1
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Badenhorst M, Windhorst AD, Beaino W. Navigating the landscape of PD-1/PD-L1 imaging tracers: from challenges to opportunities. Front Med (Lausanne) 2024; 11:1401515. [PMID: 38915766 PMCID: PMC11195831 DOI: 10.3389/fmed.2024.1401515] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/15/2024] [Accepted: 05/20/2024] [Indexed: 06/26/2024] Open
Abstract
Immunotherapy targeted to immune checkpoint inhibitors, such as the program cell death receptor (PD-1) and its ligand (PD-L1), has revolutionized cancer treatment. However, it is now well-known that PD-1/PD-L1 immunotherapy response is inconsistent among patients. The current challenge is to customize treatment regimens per patient, which could be possible if the PD-1/PD-L1 expression and dynamic landscape are known. With positron emission tomography (PET) imaging, it is possible to image these immune targets non-invasively and system-wide during therapy. A successful PET imaging tracer should meet specific criteria concerning target affinity, specificity, clearance rate and target-specific uptake, to name a few. The structural profile of such a tracer will define its properties and can be used to optimize tracers in development and design new ones. Currently, a range of PD-1/PD-L1-targeting PET tracers are available from different molecular categories that have shown impressive preclinical and clinical results, each with its own advantages and disadvantages. This review will provide an overview of current PET tracers targeting the PD-1/PD-L1 axis. Antibody, peptide, and antibody fragment tracers will be discussed with respect to their molecular characteristics and binding properties and ways to optimize them.
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Affiliation(s)
- Melinda Badenhorst
- Amsterdam UMC location Vrije Universiteit Amsterdam, Department of Radiology and Nuclear Medicine, De Boelelaan, Amsterdam, Netherlands
- Cancer Center Amsterdam, Imaging and Biomarkers, Amsterdam, Netherlands
| | - Albert D. Windhorst
- Amsterdam UMC location Vrije Universiteit Amsterdam, Department of Radiology and Nuclear Medicine, De Boelelaan, Amsterdam, Netherlands
- Cancer Center Amsterdam, Imaging and Biomarkers, Amsterdam, Netherlands
| | - Wissam Beaino
- Amsterdam UMC location Vrije Universiteit Amsterdam, Department of Radiology and Nuclear Medicine, De Boelelaan, Amsterdam, Netherlands
- Cancer Center Amsterdam, Imaging and Biomarkers, Amsterdam, Netherlands
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2
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Klebansky B, Backer M, Gorbatyuk V, Vinogradova O, Backer J. In Search of Better Peptide-(Derived from PD-L2)-Based Immune Checkpoint Inhibitors. Biomolecules 2024; 14:597. [PMID: 38786004 PMCID: PMC11118832 DOI: 10.3390/biom14050597] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/11/2024] [Revised: 05/10/2024] [Accepted: 05/16/2024] [Indexed: 05/25/2024] Open
Abstract
Current anti-cancer immune checkpoint therapy relies on antibodies that primarily target the PD-1/PD-L1(-L2) negative regulatory pathway. Although very successful in some cases for certain cancers, these antibodies do not help most patients who, presumably, should benefit from this type of therapy. Therefore, an unmet clinical need for novel, more effective drugs targeting immune checkpoints remains. We have developed a series of high-potency peptide inhibitors interfering with PD-1/PD-L1(-L2) protein-protein interaction. Our best peptide inhibitors are 12 and 14 amino acids long and show sub-micromolar IC50 inhibitory activity in the in vitro assay. The positioning of the peptides within the PD-1 binding site is explored by extensive modeling. It is further supported by 2D NMR studies of PD-1/peptide complexes. These results reflect substantial progress in the development of immune checkpoint inhibitors using peptidomimetics.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Marina Backer
- SibTech Inc., 115A Commerce Drive, Brookfield, CT 06804, USA
| | - Vitaliy Gorbatyuk
- Center for Open Research Resources & Equipment, University of Connecticut, Storrs, CT 06269-3060, USA
| | - Olga Vinogradova
- Department of Pharmaceutical Sciences, School of Pharmacy, University of Connecticut, Storrs, CT 06269-3092, USA
| | - Joseph Backer
- SibTech Inc., 115A Commerce Drive, Brookfield, CT 06804, USA
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3
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Kempson J, Zhao R, Pawluczyk J, Wang B, Zhang H, Hou X, Allen MP, Wu DR, Li P, Yip S, Smith A, Traeger SC, Huang S, Cutrone J, Mukherjee S, Sfouggatakis C, Poss M, Scola PM, Meanwell NA, Carter PH, Mathur A. Challenges with the Synthesis of a Macrocyclic Thioether Peptide: From Milligram to Multigram Using Solid Phase Peptide Synthesis (SPPS). J Org Chem 2024; 89:6639-6650. [PMID: 38651358 DOI: 10.1021/acs.joc.4c00429] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 04/25/2024]
Abstract
We describe an optimization and scale-up of the 45-membered macrocyclic thioether peptide BMS-986189 utilizing solid-phase peptide synthesis (SPPS). Improvements to linear peptide isolation, macrocyclization, and peptide purification were demonstrated to increase the throughput and purification of material on scale and enabled the synthesis and purification of >60 g of target peptide. Taken together, not only these improvements resulted in a 28-fold yield increase from the original SPPS approach, but also the generality of this newly developed SPPS purification sequence has found application in the synthesis and purification of other macrocyclic thioether peptides.
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Affiliation(s)
- James Kempson
- Research and Early Development, Bristol-Myers Squibb Company, Princeton, New Jersey 08543-4000, United States
| | - Rulin Zhao
- Research and Early Development, Bristol-Myers Squibb Company, Princeton, New Jersey 08543-4000, United States
| | - Joseph Pawluczyk
- Research and Early Development, Bristol-Myers Squibb Company, Princeton, New Jersey 08543-4000, United States
| | - Bei Wang
- Research and Early Development, Bristol-Myers Squibb Company, Princeton, New Jersey 08543-4000, United States
| | - Huiping Zhang
- Research and Early Development, Bristol-Myers Squibb Company, Princeton, New Jersey 08543-4000, United States
| | - Xiaoping Hou
- Research and Early Development, Bristol-Myers Squibb Company, Princeton, New Jersey 08543-4000, United States
| | - Martin P Allen
- Research and Early Development, Bristol-Myers Squibb Company, Princeton, New Jersey 08543-4000, United States
| | - Dauh-Rurng Wu
- Research and Early Development, Bristol-Myers Squibb Company, Princeton, New Jersey 08543-4000, United States
| | - Peng Li
- Research and Early Development, Bristol-Myers Squibb Company, Princeton, New Jersey 08543-4000, United States
| | - Shiuhang Yip
- Research and Early Development, Bristol-Myers Squibb Company, Princeton, New Jersey 08543-4000, United States
| | - Aaron Smith
- Research and Early Development, Bristol-Myers Squibb Company, Princeton, New Jersey 08543-4000, United States
| | - Sarah C Traeger
- Research and Early Development, Bristol-Myers Squibb Company, Princeton, New Jersey 08543-4000, United States
| | - Stella Huang
- Research and Early Development, Bristol-Myers Squibb Company, Princeton, New Jersey 08543-4000, United States
| | - Jingfang Cutrone
- Research and Early Development, Bristol-Myers Squibb Company, Princeton, New Jersey 08543-4000, United States
| | - Subha Mukherjee
- Chemical and Process Development, Bristol-Myers Squibb Company, New Brunswick, New Jersey 08903, United States
| | - Chris Sfouggatakis
- Chemical and Process Development, Bristol-Myers Squibb Company, New Brunswick, New Jersey 08903, United States
| | - Michael Poss
- Research and Early Development, Bristol-Myers Squibb Company, Princeton, New Jersey 08543-4000, United States
| | - Paul M Scola
- Research and Early Development, Bristol-Myers Squibb Company, Princeton, New Jersey 08543-4000, United States
| | - Nicholas A Meanwell
- Research and Early Development, Bristol-Myers Squibb Company, Princeton, New Jersey 08543-4000, United States
| | - Percy H Carter
- Research and Early Development, Bristol-Myers Squibb Company, Princeton, New Jersey 08543-4000, United States
| | - Arvind Mathur
- Research and Early Development, Bristol-Myers Squibb Company, Princeton, New Jersey 08543-4000, United States
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4
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Zamani MR, Hadzima M, Blažková K, Šubr V, Ormsby T, Celis-Gutierrez J, Malissen B, Kostka L, Etrych T, Šácha P, Konvalinka J. Polymer-based antibody mimetics (iBodies) target human PD-L1 and function as a potent immune checkpoint blocker. J Biol Chem 2024; 300:107325. [PMID: 38685532 PMCID: PMC11154707 DOI: 10.1016/j.jbc.2024.107325] [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: 12/22/2023] [Revised: 04/09/2024] [Accepted: 04/19/2024] [Indexed: 05/02/2024] Open
Abstract
Immune checkpoint blockade (ICB) using monoclonal antibodies against programmed cell death protein 1 (PD-1) or programmed death-ligand 1 (PD-L1) is the treatment of choice for cancer immunotherapy. However, low tissue permeability, immunogenicity, immune-related adverse effects, and high cost could be possibly improved using alternative approaches. On the other hand, synthetic low-molecular-weight (LMW) PD-1/PD-L1 blockers have failed to progress beyond in vitro studies, mostly due to low binding affinity or poor pharmacological characteristics resulting from their limited solubility and/or stability. Here, we report the development of polymer-based anti-human PD-L1 antibody mimetics (α-hPD-L1 iBodies) by attaching the macrocyclic peptide WL12 to a N-(2-hydroxypropyl)methacrylamide copolymer. We characterized the binding properties of iBodies using surface plasmon resonance, enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay, flow cytometry, confocal microscopy, and a cellular ICB model. We found that the α-hPD-L1 iBodies specifically target human PD-L1 (hPD-L1) and block the PD-1/PD-L1 interaction in vitro, comparable to the atezolizumab, durvalumab, and avelumab licensed monoclonal antibodies targeting PD-L1. Our findings suggest that iBodies can be used as experimental tools to target hPD-L1 and could serve as a platform to potentiate the therapeutic effect of hPD-L1-targeting small molecules by improving their affinity and pharmacokinetic properties.
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Affiliation(s)
- Mohammad Reza Zamani
- Faculty of Science, Department of Cell Biology, Charles University, Prague, Czech Republic; Institute of Organic Chemistry and Biochemistry, Czech Academy of Sciences, Prague, Czech Republic
| | - Martin Hadzima
- Institute of Organic Chemistry and Biochemistry, Czech Academy of Sciences, Prague, Czech Republic; Faculty of Science, Department of Organic Chemistry, Charles University, Prague, Czech Republic
| | - Kristýna Blažková
- Institute of Organic Chemistry and Biochemistry, Czech Academy of Sciences, Prague, Czech Republic
| | - Vladimír Šubr
- Department of Biomedical polymers, Institute of Macromolecular Chemistry, Czech Academy of Sciences, Prague, Czech Republic
| | - Tereza Ormsby
- Institute of Organic Chemistry and Biochemistry, Czech Academy of Sciences, Prague, Czech Republic
| | - Javier Celis-Gutierrez
- Centre d'Immunologie de Marseille-Luminy, Aix-Marseille Université, INSERM, CNRS, Marseille, France
| | - Bernard Malissen
- Centre d'Immunologie de Marseille-Luminy, Aix-Marseille Université, INSERM, CNRS, Marseille, France
| | - Libor Kostka
- Department of Biomedical polymers, Institute of Macromolecular Chemistry, Czech Academy of Sciences, Prague, Czech Republic
| | - Tomáš Etrych
- Department of Biomedical polymers, Institute of Macromolecular Chemistry, Czech Academy of Sciences, Prague, Czech Republic
| | - Pavel Šácha
- Institute of Organic Chemistry and Biochemistry, Czech Academy of Sciences, Prague, Czech Republic.
| | - Jan Konvalinka
- Institute of Organic Chemistry and Biochemistry, Czech Academy of Sciences, Prague, Czech Republic; Faculty of Science, Department of Biochemistry, Charles University, Prague, Czech Republic.
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5
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Xu J, Kong Y, Zhu P, Du M, Liang X, Tong Y, Li X, Dong C. Progress in small-molecule inhibitors targeting PD-L1. RSC Med Chem 2024; 15:1161-1175. [PMID: 38665838 PMCID: PMC11042164 DOI: 10.1039/d3md00655g] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/22/2023] [Accepted: 02/29/2024] [Indexed: 04/28/2024] Open
Abstract
PD-L1 is a transmembrane protein overexpressed by tumor cells. It binds to PD-1 on the surface of T-cells, suppresses T-cell activity and hinders the immune response against cancer. Clinically, several monoclonal antibodies targeting PD-1/PD-L1 have achieved significant success in cancer immunotherapy. Nevertheless, their disadvantages, such as unchecked immune responses, high cost and long half-life, stimulated pharmacologists to develop small-molecule inhibitors targeting PD-1/PD-L1. After a batch of excellent inhibitors with a biphenyl core structure were firstly reported by BMS, more and more researchers focused on small-molecule inhibitors targeting PD-L1 rather than PD-1. Numerous small-molecule inhibitors were extensively designed and synthesized in the past few years. In this paper, the structural characteristics of PD-L1 and complexes of PD-L1 with its inhibitors are elaborated and small molecule inhibitors developed in the last decade are summarized as well. This paper aims to provide insights into further designing and synthesis of small molecule inhibitors targeting PD-L1.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jindan Xu
- Henan University of Chinese Medicine Zhengzhou 450046 Henan China
- Henan Polysaccharide Research Center Zhengzhou 450046 Henan China
- Henan Key Laboratory of Chinese Medicine for Polysaccharides and Drugs Research Zhengzhou 450046 Henan China
| | - Yuanfang Kong
- Henan University of Chinese Medicine Zhengzhou 450046 Henan China
| | - Pengbo Zhu
- Henan University of Chinese Medicine Zhengzhou 450046 Henan China
- Henan Polysaccharide Research Center Zhengzhou 450046 Henan China
- Henan Key Laboratory of Chinese Medicine for Polysaccharides and Drugs Research Zhengzhou 450046 Henan China
| | - Mingyan Du
- Henan University of Chinese Medicine Zhengzhou 450046 Henan China
- Henan Polysaccharide Research Center Zhengzhou 450046 Henan China
- Henan Key Laboratory of Chinese Medicine for Polysaccharides and Drugs Research Zhengzhou 450046 Henan China
| | - Xuan Liang
- Henan University of Chinese Medicine Zhengzhou 450046 Henan China
| | - Yan Tong
- Henan University of Chinese Medicine Zhengzhou 450046 Henan China
| | - Xiaofei Li
- Henan University of Chinese Medicine Zhengzhou 450046 Henan China
- Henan Polysaccharide Research Center Zhengzhou 450046 Henan China
- Henan Key Laboratory of Chinese Medicine for Polysaccharides and Drugs Research Zhengzhou 450046 Henan China
| | - Chunhong Dong
- Henan University of Chinese Medicine Zhengzhou 450046 Henan China
- Henan Polysaccharide Research Center Zhengzhou 450046 Henan China
- Henan Key Laboratory of Chinese Medicine for Polysaccharides and Drugs Research Zhengzhou 450046 Henan China
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6
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van der Straat R, Draijer R, Surmiak E, Butera R, Land L, Magiera-Mularz K, Musielak B, Plewka J, Holak TA, Dömling A. 1,5-Disubstituted tetrazoles as PD-1/PD-L1 antagonists. RSC Med Chem 2024; 15:1210-1215. [PMID: 38665826 PMCID: PMC11042242 DOI: 10.1039/d3md00746d] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/27/2023] [Accepted: 02/21/2024] [Indexed: 04/28/2024] Open
Abstract
The progress in cancer survival and treatment has witnessed a remarkable transformation through the innovative approach of targeting the inhibitory immune checkpoint protein PD-1/PD-L1 complex by mAbs, e.g. pembrolizumab (Keytruda). While generating 17.2 billion U.S. dollars in revenue in 2021, the true significance of these developments lies in their ability to enhance cancer patient outcomes. Despite the proven efficacy of mAbs in inhibiting the PD-1/PD-L1 signaling pathways, they face significant challenges, including limited response rates, high production costs, missing oral bioavailability, and extended half-lives that can lead to immune-related adverse effects. A promising alternative approach involves the use of small molecules acting as PD-1/PD-L1 antagonists to stimulate PD-L1 dimerization. However, the precise mechanisms of action of these molecules remain partially understood, posing challenges to their development. In this context, our research focuses on the creation of a novel scaffold based on the Ugi tetrazole four-component reaction (UT-4CR) to develop low-molecular-weight inhibitors of PD-L1. Employing structure-based methods, we synthesized a library of small compounds using biphenyl vinyl isocyanide, leading to the discovery of a structure-activity relationship among 1,5-disubstituted tetrazole-based inhibitors. Supported by a cocrystal structure with PD-L1, these inhibitors underwent biophysical testing, including HTRF and protein NMR experiments, resulting in the identification of potent candidates with sub-micromolar PD-L1 affinities. This finding opens opportunities to the further development of a new class of PD-L1 antagonists, holding promise for improved cancer immunotherapy strategies.
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Affiliation(s)
- Robin van der Straat
- Department of Drug Design, University of Groningen 9713 AV Groningen The Netherlands
| | - Rosalie Draijer
- Department of Drug Design, University of Groningen 9713 AV Groningen The Netherlands
| | - Ewa Surmiak
- Department of Organic Chemistry, Faculty of Chemistry, Jagiellonian University 30-387 Kraków Poland
| | - Roberto Butera
- Department of Drug Design, University of Groningen 9713 AV Groningen The Netherlands
| | - Lennart Land
- Department of Drug Design, University of Groningen 9713 AV Groningen The Netherlands
| | - Katarzyna Magiera-Mularz
- Department of Organic Chemistry, Faculty of Chemistry, Jagiellonian University 30-387 Kraków Poland
| | - Bogdan Musielak
- Department of Organic Chemistry, Faculty of Chemistry, Jagiellonian University 30-387 Kraków Poland
| | - Jacek Plewka
- Department of Organic Chemistry, Faculty of Chemistry, Jagiellonian University 30-387 Kraków Poland
| | - Tad A Holak
- Department of Organic Chemistry, Faculty of Chemistry, Jagiellonian University 30-387 Kraków Poland
| | - Alexander Dömling
- Department of Drug Design, University of Groningen 9713 AV Groningen The Netherlands
- Institute of Molecular and Translational Medicine, Faculty of Medicine and Dentistry and Czech Advanced Technology and Research Institute, Palackȳ University in Olomouc Olomouc Czech Republic
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7
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Javed SA, Najmi A, Ahsan W, Zoghebi K. Targeting PD-1/PD-L-1 immune checkpoint inhibition for cancer immunotherapy: success and challenges. Front Immunol 2024; 15:1383456. [PMID: 38660299 PMCID: PMC11039846 DOI: 10.3389/fimmu.2024.1383456] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/07/2024] [Accepted: 03/25/2024] [Indexed: 04/26/2024] Open
Abstract
The programmed death-1 receptor (PD-1) acts as a T-cell brake, and its interaction with ligand-1 (PD-L-1) interferes with signal transduction of the T-cell receptor. This leads to suppression of T-cell survival, proliferation, and activity in the tumor microenvironment resulting in compromised anticancer immunity. PD-1/PD-L-1 interaction blockade shown remarkable clinical success in various cancer immunotherapies. To date, most PD-1/PD-L-1 blockers approved for clinical use are monoclonal antibodies (mAbs); however, their therapeutic use are limited owing to poor clinical responses in a proportion of patients. mAbs also displayed low tumor penetration, steep production costs, and incidences of immune-related side effects. This strongly indicates the importance of developing novel inhibitors as cancer immunotherapeutic agents. Recently, advancements in the small molecule-based inhibitors (SMIs) that directly block the PD-1/PD-L-1 axis gained attention from the scientific community involved in cancer research. SMIs demonstrated certain advantages over mAbs, including longer half-lives, low cost, greater cell penetration, and possibility of oral administration. Currently, several SMIs are in development pipeline as potential therapeutics for cancer immunotherapy. To develop new SMIs, a wide range of structural scaffolds have been explored with excellent outcomes; biphenyl-based scaffolds are most studied. In this review, we analyzed the development of mAbs and SMIs targeting PD-1/PD-L-1 axis for cancer treatment. Altogether, the present review delves into the problems related to mAbs use and a detailed discussion on the development and current status of SMIs. This article may provide a comprehensive guide to medicinal chemists regarding the potential structural scaffolds required for PD-1/PD-L-1 interaction inhibition.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Asim Najmi
- Department of Pharmaceutical Chemistry, College of Pharmacy, Jazan University, Jazan, Saudi Arabia
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8
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Bojko M, Węgrzyn K, Sikorska E, Ciura P, Battin C, Steinberger P, Magiera-Mularz K, Dubin G, Kulesza A, Sieradzan AK, Spodzieja M, Rodziewicz-Motowidło S. Peptide-based inhibitors targeting the PD-1/PD-L1 axis: potential immunotherapeutics for cancer. Transl Oncol 2024; 42:101892. [PMID: 38359715 PMCID: PMC10877416 DOI: 10.1016/j.tranon.2024.101892] [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: 09/29/2023] [Revised: 12/20/2023] [Accepted: 01/23/2024] [Indexed: 02/17/2024] Open
Abstract
The PD-1/PD-L1 complex belongs to the group of inhibitory immune checkpoints and plays a critical role in immune regulation. The PD-1/PD-L1 axis is also responsible for immune evasion of cancer cells, and this complex is one of the main targets of immunotherapies used in oncology. Treatment using immune checkpoint inhibitors is mainly based on antibodies. This approach has great therapeutic potential; however, it also has major drawbacks and can induce immune-related adverse events. Thus, there is a strong need for alternative, non-antibody-based therapies using small molecules, peptides, or peptidomimetics. In the present study, we designed, synthesized, and evaluated a set of PD-1-targeting peptides based on the sequence and structure of PD-L1. The binding of these peptides to PD-1 was investigated using SPR and ELISA. We also assessed their ability to compete with PD-L1 for binding to PD-1 and their inhibitory properties against the PD-1/PD-L1 complex at the cellular level. The best results were obtained for the peptide PD-L1(111-127)(Y112C-I126C), named (L11), which displaced PD-L1 from binding to PD-1 in the competitive assay and inhibited the formation of the PD-1/PD-L1 complex. The (L11) peptide also exhibited strong affinity for PD-1. NMR studies revealed that (L11) does not form a well-defined secondary structure; however, MD simulation indicated that (L11) binds to PD-1 at the same place as PD-L1. After further optimization of the structure, the peptide inhibitor obtained in this study could also be used as a potential therapeutic compound targeting the PD-1/PD-L1 axis.
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Affiliation(s)
- Magdalena Bojko
- University of Gdańsk, Faculty of Chemistry, Wita Stwosza 63, 80-308 Gdańsk, Poland
| | - Katarzyna Węgrzyn
- University of Gdańsk, Intercollegiate Faculty of Biotechnology of the University of Gdańsk and the Medical University of Gdańsk, Abrahama 58, 80-307 Gdańsk, Poland
| | - Emilia Sikorska
- University of Gdańsk, Faculty of Chemistry, Wita Stwosza 63, 80-308 Gdańsk, Poland
| | - Piotr Ciura
- University of Gdańsk, Faculty of Chemistry, Wita Stwosza 63, 80-308 Gdańsk, Poland
| | - Claire Battin
- Medical University of Vienna, Institute of Immunology, Division of Immune Receptors and T cell Activation, Lazarettgasse 19, 1090 Vienna, Austria
| | - Peter Steinberger
- Medical University of Vienna, Institute of Immunology, Division of Immune Receptors and T cell Activation, Lazarettgasse 19, 1090 Vienna, Austria
| | - Katarzyna Magiera-Mularz
- Małopolska Centre of Biotechnology, Jagiellonian University, Gronostajowa 7A, 30-387 Kraków, Poland
| | - Grzegorz Dubin
- Jagiellonian University, Faculty of Chemistry, Gronostajowa 2, 30-387 Kraków, Poland
| | - Adam Kulesza
- University of Gdańsk, Faculty of Chemistry, Wita Stwosza 63, 80-308 Gdańsk, Poland
| | - Adam K Sieradzan
- University of Gdańsk, Faculty of Chemistry, Wita Stwosza 63, 80-308 Gdańsk, Poland
| | - Marta Spodzieja
- University of Gdańsk, Faculty of Chemistry, Wita Stwosza 63, 80-308 Gdańsk, Poland.
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9
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Zhang C, Liu F, Zhang Y, Song C. Macrocycles and macrocyclization in anticancer drug discovery: Important pieces of the puzzle. Eur J Med Chem 2024; 268:116234. [PMID: 38401189 DOI: 10.1016/j.ejmech.2024.116234] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/17/2023] [Revised: 02/10/2024] [Accepted: 02/11/2024] [Indexed: 02/26/2024]
Abstract
Increasing disease-related proteins have been identified as novel therapeutic targets. Macrocycles are emerging as potential solutions, bridging the gap between conventional small molecules and biomacromolecules in drug discovery. Inspired by successful macrocyclic drugs of natural origins, macrocycles are attracting more attention for enhanced binding affinity and target selectivity. Due to the conformation constraint and structure preorganization, macrocycles can reach bioactive conformations more easily than parent acyclic compounds. Also, rational macrocyclization combined with sequent structural modification will help improve oral bioavailability and combat drug resistance. This review introduces various strategies to enhance membrane permeability in macrocyclization and subsequent modification, such as N-methylation, intramolecular hydrogen bonding modulation, isomerization, and reversible bicyclization. Several case studies highlight macrocyclic inhibitors targeting kinases, HDAC, and protein-protein interactions. Finally, some macrocyclic agents targeting tumor microenvironments are illustrated.
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Affiliation(s)
- Chao Zhang
- Laboratory for Food and Medicine Homologous Natural Resources Development and Utilization, Belgorod College of Food Sciences, Dezhou University, Dezhou, 253023, China
| | - Fenfen Liu
- Laboratory for Food and Medicine Homologous Natural Resources Development and Utilization, Belgorod College of Food Sciences, Dezhou University, Dezhou, 253023, China
| | - Youming Zhang
- State Key Laboratory of Microbial Technology, Shandong University, Qingdao, 266237, China.
| | - Chun Song
- Laboratory for Food and Medicine Homologous Natural Resources Development and Utilization, Belgorod College of Food Sciences, Dezhou University, Dezhou, 253023, China; State Key Laboratory of Microbial Technology, Shandong University, Qingdao, 266237, China.
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10
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Awadasseid A, Wang R, Sun S, Zhang F, Wu Y, Zhang W. Small molecule and PROTAC molecule experiments in vitro and in vivo, focusing on mouse PD-L1 and human PD-L1 differences as targets. Biomed Pharmacother 2024; 172:116257. [PMID: 38350367 DOI: 10.1016/j.biopha.2024.116257] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/05/2023] [Revised: 01/20/2024] [Accepted: 02/06/2024] [Indexed: 02/15/2024] Open
Abstract
In recent years, several monoclonal antibodies (mAbs) targeting PD-L1 have been licensed by the FDA for use in the treatment of cancer, demonstrating the effectiveness of blocking immune checkpoints, particularly the PD-1/PD-L1 pathway. Although mAb-based therapies have made great strides, they still have their limitations, and new small-molecule or PROTAC-molecule inhibitors that can block the PD-1/PD-L1 axis are desperately needed. Therefore, it is crucial to translate initial in vitro discoveries into appropriate in vivo animal models when creating PD-L1-blocking therapies. Due to their widespread availability and low experimental expenses, classical immunocompetent mice are appealing for research purposes. However, it is yet unclear whether the mouse (m) PD-L1 interaction with human (h) PD-1 in vivo would produce a functional immunological checkpoint. In this review, we summarize the in vitro and in vivo experimental studies of small molecules and PROTAC molecules, particularly the distinctions between mPD-L1 as a target and hPD-L1 as a target.
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Affiliation(s)
- Annoor Awadasseid
- Lab of Chemical Biology and Molecular Drug Design, College of Pharmaceutical Science, Zhejiang University of Technology, Hangzhou 310014, China; Moganshan Institute ZJUT, Deqing 313202, China; Institute of Drug Development & Chemical Biology, Zhejiang University of Technology, Hangzhou 310014, China; Department of Biochemistry & Food Sciences, University of Kordofan, El-Obeid 51111, Sudan
| | - Rui Wang
- Lab of Chemical Biology and Molecular Drug Design, College of Pharmaceutical Science, Zhejiang University of Technology, Hangzhou 310014, China; Institute of Drug Development & Chemical Biology, Zhejiang University of Technology, Hangzhou 310014, China
| | - Shishi Sun
- Lab of Chemical Biology and Molecular Drug Design, College of Pharmaceutical Science, Zhejiang University of Technology, Hangzhou 310014, China; Institute of Drug Development & Chemical Biology, Zhejiang University of Technology, Hangzhou 310014, China
| | - Feng Zhang
- Lab of Chemical Biology and Molecular Drug Design, College of Pharmaceutical Science, Zhejiang University of Technology, Hangzhou 310014, China; Institute of Drug Development & Chemical Biology, Zhejiang University of Technology, Hangzhou 310014, China
| | - Yanling Wu
- Lab of Molecular Immunology, Virus Inspection Department, Zhejiang Provincial Center for Disease Control and Prevention, Hangzhou 310051, China.
| | - Wen Zhang
- Lab of Chemical Biology and Molecular Drug Design, College of Pharmaceutical Science, Zhejiang University of Technology, Hangzhou 310014, China; Institute of Drug Development & Chemical Biology, Zhejiang University of Technology, Hangzhou 310014, China.
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11
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Chen Z, Hu T, Zhou J, Gu X, Chen S, Qi Q, Wang L. Overview of tumor immunotherapy based on approved drugs. Life Sci 2024; 340:122419. [PMID: 38242494 DOI: 10.1016/j.lfs.2024.122419] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/01/2023] [Revised: 12/25/2023] [Accepted: 01/07/2024] [Indexed: 01/21/2024]
Abstract
Tumor immunotherapy has become a new hotspot for cancer treatment. Various immunotherapies, such as immune checkpoint inhibitors, oncolytic viruses (OVs), cytokines, and cancer vaccines, have been used to treat tumors. They operate through different mechanisms, along with certain toxicities and side effects. Understanding the mechanisms by which immunotherapy modulates the immune system is essential for improving the efficacy and managing these adverse effects. This article discusses various currently approved cancer immunotherapy mechanisms and related agents approved by the Food and Drug Administration, the European Medicines Agency, and the Medicines and Medical Devices Agency. We also review the latest progress in immune drugs approved by the National Medical Products Administration, including monoclonal antibodies, cytokines, OVs, and chimeric antigen receptor-T cell therapy, to help understand the clinical application of tumor immunotherapy.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ziqin Chen
- College of Chinese Medicine, Hubei University of Chinese Medicine, Wuhan, Hubei 430061, China
| | - Tiantian Hu
- Clinical Base of Qingpu Traditional Medicine Hospital, the Academy of Integrative Medicine of Fudan University, Shanghai 201700, China
| | - Jing Zhou
- Laboratory for Reproductive Immunology, Obstetrics and Gynecology Hospital of Fudan University, Shanghai 200011, China; The Academy of Integrative Medicine of Fudan University, Shanghai 200011, China; Shanghai Key Laboratory of Female Reproductive Endocrine-related Diseases, Shanghai 200011, China
| | - Xiaolei Gu
- College of Acupuncture and Orthopedics, Hubei University of Chinese Medicine, Wuhan, Hubei 430061, China
| | - Song Chen
- College of Acupuncture and Orthopedics, Hubei University of Chinese Medicine, Wuhan, Hubei 430061, China
| | - Qing Qi
- Laboratory for Reproductive Immunology, Obstetrics and Gynecology Hospital of Fudan University, Shanghai 200011, China; The Academy of Integrative Medicine of Fudan University, Shanghai 200011, China; Shanghai Key Laboratory of Female Reproductive Endocrine-related Diseases, Shanghai 200011, China.
| | - Ling Wang
- Laboratory for Reproductive Immunology, Obstetrics and Gynecology Hospital of Fudan University, Shanghai 200011, China; The Academy of Integrative Medicine of Fudan University, Shanghai 200011, China; Shanghai Key Laboratory of Female Reproductive Endocrine-related Diseases, Shanghai 200011, China.
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12
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Surmiak E, Ząber J, Plewka J, Wojtanowicz G, Kocik-Krol J, Kruc O, Muszak D, Rodríguez I, Musielak B, Viviano M, Castellano S, Skalniak L, Magiera-Mularz K, Holak TA, Kalinowska-Tłuścik J. Solubilizer Tag Effect on PD-L1/Inhibitor Binding Properties for m-Terphenyl Derivatives. ACS Med Chem Lett 2024; 15:36-44. [PMID: 38229762 PMCID: PMC10788941 DOI: 10.1021/acsmedchemlett.3c00306] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/18/2023] [Revised: 11/22/2023] [Accepted: 11/28/2023] [Indexed: 01/18/2024] Open
Abstract
Although heavily studied, the subject of anti-PD-L1 small-molecule inhibitors is still elusive. Here we present a systematic overview of the principles behind successful anti-PD-L1 small-molecule inhibitor design on the example of the m-terphenyl scaffold, with a particular focus on the neglected influence of the solubilizer tag on the overall affinity toward PD-L1. The inhibitor developed according to the proposed guidelines was characterized through its potency in blocking PD-1/PD-L1 complex formation in homogeneous time-resolved fluorescence and cell-based assays. The affinity is also explained based on the crystal structure of the inhibitor itself and its costructure with PD-L1 as well as a molecular modeling study. Our results structuralize the knowledge related to the strong pharmacophore feature of the m-terphenyl scaffold preferential geometry and the more complex role of the solubilizer tag in PD-L1 homodimer stabilization.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ewa Surmiak
- Faculty
of Chemistry, Jagiellonian University, Gronostajowa 2, 30-387 Cracow, Poland
| | - Julia Ząber
- Faculty
of Chemistry, Jagiellonian University, Gronostajowa 2, 30-387 Cracow, Poland
- Doctoral
School of Exact and Natural Sciences, Jagiellonian
University, Łojasiewicza 11, 30-348 Cracow, Poland
| | - Jacek Plewka
- Faculty
of Chemistry, Jagiellonian University, Gronostajowa 2, 30-387 Cracow, Poland
| | - Grzegorz Wojtanowicz
- Faculty
of Chemistry, Jagiellonian University, Gronostajowa 2, 30-387 Cracow, Poland
| | - Justyna Kocik-Krol
- Faculty
of Chemistry, Jagiellonian University, Gronostajowa 2, 30-387 Cracow, Poland
- Doctoral
School of Exact and Natural Sciences, Jagiellonian
University, Łojasiewicza 11, 30-348 Cracow, Poland
| | - Oskar Kruc
- Faculty
of Chemistry, Jagiellonian University, Gronostajowa 2, 30-387 Cracow, Poland
- Doctoral
School of Exact and Natural Sciences, Jagiellonian
University, Łojasiewicza 11, 30-348 Cracow, Poland
| | - Damian Muszak
- Faculty
of Chemistry, Jagiellonian University, Gronostajowa 2, 30-387 Cracow, Poland
| | - Ismael Rodríguez
- Faculty
of Chemistry, Jagiellonian University, Gronostajowa 2, 30-387 Cracow, Poland
- Doctoral
School of Exact and Natural Sciences, Jagiellonian
University, Łojasiewicza 11, 30-348 Cracow, Poland
| | - Bogdan Musielak
- Faculty
of Chemistry, Jagiellonian University, Gronostajowa 2, 30-387 Cracow, Poland
| | - Monica Viviano
- Department
of Pharmacy, University of Salerno, Via Giovanni Paolo II, 84085 Fisciano, Italy
| | - Sabrina Castellano
- Department
of Pharmacy, University of Salerno, Via Giovanni Paolo II, 84085 Fisciano, Italy
| | - Lukasz Skalniak
- Faculty
of Chemistry, Jagiellonian University, Gronostajowa 2, 30-387 Cracow, Poland
| | | | - Tad A. Holak
- Faculty
of Chemistry, Jagiellonian University, Gronostajowa 2, 30-387 Cracow, Poland
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13
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Kim M, Yoon HJ, Lee C, Lee M, Park RW, Lee B, Park EJ, Kim S. Immune Checkpoint-Blocking Nanocages Cross the Blood-Brain Barrier and Impede Brain Tumor Growth. ACS Biomater Sci Eng 2024; 10:575-587. [PMID: 38150627 PMCID: PMC10777349 DOI: 10.1021/acsbiomaterials.3c01200] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/22/2023] [Revised: 12/07/2023] [Accepted: 12/07/2023] [Indexed: 12/29/2023]
Abstract
Glioblastoma (GBM) is the deadliest tumor of the central nervous system, with a median survival of less than 15 months. Despite many trials, immune checkpoint-blocking (ICB) therapies using monoclonal antibodies against the PD-1/PD-L1 axis have demonstrated only limited benefits for GBM patients. Currently, the main hurdles in brain tumor therapy include limited drug delivery across the blood-brain barrier (BBB) and the profoundly immune-suppressive microenvironment of GBM. Thus, there is an urgent need for new therapeutics that can cross the BBB and target brain tumors to modulate the immune microenvironment. To this end, we developed an ICB strategy based on the BBB-permeable, 24-subunit human ferritin heavy chain, modifying the ferritin surface with 24 copies of PD-L1-blocking peptides to create ferritin-based ICB nanocages. The PD-L1pep ferritin nanocages first demonstrated their tumor-targeting and antitumor activities in an allograft colon cancer model. Next, we found that these PD-L1pep ferritin nanocages efficiently penetrated the BBB and targeted brain tumors through specific interactions with PD-L1, significantly inhibiting tumor growth in an orthotopic intracranial tumor model. The addition of PD-L1pep ferritin nanocages to triple in vitro cocultures of T cells, GBM cells, and glial cells significantly inhibited PD-1/PD-L1 interactions and restored T-cell activity. Collectively, these findings indicate that ferritin nanocages displaying PD-L1-blocking peptides can overcome the primary hurdle of brain tumor therapy and are, therefore, promising candidates for treating GBM.
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Affiliation(s)
- Minseong Kim
- Department
of Biochemistry and Cell Biology, School of Medicine, Kyungpook National University, 680 Gukchaebosang-ro, Jung-gu, Daegu 41944, Republic of Korea
- BK21
Plus KNU Biomedical Convergence Program, Department of Biomedical
Science, School of Medicine, Kyungpook National
University, 680 Gukchaebosang-ro, Jung-gu, Daegu 41944, Republic
of Korea
- CMRI,
School of Medicine, Kyungpook National University, 680 Gukchaebosang-ro, Jung-gu, Daegu 41944, Republic of Korea
| | - Hee Jung Yoon
- Immuno-Oncology
Branch, Division of Cancer Biomedical Science, Graduate School of
Cancer Science and Policy, National Cancer
Center, Goyang 10408, Republic
of Korea
| | - Chanju Lee
- Immuno-Oncology
Branch, Division of Cancer Biomedical Science, Graduate School of
Cancer Science and Policy, National Cancer
Center, Goyang 10408, Republic
of Korea
| | - Minah Lee
- Department
of Biochemistry and Cell Biology, School of Medicine, Kyungpook National University, 680 Gukchaebosang-ro, Jung-gu, Daegu 41944, Republic of Korea
- BK21
Plus KNU Biomedical Convergence Program, Department of Biomedical
Science, School of Medicine, Kyungpook National
University, 680 Gukchaebosang-ro, Jung-gu, Daegu 41944, Republic
of Korea
- CMRI,
School of Medicine, Kyungpook National University, 680 Gukchaebosang-ro, Jung-gu, Daegu 41944, Republic of Korea
| | - Rang-Woon Park
- Department
of Biochemistry and Cell Biology, School of Medicine, Kyungpook National University, 680 Gukchaebosang-ro, Jung-gu, Daegu 41944, Republic of Korea
- BK21
Plus KNU Biomedical Convergence Program, Department of Biomedical
Science, School of Medicine, Kyungpook National
University, 680 Gukchaebosang-ro, Jung-gu, Daegu 41944, Republic
of Korea
- CMRI,
School of Medicine, Kyungpook National University, 680 Gukchaebosang-ro, Jung-gu, Daegu 41944, Republic of Korea
| | - Byungheon Lee
- Department
of Biochemistry and Cell Biology, School of Medicine, Kyungpook National University, 680 Gukchaebosang-ro, Jung-gu, Daegu 41944, Republic of Korea
- BK21
Plus KNU Biomedical Convergence Program, Department of Biomedical
Science, School of Medicine, Kyungpook National
University, 680 Gukchaebosang-ro, Jung-gu, Daegu 41944, Republic
of Korea
- CMRI,
School of Medicine, Kyungpook National University, 680 Gukchaebosang-ro, Jung-gu, Daegu 41944, Republic of Korea
| | - Eun Jung Park
- Immuno-Oncology
Branch, Division of Cancer Biomedical Science, Graduate School of
Cancer Science and Policy, National Cancer
Center, Goyang 10408, Republic
of Korea
| | - Soyoun Kim
- Department
of Biochemistry and Cell Biology, School of Medicine, Kyungpook National University, 680 Gukchaebosang-ro, Jung-gu, Daegu 41944, Republic of Korea
- BK21
Plus KNU Biomedical Convergence Program, Department of Biomedical
Science, School of Medicine, Kyungpook National
University, 680 Gukchaebosang-ro, Jung-gu, Daegu 41944, Republic
of Korea
- CMRI,
School of Medicine, Kyungpook National University, 680 Gukchaebosang-ro, Jung-gu, Daegu 41944, Republic of Korea
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14
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Ge S, Zhang B, Li J, Shi J, Jia T, Wang Y, Chen Z, Sang S, Deng S. A novel 68Ga-labeled cyclic peptide molecular probe based on the computer-aided design for noninvasive imaging of PD-L1 expression in tumors. Bioorg Chem 2023; 140:106785. [PMID: 37639759 DOI: 10.1016/j.bioorg.2023.106785] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/27/2023] [Revised: 08/02/2023] [Accepted: 08/11/2023] [Indexed: 08/31/2023]
Abstract
Programmed death-ligand 1 (PD-L1) serves as a crucial biomarker for guiding the screening of cancer patients and the stratification of immunotherapy. However, due to the high heterogeneity of tumors, the current gold standard for detecting PD-L1 expression (immunohistochemistry) fails to comprehensively evaluate the overall PD-L1 expression levels in the body. Fortunately, the use of PD-L1 targeted radiotracers enables quantitative, real-time, and noninvasive assessment of PD-L1 expression levels and dynamics in tumors. Notably, analyzing the binding mode between the precursor and the target protein to find linker binding sites that do not affect the activity of the target molecule can greatly enhance the successful development of molecular probes. This study introduced a groundbreaking cyclic peptide molecular probe called 68Ga-DOTA-PG1. It was derived from the BMS-71 cyclic peptide and was specifically designed to evaluate the expression of PD-L1 in tumors. The radiolabeling yield of 68Ga-DOTA-PG1 surpassed 97% while maintaining a radiochemical purity of over 99%. In vitro experiments demonstrated the effective targeting of PD-L1 in tumor cells by 68Ga-DOTA-PG1, with significantly higher cellular uptake observed in A375-hPD-L1 cells (PD-L1 + ) compared to A375 cells (PD-L1-). Biodistribution and PET imaging studies consistently showed specific accumulation of 68Ga-DOTA-PG1 in A375-hPD-L1 tumors, with a maximum uptake of 11.06 ± 1.70% ID/g at 2 h, significantly higher than the tumor uptake in A375 cells (1.70 ± 0.17% ID/g). These results strongly indicated that 68Ga-DOTA-PG1 held great promise as a PET radiotracer for imaging PD-L1-positive tumors.
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Affiliation(s)
- Shushan Ge
- Department of Nuclear Medicine, The First Affiliated Hospital of Soochow University, Suzhou 215006, China; Nuclear Medicine Laboratory of Mianyang Central Hospital, Mianyang 621099, China
| | - Bin Zhang
- Department of Nuclear Medicine, The First Affiliated Hospital of Soochow University, Suzhou 215006, China
| | - Jihui Li
- Department of Nuclear Medicine, The First Affiliated Hospital of Soochow University, Suzhou 215006, China
| | - Jinyu Shi
- Department of Nuclear Medicine, The First Affiliated Hospital of Soochow University, Suzhou 215006, China
| | - Tongtong Jia
- Department of Nuclear Medicine, The First Affiliated Hospital of Soochow University, Suzhou 215006, China
| | - Yan Wang
- Department of Nuclear Medicine, The First Affiliated Hospital of Soochow University, Suzhou 215006, China
| | - Zhengguo Chen
- Nuclear Medicine Laboratory of Mianyang Central Hospital, Mianyang 621099, China.
| | - Shibiao Sang
- Department of Nuclear Medicine, The First Affiliated Hospital of Soochow University, Suzhou 215006, China.
| | - Shengming Deng
- Department of Nuclear Medicine, The First Affiliated Hospital of Soochow University, Suzhou 215006, China; Nuclear Medicine Laboratory of Mianyang Central Hospital, Mianyang 621099, China.
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15
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Yang Z, Liu Z, Xu C, Xu J, Liu T, He H, Li L, Ren Y, Chen J. Discovery of novel resorcinol biphenyl ether-based macrocyclic small molecules as PD-1/PD-L1 inhibitors with favorable pharmacokinetics for cancer immunotherapy. Bioorg Chem 2023; 139:106740. [PMID: 37478546 DOI: 10.1016/j.bioorg.2023.106740] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/07/2023] [Revised: 07/08/2023] [Accepted: 07/16/2023] [Indexed: 07/23/2023]
Abstract
Programmed death protein 1 (PD-1)/programmed death protein ligand 1 (PD-L1) is one of the most promising immune checkpoints (ICs) in tumor immunology and has been actively pursued as a target for anticancer drug discovery. Based on our previous research in small molecule PD-1/PD-L1 modulators, we designed and synthesized a series of resorcinol biphenyl ether-bearing macrocyclic compounds and evaluated their anti-PD-1/PD-L1 activities. Among them, compound 8d exhibited the highest inhibitory activity against PD-1/PD-L1 interaction with IC50 of 259.7 nM in the homogenous time-resolved fluorescence (HTRF) assay. In addition, 8d displayed in vitro immunomodulatory effects by promoting HepG2 cell death in a HepG2/Jurkat cell co-culture model. Furthermore, 8d effectively inhibited tumor growth (TGI = 74.6% at 40 mg/kg) in a melanoma tumor model in mice without causing obvious toxicity. Moreover, 8d exhibited favorable pharmacokinetics [e.g. high stability, reasonable half-life, and good oral bioavailability (F = 21.5%)]. Finally, molecular modeling studies showed that 8d bound to PD-L1 with high affinity. These results suggest that 8d may serve as a starting point for further development of macrocyclic small molecule-based PD-1/PD-L1 inhibitors for cancer treatment.
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Affiliation(s)
- Zichao Yang
- Guangdong Provincial Key Laboratory of New Drug Screening, NMPA Key Laboratory for Research and Evaluation of Drug Metabolism, School of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Southern Medical University, Guangzhou 510515, China
| | - Ziqing Liu
- Guangdong Provincial Key Laboratory of New Drug Screening, NMPA Key Laboratory for Research and Evaluation of Drug Metabolism, School of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Southern Medical University, Guangzhou 510515, China
| | - Chenglong Xu
- Guangdong Provincial Key Laboratory of New Drug Screening, NMPA Key Laboratory for Research and Evaluation of Drug Metabolism, School of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Southern Medical University, Guangzhou 510515, China
| | - Jianwei Xu
- Guangdong Provincial Key Laboratory of New Drug Screening, NMPA Key Laboratory for Research and Evaluation of Drug Metabolism, School of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Southern Medical University, Guangzhou 510515, China
| | - Ting Liu
- Guangdong Provincial Key Laboratory of New Drug Screening, NMPA Key Laboratory for Research and Evaluation of Drug Metabolism, School of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Southern Medical University, Guangzhou 510515, China
| | - Haiqi He
- Guangdong Provincial Key Laboratory of New Drug Screening, NMPA Key Laboratory for Research and Evaluation of Drug Metabolism, School of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Southern Medical University, Guangzhou 510515, China
| | - Ling Li
- The Eighth Affiliated Hospital, Sun Yat sen University, Shenzhen 518033, China
| | - Yichang Ren
- Guangdong Provincial Key Laboratory of New Drug Screening, NMPA Key Laboratory for Research and Evaluation of Drug Metabolism, School of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Southern Medical University, Guangzhou 510515, China
| | - Jianjun Chen
- Guangdong Provincial Key Laboratory of New Drug Screening, NMPA Key Laboratory for Research and Evaluation of Drug Metabolism, School of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Southern Medical University, Guangzhou 510515, China.
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16
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Liu J, Cheng Y, Yuan L, Liu T, Ruan Y, Ren Y, Li L, Jiang S, Xiao Y, Chen J. Discovery and Crystallography Study of Novel Biphenyl Ether and Oxadiazole Thioether (Non-Arylmethylamine)-Based Small-Molecule PD-1/PD-L1 Inhibitors as Immunotherapeutic Agents. J Med Chem 2023; 66:13172-13188. [PMID: 37674362 DOI: 10.1021/acs.jmedchem.3c01141] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 09/08/2023]
Abstract
Current small-molecule PD-1/PD-L1 inhibitors are mainly based on the arylmethylamine/biphenyl core scaffold. Herein, we designed for the first time a series of non-arylmethylamine analogues (oxadiazole thioether derivatives) as small-molecule PD-1/PD-L1 inhibitors. Among them, compound LP23 exhibited the most potent PD-L1 inhibitory activity with an IC50 of 16.7 nM, 3.2-fold better than the lead BMS-202 (IC50 = 53.6 nM). The X-ray crystal structure of LP23 in complex with PD-L1 was solved at a resolution of 2.6 Å, which further confirmed the high binding affinity of LP23 to PD-L1. In the HepG2/Jurkat T cell co-culture model, LP23 effectively promoted HepG2 cell death by restoring the immune function of T cells. In addition, LP23 showed excellent in vivo antitumor efficacy (TGI = 88.6% at 30 mg/kg) and benign toxicity profiles in a B16-F10 tumor model by modulating PD-L1. In summary, LP23 represents the first non-arylmethylamine-based small-molecule PD-1/PD-L1 inhibitor worthy of further investigation.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jin Liu
- School of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Guangdong Provincial Key Laboratory of New Drug Screening, Southern Medical University, Guangzhou 510515, China
- Key Laboratory of Tropical Biological Resources of Ministry of Education and One Health Institute, School of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Hainan University, Haikou 570228, China
| | - Yao Cheng
- State Key Laboratory of Natural Medicines and Department of Pharmacology, School of Pharmacy, China Pharmaceutical University, Nanjing 210009, China
- Chongqing Innovation Institute of China Pharmaceutical University, Chongqing 401135, China
| | - Lin Yuan
- School of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Guangdong Provincial Key Laboratory of New Drug Screening, Southern Medical University, Guangzhou 510515, China
| | - Ting Liu
- School of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Guangdong Provincial Key Laboratory of New Drug Screening, Southern Medical University, Guangzhou 510515, China
| | - Yong Ruan
- School of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Guangdong Provincial Key Laboratory of New Drug Screening, Southern Medical University, Guangzhou 510515, China
| | - Yichang Ren
- School of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Guangdong Provincial Key Laboratory of New Drug Screening, Southern Medical University, Guangzhou 510515, China
| | - Ling Li
- School of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Guangdong Provincial Key Laboratory of New Drug Screening, Southern Medical University, Guangzhou 510515, China
| | - Sheng Jiang
- State Key Laboratory of Natural Medicines and Department of Medicinal Chemistry, School of Pharmacy, China Pharmaceutical University, Nanjing 210009, China
| | - Yibei Xiao
- State Key Laboratory of Natural Medicines and Department of Pharmacology, School of Pharmacy, China Pharmaceutical University, Nanjing 210009, China
- Chongqing Innovation Institute of China Pharmaceutical University, Chongqing 401135, China
| | - Jianjun Chen
- School of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Guangdong Provincial Key Laboratory of New Drug Screening, Southern Medical University, Guangzhou 510515, China
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17
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Rodriguez I, Kocik-Krol J, Skalniak L, Musielak B, Wisniewska A, Ciesiołkiewicz A, Berlicki Ł, Plewka J, Grudnik P, Stec M, Siedlar M, Holak TA, Magiera-Mularz K. Structural and biological characterization of pAC65, a macrocyclic peptide that blocks PD-L1 with equivalent potency to the FDA-approved antibodies. Mol Cancer 2023; 22:150. [PMID: 37679783 PMCID: PMC10483858 DOI: 10.1186/s12943-023-01853-4] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/16/2022] [Accepted: 08/30/2023] [Indexed: 09/09/2023] Open
Abstract
Recent advances in immuno-oncology have opened up new and impressive treatment options for cancer. Notwithstanding, overcoming the limitations of the current FDA-approved therapies with monoclonal antibodies (mAbs) that block the PD-1/PD-L1 pathway continues to lead to the testing of multiple approaches and optimizations. Recently, a series of macrocyclic peptides have been developed that exhibit binding strengths to PD-L1 ranging from sub-micromolar to micromolar. In this study, we present the most potent non-antibody-based PD-1/PD-L1 interaction inhibitor reported to date. The structural and biological characterization of this macrocyclic PD-L1 targeting peptide provides the rationale for inhibition of both PD-1/PD-L1 and CD80/PD-L1 complexes. The IC50 and EC50 values obtained in PD-L1 binding assays indicate that the pAC65 peptide has potency equivalent to the current FDA-approved mAbs and may have similar activity to the BMS986189 peptide, which entered the clinical trial and has favorable safety and pharmacokinetic data. The data presented here delineate the generation of similar peptides with improved biological activities and applications not only in the field of cancer immunotherapy but also in other disorders related to the immune system.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ismael Rodriguez
- Department of Organic Chemistry, Faculty of Chemistry, Jagiellonian University, Gronostajowa 2, Krakow, 30-387, Poland
| | - Justyna Kocik-Krol
- Department of Organic Chemistry, Faculty of Chemistry, Jagiellonian University, Gronostajowa 2, Krakow, 30-387, Poland
| | - Lukasz Skalniak
- Department of Organic Chemistry, Faculty of Chemistry, Jagiellonian University, Gronostajowa 2, Krakow, 30-387, Poland
| | - Bogdan Musielak
- Department of Organic Chemistry, Faculty of Chemistry, Jagiellonian University, Gronostajowa 2, Krakow, 30-387, Poland
| | - Aneta Wisniewska
- Department of Organic Chemistry, Faculty of Chemistry, Jagiellonian University, Gronostajowa 2, Krakow, 30-387, Poland
| | - Agnieszka Ciesiołkiewicz
- Department of Bioorganic Chemistry, Faculty of Chemistry, Wrocław University of Science and Technology, Wybrzeże Wyspiańskiego 27, Wrocław, 50-370, Poland
| | - Łukasz Berlicki
- Department of Bioorganic Chemistry, Faculty of Chemistry, Wrocław University of Science and Technology, Wybrzeże Wyspiańskiego 27, Wrocław, 50-370, Poland
| | - Jacek Plewka
- Department of Organic Chemistry, Faculty of Chemistry, Jagiellonian University, Gronostajowa 2, Krakow, 30-387, Poland
| | - Przemyslaw Grudnik
- Malopolska Centre of Biotechnology, Jagiellonian University, Gronostajowa 7a, Krakow, 30-387, Poland
| | - Malgorzata Stec
- Department of Clinical Immunology, Institute of Pediatrics, Jagiellonian University Medical College, Wielicka 265, Krakow, 30-663, Poland
| | - Maciej Siedlar
- Department of Clinical Immunology, Institute of Pediatrics, Jagiellonian University Medical College, Wielicka 265, Krakow, 30-663, Poland
| | - Tad A Holak
- Department of Organic Chemistry, Faculty of Chemistry, Jagiellonian University, Gronostajowa 2, Krakow, 30-387, Poland
| | - Katarzyna Magiera-Mularz
- Department of Organic Chemistry, Faculty of Chemistry, Jagiellonian University, Gronostajowa 2, Krakow, 30-387, Poland.
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18
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Li X, Zeng Q, Xu F, Jiang Y, Jiang Z. Progress in programmed cell death-1/programmed cell death-ligand 1 pathway inhibitors and binding mode analysis. Mol Divers 2023; 27:1935-1955. [PMID: 35948846 DOI: 10.1007/s11030-022-10509-2] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/25/2022] [Accepted: 07/28/2022] [Indexed: 10/15/2022]
Abstract
Programmed cell death protein 1 (PD-1)/programmed cell death protein ligand 1 (PD-L1) plays an important role in negative regulating immunity. The search for effective PD-1/PD-L1 inhibitors has been at the cutting-edge of academic and industrial medicinal chemistry, leading to the emergence of 16 clinical candidate drugs and the launch of six monoclonal antibodies (mAbs) drugs. However, due to the unclear mechanism of the interaction between drugs and substances in vivo, the screening of preclinical drugs often takes a long time. In order to shorten the time of drug development as much as possible, the binding mode analysis that can simulate the interaction between drugs and substances in vivo at the molecular level can significantly shorten the drug development process. This paper reviews the mechanism of PD-1/PD-L1 signaling pathway at the molecular level, as well as the research progress and obstacles of inhibitors. Besides, we analyzed the binding mode of recently reported PD-1/PD-L1 inhibitors with PD-1 or PD-L1 protein in detail in order to provide ideas for the development of PD-1/PD-L1 inhibitors.
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Affiliation(s)
- Xiaoyun Li
- Department of Pharmacy, Chun'an County Hospital of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Hangzhou, 311700, Zhejiang, China
| | - Qin Zeng
- Laboratory of Pharmacology, Department of Pharmacology, School of Pharmacy, Sichuan University, Chengdu, 610041, Sichuan, China
| | - Fengjiao Xu
- Laboratory of Pharmacology, Department of Pharmacology, School of Pharmacy, Sichuan University, Chengdu, 610041, Sichuan, China
| | - Yuying Jiang
- Laboratory of Pharmacology, Department of Pharmacology, School of Pharmacy, Sichuan University, Chengdu, 610041, Sichuan, China
| | - Zhongmei Jiang
- Department of Pharmacy, Chun'an County Hospital of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Hangzhou, 311700, Zhejiang, China.
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19
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Ważyńska MA, Butera R, Requesens M, Plat A, Zarganes-Tzitzikas T, Neochoritis CG, Plewka J, Skalniak L, Kocik-Krol J, Musielak B, Magiera-Mularz K, Rodriguez I, Blok SN, de Bruyn M, Nijman HW, Elsinga PH, Holak TA, Dömling A. Design, Synthesis, and Biological Evaluation of 2-Hydroxy-4-phenylthiophene-3-carbonitrile as PD-L1 Antagonist and Its Comparison to Available Small Molecular PD-L1 Inhibitors. J Med Chem 2023. [PMID: 37450644 PMCID: PMC10388299 DOI: 10.1021/acs.jmedchem.3c00254] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 07/18/2023]
Abstract
In search of a potent small molecular PD-L1 inhibitor, we designed and synthesized a compound based on a 2-hydroxy-4-phenylthiophene-3-carbonitrile moiety. Ligand's performance was tested in vitro and compared side-by-side with a known PD-L1 antagonist with a proven bioactivity BMS1166. Subsequently, we modified both compounds to allow 18F labeling that could be used for PET imaging. Radiolabeling, which is used in drug development and diagnosis, was applied to investigate the properties of those ligands and test them against tissue sections with diverse expression levels of PD-L1. We confirmed biological activity toward hPD-L1 for this inhibitor, comparable with BMS1166, while holding enhanced pharmacological properties.
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Affiliation(s)
- Marta A Ważyńska
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, University Medical Center Groningen, University of Groningen, Hanzeplein 1, 9713 GZ Groningen, The Netherlands
| | - Roberto Butera
- Department of Drug Design, University of Groningen, A. Deusinglaan 1, 9713 AV Groningen, The Netherlands
| | - Marta Requesens
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, University Medical Center Groningen, University of Groningen, Hanzeplein 1, 9713 GZ Groningen, The Netherlands
| | - Annechien Plat
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, University Medical Center Groningen, University of Groningen, Hanzeplein 1, 9713 GZ Groningen, The Netherlands
| | - Tryfon Zarganes-Tzitzikas
- Centre for Medicines Discovery, Nuffield Department of Medicine, Alzheimer's Research UK Oxford Drug Discovery Institute, NDM Research Building, Roosevelt Drive, OX3 7FZ Oxford, U.K
| | | | - Jacek Plewka
- Department of Organic Chemistry, Faculty of Chemistry, Jagiellonian University, Gronostajowa 2, 30-387 Krakow, Poland
| | - Lukasz Skalniak
- Department of Organic Chemistry, Faculty of Chemistry, Jagiellonian University, Gronostajowa 2, 30-387 Krakow, Poland
| | - Justyna Kocik-Krol
- Department of Organic Chemistry, Faculty of Chemistry, Jagiellonian University, Gronostajowa 2, 30-387 Krakow, Poland
- Doctoral School of Exact and Natural Sciences, Jagiellonian University, Prof. St. Łojasiewicz St 11, 30-348 Krakow, Poland
| | - Bogdan Musielak
- Department of Organic Chemistry, Faculty of Chemistry, Jagiellonian University, Gronostajowa 2, 30-387 Krakow, Poland
| | - Katarzyna Magiera-Mularz
- Department of Organic Chemistry, Faculty of Chemistry, Jagiellonian University, Gronostajowa 2, 30-387 Krakow, Poland
| | - Ismael Rodriguez
- Department of Organic Chemistry, Faculty of Chemistry, Jagiellonian University, Gronostajowa 2, 30-387 Krakow, Poland
- Doctoral School of Exact and Natural Sciences, Jagiellonian University, Prof. St. Łojasiewicz St 11, 30-348 Krakow, Poland
| | - Simon N Blok
- Department of Nuclear Medicine and MolecularImaging, University Medical Center Groningen, University of Groningen, Hanzeplein 1, 9713 GZ Groningen, The Netherlands
| | - Marco de Bruyn
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, University Medical Center Groningen, University of Groningen, Hanzeplein 1, 9713 GZ Groningen, The Netherlands
| | - Hans W Nijman
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, University Medical Center Groningen, University of Groningen, Hanzeplein 1, 9713 GZ Groningen, The Netherlands
| | - Philip H Elsinga
- Department of Nuclear Medicine and MolecularImaging, University Medical Center Groningen, University of Groningen, Hanzeplein 1, 9713 GZ Groningen, The Netherlands
| | - Tad A Holak
- Department of Organic Chemistry, Faculty of Chemistry, Jagiellonian University, Gronostajowa 2, 30-387 Krakow, Poland
| | - Alexander Dömling
- Department of Drug Design, University of Groningen, A. Deusinglaan 1, 9713 AV Groningen, The Netherlands
- Institute of Molecular and Translational Medicine, Faculty of Medicine and Dentistry and Czech Advanced Technology and Research Institute, Palacky University in Olomouc, Olomouc 77900, Czech Republic
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20
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Vadevoo SMP, Gurung S, Lee HS, Gunassekaran GR, Lee SM, Yoon JW, Lee YK, Lee B. Peptides as multifunctional players in cancer therapy. Exp Mol Med 2023; 55:1099-1109. [PMID: 37258584 PMCID: PMC10318096 DOI: 10.1038/s12276-023-01016-x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 14] [Impact Index Per Article: 14.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/07/2023] [Revised: 03/21/2023] [Accepted: 03/24/2023] [Indexed: 06/02/2023] Open
Abstract
Peptides exhibit lower affinity and a shorter half-life in the body than antibodies. Conversely, peptides demonstrate higher efficiency in tissue penetration and cell internalization than antibodies. Regardless of the pros and cons of peptides, they have been used as tumor-homing ligands for delivering carriers (such as nanoparticles, extracellular vesicles, and cells) and cargoes (such as cytotoxic peptides and radioisotopes) to tumors. Additionally, tumor-homing peptides have been conjugated with cargoes such as small-molecule or chemotherapeutic drugs via linkers to synthesize peptide-drug conjugates. In addition, peptides selectively bind to cell surface receptors and proteins, such as immune checkpoints, receptor kinases, and hormone receptors, subsequently blocking their biological activity or serving as hormone analogs. Furthermore, peptides internalized into cells bind to intracellular proteins and interfere with protein-protein interactions. Thus, peptides demonstrate great application potential as multifunctional players in cancer therapy.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sri Murugan Poongkavithai Vadevoo
- Department of Biochemistry and Cell Biology, Kyungpook National University, 680 Gukchaebosang-ro, Jung-gu, Daegu, 41944, Republic of Korea
- Department of Biomedical Science, Kyungpook National University, 680 Gukchaebosang-ro, Jung-gu, Daegu, 41944, Republic of Korea
- Cell & Matrix Research Institute, School of Medicine, Kyungpook National University, 680 Gukchaebosang-ro, Jung-gu, Daegu, 41944, Republic of Korea
| | - Smriti Gurung
- Department of Biochemistry and Cell Biology, Kyungpook National University, 680 Gukchaebosang-ro, Jung-gu, Daegu, 41944, Republic of Korea
- Department of Biomedical Science, Kyungpook National University, 680 Gukchaebosang-ro, Jung-gu, Daegu, 41944, Republic of Korea
- Cell & Matrix Research Institute, School of Medicine, Kyungpook National University, 680 Gukchaebosang-ro, Jung-gu, Daegu, 41944, Republic of Korea
| | - Hyun-Su Lee
- Department of Physiology, Daegu Catholic University School of Medicine, 33 Duryugongwon-ro 17-gil, Nam-gu, Daegu, 42472, Republic of Korea
| | - Gowri Rangaswamy Gunassekaran
- Department of Biochemistry and Cell Biology, Kyungpook National University, 680 Gukchaebosang-ro, Jung-gu, Daegu, 41944, Republic of Korea
- Department of Biomedical Science, Kyungpook National University, 680 Gukchaebosang-ro, Jung-gu, Daegu, 41944, Republic of Korea
- Cell & Matrix Research Institute, School of Medicine, Kyungpook National University, 680 Gukchaebosang-ro, Jung-gu, Daegu, 41944, Republic of Korea
| | - Seok-Min Lee
- Department of Biochemistry and Cell Biology, Kyungpook National University, 680 Gukchaebosang-ro, Jung-gu, Daegu, 41944, Republic of Korea
- Department of Biomedical Science, Kyungpook National University, 680 Gukchaebosang-ro, Jung-gu, Daegu, 41944, Republic of Korea
- Cell & Matrix Research Institute, School of Medicine, Kyungpook National University, 680 Gukchaebosang-ro, Jung-gu, Daegu, 41944, Republic of Korea
| | - Jae-Won Yoon
- Department of Biochemistry and Cell Biology, Kyungpook National University, 680 Gukchaebosang-ro, Jung-gu, Daegu, 41944, Republic of Korea
- Department of Biomedical Science, Kyungpook National University, 680 Gukchaebosang-ro, Jung-gu, Daegu, 41944, Republic of Korea
- Cell & Matrix Research Institute, School of Medicine, Kyungpook National University, 680 Gukchaebosang-ro, Jung-gu, Daegu, 41944, Republic of Korea
| | - Yun-Ki Lee
- Department of Biochemistry and Cell Biology, Kyungpook National University, 680 Gukchaebosang-ro, Jung-gu, Daegu, 41944, Republic of Korea
- Department of Biomedical Science, Kyungpook National University, 680 Gukchaebosang-ro, Jung-gu, Daegu, 41944, Republic of Korea
- Cell & Matrix Research Institute, School of Medicine, Kyungpook National University, 680 Gukchaebosang-ro, Jung-gu, Daegu, 41944, Republic of Korea
| | - Byungheon Lee
- Department of Biochemistry and Cell Biology, Kyungpook National University, 680 Gukchaebosang-ro, Jung-gu, Daegu, 41944, Republic of Korea.
- Department of Biomedical Science, Kyungpook National University, 680 Gukchaebosang-ro, Jung-gu, Daegu, 41944, Republic of Korea.
- Cell & Matrix Research Institute, School of Medicine, Kyungpook National University, 680 Gukchaebosang-ro, Jung-gu, Daegu, 41944, Republic of Korea.
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21
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Boisgerault N, Bertrand P. Inside PD-1/PD-L1,2 with their inhibitors. Eur J Med Chem 2023; 256:115465. [PMID: 37196547 DOI: 10.1016/j.ejmech.2023.115465] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/23/2023] [Revised: 05/04/2023] [Accepted: 05/05/2023] [Indexed: 05/19/2023]
Abstract
This review summarizes current knowledge in the development of immune checkpoint inhibitors, including antibodies and small molecules.
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Affiliation(s)
- Nicolas Boisgerault
- Nantes Université, Inserm UMR 1307, CNRS UMR 6075, Université D'Angers, CRCI2NA, LabEx IGO, F-44000, Nantes, France
| | - Philippe Bertrand
- University of Poitiers, IC2MP UMR 7285 CNRS, 4 Rue Michel Brunet B27, TSA 51106, 86073 Poitiers Cedex 9, France.
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22
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Bianconi E, Riccio A, Ruta L, Bigiotti C, Carotti A, Moretti S, Cerra B, Gioiello A, Ferlin S, Puxeddu E, Macchiarulo A. Turning a Tumor Microenvironment Pitfall into Opportunity: Discovery of Benzamidoxime as PD-L1 Ligand with pH-Dependent Potency. Int J Mol Sci 2023; 24:ijms24065535. [PMID: 36982608 PMCID: PMC10054428 DOI: 10.3390/ijms24065535] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/23/2023] [Revised: 03/08/2023] [Accepted: 03/10/2023] [Indexed: 03/15/2023] Open
Abstract
PD-1/PD-L1 protein complex is attracting a great deal of interest as a drug target for the design of immune therapies able to block its assembly. Although some biologic drugs have entered clinical use, their poor response rate in patients are demanding further efforts to design small molecule inhibitors of PD-1/PD-L1 complex with higher efficacy and optimal physicochemical properties. Dysregulation of pH in the tumor microenvironment is indeed one of the key mechanisms promoting drug resistance and lack of response in cancer therapy. Integrating computational and biophysical approaches, herein we report a screening campaign that has led to identifying VIS310 as a novel ligand of PD-L1, with physicochemical properties enabling a pH-dependent binding potency. Additional optimization efforts by analogue-based screening have been instrumental to disclosing VIS1201, which exhibits improved binding potency against PD-L1 and is able to inhibit PD-1/PD-L1 complex formation in a ligand binding displacement assay. While providing preliminary structure–activity relationships (SARs) of a novel class of PD-L1 ligands, our results lay the foundation for the discovery of immunoregulatory small molecules resilient to tumor microenvironmental conditions for escaping drug-resistance mechanisms.
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Affiliation(s)
- Elisa Bianconi
- Department of Pharmaceutical Sciences, University of Perugia, Via del liceo n.1, 06123 Perugia, Italy
| | - Alessandra Riccio
- Department of Pharmaceutical Sciences, University of Perugia, Via del liceo n.1, 06123 Perugia, Italy
| | - Luana Ruta
- Department of Pharmaceutical Sciences, University of Perugia, Via del liceo n.1, 06123 Perugia, Italy
| | - Carlo Bigiotti
- Department of Pharmaceutical Sciences, University of Perugia, Via del liceo n.1, 06123 Perugia, Italy
| | - Andrea Carotti
- Department of Pharmaceutical Sciences, University of Perugia, Via del liceo n.1, 06123 Perugia, Italy
| | - Sonia Moretti
- Department of Medicine and Surgery, University of Perugia, P.le L. Severi, 06132 Perugia, Italy
| | - Bruno Cerra
- Department of Pharmaceutical Sciences, University of Perugia, Via del liceo n.1, 06123 Perugia, Italy
| | - Antimo Gioiello
- Department of Pharmaceutical Sciences, University of Perugia, Via del liceo n.1, 06123 Perugia, Italy
| | - Simone Ferlin
- Sterling S.p.A., Via della Carboneria n.30, 06073 Corciano, Italy
| | - Efisio Puxeddu
- Department of Medicine and Surgery, University of Perugia, P.le L. Severi, 06132 Perugia, Italy
| | - Antonio Macchiarulo
- Department of Pharmaceutical Sciences, University of Perugia, Via del liceo n.1, 06123 Perugia, Italy
- Correspondence: ; Tel.: +39-075-5855131
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23
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O’Boyle NM, Helesbeux JJ, Meegan MJ, Sasse A, O’Shaughnessy E, Qaisar A, Clancy A, McCarthy F, Marchand P. 30th Annual GP2A Medicinal Chemistry Conference. Pharmaceuticals (Basel) 2023; 16:ph16030432. [PMID: 36986531 PMCID: PMC10056312 DOI: 10.3390/ph16030432] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/24/2022] [Accepted: 01/16/2023] [Indexed: 03/14/2023] Open
Abstract
The Group for the Promotion of Pharmaceutical Chemistry in Academia (GP2A) held their 30th annual conference in August 2022 in Trinity College Dublin, Ireland. There were 9 keynote presentations, 10 early career researcher presentations and 41 poster presentations.
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Affiliation(s)
- Niamh M. O’Boyle
- School of Pharmacy and Pharmaceutical Sciences, Panoz Institute and Trinity Biomedical Sciences Institute, Trinity College Dublin, D02 PN40 Dublin, Ireland
- Correspondence: ; Tel.: +353-1896-2524
| | | | - Mary J. Meegan
- School of Pharmacy and Pharmaceutical Sciences, Panoz Institute and Trinity Biomedical Sciences Institute, Trinity College Dublin, D02 PN40 Dublin, Ireland
| | - Astrid Sasse
- School of Pharmacy and Pharmaceutical Sciences, Panoz Institute and Trinity Biomedical Sciences Institute, Trinity College Dublin, D02 PN40 Dublin, Ireland
| | - Elizabeth O’Shaughnessy
- School of Pharmacy and Pharmaceutical Sciences, Panoz Institute and Trinity Biomedical Sciences Institute, Trinity College Dublin, D02 PN40 Dublin, Ireland
| | - Alina Qaisar
- School of Pharmacy and Pharmaceutical Sciences, Panoz Institute and Trinity Biomedical Sciences Institute, Trinity College Dublin, D02 PN40 Dublin, Ireland
| | - Aoife Clancy
- School of Pharmacy and Pharmaceutical Sciences, Panoz Institute and Trinity Biomedical Sciences Institute, Trinity College Dublin, D02 PN40 Dublin, Ireland
| | - Florence McCarthy
- School of Chemistry and ABCRF, University College Cork, T12 K8AF Cork, Ireland
| | - Pascal Marchand
- Cibles et Médicaments des Infections et de l’Immunité, IICiMed, Nantes Université, UR 1155, F-44000 Nantes, France
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24
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Wang Q, Shao X, Zhang Y, Zhu M, Wang FXC, Mu J, Li J, Yao H, Chen K. Role of tumor microenvironment in cancer progression and therapeutic strategy. Cancer Med 2023. [PMID: 36807772 DOI: 10.1002/cam4.5698] [Citation(s) in RCA: 19] [Impact Index Per Article: 19.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/14/2022] [Revised: 01/18/2023] [Accepted: 02/02/2023] [Indexed: 02/23/2023] Open
Abstract
Cancer is now considered a tumor microenvironment (TME) disease, although it was originally thought to be a cell and gene expression disorder. Over the past 20 years, significant advances have been made in understanding the complexity of the TME and its impact on responses to various anticancer therapies, including immunotherapies. Cancer immunotherapy can recognize and kill cancer cells by regulating the body's immune system. It has achieved good therapeutic effects in various solid tumors and hematological malignancies. Recently, blocking of programmed death-1 (PD-1), programmed death-1 ligand-1 (PD-L1), and programmed death Ligand-2 (PD-L2), the construction of antigen chimeric T cells (CAR-T) and tumor vaccines have become popular immunotherapies Tumorigenesis, progression, and metastasis are closely related to TME. Therefore, we review the characteristics of various cells and molecules in the TME, the interaction between PD-1 and TME, and promising cancer immunotherapy therapeutics.
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Affiliation(s)
- Qingjing Wang
- Shulan International Medical College, Zhejiang Shuren University, Hangzhou, China
| | - Xueting Shao
- Institute of Pharmaceutical Biotechnology & Research Center for Clinical Pharmacy, The First Affiliated Hospital, School of Medicine, Zhejiang University, Hangzhou, China
| | - Yuxuan Zhang
- Shulan International Medical College, Zhejiang Shuren University, Hangzhou, China
| | - Miaojin Zhu
- State Key Laboratory for Diagnosis and Treatment of Infectious Diseases, National Clinical Research Center for Infectious Diseases, The First Affiliated Hospital, School of Medicine, Zhejiang University, Hangzhou, China
| | - Frederick X C Wang
- The EnMed Program at Houston Methodist Hospital, Texas A&M University College of Medicine and College of Engineering, Houston, Texas, USA
| | - Jianjian Mu
- Shulan International Medical College, Zhejiang Shuren University, Hangzhou, China
| | - Jiaxuan Li
- Shulan International Medical College, Zhejiang Shuren University, Hangzhou, China
| | - Hangping Yao
- State Key Laboratory for Diagnosis and Treatment of Infectious Diseases, National Clinical Research Center for Infectious Diseases, The First Affiliated Hospital, School of Medicine, Zhejiang University, Hangzhou, China
| | - Keda Chen
- Shulan International Medical College, Zhejiang Shuren University, Hangzhou, China
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25
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Wang F, Ye W, He Y, Zhong H, Zhu Y, Han J, Gong X, Tian Y, Wang Y, Wang S, Ji S, Liu H, Yao X. Identification of CBPA as a New Inhibitor of PD-1/PD-L1 Interaction. Int J Mol Sci 2023; 24:ijms24043971. [PMID: 36835382 PMCID: PMC9964281 DOI: 10.3390/ijms24043971] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/20/2022] [Revised: 12/20/2022] [Accepted: 12/27/2022] [Indexed: 02/18/2023] Open
Abstract
Targeting of the PD-1/PD-L1 immunologic checkpoint is believed to have provided a real breakthrough in the field of cancer therapy in recent years. Due to the intrinsic limitations of antibodies, the discovery of small-molecule inhibitors blocking PD-1/PD-L1 interaction has gradually opened valuable new avenues in the past decades. In an effort to discover new PD-L1 small molecular inhibitors, we carried out a structure-based virtual screening strategy to rapidly identify the candidate compounds. Ultimately, CBPA was identified as a PD-L1 inhibitor with a KD value at the micromolar level. It exhibited effective PD-1/PD-L1 blocking activity and T-cell-reinvigoration potency in cell-based assays. CBPA could dose-dependently elevate secretion levels of IFN-γ and TNF-α in primary CD4+ T cells in vitro. Notably, CBPA exhibited significant in vivo antitumor efficacy in two different mouse tumor models (a MC38 colon adenocarcinoma model and a melanoma B16F10 tumor model) without the induction of observable liver or renal toxicity. Moreover, analyses of the CBPA-treated mice further showed remarkably increased levels of tumor-infiltrating CD4+ and CD8+ T cells and cytokine secretion in the tumor microenvironment. A molecular docking study suggested that CBPA embedded relatively well into the hydrophobic cleft formed by dimeric PD-L1, occluding the PD-1 interaction surface of PD-L1. This study suggests that CBPA could work as a hit compound for the further design of potent inhibitors targeting the PD-1/PD-L1 pathway in cancer immunotherapy.
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Affiliation(s)
- Fengling Wang
- College of Chemistry and Chemical Engineering, Lanzhou University, Lanzhou 730000, China
- Henan International Joint Laboratory for Nuclear Protein Regulation, Cell Signal Transduction Laboratory, School of Basic Medical Sciences, Henan University, Kaifeng 475004, China
| | - Wenling Ye
- Henan International Joint Laboratory for Nuclear Protein Regulation, Cell Signal Transduction Laboratory, School of Basic Medical Sciences, Henan University, Kaifeng 475004, China
| | - Yongxing He
- Ministry of Education Key Laboratory of Cell Activities and Stress Adaptations, School of Life Sciences, Lanzhou University, Lanzhou 730000, China
| | - Haiyang Zhong
- College of Chemistry and Chemical Engineering, Lanzhou University, Lanzhou 730000, China
| | - Yongchang Zhu
- College of Chemistry and Chemical Engineering, Lanzhou University, Lanzhou 730000, China
| | - Jianting Han
- College of Chemistry and Chemical Engineering, Lanzhou University, Lanzhou 730000, China
| | - Xiaoqing Gong
- College of Chemistry and Chemical Engineering, Lanzhou University, Lanzhou 730000, China
| | - Yanan Tian
- Faculty of Applied Science, Macao Polytechnic University, Macao 999078, China
| | - Yuwei Wang
- College of Pharmacy, Shaanxi University of Chinese Medicine, Xianyang 712046, China
| | - Shuang Wang
- College of Chemistry and Chemical Engineering, Lanzhou University, Lanzhou 730000, China
| | - Shaoping Ji
- Henan International Joint Laboratory for Nuclear Protein Regulation, Cell Signal Transduction Laboratory, School of Basic Medical Sciences, Henan University, Kaifeng 475004, China
| | - Huanxiang Liu
- Faculty of Applied Science, Macao Polytechnic University, Macao 999078, China
- Correspondence: (H.L.); (X.Y.); Tel.: +853-8599-6874 (H.L.); +86-0931-891-2578 (X.Y.)
| | - Xiaojun Yao
- College of Chemistry and Chemical Engineering, Lanzhou University, Lanzhou 730000, China
- State Key Laboratory of Quality Research in Chinese Medicine, Macau Institute for Applied Research in Medicine and Health, Macau University of Science and Technology, Macau 999078, China
- Correspondence: (H.L.); (X.Y.); Tel.: +853-8599-6874 (H.L.); +86-0931-891-2578 (X.Y.)
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26
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DiFrancesco M, Hofer J, Aradhya A, Rufinus J, Stoddart J, Finocchiaro S, Mani J, Tevis S, Visconti M, Walawender G, DiFlumeri J, Fattakhova E, Patil SP. Discovery of small-molecule PD-1/PD-L1 antagonists through combined virtual screening and experimental validation. Comput Biol Chem 2023; 102:107804. [PMID: 36610303 DOI: 10.1016/j.compbiolchem.2022.107804] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/01/2022] [Revised: 11/17/2022] [Accepted: 12/19/2022] [Indexed: 12/29/2022]
Abstract
Inhibition of the interaction between the PD-1 protein on activated lymphocytes and the PD-L1 protein on tumors represents a novel therapeutic approach for selective activation of the innate immune response against a variety of cancers. Therefore, the present study utilized a combined virtual and experimental screening approach to screen databases of both lead-like and larger molecules for identification of novel inhibitors of PD-1/PD-L1 interaction. First, high-throughput virtual screening of ∼3.7 million lead-like molecules using a rigid-receptor docking approach against both human PD-1 and PD-L1 proteins revealed possible small-molecule tractability of PD-1, but not PD-L1, binding interface. The subsequent work, therefore, involved screening of the National Cancer Institute (NCI) compound database against the PD-1 pocket. Several NCI compounds were identified with potential to bind to the PD-1 pocket and in turn inhibit the PD-1/PD-L1 interaction. The dynamic binding behavior of these molecules was further investigated using long 100 ns molecular dynamics (MD) stimulation revealing NSC631535 to be a potentially stable binder at PD-1 interface pocket. In support of these MD data, the experimental testing of NSC631535 exhibited 50% inhibition at ∼15 μM test concentration. The observed activity of this compound is promising as despite its relatively low molecular weight (415.5 g/mol) it is still capable of inhibiting the PD-1/PD-L1 interaction having a large interface area (∼1970 Å2). In summary, our integrated computational and experimental screening led to identification of a novel PD-1 antagonist that may serve as a starting point for further optimization into more potent small-molecule PD-1/PD-L1 inhibitors for cancer immunotherapy.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Jeremy Hofer
- Department of Computer Science, Widener University, Chester, PA, USA
| | - Abhay Aradhya
- Department of Computer Science, Widener University, Chester, PA, USA
| | - Jeffrey Rufinus
- Department of Computer Science, Widener University, Chester, PA, USA
| | - John Stoddart
- Department of Computer Science, Widener University, Chester, PA, USA
| | - Stephen Finocchiaro
- NanoBio Laboratory, School of Engineering, Widener University, Chester, PA, USA
| | - Jabari Mani
- NanoBio Laboratory, School of Engineering, Widener University, Chester, PA, USA
| | - Sean Tevis
- NanoBio Laboratory, School of Engineering, Widener University, Chester, PA, USA
| | - Michael Visconti
- NanoBio Laboratory, School of Engineering, Widener University, Chester, PA, USA
| | - Griffin Walawender
- NanoBio Laboratory, School of Engineering, Widener University, Chester, PA, USA
| | - Juliette DiFlumeri
- NanoBio Laboratory, School of Engineering, Widener University, Chester, PA, USA
| | - Elena Fattakhova
- NanoBio Laboratory, School of Engineering, Widener University, Chester, PA, USA
| | - Sachin P Patil
- NanoBio Laboratory, School of Engineering, Widener University, Chester, PA, USA.
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27
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Effects of small molecule-induced dimerization on the programmed death ligand 1 protein life cycle. Sci Rep 2022; 12:21286. [PMID: 36494467 PMCID: PMC9734112 DOI: 10.1038/s41598-022-25417-6] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/28/2022] [Accepted: 11/29/2022] [Indexed: 12/13/2022] Open
Abstract
The programmed death 1 (PD-1)/programmed death ligand 1 (PD-L1) checkpoint blockade is central to Immuno-Oncology based therapies, and alternatives to antibody blockers of this interaction are an active area of research due to antibody related toxicities. Recently, small molecule compounds that induce PD-L1 dimerization and occlusion of PD-1 binding site have been identified and developed for clinical trials. This mechanism invokes an oligomeric state of PD-L1 not observed in cells previously, as PD-L1 is generally believed to function as a monomer. Therefore, understanding the cellular lifecycle of the induced PD-L1 dimer is of keen interest. Our report describes a moderate but consistent increase in the PD-L1 rate of degradation observed upon protein dimerization as compared to the monomer counterpart. This subtle change, while not resolved by measuring total PD-L1 cellular levels by western blotting, triggered investigations of the overall protein distribution across various cellular compartments. We show that PD-L1 dimerization does not lead to rapid internalization of neither transfected nor endogenously expressed protein forms. Instead, evidence is presented that dimerization results in retention of PD-L1 intracellularly, which concomitantly correlates with its reduction on the cell surface. Therefore, the obtained data for the first time points to the ability of small molecules to induce dimerization of the newly synthesized PD-L1 in addition to the protein already present on the plasma membrane. Overall, this work serves to improve our understanding of this important target on a molecular level in order to guide advances in drug development.
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28
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Sun C, Cheng Y, Liu X, Wang G, Min W, Wang X, Yuan K, Hou Y, Li J, Zhang H, Dong H, Wang L, Lou C, Sun Y, Yu X, Deng H, Xiao Y, Yang P. Novel phthalimides regulating PD-1/PD-L1 interaction as potential immunotherapy agents. Acta Pharm Sin B 2022; 12:4446-4457. [PMID: 36561991 PMCID: PMC9764071 DOI: 10.1016/j.apsb.2022.04.007] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/28/2021] [Revised: 03/30/2021] [Accepted: 04/06/2022] [Indexed: 12/25/2022] Open
Abstract
Programmed cell death 1(PD-1)/programmed cell death ligand 1(PD-L1) have emerged as one of the most promising immune checkpoint targets for cancer immunotherapy. Despite the inherent advantages of small-molecule inhibitors over antibodies, the discovery of small-molecule inhibitors has fallen behind that of antibody drugs. Based on docking studies between small molecule inhibitor and PD-L1 protein, changing the chemical linker of inhibitor from a flexible chain to an aromatic ring may improve its binding capacity to PD-L1 protein, which was not reported before. A series of novel phthalimide derivatives from structure-based rational design was synthesized. P39 was identified as the best inhibitor with promising activity, which not only inhibited PD-1/PD-L1 interaction (IC50 = 8.9 nmol/L), but also enhanced killing efficacy of immune cells on cancer cells. Co-crystal data demonstrated that P39 induced the dimerization of PD-L1 proteins, thereby blocking the binding of PD-1/PD-L1. Moreover, P39 exhibited a favorable safety profile with a LD50 > 5000 mg/kg and showed significant in vivo antitumor activity through promoting CD8+ T cell activation. All these data suggest that P39 acts as a promising small chemical inhibitor against the PD-1/PD-L1 axis and has the potential to improve the immunotherapy efficacy of T-cells.
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Affiliation(s)
- Chengliang Sun
- State Key Laboratory of Natural Medicines and Jiangsu Key Laboratory of Drug Design and Optimization, China Pharmaceutical University, Nanjing 210009, China,Department of Medicinal Chemistry, School of Pharmacy, China Pharmaceutical University, Nanjing 211198, China
| | - Yao Cheng
- State Key Laboratory of Natural Medicines and Jiangsu Key Laboratory of Drug Design and Optimization, China Pharmaceutical University, Nanjing 210009, China,Department of Pharmacology, School of Pharmacy, China Pharmaceutical University, Nanjing 211198, China
| | - Xiaojia Liu
- Beijing Institute of Clinical Pharmacy, Beijing Friendship Hospital, Capital Medical University, Beijing 100050, China
| | - Gefei Wang
- State Key Laboratory of Natural Medicines and Jiangsu Key Laboratory of Drug Design and Optimization, China Pharmaceutical University, Nanjing 210009, China,Department of Medicinal Chemistry, School of Pharmacy, China Pharmaceutical University, Nanjing 211198, China
| | - Wenjian Min
- State Key Laboratory of Natural Medicines and Jiangsu Key Laboratory of Drug Design and Optimization, China Pharmaceutical University, Nanjing 210009, China,Department of Medicinal Chemistry, School of Pharmacy, China Pharmaceutical University, Nanjing 211198, China
| | - Xiao Wang
- State Key Laboratory of Natural Medicines and Jiangsu Key Laboratory of Drug Design and Optimization, China Pharmaceutical University, Nanjing 210009, China,Department of Medicinal Chemistry, School of Pharmacy, China Pharmaceutical University, Nanjing 211198, China
| | - Kai Yuan
- State Key Laboratory of Natural Medicines and Jiangsu Key Laboratory of Drug Design and Optimization, China Pharmaceutical University, Nanjing 210009, China,Department of Medicinal Chemistry, School of Pharmacy, China Pharmaceutical University, Nanjing 211198, China
| | - Yi Hou
- State Key Laboratory of Natural Medicines and Jiangsu Key Laboratory of Drug Design and Optimization, China Pharmaceutical University, Nanjing 210009, China,Department of Medicinal Chemistry, School of Pharmacy, China Pharmaceutical University, Nanjing 211198, China
| | - Jiaxing Li
- State Key Laboratory of Natural Medicines and Jiangsu Key Laboratory of Drug Design and Optimization, China Pharmaceutical University, Nanjing 210009, China,Department of Medicinal Chemistry, School of Pharmacy, China Pharmaceutical University, Nanjing 211198, China
| | - Haolin Zhang
- State Key Laboratory of Natural Medicines and Jiangsu Key Laboratory of Drug Design and Optimization, China Pharmaceutical University, Nanjing 210009, China,Department of Medicinal Chemistry, School of Pharmacy, China Pharmaceutical University, Nanjing 211198, China
| | - Haojie Dong
- State Key Laboratory of Natural Medicines and Jiangsu Key Laboratory of Drug Design and Optimization, China Pharmaceutical University, Nanjing 210009, China,Department of Medicinal Chemistry, School of Pharmacy, China Pharmaceutical University, Nanjing 211198, China
| | - Liping Wang
- State Key Laboratory of Natural Medicines and Jiangsu Key Laboratory of Drug Design and Optimization, China Pharmaceutical University, Nanjing 210009, China,Department of Medicinal Chemistry, School of Pharmacy, China Pharmaceutical University, Nanjing 211198, China
| | - Chenguang Lou
- Department of Physics, Chemistry and Pharmacy, University of Southern Denmark, Campusvej 55, 5230 Odense, Denmark
| | - Yanze Sun
- State Key Laboratory of Natural Medicines and Jiangsu Key Laboratory of Drug Design and Optimization, China Pharmaceutical University, Nanjing 210009, China,Department of Medicinal Chemistry, School of Pharmacy, China Pharmaceutical University, Nanjing 211198, China
| | - Xinmiao Yu
- State Key Laboratory of Natural Medicines and Jiangsu Key Laboratory of Drug Design and Optimization, China Pharmaceutical University, Nanjing 210009, China,Department of Medicinal Chemistry, School of Pharmacy, China Pharmaceutical University, Nanjing 211198, China
| | - Hongbin Deng
- Institute of Medicinal Biotechnology, Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences & Peking Union Medical College, Beijing 100050, China,Corresponding authors.
| | - Yibei Xiao
- State Key Laboratory of Natural Medicines and Jiangsu Key Laboratory of Drug Design and Optimization, China Pharmaceutical University, Nanjing 210009, China,Department of Pharmacology, School of Pharmacy, China Pharmaceutical University, Nanjing 211198, China,Corresponding authors.
| | - Peng Yang
- State Key Laboratory of Natural Medicines and Jiangsu Key Laboratory of Drug Design and Optimization, China Pharmaceutical University, Nanjing 210009, China,Department of Medicinal Chemistry, School of Pharmacy, China Pharmaceutical University, Nanjing 211198, China,Corresponding authors.
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29
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Yang J, Zhu Q, Wu Y, Qu X, Liu H, Jiang B, Ge D, Song X. Utilization of macrocyclic peptides to target protein-protein interactions in cancer. Front Oncol 2022; 12:992171. [PMID: 36465350 PMCID: PMC9714258 DOI: 10.3389/fonc.2022.992171] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/12/2022] [Accepted: 10/24/2022] [Indexed: 07/30/2023] Open
Abstract
Protein-protein interactions (PPIs) play vital roles in normal cellular processes. Dysregulated PPIs are involved in the process of various diseases, including cancer. Thus, these PPIs may serve as potential therapeutic targets in cancer treatment. However, despite rapid advances in small-molecule drugs and biologics, it is still hard to target PPIs, especially for those intracellular PPIs. Macrocyclic peptides have gained growing attention for their therapeutic properties in targeting dysregulated PPIs. Macrocyclic peptides have some unique features, such as moderate sizes, high selectivity, and high binding affinities, which make them good drug candidates. In addition, some oncology macrocyclic peptide drugs have been approved by the US Food and Drug Administration (FDA) for clinical use. Here, we reviewed the recent development of macrocyclic peptides in cancer treatment. The opportunities and challenges were also discussed to inspire new perspectives.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jiawen Yang
- Department of Thoracic Surgery, Zhongshan Hospital, Fudan University, Shanghai, China
- Shanghai Institute for Advanced Immunochemical Studies, ShanghaiTech University, Shanghai, China
- Shanghai Clinical Research and Trial Center, Shanghai, China
| | - Qiaoliang Zhu
- Department of Thoracic Surgery, Zhongshan Hospital, Fudan University, Shanghai, China
| | - Yifan Wu
- Shanghai Institute for Advanced Immunochemical Studies, ShanghaiTech University, Shanghai, China
- School of Life Science and Technology, ShanghaiTech University, Shanghai, China
- University of Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing, China
| | - Xiaojuan Qu
- Shanghai Institute for Advanced Immunochemical Studies, ShanghaiTech University, Shanghai, China
- School of Life Science and Technology, ShanghaiTech University, Shanghai, China
- University of Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing, China
| | - Haixia Liu
- Shanghai Institute for Advanced Immunochemical Studies, ShanghaiTech University, Shanghai, China
- University of Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing, China
- School of Physical Science and Technology, ShanghaiTech University, Shanghai, China
| | - Biao Jiang
- Shanghai Institute for Advanced Immunochemical Studies, ShanghaiTech University, Shanghai, China
- School of Physical Science and Technology, ShanghaiTech University, Shanghai, China
| | - Di Ge
- Department of Thoracic Surgery, Zhongshan Hospital, Fudan University, Shanghai, China
| | - Xiaoling Song
- Shanghai Institute for Advanced Immunochemical Studies, ShanghaiTech University, Shanghai, China
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30
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Richaud AD, Zaghouani M, Zhao G, Wangpaichitr M, Savaraj N, Roche SP. Exploiting the Innate Plasticity of the Programmed Cell Death-1 (PD1) Receptor to Design Pembrolizumab H3 Loop Mimics. Chembiochem 2022; 23:e202200449. [PMID: 36082509 PMCID: PMC10029098 DOI: 10.1002/cbic.202200449] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/03/2022] [Revised: 09/07/2022] [Indexed: 11/08/2022]
Abstract
Checkpoint blockade of the immunoreceptor programmed cell death-1 (PD1) with its ligand-1 (PDL1) by monoclonal antibodies such as pembrolizumab provided compelling clinical results in various cancer types, yet the molecular mechanism by which this drug blocks the PD1/PDL1 interface remains unclear. To address this question, we examined the conformational motion of PD1 associated with the binding of pembrolizumab. Our results revealed that the innate plasticity of both C'D and FG loops is crucial to form a deep binding groove (371 Å3 ) across several distant epitopes of PD1. This analysis ultimately provided a rational-design to create pembrolizumab H3 loop mimics [RDYRFDMGFD] into β-hairpin scaffolds. As a result, a 20-residue long β-hairpin peptide 1 e was identified as a first-in-class potent PD1-inhibitor (EC50 of 0.29 μM; Ki of 41 nM).
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Affiliation(s)
- Alexis D Richaud
- Department of Chemistry and Biochemistry, Florida Atlantic University, Boca Raton, FL 33431, USA
| | - Mehdi Zaghouani
- Department of Chemistry and Biochemistry, Florida Atlantic University, Boca Raton, FL 33431, USA
| | - Guangkuan Zhao
- Department of Chemistry and Biochemistry, Florida Atlantic University, Boca Raton, FL 33431, USA
| | | | - Niramol Savaraj
- Miller School of Medicine, University of Miami, Miami, FL 33458, USA
| | - Stéphane P Roche
- Department of Chemistry and Biochemistry, Florida Atlantic University, Boca Raton, FL 33431, USA
- Center for Molecular Biology and Biotechnology, Florida Atlantic University, Jupiter, FL 33458, USA
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31
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Tang Z, Wang Q, Chen P, Guo H, Shi J, Pan Y, Li C, Zhou C. Computational recognition of LncRNA signatures in tumor-associated neutrophils could have implications for immunotherapy and prognostic outcome of non-small cell lung cancer. Front Genet 2022; 13:1002699. [PMID: 36386809 PMCID: PMC9649922 DOI: 10.3389/fgene.2022.1002699] [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: 07/25/2022] [Accepted: 10/18/2022] [Indexed: 12/05/2022] Open
Abstract
Cancer immune function and tumor microenvironment are governed by long noncoding RNAs (lncRNAs). Nevertheless, it has yet to be established whether lncRNAs play a role in tumor-associated neutrophils (TANs). Here, a computing framework based on machine learning was used to identify neutrophil-specific lncRNA with prognostic significance in squamous cell carcinoma and lung adenocarcinoma using univariate Cox regression to comprehensively analyze immune, lncRNA, and clinical characteristics. The risk score was determined using LASSO Cox regression analysis. Meanwhile, we named this risk score as “TANlncSig.” TANlncSig was able to distinguish between better and worse survival outcomes in various patient datasets independently of other clinical variables. Functional assessment of TANlncSig showed it is a marker of myeloid cell infiltration into tumor infiltration and myeloid cells directly or indirectly inhibit the anti-tumor immune response by secreting cytokines, expressing immunosuppressive receptors, and altering metabolic processes. Our findings highlighted the value of TANlncSig in TME as a marker of immune cell infiltration and showed the values of lncRNAs as indicators of immunotherapy.
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Affiliation(s)
- Zhuoran Tang
- Tongji University Medical School Cancer Institute, Tongji University, Shanghai, China
| | - Qi Wang
- Department of Medical Oncology, Tongji University Affiliated Shanghai Pulmonary Hospital, Tongji University Medical School Cancer Institute, Tongji University, Shanghai, China
| | - Peixin Chen
- Tongji University Medical School Cancer Institute, Tongji University, Shanghai, China
| | - Haoyue Guo
- Tongji University Medical School Cancer Institute, Tongji University, Shanghai, China
| | - Jinpeng Shi
- Tongji University Medical School Cancer Institute, Tongji University, Shanghai, China
| | - Yingying Pan
- Tongji University Medical School Cancer Institute, Tongji University, Shanghai, China
| | - Chunyu Li
- Department of Integrated Traditional Chinese and Western Medicine, International Medical School, Tianjin Medical University, Tianjin, China
- *Correspondence: Caicun Zhou, ; Chunyu Li,
| | - Caicun Zhou
- Department of Medical Oncology, Tongji University Affiliated Shanghai Pulmonary Hospital, Tongji University Medical School Cancer Institute, Tongji University, Shanghai, China
- *Correspondence: Caicun Zhou, ; Chunyu Li,
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32
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Li X, Craven TW, Levine PM. Cyclic Peptide Screening Methods for Preclinical Drug Discovery. J Med Chem 2022; 65:11913-11926. [PMID: 36074956 DOI: 10.1021/acs.jmedchem.2c01077] [Citation(s) in RCA: 12] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/28/2022]
Abstract
Cyclic peptides are among the most diverse architectures for current drug discovery efforts. Their size, stability, and ease of synthesis provide attractive scaffolds to engage and modulate some of the most challenging targets, including protein-protein interactions and those considered to be "undruggable". With a variety of sophisticated screening technologies to produce libraries of cyclic peptides, including phage display, mRNA display, split intein circular ligation of peptides, and in silico screening, a new era of cyclic peptide drug discovery is at the forefront of modern medicine. In this perspective, we begin by discussing cyclic peptides approved for clinical use in the past two decades. Particular focus is placed around synthetic chemistries to generate de novo libraries of cyclic peptides and novel methods to screen them. The perspective culminates with future prospects for generating cyclic peptides as viable therapeutic options and discusses the advantages and disadvantages currently being faced with bringing them to market.
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Affiliation(s)
- Xinting Li
- Department of Biochemistry and Institute for Protein Design, University of Washington, Seattle, Washington 98195, United States
| | - Timothy W Craven
- Department of Biochemistry and Institute for Protein Design, University of Washington, Seattle, Washington 98195, United States
| | - Paul M Levine
- Department of Biochemistry and Institute for Protein Design, University of Washington, Seattle, Washington 98195, United States
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33
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Bojko M, Węgrzyn K, Sikorska E, Kocikowski M, Parys M, Battin C, Steinberger P, Kogut MM, Winnicki M, Sieradzan AK, Spodzieja M, Rodziewicz-Motowidło S. Design, synthesis and biological evaluation of PD-1 derived peptides as inhibitors of PD-1/PD-L1 complex formation for cancer therapy. Bioorg Chem 2022; 128:106047. [DOI: 10.1016/j.bioorg.2022.106047] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/12/2022] [Revised: 07/04/2022] [Accepted: 07/19/2022] [Indexed: 12/11/2022]
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34
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Grindel BJ, Engel BJ, Ong JN, Srinivasamani A, Liang X, Zacharias NM, Bast RC, Curran MA, Takahashi TT, Roberts RW, Millward SW. Directed Evolution of PD-L1-Targeted Affibodies by mRNA Display. ACS Chem Biol 2022; 17:1543-1555. [PMID: 35611948 PMCID: PMC10691555 DOI: 10.1021/acschembio.2c00218] [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] [Indexed: 11/29/2022]
Abstract
Therapeutic monoclonal antibodies directed against PD-L1 (e.g., atezolizumab) disrupt PD-L1:PD-1 signaling and reactivate exhausted cytotoxic T-cells in the tumor compartment. Although anti-PD-L1 antibodies are successful as immune checkpoint inhibitor (ICI) therapeutics, there is still a pressing need to develop high-affinity, low-molecular-weight ligands for molecular imaging and diagnostic applications. Affibodies are small polypeptides (∼60 amino acids) that provide a stable molecular scaffold from which to evolve high-affinity ligands. Despite its proven utility in the development of imaging probes, this scaffold has never been optimized for use in mRNA display, a powerful in vitro selection platform incorporating high library diversity, unnatural amino acids, and chemical modification. In this manuscript, we describe the selection of a PD-L1-binding affibody by mRNA display. Following randomization of the 13 amino acids that define the binding interface of the well-described Her2 affibody, the resulting library was selected against recombinant human PD-L1 (hPD-L1). After four rounds, the enriched library was split and selected against either hPD-L1 or the mouse ortholog (mPD-L1). The dual target selection resulted in the identification of a human/mouse cross-reactive PD-L1 affibody (M1) with low nanomolar affinity for both targets. The M1 affibody bound with similar affinity to mPD-L1 and hPD-L1 expressed on the cell surface and inhibited signaling through the PD-L1:PD-1 axis at low micromolar concentrations in a cell-based functional assay. In vivo optical imaging with M1-Cy5 in an immune-competent mouse model of lymphoma revealed significant tumor uptake relative to a Cy5-conjugated Her2 affibody.
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Affiliation(s)
- Brian J. Grindel
- Department of Cancer Systems Imaging, MD Anderson Cancer Center, Houston, Texas, USA, 77054
| | - Brian J. Engel
- Department of Cancer Systems Imaging, MD Anderson Cancer Center, Houston, Texas, USA, 77054
| | - Justin N. Ong
- Mork Family Department of Chemical Engineering and Materials Science, University of Southern California, Los Angeles, California, USA, 90089
| | | | - Xiaowen Liang
- Department of Experimental Therapeutics, MD Anderson Cancer Center, Houston, Texas, USA, 77054
| | - Niki M. Zacharias
- Department of Urology, MD Anderson Cancer Center, Houston, Texas, USA, 77054
| | - Robert C. Bast
- Department of Experimental Therapeutics, MD Anderson Cancer Center, Houston, Texas, USA, 77054
| | - Michael A. Curran
- Department of Immunology, MD Anderson Cancer Center, Houston, Texas, USA, 77054
| | - Terry T. Takahashi
- Department of Chemistry, University of Southern California, Los Angeles, California, USA, 90089
| | - Richard W. Roberts
- Department of Chemistry, University of Southern California, Los Angeles, California, USA, 90089
- Mork Family Department of Chemical Engineering and Materials Science, University of Southern California, Los Angeles, California, USA, 90089
- USC Norris Comprehensive Cancer Center, Los Angeles, California, USA, 90089
| | - Steven W. Millward
- Department of Cancer Systems Imaging, MD Anderson Cancer Center, Houston, Texas, USA, 77054
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35
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Koblish HK, Wu L, Wang LCS, Liu PC, Wynn R, Rios-Doria J, Spitz S, Liu H, Volgina A, Zolotarjova N, Kapilashrami K, Behshad E, Covington M, Yang YO, Li J, Diamond S, Soloviev M, O'Hayer K, Rubin S, Kanellopoulou C, Yang G, Rupar M, DiMatteo D, Lin L, Stevens C, Zhang Y, Thekkat P, Geschwindt R, Marando C, Yeleswaram S, Jackson J, Scherle P, Huber R, Yao W, Hollis G. Characterization of INCB086550: A Potent and Novel Small-Molecule PD-L1 Inhibitor. Cancer Discov 2022; 12:1482-1499. [PMID: 35254416 PMCID: PMC9394386 DOI: 10.1158/2159-8290.cd-21-1156] [Citation(s) in RCA: 49] [Impact Index Per Article: 24.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/27/2021] [Revised: 12/22/2021] [Accepted: 02/28/2022] [Indexed: 01/07/2023]
Abstract
Blocking the activity of the programmed cell death protein 1 (PD-1) inhibitory receptor with therapeutic antibodies against either the ligand (PD-L1) or PD-1 itself has proven to be an effective treatment modality for multiple cancers. Contrasting with antibodies, small molecules could demonstrate increased tissue penetration, distinct pharmacology, and potentially enhanced antitumor activity. Here, we describe the identification and characterization of INCB086550, a novel, oral, small-molecule PD-L1 inhibitor. In vitro, INCB086550 selectively and potently blocked the PD-L1/PD-1 interaction, induced PD-L1 dimerization and internalization, and induced stimulation-dependent cytokine production in primary human immune cells. In vivo, INCB086550 reduced tumor growth in CD34+ humanized mice and induced T-cell activation gene signatures, consistent with PD-L1/PD-1 pathway blockade. Preliminary data from an ongoing phase I study confirmed PD-L1/PD-1 blockade in peripheral blood cells, with increased immune activation and tumor growth control. These data support continued clinical evaluation of INCB086550 as an alternative to antibody-based therapies. SIGNIFICANCE We have identified a potent small-molecule inhibitor of PD-L1, INCB086550, which has biological properties similar to PD-L1/PD-1 monoclonal antibodies and may represent an alternative to antibody therapy. Preliminary clinical data in patients demonstrated increased immune activation and tumor growth control, which support continued clinical evaluation of this approach. See related commentary by Capparelli and Aplin, p. 1413. This article is highlighted in the In This Issue feature, p. 1397.
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Affiliation(s)
| | | | | | | | | | - Jonathan Rios-Doria
- Incyte Research Institute, Wilmington, DE
- Corresponding Author: Jonathan Rios-Doria, Incyte Corporation, 1801 Augustine Cut Off, Wilmington, DE 19803. Phone: 302-498-6914; E-mail:
| | | | - Hao Liu
- Incyte Research Institute, Wilmington, DE
| | | | | | | | | | | | | | - Jingwei Li
- Incyte Research Institute, Wilmington, DE
| | | | | | | | | | | | | | - Mark Rupar
- Incyte Research Institute, Wilmington, DE
| | | | - Luping Lin
- Incyte Research Institute, Wilmington, DE
| | | | - Yue Zhang
- Incyte Research Institute, Wilmington, DE
| | | | | | | | | | | | | | - Reid Huber
- Incyte Research Institute, Wilmington, DE
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36
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Imaging of Clear Cell Renal Carcinoma with Immune Checkpoint Targeting Aptamer-Based Probe. Pharmaceuticals (Basel) 2022; 15:ph15060697. [PMID: 35745616 PMCID: PMC9229018 DOI: 10.3390/ph15060697] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/04/2022] [Revised: 05/22/2022] [Accepted: 05/23/2022] [Indexed: 12/04/2022] Open
Abstract
Immune checkpoint targeting immunotherapy has revolutionized the treatment of certain cancers in the recent years. Determination of the status of immune checkpoint expression in particular cancers may assist decision making. Here, we describe the development of a single-stranded aptamer-based molecular probe specifically recognizing human PD-L1. Target engaging aptamers are selected by iterative enrichment from a random ssDNA pool and the binding is characterized biochemically. Specificity and dose dependence is demonstrated in vitro in the cell culture using human kidney tumor cells (786-0), human melanoma cells (WM115 and WM266.4) and human glioblastoma LN18 cancer cells. The utility of the probe in vivo is demonstrated using two mouse tumor models, where we show that the probe exhibits excellent potential in imaging. We postulate that further development of the probe may allow universal imaging of different types of tumors depending on their PD-L1 status, which may find utility in cancer diagnosis.
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37
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Biphenyl Ether Analogs Containing Pomalidomide as Small-Molecule Inhibitors of the Programmed Cell Death-1/Programmed Cell Death-Ligand 1 Interaction. Molecules 2022; 27:molecules27113454. [PMID: 35684392 PMCID: PMC9181982 DOI: 10.3390/molecules27113454] [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: 04/15/2022] [Revised: 05/23/2022] [Accepted: 05/24/2022] [Indexed: 12/19/2022] Open
Abstract
New biphenyl-based chimeric compounds containing pomalidomide were developed and evaluated for their activity to inhibit and degrade the programmed cell death-1/programmed cell death- ligand 1 (PD-1/PD-L1) complex. Most of the compounds displayed excellent inhibitory activity against PD-1/PD-L1, as assessed by the homogenous time-resolved fluorescence (HTRF) binding assay. Among them, compound 3 is one of the best with an IC50 value of 60 nM. Using an ex vivo PD-1/PD-L1 blockade cell line bioassay that expresses human PD-1 and PD-L1, we show that compounds 4 and 5 significantly restore the repressed immunity in this co-culture model. Western blot data, however, demonstrated that these anti-PD-L1/pomalidomide chimeras could not reduce the protein levels of PD-L1.
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38
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Zhu X, Wang X, Li B, Zhang Y, Chen Y, Zhang W, Wang Y, Zhai W, Liu Z, Liu S, Sun J, Chen Z, Gao Y. A Three-In-One Assembled Nanoparticle Containing Peptide-Radio-Sensitizer Conjugate and TLR7/8 Agonist Can Initiate the Cancer-Immunity Cycle to Trigger Antitumor Immune Response. SMALL (WEINHEIM AN DER BERGSTRASSE, GERMANY) 2022; 18:e2107001. [PMID: 35434938 DOI: 10.1002/smll.202107001] [Citation(s) in RCA: 17] [Impact Index Per Article: 8.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/13/2021] [Revised: 03/24/2022] [Indexed: 06/14/2023]
Abstract
Radiotherapy (RT) has been shown to cause immunogenic cell death (ICD) of cancer cells, which promote the release of tumor-associated antigens, and trigger the cancer-immunity cycle (CIC). However, ICD induced by RT usually does not occur in hypoxic tumor cells due to their resistance to radiation. Moreover, RT also induces programmed death ligand 1 (PD-L1) upregulation on tumor cells, which has an inhibitory effect on T lymphocytes. Therefore, therapy based on CIC must selectively target the restricted steps of antitumor immunity. Herein, the authors design a versatile three-in-one assembling nanoparticle that can simultaneously execute these obstacles. The amphiphilic peptide drug conjugate NIA-D1, containing the hydrophobic radio-sensitizer 2-(2-nitroimidazol-1-yl) acetic acid (NIA), a peptide substrate of matrix metalloproteinase-2, and a hydrophilic PD-L1 antagonist D PPA-1, is constructed and co-assembled with hydrophobic Toll-like receptor (TLR) 7/8 agonist R848 to form nanoparticle NIA-D1@R848. The NIA-D1@R848 nanoparticles combined with RT can trigger the apoptosis of tumor cells and initiate the CIC. In the presence of R848, it promotes the maturation of dendritic cells, which together with protein programmed cell death protein 1 (PD-1) and its ligand PD-L1 blockade to relieve T cell suppression, and amplify the antitumor immune cycle. In conclusion, a functionalized three-in-one nanoparticle NIA-D1@R848 is successfully constructed, which can induce strong systemic antitumor immune response.
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Affiliation(s)
- Xueqin Zhu
- School of Life Sciences, Zhengzhou University, Zhengzhou, 450001, China
| | - Xiaoxi Wang
- School of Life Sciences, Zhengzhou University, Zhengzhou, 450001, China
| | - Bingyu Li
- School of Life Sciences, Zhengzhou University, Zhengzhou, 450001, China
| | - Yun Zhang
- School of Life Sciences, Zhengzhou University, Zhengzhou, 450001, China
| | - Yalan Chen
- School of Life Sciences, Zhengzhou University, Zhengzhou, 450001, China
| | - Wenyan Zhang
- School of Life Sciences, Zhengzhou University, Zhengzhou, 450001, China
| | - Yan Wang
- School of Life Sciences, Zhengzhou University, Zhengzhou, 450001, China
| | - Wenjie Zhai
- School of Life Sciences, Zhengzhou University, Zhengzhou, 450001, China
- Henan Key Laboratory of Bioactive Macromolecules, Zhengzhou University, Zhengzhou, 450001, China
- International Joint Laboratory for Protein and Peptide Drugs of Henan Province, Zhengzhou University, Zhengzhou, 450001, China
| | - Zimai Liu
- School of Life Sciences, Zhengzhou University, Zhengzhou, 450001, China
| | - Sijia Liu
- School of Life Sciences, Zhengzhou University, Zhengzhou, 450001, China
| | - Jiaxin Sun
- School of Life Sciences, Zhengzhou University, Zhengzhou, 450001, China
| | - Zhenzhen Chen
- School of Life Sciences, Zhengzhou University, Zhengzhou, 450001, China
- Henan Key Laboratory of Bioactive Macromolecules, Zhengzhou University, Zhengzhou, 450001, China
- International Joint Laboratory for Protein and Peptide Drugs of Henan Province, Zhengzhou University, Zhengzhou, 450001, China
| | - Yanfeng Gao
- School of Life Sciences, Zhengzhou University, Zhengzhou, 450001, China
- School of Pharmaceutical Sciences (Shenzhen), Sun Yat-sen University, Shenzhen, 518107, China
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Sun P, Han Y, Hu K, Huang S, Wang M, Zhou K, Fu L, Chen H, Tang G. Synthesis and biological evaluation of Al[18F]-NOTA-IPB-PDL1P as a molecular probe for PET imaging of PD-L1 positive tumors. Bioorg Chem 2022; 122:105682. [DOI: 10.1016/j.bioorg.2022.105682] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/12/2021] [Revised: 02/07/2022] [Accepted: 02/09/2022] [Indexed: 11/02/2022]
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40
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Jouini N, Cardinale J, Mindt TL. Evaluation of a Radiolabelled Macrocyclic Peptide as Potential PET Imaging Probe for PD-L1. ChemMedChem 2022; 17:e202200091. [PMID: 35388635 PMCID: PMC9320808 DOI: 10.1002/cmdc.202200091] [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: 02/17/2022] [Indexed: 11/16/2022]
Abstract
The interaction between the immune checkpoint PD‐1 and PD−L1 promotes T‐cell deactivation and cancer proliferation. Therefore, immune checkpoint inhibition therapy, which relies on prior assessment of the target, has been widely used for many cancers. As a non‐invasive molecular imaging tool, radiotracers bring novel information on the in vivo expression of biomarkers (e. g., PD−L1), enabling a personalized treatment of patients. Our work aimed at the development of a PD−L1‐specific, peptide‐based PET radiotracer. We synthesized and evaluated a radiolabeled macrocyclic peptide adapted from a patent by Bristol Myers Squibb. Synthesis of [68Ga]Ga‐NJMP1 yielded a product with a radiochemical purity>95 % that was evaluated in vitro. However, experiments on CHO−K1 hPD−L1 cells showed very low cell binding and internalization rates of [68Ga]Ga‐NJMP1 in comparison to a control radiopeptide (WL12). Non‐radioactive cellular assays using time‐resolved fluorescence energy transfer confirmed the low affinity of the reported parent peptide and the DOTA‐derivatives towards PD−L1. The results of our studies indicate that the macrocyclic peptide scaffold reported in the patent literature is not suitable for radiotracer development due to insufficient affinity towards PD−L1 and that C‐terminal modifications of the macrocyclic peptide interfere with important ligand/receptor interactions.
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Affiliation(s)
- Nedra Jouini
- Ludwig Boltzmann Institute Applied Diagnostics, Imaging Biomarkers, AUSTRIA
| | - Jens Cardinale
- Ludwig Boltzmann Institute Applied Diagnostics, Imaging Biomarker, AUSTRIA
| | - Thomas L Mindt
- Ludwig Boltzmann Institute Applied Diagnostics, Imaging Biomarker, Währinger Gürtel 18-20, AKH, c/o Sekretariat Nuklearmedizin, 1090, Vienna, AUSTRIA
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Wang T, Cai S, Cheng Y, Zhang W, Wang M, Sun H, Guo B, Li Z, Xiao Y, Jiang S. Discovery of Small-Molecule Inhibitors of the PD-1/PD-L1 Axis That Promote PD-L1 Internalization and Degradation. J Med Chem 2022; 65:3879-3893. [PMID: 35188766 DOI: 10.1021/acs.jmedchem.1c01682] [Citation(s) in RCA: 50] [Impact Index Per Article: 25.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/22/2023]
Abstract
Several monoclonal antibodies targeting the programmed cell death-1/programmed cell death-ligand 1 (PD-1/PD-L1) pathway have been used successfully in anticancer immunotherapy. Inherent limitations of antibody-based therapies remain, however, and alternative small-molecule inhibitors that can block the PD-1/PD-L1 axis are urgent needed. Herein, we report the discovery of compound 17 as a bifunctional inhibitor of PD-1/PD-L1 interactions. 17 inhibits PD-1/PD-L1 interactions and promotes dimerization, internalization, and degradation of PD-L1. 17 promotes cell-surface PD-L1 internalized into the cytosol and induces the degradation of PD-L1 in tumor cells through a lysosome-dependent pathway. Furthermore, 17 suppresses tumor growth in vivo by activating antitumor immunity. These results demonstrate that 17 targets the PD-1/PD-L1 axis and induces PD-L1 degradation.
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Affiliation(s)
- Tianyu Wang
- State Key Laboratory of Natural Medicines and Department of Medicinal Chemistry, School of Pharmacy, China Pharmaceutical University, Nanjing 210009, China
| | - Shi Cai
- State Key Laboratory of Natural Medicines and Department of Medicinal Chemistry, School of Pharmacy, China Pharmaceutical University, Nanjing 210009, China
| | - Yao Cheng
- State Key Laboratory of Natural Medicines and Department of Medicinal Chemistry, School of Pharmacy, China Pharmaceutical University, Nanjing 210009, China
| | - Wanheng Zhang
- State Key Laboratory of Natural Medicines and Department of Medicinal Chemistry, School of Pharmacy, China Pharmaceutical University, Nanjing 210009, China
| | - Minmin Wang
- State Key Laboratory of Natural Medicines and Department of Medicinal Chemistry, School of Pharmacy, China Pharmaceutical University, Nanjing 210009, China
| | - Huiyong Sun
- State Key Laboratory of Natural Medicines and Department of Medicinal Chemistry, School of Pharmacy, China Pharmaceutical University, Nanjing 210009, China
| | - Binghua Guo
- Syntron Company, Ltd., Yanchen 224500, China
| | - Zheng Li
- Center for Bioenergetics, Houston Methodist Research Institute, 6670 Bertner, Houston, Texas 77030, United States
| | - Yibei Xiao
- State Key Laboratory of Natural Medicines and Department of Medicinal Chemistry, School of Pharmacy, China Pharmaceutical University, Nanjing 210009, China
| | - Sheng Jiang
- State Key Laboratory of Natural Medicines and Department of Medicinal Chemistry, School of Pharmacy, China Pharmaceutical University, Nanjing 210009, China
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Anaya-Ruiz M, Perez-Santos M. Small-molecule inhibitor PD-1/PD-L1 interaction for colorectal cancer treatment. Pharm Pat Anal 2021; 10:245-250. [PMID: 34875853 DOI: 10.4155/ppa-2021-0016] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/17/2022]
Abstract
Inhibition of the PD-1/PD-L1 pathway is a target for the development of new therapies. US10710986 patent describes a small molecule that targets PDL-1/PD-1 interactions and triggers antitumor activity against colorectal cancer. However, it does not describe biological assays that allow us to suppose that this small molecule may be active in other types of cancer. So far, there are no reports of clinical trials to evaluate the safety, toxicity and efficacy, but it will be of great interest to analyze in the future if this compound surpasses the action of therapy in cancer.
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Affiliation(s)
- Maricruz Anaya-Ruiz
- Laboratorio de Biología Celular, Centro de Investigación Biomédica de Oriente, Instituto Mexicano del Seguro Social, Metepec, Puebla, CP 74360, México
| | - Martin Perez-Santos
- Dirección de Innovación y Transferencia de Conocimiento, Benemérita Universidad Autónoma de Puebla, Puebla, CP 72570, México
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43
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Helesbeux JJ, Carro L, McCarthy FO, Moreira VM, Giuntini F, O’Boyle N, Matthews SE, Bayraktar G, Bertrand S, Rochais C, Marchand P. 29th Annual GP2A Medicinal Chemistry Conference. Pharmaceuticals (Basel) 2021; 14:ph14121278. [PMID: 34959677 PMCID: PMC8708472 DOI: 10.3390/ph14121278] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/12/2021] [Accepted: 11/18/2021] [Indexed: 11/16/2022] Open
Abstract
The 29th Annual GP2A (Group for the Promotion of Pharmaceutical chemistry in Academia) Conference was a virtual event this year due to the COVID-19 pandemic and spanned three days from Wednesday 25 to Friday 27 August 2021. The meeting brought together an international delegation of researchers with interests in medicinal chemistry and interfacing disciplines. Abstracts of keynote lectures given by the 10 invited speakers, along with those of the 8 young researcher talks and the 50 flash presentation posters, are included in this report. Like previous editions, the conference was a real success, with high-level scientific discussions on cutting-edge advances in the fields of pharmaceutical chemistry.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Laura Carro
- School of Pharmacy, University College London, London WC1N 1AX, UK;
| | - Florence O. McCarthy
- School of Chemistry, Analytical and Biological Chemistry Research Facility, University College Cork, College Road, T12 K8AF Cork, Ireland;
| | - Vânia M. Moreira
- Laboratory of Pharmaceutical Chemistry, Faculty of Pharmacy, University of Coimbra, Pólo das Ciências da Saúde, Azinhaga de Santa Comba, 3000-548 Coimbra, Portugal;
- Center for Neuroscience and Cell Biology, Faculty of Medicine, University of Coimbra, Rua Larga, 3004-504 Coimbra, Portugal
| | - Francesca Giuntini
- School of Pharmacy and Biomolecular Sciences, Byrom Street Campus, Liverpool John Moores University, Liverpool L3 3AF, UK;
| | - Niamh O’Boyle
- School of Pharmacy and Pharmaceutical Sciences, Panoz Institute, Trinity College Dublin, D02 R590 Dublin, Ireland;
| | - Susan E. Matthews
- School of Pharmacy, University of East Anglia, Norwich Research Park, Norwich NR4 7TJ, UK;
| | - Gülşah Bayraktar
- Department of Pharmaceutical Chemistry, Faculty of Pharmacy, Ege University, Izmir 35100, Turkey;
| | - Samuel Bertrand
- Institut des Substances et Organismes de la Mer, ISOmer, Nantes Université, UR 2160, F-44000 Nantes, France;
| | - Christophe Rochais
- UNICAEN, CERMN (Centre d’Etudes et de Recherche sur le Médicament de Normandie), Normandie Univ., F-14032 Caen, France;
| | - Pascal Marchand
- Cibles et Médicaments des Infections et du Cancer, IICiMed, Nantes Université, UR 1155, F-44000 Nantes, France
- Correspondence: ; Tel.: +33-253-009-155
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44
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Mittal L, Tonk RK, Awasthi A, Asthana S. Targeting cryptic-orthosteric site of PD-L1 for inhibitor identification using structure-guided approach. Arch Biochem Biophys 2021; 713:109059. [PMID: 34673001 DOI: 10.1016/j.abb.2021.109059] [Citation(s) in RCA: 12] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/17/2021] [Revised: 09/30/2021] [Accepted: 10/10/2021] [Indexed: 12/23/2022]
Abstract
Approved mAbs that block the protein-protein interaction (PPI) interface of the PD-1/PD-L1 immune checkpoint axis have led to significant improvements in cancer treatment. Despite having drawbacks of mAbs only few a compounds are reported till date against this axis. Inhibiting PPIs using small molecules has emerged as a significant therapeutic opportunity, demanding for the identification of drug-like molecules at an accelerated pace under the hit-to-lead campaigns. Due to the PD-L1's cross-talk with PD-1/CD80 and its overexpression on cancer cells, as well as the availability of its crystal structures with small molecules, it is an enticing therapeutic target for structure-assisted small molecule design. Furthermore, the selection of chemical databases enriched with focused designing for PPI interfaces is crucial. Therefore, in this study we have utilized the Asinex signature library for structure-assisted virtual screening to find the potential PD-L1 inhibitors by targeting the cryptic PD-L1 interface, followed by induced fit docking for pose refinements in the pocket. The obtained hits were then subjected to interaction fingerprinting and ligand-based drug-likeness investigations in order to evaluate and analyze their drug-like qualities (ADME). Twelve compounds qualified for molecular dynamics simulations, followed by thermodynamic calculations for evaluation of their stability and energetics inside the pocket. Two novel compounds with different chemical moieties have been identified that are consistent throughout the simulation, mimicking the interactions and binding energies with BMS-1166. These compounds appear as potential therapeutic candidates to be explored experimentally, thereby paving the way for the development of novel leads as immunomodulators.
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Affiliation(s)
- Lovika Mittal
- Translational Health Science and Technology Institute (THSTI), Faridabad, Haryana, India; Delhi Pharmaceutical Sciences and Research University (DPSRU), New Delhi, India
| | - Rajiv K Tonk
- Delhi Pharmaceutical Sciences and Research University (DPSRU), New Delhi, India
| | - Amit Awasthi
- Translational Health Science and Technology Institute (THSTI), Faridabad, Haryana, India
| | - Shailendra Asthana
- Translational Health Science and Technology Institute (THSTI), Faridabad, Haryana, India.
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45
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Vergoten G, Bailly C. Molecular docking study of britannin binding to PD-L1 and related anticancer pseudoguaianolide sesquiterpene lactones. J Recept Signal Transduct Res 2021; 42:454-461. [PMID: 34789056 DOI: 10.1080/10799893.2021.2003816] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/19/2022]
Abstract
The pseudoguaianolide-type sesquiterpene lactone (SL) britannin (BRT), found in different Inula species, has been characterized as a potent anticancer agent acting via modulation of the transcription factor NFkB and the Nrf2-Keap1 signaling pathway. In addition, a BRT-induced down-regulation of the immune checkpoint PD-L1 (programmed cell death ligand 1) expressed on cancer cells has been evidenced. Here we have performed a docking analysis of the direct binding of BRT to the PD-L1 protein, both in its monomeric and dimeric state. BRT appears to form stable complexes with PD-L1, with a preference for the dimeric form, binding at the interface of the two monomers. The calculated empirical energy of interaction (ΔE) value reaches -63.1 kcal/mol for the BRT-PD-L1 dimer complex, not far from the value calculated with the reference PD-L1 ligand BMS-202 (ΔE = -73.4 kcal/mol) under identical conditions. We also studied the potential PD-L1 dimer binding of 15 pseudoguaianolide sesquiterpene lactones analogues to BRT, including helenalin, gaillardin, bigelovin, coronopilin, and others. The docking analysis predicted that the SL chamissonolide (CHM) can also form equally stable complexes with PD-L1 dimer (ΔE = -64.8 kcal/mol). Preliminary compound structure-PD-L1 binding relationships have been delineated. This computational study supports the proposed interaction of BRT with PD-L1 and provides a guidance to the design of novel PD-L1 binders incorporating a SL-like tricyclic core unit.
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Affiliation(s)
- Gérard Vergoten
- University of Lille, Inserm, INFINITE - U1286, Institut de Chimie Pharmaceutique Albert Lespagnol (ICPAL), Faculté de Pharmacie, Lille, France
| | - Christian Bailly
- OncoWitan, Scientific Consulting Office, Lille (Wasquehal), France
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Russomanno P, Assoni G, Amato J, D'Amore VM, Scaglia R, Brancaccio D, Pedrini M, Polcaro G, La Pietra V, Orlando P, Falzoni M, Cerofolini L, Giuntini S, Fragai M, Pagano B, Donati G, Novellino E, Quintavalle C, Condorelli G, Sabbatino F, Seneci P, Arosio D, Pepe S, Marinelli L. Interfering with the Tumor-Immune Interface: Making Way for Triazine-Based Small Molecules as Novel PD-L1 Inhibitors. J Med Chem 2021; 64:16020-16045. [PMID: 34670084 DOI: 10.1021/acs.jmedchem.1c01409] [Citation(s) in RCA: 12] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/27/2022]
Abstract
The inhibition of the PD-1/PD-L1 axis by monoclonal antibodies has achieved remarkable success in treating a growing number of cancers. However, a novel class of small organic molecules, with BMS-202 (1) as the lead, is emerging as direct PD-L1 inhibitors. Herein, we report a series of 2,4,6-tri- and 2,4-disubstituted 1,3,5-triazines, which were synthesized and assayed for their PD-L1 binding by NMR and homogeneous time-resolved fluorescence. Among them, compound 10 demonstrated to strongly bind with the PD-L1 protein and challenged it in a co-culture of PD-L1 expressing cancer cells (PC9 and HCC827 cells) and peripheral blood mononuclear cells enhanced antitumor immune activity of the latter. Compound 10 significantly increased interferon γ release and apoptotic induction of cancer cells, with low cytotoxicity in healthy cells when compared to 1, thus paving the way for subsequent preclinical optimization and medical applications.
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Affiliation(s)
- Pasquale Russomanno
- Dipartimento di Farmacia, Università degli Studi di Napoli Federico II, Via D. Montesano 49, Napoli 80131, Italy
| | - Giulia Assoni
- Department of Cellular, Computational and Integrative Biology, (CIBIO), Università degli Studi di Trento, Via Sommarive 9, Povo I-38123, Trento, Italy.,Chemistry Department, Università degli Studi di Milano, Via C. Golgi 19, Milan 20133, Italy
| | - Jussara Amato
- Dipartimento di Farmacia, Università degli Studi di Napoli Federico II, Via D. Montesano 49, Napoli 80131, Italy
| | - Vincenzo Maria D'Amore
- Dipartimento di Farmacia, Università degli Studi di Napoli Federico II, Via D. Montesano 49, Napoli 80131, Italy
| | - Riccardo Scaglia
- Chemistry Department, Università degli Studi di Milano, Via C. Golgi 19, Milan 20133, Italy
| | - Diego Brancaccio
- Dipartimento di Farmacia, Università degli Studi di Napoli Federico II, Via D. Montesano 49, Napoli 80131, Italy
| | - Martina Pedrini
- Chemistry Department, Università degli Studi di Milano, Via C. Golgi 19, Milan 20133, Italy
| | - Giovanna Polcaro
- Dipartimento di Medicina e Chirurgia, Ospedale "San Giovanni di Dio e Ruggi d'Aragona", Università di Salerno, Salerno 84131, Italy
| | - Valeria La Pietra
- Dipartimento di Farmacia, Università degli Studi di Napoli Federico II, Via D. Montesano 49, Napoli 80131, Italy
| | - Paolo Orlando
- Chemistry Department, Università degli Studi di Milano, Via C. Golgi 19, Milan 20133, Italy
| | - Marianna Falzoni
- Chemistry Department, Università degli Studi di Milano, Via C. Golgi 19, Milan 20133, Italy
| | - Linda Cerofolini
- Centro di Risonanza Magnetica, CERM, Università di Firenze, Firenze 50019, Italy
| | - Stefano Giuntini
- Centro di Risonanza Magnetica, CERM, Università di Firenze, Firenze 50019, Italy
| | - Marco Fragai
- Centro di Risonanza Magnetica, CERM, Università di Firenze, Firenze 50019, Italy
| | - Bruno Pagano
- Dipartimento di Farmacia, Università degli Studi di Napoli Federico II, Via D. Montesano 49, Napoli 80131, Italy
| | - Greta Donati
- Dipartimento di Farmacia, Università degli Studi di Napoli Federico II, Via D. Montesano 49, Napoli 80131, Italy
| | | | - Cristina Quintavalle
- Department of Molecular Medicine and Medical Biotechnology, "Federico II" University, Naples, Italy; Institute for Experimental Endocrinology and Oncology (IEOS), National Research Council (CNR), Naples 80131, Italy
| | - Gerolama Condorelli
- Department of Molecular Medicine and Medical Biotechnology, "Federico II" University, Naples, Italy; Institute for Experimental Endocrinology and Oncology (IEOS), National Research Council (CNR), Naples 80131, Italy.,Department of Molecular Medicine and Medical Biotechnology, "Federico II" University, Naples 80131, Italy
| | - Francesco Sabbatino
- Dipartimento di Medicina e Chirurgia, Ospedale "San Giovanni di Dio e Ruggi d'Aragona", Università di Salerno, Salerno 84131, Italy
| | - Pierfausto Seneci
- Chemistry Department, Università degli Studi di Milano, Via C. Golgi 19, Milan 20133, Italy
| | - Daniela Arosio
- Istituto di Scienze e Tecnologie Chimiche "Giulio Natta" (SCITEC), Consiglio Nazionale delle Ricerche (CNR), Via C. Golgi 19, Milan 20133, Italy
| | - Stefano Pepe
- Dipartimento di Medicina e Chirurgia, Ospedale "San Giovanni di Dio e Ruggi d'Aragona", Università di Salerno, Salerno 84131, Italy
| | - Luciana Marinelli
- Dipartimento di Farmacia, Università degli Studi di Napoli Federico II, Via D. Montesano 49, Napoli 80131, Italy
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Yin H, Zhou X, Huang YH, King GJ, Collins BM, Gao Y, Craik DJ, Wang CK. Rational Design of Potent Peptide Inhibitors of the PD-1:PD-L1 Interaction for Cancer Immunotherapy. J Am Chem Soc 2021; 143:18536-18547. [PMID: 34661406 DOI: 10.1021/jacs.1c08132] [Citation(s) in RCA: 17] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/28/2022]
Abstract
Peptides have potential to be developed into immune checkpoint inhibitors, but the target interfaces are difficult to inhibit. Here, we explored an approach to mimic the binding surface of PD-1 to design inhibitors. Mimicking native PD-1 resulted in a mimetic with no activity. However, mimicking an affinity-optimized PD-1 resulted in the peptide mimetic MOPD-1 that displayed nanomolar affinity to PD-L1 and could inhibit PD-1:PD-L1 interactions in both protein- and cell-based assays. Mutagenesis and structural characterization using NMR spectroscopy and X-ray crystallography revealed that binding residues from the high affinity PD-1 are crucial for the bioactivity of MOPD-1. Furthermore, MOPD-1 was extremely stable in human serum and inhibited tumor growth in vivo, suggesting it has potential for use in cancer immunotherapy. The successful design of an inhibitor of PD-1:PD-L1 using the mimicry approach described herein illustrates the value of placing greater emphasis on optimizing the target interface before inhibitor design and is an approach that could have broader utility for the design of peptide inhibitors for other complex protein-protein interactions.
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Affiliation(s)
- Huawu Yin
- Institute for Molecular Bioscience, The University of Queensland, Brisbane, Queensland 4072, Australia.,Australian Research Council Centre of Excellence for Innovations in Peptide and Protein Science, The University of Queensland, Brisbane, Queensland 4072, Australia
| | - Xiuman Zhou
- School of Life Sciences, Zhengzhou University, Zhengzhou, Henan 450001, China
| | - Yen-Hua Huang
- Institute for Molecular Bioscience, The University of Queensland, Brisbane, Queensland 4072, Australia.,Australian Research Council Centre of Excellence for Innovations in Peptide and Protein Science, The University of Queensland, Brisbane, Queensland 4072, Australia
| | - Gordon J King
- Centre for Microscopy and Microanalysis, The University of Queensland, Brisbane, Queensland 4072, Australia
| | - Brett M Collins
- Institute for Molecular Bioscience, The University of Queensland, Brisbane, Queensland 4072, Australia
| | - Yanfeng Gao
- School of Life Sciences, Zhengzhou University, Zhengzhou, Henan 450001, China.,School of Pharmaceutical Sciences (Shenzhen), Sun Yat-sen University, Shenzhen 518107, China
| | - David J Craik
- Institute for Molecular Bioscience, The University of Queensland, Brisbane, Queensland 4072, Australia.,Australian Research Council Centre of Excellence for Innovations in Peptide and Protein Science, The University of Queensland, Brisbane, Queensland 4072, Australia
| | - Conan K Wang
- Institute for Molecular Bioscience, The University of Queensland, Brisbane, Queensland 4072, Australia.,Australian Research Council Centre of Excellence for Innovations in Peptide and Protein Science, The University of Queensland, Brisbane, Queensland 4072, Australia
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48
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Surmiak E, Magiera-Mularz K, Musielak B, Muszak D, Kocik-Krol J, Kitel R, Plewka J, Holak TA, Skalniak L. PD-L1 Inhibitors: Different Classes, Activities, and Mechanisms of Action. Int J Mol Sci 2021; 22:ijms222111797. [PMID: 34769226 PMCID: PMC8583776 DOI: 10.3390/ijms222111797] [Citation(s) in RCA: 15] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/03/2021] [Revised: 10/24/2021] [Accepted: 10/26/2021] [Indexed: 01/02/2023] Open
Abstract
Targeting the programmed cell death protein 1/programmed cell death 1 ligand 1 (PD-1/PD-L1) interaction has become an established strategy for cancer immunotherapy. Although hundreds of small-molecule, peptide, and peptidomimetic inhibitors have been proposed in recent years, only a limited number of drug candidates show good PD-1/PD-L1 blocking activity in cell-based assays. In this article, we compare representative molecules from different classes in terms of their PD-1/PD-L1 dissociation capacity measured by HTRF and in vitro bioactivity determined by the immune checkpoint blockade (ICB) co-culture assay. We point to recent discoveries that underscore important differences in the mechanisms of action of these molecules and also indicate one principal feature that needs to be considered, which is the eventual human PD-L1 specificity.
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Ozono H, Ishikawa T. Visualization of the Interfacial Electrostatic Complementarity: A Method for Analysis of Protein-Protein Interaction Based on Ab Initio Quantum Chemical Calculations. J Chem Theory Comput 2021; 17:5600-5610. [PMID: 34432447 DOI: 10.1021/acs.jctc.1c00475] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/30/2022]
Abstract
In this study, we report a method for analyzing the protein-protein interaction based on ab initio quantum chemical calculations, which we refer to as "Visualization of the interfacial electrostatic complementarity (VIINEC)." This method visually provides the electrostatic complementarity at the protein-protein interface; in addition, the ratio of the attractive interaction is calculated. Illustrative calculations revealed that VIINEC could successfully quantify the electronic induced fit owing complex formation, which was responsible for 5%-10% of the total electrostatic complementarity. Furthermore, the contribution of each amino acid to the electrostatic complementarity was evaluated, providing useful information for various applications, including rational antibody designs. Interestingly, a part of the mechanism causing the specificity of the protein-protein bindings was also demonstrated using VIINEC. This is an important achievement of this study because the specificity of the biomolecular interactions is essential for biological functions.
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Affiliation(s)
- Hiroki Ozono
- Department of Chemistry, Biotechnology, and Chemical Engineering, Graduate School of Science and Engineering, Kagoshima University, 1-21-40 Korimoto, Kagoshima, Kagoshima 890-0065, Japan
| | - Takeshi Ishikawa
- Department of Chemistry, Biotechnology, and Chemical Engineering, Graduate School of Science and Engineering, Kagoshima University, 1-21-40 Korimoto, Kagoshima, Kagoshima 890-0065, Japan
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