, Shenyang Pharmaceutical University, Shenyang 110016, China
| | - Zhenwei Zhang
- Key Laboratory of Structure-Based Drugs Design & Discovery of Ministry of Education, Shenyang Pharmaceutical University, Shenyang 110016, China
| | - Shenglin Luan
- Key Laboratory of Structure-Based Drugs Design & Discovery of Ministry of Education, Shenyang Pharmaceutical University, Shenyang 110016, China
| | - Jingyi Zhang
- Wuya College of Innovation, Shenyang Pharmaceutical University, Shenyang 110016, China; Liaoning Key Laboratory of Targeting Drugs for Hematological Malignancies, Shenyang Pharmaceutical University, Shenyang 110016, China
| | - Yongkui Jing
- Wuya College of Innovation, Shenyang Pharmaceutical University, Shenyang 110016, China; Liaoning Key Laboratory of Targeting Drugs for Hematological Malignancies, Shenyang Pharmaceutical University, Shenyang 110016, China
| | - Dan Liu
- Key Laboratory of Structure-Based Drugs Design & Discovery of Ministry of Education, Shenyang Pharmaceutical University, Shenyang 110016, China.
| | - Linxiang Zhao
- Key Laboratory of Structure-Based Drugs Design & Discovery of Ministry of Education, Shenyang Pharmaceutical University, Shenyang 110016, China.
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154
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Updates in the Use of BCL-2-Family Small Molecule Inhibitors for the Treatment of Relapsed/Refractory Multiple Myeloma. Cancers (Basel) 2022; 14:cancers14143330. [PMID: 35884390 PMCID: PMC9317574 DOI: 10.3390/cancers14143330] [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] [Received: 06/06/2022] [Revised: 06/29/2022] [Accepted: 07/07/2022] [Indexed: 02/01/2023] Open
Abstract
Despite considerable advances in the treatment of multiple myeloma over the past decade, progression of disease is inevitable, and patients ultimately succumb to relapsed and refractory disease. Efficacious therapeutic regimens that target the key biological pathways that are essential for malignant plasma cell survival are necessary in the efforts to improve patient survival outcomes. The Bcl-2 family of proteins comprise oncogenes that promote myeloma cell survival by conferring resistance to apoptosis. These proteins are frequently upregulated in myeloma cells, thus making them attractive therapeutic targets. Several small molecule inhibitors of Bcl-2-family proteins are currently in clinical development for the treatment of relapsed/refractory multiple myeloma. Venetoclax, a Bcl-2-specific inhibitor, has generated the most clinical data and has shown promising results in patients with multiple myeloma harboring the t (11;14) translocation. Venetoclax has shown efficacy when combined with anti-CD38 monoclonal antibodies, immunomodulatory drugs, and proteasome inhibitors. Several other Bcl-2 inhibitors are in clinical development, as are inhibitors of Mcl-1, a Bcl-2-family oncoprotein that is perhaps more critical for myeloma cell survival than Bcl-2. This review will summarize the latest clinical data regarding the clinical development of Bcl-2-family protein inhibitors in the treatment of relapsed/refractory multiple myeloma.
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155
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Winder ML, Campbell KJ. MCL-1 is a clinically targetable vulnerability in breast cancer. Cell Cycle 2022; 21:1439-1455. [PMID: 35349392 PMCID: PMC9278428 DOI: 10.1080/15384101.2022.2054096] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/26/2021] [Revised: 03/03/2022] [Accepted: 03/11/2022] [Indexed: 11/03/2022] Open
Abstract
Pro-survival members of the BCL-2 family, including MCL-1, are emerging as important proteins during the development and therapeutic response of solid tumors. Notably, high levels of MCL-1 occur in breast cancer, where functional dependency has been demonstrated using cell lines and mouse models. The utility of restoring apoptosis in cancer cells through inhibition of pro-survival BCL-2 proteins has been realized in the clinic, where the first specific inhibitor of BCL-2 is approved for use in leukemia. A variety of MCL-1 inhibitors are now undergoing clinical trials for blood cancer treatment and application of this new class of drugs is also being tested in solid cancers. On-target compounds specific to MCL-1 have demonstrated promising efficacy in preclinical models of breast cancer and show potential to enhance the anti-tumor effect of conventional therapies. Taken together, this makes MCL-1 an extremely attractive target for clinical evaluation in the context of breast cancer.Abbreviations: ADC (antibody-drug conjugate); AML (Acute myeloid leukemia); APAF1 (apoptotic protease activating factor 1); bCAFs (breast cancer associated fibroblasts); BCL-2 (B-cell lymphoma 2); BH (BCL-2 homology); CLL (chronic lymphocytic leukemia); EGF (epidermal growth factor); EMT (epithelial to mesenchymal transition); ER (estrogen receptor); FDA (food and drug administration); GEMM (genetically engineered mouse model); HER2 (human epidermal growth factor 2); IL6 (interleukin 6); IMM (inner mitochondrial membrane); IMS (intermembrane space); MCL-1 (myeloid cell leukemia-1); MOMP (mitochondrial outer membrane permeabilisation); MM (multiple myeloma); PDX (patient-derived xenograft); OMM (outer mitochondrial membrane); PROTAC (proteolysis-targeting chimeras) TNBC (triple negative breast cancer); UPS (ubiquitin mediated proteolysis system).
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Affiliation(s)
- Matthew L Winder
- CRUK Beatson Institute, Garscube Estate,Switchback Road, Glasgow, G61 1BD, UK
- Institute of Cancer Sciences, University of Glasgow, Garscube Estate, Switchback Road, Glasgow, G61 1QH, UK
| | - Kirsteen J Campbell
- CRUK Beatson Institute, Garscube Estate,Switchback Road, Glasgow, G61 1BD, UK
- Institute of Cancer Sciences, University of Glasgow, Garscube Estate, Switchback Road, Glasgow, G61 1QH, UK
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156
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Mukherjee N, Dart CR, Amato CM, Honig-Frand A, Lambert JR, Lambert KA, Robinson WA, Tobin RP, McCarter MD, Couts KL, Fujita M, Norris DA, Shellman YG. Expression Differences in BCL2 Family Members between Uveal and Cutaneous Melanomas Account for Varying Sensitivity to BH3 Mimetics. J Invest Dermatol 2022; 142:1912-1922.e7. [PMID: 34942200 PMCID: PMC9635014 DOI: 10.1016/j.jid.2021.11.035] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/29/2021] [Revised: 11/04/2021] [Accepted: 11/19/2021] [Indexed: 10/19/2022]
Abstract
Uveal melanoma (UM) is a subtype of melanoma. Although they share a melanocytic origin with cutaneous melanoma (CM), patients with UM have few treatment options. BCL2 homologous 3 mimetics are small-molecule drugs that mimic proapoptotic BCL2 family members. We compared BCL2 family member expression between UM and CM using immunoblot and The Cancer Genome Atlas transcriptomic analysis. UM has a unique signature of low BFL1 and high PUMA proteins compared with CM and 30 other cancer types, making them an attractive candidate for BCL2 homologous 3 protein mimetics. We tested the efficacy of a BCL2 inhibitor and MCL1 inhibitor (MCL1i) in UM, with viability assays, live-cell imaging, sphere assays, and mouse xenograft models. UM had a higher sensitivity to MCL1i than CM. Overexpression of BFL1 or knockdown of PUMA made the UM more resistant to MCL1i. In contrast, MAPK/extracellular signal‒regulated kinase inhibitor treatment in CM made them more sensitive to MCL1i. However, MCL1i-alone treatment was not very effective to reduce the UM initiating cells; to overcome this, we employed a combination of MCL1i with BCL2 inhibitor that synergistically inhibited UM initiating cell's capacity to expand. Overall, we identify a distinct expression profile of BCL2 family members for UM that makes them susceptible to BCL2 homologous 3 mimetics.
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Affiliation(s)
- Nabanita Mukherjee
- Department of Dermatology, School of Medicine, University of Colorado Anschutz Medical Campus, Aurora, Colorado, USA
| | - Chiara R Dart
- Department of Dermatology, School of Medicine, University of Colorado Anschutz Medical Campus, Aurora, Colorado, USA; Division of Medical Oncology, School of Medicine, University of Colorado Anschutz Medical Campus, Aurora, Colorado, USA
| | - Carol M Amato
- Division of Medical Oncology, School of Medicine, University of Colorado Anschutz Medical Campus, Aurora, Colorado, USA
| | - Adam Honig-Frand
- Division of Medical Oncology, School of Medicine, University of Colorado Anschutz Medical Campus, Aurora, Colorado, USA
| | - James R Lambert
- Department of Pathology, School of Medicine, University of Colorado Anschutz Medical Campus, Aurora, Colorado, USA
| | - Karoline A Lambert
- Department of Dermatology, School of Medicine, University of Colorado Anschutz Medical Campus, Aurora, Colorado, USA
| | - William A Robinson
- Division of Medical Oncology, School of Medicine, University of Colorado Anschutz Medical Campus, Aurora, Colorado, USA
| | - Richard P Tobin
- Division of Surgical Oncology, Department of Surgery, School of Medicine, University of Colorado Denver Anschutz Medical Campus, Aurora, Colorado, USA
| | - Martin D McCarter
- Division of Surgical Oncology, Department of Surgery, School of Medicine, University of Colorado Denver Anschutz Medical Campus, Aurora, Colorado, USA
| | - Kasey L Couts
- Division of Medical Oncology, School of Medicine, University of Colorado Anschutz Medical Campus, Aurora, Colorado, USA
| | - Mayumi Fujita
- Department of Dermatology, School of Medicine, University of Colorado Anschutz Medical Campus, Aurora, Colorado, USA; Dermatology Section, U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs Medical Center, Denver, Colorado, USA; Gates Center for Regenerative Medicine, University of Colorado Anschutz Medical Campus, Aurora, Colorado, USA
| | - David A Norris
- Department of Dermatology, School of Medicine, University of Colorado Anschutz Medical Campus, Aurora, Colorado, USA; Dermatology Section, U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs Medical Center, Denver, Colorado, USA
| | - Yiqun G Shellman
- Department of Dermatology, School of Medicine, University of Colorado Anschutz Medical Campus, Aurora, Colorado, USA; Gates Center for Regenerative Medicine, University of Colorado Anschutz Medical Campus, Aurora, Colorado, USA.
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157
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BH3 mimetic drugs cooperate with Temozolomide, JQ1 and inducers of ferroptosis in killing glioblastoma multiforme cells. Cell Death Differ 2022; 29:1335-1348. [PMID: 35332309 DOI: 10.1038/s41418-022-00977-2] [Citation(s) in RCA: 12] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/23/2021] [Revised: 03/03/2022] [Accepted: 03/04/2022] [Indexed: 01/20/2023] Open
Abstract
Glioblastoma multiforme (GBM) is the most common and aggressive form of brain cancer, with treatment options often constrained due to inherent resistance of malignant cells to conventional therapy. We investigated the impact of triggering programmed cell death (PCD) by using BH3 mimetic drugs in human GBM cell lines. We demonstrate that co-targeting the pro-survival proteins BCL-XL and MCL-1 was more potent at killing six GBM cell lines compared to conventional therapy with Temozolomide or the bromodomain inhibitor JQ1 in vitro. Enhanced cell killing was observed in U251 and SNB-19 cells in response to dual treatment with TMZ or JQ1 combined with a BCL-XL inhibitor, compared to single agent treatment. This was reflected in abundant cleavage/activation of caspase-3 and cleavage of PARP1, markers of apoptosis. U251 and SNB-19 cells were more readily killed by a combination of BH3 mimetics targeting BCL-XL and MCL-1 as opposed to dual treatment with the BCL-2 inhibitor Venetoclax and a BCL-XL inhibitor. The combined loss of BAX and BAK, the essential executioners of intrinsic apoptosis, rendered U251 and SNB-19 cells refractory to any of the drug combinations tested, demonstrating that apoptosis is responsible for their killing. In an orthotopic mouse model of GBM, we demonstrate that the BCL-XL inhibitor A1331852 can penetrate the brain, with A1331852 detected in both tumour and healthy brain regions. We also investigated the impact of combining small molecule inducers of ferroptosis, erastin and RSL3, with BH3 mimetic drugs. We found that a BCL-XL or an MCL-1 inhibitor potently cooperates with inducers of ferroptosis in killing U251 cells. Overall, these findings demonstrate the potential of dual targeting of distinct PCD signalling pathways in GBM and may guide the utility of BCL-XL inhibitors and inducers of ferroptosis with standard of care treatment for improved therapies for GBM.
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158
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Abuzaid H, Abdelrazig S, Ferreira L, Collins HM, Kim DH, Lim KH, Kam TS, Turyanska L, Bradshaw TD. Apoferritin-Encapsulated Jerantinine A for Transferrin Receptor Targeting and Enhanced Selectivity in Breast Cancer Therapy. ACS OMEGA 2022; 7:21473-21482. [PMID: 35785302 PMCID: PMC9244903 DOI: 10.1021/acsomega.2c00997] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/18/2022] [Accepted: 05/19/2022] [Indexed: 05/03/2023]
Abstract
The O-acetyl (or acetate) derivative of the Aspidosperma alkaloid Jerantinine A (JAa) elicits anti-tumor activity against cancer cell lines including mammary carcinoma cell lines irrespective of receptor status (0.14 < GI50 < 0.38 μM), targeting microtubule dynamics. By exploiting breast cancer cells' upregulated transferrin receptor 1 (TfR1) expression and apoferritin (AFt) recognition, we sought to develop an AFt JAa-delivery vehicle to enhance tumor-targeting and reduce systemic toxicity. Optimizing pH-mediated reassembly, ∼120 JAa molecules were entrapped within AFt. Western blot and flow cytometry demonstrate TfR1 expression in cancer cells. Enhanced internalization of 5-carboxyfluorescein-conjugated human AFt in SKBR3 and MDA-MB-231 cancer cells is observed compared to MRC5 fibroblasts. Accordingly, AFt-JAa delivers significantly greater intracellular JAa levels to SKBR3 and MDA-MB-231 cells than naked JAa (0.2 μM) treatment alone. Compared to naked JAa (0.2 μM), AFt-JAa achieves enhanced growth inhibition (2.5-14-fold; <0.02 μM < GI50 < 0.15 μM) in breast cancer cells; AFt-JAa treatment results in significantly reduced clonal survival, more profound cell cycle perturbation including G2/M arrest, greater reduction in cell numbers, and increased apoptosis compared to the naked agent (p < 0.01). Decreased PLK1 and Mcl-1 expression, together with the appearance of cleaved poly (ADP-ribose)-polymerase, corroborate the augmented potency of AFt-JAa. Hence, we demonstrate that AFt represents a biocompatible vehicle for targeted delivery of JAa, offering potential to minimize toxicity and enhance JAa activity in TfR1-expressing tumors.
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Affiliation(s)
- Haneen Abuzaid
- School
of Pharmacy, Biodiscovery Institute, The
University of Nottingham, University Park, Nottingham NG7 2RD, U.K.
| | - Salah Abdelrazig
- School
of Pharmacy, Biodiscovery Institute, The
University of Nottingham, University Park, Nottingham NG7 2RD, U.K.
| | - Lenny Ferreira
- School
of Pharmacy, Biodiscovery Institute, The
University of Nottingham, University Park, Nottingham NG7 2RD, U.K.
| | - Hilary M. Collins
- School
of Pharmacy, Biodiscovery Institute, The
University of Nottingham, University Park, Nottingham NG7 2RD, U.K.
| | - Dong-Hyun Kim
- School
of Pharmacy, Biodiscovery Institute, The
University of Nottingham, University Park, Nottingham NG7 2RD, U.K.
| | - Kuan-Hon Lim
- The
University of Nottingham Malaysia, Block B, Malaysia Campus, Jalan Broga, 43500 Semenyih, Selangor, Malaysia
| | - Toh-Seok Kam
- Department
of Chemistry, Faculty of Science, The University
of Malaya, 50603 Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia
| | - Lyudmila Turyanska
- Faculty
of Engineering, The University of Nottingham, Additive Manufacturing Building,
Jubilee Campus, University Park, Nottingham NG7 2RD, U.K.
| | - Tracey D. Bradshaw
- School
of Pharmacy, Biodiscovery Institute, The
University of Nottingham, University Park, Nottingham NG7 2RD, U.K.
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159
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Reissig TM, Uhrig S, Jost PJ, Luchini C, Vicentini C, Liffers ST, Allgäuer M, Adsay V, Scarpa A, Lawlor RT, Fröhling S, Stenzinger A, Klöppel G, Schildhaus HU, Siveke JT. MCL1 as putative target in pancreatoblastoma. Virchows Arch 2022; 481:265-272. [PMID: 35668118 PMCID: PMC9343273 DOI: 10.1007/s00428-022-03349-w] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/07/2021] [Revised: 04/26/2022] [Accepted: 05/23/2022] [Indexed: 12/05/2022]
Abstract
Pancreatoblastoma (PB) is a rare tumor of the pancreas. In case of metastases, the treatment options are sparse and targeted approaches are not developed. We here evaluate MCL1 amplification as a putative target in PB. Thirteen samples from adult (10/13) and pediatric patients (3/13) were collected. Three of these samples had been previously subjected to whole-exome sequencing (2 cases) or whole-genome sequencing (1 case) within a precision oncology program (NCT/DKTK MASTER), and this analysis had shown copy number gains of MCL1 gene. We established a fluorescence in situ hybridization (FISH) test to assess the copy number alterations of MCL1 gene in 13 formalin-fixed paraffin-embedded PBs, including the 3 cases assessed by genome sequencing. FISH analysis showed the amplification of MCL1 in 2 cases (both were adult PB), one of which was a case with the highest copy number gain at genomic analysis. In both cases, the average gene copy number per cell was ≥ 5.7 and the MCL1/1p12 ratio was ≥ 2.4. Our data support MCL1 as a putative target in PB. Patients with MCL1-amplified PB might benefit from MCL1 inhibition. Sequencing data is useful to screen for amplification; however, the established FISH for MCL1 can help to determine the level and cellular heterogeneity of MCL1 amplification more accurately.
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Affiliation(s)
- Timm M Reissig
- Bridge Institute of Experimental Tumor Therapy, West German Cancer Center, University Hospital Essen, University Duisburg-Essen, Hufelandstrasse 55, 45147, Essen, Germany
- Division of Solid Tumor Translational Oncology, German Cancer Research Center (DKFZ) and German Cancer Consortium (DKTK), Partner Site University Hospital Essen, Heidelberg, Germany
- Department of Medical Oncology, West German Cancer Center, University Hospital Essen, Essen, Germany
- German Cancer Consortium (DKTK), Partner Site University Hospital Essen, Essen, Germany
| | - Sebastian Uhrig
- Computational Oncology Group, Molecular Diagnostics Program, NCT Heidelberg and DKFZ, Heidelberg, Germany
- Division of Applied Bioinformatics, German Cancer Research Center (DKFZ) and National Center for Tumor Diseases (NCT) Heidelberg, Heidelberg, Germany
- German Cancer Consortium (DKTK), Heidelberg, Germany
| | - Philipp J Jost
- Department of Medicine III, Klinikum rechts der Isar, TUM School of Medicine, Technical University of Munich, Munich, Germany
- Division of Clinical Oncology, Department of Medicine, Medical University of Graz, Graz, Austria
| | - Claudio Luchini
- Department of Diagnostics and Public Health, Section of Pathology, University and Hospital Trust of Verona, Verona, Italy
- ARC-NET Research Centre, University of Verona, Verona, Italy
| | - Caterina Vicentini
- Department of Diagnostics and Public Health, Section of Pathology, University and Hospital Trust of Verona, Verona, Italy
| | - Sven-Thorsten Liffers
- Bridge Institute of Experimental Tumor Therapy, West German Cancer Center, University Hospital Essen, University Duisburg-Essen, Hufelandstrasse 55, 45147, Essen, Germany
- Division of Solid Tumor Translational Oncology, German Cancer Research Center (DKFZ) and German Cancer Consortium (DKTK), Partner Site University Hospital Essen, Heidelberg, Germany
- German Cancer Consortium (DKTK), Partner Site University Hospital Essen, Essen, Germany
| | - Michael Allgäuer
- Institute of Pathology, University Hospital Heidelberg, Heidelberg, Germany
| | - Volkan Adsay
- Department of Pathology and Research Center for Translational Medicine (KUTTAM), Koç University, Istanbul, Turkey
| | - Aldo Scarpa
- Department of Diagnostics and Public Health, Section of Pathology, University and Hospital Trust of Verona, Verona, Italy
- ARC-NET Research Centre, University of Verona, Verona, Italy
| | | | - Stefan Fröhling
- German Cancer Consortium (DKTK), Heidelberg, Germany
- Division of Translational Medical Oncology, National Center for Tumor Diseases (NCT) Heidelberg and German Cancer Research Center (DKFZ), Heidelberg, Germany
| | - Albrecht Stenzinger
- German Cancer Consortium (DKTK), Heidelberg, Germany
- Institute of Pathology, University Hospital Heidelberg, Heidelberg, Germany
| | - Günter Klöppel
- Department of Pathology, Technical University of Munich, Munich, Germany
| | - Hans-Ulrich Schildhaus
- German Cancer Consortium (DKTK), Partner Site University Hospital Essen, Essen, Germany.
- Institute of Pathology, West German Cancer Center, University Hospital Essen, University Duisburg-Essen, Hufelandstrasse 55, 45147, Essen, Germany.
| | - Jens T Siveke
- Bridge Institute of Experimental Tumor Therapy, West German Cancer Center, University Hospital Essen, University Duisburg-Essen, Hufelandstrasse 55, 45147, Essen, Germany.
- Division of Solid Tumor Translational Oncology, German Cancer Research Center (DKFZ) and German Cancer Consortium (DKTK), Partner Site University Hospital Essen, Heidelberg, Germany.
- Department of Medical Oncology, West German Cancer Center, University Hospital Essen, Essen, Germany.
- German Cancer Consortium (DKTK), Partner Site University Hospital Essen, Essen, Germany.
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160
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Relapsed acute myeloid leukemia in children and adolescents: current treatment options and future strategies. Leukemia 2022; 36:1951-1960. [PMID: 35668109 DOI: 10.1038/s41375-022-01619-9] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/31/2022] [Revised: 05/18/2022] [Accepted: 05/26/2022] [Indexed: 11/08/2022]
Abstract
Pediatric acute myeloid leukemia (AML) develops from clonal expansion of hematopoietic precursor cells and is characterized by morphologic and cytomolecular heterogeneity. Although the past 40 years have seen significant improvements in overall survival, the prevailing treatment challenges in pediatric AML are the prevention of relapse and the management of relapsed disease. Approximately 25% of children and adolescents with AML suffer disease relapse and face a poor prognosis. Our greater understanding of the genomic, epigenomic, metabolomic, and immunologic pathophysiology of relapsed AML allows for better therapeutic strategies that are being developed for pediatric clinical trials. The development of biologically rational agents is critical as conventional chemotherapeutic salvage regimens are not effective for all patients and pose risk of organ toxicity in heavily pretreated patients. Another major barrier to improvement in outcomes for relapsed pediatric AML is the historic lack of availability and participation in clinical trials. There are ongoing efforts to launch multinational clinical trials of emerging therapies. The purpose of this review is to summarize currently available and newly developed therapies for relapsed pediatric AML.
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161
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Wei Y, Amend B, Todenhöfer T, Lipke N, Aicher WK, Fend F, Stenzl A, Harland N. Urinary Tract Tumor Organoids Reveal Eminent Differences in Drug Sensitivities When Compared to 2-Dimensional Culture Systems. Int J Mol Sci 2022; 23:ijms23116305. [PMID: 35682984 PMCID: PMC9181330 DOI: 10.3390/ijms23116305] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/28/2022] [Revised: 05/25/2022] [Accepted: 06/01/2022] [Indexed: 12/31/2022] Open
Abstract
Generation of organoids from urinary tract tumor samples was pioneered a few years ago. We generated organoids from two upper tract urothelial carcinomas and from one bladder cancer sample, and confirmed the expression of cytokeratins as urothelial antigens, vimentin as a mesenchymal marker, and fibroblast growth factor receptor 3 by immunohistochemistry. We investigated the dose response curves of two novel components, venetoclax versus S63845, in comparison to the clinical standard cisplatin in organoids in comparison to the corresponding two-dimensional cultures. Normal urothelial cells and tumor lines RT4 and HT1197 served as controls. We report that upper tract urothelial carcinoma cells and bladder cancer cells in two-dimensional cultures yielded clearly different sensitivities towards venetoclax, S63845, and cisplatin. Two-dimensional cultures were more sensitive at low drug concentrations, while organoids yielded higher drug efficacies at higher doses. In some two-dimensional cell viability experiments, colorimetric assays yielded different IC50 toxicity levels when compared to chemiluminescence assays. Organoids exhibited distinct sensitivities towards cisplatin and to a somewhat lesser extent towards venetoclax or S63845, respectively, and significantly different sensitivities towards the three drugs investigated when compared to the corresponding two-dimensional cultures. We conclude that organoids maintained inter-individual sensitivities towards venetoclax, S63845, and cisplatin. The preclinical models and test systems employed may bias the results of cytotoxicity studies.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yi Wei
- Center for Medicine Research, Eberhard Karls University, 72072 Tuebingen, Germany; (Y.W.); (N.L.); (W.K.A.)
| | - Bastian Amend
- Department of Urology, University Hospital, 72076 Tuebingen, Germany; (B.A.); (T.T.); (A.S.)
| | - Tilman Todenhöfer
- Department of Urology, University Hospital, 72076 Tuebingen, Germany; (B.A.); (T.T.); (A.S.)
| | - Nizar Lipke
- Center for Medicine Research, Eberhard Karls University, 72072 Tuebingen, Germany; (Y.W.); (N.L.); (W.K.A.)
| | - Wilhelm K. Aicher
- Center for Medicine Research, Eberhard Karls University, 72072 Tuebingen, Germany; (Y.W.); (N.L.); (W.K.A.)
| | - Falko Fend
- Institute for Pathology, Eberhard Karls University, 72076 Tuebingen, Germany;
| | - Arnulf Stenzl
- Department of Urology, University Hospital, 72076 Tuebingen, Germany; (B.A.); (T.T.); (A.S.)
| | - Niklas Harland
- Department of Urology, University Hospital, 72076 Tuebingen, Germany; (B.A.); (T.T.); (A.S.)
- Correspondence: ; Tel.: +49-7071-298-6613
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162
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Chen R, Chen Y, Xiong P, Zheleva D, Blake D, Keating MJ, Wierda WG, Plunkett W. Cyclin-dependent kinase inhibitor fadraciclib (CYC065) depletes anti-apoptotic protein and synergizes with venetoclax in primary chronic lymphocytic leukemia cells. Leukemia 2022; 36:1596-1608. [PMID: 35383271 PMCID: PMC9162916 DOI: 10.1038/s41375-022-01553-w] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/16/2021] [Revised: 03/10/2022] [Accepted: 03/18/2022] [Indexed: 12/24/2022]
Abstract
Fadraciclib (CYC065) is a second-generation aminopurine CDK2/9 inhibitor with increased potency and selectivity toward CDK2 and CDK9 compared to seliciclib (R-roscovitine). In chronic lymphocytic leukemia (CLL), a disease that depends on the over-expression of anti-apoptotic proteins for its survival, inhibition of CDK9 by fadraciclib reduced phosphorylation of the C-terminal domain of RNA polymerase II and blocked transcription in vitro; these actions depleted the intrinsically short-lived anti-apoptotic protein Mcl-1 and induced apoptosis. While the simulated bone marrow and lymph node microenvironments induced Mcl-1 expression and protected CLL cells from apoptosis, these conditions did not prolong the turnover rate of Mcl-1, and fadraciclib efficiently abrogated the protective effect. Further, fadraciclib was synergistic with the Bcl-2 antagonist venetoclax, inducing more profound CLL cell death, especially in samples with 17p deletion. While fadraciclib, venetoclax, and the combination each had distinct kinetics of cell death induction, their activities were reversible, as no additional cell death was induced upon removal of the drugs. The best combination effects were achieved when both drugs were maintained together. Altogether, this study provides a rationale for the clinical development of fadraciclib in CLL, either alone or in combination with a Bcl-2 antagonist.
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Affiliation(s)
- Rong Chen
- Department of Experimental Therapeutics, The University of Texas MD Anderson Cancer Center, Houston, TX, USA
| | - Yuling Chen
- Department of Experimental Therapeutics, The University of Texas MD Anderson Cancer Center, Houston, TX, USA
| | - Ping Xiong
- Department of Experimental Therapeutics, The University of Texas MD Anderson Cancer Center, Houston, TX, USA
| | | | | | - Michael J Keating
- Department of Leukemia, The University of Texas MD Anderson Cancer Center, Houston, TX, USA
| | - William G Wierda
- Department of Leukemia, The University of Texas MD Anderson Cancer Center, Houston, TX, USA
| | - William Plunkett
- Department of Experimental Therapeutics, The University of Texas MD Anderson Cancer Center, Houston, TX, USA.
- Department of Leukemia, The University of Texas MD Anderson Cancer Center, Houston, TX, USA.
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163
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Sulkshane P, Teni T. Myeloid cell leukemia-1: a formidable barrier to anticancer therapeutics and the quest of targeting it. EXPLORATION OF TARGETED ANTI-TUMOR THERAPY 2022; 3:278-296. [PMID: 36045907 PMCID: PMC9400788 DOI: 10.37349/etat.2022.00083] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/05/2021] [Accepted: 03/16/2022] [Indexed: 11/22/2022] Open
Abstract
The antiapoptotic B cell lymphoma-2 (Bcl-2) family members are apical regulators of the intrinsic pathway of apoptosis that orchestrate mitochondrial outer membrane permeabilization (MOMP) through interactions with their proapoptotic counterparts. Overexpression of antiapoptotic Bcl-2 family proteins has been linked to therapy resistance and poor prognosis in diverse cancers. Among the antiapoptotic Bcl-2 family members, predominant overexpression of the prosurvival myeloid cell leukemia-1 (Mcl-1) has been reported in a myriad of hematological malignancies and solid tumors, contributing to therapy resistance and poor outcomes, thus making it a potential druggable target. The unique structure of Mcl-1 and its complex regulatory mechanism makes it an adaptive prosurvival switch that ensures tumor cell survival despite therapeutic intervention. This review focusses on diverse mechanisms adopted by tumor cells to maintain sustained elevated levels of Mcl-1 and how high Mcl-1 levels contribute to resistance in conventional as well as targeted therapies. Moreover, recent developments in the Mcl-1-targeted therapeutics and the underlying challenges and considerations in designing novel Mcl-1 inhibitors are also discussed.
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Affiliation(s)
- Prasad Sulkshane
- Glickman Laboratory, Faculty of Biology, Technion-Israel Institute of Technology, Haifa 3200003, Israel
| | - Tanuja Teni
- Teni Laboratory, Advanced Centre for Treatment, Research and Education in Cancer (ACTREC), Tata Memorial Centre, Kharghar, Navi Mumbai 410210, India; Homi Bhabha National Institute, Training School Complex, Mumbai 400094, India
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164
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Luo S, Su T, Zhou X, Hu WX, Hu J. Chromosome 1 instability in multiple myeloma: Aberrant gene expression, pathogenesis, and potential therapeutic target. FASEB J 2022; 36:e22341. [PMID: 35579877 DOI: 10.1096/fj.202200354] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/04/2022] [Accepted: 04/25/2022] [Indexed: 11/11/2022]
Abstract
Multiple myeloma (MM), the terminally differentiated B cells malignancy, is widely considered to be incurable since many patients have either developed drug resistance or experienced an eventual relapse. To develop precise and efficient therapeutic strategies, we must understand the pathogenesis of MM. Thus, unveiling the driver events of MM and its further clonal evolution will help us understand this complicated disease. Chromosome 1 instabilities are the most common genomic alterations that participate in MM pathogenesis, and these aberrations of chromosome 1 mainly include copy number variations and structural changes. The chromosome 1q gains/amplifications and 1p deletions are the most frequent structural changes of chromosomes in MM. In this review, we intend to focus on the genes that are affected by chromosome 1 instability: some tumor suppressors were lost or down regulated in 1p deletions, and others that contributed to tumorigenesis were upregulated in 1q gains/amplifications. We have summarized their biological function as well as their roles in the MM pathogenesis, hoping to uncover potential novel therapeutical targets and promote the development of future therapeutic approaches.
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Affiliation(s)
- Saiqun Luo
- Molecular Biology Research Center, School of Life Sciences, Central South University, Changsha, China
| | - Tao Su
- Department of Hematology, Xiangya Hospital, Central South University, Changsha, China
| | - Xiang Zhou
- Molecular Biology Research Center, School of Life Sciences, Central South University, Changsha, China
| | - Wei-Xin Hu
- Molecular Biology Research Center, School of Life Sciences, Central South University, Changsha, China
| | - Jingping Hu
- Molecular Biology Research Center, School of Life Sciences, Central South University, Changsha, China
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165
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Zhao H, Jiang Y, Lin F, Zhong M, Tan J, Zhou Y, Liu L, Li G, Deng M, Xu B. Chidamide and apatinib are therapeutically synergistic in acute myeloid leukemia stem and progenitor cells. Exp Hematol Oncol 2022; 11:29. [PMID: 35581670 PMCID: PMC9112613 DOI: 10.1186/s40164-022-00282-1] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/25/2022] [Accepted: 04/26/2022] [Indexed: 12/23/2022] Open
Abstract
Background Leukemia stem cells (LSCs) are responsible for the initiation and perpetuation of acute myeloid leukemia (AML), and also represent leukemia relapse reservoirs with limited therapeutic approaches. Thus, additional treatment strategies are medical unmet needs to eliminate LSCs. Methods Cell counting kit-8 and Annexin-V-FITC/PI assays were used to examine the interaction of chidamide and apatinib on LSC-like cell lines (CD34+CD38− KG1α and Kasumi-1 cells) and primary CD34+ AML cells. AML patient-derived xenografts were established to investigate the in vivo efficacy of the combined regimen. RNA sequencing, Glutamine uptake assay, oxygen consumption assay, and western blotting were employed to explore the molecule mechanism for the cytotoxicity of chidamide with or without apatinib against LSC-like cell lines and/or primary CD34+ AML cells. Results In this study, chidamide and apatinib were synergisitc to diminish cell viability and induce apoptosis in CD34+CD38− KG1α and Kasumi-1 cells and in CD34+ primary AML cells. Importantly, chidamide combined with apatinib had more powerful in reducing leukemia burden and improving prognosis than single drug alone in an AML PDX model without significant adverse effects. Chidamide cytotoxicity was associated with decreasing glutamine uptake. The therapeutic synergy of chidamide and apatinib correlated with reprogramming of energy metabolic pathways. In addition, inactivating the VEGFR function and reducing the anti-apoptotic ability of the Bcl2 family contributed to the synergism of chidamide and apatinib in CD34+CD38− KG1α cells and CD34+ primary AML cells. Conclusion Chidamide in combination with apatinib might be a promising therapeutic strategy to get rid of the population of AML stem and progenitor cells, and thus provide a potentially curative option in the treatment of patients with AML, although further clinical evaluations are required to substantiate the conclusion. Supplementary Information The online version contains supplementary material available at 10.1186/s40164-022-00282-1.
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Affiliation(s)
- Haijun Zhao
- Department of Hematology, The First Affiliated Hospital of Xiamen University and Institute of Hematology, School of Medicine, Xiamen University, Xiamen, 361003, People's Republic of China.,Key Laboratory of Xiamen for Diagnosis and Treatment of Hematological Malignancy, No. 55, Shizhen Hai Road, Xiamen, 361003, People's Republic of China
| | - Yuelong Jiang
- Department of Hematology, The First Affiliated Hospital of Xiamen University and Institute of Hematology, School of Medicine, Xiamen University, Xiamen, 361003, People's Republic of China.,Key Laboratory of Xiamen for Diagnosis and Treatment of Hematological Malignancy, No. 55, Shizhen Hai Road, Xiamen, 361003, People's Republic of China
| | - Fusheng Lin
- Department of Hematology, The First Affiliated Hospital of Xiamen University and Institute of Hematology, School of Medicine, Xiamen University, Xiamen, 361003, People's Republic of China.,Key Laboratory of Xiamen for Diagnosis and Treatment of Hematological Malignancy, No. 55, Shizhen Hai Road, Xiamen, 361003, People's Republic of China
| | - Mengya Zhong
- Department of Hematology, The First Affiliated Hospital of Xiamen University and Institute of Hematology, School of Medicine, Xiamen University, Xiamen, 361003, People's Republic of China.,Key Laboratory of Xiamen for Diagnosis and Treatment of Hematological Malignancy, No. 55, Shizhen Hai Road, Xiamen, 361003, People's Republic of China
| | - Jinshui Tan
- Department of Hematology, The First Affiliated Hospital of Xiamen University and Institute of Hematology, School of Medicine, Xiamen University, Xiamen, 361003, People's Republic of China.,Key Laboratory of Xiamen for Diagnosis and Treatment of Hematological Malignancy, No. 55, Shizhen Hai Road, Xiamen, 361003, People's Republic of China
| | - Yong Zhou
- Department of Hematology, The First Affiliated Hospital of Xiamen University and Institute of Hematology, School of Medicine, Xiamen University, Xiamen, 361003, People's Republic of China.,Key Laboratory of Xiamen for Diagnosis and Treatment of Hematological Malignancy, No. 55, Shizhen Hai Road, Xiamen, 361003, People's Republic of China
| | - Long Liu
- Department of Hematology, The First Affiliated Hospital of Xiamen University and Institute of Hematology, School of Medicine, Xiamen University, Xiamen, 361003, People's Republic of China.,Key Laboratory of Xiamen for Diagnosis and Treatment of Hematological Malignancy, No. 55, Shizhen Hai Road, Xiamen, 361003, People's Republic of China
| | - Guowei Li
- Department of Hematology, Huizhou Municipal Central Hospital, Huizhou, 516001, People's Republic of China.
| | - Manman Deng
- Department of Hematology, The First Affiliated Hospital of Xiamen University and Institute of Hematology, School of Medicine, Xiamen University, Xiamen, 361003, People's Republic of China. .,Key Laboratory of Xiamen for Diagnosis and Treatment of Hematological Malignancy, No. 55, Shizhen Hai Road, Xiamen, 361003, People's Republic of China.
| | - Bing Xu
- Department of Hematology, The First Affiliated Hospital of Xiamen University and Institute of Hematology, School of Medicine, Xiamen University, Xiamen, 361003, People's Republic of China. .,Key Laboratory of Xiamen for Diagnosis and Treatment of Hematological Malignancy, No. 55, Shizhen Hai Road, Xiamen, 361003, People's Republic of China.
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166
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Fitzgerald MC, O’Halloran PJ, Connolly NMC, Murphy BM. Targeting the apoptosis pathway to treat tumours of the paediatric nervous system. Cell Death Dis 2022; 13:460. [PMID: 35568716 PMCID: PMC9107479 DOI: 10.1038/s41419-022-04900-y] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/02/2022] [Revised: 04/25/2022] [Accepted: 04/29/2022] [Indexed: 12/14/2022]
Abstract
New, more effective therapeutics are required for the treatment of paediatric cancers. Current treatment protocols of cytotoxic treatments including chemotherapy trigger cancer-cell death by engaging the apoptosis pathway, and chemotherapy efficacy is frequently impeded by apoptosis dysregulation. Apoptosis dysregulation, through genetic or epigenetic mechanisms, is a feature of many cancer types, and contributes to reduced treatment response, disease progression and ultimately treatment resistance. Novel approaches are required to overcome dysregulated apoptosis signalling, increase the efficacy of cancer treatment and improve patient outcomes. Here, we provide an insight into current knowledge of how the apoptosis pathway is dysregulated in paediatric nervous system tumours, with a focus on TRAIL receptors, the BCL-2 proteins and the IAP family, and highlight preclinical evidence demonstrating that pharmacological manipulation of the apoptosis pathway can restore apoptosis signalling and sensitise cancer cells to treatment. Finally, we discuss the potential clinical implications of these findings.
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Affiliation(s)
- Marie-Claire Fitzgerald
- grid.4912.e0000 0004 0488 7120Department of Physiology & Medical Physics, Royal College of Surgeons in Ireland, 31A York Street, Dublin, D02 YN77 Ireland ,grid.417322.10000 0004 0516 3853National Children’s Research Centre at Children’s Health Ireland at Crumlin, Dublin, D12 N512 Ireland
| | - Philip J. O’Halloran
- grid.417322.10000 0004 0516 3853National Children’s Research Centre at Children’s Health Ireland at Crumlin, Dublin, D12 N512 Ireland ,grid.415490.d0000 0001 2177 007XDepartment of Neurosurgery, Queen Elizabeth Hospital, Birmingham, UK
| | - Niamh M. C. Connolly
- grid.4912.e0000 0004 0488 7120Department of Physiology & Medical Physics, Royal College of Surgeons in Ireland, 31A York Street, Dublin, D02 YN77 Ireland ,grid.4912.e0000 0004 0488 7120Centre for Systems Medicine, Royal College of Surgeons in Ireland, 31A York Street, Dublin, D02 YN77 Ireland
| | - Brona M. Murphy
- grid.4912.e0000 0004 0488 7120Department of Physiology & Medical Physics, Royal College of Surgeons in Ireland, 31A York Street, Dublin, D02 YN77 Ireland ,grid.417322.10000 0004 0516 3853National Children’s Research Centre at Children’s Health Ireland at Crumlin, Dublin, D12 N512 Ireland ,grid.4912.e0000 0004 0488 7120Centre for Systems Medicine, Royal College of Surgeons in Ireland, 31A York Street, Dublin, D02 YN77 Ireland
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Abstract
PURPOSE OF REVIEW While the treatment of acute lymphoblastic leukemia (ALL) has improved significantly over the last 30 years, the majority of adult patients will have their disease relapse. The BCL-2 gene was initially discovered from follicular lymphoma research; however, the BH3 family of proteins has is emerging to be crucial in patients with ALL due to their reliance on the balance of these pro-apoptotic and anti-apoptotic proteins in the BH3 family. We discuss apoptosis in ALL, the reliance mechanisms, drug development in this space, and areas for future research. RECENT FINDINGS The first drugs that were developed to inhibit the BCL-2 pathway include both venetoclax (BCL-2 specific inhibitor) and navitoclax (BCL-2, BCL-XL, and BCL-W). These drugs show promise and have obtained complete remissions, minimal residual disease negative status, and have been used as a bridge to allogeneic hematopoietic stem cell transplantation in acute myeloid leukemia and chronic lymphocytic leukemia. There are multiple ongoing clinical trials looking to assess the use of BCL-2 inhibition with chemotherapy, targeted therapies, and bi-specific T-cell engager therapies not only in both frontline and relapsed refractory ALL but also in consolidation and maintenance phases. There is still a large need for improvement of ALL outcomes in adult patients. Research has shown that ALL depends on the BCL-2 family of proteins for cell survival and proliferation. Targeting this pathway with BCL-2 inhibition has led to encouraging results, and future research is aimed at incorporating this targeted therapy into current treatment paradigms.
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Affiliation(s)
- Wesley M Smith
- Comprehensive Cancer Center of Wake Forest University, Winston Salem, NC, USA
| | - Daniel R Reed
- Comprehensive Cancer Center of Wake Forest University, Winston Salem, NC, USA.
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168
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Han KH, Kim AK, Kim DI. Enhanced Anti-Cancer Effects of Conditioned Medium from Hypoxic Human Adult Dermal Fibroblasts on Cervical Cancer Cells. Int J Mol Sci 2022; 23:ijms23095134. [PMID: 35563525 PMCID: PMC9100075 DOI: 10.3390/ijms23095134] [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: 04/08/2022] [Revised: 04/30/2022] [Accepted: 05/02/2022] [Indexed: 02/01/2023] Open
Abstract
Hypoxia regulates fibroblast function by changing intracellular signaling and secretion factors, that influence the states of nearby cells. In this work, we investigated how medium (CM) from human adult dermal fibroblasts (HDFs) cultured in normoxic and hypoxic conditions affected cervical cancer (HeLa) cells. The HeLa cells showed decreased cell viability, increased apoptosis, and cell cycle arrest in response to CM from hypoxic-cultured HDFs (H-CM) compared with CM from normoxic-cultured HDFs (N-CM). Among the proteins up-regulated (>2-fold) in H-CM compared with N-CM, lymphotoxin-beta receptor (LTBR) decreased the viability of HeLa cells. Among the intracellular proteins down-regulated (>2-fold) in HeLa cells treated with H-CM compared with N-CM, the most enriched biological process GO term and KEGG pathway were protein deubiquitination and hsa05166:HTLV-I infection, respectively. In the protein−protein interaction network of intracellular proteins with altered expression (>2-fold), 1 up-regulated (TNF) and 8 down-regulated (ESR1, MCL1, TBP, CD19, LCK, PCNA, CHEK1, and POLA1) hub proteins were defined. Among the down-regulated hub proteins, the most enriched biological process GO term and KEGG pathway were leading strand elongation and hsa05166:HTLV-I infection, respectively. This study reveals that H-CM had stronger anti-cancer effects on cervical cancer cells than N-CM and induced intracellular signaling patterns related to those enhanced anti-cancer effects.
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Affiliation(s)
| | | | - Dong-ik Kim
- Correspondence: ; Tel.: +82-2-3410-3467; Fax: +82-2-3410-0040
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169
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Montero J, Haq R. Adapted to Survive: Targeting Cancer Cells with BH3 Mimetics. Cancer Discov 2022; 12:1217-1232. [PMID: 35491624 PMCID: PMC9306285 DOI: 10.1158/2159-8290.cd-21-1334] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/06/2021] [Revised: 01/11/2022] [Accepted: 02/10/2022] [Indexed: 01/07/2023]
Abstract
A hallmark of cancer is cell death evasion, underlying suboptimal responses to chemotherapy, targeted agents, and immunotherapies. The approval of the antiapoptotic BCL2 antagonist venetoclax has finally validated the potential of targeting apoptotic pathways in patients with cancer. Nevertheless, pharmacologic modulators of cell death have shown markedly varied responses in preclinical and clinical studies. Here, we review emerging concepts in the use of this class of therapies. Building on these observations, we propose that treatment-induced changes in apoptotic dependency, rather than pretreatment dependencies, will need to be recognized and targeted to realize the precise deployment of these new pharmacologic agents. SIGNIFICANCE Targeting antiapoptotic family members has proven efficacious and tolerable in some cancers, but responses are infrequent, particularly for patients with solid tumors. Biomarkers to aid patient selection have been lacking. Precision functional approaches that overcome adaptive resistance to these compounds could drive durable responses to chemotherapy, targeted therapy, and immunotherapies.
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Affiliation(s)
- Joan Montero
- Institute for Bioengineering of Catalonia (IBEC), Barcelona Institute of Science and Technology (BIST), Barcelona, Spain.,Corresponding Authors: Rizwan Haq, Department of Medical Oncology M423A, Dana-Farber Cancer Institute, 450 Brookline Avenue, Boston, MA 02215. Phone: 617-632-6168; E-mail: ; and Joan Montero, Institute for Bioengineering of Catalonia (IBEC), Barcelona Institute of Science and Technology (BIST), c/Baldiri Reixac 15-21, Barcelona 08028, Spain. Phone: 34-93-403-9956; E-mail:
| | - Rizwan Haq
- Department of Medical Oncology, Dana-Farber Cancer Institute, Harvard Medical School, Boston, Massachusetts.,Division of Molecular and Cellular Oncology, Dana-Farber Cancer Institute, Harvard Medical School, Boston, Massachusetts.,Corresponding Authors: Rizwan Haq, Department of Medical Oncology M423A, Dana-Farber Cancer Institute, 450 Brookline Avenue, Boston, MA 02215. Phone: 617-632-6168; E-mail: ; and Joan Montero, Institute for Bioengineering of Catalonia (IBEC), Barcelona Institute of Science and Technology (BIST), c/Baldiri Reixac 15-21, Barcelona 08028, Spain. Phone: 34-93-403-9956; E-mail:
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170
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Muttiah C, Whittle JR, Oakman C, Lindeman GJ. PALVEN: phase Ib trial of palbociclib, letrozole and venetoclax in estrogen receptor- and BCL2-positive advanced breast cancer. Future Oncol 2022; 18:1805-1816. [PMID: 35187951 DOI: 10.2217/fon-2021-1450] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/21/2022] Open
Abstract
The addition of a CDK4/6 inhibitor to endocrine therapy improves progression-free and overall survival in women with metastatic estrogen receptor-positive breast cancer. In that setting, CDK4/6 inhibitors induce a potent cell-cycle arrest (which may be accompanied by tumor senescence) but fail to induce apoptotic cell death. Venetoclax is a potent inhibitor of BCL2, a pro-survival protein overexpressed in the majority of estrogen receptor-positive cancers. Pre-clinical findings indicate that venetoclax augments tumor response to the CDK4/6 inhibitor palbociclib by triggering apoptosis, including in senescent cells. The PALVEN phase Ib trial will further examine this finding. The primary objective is to identify the maximum tolerated dose and determine the recommended phase II dose for palbociclib, letrozole and venetoclax combination therapy. Clinical Trial Registration: NCT03900884 (ClinicalTrials.gov).
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Affiliation(s)
- Christine Muttiah
- Peter MacCallum Cancer Centre, Melbourne, VIC, 3000, Australia
- The Walter & Eliza Hall Institute of Medical Research, Parkville, VIC, 3052, Australia
- The University of Melbourne, Parkville, VIC, 3010, Australia
| | - James R Whittle
- Peter MacCallum Cancer Centre, Melbourne, VIC, 3000, Australia
- The Walter & Eliza Hall Institute of Medical Research, Parkville, VIC, 3052, Australia
- The University of Melbourne, Parkville, VIC, 3010, Australia
| | - Catherine Oakman
- Western Health, Sunshine Hospital, St Albans, VIC, 3021, Australia
| | - Geoffrey J Lindeman
- Peter MacCallum Cancer Centre, Melbourne, VIC, 3000, Australia
- The Walter & Eliza Hall Institute of Medical Research, Parkville, VIC, 3052, Australia
- The University of Melbourne, Parkville, VIC, 3010, Australia
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171
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Loss of TRP53 reduces but does not overcome dependency of lymphoma cells on MCL-1. Cell Death Differ 2022; 29:1074-1076. [PMID: 35091693 PMCID: PMC9090779 DOI: 10.1038/s41418-022-00946-9] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/10/2021] [Revised: 01/18/2022] [Accepted: 01/18/2022] [Indexed: 11/08/2022] Open
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172
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Single-cell transcriptomics identifies Mcl-1 as a target for senolytic therapy in cancer. Nat Commun 2022; 13:2177. [PMID: 35449130 PMCID: PMC9023465 DOI: 10.1038/s41467-022-29824-1] [Citation(s) in RCA: 41] [Impact Index Per Article: 20.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/16/2021] [Accepted: 03/24/2022] [Indexed: 01/10/2023] Open
Abstract
Cells subjected to treatment with anti-cancer therapies can evade apoptosis through cellular senescence. Persistent senescent tumor cells remain metabolically active, possess a secretory phenotype, and can promote tumor proliferation and metastatic dissemination. Removal of senescent tumor cells (senolytic therapy) has therefore emerged as a promising therapeutic strategy. Here, using single-cell RNA-sequencing, we find that senescent tumor cells rely on the anti-apoptotic gene Mcl-1 for their survival. Mcl-1 is upregulated in senescent tumor cells, including cells expressing low levels of Bcl-2, an established target for senolytic therapy. While treatment with the Bcl-2 inhibitor Navitoclax results in the reduction of metastases in tumor bearing mice, treatment with the Mcl-1 inhibitor S63845 leads to complete elimination of senescent tumor cells and metastases. These findings provide insights on the mechanism by which senescent tumor cells survive and reveal a vulnerability that can be exploited for cancer therapy. Cell senescence remains a barrier to tumor elimination in many cancers. Here, the authors use single cell RNA-seq to identify a role for Mcl-1 in senescent cell survival, and show that Mcl-1 inhibition may be an effective therapeutic strategy.
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The BCL-2 inhibitor ABT-199/venetoclax synergizes with proteasome inhibition via transactivation of the MCL-1 antagonist NOXA. Cell Death Dis 2022; 8:215. [PMID: 35443750 PMCID: PMC9021261 DOI: 10.1038/s41420-022-01009-1] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/08/2021] [Revised: 03/29/2022] [Accepted: 03/29/2022] [Indexed: 12/31/2022]
Abstract
Enhanced expression of anti-apoptotic B-cell lymphoma 2 (BCL-2) protein is frequent in cancer. Targeting of BCL-2 with the specific inhibitor ABT-199 (Venetoclax) has significant clinical activity in malignant diseases such as chronic lymphocytic leukemia and multiple myeloma. The small molecule drug ABT-199 mimics the pro-apoptotic BCL-2 homology domain 3 of BH3-only proteins and blocks the hydrophobic BC-groove in BCL-2. We have previously shown that ABT-199 synergizes with the proteasome inhibitor (PI) bortezomib in soft tissue sarcoma derived cells and cell lines to induce apoptosis. Synergistic apoptosis induction relies on the pore-forming effector BAX and expression of the pro-apoptotic BH3-only protein NOXA. Bortezomib augments expression of NOXA by blocking its proteasomal degradation. Interestingly, shown here for the first time, expression of NOXA is strongly enhanced by ABT-199 induced integrated stress response (ISR). ISR transcription factors ATF3 & ATF4 mediate transactivation of the BH3-only protein NOXA which specifically inhibits the anti-apoptotic MCL-1. Thus, NOXA potentiates the efficacy of the BCL-2 inhibitor ABT-199 by simultaneous inhibition of MCL-1. Hence, ABT-199 has a double impact by directly blocking anti-apoptotic BCL-2 and inhibiting MCL-1 via transactivated NOXA. By preventing degradation of NOXA PIs synergize with ABT-199. Synergism of ABT-199 and PIs therefore occurs on several, previously unexpected levels. This finding should prompt clinical evaluation of combinatorial regimens in further malignancies.
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174
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Elwakeel A. Abrogating the Interaction Between p53 and Mortalin (Grp75/HSPA9/mtHsp70) for Cancer Therapy: The Story so far. Front Cell Dev Biol 2022; 10:879632. [PMID: 35493098 PMCID: PMC9047732 DOI: 10.3389/fcell.2022.879632] [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: 02/20/2022] [Accepted: 03/15/2022] [Indexed: 11/22/2022] Open
Abstract
p53 is a transcription factor that activates the expression of a set of genes that serve as a critical barrier to oncogenesis. Inactivation of p53 is the most common characteristic in sporadic human cancers. Mortalin is a differentially sub-cellularly localized member of the heat shock protein 70 family of chaperones that has essential mitochondrial and extra-mitochondrial functions. Elevated mortalin levels in multiple cancerous tissues and tumor-derived cell lines emphasized its key role in oncogenesis. One of mortalin’s major oncogenic roles is the inactivation of p53. Mortalin binds to p53 sequestering it in the cytoplasm. Hence, p53 cannot freely shuttle to the nucleus to perform its tumor suppressor functions as a transcription factor. This protein-protein interaction was reported to be cancer-specific, hence, a selective druggable target for a rationalistic cancer therapeutic strategy. In this review article, the chronological identification of mortalin-p53 interactions is summarized, the challenges and general strategies for targeting protein-protein interactions are briefly discussed, and information about compounds that have been reported to abrogate mortalin-p53 interaction is provided. Finally, the reasons why the disruption of this druggable interaction has not yet been applied clinically are discussed.
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175
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MEK and MCL-1 sequential inhibition synergize to enhance rhabdomyosarcoma treatment. Cell Death Dis 2022; 8:172. [PMID: 35393436 PMCID: PMC8989976 DOI: 10.1038/s41420-022-00959-w] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/04/2021] [Revised: 02/18/2022] [Accepted: 03/16/2022] [Indexed: 11/09/2022]
Abstract
Targeted agents have emerged as promising molecules for cancer treatment, but most of them fail to achieve complete tumor regression or attain durable remissions due to tumor adaptations. We used dynamic BH3 profiling to identify targeted agents effectiveness and anti-apoptotic adaptations upon targeted treatment in rhabdomyosarcoma. We focused on studying the use of BH3 mimetics to specifically inhibit pro-survival BCL-2 family proteins, overwhelm resistance to therapy and prevent relapse. We observed that the MEK1/2 inhibitor trametinib rapidly depleted the pro-apoptotic protein NOXA, thus increasing MCL-1 availability. Indeed, we found that the MCL-1 inhibitor S63845 synergistically enhanced trametinib cytotoxicity in rhabdomyosarcoma cells in vitro and in vivo. In conclusion, our findings indicate that the combination of a BH3 mimetic targeting MCL-1 with trametinib improves efficiency on rhabdomyosarcoma by blocking tumor adaptation to treatment.
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176
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Li X, Yang G, Zhang W, Qin B, Ye Z, Shi H, Zhao X, Chen Y, Song B, Mei Z, Zhao Q, Wang F. USP13: Multiple Functions and Target Inhibition. Front Cell Dev Biol 2022; 10:875124. [PMID: 35445009 PMCID: PMC9014248 DOI: 10.3389/fcell.2022.875124] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/13/2022] [Accepted: 03/08/2022] [Indexed: 12/13/2022] Open
Abstract
As a deubiquitination (DUB) enzyme, ubiquitin-specific protease 13 (USP13) is involved in a myriad of cellular processes, such as mitochondrial energy metabolism, autophagy, DNA damage response, and endoplasmic reticulum-associated degradation (ERAD), by regulating the deubiquitination of diverse key substrate proteins. Thus, dysregulation of USP13 can give rise to the occurrence and development of plenty of diseases, in particular malignant tumors. Given its implications in the stabilization of disease-related proteins and oncology targets, considerable efforts have been committed to the discovery of inhibitors targeting USP13. Here, we summarize an overview of the recent advances of the structure, function of USP13, and its relations to diseases, as well as discovery and development of inhibitors, aiming to provide the theoretical basis for investigation of the molecular mechanism of USP13 action and further development of more potent druggable inhibitors.
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Affiliation(s)
- Xiaolong Li
- Key Laboratory of Molecular Medicine and Biotherapy, Department of Biology, School of Life Science, Beijing Institute of Technology, Beijing, China
| | - Ge Yang
- Key Laboratory of Molecular Medicine and Biotherapy, Department of Biology, School of Life Science, Beijing Institute of Technology, Beijing, China
| | - Wenyao Zhang
- Key Laboratory of Molecular Medicine and Biotherapy, Department of Biology, School of Life Science, Beijing Institute of Technology, Beijing, China
| | - Biying Qin
- Key Laboratory of Molecular Medicine and Biotherapy, Department of Biology, School of Life Science, Beijing Institute of Technology, Beijing, China
| | - Zifan Ye
- Key Laboratory of Molecular Medicine and Biotherapy, Department of Biology, School of Life Science, Beijing Institute of Technology, Beijing, China
| | - Huijing Shi
- Key Laboratory of Molecular Medicine and Biotherapy, Department of Biology, School of Life Science, Beijing Institute of Technology, Beijing, China
| | - Xinmeng Zhao
- Key Laboratory of Molecular Medicine and Biotherapy, Department of Biology, School of Life Science, Beijing Institute of Technology, Beijing, China
| | - Yihang Chen
- Key Laboratory of Molecular Medicine and Biotherapy, Department of Biology, School of Life Science, Beijing Institute of Technology, Beijing, China
| | - Bowei Song
- Key Laboratory of Molecular Medicine and Biotherapy, Department of Biology, School of Life Science, Beijing Institute of Technology, Beijing, China
| | - Ziqing Mei
- School of Chemistry and Biological Engineering, University of Science and Technology Beijing, Beijing, China
| | | | - Feng Wang
- Key Laboratory of Molecular Medicine and Biotherapy, Department of Biology, School of Life Science, Beijing Institute of Technology, Beijing, China
- *Correspondence: Feng Wang,
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177
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Removal of BFL-1 sensitises some melanoma cells to killing by BH3 mimetic drugs. Cell Death Dis 2022; 13:301. [PMID: 35379799 PMCID: PMC8980089 DOI: 10.1038/s41419-022-04776-y] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/07/2022] [Revised: 03/16/2022] [Accepted: 03/25/2022] [Indexed: 12/23/2022]
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178
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Parkhurst A, Wang SZ, Findlay TR, Malebranche KJ, Odabas A, Alt J, Maxwell MJ, Kaur H, Peer CJ, Figg WD, Warren KE, Slusher BS, Eberhart CG, Raabe EH, Rubens JA. Dual mTORC1/2 inhibition compromises cell defenses against exogenous stress potentiating Obatoclax-induced cytotoxicity in atypical teratoid/rhabdoid tumors. Cell Death Dis 2022; 13:410. [PMID: 35484114 PMCID: PMC9050713 DOI: 10.1038/s41419-022-04868-9] [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: 11/18/2021] [Revised: 04/08/2022] [Accepted: 04/19/2022] [Indexed: 11/09/2022]
Abstract
AbstractAtypical teratoid/rhabdoid tumors (AT/RT) are the most common malignant brain tumors of infancy and have a dismal 4-year event-free survival (EFS) of 37%. We have previously shown that mTOR activation contributes to AT/RT’s aggressive growth and poor survival. Targeting the mTOR pathway with the dual mTORC1/2 inhibitor TAK-228 slows tumor growth and extends survival in mice bearing orthotopic xenografts. However, responses are primarily cytostatic with limited durability. The aim of this study is to understand the impact of mTOR inhibitors on AT/RT signaling pathways and design a rational combination therapy to drive a more durable response to this promising therapy. We performed RNASeq, gene expression studies, and protein analyses to identify pathways disrupted by TAK-228. We find that TAK-228 decreases the expression of the transcription factor NRF2 and compromises AT/RT cellular defenses against oxidative stress and apoptosis. The BH3 mimetic, Obatoclax, is a potent inducer of oxidative stress and apoptosis in AT/RT. These complementary mechanisms of action drive extensive synergies between TAK-228 and Obatoclax slowing AT/RT cell growth and inducing apoptosis and cell death. Combination therapy activates the integrative stress response as determined by increased expression of phosphorylated EIF2α, ATF4, and CHOP, and disrupts the protective NOXA.MCL-1.BIM axis, forcing stressed cells to undergo apoptosis. Combination therapy is well tolerated in mice bearing orthotopic xenografts of AT/RT, slows tumor growth, and extends median overall survival. This novel combination therapy could be added to standard upfront therapies or used as a salvage therapy for relapsed disease to improve outcomes in AT/RT.
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179
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Yi X, Jain N, Iles LR, Ayres ML, Wierda WG, Gandhi V. Targeting Mcl-1 by AMG-176 During Ibrutinib and Venetoclax Therapy in Chronic Lymphocytic Leukemia. Front Oncol 2022; 12:833714. [PMID: 35273915 PMCID: PMC8901605 DOI: 10.3389/fonc.2022.833714] [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: 12/12/2021] [Accepted: 01/12/2022] [Indexed: 11/13/2022] Open
Abstract
B-cell receptor (BCR) signaling pathway and Bcl-2 family prosurvival proteins, specifically Bcl-2 and Mcl-1, are functional in the pathobiology of chronic lymphocytic leukemia (CLL). A pivotal and apical molecule in the BCR pathway is Bruton’s tyrosine kinase (BTK). Together, BTK, Bcl-2, and Mcl-1 participate in the maintenance, migration, proliferation, and survival of CLL cells. Several ongoing and published clinical trials in CLL reported high rates of remission, namely, undetectable measurable residual disease (u-MRD) status with combined BTK inhibitor ibrutinib and Bcl-2 antagonist, venetoclax. While the majority of patients achieve complete remission with undetectable-measurable residual disease, at least one third of patients do not achieve this milestone. We hypothesized that cells persistent during ibrutinib and venetoclax therapy may be sensitive to combined venetoclax and Mcl-1 inhibitor, AMG-176. To test this hypothesis, we took peripheral blood samples at baseline, after Cycle 1 and Cycle 3 of ibrutinib monotherapy, after one week and 1 cycle of ibrutinib plus venetoclax therapy. These serial samples were tested for pharmacodynamic changes and treated in vitro with AMG-176 or in combination with venetoclax. Compared to C1D1 cells, residual cells during ibrutinib and venetoclax treatment were inherently resistant to endogenous cell death. Single agent exposure induced some apoptosis but combination of 100 nM venetoclax and 100 or 300 nM of AMG-176 resulted in 40–100% cell death in baseline samples. Cells obtained after four cycles of ibrutinib and one cycle of venetoclax, when treated with such concentration of venetoclax and AMG-176, showed 10–80% cell death. BCR signaling pathway, measured as autophosphorylation of BTK was inhibited throughout therapy in all post-therapy samples. Among four anti-apoptotic proteins, Mcl-1 and Bfl-1 decreased during therapy in most samples. Proapoptotic proteins decreased during therapy. Collectively, these data provide a rationale to test Mcl-1 antagonists alone or in combination in CLL during treatment with ibrutinib and venetoclax.
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Affiliation(s)
- Xue Yi
- Department of Experimental Therapeutics, The University of Texas MD Anderson Cancer Center, Houston, TX, United States
| | - Nitin Jain
- Department of Leukemia, The University of Texas MD Anderson Cancer Center, Houston, TX, United States
| | - LaKesla R Iles
- Department of Experimental Therapeutics, The University of Texas MD Anderson Cancer Center, Houston, TX, United States
| | - Mary L Ayres
- Department of Experimental Therapeutics, The University of Texas MD Anderson Cancer Center, Houston, TX, United States
| | - William G Wierda
- Department of Leukemia, The University of Texas MD Anderson Cancer Center, Houston, TX, United States
| | - Varsha Gandhi
- Department of Experimental Therapeutics, The University of Texas MD Anderson Cancer Center, Houston, TX, United States.,Department of Leukemia, The University of Texas MD Anderson Cancer Center, Houston, TX, United States
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180
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Lopez A, Reyna DE, Gitego N, Kopp F, Zhou H, Miranda-Roman MA, Nordstrøm LU, Narayanagari SR, Chi P, Vilar E, Tsirigos A, Gavathiotis E. Co-targeting of BAX and BCL-XL proteins broadly overcomes resistance to apoptosis in cancer. Nat Commun 2022; 13:1199. [PMID: 35256598 PMCID: PMC8901805 DOI: 10.1038/s41467-022-28741-7] [Citation(s) in RCA: 77] [Impact Index Per Article: 38.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/11/2020] [Accepted: 02/09/2022] [Indexed: 01/20/2023] Open
Abstract
Deregulation of the BCL-2 family interaction network ensures cancer resistance to apoptosis and is a major challenge to current treatments. Cancer cells commonly evade apoptosis through upregulation of the BCL-2 anti-apoptotic proteins; however, more resistant cancers also downregulate or inactivate pro-apoptotic proteins to suppress apoptosis. Here, we find that apoptosis resistance in a diverse panel of solid and hematological malignancies is mediated by both overexpression of BCL-XL and an unprimed apoptotic state, limiting direct and indirect activation mechanisms of pro-apoptotic BAX. Both survival mechanisms can be overcome by the combination of an orally bioavailable BAX activator, BTSA1.2 with Navitoclax. The combination demonstrates synergistic efficacy in apoptosis-resistant cancer cells, xenografts, and patient-derived tumors while sparing healthy tissues. Additionally, functional assays and genomic markers are identified to predict sensitive tumors to the combination treatment. These findings advance the understanding of apoptosis resistance mechanisms and demonstrate a novel therapeutic strategy for cancer treatment. Deregulation of the BCL-2 family interactions ensures cancer resistance to apoptosis and is a major challenge to current treatments. Here the authors describe a novel therapeutic strategy to overcome two anti-apoptotic mechanisms for cancer therapy.
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181
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Basundra R, Kapoor S, Hollville E, Kiapour N, Beltran Lopez A, Marie Melchiorre N, Deshmukh M. Constitutive High Expression of NOXA Sensitizes Human Embryonic Stem Cells for Rapid Cell Death. Stem Cells 2022; 40:49-58. [PMID: 35511861 PMCID: PMC9199843 DOI: 10.1093/stmcls/sxab008] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/07/2020] [Accepted: 09/02/2021] [Indexed: 01/21/2023]
Abstract
Human embryonic stem (hES) cells are highly sensitive to apoptotic stimuli such as DNA damage, which allows for the rapid elimination of mutated cells during development. However, the mechanisms that maintain hES cells in the primed apoptotic state are not completely known. Key activators of apoptosis, the BH3-only proteins, are present at low levels in most cell types. In contrast, hES cells have constitutive high levels of the BH3-only protein, NOXA. We examined the importance of NOXA for enabling apoptosis in hES cells. hES cells deleted for NOXA showed remarkable protection against multiple apoptotic stimuli. NOXA was constitutively localized to the mitochondria, where it interacted with MCL1. Strikingly, inhibition of MCL1 in NOXA knockout cells was sufficient to sensitize these cells to DNA damage-induced cell death. Our study demonstrates that an essential function of constitutive high levels of NOXA in hES cells is to effectively antagonize MCL1 to permit rapid apoptosis.
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Affiliation(s)
- Richa Basundra
- Neuroscience Center, University of North Carolina, Chapel Hill, NC, USA
| | - Sahil Kapoor
- Neuroscience Center, University of North Carolina, Chapel Hill, NC, USA
| | - Emilie Hollville
- Neuroscience Center, University of North Carolina, Chapel Hill, NC, USA
| | - Nazanin Kiapour
- Neuroscience Center, University of North Carolina, Chapel Hill, NC, USA
| | - Adriana Beltran Lopez
- Human Pluripotent Stem Cell Core, Department of Pharmacology, University of North Carolina, Chapel Hill, NC, USA
| | | | - Mohanish Deshmukh
- Neuroscience Center, University of North Carolina, Chapel Hill, NC, USA
- Department of Cell Biology and Physiology, University of North Carolina, Chapel Hill, NC, USA
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182
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Saxena K, DiNardo C, Daver N, Konopleva M. SOHO State of the Art Updates and Next Questions:Harnessing Apoptosis in AML. CLINICAL LYMPHOMA, MYELOMA & LEUKEMIA 2022; 22:133-139. [PMID: 34602371 DOI: 10.1016/j.clml.2021.08.015] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/22/2021] [Revised: 08/23/2021] [Accepted: 08/30/2021] [Indexed: 06/13/2023]
Abstract
The treatment landscape for acute myeloid leukemia has expanded significantly in the past 5 years with the approval of several therapeutic small molecules. While agents such as FLT3 inhibitors and IDH inhibitors are restricted for patients with specific mutations, the selective BCL-2 inhibitor venetoclax combined with a hypomethylating agent or low-dose cytarabine was approved after demonstrating frontline efficacy across a molecularly heterogenous group of patients. Currently, venetoclax is being investigated in combination with multiple other therapies as the role of the intrinsic apoptotic pathway in acute myeloid leukemia continues to be explored.
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Affiliation(s)
- Kapil Saxena
- Division of Cancer Medicine, The University of Texas MD Anderson Cancer Center, Houston, TX
| | - Courtney DiNardo
- Department of Leukemia, The University of Texas MD Anderson Cancer Center, Houston, TX
| | - Naval Daver
- Department of Leukemia, The University of Texas MD Anderson Cancer Center, Houston, TX
| | - Marina Konopleva
- Department of Leukemia, The University of Texas MD Anderson Cancer Center, Houston, TX.
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183
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Abstract
Small cell lung cancer (SCLC) is a rapidly growing, highly metastatic, and relatively immune-cold lung cancer subtype. Historically viewed in the laboratory and clinic as a single disease, new discoveries suggest that SCLC comprises multiple molecular subsets. Expression of MYC family members and lineage-related transcription factors ASCL1, NEUROD1, and POU2F3 (and, in some studies, YAP1) define unique molecular states that have been associated with distinct responses to a variety of therapies. However, SCLC tumors exhibit a high degree of intratumoral heterogeneity, with recent studies suggesting the existence of tumor cell plasticity and phenotypic switching between subtype states. While SCLC plasticity is correlated with, and likely drives, therapeutic resistance, the mechanisms underlying this plasticity are still largely unknown. Subtype states are also associated with immune-related gene expression, which likely impacts response to immune checkpoint blockade and may reveal novel targets for alternative immunotherapeutic approaches. In this review, we synthesize recent discoveries on the mechanisms of SCLC plasticity and how these processes may impinge on antitumor immunity.
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Affiliation(s)
- Kate D Sutherland
- Australian Cancer Research Foundation (ACRF) Cancer Biology and Stem Cells Division, The Walter and Eliza Hall Institute of Medical Research, Parkville, Victoria 3052, Australia
- Department of Medical Biology, The University of Melbourne, Parkville, Victoria 3052, Australia
| | - Abbie S Ireland
- Department of Oncological Sciences, Huntsman Cancer Institute, University of Utah, Salt Lake City, Utah 84112, USA
| | - Trudy G Oliver
- Department of Oncological Sciences, Huntsman Cancer Institute, University of Utah, Salt Lake City, Utah 84112, USA
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184
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NOXA expression drives synthetic lethality to RUNX1 inhibition in pancreatic cancer. Proc Natl Acad Sci U S A 2022; 119:2105691119. [PMID: 35197278 PMCID: PMC8892327 DOI: 10.1073/pnas.2105691119] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 11/23/2021] [Indexed: 01/18/2023] Open
Abstract
Recent evidence demonstrated the existence of molecular subtypes in pancreatic ductal adenocarcinoma (PDAC), which resist all current therapies. The paucity of therapeutic options, including a complete lack of targeted therapies, underscores the urgent and unmet medical need for the identification of targets and novel treatment strategies for PDAC. Our study unravels a function of the transcription factor RUNX1 in apoptosis regulation in PDAC. We show that pharmacological RUNX1 inhibition in PDAC is feasible and leads to NOXA-dependent apoptosis. The development of targeted therapies that influence the transcriptional landscape of PDAC might have great benefits for patients who are resistant to conventional therapies. RUNX1 inhibition as a new therapeutic intervention offers an attractive strategy for future therapies. Evasion from drug-induced apoptosis is a crucial mechanism of cancer treatment resistance. The proapoptotic protein NOXA marks an aggressive pancreatic ductal adenocarcinoma (PDAC) subtype. To identify drugs that unleash the death-inducing potential of NOXA, we performed an unbiased drug screening experiment. In NOXA-deficient isogenic cellular models, we identified an inhibitor of the transcription factor heterodimer CBFβ/RUNX1. By genetic gain and loss of function experiments, we validated that the mode of action depends on RUNX1 and NOXA. Of note is that RUNX1 expression is significantly higher in PDACs compared to normal pancreas. We show that pharmacological RUNX1 inhibition significantly blocks tumor growth in vivo and in primary patient-derived PDAC organoids. Through genome-wide analysis, we detected that RUNX1-loss reshapes the epigenetic landscape, which gains H3K27ac enrichment at the NOXA promoter. Our study demonstrates a previously unknown mechanism of NOXA-dependent cell death, which can be triggered pharmaceutically. Therefore, our data show a way to target a therapy-resistant PDAC, an unmet clinical need.
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185
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Zehnle PMA, Wu Y, Pommerening H, Erlacher M. Stayin‘ alive: BCL-2 proteins in the hematopoietic system. Exp Hematol 2022; 110:1-12. [DOI: 10.1016/j.exphem.2022.03.006] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/11/2022] [Revised: 03/09/2022] [Accepted: 03/10/2022] [Indexed: 11/04/2022]
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186
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Zhang Q, Riley-Gillis B, Han L, Jia Y, Lodi A, Zhang H, Ganesan S, Pan R, Konoplev SN, Sweeney SR, Ryan JA, Jitkova Y, Dunner K, Grosskurth SE, Vijay P, Ghosh S, Lu C, Ma W, Kurtz S, Ruvolo VR, Ma H, Weng CC, Ramage CL, Baran N, Shi C, Cai T, Davis RE, Battula VL, Mi Y, Wang J, DiNardo CD, Andreeff M, Tyner JW, Schimmer A, Letai A, Padua RA, Bueso-Ramos CE, Tiziani S, Leverson J, Popovic R, Konopleva M. Activation of RAS/MAPK pathway confers MCL-1 mediated acquired resistance to BCL-2 inhibitor venetoclax in acute myeloid leukemia. Signal Transduct Target Ther 2022; 7:51. [PMID: 35185150 PMCID: PMC8858957 DOI: 10.1038/s41392-021-00870-3] [Citation(s) in RCA: 63] [Impact Index Per Article: 31.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/13/2020] [Revised: 11/01/2021] [Accepted: 12/20/2021] [Indexed: 02/07/2023] Open
Abstract
Despite high initial response rates, acute myeloid leukemia (AML) treated with the BCL-2-selective inhibitor venetoclax (VEN) alone or in combinations commonly acquires resistance. We performed gene/protein expression, metabolomic and methylation analyses of isogenic AML cell lines sensitive or resistant to VEN, and identified the activation of RAS/MAPK pathway, leading to increased stability and higher levels of MCL-1 protein, as a major acquired mechanism of VEN resistance. MCL-1 sustained survival and maintained mitochondrial respiration in VEN-RE cells, which had impaired electron transport chain (ETC) complex II activity, and MCL-1 silencing or pharmacologic inhibition restored VEN sensitivity. In support of the importance of RAS/MAPK activation, we found by single-cell DNA sequencing rapid clonal selection of RAS-mutated clones in AML patients treated with VEN-containing regimens. In summary, these findings establish RAS/MAPK/MCL-1 and mitochondrial fitness as key survival mechanisms of VEN-RE AML and provide the rationale for combinatorial strategies effectively targeting these pathways.
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Affiliation(s)
- Qi Zhang
- Department of Leukemia, The University of Texas MD Anderson Cancer Center, Houston, TX, USA
| | | | - Lina Han
- Department of Leukemia, The University of Texas MD Anderson Cancer Center, Houston, TX, USA
| | - Yannan Jia
- Department of Leukemia, The University of Texas MD Anderson Cancer Center, Houston, TX, USA
- Institute of Hematology, Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences & Peking Union Medical College, Tianjin, China
| | - Alessia Lodi
- Department of Nutritional Sciences, Department of Pediatrics, Department of Oncology, Dell Medical School, The University of Texas at Austin, Austin, TX, 78712, USA
| | - Haijiao Zhang
- Department of Cell, Developmental & Cancer Biology, Division of Hematology & Medical Oncology, Knight Cancer Institute, Oregon Health & Science University, Portland, OR, USA
| | - Saravanan Ganesan
- Université de Paris, Institut de la Recherche Saint-Louis (IRSL), Inserm Unit 1131, Paris, France
| | | | - Sergej N Konoplev
- Department of Hematopathology, The University of Texas MD Anderson Cancer Center, Houston, TX, USA
| | - Shannon R Sweeney
- Department of Nutritional Sciences, Department of Pediatrics, Department of Oncology, Dell Medical School, The University of Texas at Austin, Austin, TX, 78712, USA
| | | | - Yulia Jitkova
- Princess Margaret Cancer Center, Toronto, ON, Canada
| | - Kenneth Dunner
- High Resolution Electron Microscopy Facility, The University of Texas MD Anderson Cancer Center, Houston, TX, USA
| | | | | | | | | | - Wencai Ma
- Department of Bioinformatics & Computational Biology, The University of Texas MD Anderson Cancer Center, Houston, TX, USA
| | - Stephen Kurtz
- Department of Cell, Developmental & Cancer Biology, Division of Hematology & Medical Oncology, Knight Cancer Institute, Oregon Health & Science University, Portland, OR, USA
| | - Vivian R Ruvolo
- Department of Leukemia, The University of Texas MD Anderson Cancer Center, Houston, TX, USA
| | - Helen Ma
- Department of Leukemia, The University of Texas MD Anderson Cancer Center, Houston, TX, USA
| | - Connie C Weng
- Department of Leukemia, The University of Texas MD Anderson Cancer Center, Houston, TX, USA
| | - Cassandra L Ramage
- Department of Leukemia, The University of Texas MD Anderson Cancer Center, Houston, TX, USA
| | - Natalia Baran
- Department of Leukemia, The University of Texas MD Anderson Cancer Center, Houston, TX, USA
| | - Ce Shi
- Department of Leukemia, The University of Texas MD Anderson Cancer Center, Houston, TX, USA
- Department of Hematology, The First Hospital Affiliated Harbin Medical University, Harbin, China
| | - Tianyu Cai
- Department of Leukemia, The University of Texas MD Anderson Cancer Center, Houston, TX, USA
| | - Richard Eric Davis
- Department of Lymphoma & Myeloma Research, The University of Texas MD Anderson Cancer Center, Houston, TX, USA
| | - Venkata L Battula
- Department of Leukemia, The University of Texas MD Anderson Cancer Center, Houston, TX, USA
| | - Yingchang Mi
- Institute of Hematology, Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences & Peking Union Medical College, Tianjin, China
| | - Jing Wang
- Department of Bioinformatics & Computational Biology, The University of Texas MD Anderson Cancer Center, Houston, TX, USA
| | - Courtney D DiNardo
- Department of Leukemia, The University of Texas MD Anderson Cancer Center, Houston, TX, USA
| | - Michael Andreeff
- Department of Leukemia, The University of Texas MD Anderson Cancer Center, Houston, TX, USA
| | - Jeffery W Tyner
- Department of Cell, Developmental & Cancer Biology, Division of Hematology & Medical Oncology, Knight Cancer Institute, Oregon Health & Science University, Portland, OR, USA
| | - Aaron Schimmer
- Department of Hematopathology, The University of Texas MD Anderson Cancer Center, Houston, TX, USA
| | | | - Rose Ann Padua
- Université de Paris, Institut de la Recherche Saint-Louis (IRSL), Inserm Unit 1131, Paris, France
| | - Carlos E Bueso-Ramos
- Department of Hematopathology, The University of Texas MD Anderson Cancer Center, Houston, TX, USA
| | - Stefano Tiziani
- Department of Nutritional Sciences, Department of Pediatrics, Department of Oncology, Dell Medical School, The University of Texas at Austin, Austin, TX, 78712, USA
| | | | | | - Marina Konopleva
- Department of Leukemia, The University of Texas MD Anderson Cancer Center, Houston, TX, USA.
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187
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Pavicevic S, Reichelt S, Uluk D, Lurje I, Engelmann C, Modest DP, Pelzer U, Krenzien F, Raschzok N, Benzing C, Sauer IM, Stintzing S, Tacke F, Schöning W, Schmelzle M, Pratschke J, Lurje G. Prognostic and Predictive Molecular Markers in Cholangiocarcinoma. Cancers (Basel) 2022; 14:1026. [PMID: 35205774 PMCID: PMC8870611 DOI: 10.3390/cancers14041026] [Citation(s) in RCA: 21] [Impact Index Per Article: 10.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/18/2022] [Revised: 02/09/2022] [Accepted: 02/09/2022] [Indexed: 02/05/2023] Open
Abstract
Cholangiocarcinoma (CCA) is the second most common primary liver cancer and subsumes a heterogeneous group of malignant tumors arising from the intra- or extrahepatic biliary tract epithelium. A rising mortality from CCA has been reported worldwide during the last decade, despite significant improvement of surgical and palliative treatment. Over 50% of CCAs originate from proximal extrahepatic bile ducts and constitute the most common CCA entity in the Western world. Clinicopathological characteristics such as lymph node status and poor differentiation remain the best-studied, but imperfect prognostic factors. The identification of prognostic molecular markers as an adjunct to traditional staging systems may not only facilitate the selection of patients who would benefit the most from surgical, adjuvant or palliative treatment strategies, but may also be helpful in defining the aggressiveness of the disease and identifying patients at high-risk for tumor recurrence. The purpose of this review is to provide an overview of currently known molecular prognostic and predictive markers and their role in CCA.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sandra Pavicevic
- Department of Surgery, Campus Charité Mitte, Campus Virchow Klinikum, Charité—Universitätsmedizin Berlin, 13353 Berlin, Germany; (S.P.); (S.R.); (D.U.); (F.K.); (N.R.); (C.B.); (I.M.S.); (W.S.); (M.S.); (J.P.)
| | - Sophie Reichelt
- Department of Surgery, Campus Charité Mitte, Campus Virchow Klinikum, Charité—Universitätsmedizin Berlin, 13353 Berlin, Germany; (S.P.); (S.R.); (D.U.); (F.K.); (N.R.); (C.B.); (I.M.S.); (W.S.); (M.S.); (J.P.)
| | - Deniz Uluk
- Department of Surgery, Campus Charité Mitte, Campus Virchow Klinikum, Charité—Universitätsmedizin Berlin, 13353 Berlin, Germany; (S.P.); (S.R.); (D.U.); (F.K.); (N.R.); (C.B.); (I.M.S.); (W.S.); (M.S.); (J.P.)
| | - Isabella Lurje
- Department of Gastroenterology and Hepatology, Campus Charité Mitte, Campus Virchow Klinikum, Charité—Universitätsmedizin Berlin, 13353 Berlin, Germany; (I.L.); (C.E.); (F.T.)
| | - Cornelius Engelmann
- Department of Gastroenterology and Hepatology, Campus Charité Mitte, Campus Virchow Klinikum, Charité—Universitätsmedizin Berlin, 13353 Berlin, Germany; (I.L.); (C.E.); (F.T.)
| | - Dominik P. Modest
- Department of Hematology, Oncology and Cancer Immunology, Campus Charité Mitte, Campus Virchow Klinikum, Charité—Universitätsmedizin Berlin, 13353 Berlin, Germany; (D.P.M.); (U.P.); (S.S.)
| | - Uwe Pelzer
- Department of Hematology, Oncology and Cancer Immunology, Campus Charité Mitte, Campus Virchow Klinikum, Charité—Universitätsmedizin Berlin, 13353 Berlin, Germany; (D.P.M.); (U.P.); (S.S.)
| | - Felix Krenzien
- Department of Surgery, Campus Charité Mitte, Campus Virchow Klinikum, Charité—Universitätsmedizin Berlin, 13353 Berlin, Germany; (S.P.); (S.R.); (D.U.); (F.K.); (N.R.); (C.B.); (I.M.S.); (W.S.); (M.S.); (J.P.)
| | - Nathanael Raschzok
- Department of Surgery, Campus Charité Mitte, Campus Virchow Klinikum, Charité—Universitätsmedizin Berlin, 13353 Berlin, Germany; (S.P.); (S.R.); (D.U.); (F.K.); (N.R.); (C.B.); (I.M.S.); (W.S.); (M.S.); (J.P.)
| | - Christian Benzing
- Department of Surgery, Campus Charité Mitte, Campus Virchow Klinikum, Charité—Universitätsmedizin Berlin, 13353 Berlin, Germany; (S.P.); (S.R.); (D.U.); (F.K.); (N.R.); (C.B.); (I.M.S.); (W.S.); (M.S.); (J.P.)
| | - Igor M. Sauer
- Department of Surgery, Campus Charité Mitte, Campus Virchow Klinikum, Charité—Universitätsmedizin Berlin, 13353 Berlin, Germany; (S.P.); (S.R.); (D.U.); (F.K.); (N.R.); (C.B.); (I.M.S.); (W.S.); (M.S.); (J.P.)
| | - Sebastian Stintzing
- Department of Hematology, Oncology and Cancer Immunology, Campus Charité Mitte, Campus Virchow Klinikum, Charité—Universitätsmedizin Berlin, 13353 Berlin, Germany; (D.P.M.); (U.P.); (S.S.)
| | - Frank Tacke
- Department of Gastroenterology and Hepatology, Campus Charité Mitte, Campus Virchow Klinikum, Charité—Universitätsmedizin Berlin, 13353 Berlin, Germany; (I.L.); (C.E.); (F.T.)
| | - Wenzel Schöning
- Department of Surgery, Campus Charité Mitte, Campus Virchow Klinikum, Charité—Universitätsmedizin Berlin, 13353 Berlin, Germany; (S.P.); (S.R.); (D.U.); (F.K.); (N.R.); (C.B.); (I.M.S.); (W.S.); (M.S.); (J.P.)
| | - Moritz Schmelzle
- Department of Surgery, Campus Charité Mitte, Campus Virchow Klinikum, Charité—Universitätsmedizin Berlin, 13353 Berlin, Germany; (S.P.); (S.R.); (D.U.); (F.K.); (N.R.); (C.B.); (I.M.S.); (W.S.); (M.S.); (J.P.)
| | - Johann Pratschke
- Department of Surgery, Campus Charité Mitte, Campus Virchow Klinikum, Charité—Universitätsmedizin Berlin, 13353 Berlin, Germany; (S.P.); (S.R.); (D.U.); (F.K.); (N.R.); (C.B.); (I.M.S.); (W.S.); (M.S.); (J.P.)
| | - Georg Lurje
- Department of Surgery, Campus Charité Mitte, Campus Virchow Klinikum, Charité—Universitätsmedizin Berlin, 13353 Berlin, Germany; (S.P.); (S.R.); (D.U.); (F.K.); (N.R.); (C.B.); (I.M.S.); (W.S.); (M.S.); (J.P.)
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188
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Ramesh P, Di Franco S, Atencia Taboada L, Zhang L, Nicotra A, Stassi G, Medema JP. BCL-XL inhibition induces an FGFR4-mediated rescue response in colorectal cancer. Cell Rep 2022; 38:110374. [PMID: 35172148 DOI: 10.1016/j.celrep.2022.110374] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/23/2021] [Revised: 09/27/2021] [Accepted: 01/21/2022] [Indexed: 01/15/2023] Open
Abstract
The heterogeneous therapy response observed in colorectal cancer is in part due to cancer stem cells (CSCs) that resist chemotherapeutic insults. The anti-apoptotic protein BCL-XL plays a critical role in protecting CSCs from cell death, where its inhibition with high doses of BH3 mimetics can induce apoptosis. Here, we screen a compound library for synergy with low-dose BCL-XL inhibitor A-1155463 to identify pathways that regulate sensitivity to BCL-XL inhibition and reveal that fibroblast growth factor receptor (FGFR)4 inhibition effectively sensitizes to A-1155463 both in vitro and in vivo. Mechanistically, we identify a rescue response that is activated upon BCL-XL inhibition and leads to rapid FGF2 secretion and subsequent FGFR4-mediated post-translational stabilization of MCL-1. FGFR4 inhibition prevents MCL-1 upregulation and thereby sensitizes CSCs to BCL-XL inhibition. Altogether, our findings suggest a cell transferable induction of a FGF2/FGFR4 rescue response in CRC that is induced upon BCL-XL inhibition and leads to MCL-1 upregulation.
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Affiliation(s)
- Prashanthi Ramesh
- Laboratory for Experimental Oncology and Radiobiology, Center for Experimental and Molecular Medicine, AmsterdamUMC, University of Amsterdam, Cancer Center Amsterdam, Meibergdreef 9, 1105 AZ Amsterdam, the Netherlands; Oncode Institute, Meibergdreef 9, 1105 AZ Amsterdam, the Netherlands
| | - Simone Di Franco
- Department of Surgical Oncological and Stomatological Sciences, University of Palermo, Palermo, Italy
| | - Lidia Atencia Taboada
- Laboratory for Experimental Oncology and Radiobiology, Center for Experimental and Molecular Medicine, AmsterdamUMC, University of Amsterdam, Cancer Center Amsterdam, Meibergdreef 9, 1105 AZ Amsterdam, the Netherlands; Oncode Institute, Meibergdreef 9, 1105 AZ Amsterdam, the Netherlands
| | - Le Zhang
- Laboratory for Experimental Oncology and Radiobiology, Center for Experimental and Molecular Medicine, AmsterdamUMC, University of Amsterdam, Cancer Center Amsterdam, Meibergdreef 9, 1105 AZ Amsterdam, the Netherlands; Oncode Institute, Meibergdreef 9, 1105 AZ Amsterdam, the Netherlands
| | - Annalisa Nicotra
- Department of Surgical Oncological and Stomatological Sciences, University of Palermo, Palermo, Italy
| | - Giorgio Stassi
- Department of Surgical Oncological and Stomatological Sciences, University of Palermo, Palermo, Italy
| | - Jan Paul Medema
- Laboratory for Experimental Oncology and Radiobiology, Center for Experimental and Molecular Medicine, AmsterdamUMC, University of Amsterdam, Cancer Center Amsterdam, Meibergdreef 9, 1105 AZ Amsterdam, the Netherlands; Oncode Institute, Meibergdreef 9, 1105 AZ Amsterdam, the Netherlands.
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189
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Synergistic apoptotic effect of Mcl-1 inhibition and doxorubicin on B-cell precursor acute lymphoblastic leukemia cells. Mol Biol Rep 2022; 49:2025-2036. [PMID: 35138523 DOI: 10.1007/s11033-021-07021-5] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/06/2021] [Accepted: 11/25/2021] [Indexed: 10/19/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Myeloid cell leukemia-1 (MCL-1) is a component of the Bcl-2 anti-apoptotic family that plays a key role in cell proliferation and differentiation. Despite tremendous improvements toward identification of the role of MCL-1 in leukemia progression, the functional significance and molecular mechanism behind the effect of MCL-1 overexpression on the proliferation of B-cell precursor acute lymphoblastic leukemia (BCP-ALL) has not been clarified. In addition, less well appreciated is the effect of MCL-1 inhibition on the potentiation of doxorubicin-induced apoptosis in BCP-ALL cell lines. In the present study, we aimed to shed light on the anti-cancer properties of S63845, a potent Mcl-1 inhibitor, in BCP-ALL cell lines either alone or in combination with a chemotherapeutic drug. METHODS AND RESULTS: Mononuclear cells from patients with Pre-B ALL and BCP-ALL cell lines were treated with S63845 in presence or absence of doxorubicin, induction of apoptosis was evaluated using Annexin-V/PI staining kit. mRNA and protein expression levels were assessed by qRT-PCR and western blot analysis, respectively. Our results declared that inhibition of Mcl-1 impairs cell growth and induces apoptosis in pre-B ALL cells through activation of caspase-3 and up-regulation of a repertoire of pro-apoptotic Bcl-2 family. Additionally, S63845 acts synergically with doxorubicin to induce apoptosis in BCP-ALL cell lines. CONCLUSIONS Our data declared that MCL-1 inhibition alone or in combination with a chemotherapeutic agent is considered an appealing strategy for the induction of apoptosis in BCP-ALL cells.
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190
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Choi HS, Baek KH. Pro-apoptotic and anti-apoptotic regulation mediated by deubiquitinating enzymes. Cell Mol Life Sci 2022; 79:117. [PMID: 35118522 PMCID: PMC11071826 DOI: 10.1007/s00018-022-04132-5] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/02/2021] [Revised: 12/20/2021] [Accepted: 01/05/2022] [Indexed: 12/16/2022]
Abstract
Although damaged cells can be repaired, cells that are considered unlikely to be repaired are eliminated through apoptosis, a type of predicted cell death found in multicellular organisms. Apoptosis is a structured cell death involving alterations to the cell morphology and internal biochemical changes. This process involves the expansion and cracking of cells, changes in cell membranes, nuclear fragmentation, chromatin condensation, and chromosome cleavage, culminating in the damaged cells being eaten and processed by other cells. The ubiquitin-proteasome system (UPS) is a major cellular pathway that regulates the protein levels through proteasomal degradation. This review proposes that apoptotic proteins are regulated through the UPS and describes a unique direction for cancer treatment by controlling proteasomal degradation of apoptotic proteins, and small molecules targeted to enzymes associated with UPS.
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Affiliation(s)
- Hae-Seul Choi
- Department of Biomedical Science, CHA University, 335 Pangyo-Ro, Bundang-Gu, Seongnam-Si, Gyeonggi-Do, 13488, Republic of Korea
| | - Kwang-Hyun Baek
- Department of Biomedical Science, CHA University, 335 Pangyo-Ro, Bundang-Gu, Seongnam-Si, Gyeonggi-Do, 13488, Republic of Korea.
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191
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Gao H, Lin Y, Huang C, Li X, Diamond MS, Liu C, Zhang R, Zhang P. A genome-wide CRISPR screen identifies HuR as a regulator of apoptosis induced by dsRNA and virus. J Cell Sci 2022; 135:274702. [PMID: 35112703 DOI: 10.1242/jcs.258855] [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: 04/29/2021] [Accepted: 01/24/2022] [Indexed: 11/20/2022] Open
Abstract
We performed an unbiased whole-genome CRISPR/Cas9 screen in A549 cells to identify potential regulators involved in cell death triggered by dsRNA. Of several top candidate genes, we identified the RNA binding protein ELAV like protein 1 (ELAVL1) that encodes Hu antigen R (HuR). Depletion of HuR led to less cell death induced by dsRNA. HuR is mainly involved in the apoptosis, and all of its RNA recognition motifs are essential for its proapoptotic function. We further showed that the HuR depletion had no influence on the mRNA level of an anti-apoptotic gene, BCL2, instead downregulated its translation in a cap-independent way. Polysome fractionation studies showed that HuR retarded the BCL2 mRNA in the non-translating pool of polysomes. Moreover, protection from dsRNA-induced apoptosis by HuR depletion required the presence of BCL2, indicating that the proapoptotic function of HuR is executed by suppressing BCL2. Consistently, HuR regulated apoptosis induced by infection of encephalomyocarditis or Semliki Forest virus. Collectively, our work identified a suite of proteins that regulate dsRNA-induced cell death, and elucidated the mechanism by which HuR acts as a pro-apoptotic factor.
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Affiliation(s)
- Huixin Gao
- Key Laboratory of Tropical Diseases Control (Sun Yat-sen University), Ministry of Education, Guangzhou 510080, China.,Department of Immunology, Zhongshan School of Medicine, Sun Yat-sen University, Guangzhou 510080, China
| | - Yuxia Lin
- Key Laboratory of Tropical Diseases Control (Sun Yat-sen University), Ministry of Education, Guangzhou 510080, China.,Department of Immunology, Zhongshan School of Medicine, Sun Yat-sen University, Guangzhou 510080, China
| | - Changbai Huang
- Key Laboratory of Tropical Diseases Control (Sun Yat-sen University), Ministry of Education, Guangzhou 510080, China.,Department of Immunology, Zhongshan School of Medicine, Sun Yat-sen University, Guangzhou 510080, China
| | - Xiaobo Li
- Key Laboratory of Tropical Diseases Control (Sun Yat-sen University), Ministry of Education, Guangzhou 510080, China.,Department of Immunology, Zhongshan School of Medicine, Sun Yat-sen University, Guangzhou 510080, China
| | - Michael S Diamond
- Departments of Medicine, Molecular Microbiology, Pathology & Immunology, Washington University School of Medicine, Saint Louis, MO, USA
| | - Chao Liu
- Key Laboratory of Tropical Diseases Control (Sun Yat-sen University), Ministry of Education, Guangzhou 510080, China.,Department of Microbiology, Zhongshan School of Medicine, Sun Yat-sen University, Guangzhou 510080, China
| | - Rong Zhang
- Key Laboratory of Medical Molecular Virology (MOE/NHC/CAMS), School of Basic Medical Sciences, Shanghai Medical College, Fudan University, Shanghai, 200032, China
| | - Ping Zhang
- Key Laboratory of Tropical Diseases Control (Sun Yat-sen University), Ministry of Education, Guangzhou 510080, China.,Department of Immunology, Zhongshan School of Medicine, Sun Yat-sen University, Guangzhou 510080, China
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192
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Faux MC, Weinstock J, Gogos S, Prato E, Azimpour AI, O'Keefe R, Cathcart-King Y, Garnham AL, Ernst M, Preaudet A, Christie M, Putoczki TL, Buchert M, Burgess AW. Combined Treatment with a WNT Inhibitor and the NSAID Sulindac Reduces Colon Adenoma Burden in Mice with Truncated APC. CANCER RESEARCH COMMUNICATIONS 2022; 2:66-77. [PMID: 36860494 PMCID: PMC9973414 DOI: 10.1158/2767-9764.crc-21-0105] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/27/2021] [Revised: 12/20/2021] [Accepted: 01/18/2022] [Indexed: 11/16/2022]
Abstract
Adenomatous polyposis coli (APC) truncations occur in many colorectal cancers and are often associated with immune infiltration. The aim of this study was to determine whether a combination of Wnt inhibition with anti-inflammatory (sulindac) and/or proapototic (ABT263) drugs can reduce colon adenomas. Apc min/+ and doublecortin-like kinase 1 (Dclk1)Cre/+ ;Apc fl/fl mice were exposed to dextran sulphate sodium (DSS) in their drinking water to promote the formation of colon adenomas. Mice were then treated with either a Wnt-signaling antagonist pyrvinium pamoate (PP), an anti-inflammatory agent sulindac or proapoptotic compound ABT263 or a combination of PP+ABT263, or PP+sulindac. Colon adenoma frequency, size, and T-cell abundance were measured. DSS treatment resulted in significant increases in colon adenoma number (P < 0.001, n > 5) and burden in Apc min/+ (P < 0.01, n > 5) and Dclk1 Cre/+ ;Apc fl/fl (P < 0.02, n > 5) mice. There was no effect on adenomas following treatment with PP in combination with ABT263. Adenoma number and burden were reduced with PP+sulindac treatment in Dclk1 Cre/+;Apc fl/fl mice (P < 0.01, n > 17) and in Apc min/+ mice (P < 0.001, n > 7) treated with sulindac or PP+sulindac with no detectable toxicity. PP treatment of Apc min/+ mice increased the frequency of CD3+ cells in the adenomas. The combination of Wnt pathway inhibition with sulindac was more effective in Dclk1 Cre/+;Apc fl/fl mice and provides an opportunity for killing Apc-mutant colon adenoma cells, indicating a strategy for both colorectal cancer prevention and potential new treatments for patients with advanced colorectal cancer. Outcomes from the results of this study may be translatable to the clinic for management of FAP and other patients with a high risk of developing colorectal cancer. Significance Colorectal cancer is one of the most common cancers worldwide with limited therapeutic options. APC and other Wnt signaling mutations occur in the majority of colorectal cancers but there are currently no Wnt inhibitors in the clinic. The combination of Wnt pathway inhibition with sulindac provides an opportunity for killing Apc-mutant colon adenoma cells and suggests a strategy for colorectal cancer prevention and new treatments for patients with advanced colorectal cancer.
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Affiliation(s)
- Maree C. Faux
- Personalised Oncology Division, The Walter and Eliza Hall Institute of Medical Research, Parkville, Victoria, Australia.,Department of Medical Biology, University of Melbourne, Parkville, Victoria, Australia.,Department of Surgery, RMH, University of Melbourne, Parkville, Victoria, Australia.,Corresponding Authors: Maree C. Faux, Cell Biology, Murdoch Children's Research Institute, 50 Flemington Road, Parkville, Victoria 3052, Australia. Phone: 613-8341-6200; Fax: 613-8341-6212; E-mail: ; and Antony Burgess, The Walter and Eliza Hall Institute of Medical Research, 1G Royal Parade, Parkville, Victoria 3052, Australia. Phone: 613-9345-2555; Fax: 613-9347-0852; E-mail:
| | - Janet Weinstock
- Personalised Oncology Division, The Walter and Eliza Hall Institute of Medical Research, Parkville, Victoria, Australia.,Department of Medical Biology, University of Melbourne, Parkville, Victoria, Australia.,Deceased
| | - Sophia Gogos
- Personalised Oncology Division, The Walter and Eliza Hall Institute of Medical Research, Parkville, Victoria, Australia.,Department of Medical Biology, University of Melbourne, Parkville, Victoria, Australia
| | - Emma Prato
- Department of Medical Biology, University of Melbourne, Parkville, Victoria, Australia
| | - Alexander I. Azimpour
- Olivia Newton-John Cancer Research Institute, Heidelberg, Victoria, Australia.,School of Cancer Medicine, La Trobe University, Bundoora, Victoria, Australia
| | - Ryan O'Keefe
- Olivia Newton-John Cancer Research Institute, Heidelberg, Victoria, Australia.,School of Cancer Medicine, La Trobe University, Bundoora, Victoria, Australia
| | - Yasmin Cathcart-King
- Olivia Newton-John Cancer Research Institute, Heidelberg, Victoria, Australia.,School of Cancer Medicine, La Trobe University, Bundoora, Victoria, Australia
| | - Alexandra L. Garnham
- Personalised Oncology Division, The Walter and Eliza Hall Institute of Medical Research, Parkville, Victoria, Australia.,Department of Medical Biology, University of Melbourne, Parkville, Victoria, Australia
| | - Matthias Ernst
- Olivia Newton-John Cancer Research Institute, Heidelberg, Victoria, Australia.,School of Cancer Medicine, La Trobe University, Bundoora, Victoria, Australia
| | - Adele Preaudet
- Personalised Oncology Division, The Walter and Eliza Hall Institute of Medical Research, Parkville, Victoria, Australia.,Department of Medical Biology, University of Melbourne, Parkville, Victoria, Australia
| | - Michael Christie
- Department of Pathology, Royal Melbourne Hospital, Parkville, Victoria, Australia
| | - Tracy L. Putoczki
- Personalised Oncology Division, The Walter and Eliza Hall Institute of Medical Research, Parkville, Victoria, Australia.,Department of Medical Biology, University of Melbourne, Parkville, Victoria, Australia.,Department of Surgery, RMH, University of Melbourne, Parkville, Victoria, Australia
| | - Michael Buchert
- Olivia Newton-John Cancer Research Institute, Heidelberg, Victoria, Australia.,School of Cancer Medicine, La Trobe University, Bundoora, Victoria, Australia
| | - Antony W. Burgess
- Personalised Oncology Division, The Walter and Eliza Hall Institute of Medical Research, Parkville, Victoria, Australia.,Department of Medical Biology, University of Melbourne, Parkville, Victoria, Australia.,Department of Surgery, RMH, University of Melbourne, Parkville, Victoria, Australia.,Corresponding Authors: Maree C. Faux, Cell Biology, Murdoch Children's Research Institute, 50 Flemington Road, Parkville, Victoria 3052, Australia. Phone: 613-8341-6200; Fax: 613-8341-6212; E-mail: ; and Antony Burgess, The Walter and Eliza Hall Institute of Medical Research, 1G Royal Parade, Parkville, Victoria 3052, Australia. Phone: 613-9345-2555; Fax: 613-9347-0852; E-mail:
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193
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Xi J, Yao L, Zhang R, Chen K, Li M, Zhang D, Cui M, Nie H, Wang P, Li X, Jiang R. 2-oxy-3-phenylacrylic acid derivatives as potent Mcl-1 inhibitors for treatment of cancer. RESULTS IN CHEMISTRY 2022. [DOI: 10.1016/j.rechem.2022.100308] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/15/2022] Open
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194
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Heckmeier PJ, Ruf J, Buhrke D, Janković BG, Hamm P. Signal propagation within the MCL-1/BIM protein complex. J Mol Biol 2022; 434:167499. [DOI: 10.1016/j.jmb.2022.167499] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/21/2021] [Revised: 01/24/2022] [Accepted: 02/07/2022] [Indexed: 11/26/2022]
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195
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Winkler M, Friedrich J, Boedicker C, Dolgikh N. Co-targeting MCL-1 and ERK1/2 kinase induces mitochondrial apoptosis in rhabdomyosarcoma cells. Transl Oncol 2022; 16:101313. [PMID: 34906889 PMCID: PMC8681038 DOI: 10.1016/j.tranon.2021.101313] [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: 12/03/2021] [Accepted: 12/06/2021] [Indexed: 01/17/2023] Open
Abstract
The RAS/MEK/ERK genetic axis is commonly altered in rhabdomyosarcoma (RMS), indicating high activity of downstream effector ERK1/2 kinase. Previously, we have demonstrated that inhibition of the RAS/MEK/ERK signaling pathway in RMS is insufficient to induce cell death due to residual pro-survival MCL-1 activity. Here, we show that the combination of ERK1/2 inhibitor Ulixertinib and MCL-1 inhibitor S63845 is highly synergistic and induces apoptotic cell death in RMS in vitro and in vivo. Importantly, Ulixertinib/S63845 co-treatment suppresses long-term survival of RMS cells, induces rapid caspase activation and caspase-dependent apoptosis. Mechanistically, Ulixertinib-mediated upregulation of BIM and BMF in combination with MCL-1 inhibition by S63845 shifts the balance of BCL-2 proteins towards a pro-apoptotic state resulting in apoptosis induction. A genetic silencing approach reveals that BIM, BMF, BAK and BAX are all required for Ulixertinib/S63845-induced apoptosis. Overexpression of BCL-2 rescues cell death triggered by Ulixertinib/S63845 co-treatment, confirming that combined inhibition of ERK1/2 and MCL-1 effectively induces cell death of RMS cells via the intrinsic mitochondrial apoptotic pathway. Thus, this study is the first to demonstrate the cytotoxic potency of co-inhibition of ERK1/2 and MCL-1 for RMS treatment.
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Affiliation(s)
- Marius Winkler
- Institute for Experimental Cancer Research in Pediatrics, Goethe-University Frankfurt, Komturstr. 3a, 60528 Frankfurt, Germany
| | - Juliane Friedrich
- Institute for Experimental Cancer Research in Pediatrics, Goethe-University Frankfurt, Komturstr. 3a, 60528 Frankfurt, Germany
| | - Cathinka Boedicker
- Institute for Experimental Cancer Research in Pediatrics, Goethe-University Frankfurt, Komturstr. 3a, 60528 Frankfurt, Germany
| | - Nadezda Dolgikh
- Institute for Experimental Cancer Research in Pediatrics, Goethe-University Frankfurt, Komturstr. 3a, 60528 Frankfurt, Germany.
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196
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Design, synthesis and biological evaluation of hydantoin derivatives as Mcl-1 selective inhibitors. Bioorg Chem 2022; 121:105643. [PMID: 35150958 DOI: 10.1016/j.bioorg.2022.105643] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/17/2021] [Revised: 01/16/2022] [Accepted: 01/22/2022] [Indexed: 12/29/2022]
Abstract
As a member of Bcl-2 protein family, myeloid cell leukemia-1 (Mcl-1) plays a critical role in cell apoptosis and has become a promising anti-cancer drug target. Herein, we designed and synthesized a series of hydantoin derivatives as novel Mcl-1 inhibitors based on our previously developed lead compound. Among them, compound M23 and M24 exhibited good binding affinities against Mcl-1 with Ki values of 0.49 μM and 0.33 μM respectively. Especially, compound M23 exhibited good selectivity over Bcl-xL, whereas compound M24 possessed good selectivity over both Bcl-2 and Bcl-xL. Furthermore, we also investigated the effects of these new Mcl-1 inhibitors on cell proliferation, apoptosis and mitochondrial membrane potential, as well as the stability in plasma.
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197
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Seyfried F, Stirnweiß FU, Niedermayer A, Enzenmüller S, Hörl RL, Münch V, Köhrer S, Debatin KM, Meyer LH. Synergistic activity of combined inhibition of anti-apoptotic molecules in B-cell precursor ALL. Leukemia 2022; 36:901-912. [PMID: 35031695 PMCID: PMC8979822 DOI: 10.1038/s41375-021-01502-z] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/15/2021] [Revised: 12/07/2021] [Accepted: 12/22/2021] [Indexed: 01/01/2023]
Abstract
Targeting BCL-2, a key regulator of survival in B-cell malignancies including precursor B-cell acute lymphoblastic leukemia, has become a promising treatment strategy. However, given the redundancy of anti-apoptotic BCL-2 family proteins (BCL-2, BCL-XL, MCL-1), single targeting may not be sufficient. When analyzing the effects of BH3-mimetics selectively targeting BCL-XL and MCL-1 alone or in combination with the BCL-2 inhibitor venetoclax, heterogeneous sensitivity to either of these inhibitors was found in ALL cell lines and in patient-derived xenografts. Interestingly, some venetoclax-resistant leukemias were sensitive to the MCL-1-selective antagonist S63845 and/or BCL-XL-selective A-1331852 suggesting functional mutual substitution. Consequently, co-inhibition of BCL-2 and MCL-1 or BCL-XL resulted in synergistic apoptosis induction. Functional analysis by BH3-profiling and analysis of protein complexes revealed that venetoclax-treated ALL cells are dependent on MCL-1 and BCL-XL, indicating that MCL-1 or BCL-XL provide an Achilles heel in BCL-2-inhibited cells. The effect of combining BCL-2 and MCL-1 inhibition by venetoclax and S63845 was evaluated in vivo and strongly enhanced anti-leukemia activity was found in a pre-clinical patient-derived xenograft model. Our study offers in-depth molecular analysis of mutual substitution of BCL-2 family proteins in acute lymphoblastic leukemia and provides targets for combination treatment in vivo and in ongoing clinical studies.
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Affiliation(s)
- Felix Seyfried
- Department of Pediatrics and Adolescent Medicine, Ulm University Medical Center, Ulm, Germany
| | - Felix Uli Stirnweiß
- Department of Pediatrics and Adolescent Medicine, Ulm University Medical Center, Ulm, Germany.,International Graduate School in Molecular Medicine, Ulm University, Ulm, Germany
| | - Alexandra Niedermayer
- Department of Pediatrics and Adolescent Medicine, Ulm University Medical Center, Ulm, Germany.,International Graduate School in Molecular Medicine, Ulm University, Ulm, Germany
| | - Stefanie Enzenmüller
- Department of Pediatrics and Adolescent Medicine, Ulm University Medical Center, Ulm, Germany
| | - Rebecca Louise Hörl
- Department of Pediatrics and Adolescent Medicine, Ulm University Medical Center, Ulm, Germany
| | - Vera Münch
- Department of Pediatrics and Adolescent Medicine, Ulm University Medical Center, Ulm, Germany
| | - Stefan Köhrer
- Department of Pediatrics and Adolescent Medicine, Ulm University Medical Center, Ulm, Germany.,St. Anna Children's Hospital, Department of Pediatric Hematology and Oncology, Vienna, Austria
| | - Klaus-Michael Debatin
- Department of Pediatrics and Adolescent Medicine, Ulm University Medical Center, Ulm, Germany
| | - Lüder Hinrich Meyer
- Department of Pediatrics and Adolescent Medicine, Ulm University Medical Center, Ulm, Germany.
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198
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Särchen V, Shanmugalingam S, Kehr S, Reindl LM, Greze V, Wiedemann S, Boedicker C, Jacob M, Bankov K, Becker N, Wehner S, Theilen TM, Gretser S, Gradhand E, Kummerow C, Ullrich E, Vogler M. Pediatric multicellular tumor spheroid models illustrate a therapeutic potential by combining BH3 mimetics with Natural Killer (NK) cell-based immunotherapy. Cell Death Dis 2022; 8:11. [PMID: 35013156 PMCID: PMC8748928 DOI: 10.1038/s41420-021-00812-6] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/29/2021] [Revised: 12/03/2021] [Accepted: 12/16/2021] [Indexed: 01/14/2023]
Abstract
The induction of apoptosis is a direct way to eliminate tumor cells and improve cancer therapy. Apoptosis is tightly controlled by the balance of pro- and antiapoptotic Bcl-2 proteins. BH3 mimetics neutralize the antiapoptotic function of Bcl-2 proteins and are highly promising compounds inducing apoptosis in several cancer entities including pediatric malignancies. However, the clinical application of BH3 mimetics in solid tumors is impeded by the frequent resistance to single BH3 mimetics and the anticipated toxicity of high concentrations or combination treatments. One potential avenue to increase the potency of BH3 mimetics is the development of immune cell-based therapies to counteract the intrinsic apoptosis resistance of tumor cells and sensitize them to immune attack. Here, we describe spheroid cultures of pediatric cancer cells that can serve as models for drug testing. In these 3D models, we were able to demonstrate that activated allogeneic Natural Killer (NK) cells migrated into tumor spheroids and displayed cytotoxicity against a wide range of pediatric cancer spheroids, highlighting their potential as anti-tumor effector cells. Next, we investigated whether treatment of tumor spheroids with subtoxic concentrations of BH3 mimetics can increase the cytotoxicity of NK cells. Notably, the cytotoxic effects of NK cells were enhanced by the addition of BH3 mimetics. Treatment with either the Bcl-XL inhibitor A1331852 or the Mcl-1 inhibitor S63845 increased the cytotoxicity of NK cells and reduced spheroid size, while the Bcl-2 inhibitor ABT-199 had no effect on NK cell-mediated killing. Taken together, this is the first study to describe the combination of BH3 mimetics targeting Bcl-XL or Mcl-1 with NK cell-based immunotherapy, highlighting the potential of BH3 mimetics in immunotherapy.
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Affiliation(s)
- Vinzenz Särchen
- Institute for Experimental Cancer Research in Pediatrics, Goethe-University Frankfurt, Frankfurt am Main, Germany
| | - Senthan Shanmugalingam
- Institute for Experimental Cancer Research in Pediatrics, Goethe-University Frankfurt, Frankfurt am Main, Germany
| | - Sarah Kehr
- Institute for Experimental Cancer Research in Pediatrics, Goethe-University Frankfurt, Frankfurt am Main, Germany
| | - Lisa Marie Reindl
- Children's Hospital, Goethe-University Frankfurt, Frankfurt am Main, Germany.,Experimental Immunology, Goethe-University Frankfurt, Frankfurt am Main, Germany
| | - Victoria Greze
- Children's Hospital, Goethe-University Frankfurt, Frankfurt am Main, Germany.,Experimental Immunology, Goethe-University Frankfurt, Frankfurt am Main, Germany
| | - Sara Wiedemann
- Institute for Experimental Cancer Research in Pediatrics, Goethe-University Frankfurt, Frankfurt am Main, Germany
| | - Cathinka Boedicker
- Institute for Experimental Cancer Research in Pediatrics, Goethe-University Frankfurt, Frankfurt am Main, Germany
| | - Maureen Jacob
- Institute for Experimental Cancer Research in Pediatrics, Goethe-University Frankfurt, Frankfurt am Main, Germany
| | - Katrin Bankov
- Dr. Senckenberg Institute of Pathology, Goethe-University Frankfurt, Frankfurt am Main, Germany
| | - Nina Becker
- Dr. Senckenberg Institute of Pathology, Goethe-University Frankfurt, Frankfurt am Main, Germany.,University Cancer Center Frankfurt (UCT), University Hospital Frankfurt, Goethe-University Frankfurt, Frankfurt am Main, Germany
| | - Sibylle Wehner
- Children's Hospital, Goethe-University Frankfurt, Frankfurt am Main, Germany
| | - Till M Theilen
- Department of Pediatric Surgery and Pediatric Urology, University Hospital Frankfurt, Goethe-University Frankfurt, Frankfurt am Main, Germany
| | - Steffen Gretser
- Department of Pediatric and Perinatal Pathology, Dr. Senckenberg Institute of Pathology, Goethe-University Frankfurt, Frankfurt am Main, Germany
| | - Elise Gradhand
- Department of Pediatric and Perinatal Pathology, Dr. Senckenberg Institute of Pathology, Goethe-University Frankfurt, Frankfurt am Main, Germany
| | - Carsten Kummerow
- Department of Biophysics, Center for Integrative Physiology and Molecular Medicine, School of Medicine, Saarland University, Homburg, Saarland, Germany
| | - Evelyn Ullrich
- Children's Hospital, Goethe-University Frankfurt, Frankfurt am Main, Germany.,Experimental Immunology, Goethe-University Frankfurt, Frankfurt am Main, Germany.,University Cancer Center Frankfurt (UCT), University Hospital Frankfurt, Goethe-University Frankfurt, Frankfurt am Main, Germany.,Frankfurt Cancer Institute, Goethe-University Frankfurt, Frankfurt am Main, Germany.,German Cancer Consortium (DKTK) partner site Frankfurt/Mainz, Frankfurt am Main, Germany
| | - Meike Vogler
- Institute for Experimental Cancer Research in Pediatrics, Goethe-University Frankfurt, Frankfurt am Main, Germany. .,German Cancer Consortium (DKTK) partner site Frankfurt/Mainz, Frankfurt am Main, Germany.
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199
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Kawiak A, Kostecka A. Regulation of Bcl-2 Family Proteins in Estrogen Receptor-Positive Breast Cancer and Their Implications in Endocrine Therapy. Cancers (Basel) 2022; 14:279. [PMID: 35053443 PMCID: PMC8773933 DOI: 10.3390/cancers14020279] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/29/2021] [Revised: 12/20/2021] [Accepted: 12/29/2021] [Indexed: 12/18/2022] Open
Abstract
Estrogen receptor (ER)-positive breast cancer accounts for around two-thirds of breast cancer occurrences, with endocrine therapy serving as first-line therapy in most cases. Targeting estrogen signaling pathways, which play a central role in regulating ER+ breast cell proliferation and survival, has proven to improve patient outcomes. However, despite the undeniable advantages of endocrine therapy, a subset of breast cancer patients develop acquired or intrinsic resistance to ER-targeting agents, limiting their efficacy. The activation of downstream ER signaling pathways upregulates pro-survival mechanisms that have been shown to influence the response of cells to endocrine therapy. The Bcl-2 family proteins play a central role in cell death regulation and have been shown to contribute to endocrine therapy resistance, supporting the survival of breast cancer cells and enhancing cell death evasion. Due to the overexpression of anti-apoptotic Bcl-2 proteins in ER-positive breast cancer, the role of these proteins as potential targets in hormone-responsive breast cancer is growing in interest. In particular, recent advances in the development of BH3 mimetics have enabled their evaluation in preclinical studies with ER+ breast cancer models, and BH3 mimetics have entered early ER+ breast cancer clinical trials. This review summarizes the molecular mechanisms underlying the regulation of Bcl-2 family proteins in ER+ breast cancer. Furthermore, an overview of recent advances in research regarding the efficacy of BH3 mimetics in ER+ breast cancer has been provided.
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Affiliation(s)
- Anna Kawiak
- Intercollegiate Faculty of Biotechnology, University of Gdansk, Abrahama 58, 80-307 Gdansk, Poland
| | - Anna Kostecka
- Faculty of Pharmacy, Medical University of Gdansk, Hallera 107, 80-416 Gdansk, Poland;
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200
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Wang AM, Qiu R, Zhang D, Zhao XY. Therapeutic effects of an innovative BS-HH-002 drug on pancreatic cancer cells via induction of complete MCL-1 degradation. Transl Oncol 2022; 15:101288. [PMID: 34847421 PMCID: PMC8633684 DOI: 10.1016/j.tranon.2021.101288] [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: 06/30/2021] [Revised: 11/11/2021] [Accepted: 11/16/2021] [Indexed: 12/24/2022] Open
Abstract
BS-HH-002 is a newly developed drug with excellent antitumor activity, which resulted from the modification and optimization of the side structure of the homoharringtonine (HHT). It is particularly efficient in treatment for acute myeloid leukemia and myelodysplastic syndromes. Here we tested whether BS-HH-002 also had anti-cancer effects on solid tumors, especially pancreatic cancer. The results showed that BS-HH-002 treatment resulted in the complete degradation of the anti-apoptosis protein MCL-1, thereby inhibiting proliferation and inducing apoptosis of pancreatic cancer cells. In contrast, BCL-2 and BCL-XL protein levels were still detected in apoptotic cells. Further, we compared HHT and BS-HH-002 in terms of PK and heart toxicity in animals. Compared to HHT, BS-HH-002 quickly reached high blood concentration after intravenous injection or oral administration, without causing obvious cardiac toxicity. These results indicate that BS-HH-002 is a promising new anti-cancer drug to treat pancreatic and other solid tumors.
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Affiliation(s)
- A-Min Wang
- Bensheng Pharmaceuticals Co., Ltd., Room 102, 131 Kaiqing Road, East Zhangjiang, Pudong, Shanghai 201201, China.
| | - Ru Qiu
- Bensheng Pharmaceuticals Co., Ltd., Room 102, 131 Kaiqing Road, East Zhangjiang, Pudong, Shanghai 201201, China.
| | - Duo Zhang
- Bensheng Pharmaceuticals Co., Ltd., Room 102, 131 Kaiqing Road, East Zhangjiang, Pudong, Shanghai 201201, China.
| | - Xiao-Yan Zhao
- Bensheng Pharmaceuticals Co., Ltd., Room 102, 131 Kaiqing Road, East Zhangjiang, Pudong, Shanghai 201201, China.
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