1
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Hurrish KH, Su Y, Patel S, Ramage CL, Zhao J, Temby BR, Carter JL, Edwards H, Buck SA, Wiley SE, Hüttemann M, Polin L, Kushner J, Dzinic SH, White K, Bao X, Li J, Yang J, Boerner J, Hou Z, Al-Atrash G, Konoplev SN, Busquets J, Tiziani S, Matherly LH, Taub JW, Konopleva M, Ge Y, Baran N. Enhancing anti-AML activity of venetoclax by isoflavone ME-344 through suppression of OXPHOS and/or purine biosynthesis in vitro. Biochem Pharmacol 2024; 220:115981. [PMID: 38081370 PMCID: PMC11149698 DOI: 10.1016/j.bcp.2023.115981] [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: 09/29/2023] [Revised: 11/16/2023] [Accepted: 12/08/2023] [Indexed: 12/17/2023]
Abstract
Venetoclax (VEN), in combination with low dose cytarabine (AraC) or a hypomethylating agent, is FDA approved to treat acute myeloid leukemia (AML) in patients who are over the age of 75 or cannot tolerate standard chemotherapy. Despite high response rates to these therapies, most patients succumb to the disease due to relapse and/or drug resistance, providing an unmet clinical need for novel therapies to improve AML patient survival. ME-344 is a potent isoflavone with demonstrated inhibitory activity toward oxidative phosphorylation (OXPHOS) and clinical activity in solid tumors. Given that OXPHOS inhibition enhances VEN antileukemic activity against AML, we hypothesized that ME-344 could enhance the anti-AML activity of VEN. Here we report that ME-344 enhanced VEN to target AML cell lines and primary patient samples while sparing normal hematopoietic cells. Cooperative suppression of OXPHOS was detected in a subset of AML cell lines and primary patient samples. Metabolomics analysis revealed a significant reduction of purine biosynthesis metabolites by ME-344. Further, lometrexol, a purine biosynthesis inhibitor, synergistically enhanced VEN-induced apoptosis in AML cell lines. Interestingly, AML cells with acquired AraC resistance showed significantly increased purine biosynthesis metabolites and sensitivities to ME-344. Furthermore, synergy between ME-344 and VEN was preserved in these AraC-resistant AML cells. In vivo studies revealed significantly prolonged survival upon combination therapy of ME-344 and VEN in NSGS mice bearing parental or AraC-resistant MV4-11 leukemia compared to the vehicle control. This study demonstrates that ME-344 enhances VEN antileukemic activity against preclinical models of AML by suppressing OXPHOS and/or purine biosynthesis.
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Affiliation(s)
- Katie H Hurrish
- Cancer Biology Graduate Program, Wayne State University School of Medicine, Detroit, MI, USA
| | - Yongwei Su
- Department of Oncology, Wayne State University School of Medicine, Detroit, MI, USA; Molecular Therapeutics Program, Barbara Ann Karmanos Cancer Institute, Wayne State University School of Medicine, Detroit, MI, USA
| | - Shraddha Patel
- Department of Leukemia, The University of Texas MD Anderson Cancer Center, Houston, TX, USA
| | - Cassandra L Ramage
- Department of Leukemia, The University of Texas MD Anderson Cancer Center, Houston, TX, USA
| | - Jianlei Zhao
- Department of Oncology, Wayne State University School of Medicine, Detroit, MI, USA; Molecular Therapeutics Program, Barbara Ann Karmanos Cancer Institute, Wayne State University School of Medicine, Detroit, MI, USA
| | - Brianna R Temby
- Cancer Biology Graduate Program, Wayne State University School of Medicine, Detroit, MI, USA
| | - Jenna L Carter
- Cancer Biology Graduate Program, Wayne State University School of Medicine, Detroit, MI, USA; MD/PhD Program, Wayne State University School of Medicine, Detroit, MI, USA
| | - Holly Edwards
- Department of Oncology, Wayne State University School of Medicine, Detroit, MI, USA; Molecular Therapeutics Program, Barbara Ann Karmanos Cancer Institute, Wayne State University School of Medicine, Detroit, MI, USA
| | - Steven A Buck
- Division of Pediatric Hematology/Oncology, Children's Hospital of Michigan, Detroit, MI, USA
| | | | - Maik Hüttemann
- Center for Molecular Medicine and Genetics, Wayne State University School of Medicine, Detroit, MI, USA
| | - Lisa Polin
- Department of Oncology, Wayne State University School of Medicine, Detroit, MI, USA; Molecular Therapeutics Program, Barbara Ann Karmanos Cancer Institute, Wayne State University School of Medicine, Detroit, MI, USA
| | - Juiwanna Kushner
- Department of Oncology, Wayne State University School of Medicine, Detroit, MI, USA; Molecular Therapeutics Program, Barbara Ann Karmanos Cancer Institute, Wayne State University School of Medicine, Detroit, MI, USA
| | - Sijana H Dzinic
- Department of Oncology, Wayne State University School of Medicine, Detroit, MI, USA; Molecular Therapeutics Program, Barbara Ann Karmanos Cancer Institute, Wayne State University School of Medicine, Detroit, MI, USA
| | - Kathryn White
- Department of Oncology, Wayne State University School of Medicine, Detroit, MI, USA; Molecular Therapeutics Program, Barbara Ann Karmanos Cancer Institute, Wayne State University School of Medicine, Detroit, MI, USA
| | - Xun Bao
- Department of Oncology, Wayne State University School of Medicine, Detroit, MI, USA; Molecular Therapeutics Program, Barbara Ann Karmanos Cancer Institute, Wayne State University School of Medicine, Detroit, MI, USA
| | - Jing Li
- Department of Oncology, Wayne State University School of Medicine, Detroit, MI, USA; Molecular Therapeutics Program, Barbara Ann Karmanos Cancer Institute, Wayne State University School of Medicine, Detroit, MI, USA
| | - Jay Yang
- Department of Oncology, Wayne State University School of Medicine, Detroit, MI, USA; Molecular Therapeutics Program, Barbara Ann Karmanos Cancer Institute, Wayne State University School of Medicine, Detroit, MI, USA
| | - Julie Boerner
- Department of Oncology, Wayne State University School of Medicine, Detroit, MI, USA; Molecular Therapeutics Program, Barbara Ann Karmanos Cancer Institute, Wayne State University School of Medicine, Detroit, MI, USA
| | - Zhanjun Hou
- Department of Oncology, Wayne State University School of Medicine, Detroit, MI, USA; Molecular Therapeutics Program, Barbara Ann Karmanos Cancer Institute, Wayne State University School of Medicine, Detroit, MI, USA
| | - Gheath Al-Atrash
- Department of Stem Cell Transplantation and Cellular Therapy, The University of Texas MD Anderson Cancer Center, Houston, TX, USA
| | - Sergej N Konoplev
- Department of Leukemia, MD Anderson Cancer Center, The University of Texas, Houston, TX, USA
| | - Jonathan Busquets
- Department of Nutritional Sciences, The University of Texas at Austin, Austin, TX, USA
| | - Stefano Tiziani
- Department of Nutritional Sciences, The University of Texas at Austin, Austin, TX, USA
| | - Larry H Matherly
- Cancer Biology Graduate Program, Wayne State University School of Medicine, Detroit, MI, USA; Department of Oncology, Wayne State University School of Medicine, Detroit, MI, USA; Molecular Therapeutics Program, Barbara Ann Karmanos Cancer Institute, Wayne State University School of Medicine, Detroit, MI, USA
| | - Jeffrey W Taub
- Molecular Therapeutics Program, Barbara Ann Karmanos Cancer Institute, Wayne State University School of Medicine, Detroit, MI, USA; Division of Pediatric Hematology/Oncology, Children's Hospital of Michigan, Detroit, MI, USA; Department of Pediatrics, Wayne State University School of Medicine, Detroit, MI, USA
| | - Marina Konopleva
- Department of Leukemia, MD Anderson Cancer Center, The University of Texas, Houston, TX, USA.
| | - Yubin Ge
- Cancer Biology Graduate Program, Wayne State University School of Medicine, Detroit, MI, USA; Department of Oncology, Wayne State University School of Medicine, Detroit, MI, USA; Molecular Therapeutics Program, Barbara Ann Karmanos Cancer Institute, Wayne State University School of Medicine, Detroit, MI, USA.
| | - Natalia Baran
- Department of Leukemia, MD Anderson Cancer Center, The University of Texas, Houston, TX, USA.
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2
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Sharma P, Borthakur G. Targeting metabolic vulnerabilities to overcome resistance to therapy in acute myeloid leukemia. CANCER DRUG RESISTANCE (ALHAMBRA, CALIF.) 2023; 6:567-589. [PMID: 37842232 PMCID: PMC10571063 DOI: 10.20517/cdr.2023.12] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/17/2023] [Revised: 07/07/2023] [Accepted: 07/22/2023] [Indexed: 10/17/2023]
Abstract
Malignant hematopoietic cells gain metabolic plasticity, reorganize anabolic mechanisms to improve anabolic output and prevent oxidative damage, and bypass cell cycle checkpoints, eventually outcompeting normal hematopoietic cells. Current therapeutic strategies of acute myeloid leukemia (AML) are based on prognostic stratification that includes mutation profile as the closest surrogate to disease biology. Clinical efficacy of targeted therapies, e.g., agents targeting mutant FMS-like tyrosine kinase 3 (FLT3) and isocitrate dehydrogenase 1 or 2, are mostly limited to the presence of relevant mutations. Recent studies have not only demonstrated that specific mutations in AML create metabolic vulnerabilities but also highlighted the efficacy of targeting metabolic vulnerabilities in combination with inhibitors of these mutations. Therefore, delineating the functional relationships between genetic stratification, metabolic dependencies, and response to specific inhibitors of these vulnerabilities is crucial for identifying more effective therapeutic regimens, understanding resistance mechanisms, and identifying early response markers, ultimately improving the likelihood of cure. In addition, metabolic changes occurring in the tumor microenvironment have also been reported as therapeutic targets. The metabolic profiles of leukemia stem cells (LSCs) differ, and relapsed/refractory LSCs switch to alternative metabolic pathways, fueling oxidative phosphorylation (OXPHOS), rendering them therapeutically resistant. In this review, we discuss the role of cancer metabolic pathways that contribute to the metabolic plasticity of AML and confer resistance to standard therapy; we also highlight the latest promising developments in the field in translating these important findings to the clinic and discuss the tumor microenvironment that supports metabolic plasticity and interplay with AML cells.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Gautam Borthakur
- Department of Leukemia, Section of Molecular Hematology and Therapeutics, The University of Texas MD Anderson Cancer Center, Houston, TX 77030, USA
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3
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Greene J, Segaran A, Lord S. Targeting OXPHOS and the electronic transport chain in cancer; molecular and therapeutic implications. Semin Cancer Biol 2022; 86:851-859. [PMID: 35122973 DOI: 10.1016/j.semcancer.2022.02.002] [Citation(s) in RCA: 63] [Impact Index Per Article: 31.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/07/2021] [Revised: 01/29/2022] [Accepted: 02/01/2022] [Indexed: 12/11/2022]
Abstract
Oxidative phosphorylation (OXPHOS) takes place in mitochondria and is the process whereby cells use carbon fuels and oxygen to generate ATP. Formerly OXPHOS was thought to be reduced in tumours and that glycolysis was the critical pathway for generation of ATP but it is now clear that OXPHOS, at least in many tumour types, plays a critical role in delivering the bioenergetic and macromolecular anabolic requirements of cancer cells. There is now great interest in targeting the OXPHOS and the electron transport chain for cancer therapy and in this review article we describe current therapeutic approaches and challenges.
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Affiliation(s)
- John Greene
- Department of Oncology, University of Oxford, Churchill Hospital, Oxford, United Kingdom
| | - Ashvina Segaran
- Ludwig Institute for Cancer Research, University of Oxford, Old Road Campus Research Building, Oxford, United Kingdom
| | - Simon Lord
- Department of Oncology, University of Oxford, Churchill Hospital, Oxford, United Kingdom.
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4
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Mouron S, Bueno MJ, Muñoz M, Quintela-Fandino M. Monitoring vascular normalization: new opportunities for mitochondrial inhibitors in breast cancer. Oncoscience 2021; 8:1-13. [PMID: 33869665 PMCID: PMC8018703 DOI: 10.18632/oncoscience.523] [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: 07/29/2020] [Accepted: 02/08/2021] [Indexed: 11/25/2022] Open
Abstract
Preclinical evidence indicates the potential of targeting mitochondrial respiration as a therapeutic strategy. We previously demonstrated that mitochondrial inhibitors’ efficacy was restricted to a metabolic context in which mitochondrial respiration was the predominant energy source, a situation achievable by inducing vascular normalization/hypoxia correction with antiangiogenics. Using molecular imaging, we showed how the same antiangiogenic agent may display different normalizing properties in patients with the same tumor type. This is of key importance, since patients experiencing normalization seem to get more benefit from standard chemotherapy combinations, and also could be eligible for combination with antimitochondrial agents. This scenario emphasizes the need for monitoring vascular normalization in order to optimize the use of antiangiogenics. We have also proposed a method to evaluate anti-mitochondrial agents’ pharmacodynamics; despite promising accuracy in animal studies the clinical results were inconclusive, highlighting the need for research in this field. Regarding patients that respond to antiangiogenics increasing vessel abnormality, in this case an immunosuppressive tumor microenvironment is generated. Whether anti-mitochondrial agents can positively modulate the activity of T effector cell subpopulations remains an area of active research. Our research sheds light on the importance of refining the use of antiangiogenics, highlighting the relevance of tracing vascular normalization as a potential biomarker for antiangiogenics to assist patient-tailored medicine and exploring the role of mitochondrial inhibitors in the context of vascular normalization and correction of hypoxia.
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Affiliation(s)
- Silvana Mouron
- Breast Cancer Clinical Research Unit - Clinical Research Program, CNIO - Spanish National Cancer Research Center, Madrid, Spain
| | - Maria J Bueno
- Breast Cancer Clinical Research Unit - Clinical Research Program, CNIO - Spanish National Cancer Research Center, Madrid, Spain
| | - Manuel Muñoz
- Breast Cancer Clinical Research Unit - Clinical Research Program, CNIO - Spanish National Cancer Research Center, Madrid, Spain
| | - Miguel Quintela-Fandino
- Breast Cancer Clinical Research Unit - Clinical Research Program, CNIO - Spanish National Cancer Research Center, Madrid, Spain.,Medical Oncology, Hospital Universitario de Fuenlabrada, Fuenlabrada, Madrid, Spain.,Medical Oncology, Hospital Universitario Quiron, Pozuelo de Alarcon, Madrid, Spain.,Department of Medicine, Universidad Autonóma de Madrid, Madrid, Spain
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5
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Carter JL, Hege K, Yang J, Kalpage HA, Su Y, Edwards H, Hüttemann M, Taub JW, Ge Y. Targeting multiple signaling pathways: the new approach to acute myeloid leukemia therapy. Signal Transduct Target Ther 2020; 5:288. [PMID: 33335095 PMCID: PMC7746731 DOI: 10.1038/s41392-020-00361-x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 94] [Impact Index Per Article: 23.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/24/2020] [Revised: 09/21/2020] [Accepted: 09/23/2020] [Indexed: 02/06/2023] Open
Abstract
Acute myeloid leukemia (AML) is the most common form of acute leukemia in adults and the second most common form of acute leukemia in children. Despite this, very little improvement in survival rates has been achieved over the past few decades. This is partially due to the heterogeneity of AML and the need for more targeted therapeutics than the traditional cytotoxic chemotherapies that have been a mainstay in therapy for the past 50 years. In the past 20 years, research has been diversifying the approach to treating AML by investigating molecular pathways uniquely relevant to AML cell proliferation and survival. Here we review the development of novel therapeutics in targeting apoptosis, receptor tyrosine kinase (RTK) signaling, hedgehog (HH) pathway, mitochondrial function, DNA repair, and c-Myc signaling. There has been an impressive effort into better understanding the diversity of AML cell characteristics and here we highlight important preclinical studies that have supported therapeutic development and continue to promote new ways to target AML cells. In addition, we describe clinical investigations that have led to FDA approval of new targeted AML therapies and ongoing clinical trials of novel therapies targeting AML survival pathways. We also describe the complexity of targeting leukemia stem cells (LSCs) as an approach to addressing relapse and remission in AML and targetable pathways that are unique to LSC survival. This comprehensive review details what we currently understand about the signaling pathways that support AML cell survival and the exceptional ways in which we disrupt them.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jenna L Carter
- Cancer Biology Graduate Program, Wayne State University School of Medicine, Detroit, MI, USA.,MD/PhD Program, Wayne State University School of Medicine, Detroit, MI, USA
| | - Katie Hege
- Cancer Biology Graduate Program, Wayne State University School of Medicine, Detroit, MI, USA
| | - Jay Yang
- Department of Oncology, Wayne State University School of Medicine, Detroit, MI, USA.,Molecular Therapeutics Program, Barbara Ann Karmanos Cancer Institute, Wayne State University School of Medicine, Detroit, MI, USA
| | - Hasini A Kalpage
- Center for Molecular Medicine and Genetics, Wayne State University School of Medicine, Detroit, MI, USA
| | - Yongwei Su
- Department of Oncology, Wayne State University School of Medicine, Detroit, MI, USA.,Molecular Therapeutics Program, Barbara Ann Karmanos Cancer Institute, Wayne State University School of Medicine, Detroit, MI, USA.,National Engineering Laboratory for AIDS Vaccine, Key Laboratory for Molecular Enzymology and Engineering, The Ministry of Education, School of Life Sciences, Jilin University, Changchun, China
| | - Holly Edwards
- Department of Oncology, Wayne State University School of Medicine, Detroit, MI, USA.,Molecular Therapeutics Program, Barbara Ann Karmanos Cancer Institute, Wayne State University School of Medicine, Detroit, MI, USA
| | - Maik Hüttemann
- Center for Molecular Medicine and Genetics, Wayne State University School of Medicine, Detroit, MI, USA
| | - Jeffrey W Taub
- Cancer Biology Graduate Program, Wayne State University School of Medicine, Detroit, MI, USA. .,Molecular Therapeutics Program, Barbara Ann Karmanos Cancer Institute, Wayne State University School of Medicine, Detroit, MI, USA. .,Division of Pediatric Hematology/Oncology, Children's Hospital of Michigan, Detroit, MI, USA. .,Department of Pediatrics, Wayne State University School of Medicine, Detroit, MI, USA.
| | - Yubin Ge
- Cancer Biology Graduate Program, Wayne State University School of Medicine, Detroit, MI, USA. .,Department of Oncology, Wayne State University School of Medicine, Detroit, MI, USA. .,Molecular Therapeutics Program, Barbara Ann Karmanos Cancer Institute, Wayne State University School of Medicine, Detroit, MI, USA.
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6
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Carter JL, Hege K, Kalpage HA, Edwards H, Hüttemann M, Taub JW, Ge Y. Targeting mitochondrial respiration for the treatment of acute myeloid leukemia. Biochem Pharmacol 2020; 182:114253. [PMID: 33011159 DOI: 10.1016/j.bcp.2020.114253] [Citation(s) in RCA: 31] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/28/2020] [Revised: 09/24/2020] [Accepted: 09/28/2020] [Indexed: 02/06/2023]
Abstract
Acute myeloid leukemia (AML) is a heterogeneous disease with variable presentation, molecular phenotype, and cytogenetic abnormalities and has seen very little improvement in patient survival over the last few decades. This heterogeneity supports poor prognosis partially through the variability in response to the standard chemotherapy. Further understanding of molecular heterogeneity has promoted the development of novel treatments, some of which target mitochondrial metabolism and function. This review discusses the relative dependency that AML cells have on mitochondrial function, and the ability to pivot this reliance to target important subsets of AML cells, including leukemia stem cells (LSCs). LSCs are tumor-initiating cells that are resistant to standard chemotherapy and promote the persistence and relapse of AML. Historically, LSCs have been targeted based on immunophenotype, but recent developments in the understanding of LSC metabolism has demonstrated unique abilities to target LSCs while sparing normal hematopoietic stem cells (HSCs) through inhibition of mitochondrial function. Here we highlight the use of small molecules that have been demonstrated to effectively target mitochondrial function. IACS-010759 and ME-344 target the electron transport chain (ETC) to inhibit oxidative phosphorylation (OXPHOS). The imipridone family (ONC201, ONC206, ONC212) of inhibitors target mitochondria through activation of ClpP mitochondrial protease and reduce function of essential pathways. These molecules offer a new mechanism for developing clinical therapies in AML and support novel strategies to target LSCs in parallel with conventional therapies.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jenna L Carter
- Cancer Biology Graduate Program, Wayne State University School of Medicine, Detroit, MI, USA; MD/PhD Program, Wayne State University School of Medicine, Detroit, MI, USA
| | - Katie Hege
- Cancer Biology Graduate Program, Wayne State University School of Medicine, Detroit, MI, USA
| | - Hasini A Kalpage
- Center for Molecular Medicine and Genetics, Wayne State University School of Medicine, Detroit, MI, USA
| | - Holly Edwards
- Department of Oncology, Wayne State University School of Medicine, Detroit, MI, USA; Molecular Therapeutics Program, Karmanos Cancer Institute, Wayne State University School of Medicine, Detroit, MI, USA
| | - Maik Hüttemann
- Center for Molecular Medicine and Genetics, Wayne State University School of Medicine, Detroit, MI, USA
| | - Jeffrey W Taub
- Department of Oncology, Wayne State University School of Medicine, Detroit, MI, USA; Molecular Therapeutics Program, Karmanos Cancer Institute, Wayne State University School of Medicine, Detroit, MI, USA; Division of Pediatric Hematology and Oncology, Children's Hospital of Michigan, Detroit, MI, USA.
| | - Yubin Ge
- Cancer Biology Graduate Program, Wayne State University School of Medicine, Detroit, MI, USA; Department of Oncology, Wayne State University School of Medicine, Detroit, MI, USA; Molecular Therapeutics Program, Karmanos Cancer Institute, Wayne State University School of Medicine, Detroit, MI, USA.
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7
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Zhang L, Townsend DM, Morris M, Maldonado EN, Jiang YL, Broome AM, Bethard JR, Ball LE, Tew KD. Voltage-Dependent Anion Channels Influence Cytotoxicity of ME-344, a Therapeutic Isoflavone. J Pharmacol Exp Ther 2020; 374:308-318. [PMID: 32546528 PMCID: PMC7372917 DOI: 10.1124/jpet.120.000009] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/17/2020] [Accepted: 05/19/2020] [Indexed: 01/27/2023] Open
Abstract
ME-344 is a second-generation cytotoxic isoflavone with anticancer activity promulgated through interference with mitochondrial functions. Using a click chemistry version of the drug together with affinity-enriched mass spectrometry, voltage-dependent anion channels (VDACs) 1 and 2 were identified as drug targets. To determine the importance of VDAC1 or 2 to cytotoxicity, we used lung cancer cells that were either sensitive (H460) or intrinsically resistant (H596) to the drug. In H460 cells, depletion of VDAC1 and VDAC2 by small interfering RNA impacted ME-344 effects by diminishing generation of reactive oxygen species (ROS), preventing mitochondrial membrane potential dissipation, and moderating ME-344-induced cytotoxicity and mitochondrial-mediated apoptosis. Mechanistically, VDAC1 and VDAC2 knockdown prevented ME-344-induced apoptosis by inhibiting Bax mitochondrial translocation and cytochrome c release as well as apoptosis in these H460 cells. We conclude that VDAC1 and 2, as mediators of the response to oxidative stress, have roles in modulating ROS generation, Bax translocation, and cytochrome c release during mitochondrial-mediated apoptosis caused by ME-344. SIGNIFICANCE STATEMENT: Dissecting preclinical drug mechanisms are of significance in development of a drug toward eventual Food and Drug Administration approval.
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Affiliation(s)
- Leilei Zhang
- Department of Cell and Molecular Pharmacology and Experimental Therapeutics (L.Z., M.M., E.N.M., Y.-L.J., A.-M.B., J.R.B., L.E.B., K.D.T.) and Department of Pharmaceutical and Biomedical Sciences (D.M.T.), Medical University of South Carolina, Charleston, South Carolina
| | - Danyelle M Townsend
- Department of Cell and Molecular Pharmacology and Experimental Therapeutics (L.Z., M.M., E.N.M., Y.-L.J., A.-M.B., J.R.B., L.E.B., K.D.T.) and Department of Pharmaceutical and Biomedical Sciences (D.M.T.), Medical University of South Carolina, Charleston, South Carolina
| | - Morgan Morris
- Department of Cell and Molecular Pharmacology and Experimental Therapeutics (L.Z., M.M., E.N.M., Y.-L.J., A.-M.B., J.R.B., L.E.B., K.D.T.) and Department of Pharmaceutical and Biomedical Sciences (D.M.T.), Medical University of South Carolina, Charleston, South Carolina
| | - Eduardo N Maldonado
- Department of Cell and Molecular Pharmacology and Experimental Therapeutics (L.Z., M.M., E.N.M., Y.-L.J., A.-M.B., J.R.B., L.E.B., K.D.T.) and Department of Pharmaceutical and Biomedical Sciences (D.M.T.), Medical University of South Carolina, Charleston, South Carolina
| | - Yu-Lin Jiang
- Department of Cell and Molecular Pharmacology and Experimental Therapeutics (L.Z., M.M., E.N.M., Y.-L.J., A.-M.B., J.R.B., L.E.B., K.D.T.) and Department of Pharmaceutical and Biomedical Sciences (D.M.T.), Medical University of South Carolina, Charleston, South Carolina
| | - Ann-Marie Broome
- Department of Cell and Molecular Pharmacology and Experimental Therapeutics (L.Z., M.M., E.N.M., Y.-L.J., A.-M.B., J.R.B., L.E.B., K.D.T.) and Department of Pharmaceutical and Biomedical Sciences (D.M.T.), Medical University of South Carolina, Charleston, South Carolina
| | - Jennifer R Bethard
- Department of Cell and Molecular Pharmacology and Experimental Therapeutics (L.Z., M.M., E.N.M., Y.-L.J., A.-M.B., J.R.B., L.E.B., K.D.T.) and Department of Pharmaceutical and Biomedical Sciences (D.M.T.), Medical University of South Carolina, Charleston, South Carolina
| | - Lauren E Ball
- Department of Cell and Molecular Pharmacology and Experimental Therapeutics (L.Z., M.M., E.N.M., Y.-L.J., A.-M.B., J.R.B., L.E.B., K.D.T.) and Department of Pharmaceutical and Biomedical Sciences (D.M.T.), Medical University of South Carolina, Charleston, South Carolina
| | - Kenneth D Tew
- Department of Cell and Molecular Pharmacology and Experimental Therapeutics (L.Z., M.M., E.N.M., Y.-L.J., A.-M.B., J.R.B., L.E.B., K.D.T.) and Department of Pharmaceutical and Biomedical Sciences (D.M.T.), Medical University of South Carolina, Charleston, South Carolina
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8
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Subbiah S, Nam A, Garg N, Behal A, Kulkarni P, Salgia R. Small Cell Lung Cancer from Traditional to Innovative Therapeutics: Building a Comprehensive Network to Optimize Clinical and Translational Research. J Clin Med 2020; 9:jcm9082433. [PMID: 32751469 PMCID: PMC7464169 DOI: 10.3390/jcm9082433] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/21/2020] [Revised: 07/27/2020] [Accepted: 07/28/2020] [Indexed: 12/23/2022] Open
Abstract
Small cell lung cancer (SCLC) is an aggressive, complex disease with a distinct biology that contributes to its poor prognosis. Management of SCLC is still widely limited to chemotherapy and radiation therapy, and research recruitment still poses a considerable challenge. Here, we review the current standard of care for SCLC and advances made in utilizing immunotherapy. We also highlight research in the development of targeted therapies and emphasize the importance of a team-based approach to make clinical advances. Building an integrative network between an academic site and community practice sites optimizes biomarker and drug target discovery for managing and treating a difficult disease like SCLC.
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9
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Ricker CA, Crawford K, Matlock K, Lathara M, Seguin B, Rudzinski ER, Berlow NE, Keller C. Defining an embryonal rhabdomyosarcoma endotype. Cold Spring Harb Mol Case Stud 2020; 6:mcs.a005066. [PMID: 32238403 PMCID: PMC7133750 DOI: 10.1101/mcs.a005066] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/10/2019] [Accepted: 02/13/2020] [Indexed: 02/06/2023] Open
Abstract
Rhabdomyosarcoma (RMS) is the most common childhood soft-tissue sarcoma. The largest subtype of RMS is embryonal rhabdomyosarcoma (ERMS) and accounts for 53% of all RMS. ERMS typically occurs in the head and neck region, bladder, or reproductive organs and portends a promising prognosis when localized; however, when metastatic the 5-yr overall survival rate is ∼43%. The genomic landscape of ERMS demonstrates a range of putative driver mutations, and thus the recognition of the pathological mechanisms driving tumor maintenance should be critical for identifying effective targeted treatments at the level of the individual patients. Here, we report genomic, phenotypic, and bioinformatic analyses for a case of a 3-yr-old male who presented with bladder ERMS. Additionally, we use an unsupervised agglomerative clustering analysis of RNA and whole-exome sequencing data across ERMS and undifferentiated pleomorphic sarcoma (UPS) tumor samples to determine several major endotypes inferring potential targeted treatments for a spectrum of pediatric ERMS patient cases.
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Affiliation(s)
- Cora A Ricker
- Children's Cancer Therapy Development Institute, Beaverton, Oregon 97005, USA
| | - Kenneth Crawford
- Children's Cancer Therapy Development Institute, Beaverton, Oregon 97005, USA
| | | | | | - Bernard Seguin
- Flint Animal Cancer Center, Colorado State University, Fort Collins, Colorado 80525, USA
| | | | - Noah E Berlow
- Children's Cancer Therapy Development Institute, Beaverton, Oregon 97005, USA
| | - Charles Keller
- Children's Cancer Therapy Development Institute, Beaverton, Oregon 97005, USA
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10
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Ippolito L, Giannoni E, Chiarugi P, Parri M. Mitochondrial Redox Hubs as Promising Targets for Anticancer Therapy. Front Oncol 2020; 10:256. [PMID: 32185131 PMCID: PMC7058804 DOI: 10.3389/fonc.2020.00256] [Citation(s) in RCA: 34] [Impact Index Per Article: 8.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/04/2019] [Accepted: 02/14/2020] [Indexed: 01/10/2023] Open
Abstract
Mitochondria play multifaceted roles in malignant tumor progression. Beyond their bioenergetic role, mitochondria are essential for providing malignant cells a higher plasticity to face the harsh environmental conditions. Cell-autonomous metabolic deregulation of cancer cells, or metabolic adaptation to microenvironmental cues (lack of nutrients, stromal supply, hypoxia, etc.), represent the triggering event of mitochondria overexploitation to orchestrate nutrient sensing and upload, signaling, and redox circuits. As readout of their higher function, mitochondria produce high amounts of reactive oxygen species (ROS) that are functional for multiple signaling networks underlying tumor proliferation, survival, and metastatic process. To compensate for the higher rate of mitochondrial ROS production, cancer cells have evolved adaptive mechanisms to increase their antioxidant systems and to address ROS activating pathways useful for the tumor cell adaptation to environmental changes. As these properties are critical for cancer progression, mitochondrial ROS have recently become an attractive target for anti-cancer therapies. We discuss how understanding of mitochondrial function in the tumor-specific generation of ROS will impact on the development of novel redox-based targeted therapeutic strategies.
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Affiliation(s)
- Luigi Ippolito
- Department of Experimental and Clinical Biomedical Sciences, University of Florence, Florence, Italy
| | - Elisa Giannoni
- Department of Experimental and Clinical Biomedical Sciences, University of Florence, Florence, Italy
| | - Paola Chiarugi
- Department of Experimental and Clinical Biomedical Sciences, University of Florence, Florence, Italy
| | - Matteo Parri
- Department of Experimental and Clinical Biomedical Sciences, University of Florence, Florence, Italy
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11
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Abstract
Significance: Mitochondria undergo constant morphological changes through fusion, fission, and mitophagy. As the key organelle in cells, mitochondria are responsible for numerous essential cellular functions such as metabolism, regulation of calcium (Ca2+), generation of reactive oxygen species, and initiation of apoptosis. Unsurprisingly, mitochondrial dysfunctions underlie many pathologies including cancer. Recent Advances: Currently, the gold standard for cancer treatment is chemotherapy, radiation, and surgery. However, the efficacy of these treatments varies across different cancer cells. It has been suggested that mitochondria may be at the center of these diverse responses. In the past decade, significant advances have been made in understanding distinct types of mitochondrial dysfunctions in cancer. Through investigations of underlying mechanisms, more effective treatment options are developed. Critical Issues: We summarize various mitochondria dysfunctions in cancer progression that have led to the development of therapeutic options. Current mitochondrial-targeted therapies and challenges are discussed. Future Directions: To address the "root" of cancer, utilization of mitochondrial-targeted therapy to target cancer stem cells may be valuable. Investigation of other areas such as mitochondrial trafficking may offer new insights into cancer therapy. Moreover, common antibiotics could be explored as mitocans, and synthetic lethality screens can be utilized to overcome the plasticity of cancer cells.
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Affiliation(s)
- Hsin Yao Chiu
- Department of Physiology, Yong Loo Lin School of Medicine, National University of Singapore, Singapore, Singapore
| | - Emmy Xue Yun Tay
- Department of Physiology, Yong Loo Lin School of Medicine, National University of Singapore, Singapore, Singapore
| | - Derrick Sek Tong Ong
- Department of Physiology, Yong Loo Lin School of Medicine, National University of Singapore, Singapore, Singapore
| | - Reshma Taneja
- Department of Physiology, Yong Loo Lin School of Medicine, National University of Singapore, Singapore, Singapore
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12
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Quintela-Fandino M, Morales S, Cortés-Salgado A, Manso L, Apala JV, Muñoz M, Gasol Cudos A, Salla Fortuny J, Gion M, Lopez-Alonso A, Cortés J, Guerra J, Malón D, Caleiras E, Mulero F, Mouron S. Randomized Phase 0/I Trial of the Mitochondrial Inhibitor ME-344 or Placebo Added to Bevacizumab in Early HER2-Negative Breast Cancer. Clin Cancer Res 2019; 26:35-45. [DOI: 10.1158/1078-0432.ccr-19-2023] [Citation(s) in RCA: 17] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/21/2019] [Revised: 09/09/2019] [Accepted: 10/03/2019] [Indexed: 11/16/2022]
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13
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The Mitochondrion as an Emerging Therapeutic Target in Cancer. Trends Mol Med 2019; 26:119-134. [PMID: 31327706 DOI: 10.1016/j.molmed.2019.06.009] [Citation(s) in RCA: 109] [Impact Index Per Article: 21.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/25/2019] [Revised: 06/10/2019] [Accepted: 06/14/2019] [Indexed: 12/11/2022]
Abstract
Mitochondria have emerged as important pharmacological targets because of their key role in cellular proliferation and death. In tumor tissues, mitochondria can switch metabolic phenotypes to meet the challenges of high energy demand and macromolecular synthesis. Furthermore, mitochondria can engage in crosstalk with the tumor microenvironment, and signals from cancer-associated fibroblasts can impinge on mitochondria. Cancer cells can also acquire a hybrid phenotype in which both glycolysis and oxidative phosphorylation (OXPHOS) can be utilized. This hybrid phenotype can facilitate metabolic plasticity of cancer cells more specifically in metastasis and therapy-resistance. In light of the metabolic heterogeneity and plasticity of cancer cells that had until recently remained unappreciated, strategies targeting cancer metabolic dependency appear to be promising in the development of novel and effective cancer therapeutics.
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14
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Zhang L, Zhang J, Ye Z, Manevich Y, Ball LE, Bethard JR, Jiang YL, Broome AM, Dalton AC, Wang GY, Townsend DM, Tew KD. Isoflavone ME-344 Disrupts Redox Homeostasis and Mitochondrial Function by Targeting Heme Oxygenase 1. Cancer Res 2019; 79:4072-4085. [PMID: 31227482 DOI: 10.1158/0008-5472.can-18-3503] [Citation(s) in RCA: 20] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/07/2018] [Revised: 02/12/2019] [Accepted: 06/17/2019] [Indexed: 12/19/2022]
Abstract
ME-344 is a second-generation isoflavone with unusual cytotoxic properties that is in clinical testing in cancer. To identify targets that contribute to its anticancer activity and therapeutic index, we used lung cancer cell lines that are naturally sensitive or resistant to ME-344. Drug-induced apoptosis was linked with enhanced levels of reactive oxygen species and this initiated a nuclear erythroid factor 2-like 2 signaling response, downstream of which, heme oxygenase 1 (HO-1) was also found to be time-dependently inhibited by ME-344. ME-344 specifically bound to, and altered, HO-1 structure and increased HO-1 translocation from the rough endoplasmic reticulum to mitochondria, but only in drug-sensitive cells. These effects did not occur in either drug-resistant or primary lung fibroblasts with lower HO-1 basal levels. HO-1 was confirmed as a drug target by using surface plasmon resonance technology and through interaction with a clickable ME-344 compound (M2F) and subsequent proteomic analyses, showing direct binding of ME-344 with HO-1. Proteomic analysis showed that clusters of mitochondrial proteins, including voltage-dependent anion-selective channels, were also impacted by ME-344. Human lung cancer biopsies expressed higher levels of Nrf2 and HO-1 compared with normal tissues. Overall, our data show that ME-344 inhibits HO-1 and impacts its mitochondrial translocation. Other mitochondrial proteins are also affected, resulting in interference in tumor cell redox homeostasis and mitochondrial function. These factors contribute to a beneficial therapeutic index and support continued clinical development of ME-344. SIGNIFICANCE: A novel cytotoxic isoflavone is shown to inhibit heme oxygenase, a desirable yet elusive target that disrupts redox homeostasis causing cell death.
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Affiliation(s)
- Leilei Zhang
- Department of Cell and Molecular Pharmacology and Experimental Therapeutics, Medical University of South Carolina, Charleston, South Carolina
| | - Jie Zhang
- Department of Cell and Molecular Pharmacology and Experimental Therapeutics, Medical University of South Carolina, Charleston, South Carolina
| | - Zhiwei Ye
- Department of Cell and Molecular Pharmacology and Experimental Therapeutics, Medical University of South Carolina, Charleston, South Carolina
| | - Yefim Manevich
- Department of Cell and Molecular Pharmacology and Experimental Therapeutics, Medical University of South Carolina, Charleston, South Carolina
| | - Lauren E Ball
- Department of Cell and Molecular Pharmacology and Experimental Therapeutics, Medical University of South Carolina, Charleston, South Carolina
| | - Jennifer R Bethard
- Department of Cell and Molecular Pharmacology and Experimental Therapeutics, Medical University of South Carolina, Charleston, South Carolina
| | - Yu-Lin Jiang
- Department of Cell and Molecular Pharmacology and Experimental Therapeutics, Medical University of South Carolina, Charleston, South Carolina
| | - Ann-Marie Broome
- Department of Cell and Molecular Pharmacology and Experimental Therapeutics, Medical University of South Carolina, Charleston, South Carolina
| | - Annamarie C Dalton
- Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, Medical University of South Carolina, Charleston, South Carolina
| | - Gavin Y Wang
- Department of Pathology and Laboratory Medicine, Medical University of South Carolina, Charleston, South Carolina
| | - Danyelle M Townsend
- Department of Pharmaceutical and Biomedical Sciences, Medical University of South Carolina, Charleston, South Carolina.
| | - Kenneth D Tew
- Department of Cell and Molecular Pharmacology and Experimental Therapeutics, Medical University of South Carolina, Charleston, South Carolina.
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15
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Abstract
Isoflavones isolated from members of the Fabaceae (primarily Leguminosae) family have been characterized for their phytoestrogenic properties, but certain derivatives have also shown potential as possible cancer therapeutic agents. ME-344, related to phenoxodiol (Fig. 1), is a second generation isoflavone with a recent history of both preclinical and early clinical testing. The drug has unusual cytotoxicity profiles, where cancer cell lines can be categorized as either intrinsically sensitive or resistant to the drug. Evolving studies show that the cytotoxic properties of the drug are enacted through targeting mitochondrial bioenergetics. While the drug has undergone early Phase I/II trials in solid tumors with confined dose limiting effects and some evidence of disease response, there is a continuing need to define specific cellular targets that determine sensitivity, with the long-term goal of applying such information to individualized therapy. This review article details some of the existing and ongoing studies that are assisting in the continued drug development processes that may lead to new drug application (NDA) status.
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Affiliation(s)
- Leilei Zhang
- Department of Cell and Molecular Pharmacology and Experimental Therapeutics, Medical University of South Carolina, Charleston, SC, United States
| | - Jie Zhang
- Department of Cell and Molecular Pharmacology and Experimental Therapeutics, Medical University of South Carolina, Charleston, SC, United States
| | - Zhiwei Ye
- Department of Cell and Molecular Pharmacology and Experimental Therapeutics, Medical University of South Carolina, Charleston, SC, United States
| | - Danyelle M Townsend
- Drug Discovery and Biomedical Sciences, Medical University of South Carolina, Charleston, SC, United States
| | - Kenneth D Tew
- Department of Cell and Molecular Pharmacology and Experimental Therapeutics, Medical University of South Carolina, Charleston, SC, United States.
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16
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Pharmacological targeting of mitochondria in cancer stem cells: An ancient organelle at the crossroad of novel anti-cancer therapies. Pharmacol Res 2019; 139:298-313. [DOI: 10.1016/j.phrs.2018.11.020] [Citation(s) in RCA: 54] [Impact Index Per Article: 10.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/19/2018] [Revised: 11/13/2018] [Accepted: 11/13/2018] [Indexed: 02/07/2023]
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17
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Saif M, Ager EI, Field P, Lilischkis KJ. The role of cancer stem cells and the therapeutic potential of TRX-E-002-1 in ovarian cancer. Expert Opin Orphan Drugs 2018. [DOI: 10.1080/21678707.2018.1508339] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/28/2022]
Affiliation(s)
- Muhammad Saif
- GI Oncology & Exp. Therapeutics, Tufts Medical Center, Tufts University School of Medicine, Boston, MA, USA
| | - E. I. Ager
- Kazia Therapeutics, Three International Towers Level 24, Sydney, Australia
| | | | - K. J. Lilischkis
- Kazia Therapeutics, Three International Towers Level 24, Sydney, Australia
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18
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Counihan JL, Grossman EA, Nomura DK. Cancer Metabolism: Current Understanding and Therapies. Chem Rev 2018; 118:6893-6923. [DOI: 10.1021/acs.chemrev.7b00775] [Citation(s) in RCA: 113] [Impact Index Per Article: 18.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/11/2022]
Affiliation(s)
- Jessica L. Counihan
- Departments of Chemistry, Molecular and Cell Biology, and Nutritional Sciences and Toxicology, University of California, Berkeley, Berkeley, California 94720, United States
| | - Elizabeth A. Grossman
- Departments of Chemistry, Molecular and Cell Biology, and Nutritional Sciences and Toxicology, University of California, Berkeley, Berkeley, California 94720, United States
| | - Daniel K. Nomura
- Departments of Chemistry, Molecular and Cell Biology, and Nutritional Sciences and Toxicology, University of California, Berkeley, Berkeley, California 94720, United States
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19
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Stevenson AJ, Ager EI, Proctor MA, Škalamera D, Heaton A, Brown D, Gabrielli BG. Mechanism of action of the third generation benzopyrans and evaluation of their broad anti-cancer activity in vitro and in vivo. Sci Rep 2018; 8:5144. [PMID: 29572477 PMCID: PMC5865165 DOI: 10.1038/s41598-018-22882-w] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/09/2017] [Accepted: 01/19/2018] [Indexed: 11/10/2022] Open
Abstract
Successive rounds of chemical modification in three generations of benzopyran molecules have shown to select for different mechanisms of actions and progressive increases in anti-cancer activity. In this study, we investigated the mechanism of action of the third-generation benzopyran compounds, TRX-E-002-1 and TRX-E-009-1. High-content screening of a panel of 240 cancer cell lines treated with TRX-E-009-1 demonstrated it has broad anti-cancer potential. Within this screen, melanoma cell lines showed a range of sensitivities and subsequently a second independent panel of 21 melanoma 3D spheroid lines were assessed for their responses to both TRX-E-002-1 and TRX-E-009-1 compounds. Time-lapse microscopy illustrated both of these compounds caused mitotic delays in treated cells, resulting in either mitotic slippage or apoptosis. This finding along with immunostaining, in vitro polymerization assays, and animal experiments in both athymic and immunocompetent mice, demonstrates that these third-generation benzopyran compounds are potent tubulin polymerization inhibitors in vitro and in vivo, and this is the molecular basis of their anti-cancer activity in melanoma. These findings indicate these BP compounds may offer a novel anti-microtubule strategy for cancer intervention and provides the basis for further investigation into biomarkers of clinical sensitivity.
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Affiliation(s)
- Alexander J Stevenson
- Mater Research Institute, The University of Queensland, Translational Research Institute, Brisbane, QLD, Australia
| | | | - Martina A Proctor
- Mater Research Institute, The University of Queensland, Translational Research Institute, Brisbane, QLD, Australia
| | - Dubravka Škalamera
- Mater Research Institute, The University of Queensland, Translational Research Institute, Brisbane, QLD, Australia
| | - Andrew Heaton
- Novogen Ltd., Hornsby, New South Wales, Australia.,School of Medical Sciences, University of New South Wales Australia, Sydney, New South Wales, Australia
| | - David Brown
- Novogen Ltd., Hornsby, New South Wales, Australia.,School of Medical Sciences, University of New South Wales Australia, Sydney, New South Wales, Australia
| | - Brian G Gabrielli
- Mater Research Institute, The University of Queensland, Translational Research Institute, Brisbane, QLD, Australia.
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20
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Jeyaraju DV, Hurren R, Wang X, MacLean N, Gronda M, Shamas-Din A, Minden MD, Giaever G, Schimmer AD. A novel isoflavone, ME-344, targets the cytoskeleton in acute myeloid leukemia. Oncotarget 2018; 7:49777-49785. [PMID: 27391350 PMCID: PMC5226547 DOI: 10.18632/oncotarget.10446] [Citation(s) in RCA: 16] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/19/2015] [Accepted: 06/26/2016] [Indexed: 01/08/2023] Open
Abstract
The isoflavone ME-344 is a potent anti-cancer agent with preclinical and clinical efficacy in solid tumors. Yet, the mechanism of action of ME-344 has not been fully defined and the preclinical efficacy in leukemia has not been established. Therefore, we investigated the anti-leukemic properties and mechanism of action of ME-344. In a panel of 7 leukemia cell lines, ME-344 was cytotoxic with an IC50 in the range of 70–260 nM. In addition, ME-344 was cytotoxic to primary AML patient samples over normal hematopoietic cells. In an OCI-AML2 xenograft model, ME-344 reduced tumor growth by up to 95% of control without evidence of toxicity. Mechanistically, ME-344 increased mitochondrial ROS generation in leukemic cells. However, antioxidant treatment did not rescue cell death, suggesting that ME-344 had additional targets beyond the mitochondria. We demonstrated that ME-344 inhibited tubulin polymerization by interacting with tubulin near the colchicine-binding site. Furthermore, inhibition of tubulin polymerization was functionally important for ME-344 induced death. Finally, we showed that ME-344 synergizes with vinblastine in leukemia cells. Thus, our study demonstrates that ME-344 displays preclinical efficacy in leukemia through a mechanism at least partly related to targeting tubulin polymerization.
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Affiliation(s)
- Danny V Jeyaraju
- Princess Margaret Cancer Centre, University Health Network, Toronto, ON, Canada
| | - Rose Hurren
- Princess Margaret Cancer Centre, University Health Network, Toronto, ON, Canada
| | - Xiaoming Wang
- Princess Margaret Cancer Centre, University Health Network, Toronto, ON, Canada
| | - Neil MacLean
- Princess Margaret Cancer Centre, University Health Network, Toronto, ON, Canada
| | - Marcela Gronda
- Princess Margaret Cancer Centre, University Health Network, Toronto, ON, Canada
| | - Aisha Shamas-Din
- Princess Margaret Cancer Centre, University Health Network, Toronto, ON, Canada
| | - Mark D Minden
- Princess Margaret Cancer Centre, University Health Network, Toronto, ON, Canada
| | - Guri Giaever
- Department of Pharmaceutical Sciences, University of British Columbia, Vancouver, BC, Canada
| | - Aaron D Schimmer
- Princess Margaret Cancer Centre, University Health Network, Toronto, ON, Canada
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21
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Diamond JR, Goff B, Forster MD, Bendell JC, Britten CD, Gordon MS, Gabra H, Waterhouse DM, Poole M, Ross Camidge D, Hamilton E, Moore KM. Phase Ib study of the mitochondrial inhibitor ME-344 plus topotecan in patients with previously treated, locally advanced or metastatic small cell lung, ovarian and cervical cancers. Invest New Drugs 2017; 35:627-633. [PMID: 28283779 DOI: 10.1007/s10637-017-0444-1] [Citation(s) in RCA: 18] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/16/2017] [Accepted: 02/20/2017] [Indexed: 01/01/2023]
Abstract
Background This multicenter, open-label, phase Ib study was designed to assess the safety, pharmacokinetics and preliminary efficacy of ME-344, a mitochondrial inhibitor, administered in combination with the topoisomerase I inhibitor, topotecan, in patients with previously treated, locally advanced or metastatic small cell lung (SCLC), ovarian and cervical cancers. Patients and methods In Part 1, patients received ME-344 10 mg/kg intravenously weekly on days 1, 8, 15 and 22 in combination with topotecan 4 mg/m2 on days 1, 8, and 15 of a 28 day cycle. Cycles were repeated until disease progression or unacceptable toxicity. Patients were evaluated for dose-limiting toxicity (DLT) in cycle 1 and ME-344 pharmacokinetic samples were obtained. In Part 2, patients with locally advanced or metastatic SCLC and ovarian cancer were enrolled in expansion cohorts treated at the recommended phase II dose (RP2D) determined in Part 1. Results Fourteen patients were enrolled in Part 1 and no DLTs were observed. The RP2D of ME-344 in combination with topotecan was established as 10 mg/kg. In Part 2, 32 patients were enrolled. The most common treatment-emergent all-grade and grade 3/4 toxicities included fatigue (65.2%, 6.5%), neutropenia (56.5%, 43.5%) and thrombocytopenia (50%, 23.9%). One patient with recurrent ovarian cancer experienced a partial response by RECIST 1.1 and 21 patients achieved stable disease as best response. Conclusions The combination of ME-344 10 mg/kg weekly and topotecan 4 mg/m2 was tolerable, however, the degree of anti-cancer activity does not support further investigation of the combination in unselected patients with SCLC, ovarian and cervical cancers.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jennifer R Diamond
- University of Colorado Cancer Center, 12801 E. 17th Avenue, Mailstop 8117, Aurora, CO, 80045, USA.
| | - Barbara Goff
- University of Washington/Seattle Cancer Care Alliance, Seattle, WA, USA
| | | | - Johanna C Bendell
- Sara Cannon Research Institute/Tennessee Oncology, Nashville, TN, USA
| | | | | | | | | | | | - D Ross Camidge
- University of Colorado Cancer Center, 12801 E. 17th Avenue, Mailstop 8117, Aurora, CO, 80045, USA
| | - Erika Hamilton
- Sara Cannon Research Institute/Tennessee Oncology, Nashville, TN, USA
| | - Kathleen M Moore
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, University of Oklahoma Health Sciences Center, Oklahoma City, OK, USA
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22
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Saif MW, Heaton A, Lilischkis K, Garner J, Brown DM. Pharmacology and toxicology of the novel investigational agent Cantrixil (TRX-E-002-1). Cancer Chemother Pharmacol 2016; 79:303-314. [PMID: 28013349 PMCID: PMC5306062 DOI: 10.1007/s00280-016-3224-2] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/18/2016] [Accepted: 12/12/2016] [Indexed: 12/19/2022]
Abstract
PURPOSE Recurrent, chemo-resistant ovarian cancer is thought to be due to a subgroup of slow-growing, drug-resistant cancer cells with stem-like properties and a high capacity for tumour repair. Cantrixil targets this sub-population of cells and is being developed as an intraperitoneal therapy to be used as first-line therapy in combination with carboplatin for epithelial ovarian cancer. The studies presented here justify further development. METHODS A GLP dog CV study using a 4 × 4 Latin Square Crossover study was conducted using telemetric ECG recordings from dogs post IP administration to assess for cardiac abnormalities. Mutagenic potential was assessed using the bacterial reverse mutation assay. Clastogenicity was assessed by determining micronuclei formation in the bone marrow of SPF Arc(S) Swiss mice dosed at clinical concentrations. TRX-E-002-1 toxicology was evaluated in GLP-compliant MTD and 28-day repeat-dose studies in rats and dogs. RESULTS In vitro TRX-E-002-1 has potent cytotoxic activity against human cancer cells including CD44+/MyD88+ ovarian cancer stem cells. TRX-E-002-1 increased phosphorylated c-Jun levels in these cancer cells resulting in caspase-mediated apoptosis. In vivo, Cantrixil was active in a model of disseminated ovarian cancer as a monotherapy and in combination with Cisplatin. Cantrixil was active as maintenance therapy in a model of drug-resistant, recurrent ovarian cancer and in an orthotopic model of pancreatic cancer. CONCLUSIONS In animals, this clinical formulation and route of administration of Cantrixil demonstrated acceptable activity, safety pharmacology, genotoxicity and toxicology profile and constituted a successful Investigational New Drug application to the US Food and Drug Administration.
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Affiliation(s)
- Muhammad Wasif Saif
- Department of Medicine and Cancer Center, Tufts Medical Center, 800 Washington Street, Box 245, Boston, MA, 02111, USA.
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Targeting Tumor Mitochondrial Metabolism Overcomes Resistance to Antiangiogenics. Cell Rep 2016; 15:2705-18. [PMID: 27292634 DOI: 10.1016/j.celrep.2016.05.052] [Citation(s) in RCA: 74] [Impact Index Per Article: 9.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/12/2015] [Revised: 03/29/2016] [Accepted: 05/12/2016] [Indexed: 12/28/2022] Open
Abstract
Epithelial malignancies are effectively treated by antiangiogenics; however, acquired resistance is a major problem in cancer therapeutics. Epithelial tumors commonly have mutations in the MAPK/Pi3K-AKT pathways, which leads to high-rate aerobic glycolysis. Here, we show how multikinase inhibitor antiangiogenics (TKIs) induce hypoxia correction in spontaneous breast and lung tumor models. When this happens, the tumors downregulate glycolysis and switch to long-term reliance on mitochondrial respiration. A transcriptomic, metabolomic, and phosphoproteomic study revealed that this metabolic switch is mediated by downregulation of HIF1α and AKT and upregulation of AMPK, allowing uptake and degradation of fatty acids and ketone bodies. The switch renders mitochondrial respiration necessary for tumor survival. Agents like phenformin or ME344 induce synergistic tumor control when combined with TKIs, leading to metabolic synthetic lethality. Our study uncovers mechanistic insights in the process of tumor resistance to TKIs and may have clinical applicability.
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Lim SC, Carey KT, McKenzie M. Anti-cancer analogues ME-143 and ME-344 exert toxicity by directly inhibiting mitochondrial NADH: ubiquinone oxidoreductase (Complex I). Am J Cancer Res 2015; 5:689-701. [PMID: 25973307 PMCID: PMC4396027] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/07/2014] [Accepted: 01/05/2015] [Indexed: 06/04/2023] Open
Abstract
Isoflavonoids have been shown to inhibit tumor proliferation and metastasis by activating cell death pathways. As such, they have been widely studied as potential therapies for cancer prevention. The second generation synthetic isoflavan analogues ME-143 and ME-344 also exhibit anti-cancer effects, however their specific molecular targets have not been completely defined. To identify these targets, we examined the effects of ME-143 and ME-344 on cellular metabolism and found that they are potent inhibitors of mitochondrial oxidative phosphorylation (OXPHOS) complex I (NADH: ubiquinone oxidoreductase) activity. In isolated HEK293T mitochondria, ME-143 and ME-344 reduced complex I activity to 14.3% and 28.6% of control values respectively. In addition to the inhibition of complex I, ME-344 also significantly inhibited mitochondrial complex III (ubiquinol: ferricytochrome-c oxidoreductase) activity by 10.8%. This inhibition of complex I activity (and to a lesser extent complex III activity) was associated with a reduction in mitochondrial oxygen consumption. In permeabilized HEK293T cells, ME-143 and ME-344 significantly reduced the maximum ADP-stimulated respiration rate to 62.3% and 70.0% of control levels respectively in the presence of complex I-linked substrates. Conversely, complex II-linked respiration was unaffected by either drug. We also observed that the inhibition of complex I-linked respiration caused the dissipation of the mitochondrial membrane potential (ΔΨm). Blue native (BN-PAGE) analysis revealed that prolonged loss of ΔΨm results in the destabilization of the native OXPHOS complexes. In particular, treatment of 143B osteosarcoma, HeLa and HEK293T human embryonic kidney cells with ME-344 for 4 h resulted in reduced steady-state levels of mature complex I. Degradation of the complex I subunit NDUFA9, as well as the complex IV (ferrocytochrome c: oxygen oxidoreductase) subunit COXIV, was also evident. The identification of OXPHOS complex I as a target of ME-143 and ME-344 advances our understanding of how these drugs induce cell death by disrupting mitochondrial metabolism, and will direct future work to maximize the anti-cancer capacity of these and other isoflavone-based compounds.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sze Chern Lim
- Centre for Genetic Diseases, MIMR-PHI Institute of Medical ResearchMelbourne, VIC 3168, Australia
| | - Kirstyn T Carey
- Centre for Genetic Diseases, MIMR-PHI Institute of Medical ResearchMelbourne, VIC 3168, Australia
- Present address: Centre for Cancer Research, MIMR-PHI Institute of Medical ResearchMelbourne, VIC 3168, Australia
| | - Matthew McKenzie
- Centre for Genetic Diseases, MIMR-PHI Institute of Medical ResearchMelbourne, VIC 3168, Australia
- Monash UniversityMelbourne, VIC 3800, Australia
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