1
|
Facchin C, Fraga-Timiraos AB, Schmitt J, Babaa N, Pannu N, Aliaga A, Larroque AL, Jean-Claude BJ. Molecular Analysis of the Superior Efficacy of a Dual Epidermal Growth Factor Receptor (EGFR)-DNA-Targeting Combi-Molecule in Comparison with Its Putative Prodrugs 6-Mono-Alkylamino- and 6,6-Dialkylaminoquinazoline in a Human Osteosarcoma Xenograft Model. Cells 2023; 12:914. [PMID: 36980255 PMCID: PMC10046901 DOI: 10.3390/cells12060914] [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: 12/19/2022] [Revised: 03/02/2023] [Accepted: 03/08/2023] [Indexed: 03/17/2023] Open
Abstract
Background: ZR2002 is a dual EGFR-DNA-targeting combi-molecule that carries a chloroethyl group at the six-position of the quinazoline ring designed to alkylate DNA. Despite its good pharmacokinetics, ZR2002 is metabolized in vivo into dechlorinated metabolites, losing the DNA-alkylating function required to damage DNA. To increase the DNA damage activity in tumor cells in vivo, we compared ZR2002 with two of its 6-N,N-disubstituted analogs: "JS61", with a nitrogen mustard function at the six-position of the quinazoline ring, and "JS84", with an N-methyl group. Methods: Tumor xenografts were performed with the human Saos-2 osteosarcoma cell line expressing EGFR. Mice were treated with ZR2002, JS84 or JS61, and the tumor burden was measured with a caliper and CT/PET imaging. Drug metabolism was analyzed with LC-MS. EGFR and ɣ-H2AX phosphorylation were quantified via Western blot analysis and immunohistochemistry. Results: In vivo analysis showed that significant tumor growth inhibition was only achieved when ZR2002 was administered in its naked form. The metabolic dealkylation of JS61 and JS84 did not release sufficient concentrations of ZR2002 for the intratumoral inhibition of P-EGFR or enhanced levels of P-H2AX. Conclusions: The results in toto suggest that intratumoral concentrations of intact ZR2002 are correlated with the highest inhibition of P-EGFR and induction of DNA damage in vivo. ZR2002 may well represent a good drug candidate for the treatment of EGFR-expressing osteosarcoma.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Caterina Facchin
- Cancer Drug Research Laboratory, The Research Institute of the McGill University Health Center (RI-MUHC), Department of Medicine, Faculty of Medicine and Health Sciences, McGill University, Montreal, QC H4A 3J1, Canada
| | | | | | | | | | | | | | - Bertrand J. Jean-Claude
- Cancer Drug Research Laboratory, The Research Institute of the McGill University Health Center (RI-MUHC), Department of Medicine, Faculty of Medicine and Health Sciences, McGill University, Montreal, QC H4A 3J1, Canada
| |
Collapse
|
2
|
Golabi N, Larroque AL, Peyrard L, Williams C, Jean-Claude BJ. Subcellular distribution and mechanism of action of AL906, a novel and potent EGFR inhibitor rationally designed to be green fluorescent. Invest New Drugs 2020; 39:240-250. [PMID: 32648119 DOI: 10.1007/s10637-020-00958-7] [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: 08/05/2019] [Accepted: 05/25/2020] [Indexed: 11/29/2022]
Abstract
To enhance the potency of EGFR inhibitors, we developed a novel strategy that seeks to conjugate EGFR to a bioactive moiety leading to a molecule termed "combi-molecule". In order to mimic the penetration of this type of molecules, based upon previously reported structure activity relationship studies, we designed a new molecule containing a quinazoline moiety tethered to a p-nitrobenzoxadiazole (NBD) moiety [molecular weight (MW) 700]. Despite its size, AL906 growth inhibitory activity was superior to that of the clinical drug gefitinib. Furthermore, AL906 retained significant EGFR inhibitory activity and good cellular penetration with abundant distribution in the perinuclear region of the cells. In an isogenic NIH3T3 transfected cell panel, it selectively inhibited the growth of the NIH3T3-EGFR and HER2 transfectants. Confocal microscopy analysis revealed that it was capable of penetrating multilayer aggregates although to a lesser extent than FD105, a small inhibitor of EGFR inhibitor of the same class (MW 300). Its ability to inhibit EGFR auto-phosphorylation in monolayer culture was stronger than in the aggregates. The results suggest that our strategy did not negatively affect EGFR inhibitory potency, EGFR selectivity and growth inhibition. However, its molecular size may account for its decreased aggregate penetration when compared with a smaller EGFR inhibitor of the quinazoline class.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Nahid Golabi
- Cancer Drug Research Laboratory, Department of Medicine, The Research Institute of the McGill University Health Center, 1001 Decarie, Montreal, Quebec, H4A 3J1, Canada
| | - Anne-Laure Larroque
- Cancer Drug Research Laboratory, Department of Medicine, The Research Institute of the McGill University Health Center, 1001 Decarie, Montreal, Quebec, H4A 3J1, Canada
| | - Lisa Peyrard
- Cancer Drug Research Laboratory, Department of Medicine, The Research Institute of the McGill University Health Center, 1001 Decarie, Montreal, Quebec, H4A 3J1, Canada
| | - Christopher Williams
- Scientific Support Chemical Computing Group Inc., Montreal, Quebec, H3A 2R7, Canada
| | - Bertrand J Jean-Claude
- Cancer Drug Research Laboratory, Department of Medicine, The Research Institute of the McGill University Health Center, 1001 Decarie, Montreal, Quebec, H4A 3J1, Canada.
| |
Collapse
|
3
|
Schmitt J, Goodfellow E, Huang S, Williams C, Gomes IN, Rosa MN, Reis RM, Yang R, Titi HM, Jean-Claude BJ. Comparative analysis of the dual EGFR-DNA targeting and growth inhibitory properties of 6-mono-alkylamino- and 6,6-dialkylaminoquinazoline-based type II combi-molecules. Eur J Med Chem 2020; 192:112185. [DOI: 10.1016/j.ejmech.2020.112185] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/19/2019] [Revised: 02/12/2020] [Accepted: 02/23/2020] [Indexed: 01/03/2023]
|
4
|
Sharifi Z, Abdulkarim B, Meehan B, Rak J, Daniel P, Schmitt J, Lauzon N, Eppert K, Duncan HM, Petrecca K, Guiot MC, Jean-Claude B, Sabri S. Mechanisms and Antitumor Activity of a Binary EGFR/DNA-Targeting Strategy Overcomes Resistance of Glioblastoma Stem Cells to Temozolomide. Clin Cancer Res 2019; 25:7594-7608. [PMID: 31540977 DOI: 10.1158/1078-0432.ccr-19-0955] [Citation(s) in RCA: 24] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/21/2019] [Revised: 06/21/2019] [Accepted: 09/18/2019] [Indexed: 11/16/2022]
Abstract
PURPOSE Glioblastoma (GBM) is a fatal primary malignant brain tumor. GBM stem cells (GSC) contribute to resistance to the DNA-damaging chemotherapy, temozolomide. The epidermal growth factor receptor (EGFR) displays genomic alterations enabling DNA repair mechanisms in half of GBMs. We aimed to investigate EGFR/DNA combi-targeting in GBM. EXPERIMENTAL DESIGN ZR2002 is a "combi-molecule" designed to inflict DNA damage through its chlorethyl moiety and induce irreversible EGFR tyrosine kinase inhibition. We assessed its in vitro efficacy in temozolomide-resistant patient-derived GSCs, mesenchymal temozolomide-sensitive and resistant in vivo-derived GSC sublines, and U87/EGFR isogenic cell lines stably expressing EGFR/wild-type or variant III (EGFRvIII). We evaluated its antitumor activity in mice harboring orthotopic EGFRvIII or mesenchymal TMZ-resistant GSC tumors. RESULTS ZR2002 induced submicromolar antiproliferative effects and inhibited neurosphere formation of all GSCs with marginal effects on normal human astrocytes. ZR2002 inhibited EGF-induced autophosphorylation of EGFR, downstream Erk1/2 phosphorylation, increased DNA strand breaks, and induced activation of wild-type p53; the latter was required for its cytotoxicity through p53-dependent mechanism. ZR2002 induced similar effects on U87/EGFR cell lines and its oral administration significantly increased survival in an orthotopic EGFRvIII mouse model. ZR2002 improved survival of mice harboring intracranial mesenchymal temozolomide-resistant GSC line, decreased EGFR, Erk1/2, and AKT phosphorylation and was detected in tumor brain tissue by MALDI imaging mass spectrometry. CONCLUSIONS These findings provide the molecular basis of binary EGFR/DNA targeting and uncover the oral bioavailability, blood-brain barrier permeability, and antitumor activity of ZR2002 supporting potential evaluation of this first-in-class drug in recurrent GBM.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Zeinab Sharifi
- Division of Experimental Medicine, McGill University, Montreal, Quebec, Canada.,Research Institute of McGill University Health Centre, Montreal, Quebec, Canada
| | - Bassam Abdulkarim
- Research Institute of McGill University Health Centre, Montreal, Quebec, Canada.,Department of Oncology, McGill University, Montreal, Quebec, Canada
| | - Brian Meehan
- Research Institute of McGill University Health Centre, Montreal, Quebec, Canada
| | - Janusz Rak
- Research Institute of McGill University Health Centre, Montreal, Quebec, Canada.,Department of Pediatrics, McGill University, Montreal, Quebec, Canada
| | - Paul Daniel
- Research Institute of McGill University Health Centre, Montreal, Quebec, Canada.,Department of Oncology, McGill University, Montreal, Quebec, Canada
| | - Julie Schmitt
- Research Institute of McGill University Health Centre, Montreal, Quebec, Canada.,Department of Medicine, McGill University, Montreal, Quebec, Canada
| | - Nidia Lauzon
- Research Institute of McGill University Health Centre, Montreal, Quebec, Canada
| | - Kolja Eppert
- Research Institute of McGill University Health Centre, Montreal, Quebec, Canada.,Department of Pediatrics, McGill University, Montreal, Quebec, Canada
| | - Heather M Duncan
- Division of Experimental Medicine, McGill University, Montreal, Quebec, Canada.,Research Institute of McGill University Health Centre, Montreal, Quebec, Canada
| | - Kevin Petrecca
- Department of Neurology and Neurosurgery, McGill University, Montreal, Quebec, Canada
| | - Marie-Christine Guiot
- Research Institute of McGill University Health Centre, Montreal, Quebec, Canada.,Department of Pathology, McGill University, Montreal, Quebec, Canada
| | - Bertrand Jean-Claude
- Research Institute of McGill University Health Centre, Montreal, Quebec, Canada.,Department of Medicine, McGill University, Montreal, Quebec, Canada
| | - Siham Sabri
- Research Institute of McGill University Health Centre, Montreal, Quebec, Canada. .,Department of Pathology, McGill University, Montreal, Quebec, Canada
| |
Collapse
|
5
|
NBGNU: a hypoxia-activated tripartite combi-nitrosourea prodrug overcoming AGT-mediated chemoresistance. Future Med Chem 2018; 11:269-284. [PMID: 30560688 DOI: 10.4155/fmc-2018-0511] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/25/2023] Open
Abstract
Aim: A hypoxia-activated combi-nitrosourea prodrug, N-(2-chloroethyl)-N'-2-(2-(4-nitrobenzylcarbamate)-O 6-benzyl-9-guanine)ethyl-N-nitrosourea (NBGNU), was synthesized and evaluated for its hypoxic selectivity and anticancer activity in vitro. Results: The prodrug was designed as a tripartite molecule consisting of a chloroethylnitrosourea pharmacophore to induce DNA interstrand crosslinks (ICLs) and an O 6-benzylguanine analog moiety masked by a 4-nitrobenzylcarbamate group to induce hypoxia-activated inhibition of O 6-alkylguanine-DNA alkyltransferase. NBGNU was tested for hypoxic selectivity, cytotoxicity and DNA ICLs ability. The reduction product amounts, cell death rates and DNA ICL levels induced by NBGNU under hypoxic conditions were all significantly higher than those induced by NBGNU under normoxic conditions. Conclusion: The tripartite combi-nitrosourea prodrug exhibits desirable tumor-hypoxia targeting ability and abolished chemoresistance compared with the conventional chloroethylnitrosoureas.
Collapse
|
6
|
Rupp M, Mouhri ZS, Williams C, Jean-Claude BJ. Molecular analysis of the dual targeting of the epidermal growth factor receptor and the O 6-methylguanine-DNA methyltransferase with a double arm hybrid molecule. Oncotarget 2018; 9:35041-35055. [PMID: 30416678 PMCID: PMC6205551 DOI: 10.18632/oncotarget.25120] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/12/2018] [Accepted: 03/06/2018] [Indexed: 11/25/2022] Open
Abstract
Disordered expression of the epidermal growth factor receptor (EGFR) has been associated with induction of DNA repair genes (e.g. XRCC1, ERCC1) and resistance to radiation and genotoxic drugs. However, our previous work showed that EGFR inhibition did not affect O6-methylguanine-DNA methyltransferase (MGMT)-mediated resistance. In order to block uncoupled events associated with EGFR and MGMT, we designed MR30, a single molecule termed “combi-molecule” that contains a quinazoline arm targeted to EGFR and an O6-benzylguanine (O6-BG) moiety to block MGMT. Molecular analysis of the mechanism of action of its two arms showed that: (a) it could block EGFR phosphorylation, (b) down-regulate the RAF-MAPK and the PI3K-AKT pathways, and (c) covalently modify MGMT through S-benzylation, as confirmed by MALDI analysis of a direct binding assay with isolated MGMT, (d) it induced a dose-dependent down-regulation of MGMT in lung and melanoma cells. The pleiotropic mechanism of action of MR30 culminated into strong growth inhibition (IC50: 0.018-6.02 μM), with superior activity when compared with an equimolar combination of gefitinib (a clinical EGFR inhibitor) and O6-BG (a known MGMT inhibitor). Pulse exposure experiments were required to attenuate the contribution of EGFR inhibition to the strong potency of MR30, thereby allowing to achieve the dose level required to sensitize cells to temozolomide (TMZ). Indeed, MR30 significantly sensitized EGFR-MGMT co-expressing cells to TMZ (p<0.05-0.0001). The results in toto suggest that MR30 is the first prototype of agents that may be used against tumours addicted to EGFR and to sensitize resistant tumours co-expressing EGFR and MGMT to TMZ.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Martin Rupp
- Cancer Drug Research Laboratory, Department of Medicine, Division of Medical Oncology, The Research Institute of the McGill University Health Center/Glen Hospital, Montreal, QC, H4A 3J1, Canada
| | - Zhor Senhaji Mouhri
- Cancer Drug Research Laboratory, Department of Medicine, Division of Medical Oncology, The Research Institute of the McGill University Health Center/Glen Hospital, Montreal, QC, H4A 3J1, Canada
| | - Christopher Williams
- Scientific Support, Chemical Computing Group Inc., Montreal, QC, H3A 2R7, Canada
| | - Bertrand J Jean-Claude
- Cancer Drug Research Laboratory, Department of Medicine, Division of Medical Oncology, The Research Institute of the McGill University Health Center/Glen Hospital, Montreal, QC, H4A 3J1, Canada
| |
Collapse
|
7
|
Hameed A, Al-Rashida M, Uroos M, Ali SA, Arshia, Ishtiaq M, Khan KM. Quinazoline and quinazolinone as important medicinal scaffolds: a comparative patent review (2011-2016). Expert Opin Ther Pat 2018; 28:281-297. [PMID: 29368977 DOI: 10.1080/13543776.2018.1432596] [Citation(s) in RCA: 140] [Impact Index Per Article: 23.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/18/2022]
Abstract
INTRODUCTION Quinazoline and quinazolinone scaffolds represent an important class of biologically active nitrogen heterocyclic compounds. A variety of marketed drugs are based on these moieties. A diverse range of molecules with quinazoline/quinazolinone moieties have been reported to exhibit broad spectrum of biological activities. AREAS COVERED This review covers recent efforts in the synthesis and biological screening of quinazoline/quinazolinone based compounds from 2011-2016. EXPERT OPINION Quinazoline and quinazolinones represent a diverse class of biologically active nitrogen heterocyclic compounds with immense therapeutic potential. Their ease of synthetic accessibility, and flexibility in structural modifications and functionalization further adds to their appeal in medicinal chemistry. A number of currently available drugs are based on quinazoline/quinazolinone scaffold. It is interesting to note that, among the recent patents available, a lot of them focus on the promising anticancer activity of quinazoline and quinazolinone containing compounds. However their biological activity is certainly not limited to anticancer only, they are also known to elicit a number of other biological and physiological effects in vitro and in vivo respectively. The interest in quinazolines and quinazolinones is ever growing, since they offer a fairly diverse chemical space for exploration of medicinal potential.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Abdul Hameed
- a H. E. J. Research Institute of Chemistry, International Center for Chemical and Biological Sciences , University of Karachi , Karachi , Pakistan
| | - Mariya Al-Rashida
- b Department of Chemistry , Forman Christian College (A Chartered University) , Lahore , Pakistan
| | - Maliha Uroos
- c Institute of Chemistry , University of the Punjab , Lahore , Pakistan
| | - Syed Abid Ali
- a H. E. J. Research Institute of Chemistry, International Center for Chemical and Biological Sciences , University of Karachi , Karachi , Pakistan
| | - Arshia
- a H. E. J. Research Institute of Chemistry, International Center for Chemical and Biological Sciences , University of Karachi , Karachi , Pakistan
| | - Marium Ishtiaq
- a H. E. J. Research Institute of Chemistry, International Center for Chemical and Biological Sciences , University of Karachi , Karachi , Pakistan
| | - Khalid Mohammed Khan
- a H. E. J. Research Institute of Chemistry, International Center for Chemical and Biological Sciences , University of Karachi , Karachi , Pakistan
| |
Collapse
|
8
|
Abstract
DNA-damaging agents, such as methylating agents, chloroethylating agents and platinum-based agents, have been extensively used as anticancer drugs. However, the side effects, high toxicity, lack of selectivity and resistance severely limit their clinical applications. In recent years, a strategy combining a DNA-damaging agent with a bioactive molecule (e.g., enzyme inhibitors) or carrier (e.g., steroid hormone and DNA intercalators) to produce a new 'combi-molecule' with improved efficacy or selectivity has been attempted to overcome these drawbacks. The combi-molecule simultaneously acts on two targets and is expected to possess better potency than the parent compounds. Many studies have shown DNA-damaging combi-molecules exhibiting excellent anticancer activity in vitro and in vivo. This review focuses on the development of combi-molecules, which possess increased DNA-damaging potency, anticancer efficacy and tumor selectivity and reduced side reactions than the parent compounds. The future opportunities and challenges in the discovery of combi-molecules were also discussed.
Collapse
|
9
|
Wang Y, Ren T, Lai X, Sun G, Zhao L, Zhang N, Zhong R. Synthesis and Antitumor Activity Evaluation of a Novel Combi-nitrosourea Prodrug: BGCNU. ACS Med Chem Lett 2017; 8:174-178. [PMID: 28197307 DOI: 10.1021/acsmedchemlett.6b00358] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/11/2016] [Accepted: 01/13/2017] [Indexed: 12/21/2022] Open
Abstract
Chloroethylnitrosoureas (CENUs) are an important type of alkylating agent employed in the clinical treatment of cancer. However, the anticancer efficacy of CENUs is greatly decreased by a DNA repairing enzyme, O6-alkylguanine-DNA alkyltransferase (AGT), by preventing the formation of interstrand cross-links (ICLs). In this study, a combi-nitrosourea prodrug, namely, N-(2-chloroethyl)-N'-2-(O6-benzyl-9-guanine)ethyl-N-nitrosourea (BGCNU), which possesses an O6-benzylguanine (O6-BG) derivative and CENU pharmacophores simultaneously, was synthesized and evaluated for its ability to induce ICLs. The target compound is markedly more cytotoxic in human glioma cells than the clinically used CENU chemotherapies ACNU, BCNU, and their respective combinations with O6-BG. In the AGT-proficient cells, significantly higher levels of DNA ICLs were observed in the groups treated by BGCNU than those by ACNU and BCNU, which indicated that the activity of AGT was effectively inhibited by the O6-BG derivatives released from BGCNU.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Yameng Wang
- Beijing Key Laboratory of
Environmental and Viral Oncology, College of Life Science and Bioengineering, Beijing University of Technology, Beijing 100124, P. R. China
| | - Ting Ren
- Beijing Key Laboratory of
Environmental and Viral Oncology, College of Life Science and Bioengineering, Beijing University of Technology, Beijing 100124, P. R. China
| | - Xinxin Lai
- Beijing Key Laboratory of
Environmental and Viral Oncology, College of Life Science and Bioengineering, Beijing University of Technology, Beijing 100124, P. R. China
| | - Guohui Sun
- Beijing Key Laboratory of
Environmental and Viral Oncology, College of Life Science and Bioengineering, Beijing University of Technology, Beijing 100124, P. R. China
| | - Lijiao Zhao
- Beijing Key Laboratory of
Environmental and Viral Oncology, College of Life Science and Bioengineering, Beijing University of Technology, Beijing 100124, P. R. China
| | - Na Zhang
- Beijing Key Laboratory of
Environmental and Viral Oncology, College of Life Science and Bioengineering, Beijing University of Technology, Beijing 100124, P. R. China
| | - Rugang Zhong
- Beijing Key Laboratory of
Environmental and Viral Oncology, College of Life Science and Bioengineering, Beijing University of Technology, Beijing 100124, P. R. China
| |
Collapse
|
10
|
Reversibility of regorafenib effects in hepatocellular carcinoma cells. Cancer Chemother Pharmacol 2014; 72:869-77. [PMID: 23959464 DOI: 10.1007/s00280-013-2269-8] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/20/2013] [Accepted: 08/10/2013] [Indexed: 02/08/2023]
Abstract
PURPOSE Multikinase growth inhibitors inhibit their target kinases with varying potency. Patients often require lower doses or therapy breaks due to drug toxicities. To evaluate the effects of drug withdrawal on hepatocellular carcinoma cells after incubation with growth-inhibitory concentrations of regorafenib, cell growth, migration and invasion, and signaling were examined. METHODS Cell proliferation, motility, and invasion were analyzed by MTT, wound healing, and invasion assays, respectively, and MAPK pathway protein markers were analyzed by Western blot. RESULTS After regorafenib removal, cell growth, migration, and invasion recovered. Repeated drug exposure resulted in changes in cell growth patterns. Recovery could be blocked by sub-growth-inhibitory concentrations of either doxorubicin or vitamin K1. Recovery of growth was associated with increased phospho-JNK, phospho-p38, and phospho-STAT3 levels. The recovery of growth, migration, and signaling were blocked by a JNK inhibitor. CONCLUSIONS Removal of regorafenib from growth-inhibited cells resulted in a JNK-dependent recovery of growth and migration.
Collapse
|
11
|
Golabi N, Brahimi F, Huang Y, Rachid Z, Qiu Q, Larroque-Lombard AL, Jean-Claude BJ. A bioanalytical investigation on the exquisitely strong in vitro potency of the EGFR–DNA targeting type II combi-molecule ZR2003 and its mitigated in vivo antitumour activity. J Pharm Biomed Anal 2011; 56:592-9. [DOI: 10.1016/j.jpba.2011.06.013] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/14/2010] [Revised: 06/16/2011] [Accepted: 06/17/2011] [Indexed: 11/29/2022]
|
12
|
Receptor activation and inhibition in cellular response to chemotherapeutic combinational mimicries: the concept of divergent targeting. J Neurooncol 2010; 100:345-61. [PMID: 20467786 DOI: 10.1007/s11060-010-0196-7] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/15/2009] [Accepted: 04/13/2010] [Indexed: 10/19/2022]
Abstract
The antiproliferative effect of tandem somatostatin receptor (SSTR) activation, epidermal growth factor receptor (EGFR) inhibition, and induction of DNA damage was analyzed using octreotide (OCT), a SSTR agonist, the clinical DNA methylating agent temozolomide (TMZ), Iressa, an EGFR inhibitor, and dual EGFR-DNA targeting agents termed "combi-molecules". Using SSTR-expressing glioma cells harbouring low levels of EGFR (U87MG) or transfected to overexpress EGFR (U87/EGFR) or a variant (U87/EGFRvIII), we showed that Iressa, alone or in combination with the DNA damaging agent TMZ, and combi-molecules RA2 and RA5 inhibited EGF-induced phosphorylation of EGFR in U87MG and more moderately in U87/EGFR and U87/EGFRvIII transfected cells. This translated into equivalent levels of Erk 1/2 inhibition. Activation of SSTRs with OCT did not modulate the effects of the various treatments on Erk 1/2 phosphorylation. Likewise, SSTR activation did not alter TMZ- or DNA-damaging combi-molecules, RA2 and RA5, induced p53 activation nor upregulation. However, SSTR activation significantly shifted TMZ-, RA2- and RA5-induced cell-cycle arrest to earlier phases (i.e., G2/M to late S, late S to S, S to G1). Further analysis showed that apoptosis was not induced. This was in agreement with the fact that p53 activation did not induce Bax upregulation nor did EGFR inhibition promote Bad dephosphorylation. Moreover, enhancement of survivin, an anti-apoptotic protein, expression was observed. The results in toto suggest that the combination of SSTR activation with EGFR inhibition and DNA damage affects cell-cycle progression but a disconnection between the targeted signalling pathways in these brain tumour cells precludes synergistic cell-killing by the triple growth inhibitory events.
Collapse
|
13
|
MacPhee M, Rachid Z, Todorova M, Qiu Q, Belinsky G, Jean-Claude BJ. Characterization of the potency of epidermal growth factor (EGFR)-DNA targeting combi-molecules containing a hydrolabile carbamate at the 3-position of the triazene chain. Invest New Drugs 2010; 29:833-45. [DOI: 10.1007/s10637-010-9431-5] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/26/2010] [Accepted: 04/06/2010] [Indexed: 11/24/2022]
|
14
|
Larroque-Lombard AL, Todorova M, Golabi N, Williams C, Jean-Claude BJ. Synthesis and uptake of fluorescence-labeled Combi-molecules by P-glycoprotein-proficient and -deficient uterine sarcoma cells MES-SA and MES-SA/DX5. J Med Chem 2010; 53:2104-13. [PMID: 20151639 DOI: 10.1021/jm9016043] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/29/2022]
Abstract
Here, we report on the first synthesis of fluorescent-labeled epidermal growth factor receptor-DNA targeting combi-molecules, and we studied the influence of P-glycoprotein status of human sarcoma MES-SA cells on their growth inhibitory effect and cellular uptake. The results showed that 6, bearing a longer spacer between the quinazoline ring and the dansyl group, was more stable and more cytotoxic than 4. In contrast to the latter, it induced significant levels of DNA damage in human tumor cells. Moreover, in contrast to doxorubicin, a drug known to be actively effluxed by P-gp, the more stable combi-molecule 6 induced almost identical levels of drug uptake and DNA damage in P-gp-proficient and -deficient cells. Likewise, in contrast to doxorubicin, 4 and 6 exerted equal levels of antiproliferative activity against the two cell types. The results in toto suggest that despite their size, the antiproliferative effects of 4 and 6 were independent of P-gp status of the cells.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Anne-Laure Larroque-Lombard
- Cancer Drug Research Laboratory, Department of Medicine, Division of Medical Oncology, McGill University Health Center/Royal Victoria Hospital, 687 Pine Avenue West Room M-719, Montreal, Quebec H3A 1A1, Canada
| | | | | | | | | |
Collapse
|
15
|
Todorova MI, Larroque AL, Dauphin-Pierre S, Fang YQ, Jean-Claude BJ. Subcellular distribution of a fluorescence-labeled combi-molecule designed to block epidermal growth factor receptor tyrosine kinase and damage DNA with a green fluorescent species. Mol Cancer Ther 2010; 9:869-82. [PMID: 20354119 DOI: 10.1158/1535-7163.mct-09-0673] [Citation(s) in RCA: 17] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/16/2022]
Abstract
To monitor the subcellular distribution of mixed epidermal growth factor (EGF) receptor (EGFR)-DNA targeting drugs termed combi-molecules, we designed AL237, a fluorescent prototype, to degrade into a green fluorescent DNA damaging species and FD105, a blue fluorescent EGFR inhibitor. Here we showed that AL237 damaged DNA in the 12.5 to 50 mumol/L range. Despite its size, it blocked EGFR phosphorylation in an enzyme assay (IC(50) = 0.27 mumol/L) and in MDA-MB468 breast cancer cells in the same concentration range as for DNA damage. This translated into inhibition of extracellular signal-regulated kinase 1/2 or BAD phosphorylation and downregulation of DNA repair proteins (XRCC1, ERCC1). Having shown that AL237 was a balanced EGFR-DNA targeting molecule, it was used as an imaging probe to show that (a) green and blue colors were primarily colocalized in the perinuclear and partially in the nucleus in EGFR- or ErbB2-expressing cells, (b) the blue fluorescence associated with FD105, but not the green, was colocalized with anti-EGFR red-labeled antibody, (c) the green fluorescence of nuclei was significantly more intense in NIH 3T3 cells expressing EGFR or ErbB2 than in their wild-type counterparts (P < 0.05). Similarly, the growth inhibitory potency of AL237 was selectively stronger in the transfectants. In summary, the results suggest that AL237 diffuses into the cells and localizes abundantly in the perinuclear region and partially in the nucleus where it degrades into EGFR and DNA targeting species. This bystander-like effect translates into high levels of DNA damage in the nucleus. Sufficient quinazoline levels are released in the cells to block EGF-induced activation of downstream signaling. Mol Cancer Ther; 9(4); 869-82. (c)2010 AACR.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Margarita I Todorova
- Cancer Drug Research Laboratory, Department of Medicine, Division of Medical Oncology, McGill University/Royal Victoria Hospital, 687 Pine Avenue West, Montreal, Quebec, Canada H3A 1A1
| | | | | | | | | |
Collapse
|
16
|
Banerjee R, Huang Y, McNamee JP, Todorova M, Jean-Claude BJ. The combi-targeting concept: selective targeting of the epidermal growth factor receptor- and Her2-expressing cancer cells by the complex combi-molecule RB24. J Pharmacol Exp Ther 2010; 334:9-20. [PMID: 20348204 DOI: 10.1124/jpet.109.160085] [Citation(s) in RCA: 14] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/22/2022] Open
Abstract
Within the context of a new tumor-targeting strategy termed "combi-targeting," we designed RB24 to inhibit epidermal growth factor receptor (EGFR) or Her2 phosphorylation and to further degrade upon hydrolysis to 4-(3'-bromophenylamino)-6-aminoquinazoline (RB10; another EGFR/Her2 inhibitor) plus a strong DNA-alkylating species. 6-(3-Acetoxymethyl-3-methyltriazenyl)-4-(3'-bromophenylamino)quinazoline (RB24) showed significant antiproliferative activity against human breast cancer cells, and transfection of one such cell line, MDA-MB-435, with ErbB1 or ErbB2 (Her2) dramatically enhanced cell death by apoptosis. RB24 was capable of releasing 2- to 3-fold higher levels of RB10 in the transfectants than in their wild-type counterparts. More importantly, RB10 was abundantly distributed in the perinuclear region of the cells, and its elevated levels in the ErbB transfectants were concomitant with increased levels of DNA lesions in the latter cells. This selectivity could be abolished by coincubation of the cells with exogenous RB10, suggesting that the entire combi-molecule may bind primarily to its cognate perinuclear sites before degradation. This localization may exert a bystander effect, allowing the alkylating species to be abundantly propagated into the nucleus. Cell response to this novel targeting mechanism was mediated by 1) activation of c-Jun NH(2)-terminal kinase in response to DNA damage and 2) down-regulation of Bad through blockade of EGFR tyrosine kinase activity: two events that cooperatively converged into enhancement of apoptosis in the oncogene-transfected cells.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Ranjita Banerjee
- Department of Medicine, Division of Medical Oncology, McGill University Health Center/Royal Victoria Hospital, Montreal, Quebec, Canada
| | | | | | | | | |
Collapse
|
17
|
Abstract
ZRBA1 is a molecule termed 'combi-molecule' designed to induce DNA-alkylating lesions and to block epidermal growth factor receptor (EGFR) tyrosine kinase. Owing to its ability to downregulate the EGFR tyrosine kinase-mediated antiapoptotic signaling and DNA repair proteins, we inferred that it could significantly sensitize cells to ionizing radiation. Using the MDA-MB-468 human breast cancer cell line in which ZRBA1 has already been reported to induce significant EGFR/DNA-targeting potency, the results showed that: (i) concurrent administration of ZRBA1 and 4 Gy radiation led to a significant decrease in cell viability, (ii) the greater efficacy of the combination was sequential, being limited to conditions wherein the drug was administered concurrently with radiation or before radiation, and (iii) the efficacy enhancement of the combination was further confirmed by clonogenic assays from which a dose enhancement factor of 1.34 could be observed at survival fraction of 0.01. Flow cytometric analysis showed significant enhancement of cell cycle arrest in G2/M (P<0.046, irradiated cells vs. cells treated with ZRBA1 and radiation) and increased apoptosis when ZRBA1 was combined with radiation. Likewise, significant levels of double-strand breaks were observed for the combination, as determined by neutral comet assay (P<0.045, irradiated cells vs. cells treated with ZRBA1 and radiation). These results in toto suggest that the superior efficacy of the ZRBA1 plus radiation combination may be secondary to the ability of ZRBA1 to arrest the cells in G2/M, a cell cycle phase in which tumor cells are sensitive to radiation. Furthermore, the increased levels of DNA damage, combined with the concomitant downregulation of EGFR-mediated signaling by ZRBA1, may account for the significant levels of cell killing induced by the combination.
Collapse
|
18
|
Rachid Z, MacPhee M, Williams C, Todorova M, Jean-Claude BJ. Design and synthesis of new stabilized combi-triazenes for targeting solid tumors expressing the epidermal growth factor receptor (EGFR) or its closest homologue HER2. Bioorg Med Chem Lett 2009; 19:5505-9. [DOI: 10.1016/j.bmcl.2009.05.060] [Citation(s) in RCA: 18] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/15/2009] [Revised: 05/14/2009] [Accepted: 05/14/2009] [Indexed: 11/27/2022]
|
19
|
Cavazzoni A, Alfieri RR, Carmi C, Zuliani V, Galetti M, Fumarola C, Frazzi R, Bonelli M, Bordi F, Lodola A, Mor M, Petronini PG. Dual mechanisms of action of the 5-benzylidene-hydantoin UPR1024 on lung cancer cell lines. Mol Cancer Ther 2008; 7:361-70. [DOI: 10.1158/1535-7163.mct-07-0477] [Citation(s) in RCA: 55] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/16/2022]
|
20
|
Andreani A, Burnelli S, Granaiola M, Leoni A, Locatelli A, Morigi R, Rambaldi M, Varoli L, Calonghi N, Cappadone C, Farruggia G, Zini M, Stefanelli C, Masotti L. Substituted E-3-(2-chloro-3-indolylmethylene)1,3-dihydroindol-2-ones with antitumor activity. Effect on the cell cycle and apoptosis. J Med Chem 2007; 50:3167-72. [PMID: 17559205 DOI: 10.1021/jm070235m] [Citation(s) in RCA: 18] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/29/2022]
Abstract
The synthesis and antitumor activity of new E-3-(2-chloro-3-indolylmethylene)1,3-dihydroindol-2-ones is described. They were studied at the National Cancer Institute, taking into consideration the 50% growth inhibitory power (pGI50), the cytostatic effect (pTGI = total growth inhibition), and the cytotoxic effect (pLC50). All the compounds were potent growth inhibitors, with mean pGI50 ranging from 5.26 to 7.72. They were also analyzed with NCI COMPARE algorithm. Further studies were dedicated to the effects on the cell cycle and apoptosis.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Aldo Andreani
- Dipartimento di Scienze Farmaceutiche, Università di Bologna, Via Belmeloro 6, 40126 Bologna, Italy.
| | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | |
Collapse
|
21
|
Qiu Q, Domarkas J, Banerjee R, Merayo N, Brahimi F, McNamee JP, Gibbs BF, Jean-Claude BJ. The Combi-Targeting Concept: In vitro and In vivo Fragmentation of a Stable Combi-Nitrosourea Engineered to Interact with the Epidermal Growth Factor Receptor while Remaining DNA Reactive. Clin Cancer Res 2007; 13:331-40. [PMID: 17200372 DOI: 10.1158/1078-0432.ccr-06-0812] [Citation(s) in RCA: 18] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/16/2022]
Abstract
PURPOSE JDA58 (NSC 741282), a "combi-molecule" optimized in the context of the "combi-targeting concept," is a nitrosourea moiety tethered to an anilinoquinazoline. Here, we sought to show its binary epidermal growth factor receptor (EGFR)/DNA targeting property and to study its fragmentation in vitro and in vivo. EXPERIMENTAL DESIGN The fragmentation of JDA58 was detected in cells in vitro and in vivo by fluorescence microscopy and tandem mass spectrometry. EGFR phosphorylation and DNA damage were determined by Western blotting and comet assay, respectively. Tumor data were examined for statistical significance using the Student's t test. RESULTS JDA58 inhibited EGFR tyrosine kinase (IC(50), 0.2 micromol/L) and blocked EGFR phosphorylation in human DU145 prostate cancer cells. It induced significant levels of DNA damage in DU145 cells in vitro or in vivo and showed potent antiproliferative activity both in vitro and in a DU145 xenograft model. In cell-free medium, JDA58 was hydrolyzed to JDA35, a fluorescent amine that could be observed in tumor cells both in vitro and in vivo. In tumor cells in vitro or in vivo, or in plasma collected from mice, the denitrosated species JDA41 was the predominant metabolite. However, mass spectrometric analysis revealed detectable levels of the hydrolytic product JDA35 in tumor cells both in vitro and in vivo. CONCLUSIONS The results in toto suggest that growth inhibition in vitro and in vivo may be sustained by the intact combi-molecule plus JDA35 plus JDA41, three inhibitors of EGFR, and the concomitantly released DNA-damaging species. This leads to a model wherein a single molecule carries a complex multitargeted-multidrug combination.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Qiyu Qiu
- Cancer Drug Research Laboratory, Department of Medicine, McGill University Health Center/Royal Victoria Hospital, Montreal, Quebec, Canada
| | | | | | | | | | | | | | | |
Collapse
|
22
|
Grunt TW, Tomek K, Wagner R, Puckmair K, Kainz B, Rünzler D, Gaiger A, Köhler G, Zielinski CC. Upregulation of retinoic acid receptor-β by the epidermal growth factor-receptor inhibitor PD153035 is not mediated by blockade of ErbB pathways. J Cell Physiol 2007; 211:803-15. [PMID: 17286282 DOI: 10.1002/jcp.20990] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/11/2022]
Abstract
Inhibiting epidermal growth factor-receptor (ErbB-1) represents a powerful anticancer strategy. Activation of retinoid pathways is also in development for cancer treatment. Retinoic acid receptor-beta-the tumor suppressor and main retinoid mediator--is silenced in many tumors. The ErbB-1 inhibitor PD153035 cooperates with retinoic acid during growth inhibition and induces retinoic acid receptor-beta suggesting that ErbB-1 controls retinoic acid receptor-beta. However, here we demonstrate that ErbB pathways are not involved in PD153035-mediated retinoic acid receptor-beta-upregulation. PD153035 inhibits ErbB-1-phosphorylation, whereas its derivative EBE-A22 is inactive. Yet both inhibit cell growth and upregulate retinoic acid receptor-beta in ErbB-1-overexpressing (MDA-MB-468), moderately expressing (OVCAR-3), ErbB-1-negative (MDA-MB-453) or ErbB-negative cells (CEM, Jurkat). Both bind DNA, whereas the closely related ErbB-1 inhibitors AG1478 and ZD1839, which are inactive on retinoic acid receptor-beta, do not significantly bind DNA. None of the other ErbB-1/ErbB-2 inhibitors tested (RG-14620, LFM-A12, AG879, AG825) affect retinoic acid receptor-beta. PD153035 decreases methylation of the retinoic acid receptor-beta2 promoter. In OVCAR-3, it stimulates dislodgement of histone deacetylase 1 from the promoter and acetylation of histones H3 and H4. Consequently, PD153035 facilitates recruitment of RNA polymerase II to the promoter and stimulates transcriptional activity. Moreover, PD153035 increases the retinoic acid receptor-beta mRNA half-life. No other retinoid receptor, nor estrogen receptor-alpha, nor RASSF1A is upregulated by PD153035. Thus PD153035 induces retinoic acid receptor-beta by ErbB-independent transcriptional and post-transcriptional mechanisms. This report highlights a triple action for an ErbB-1 inhibitor (ErbB-1 inhibition, DNA intercalation, retinoic acid receptor-beta-induction). Such multitargeting drugs bear great potential for cancer treatment.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Thomas W Grunt
- Department of Medicine I, Division of Oncology, Signaling Networks Program, Medical University of Vienna, Vienna, Austria.
| | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | |
Collapse
|
23
|
Andreani A, Burnelli S, Granaiola M, Leoni A, Locatelli A, Morigi R, Rambaldi M, Varoli L, Kunkel MW. Antitumor Activity of Substituted E-3-(3,4,5-Trimethoxybenzylidene)-1,3-dihydroindol-2-ones. J Med Chem 2006; 49:6922-4. [PMID: 17154522 DOI: 10.1021/jm0607808] [Citation(s) in RCA: 51] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/29/2022]
Abstract
The design and synthesis of anticancer E-3-(3,4,5-trimethoxybenzylidene)-1,3-dihydroindol-2-ones is reported. Strong COMPARE correlations among the cell line responses suggest that these compounds may be acting similarly through a combination of different mechanisms of action. The 5-methoxy derivative (2h) was the most active compound with a mean pGI50 of 6.34, and it is now under review by Biological Evaluation Committee of the National Cancer Institute for possible further studies.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Aldo Andreani
- Dipartimento di Scienze Farmaceutiche, Università di Bologna, Via Belmeloro 6, 40126 Bologna, Italy.
| | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | |
Collapse
|
24
|
Abstract
After more than three decades of its declaration, the war against cancer still appears far from being won. Although there have been decisive victories in a few battles, such as the one against testicular cancer, the overall result is sobering. Hopes for an imminent cure had been raised among the public by the promises of molecular biology, combinatorial chemistry and high-throughput screening. These promises have manifested themselves in the widely proclaimed strategy of rationally targeted anticancer drug discovery, which may be summarized as the 'one-gene-one target-one drug' approach. Over the years, however, it has gradually become clear that, in most cases, treatment of cancer with a single drug may at best delay progression of the disease but is unlikely to lead to a cure. Thus, it appears that rationally targeted monotherapy will have to be replaced by rationally targeted combination therapy. Inhibitors of NF-kappaB look likely to become an important weapon in the anticancer combination therapy arsenal.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Burkhard Haefner
- Department of Oncology, Johnson & Johnson Pharmaceutical Research and Development, Beerse, Belgium
| |
Collapse
|
25
|
Rachid Z, Brahimi F, Domarkas J, Jean-Claude BJ. Synthesis of half-mustard combi-molecules with fluorescence properties: correlation with EGFR status. Bioorg Med Chem Lett 2005; 15:1135-8. [PMID: 15686928 DOI: 10.1016/j.bmcl.2004.12.015] [Citation(s) in RCA: 26] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/21/2004] [Revised: 11/23/2004] [Accepted: 12/06/2004] [Indexed: 11/29/2022]
Abstract
The synthesis of 6-(2-chloroethylamino)-4-anilinoquinazolines ZR2002 and ZR2003 designed to block EGFR tyrosine kinase and to damage genomic DNA is described. These compounds present fluorescence properties that permitted the quantitation of their subcellular uptake by flow cytometry. Fluorescence intensities increased with increasing levels of EGFR in a panel of isogenic and established cell lines.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Zakaria Rachid
- Cancer Drug Research Laboratory, Division of Medical Oncology, Department of Medicine, McGill University/Royal Victoria Hospital, 687 Pine Avenue west Rm M-719, Montreal, Québec, Canada H3A 1A1
| | | | | | | |
Collapse
|