1
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Walker RL, Hornicek FJ, Duan Z. Transcriptional regulation and therapeutic potential of cyclin-dependent kinase 9 (CDK9) in sarcoma. Biochem Pharmacol 2024; 226:116342. [PMID: 38848777 DOI: 10.1016/j.bcp.2024.116342] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/01/2024] [Revised: 05/17/2024] [Accepted: 06/04/2024] [Indexed: 06/09/2024]
Abstract
Sarcomas include various subtypes comprising two significant groups - soft tissue and bone sarcomas. Although the survival rate for some sarcoma subtypes has improved over time, the current methods of treatment remain efficaciously limited, as recurrent, and metastatic diseases remain a major obstacle. There is a need for better options and therapeutic strategies in treating sarcoma. Cyclin dependent kinase 9 (CDK9) is a transcriptional kinase and has emerged as a promising target for treating various cancers. The aberrant expression and activation of CDK9 have been observed in several sarcoma subtypes, including rhabdomyosarcoma, synovial sarcoma, osteosarcoma, Ewing sarcoma, and chordoma. Enhanced CDK9 expression has also been correlated with poorer prognosis in sarcoma patients. As a master regulator of transcription, CDK9 promotes transcription elongation by phosphorylation and releasing RNA polymerase II (RNAPII) from its promoter proximal pause. Release of RNAPII from this pause induces transcription of critical genes in the tumor cell. Overexpression and activation of CDK9 have been observed to lead to the expression of oncogenes, including MYC and MCL-1, that aid sarcoma development and progression. Inhibition of CDK9 in sarcoma has been proven to reduce these oncogenes' expression and decrease proliferation and growth in different sarcoma cells. Currently, there are several CDK9 inhibitors in preclinical and clinical investigations. This review aims to highlight the recent discovery and results on the transcriptional role and therapeutic potential of CDK9 in sarcoma.
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Affiliation(s)
- Robert L Walker
- Department of Orthopedic Surgery, Sarcoma Biology Laboratory, Sylvester Comprehensive Cancer Center, and the University of Miami Miller School of Medicine, Papanicolaou Cancer Research Building, 1550 N.W. 10(th) Avenue, Miami, FL 33136. USA
| | - Francis J Hornicek
- Department of Orthopedic Surgery, Sarcoma Biology Laboratory, Sylvester Comprehensive Cancer Center, and the University of Miami Miller School of Medicine, Papanicolaou Cancer Research Building, 1550 N.W. 10(th) Avenue, Miami, FL 33136. USA
| | - Zhenfeng Duan
- Department of Orthopedic Surgery, Sarcoma Biology Laboratory, Sylvester Comprehensive Cancer Center, and the University of Miami Miller School of Medicine, Papanicolaou Cancer Research Building, 1550 N.W. 10(th) Avenue, Miami, FL 33136. USA.
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2
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Kwon MR, Park JS, Ko EJ, Park J, Ju EJ, Shin SH, Son GW, Lee HW, Park YY, Kang MH, Kim YJ, Kim BM, Lee HJ, Kim TW, Kim CJ, Song SY, Park SS, Jeong SY. Ibulocydine Inhibits Migration and Invasion of TNBC Cells via MMP-9 Regulation. Int J Mol Sci 2024; 25:6123. [PMID: 38892310 PMCID: PMC11173234 DOI: 10.3390/ijms25116123] [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: 04/25/2024] [Revised: 05/21/2024] [Accepted: 05/28/2024] [Indexed: 06/21/2024] Open
Abstract
Triple-negative breast cancer (TNBC) accounts for approximately 15-20% of all breast cancer types, indicating a poor survival prognosis with a more aggressive biology of metastasis to the lung and a short response duration to available therapies. Ibulocydine (IB) is a novel (cyclin-dependent kinase) CDK7/9 inhibitor prodrug displaying potent anti-cancer effects against various cancer cell types. We performed in vitro and in vivo experiments to determine whether IB inhibits metastasis and eventually overcomes the poor drug response in TNBC. The result showed that IB inhibited the growth of TNBC cells by inducing caspase-mediated apoptosis and blocking metastasis by reducing MMP-9 expression in vitro. Concurrently, in vivo experiments using the metastasis model showed that IB inhibited metastasis of MDA-MB-231-Luc cells to the lung. Collectively, these results demonstrate that IB inhibited the growth of TNBC cells and blocked metastasis by regulating MMP-9 expression, suggesting a novel therapeutic agent for metastatic TNBC.
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Affiliation(s)
- Mi-Ri Kwon
- Department of Medical Science, Asan Medical Institute of Convergence Science and Technology, University of Ulsan College of Medicine, Seoul 05505, Republic of Korea
- Asan Institute for Life Sciences, Asan Medical Center, Seoul 05505, Republic of Korea
- Asan Preclinical Evaluation Center for Cancer Therapeutix, Asan Medical Center, Seoul 05505, Republic of Korea
| | - Ji-Soo Park
- Department of Chemistry, Seoul National University, Seoul 08826, Republic of Korea
| | - Eun-Jung Ko
- Asan Institute for Life Sciences, Asan Medical Center, Seoul 05505, Republic of Korea
- Asan Preclinical Evaluation Center for Cancer Therapeutix, Asan Medical Center, Seoul 05505, Republic of Korea
| | - Jin Park
- Asan Institute for Life Sciences, Asan Medical Center, Seoul 05505, Republic of Korea
- Asan Preclinical Evaluation Center for Cancer Therapeutix, Asan Medical Center, Seoul 05505, Republic of Korea
| | - Eun-Jin Ju
- Asan Institute for Life Sciences, Asan Medical Center, Seoul 05505, Republic of Korea
- Asan Preclinical Evaluation Center for Cancer Therapeutix, Asan Medical Center, Seoul 05505, Republic of Korea
| | - Seol-Hwa Shin
- Asan Institute for Life Sciences, Asan Medical Center, Seoul 05505, Republic of Korea
- Asan Preclinical Evaluation Center for Cancer Therapeutix, Asan Medical Center, Seoul 05505, Republic of Korea
| | - Ga-Won Son
- Department of Medical Science, Asan Medical Institute of Convergence Science and Technology, University of Ulsan College of Medicine, Seoul 05505, Republic of Korea
- Asan Institute for Life Sciences, Asan Medical Center, Seoul 05505, Republic of Korea
- Asan Preclinical Evaluation Center for Cancer Therapeutix, Asan Medical Center, Seoul 05505, Republic of Korea
| | - Hye-Won Lee
- Department of Medical Science, Asan Medical Institute of Convergence Science and Technology, University of Ulsan College of Medicine, Seoul 05505, Republic of Korea
- Asan Institute for Life Sciences, Asan Medical Center, Seoul 05505, Republic of Korea
- Asan Preclinical Evaluation Center for Cancer Therapeutix, Asan Medical Center, Seoul 05505, Republic of Korea
| | - Yun-Yong Park
- Department of Life Science, Chung-Ang University, Seoul 06974, Republic of Korea
| | - Myoung-Hee Kang
- Asan Institute for Life Sciences, Asan Medical Center, Seoul 05505, Republic of Korea
| | - Yeon-Joo Kim
- Department of Radiation Oncology, Asan Medical Center, University of Ulsan College of Medicine, Seoul 05505, Republic of Korea
| | - Byeong-Moon Kim
- Department of Chemistry, Seoul National University, Seoul 08826, Republic of Korea
| | - Hee-Jin Lee
- Department of Pathology, Asan Medical Center, University of Ulsan College of Medicine, Seoul 05505, Republic of Korea
| | - Tae-Won Kim
- Asan Preclinical Evaluation Center for Cancer Therapeutix, Asan Medical Center, Seoul 05505, Republic of Korea
- Department of Oncology, Asan Medical Center, University of Ulsan College of Medicine, Seoul 05505, Republic of Korea
| | - Chong-Jai Kim
- Asan Preclinical Evaluation Center for Cancer Therapeutix, Asan Medical Center, Seoul 05505, Republic of Korea
- Department of Pathology, Asan Medical Center, University of Ulsan College of Medicine, Seoul 05505, Republic of Korea
| | - Si-Yeol Song
- Asan Preclinical Evaluation Center for Cancer Therapeutix, Asan Medical Center, Seoul 05505, Republic of Korea
- Department of Radiation Oncology, Asan Medical Center, University of Ulsan College of Medicine, Seoul 05505, Republic of Korea
| | - Seok-Soon Park
- Asan Institute for Life Sciences, Asan Medical Center, Seoul 05505, Republic of Korea
- Asan Preclinical Evaluation Center for Cancer Therapeutix, Asan Medical Center, Seoul 05505, Republic of Korea
| | - Seong-Yun Jeong
- Department of Medical Science, Asan Medical Institute of Convergence Science and Technology, University of Ulsan College of Medicine, Seoul 05505, Republic of Korea
- Asan Institute for Life Sciences, Asan Medical Center, Seoul 05505, Republic of Korea
- Asan Preclinical Evaluation Center for Cancer Therapeutix, Asan Medical Center, Seoul 05505, Republic of Korea
- Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, Asan Medical Center, University of Ulsan College of Medicine, Seoul 05505, Republic of Korea
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3
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Belt AJ, Grant S, Tombes RM, Rothschild SC. Myeloid Targeted Human MLL-ENL and MLL-AF9 Induces cdk9 and bcl2 Expression in Zebrafish Embryos. PLoS Genet 2024; 20:e1011308. [PMID: 38829886 PMCID: PMC11175583 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pgen.1011308] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/23/2023] [Revised: 06/13/2024] [Accepted: 05/19/2024] [Indexed: 06/05/2024] Open
Abstract
Acute myeloid leukemia (AML) accounts for greater than twenty thousand new cases of leukemia annually in the United States. The average five-year survival rate is approximately 30%, pointing to the need for developing novel model systems for drug discovery. In particular, patients with chromosomal rearrangements in the mixed lineage leukemia (MLL) gene have higher relapse rates with poor outcomes. In this study we investigated the expression of human MLL-ENL and MLL-AF9 in the myeloid lineage of zebrafish embryos. We observed an expansion of MLL positive cells and determined these cells colocalized with the myeloid markers spi1b, mpx, and mpeg. In addition, expression of MLL-ENL and MLL-AF9 induced the expression of endogenous bcl2 and cdk9, genes that are often dysregulated in MLL-r-AML. Co-treatment of lyz: MLL-ENL or lyz:MLL-AF9 expressing embryos with the BCL2 inhibitor, Venetoclax, and the CDK9 inhibitor, Flavopiridol, significantly reduced the number of MLL positive cells compared to embryos treated with vehicle or either drug alone. In addition, cotreatment with Venetoclax and Flavopiridol significantly reduced the expression of endogenous mcl1a compared to vehicle, consistent with AML. This new model of MLL-r-AML provides a novel tool to understand the molecular mechanisms underlying disease progression and a platform for drug discovery.
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MESH Headings
- Zebrafish/genetics
- Zebrafish/embryology
- Animals
- Cyclin-Dependent Kinase 9/genetics
- Cyclin-Dependent Kinase 9/metabolism
- Cyclin-Dependent Kinase 9/antagonists & inhibitors
- Myeloid-Lymphoid Leukemia Protein/genetics
- Myeloid-Lymphoid Leukemia Protein/metabolism
- Proto-Oncogene Proteins c-bcl-2/genetics
- Proto-Oncogene Proteins c-bcl-2/metabolism
- Humans
- Oncogene Proteins, Fusion/genetics
- Oncogene Proteins, Fusion/metabolism
- Leukemia, Myeloid, Acute/genetics
- Leukemia, Myeloid, Acute/drug therapy
- Leukemia, Myeloid, Acute/metabolism
- Bridged Bicyclo Compounds, Heterocyclic/pharmacology
- Sulfonamides/pharmacology
- Piperidines/pharmacology
- Embryo, Nonmammalian
- Flavonoids/pharmacology
- Myeloid Cells/metabolism
- Myeloid Cells/drug effects
- Histone-Lysine N-Methyltransferase/genetics
- Histone-Lysine N-Methyltransferase/metabolism
- Zebrafish Proteins/genetics
- Zebrafish Proteins/metabolism
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Affiliation(s)
- Alex J. Belt
- Life Sciences, Virginia Commonwealth University, Richmond, Virginia, United States of America
| | - Steven Grant
- Massey Cancer Center, Virginia Commonwealth University, Richmond, Virginia, United States of America
| | - Robert M. Tombes
- Massey Cancer Center, Virginia Commonwealth University, Richmond, Virginia, United States of America
- Biology, Virginia Commonwealth University, Richmond, Virginia, United States of America
| | - Sarah C. Rothschild
- Life Sciences, Virginia Commonwealth University, Richmond, Virginia, United States of America
- Massey Cancer Center, Virginia Commonwealth University, Richmond, Virginia, United States of America
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4
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Wang K, Jiang M, Liu H, Meng C, Li M, Lu H. Discovery of novel co-degradation CK1α and CDK7/9 PROTACs with p53 activation for treating acute myeloid leukemia. Bioorg Chem 2024; 147:107319. [PMID: 38593529 DOI: 10.1016/j.bioorg.2024.107319] [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: 01/14/2024] [Revised: 03/25/2024] [Accepted: 03/27/2024] [Indexed: 04/11/2024]
Abstract
Reactivating p53 activity to restore its anticancer function is an attractive cancer treatment strategy. In this study, we designed and synthesized a series of novel PROTACs to reactivate p53 via the co-degradation of CK1α and CDK7/9 proteins. Bioactivity studies showed that the selected PROTAC 13i exhibited potency antiproliferative activity in MV4-11 (IC50 = 0.096 ± 0.012 μM) and MOLM-13 (IC50 = 0.072 ± 0.014 μM) cells, and induced apoptosis of MV4-11 cells. Western-blot analysis showed that PROTAC 13i triple CK1α and CDK7/9 protein degradation resulted in the significantly increased expression of p53. At the same time, the transcriptional repression due to the degradation significantly reduced downstream gene expression of MYC, MDM2, BCL-2 and MCL-1, and reduced the inflammatory cytokine levels of TNF-α, IL-1β and IL-6 in PMBCs. These results indicate the beneficial impact of simultaneous CK1α and CDK7/9 degradation for acute myeloid leukemia therapy.
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MESH Headings
- Humans
- Tumor Suppressor Protein p53/metabolism
- Leukemia, Myeloid, Acute/drug therapy
- Leukemia, Myeloid, Acute/metabolism
- Leukemia, Myeloid, Acute/pathology
- Antineoplastic Agents/pharmacology
- Antineoplastic Agents/chemistry
- Antineoplastic Agents/chemical synthesis
- Casein Kinase Ialpha/metabolism
- Casein Kinase Ialpha/antagonists & inhibitors
- Cell Proliferation/drug effects
- Drug Screening Assays, Antitumor
- Cyclin-Dependent Kinase 9/antagonists & inhibitors
- Cyclin-Dependent Kinase 9/metabolism
- Structure-Activity Relationship
- Molecular Structure
- Cyclin-Dependent Kinases/antagonists & inhibitors
- Cyclin-Dependent Kinases/metabolism
- Dose-Response Relationship, Drug
- Apoptosis/drug effects
- Drug Discovery
- Cell Line, Tumor
- Proteolysis/drug effects
- Tumor Cells, Cultured
- Proteolysis Targeting Chimera
- Cyclin-Dependent Kinase-Activating Kinase
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Affiliation(s)
- Kai Wang
- College of Pharmacy, Jilin University, Changchun 130021, China
| | - Meixu Jiang
- College of Pharmacy, Jilin University, Changchun 130021, China
| | - Huimin Liu
- College of Pharmacy, Jilin University, Changchun 130021, China
| | - Chen Meng
- College of Pharmacy, Jilin University, Changchun 130021, China
| | - Mengyuan Li
- College of Pharmacy, Jilin University, Changchun 130021, China
| | - Haibin Lu
- College of Pharmacy, Jilin University, Changchun 130021, China.
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5
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Taghizadeh MS, Taherishirazi M, Niazi A, Afsharifar A, Moghadam A. Structure-guided design and cloning of peptide inhibitors targeting CDK9/cyclin T1 protein-protein interaction. Front Pharmacol 2024; 15:1327820. [PMID: 38808256 PMCID: PMC11130503 DOI: 10.3389/fphar.2024.1327820] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/25/2023] [Accepted: 01/18/2024] [Indexed: 05/30/2024] Open
Abstract
CDK9 (cyclin-dependent kinase 9) plays a significant role in numerous pathological conditions, such as HIV-1 infection and cancer. The interaction between CDK9 and cyclin T1 is crucial for maintaining the kinase's active state. Therefore, targeting this protein-protein interaction offers a promising strategy for inhibiting CDK9. In this study, we aimed to design and characterize a library of mutant peptides based on the binding region of cyclin T1 to CDK9. Using Osprey software, a total of 7,776 mutant peptides were generated. After conducting a comprehensive analysis, three peptides, namely, mp3 (RAADVEGQRKRRE), mp20 (RAATVEGQRKRRE), and mp29 (RAADVEGQDKRRE), were identified as promising inhibitors that possess the ability to bind to CDK9 with high affinity and exhibit low free binding energy. These peptides exhibited favorable safety profiles and displayed promising dynamic behaviors. Notably, our findings revealed that the mp3 and mp29 peptides interacted with a conserved sequence in CDK9 (residues 60-66). In addition, by designing the structure of potential peptides in the plasmid vector pET28a (+), we have been able to pave the way for facilitating the process of their recombinant production in an Escherichia coli expression system in future studies. Predictions indicated good solubility upon overexpression, further supporting their potential for downstream applications. While these results demonstrate the promise of the designed peptides as blockers of CDK9 with high affinity, additional experimental studies are required to validate their biological activity and assess their selectivity. Such investigations will provide valuable insights into their therapeutic potential and pave the way for the future development of peptide-based inhibitors targeting the CDK9-cyclin T1 complex.
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Affiliation(s)
| | | | - Ali Niazi
- Institute of Biotechnology, Shiraz University, Shiraz, Iran
| | - Alireza Afsharifar
- Plant Virology Research Center, School of Agriculture, Shiraz University, Shiraz, Iran
| | - Ali Moghadam
- Institute of Biotechnology, Shiraz University, Shiraz, Iran
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6
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Zhang Y, Shan L, Tang W, Ge Y, Li C, Zhang J. Recent Discovery and Development of Inhibitors that Target CDK9 and Their Therapeutic Indications. J Med Chem 2024; 67:5185-5215. [PMID: 38564299 DOI: 10.1021/acs.jmedchem.4c00312] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 04/04/2024]
Abstract
CDK9 is a cyclin-dependent kinase that plays pivotal roles in multiple cellular functions including gene transcription, cell cycle regulation, DNA damage repair, and cellular differentiation. Targeting CDK9 is considered an attractive strategy for antitumor therapy, especially for leukemia and lymphoma. Several potent small molecule inhibitors, exemplified by TG02 (4), have progressed to clinical trials. However, many of them face challenges such as low clinical efficacy and multiple adverse reactions and may necessitate the exploration of novel strategies to lead to success in the clinic. In this perspective, we present a comprehensive overview of the structural characteristics, biological functions, and preclinical status of CDK9 inhibitors. Our focus extends to various types of inhibitors, including pan-inhibitors, selective inhibitors, dual-target inhibitors, degraders, PPI inhibitors, and natural products. The discussion encompasses chemical structures, structure-activity relationships (SARs), biological activities, selectivity, and therapeutic potential, providing detailed insight into the diverse landscape of CDK9 inhibitors.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yuming Zhang
- Department of Neurology, Neuro-system and Multimorbidity Laboratory and State Key Laboratory of Biotherapy and Cancer Center and National Clinical Research Center for Geriatrics, West China Hospital, Sichuan University, Chengdu, 610041 Sichuan, China
- West China College of Medicine, West China Hospital, Sichuan University, Chengdu, 610041 Sichuan, China
| | - Lianhai Shan
- School of Life Science and Engineering, Southwest Jiaotong University, Chengdu, 610031 Sichuan, China
| | - Wentao Tang
- Department of Neurology, Neuro-system and Multimorbidity Laboratory and State Key Laboratory of Biotherapy and Cancer Center and National Clinical Research Center for Geriatrics, West China Hospital, Sichuan University, Chengdu, 610041 Sichuan, China
| | - Yating Ge
- Department of Neurology, Neuro-system and Multimorbidity Laboratory and State Key Laboratory of Biotherapy and Cancer Center and National Clinical Research Center for Geriatrics, West China Hospital, Sichuan University, Chengdu, 610041 Sichuan, China
| | - ChengXian Li
- Department of Neurology, Neuro-system and Multimorbidity Laboratory and State Key Laboratory of Biotherapy and Cancer Center and National Clinical Research Center for Geriatrics, West China Hospital, Sichuan University, Chengdu, 610041 Sichuan, China
| | - Jifa Zhang
- Department of Neurology, Neuro-system and Multimorbidity Laboratory and State Key Laboratory of Biotherapy and Cancer Center and National Clinical Research Center for Geriatrics, West China Hospital, Sichuan University, Chengdu, 610041 Sichuan, China
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7
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Liu Q, Zhao JZ, Zhou FS, Lan J, Lu Q, Ren HC. Development and validation of a sensitive UPLC-MS/MS analytical method for GFH009 in rat plasma and its application to toxicokinetics studies. Biomed Chromatogr 2024; 38:e5788. [PMID: 38081587 DOI: 10.1002/bmc.5788] [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: 09/07/2023] [Revised: 10/25/2023] [Accepted: 11/06/2023] [Indexed: 01/26/2024]
Abstract
GFH009 is a potent, highly selective, small molecule that targets and inhibits the activity of the CDK9/cyclin T1 regulatory complex of P-TEFb. This study aimed to develop and validate a highly selective and sensitive ultrahigh-performance liquid chromatography-tandem mass spectrometry (UHPLC-MS/MS) method for precise quantification of GFH009 in rat plasma. This method was subsequently employed for conducting toxicokinetic studies of GFH009 in rats. Plasma was prepared using a simple protein precipitation method by acetonitrile. Chromatographic separation of the analytes was achieved on a BEH C18 analytical column with a rapid 3.0 min run time and a flow rate of 0.5 ml/min. The calibration curves for plasma samples exhibited excellent linearity over a wide concentration range of 1.0-1,000 ng/ml for GFH009. Intra- and inter-day accuracies were within 92.7-105.7%, and precisions were no more than 6.7%. Furthermore, the analyte demonstrated stability under four different storage conditions, with variations of <15.0%. This study pioneers a methodological innovation by introducing a highly reliable, specific and sensitive analytical method for GFH009 in rat plasma. The successful application of this method in toxicokinetic studies further underscores its significance, offering valuable insights for the methodology of clinical pharmacokinetic research.
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Affiliation(s)
- Qiang Liu
- GenFleet Therapeutics (Shanghai) Inc., Shanghai, P. R. China
| | - Jin-Zhu Zhao
- GenFleet Therapeutics (Shanghai) Inc., Shanghai, P. R. China
| | - Fu-Sheng Zhou
- GenFleet Therapeutics (Shanghai) Inc., Shanghai, P. R. China
| | - Jiong Lan
- GenFleet Therapeutics (Shanghai) Inc., Shanghai, P. R. China
| | - Qiang Lu
- GenFleet Therapeutics (Shanghai) Inc., Shanghai, P. R. China
| | - Hong-Can Ren
- GenFleet Therapeutics (Shanghai) Inc., Shanghai, P. R. China
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8
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Zhou Z, Jiang Y, Zhong X, Yang J, Yang G. Characteristics and mechanisms of latency-reversing agents in the activation of the human immunodeficiency virus 1 reservoir. Arch Virol 2023; 168:301. [PMID: 38019293 DOI: 10.1007/s00705-023-05931-2] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/02/2023] [Accepted: 10/23/2023] [Indexed: 11/30/2023]
Abstract
The "Shock and Kill" method is being considered as a potential treatment for eradicating HIV-1 and achieving a functional cure for acquired immunodeficiency syndrome (AIDS). This approach involves using latency-reversing agents (LRAs) to activate human immunodeficiency virus (HIV-1) transcription in latent cells, followed by treatment with antiviral drugs to kill these cells. Although LRAs have shown promise in HIV-1 patient research, their widespread clinical use is hindered by side effects and limitations. In this review, we categorize and explain the mechanisms of these agonists in activating HIV-1 in vivo and discuss their advantages and disadvantages. In the future, combining different HIV-1 LRAs may overcome their respective shortcomings and facilitate a functional cure for HIV-1.
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Affiliation(s)
- Zhujiao Zhou
- Department of Clinical Medicine, School of Medicine, Hangzhou City University, Hangzhou, China
- College of Pharmacy, Zhejiang University of Technology, Hangzhou, 310013, China
| | - Yashuang Jiang
- Department of Clinical Medicine, School of Medicine, Hangzhou City University, Hangzhou, China
| | - Xinyu Zhong
- Department of Clinical Medicine, School of Medicine, Hangzhou City University, Hangzhou, China
- College of Pharmacy, Zhejiang University of Technology, Hangzhou, 310013, China
| | - Jingyi Yang
- Department of Clinical Medicine, School of Medicine, Hangzhou City University, Hangzhou, China
| | - Geng Yang
- Department of Clinical Medicine, School of Medicine, Hangzhou City University, Hangzhou, China.
- Key Laboratory of Novel Targets and Drug Study for Neural Repair of Zhejiang Province, School of Medicine, Hangzhou City University, Hangzhou, 310013, China.
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9
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Wu T, Yu B, Gong W, Zhang J, Yu S, Tian Y, Zhao T, Li Z, Wang J, Bian J. Design and optimization of selective and potent CDK9 inhibitors with flavonoid scaffold for the treatment of acute myeloid leukemia. Eur J Med Chem 2023; 259:115711. [PMID: 37572539 DOI: 10.1016/j.ejmech.2023.115711] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/12/2023] [Revised: 08/03/2023] [Accepted: 08/03/2023] [Indexed: 08/14/2023]
Abstract
Acute myeloid leukemia (AML) is a prevalent hematological tumor associated with a high morbidity and mortality rate. CDK9, functioning as a pivotal transcriptional regulator, facilitates transcriptional elongation through phosphorylation of RNA polymerase II, which further governs the protein levels of Mcl-1 and c-Myc. Therefore, CDK9 has been considered as a promising therapeutic target for AML treatment. Here, we present the design, synthesis, and evaluation of CDK9 inhibitors bearing a flavonoid scaffold. Among them, compound 21a emerged as a highly selective CDK9 inhibitor (IC50 = 6.7 nM), exhibiting over 80-fold selectivity towards most other CDK family members and high kinase selectivity. In Mv4-11 cells, 21a effectively hindered cell proliferation (IC50 = 60 nM) and induced apoptosis by down-regulating Mcl-1 and c-Myc. Notably, 21a demonstrated significant inhibition of tumor growth in the Mv4-11 xenograft tumor model. These findings indicate that compound 21a holds promise as a potential candidate for treating AML.
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Affiliation(s)
- Tizhi Wu
- Jiangsu Key Laboratory of Drug Design and Optimization, Department of Medicinal Chemistry, School of Pharmacy, China Pharmaceutical University, Nanjing, 210009, PR China
| | - Bin Yu
- Jiangsu Key Laboratory of Drug Design and Optimization, Department of Medicinal Chemistry, School of Pharmacy, China Pharmaceutical University, Nanjing, 210009, PR China
| | - Weihong Gong
- Jiangsu Key Laboratory of Drug Design and Optimization, Department of Medicinal Chemistry, School of Pharmacy, China Pharmaceutical University, Nanjing, 210009, PR China
| | - Jing Zhang
- Jiangsu Key Laboratory of Drug Design and Optimization, Department of Medicinal Chemistry, School of Pharmacy, China Pharmaceutical University, Nanjing, 210009, PR China
| | - Sixian Yu
- Jiangsu Key Laboratory of Drug Design and Optimization, Department of Medicinal Chemistry, School of Pharmacy, China Pharmaceutical University, Nanjing, 210009, PR China
| | - Yucheng Tian
- Jiangsu Key Laboratory of Drug Design and Optimization, Department of Medicinal Chemistry, School of Pharmacy, China Pharmaceutical University, Nanjing, 210009, PR China
| | - Tengteng Zhao
- Jiangsu Key Laboratory of Drug Design and Optimization, Department of Medicinal Chemistry, School of Pharmacy, China Pharmaceutical University, Nanjing, 210009, PR China
| | - Zhiyu Li
- Jiangsu Key Laboratory of Drug Design and Optimization, Department of Medicinal Chemistry, School of Pharmacy, China Pharmaceutical University, Nanjing, 210009, PR China.
| | - Jubo Wang
- Jiangsu Key Laboratory of Drug Design and Optimization, Department of Medicinal Chemistry, School of Pharmacy, China Pharmaceutical University, Nanjing, 210009, PR China.
| | - Jinlei Bian
- Jiangsu Key Laboratory of Drug Design and Optimization, Department of Medicinal Chemistry, School of Pharmacy, China Pharmaceutical University, Nanjing, 210009, PR China.
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10
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Alsfouk AA, Alshibl HM, Altwaijry NA, Alanazi A, AlKamaly O, Sultan A, Alsfouk BA. New Imadazopyrazines with CDK9 Inhibitory Activity as Anticancer and Antiviral: Synthesis, In Silico, and In Vitro Evaluation Approaches. Pharmaceuticals (Basel) 2023; 16:1018. [PMID: 37513929 PMCID: PMC10383573 DOI: 10.3390/ph16071018] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/13/2023] [Revised: 07/11/2023] [Accepted: 07/17/2023] [Indexed: 07/30/2023] Open
Abstract
This study describes the synthesis and biological activity of new imadazopyrazines as first-in-class CDK9 inhibitors. The inhibition of CDK9 is a well-established therapeutic target in cancer therapy. The new compounds were assessed using an in vitro kinase assay against CDK9. In this assay, compound 1d exhibited the highest CDK9 inhibition with an IC50 of 0.18 µM. The cytotoxicity effect of the novel compounds was evaluated in three cancer cell lines: HCT116, K652, and MCF7. The results of this assay showed a correlation between the antiproliferative effect of the inhibitors and their CDK9 inhibitory effect in the biochemical assay. This suggests CDK9 inhibition as a mechanistic pathway for their anticancer effect. Several compounds demonstrated potent cytotoxic effects with single-digit micromolar IC50 values yielded through an MTT assay. The compounds with the most promising data were further assessed for their antiviral activity against human Coronavirus 229E. The results showed that compound 4a showed the highest antiviral potency with an IC50 of 63.28 µM and a selectivity index of 4.8. In silico target prediction data showed that 4a displayed a good affinity to proteases. The result of the docking studies of 4a with COVID-19 main protease revealed a high binding affinity, which confirmed the results obtained from in vitro study. The physiochemical and in silico pharmacokinetic parameters indicated reasonable drug-likeness properties of the new compounds, including solubility, lipophilicity, absorption, oral bioavailability, and metabolic stability. Further lead optimization of this novel scaffold could lead to a revolution of a new class of preclinical CDK9 agents.
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Affiliation(s)
- Aisha A Alsfouk
- Department of Pharmaceutical Sciences, College of Pharmacy, Princess Nourah bint Abdulrahman University, P.O. Box 84428, Riyadh 11671, Saudi Arabia
| | - Hanan M Alshibl
- Department of Pharmaceutical Chemistry, College of Pharmacy, King Saud University, P.O. Box 2457, Riyadh 11451, Saudi Arabia
| | - Najla A Altwaijry
- Department of Pharmaceutical Sciences, College of Pharmacy, Princess Nourah bint Abdulrahman University, P.O. Box 84428, Riyadh 11671, Saudi Arabia
| | - Ashwag Alanazi
- Department of Pharmaceutical Sciences, College of Pharmacy, Princess Nourah bint Abdulrahman University, P.O. Box 84428, Riyadh 11671, Saudi Arabia
| | - Omkulthom AlKamaly
- Department of Pharmaceutical Sciences, College of Pharmacy, Princess Nourah bint Abdulrahman University, P.O. Box 84428, Riyadh 11671, Saudi Arabia
| | - Ahlam Sultan
- Department of Pharmaceutical Sciences, College of Pharmacy, Princess Nourah bint Abdulrahman University, P.O. Box 84428, Riyadh 11671, Saudi Arabia
| | - Bshra A Alsfouk
- Department of Pharmaceutical Sciences, College of Pharmacy, Princess Nourah bint Abdulrahman University, P.O. Box 84428, Riyadh 11671, Saudi Arabia
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11
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Liu R. Brd4-dependent CDK9 expression induction upon sustained pharmacological inhibition of P-TEFb kinase activity. Biochem Biophys Res Commun 2023; 671:75-79. [PMID: 37295357 DOI: 10.1016/j.bbrc.2023.05.114] [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: 05/18/2023] [Revised: 05/25/2023] [Accepted: 05/26/2023] [Indexed: 06/12/2023]
Abstract
CDK9 is the kinase subunit of P-TEFb (positive transcription elongation factor b), which is crucial for effective transcriptional elongation. The activity of P-TEFb is well maintained, mainly through dynamic association with several larger protein complexes. Here, we show that CDK9 expression is induced upon inhibition of P-TEFb activity, a process dependent on Brd4 as later revealed. Brd4 inhibition synergizes with CDK9 inhibitor to suppress P-TEFb activity and tumor cell growth. Our study suggests that combined inhibition of Brd4 and CDK9 can be evaluated as a potential therapeutic strategy.
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Affiliation(s)
- Rongdiao Liu
- Key Laboratory of Diagnosis and Treatment of Severe Hepato-Pancreatic Diseases of Zhejiang Province, The First Affiliated Hospital of Wenzhou Medical University, Wenzhou, 325000, China.
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12
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Tokarski RJ, Sharpe CM, Huntsman AC, Mize BK, Ayinde OR, Stahl EH, Lerma JR, Reed A, Carmichael B, Muthusamy N, Byrd JC, Fuchs JR. Bifunctional degraders of cyclin dependent kinase 9 (CDK9): Probing the relationship between linker length, properties, and selective protein degradation. Eur J Med Chem 2023; 254:115342. [PMID: 37071962 DOI: 10.1016/j.ejmech.2023.115342] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/20/2023] [Revised: 04/02/2023] [Accepted: 04/03/2023] [Indexed: 04/08/2023]
Abstract
Cyclin-dependent kinase 9 (CDK9) is a promising therapeutic target in multiple cancer types, including acute myeloid leukemia (AML). Protein degraders, also known as proteolysis targeting chimeras (PROTACs), have emerged as tools for the selective degradation of cancer targets, including CDK9, complementing the activity of traditional small-molecule inhibitors. These compounds typically incorporate previously reported inhibitors and a known E3 ligase ligand to induce ubiquitination and subsequent degradation of the target protein. Although many protein degraders have been reported in the literature, the properties of the linker necessary for efficient degradation still require special attention. In this study, a series of protein degraders was developed, employing the clinically tested CDK inhibitor AT7519. The purpose of this study was to examine the effect that linker composition, specifically chain length, would have on potency. In addition to establishing a baseline of activity for various linker compositions, two distinct homologous series, a fully alkyl series and an amide-containing series, were prepared, demonstrating the dependence of degrader potency in these series on linker length and the correlation with predicted physicochemical properties.
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Affiliation(s)
- Robert J Tokarski
- Division of Medicinal Chemistry & Pharmacognosy, College of Pharmacy, The Ohio State University, Columbus, OH, 43210, United States
| | - Chia M Sharpe
- Department of Internal Medicine, University of Cincinnati, Cincinnati, OH, 45267, United States
| | - Andrew C Huntsman
- Division of Medicinal Chemistry & Pharmacognosy, College of Pharmacy, The Ohio State University, Columbus, OH, 43210, United States
| | - Brittney K Mize
- Division of Medicinal Chemistry & Pharmacognosy, College of Pharmacy, The Ohio State University, Columbus, OH, 43210, United States
| | - Oluwatosin R Ayinde
- Division of Medicinal Chemistry & Pharmacognosy, College of Pharmacy, The Ohio State University, Columbus, OH, 43210, United States
| | - Emily H Stahl
- The Ohio State University Comprehensive Cancer Center, College of Medicine, The Ohio State University, Columbus, OH, 43210, United States
| | - James R Lerma
- Department of Internal Medicine, University of Cincinnati, Cincinnati, OH, 45267, United States
| | - Andrew Reed
- CCIC Mass Spectrometry and Proteomics, The Ohio State University, Columbus, OH, 43210, United States
| | - Bridget Carmichael
- The Ohio State University Comprehensive Cancer Center, College of Medicine, The Ohio State University, Columbus, OH, 43210, United States
| | - Natarajan Muthusamy
- The Ohio State University Comprehensive Cancer Center, College of Medicine, The Ohio State University, Columbus, OH, 43210, United States
| | - John C Byrd
- Department of Internal Medicine, University of Cincinnati, Cincinnati, OH, 45267, United States; University of Cincinnati Cancer Center, College of Medicine, University of Cincinnati, Cincinnati, OH, 45267, United States
| | - James R Fuchs
- Division of Medicinal Chemistry & Pharmacognosy, College of Pharmacy, The Ohio State University, Columbus, OH, 43210, United States.
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13
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Wu X, Xie Y, Zhao K, Lu J. Targeting the super elongation complex for oncogenic transcription driven tumor malignancies: Progress in structure, mechanisms and small molecular inhibitor discovery. Adv Cancer Res 2023; 158:387-421. [PMID: 36990537 DOI: 10.1016/bs.acr.2022.12.007] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/11/2023]
Abstract
Oncogenic transcription activation is associated with tumor development and resistance derived from chemotherapy or target therapy. The super elongation complex (SEC) is an important complex regulating gene transcription and expression in metazoans closely related to physiological activities. In normal transcriptional regulation, SEC can trigger promoter escape, limit proteolytic degradation of transcription elongation factors and increase the synthesis of RNA polymerase II (POL II), and regulate many normal human genes to stimulate RNA elongation. Dysregulation of SEC accompanied by multiple transcription factors in cancer promotes rapid transcription of oncogenes and induce cancer development. In this review, we summarized recent progress in understanding the mechanisms of SEC in regulating normal transcription, and importantly its roles in cancer development. We also highlighted the discovery of SEC complex target related inhibitors and their potential applications in cancer treatment.
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Affiliation(s)
- Xinyu Wu
- School of Pharmacy, Key Laboratory of Molecular Pharmacology and Drug Evaluation (Yantai University), Ministry of Education, Collaborative Innovation Center of Advanced Drug Delivery System and Biotech Drugs in Universities of Shandong, Yantai University, Yantai, China; Drug Discovery and Design Center, State Key Laboratory of Drug Research, Shanghai Institute of Materia Medica, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Shanghai, China
| | - Yanqiu Xie
- School of Pharmacy, Key Laboratory of Molecular Pharmacology and Drug Evaluation (Yantai University), Ministry of Education, Collaborative Innovation Center of Advanced Drug Delivery System and Biotech Drugs in Universities of Shandong, Yantai University, Yantai, China; Drug Discovery and Design Center, State Key Laboratory of Drug Research, Shanghai Institute of Materia Medica, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Shanghai, China
| | - Kehao Zhao
- School of Pharmacy, Key Laboratory of Molecular Pharmacology and Drug Evaluation (Yantai University), Ministry of Education, Collaborative Innovation Center of Advanced Drug Delivery System and Biotech Drugs in Universities of Shandong, Yantai University, Yantai, China.
| | - Jing Lu
- School of Pharmacy, Key Laboratory of Molecular Pharmacology and Drug Evaluation (Yantai University), Ministry of Education, Collaborative Innovation Center of Advanced Drug Delivery System and Biotech Drugs in Universities of Shandong, Yantai University, Yantai, China.
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14
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Aksoy O, Lind J, Sunder-Plaßmann V, Vallet S, Podar K. Bone marrow microenvironment- induced regulation of Bcl-2 family members in multiple myeloma (MM): Therapeutic implications. Cytokine 2023; 161:156062. [PMID: 36332463 DOI: 10.1016/j.cyto.2022.156062] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/01/2022] [Revised: 09/19/2022] [Accepted: 09/30/2022] [Indexed: 11/23/2022]
Abstract
In Multiple Myeloma (MM) the finely tuned homeostasis of the bone marrow (BM) microenvironment is disrupted. Evasion of programmed cell death (apoptosis) represents a hallmark of cancer. Besides genetic aberrations, the supportive and protective MM BM milieu, which is constituted by cytokines and growth factors, intercellular and cell: extracellular matrix (ECM) interactions and exosomes, in particular, plays a key role in the abundance of pro-survival members of the Bcl-2 family (i.e., Mcl-1, Bcl-2, and Bcl-xL) in tumor cells. Moreover, microenvironmental cues have also an impact on stability- regulating post-translational modifications of anti-apoptotic proteins including de/phosphorylation, polyubiquitination; on their intracellular binding affinities, and localization. Advances of our molecular knowledge on the escape of cancer cells from apoptosis have informed the development of a new class of small molecules that mimic the action of BH3-only proteins. Indeed, approaches to directly target anti-apoptotic Bcl-2 family members are among today's most promising therapeutic strategies and BH3-mimetics (i.e., venetoclax) are currently revolutionizing not only the treatment of CLL and AML, but also hold great therapeutic promise in MM. Furthermore, approaches that activate apoptotic pathways indirectly via modification of the tumor microenvironment have already entered clinical practice. The present review article will summarize our up-to-date knowledge on molecular mechanisms by which the MM BM microenvironment, cytokines, and growth factors in particular, mediates tumor cell evasion from apoptosis. Moreover, it will discuss some of the most promising science- derived therapeutic strategies to overcome Bcl-2- mediated tumor cell survival in order to further improve MM patient outcome.
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Affiliation(s)
- Osman Aksoy
- Molecular Oncology and Hematology Unit, Karl Landsteiner University of Health Sciences, Dr. Karl-Dorrek-Straße 30, 3500 Krems an der Donau, Austria
| | - Judith Lind
- Molecular Oncology and Hematology Unit, Karl Landsteiner University of Health Sciences, Dr. Karl-Dorrek-Straße 30, 3500 Krems an der Donau, Austria
| | - Vincent Sunder-Plaßmann
- Molecular Oncology and Hematology Unit, Karl Landsteiner University of Health Sciences, Dr. Karl-Dorrek-Straße 30, 3500 Krems an der Donau, Austria
| | - Sonia Vallet
- Molecular Oncology and Hematology Unit, Karl Landsteiner University of Health Sciences, Dr. Karl-Dorrek-Straße 30, 3500 Krems an der Donau, Austria; Department of Internal Medicine 2, University Hospital Krems, Mitterweg 10, 3500 Krems an der Donau, Austria
| | - Klaus Podar
- Molecular Oncology and Hematology Unit, Karl Landsteiner University of Health Sciences, Dr. Karl-Dorrek-Straße 30, 3500 Krems an der Donau, Austria; Department of Internal Medicine 2, University Hospital Krems, Mitterweg 10, 3500 Krems an der Donau, Austria.
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15
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Mounika P, Gurupadayya B, Kumar HY, Namitha B. An Overview of CDK Enzyme Inhibitors in Cancer Therapy. Curr Cancer Drug Targets 2023; 23:603-619. [PMID: 36959160 DOI: 10.2174/1568009623666230320144713] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/10/2022] [Revised: 01/12/2023] [Accepted: 01/25/2023] [Indexed: 03/25/2023]
Abstract
The ability to address the cell cycle in cancer therapy brings up new medication development possibilities. Cyclin-dependent kinases are a group of proteins that control the progression of the cell cycle. The CDK/cyclin complexes are activated when specific CDK sites are phosphorylated. Because of their non-selectivity and severe toxicity, most first-generation CDK inhibitors (also known as pan-CDK inhibitors) have not been authorized for clinical usage. Despite this, significant progress has been made in allowing pan-CDK inhibitors to be employed in clinical settings. Pan-CDK inhibitors' toxicity and side effects have been lowered in recent years because of the introduction of combination therapy techniques. As a result of this, pan-CDK inhibitors have regained a lot of clinical potential as a combination therapy approach. The CDK family members have been introduced in this overview, and their important roles in cell cycle control have been discussed. Then, we have described the current state of CDK inhibitor research, with a focus on inhibitors other than CDK4/6. We have mentioned first-generation pan-CDKIs, flavopiridol and roscovitine, as well as second-generation CDKIs, dinaciclib, P276-00, AT7519, TG02, roniciclib, and RGB-286638, based on their research phases, clinical trials, and cancer targeting. CDKIs are CDK4/6, CDK7, CDK9, and CDK12 inhibitors. Finally, we have looked into the efficacy of CDK inhibitors and PD1/PDL1 antibodies when used together, which could lead to the development of a viable cancer treatment strategy.
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Affiliation(s)
- Peddaguravagari Mounika
- Department of Pharmaceutical Chemistry, JSS College of Pharmacy, JSS Academy of Higher Education & Research, Mysuru, 570015, India
| | - Bannimath Gurupadayya
- Department of Pharmaceutical Chemistry, JSS College of Pharmacy, JSS Academy of Higher Education & Research, Mysuru, 570015, India
| | - Honnavalli Yogish Kumar
- Department of Pharmaceutical Chemistry, JSS College of Pharmacy, JSS Academy of Higher Education & Research, Mysuru, 570015, India
| | - Bannimath Namitha
- Department of Pharmacology, JSS College of Pharmacy, JSS Academy of Higher Education & Research, Mysuru, 570015, India
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16
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Nature-Derived Compounds as Potential Bioactive Leads against CDK9-Induced Cancer: Computational and Network Pharmacology Approaches. Processes (Basel) 2022. [DOI: 10.3390/pr10122512] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/29/2022] Open
Abstract
Given the importance of cyclin-dependent kinases (CDKs) in the maintenance of cell development, gene transcription, and other essential biological operations, CDK blockers have been generated to manage a variety of disorders resulting from CDK irregularities. Furthermore, CDK9 has a crucial role in transcription by regulating short-lived anti-apoptotic genes necessary for cancer cell persistence. Addressing CDK9 with blockers has consequently emerged as a promising treatment for cancer. This study scrutinizes the effectiveness of nature-derived compounds (geniposidic acid, quercetin, geniposide, curcumin, and withanolide C) against CDK9 through computational approaches. A molecular docking study was performed after preparing the protein and the ligands. The selected blockers of the CDK9 exerted reliable binding affinities (−8.114 kcal/mol to −13.908 kcal/mol) against the selected protein, resulting in promising candidates compared to the co-crystallized ligand (LCI). The binding affinity of geniposidic acid (−13.908 kcal/mol) to CDK9 is higher than quercetin (−10.775 kcal/mol), geniposide (−9.969 kcal/mol), curcumin (−9.898 kcal/mol), withanolide C (−8.114 kcal/mol), and the co-crystallized ligand LCI (−11.425 kcal/mol). Therefore, geniposidic acid is a promising inhibitor of CDK9. Moreover, the molecular dynamics studies assessed the structure–function relationships and protein–ligand interactions. The network pharmacology study for the selected ligands demonstrated the auspicious compound–target–pathway signaling pathways vital in developing tumor, tumor cell growth, differentiation, and promoting tumor cell progression. Moreover, this study concluded by analyzing the computational approaches the natural-derived compounds that have potential interacting activities against CDK9 and, therefore, can be considered promising candidates for CKD9-induced cancer. To substantiate this study’s outcomes, in vivo research is recommended.
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17
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He XL, Hu YH, Chen JM, Zhang DQ, Yang HL, Zhang LZ, Mu YP, Zhang H, Chen GF, Liu W, Liu P. SNS-032 attenuates liver fibrosis by anti-active hepatic stellate cells via inhibition of cyclin dependent kinase 9. Front Pharmacol 2022; 13:1016552. [PMID: 36313366 PMCID: PMC9597511 DOI: 10.3389/fphar.2022.1016552] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/11/2022] [Accepted: 09/29/2022] [Indexed: 11/13/2022] Open
Abstract
Liver fibrosis is a common pathological process of all chronic liver diseases. Hepatic stellate cells (HSCs) play a central role in the development of liver fibrosis. Cyclin-dependent kinase 9 (CDK9) is a cell cycle kinase that regulates mRNA transcription and elongation. A CDK9 inhibitor SNS-032 has been reported to have good effects in anti-tumor. However, the role of SNS-032 in the development of liver fibrosis is unclear. In this study, SNS-032 was found to alleviate hepatic fibrosis by inhibiting the activation and inducing the apoptosis of active HSCs in carbon tetrachloride-induced model mice. In vitro, SNS-032 inhibited the activation and proliferation of active HSCs and induced the apoptosis of active HSCs by downregulating the expression of CDK9 and its downstream signal transductors, such phosphorylated RNA polymerase II and Bcl-2. CDK9 short hairpin RNA was transfected into active HSCs to further elucidate the mechanism of the above effects. Similar results were observed in active HSCs after CDK9 knockdown. In active HSCs with CDK9 knockdown, the expression levels of CDK9, phosphorylated RNA polymerase II, XIAP, Bcl-2, Mcl-1, and ɑ-SMA significantly decreased, whereas those of cleaved-PARP1 and Bax decreased prominently. These results indicated that SNS-032 is a potential drug and CDK9 might be a new prospective target for the treatment of liver fibrosis.
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Affiliation(s)
- Xiao-Li He
- Key Laboratory of Liver and Kidney Diseases (Ministry of Education), Institute of Liver Diseases, Shanghai Key Laboratory of Traditional Chinese Clinical Medicine, Shuguang Hospital Affiliated to Shanghai University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Shanghai, China
- Department of Endocrinology, Yueyang Hospital of Integrated Traditional Chinese and Western Medicine, Shanghai University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Shanghai, China
| | - Yong-Hong Hu
- Key Laboratory of Liver and Kidney Diseases (Ministry of Education), Institute of Liver Diseases, Shanghai Key Laboratory of Traditional Chinese Clinical Medicine, Shuguang Hospital Affiliated to Shanghai University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Shanghai, China
| | - Jia-Mei Chen
- Key Laboratory of Liver and Kidney Diseases (Ministry of Education), Institute of Liver Diseases, Shanghai Key Laboratory of Traditional Chinese Clinical Medicine, Shuguang Hospital Affiliated to Shanghai University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Shanghai, China
| | - Ding-Qi Zhang
- Key Laboratory of Liver and Kidney Diseases (Ministry of Education), Institute of Liver Diseases, Shanghai Key Laboratory of Traditional Chinese Clinical Medicine, Shuguang Hospital Affiliated to Shanghai University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Shanghai, China
| | - Hai-Lin Yang
- Key Laboratory of Liver and Kidney Diseases (Ministry of Education), Institute of Liver Diseases, Shanghai Key Laboratory of Traditional Chinese Clinical Medicine, Shuguang Hospital Affiliated to Shanghai University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Shanghai, China
| | - Lin-Zhang Zhang
- Key Laboratory of Liver and Kidney Diseases (Ministry of Education), Institute of Liver Diseases, Shanghai Key Laboratory of Traditional Chinese Clinical Medicine, Shuguang Hospital Affiliated to Shanghai University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Shanghai, China
- Shanghai Frontiers Science Center of TCM Chemical Biology, Institute of Interdisciplinary Integrative Medicine Research, Shanghai University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Shanghai, China
| | - Yong-Ping Mu
- Key Laboratory of Liver and Kidney Diseases (Ministry of Education), Institute of Liver Diseases, Shanghai Key Laboratory of Traditional Chinese Clinical Medicine, Shuguang Hospital Affiliated to Shanghai University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Shanghai, China
| | - Hua Zhang
- Key Laboratory of Liver and Kidney Diseases (Ministry of Education), Institute of Liver Diseases, Shanghai Key Laboratory of Traditional Chinese Clinical Medicine, Shuguang Hospital Affiliated to Shanghai University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Shanghai, China
| | - Gao-Feng Chen
- Key Laboratory of Liver and Kidney Diseases (Ministry of Education), Institute of Liver Diseases, Shanghai Key Laboratory of Traditional Chinese Clinical Medicine, Shuguang Hospital Affiliated to Shanghai University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Shanghai, China
| | - Wei Liu
- Key Laboratory of Liver and Kidney Diseases (Ministry of Education), Institute of Liver Diseases, Shanghai Key Laboratory of Traditional Chinese Clinical Medicine, Shuguang Hospital Affiliated to Shanghai University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Shanghai, China
- *Correspondence: Wei Liu, ; Ping Liu,
| | - Ping Liu
- Key Laboratory of Liver and Kidney Diseases (Ministry of Education), Institute of Liver Diseases, Shanghai Key Laboratory of Traditional Chinese Clinical Medicine, Shuguang Hospital Affiliated to Shanghai University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Shanghai, China
- Shanghai Frontiers Science Center of TCM Chemical Biology, Institute of Interdisciplinary Integrative Medicine Research, Shanghai University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Shanghai, China
- *Correspondence: Wei Liu, ; Ping Liu,
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18
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Chilà R, Chiappa M, Guffanti F, Panini N, Conconi D, Rinaldi A, Cascione L, Bertoni F, Fratelli M, Damia G. Stable CDK12 Knock-Out Ovarian Cancer Cells Do Not Show Increased Sensitivity to Cisplatin and PARP Inhibitor Treatment. Front Oncol 2022; 12:903536. [PMID: 35912188 PMCID: PMC9328802 DOI: 10.3389/fonc.2022.903536] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/25/2022] [Accepted: 05/24/2022] [Indexed: 11/23/2022] Open
Abstract
Cyclin-dependent kinase 12 (CDK12) is a serine/threonine kinase involved in the regulation of RNA polymerase II and in the transcription of a subset of genes involved in the DNA damage response. CDK12 is one of the most mutated genes in ovarian carcinoma. These mutations result in loss-of-function and can predict the responses to PARP1/2 inhibitor and platinum. To investigate the role of CDK12 in ovarian cancer, CRISPR/Cas9 technology was used to generate a stable CDK12 knockout (KO) clone in A2780 ovarian carcinoma cells. This is the first report on a CDK12 null cell line. The clone had slower cell growth and was less clonogenic than parental cells. These data were confirmed in vivo, where CDK12 KO transplanted cells had a much longer time lag and slightly slower growth rate than CDK12-expressing cells. The slower growth was associated with a higher basal level of apoptosis, but there were no differences in the basal level of autophagy and senescence. While cell cycle distribution was similar in parental and knockout cells, there was a doubling in DNA content, with an almost double modal number of chromosomes in the CDK12 KO clone which, however did not display any increase in γH2AX, a marker of DNA damage. We found partial down-regulation of the expression of DNA repair genes at the mRNA level and, among the down-regulated genes, an enrichment in the G2/M checkpoint genes. Although the biological features of CDK12 KO cells are compatible with the function of CDK12, contrary to some reports, we could not find any difference in the sensitivity to cisplatin and olaparib between wild-type and CDK12 KO cells.
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Affiliation(s)
- Rosaria Chilà
- Laboratory of Experimental Oncology, Department of Oncology, Istituto di Ricerche Farmacologiche Mario Negri Istituito di Ricovero e Cura a Carattere Scientifico (IRCCS), Milan, Italy
| | - Michela Chiappa
- Laboratory of Experimental Oncology, Department of Oncology, Istituto di Ricerche Farmacologiche Mario Negri Istituito di Ricovero e Cura a Carattere Scientifico (IRCCS), Milan, Italy
| | - Federica Guffanti
- Laboratory of Experimental Oncology, Department of Oncology, Istituto di Ricerche Farmacologiche Mario Negri Istituito di Ricovero e Cura a Carattere Scientifico (IRCCS), Milan, Italy
| | - Nicolò Panini
- Laboratory of Cancer Pharmacology, Department of Oncology, Istituto di Ricerche Farmacologiche Mario Negri IRCCS, Milan, Italy
| | - Donatella Conconi
- School of Medicine and Surgery, University of Milano-Bicocca, Monza, Italy
| | - Andrea Rinaldi
- Institute of Oncology Research, Faculty of Biomedical Sciences, USI, Bellinzona, Switzerland
| | - Luciano Cascione
- Institute of Oncology Research, Faculty of Biomedical Sciences, USI, Bellinzona, Switzerland
- SIB Swiss Institute of Bioinformatics, Lausanne, Switzerland
| | - Francesco Bertoni
- Institute of Oncology Research, Faculty of Biomedical Sciences, USI, Bellinzona, Switzerland
- Oncology Institute of Southern Switzerland (IOSI), Bellinzona, Switzerland
| | - Maddalena Fratelli
- Department of Biochemistry, Istituto di Ricerche Farmacologiche Mario Negri IRCCS, Milan, Italy
| | - Giovanna Damia
- Laboratory of Experimental Oncology, Department of Oncology, Istituto di Ricerche Farmacologiche Mario Negri Istituito di Ricovero e Cura a Carattere Scientifico (IRCCS), Milan, Italy
- *Correspondence: Giovanna Damia,
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19
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Alsfouk AA, Alshibl HM, Alsfouk BA, Altwaijry NA, Al-Abdullah ES. Synthesis and Biological Evaluation of Imadazo[1,2-a]pyrazines as Anticancer and Antiviral Agents through Inhibition of CDK9 and Human Coronavirus. Pharmaceuticals (Basel) 2022; 15:ph15070859. [PMID: 35890157 PMCID: PMC9319549 DOI: 10.3390/ph15070859] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/08/2022] [Revised: 07/10/2022] [Accepted: 07/11/2022] [Indexed: 02/04/2023] Open
Abstract
In this work, novel imadazo[1,2-a]pyrazine derivatives were synthesized and evaluated as CDK9 inhibitors. The results of CDK9 assay showed that the derivatives with pyridin-4-yl in position 2 and benzyl in position 3 of imadazo[1,2-a]pyrazine 3c displayed the most potent CDK9 inhibitory activity with IC50 of 0.16 µM. The anti-proliferative effect of the new compounds was examined against breast cancer (MCF7), colorectal cancer (HCT116), and chronic myelogenous leukaemia (K652) cell lines. The data of MTT assay showed that the cytotoxic effect of the inhibitors is correlated to their inhibitory activity against CDK9. Compound 3c exhibited the most potent cytotoxicity effect with average IC50s of three cell lines of 6.66 µM. The drug likeness properties of 3c were predicated in silico and demonstrated that 3c have reasonable physiochemical and pharmacokinetic properties. Selected derivatives were assessed in antiviral assay against human coronavirus 229E. The results of this assay showed that the derivative with pyridin-4-yl in position 2 and cyclohexyl in position 3 of imadazo[1,2-a]pyrazine 3b exhibited the most potent anti-coronaviral activity with IC50 of 56.96 µM and selectivity index of 7.14. The target predication result revealed that 3b showed high affinity to protease enzyme. Docking studies of 3b with COVID-19 main protease was conducted and showed good binding affinity, which confirmed the in vitro assay data.
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Affiliation(s)
- Aisha A. Alsfouk
- Department of Pharmaceutical Sciences, College of Pharmacy, Princess Nourah Bint Abdulrahman University, Riyadh 11671, Saudi Arabia; (B.A.A.); (N.A.A.)
- Correspondence:
| | - Hanan M. Alshibl
- Department of Pharmaceutical Chemistry, College of Pharmacy, King Saud University, Riyadh 11451, Saudi Arabia; (H.M.A.); (E.S.A.-A.)
| | - Bshra A. Alsfouk
- Department of Pharmaceutical Sciences, College of Pharmacy, Princess Nourah Bint Abdulrahman University, Riyadh 11671, Saudi Arabia; (B.A.A.); (N.A.A.)
| | - Najla A. Altwaijry
- Department of Pharmaceutical Sciences, College of Pharmacy, Princess Nourah Bint Abdulrahman University, Riyadh 11671, Saudi Arabia; (B.A.A.); (N.A.A.)
| | - Ebtehal S. Al-Abdullah
- Department of Pharmaceutical Chemistry, College of Pharmacy, King Saud University, Riyadh 11451, Saudi Arabia; (H.M.A.); (E.S.A.-A.)
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20
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Targeting cyclin-dependent kinase 9 in cancer therapy. Acta Pharmacol Sin 2022; 43:1633-1645. [PMID: 34811514 PMCID: PMC9253122 DOI: 10.1038/s41401-021-00796-0] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/09/2021] [Accepted: 10/12/2021] [Indexed: 12/12/2022] Open
Abstract
Cyclin-dependent kinase (CDK) 9 associates mainly with cyclin T1 and forms the positive transcription elongation factor b (p-TEFb) complex responsible for transcriptional regulation. It has been shown that CDK9 modulates the expression and activity of oncogenes, such as MYC and murine double minute 4 (MDM4), and it also plays an important role in development and/or maintenance of the malignant cell phenotype. Malfunction of CDK9 is frequently observed in numerous cancers. Recent studies have highlighted the function of CDK9 through a variety of mechanisms in cancers, including the formation of new complexes and epigenetic alterations. Due to the importance of CDK9 activation in cancer cells, CDK9 inhibitors have emerged as promising candidates for cancer therapy. Natural product-derived and chemically synthesized CDK9 inhibitors are being examined in preclinical and clinical research. In this review, we summarize the current knowledge on the role of CDK9 in transcriptional regulation, epigenetic regulation, and different cellular factor interactions, focusing on new advances. We show the importance of CDK9 in mediating tumorigenesis and tumor progression. Then, we provide an overview of some CDK9 inhibitors supported by multiple oncologic preclinical and clinical investigations. Finally, we discuss the perspective and challenge of CDK9 modulation in cancer.
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21
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Huang F, Feng Y, Peterlin BM, Fujinaga K. P-TEFb is degraded by Siah1/2 in quiescent cells. Nucleic Acids Res 2022; 50:5000-5013. [PMID: 35524561 PMCID: PMC9122529 DOI: 10.1093/nar/gkac291] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/28/2021] [Revised: 04/05/2022] [Accepted: 04/12/2022] [Indexed: 11/12/2022] Open
Abstract
P-TEFb, composed of CycT1 and CDK9, regulates the elongation of transcription by RNA polymerase II. In proliferating cells, it is regulated by 7SK snRNA in the 7SK snRNP complex. In resting cells, P-TEFb is absent, because CycT1 is dephosphorylated, released from CDK9 and rapidly degraded. In this study, we identified the mechanism of this degradation. We mapped the ubiquitination and degradation of free CycT1 to its N-terminal region from positions 1 to 280. This region is ubiquitinated at six lysines, where E3 ligases Siah1 and Siah2 bind and degrade these sequences. Importantly, the inhibition of Siah1/2 rescued the expression of free CycT1 in proliferating as well as resting primary cells. We conclude that Siah1/2 are the E3 ligases that bind and degrade the dissociated CycT1 in resting, terminally differentiated, anergic and/or exhausted cells.
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Affiliation(s)
- Fang Huang
- Departments of Medicine, Microbiology and Immunology, University of California, San Francisco, San Francisco, CA 94143, USA
| | - Yongmei Feng
- Cancer Center, Sanford Burnham Prebys Medical Discovery Institute, La Jolla, CA 92037, USA
| | - B Matija Peterlin
- Departments of Medicine, Microbiology and Immunology, University of California, San Francisco, San Francisco, CA 94143, USA
| | - Koh Fujinaga
- Departments of Medicine, Microbiology and Immunology, University of California, San Francisco, San Francisco, CA 94143, USA
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22
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Borowczak J, Szczerbowski K, Maniewski M, Zdrenka M, Słupski P, Antosik P, Kołodziejska S, Sekielska-Domanowska M, Dubiel M, Bodnar M, Szylberg Ł. The Prognostic Role of CDK9 in Bladder Cancer. Cancers (Basel) 2022; 14:cancers14061492. [PMID: 35326643 PMCID: PMC8945910 DOI: 10.3390/cancers14061492] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/20/2022] [Revised: 03/10/2022] [Accepted: 03/11/2022] [Indexed: 12/27/2022] Open
Abstract
Introduction: Most patients with urothelial carcinoma are diagnosed with non-invasive tumors, but the prognosis worsens with the progression of the disease. Overexpression of cyclin-dependent kinase 9 has been recently linked to increased cancer proliferation, faster progression, and worse prognosis. However, some cancers seem to contradict this rule. In this work, we explored the prognostic role of CDK9 expression in urothelial carcinoma. Materials and Methods: We performed immunohistochemical analysis on 72 bladder cancer samples. To assess a larger group of patients, the Cancer Genome Atlas (TCGA) database containing 406 cases and transcriptomics information through the Human Pathology Atlas were analyzed. Results: CDK9 is overexpressed in urothelial cancer tissues when compared to normal urothelial tissues (p < 0.05). High CDK9 expression was observed in low-stage, low-grade, and non-muscle-invasive tumors (p < 0.05). The patients with high CDK9 expression had a significantly higher 5-year overall survival rate than those with low CDK9 expression (77.54% vs. 53.6% in the TMA group and 57.75% vs. 35.44% in the TCGA group, respectively) (p < 0.05). The results were consistent in both cohorts. Multivariate Cox regression analysis indicated that low CDK9 status was an independent predictor for poor prognosis in the TCGA cohort (HR 1.60, CL95% 1.1−2.33, p = 0.014). Conclusions: High CDK9 expression predicts a favorable prognosis in urothelial carcinoma and is associated with clinicopathological features characteristic for early-stage disease. The decrease in CDK9 expression can be associated with the build-up of genetic instability and may indicate a key role for CDK9 in the early stages of urothelial carcinoma.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jędrzej Borowczak
- Department of Clinical Pathomorphology, Collegium Medicum in Bydgoszcz, Nicolaus Copernicus University in Torun, 85-094 Bydgoszcz, Poland; (K.S.); (M.M.); (P.A.); (M.B.); (Ł.S.)
- Correspondence: ; Tel.: +48-52-5854200; Fax: +48-52-5854049
| | - Krzysztof Szczerbowski
- Department of Clinical Pathomorphology, Collegium Medicum in Bydgoszcz, Nicolaus Copernicus University in Torun, 85-094 Bydgoszcz, Poland; (K.S.); (M.M.); (P.A.); (M.B.); (Ł.S.)
| | - Mateusz Maniewski
- Department of Clinical Pathomorphology, Collegium Medicum in Bydgoszcz, Nicolaus Copernicus University in Torun, 85-094 Bydgoszcz, Poland; (K.S.); (M.M.); (P.A.); (M.B.); (Ł.S.)
| | - Marek Zdrenka
- Department of Tumor Pathology and Pathomorphology, Oncology Centre—Prof. Franciszek Łukaszczyk Memorial Hospital, 85-796 Bydgoszcz, Poland;
| | - Piotr Słupski
- Department of Urology, University Hospital No. 2 im. Dr. Jan Biziel in Bydgoszcz, 85-168 Bydgoszcz, Poland;
| | - Paulina Antosik
- Department of Clinical Pathomorphology, Collegium Medicum in Bydgoszcz, Nicolaus Copernicus University in Torun, 85-094 Bydgoszcz, Poland; (K.S.); (M.M.); (P.A.); (M.B.); (Ł.S.)
| | - Sylwia Kołodziejska
- Chair of Pathology, University Hospital No. 2 im. Dr. Jan Biziel in Bydgoszcz, 85-168 Bydgoszcz, Poland;
| | - Marta Sekielska-Domanowska
- Department of Obstetrics, Gynecology and Oncology, Ludwik Rydygier Collegium Medicum in Bydgoszcz, Nicolaus Copernicus University in Toruń, 85-168 Bydgoszcz, Poland; (M.S.-D.); (M.D.)
| | - Mariusz Dubiel
- Department of Obstetrics, Gynecology and Oncology, Ludwik Rydygier Collegium Medicum in Bydgoszcz, Nicolaus Copernicus University in Toruń, 85-168 Bydgoszcz, Poland; (M.S.-D.); (M.D.)
| | - Magdalena Bodnar
- Department of Clinical Pathomorphology, Collegium Medicum in Bydgoszcz, Nicolaus Copernicus University in Torun, 85-094 Bydgoszcz, Poland; (K.S.); (M.M.); (P.A.); (M.B.); (Ł.S.)
- Chair of Pathology, University Hospital No. 2 im. Dr. Jan Biziel in Bydgoszcz, 85-168 Bydgoszcz, Poland;
| | - Łukasz Szylberg
- Department of Clinical Pathomorphology, Collegium Medicum in Bydgoszcz, Nicolaus Copernicus University in Torun, 85-094 Bydgoszcz, Poland; (K.S.); (M.M.); (P.A.); (M.B.); (Ł.S.)
- Department of Tumor Pathology and Pathomorphology, Oncology Centre—Prof. Franciszek Łukaszczyk Memorial Hospital, 85-796 Bydgoszcz, Poland;
- Chair of Pathology, University Hospital No. 2 im. Dr. Jan Biziel in Bydgoszcz, 85-168 Bydgoszcz, Poland;
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23
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An Orally Bioavailable and Highly Efficacious Inhibitor of CDK9/FLT3 for the Treatment of Acute Myeloid Leukemia. Cancers (Basel) 2022; 14:cancers14051113. [PMID: 35267421 PMCID: PMC8909834 DOI: 10.3390/cancers14051113] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/31/2021] [Revised: 02/15/2022] [Accepted: 02/17/2022] [Indexed: 01/27/2023] Open
Abstract
Mutations in FMS-like tyrosine kinase 3 (FLT3) occur in approximately one-third of AML patients and are associated with a particularly poor prognosis. The most common mutation, FLT3-ITD, is a self-activating internal tandem duplication (ITD) in the FLT3 juxtamembrane domain. Many FLT3 inhibitors have shown encouraging results in clinical trials, but the rapid emergence of resistance has severely limited sustainable efficacy. Co-targeting of CDK9 and FLT3 is a promising two-pronged strategy to overcome resistance as the former plays a role in the transcription of cancer cell-survival genes. Most prominently, MCL-1 is known to be associated with AML tumorigenesis and drug resistance and can be down-regulated by CDK9 inhibition. We have developed CDDD11-8 as a potent CDK9 inhibitor co-targeting FLT3-ITD with Ki values of 8 and 13 nM, respectively. The kinome selectivity has been confirmed when the compound was tested in a panel of 369 human kinases. CDDD11-8 displayed antiproliferative activity against leukemia cell lines, and particularly potent effects were observed against MV4-11 and MOLM-13 cells, which are known to harbor the FLT3-ITD mutation and mixed lineage leukemia (MLL) fusion proteins. The mode of action was consistent with inhibition of CDK9 and FLT3-ITD. Most importantly, CDDD11-8 caused a robust tumor growth inhibition by oral administration in animal xenografts. At 125 mg/kg, CDDD11-8 induced tumor regression, and this was translated to an improved survival of animals. The study demonstrates the potential of CDDD11-8 towards the future development of a novel AML treatment.
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24
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Ouyang X, Lv L, Zhao Y, Zhang F, Hu Q, Li Z, Zhu D, Li L. ASF1B Serves as a Potential Therapeutic Target by Influencing Cell Cycle and Proliferation in Hepatocellular Carcinoma. Front Oncol 2022; 11:801506. [PMID: 35087760 PMCID: PMC8787347 DOI: 10.3389/fonc.2021.801506] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/09/2021] [Accepted: 12/20/2021] [Indexed: 12/12/2022] Open
Abstract
Hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) is one of the most common malignant tumors with high morbidity and mortality. Therefore, it is very important to find potential biomarkers that can effectively predict the prognosis and progression of HCC. Recent studies have shown that anti-silencing function 1B (ASF1B) may be a new proliferative marker for tumor diagnosis and prognosis. However, the expression and function of ASF1B in hepatocellular carcinoma remain to be determined. In this study, integrated analysis of the Cancer Genome Atlas (TCGA), genotypic tissue expression (GTEx), and Gene Expression Omnibus (GEO) databases revealed that ASF1B was highly expressed in HCC. Kaplan-Meier survival curve showed that elevated ASF1B expression was associated with poor survival in patients with liver cancer. Correlation analysis of immune infiltration suggested that ASF1B expression was significantly correlated with immune cell infiltration in HCC patients. Gene set enrichment analysis (GSEA) indicated that ASF1B regulated the cell cycle, DNA Replication and oocyte meiosis signaling. Our experiments confirmed that ASF1B was highly expressed in HCC tissues and HCC cell lines. Silence of ASF1B inhibited hepatocellular carcinoma cell growth in vitro. Furthermore, ASF1B deficiency induced apoptosis and cell cycle arrest. Mechanistically, ASF1B knockdown reduced the expression of proliferating cell nuclear antigen (PCNA), cyclinB1, cyclinE2 and CDK9.Moreover, ASF1B interacted with CDK9 in HCC cells. Taken together, these results suggest that the oncogenic gene ASF1B could be a target for inhibiting hepatocellular carcinoma cell growth.
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Affiliation(s)
- Xiaoxi Ouyang
- State Key Laboratory for Diagnosis and Treatment of Infectious Diseases, National Clinical Research Centre for Infectious Diseases, Collaborative Innovation Centre for Diagnosis and Treatment of Infectious Diseases, The First Affiliated Hospital, Zhejiang University School of Medicine, Hangzhou, China
| | - Longxian Lv
- State Key Laboratory for Diagnosis and Treatment of Infectious Diseases, National Clinical Research Centre for Infectious Diseases, Collaborative Innovation Centre for Diagnosis and Treatment of Infectious Diseases, The First Affiliated Hospital, Zhejiang University School of Medicine, Hangzhou, China
| | - Yalei Zhao
- State Key Laboratory for Diagnosis and Treatment of Infectious Diseases, National Clinical Research Centre for Infectious Diseases, Collaborative Innovation Centre for Diagnosis and Treatment of Infectious Diseases, The First Affiliated Hospital, Zhejiang University School of Medicine, Hangzhou, China
| | - Fen Zhang
- State Key Laboratory for Diagnosis and Treatment of Infectious Diseases, National Clinical Research Centre for Infectious Diseases, Collaborative Innovation Centre for Diagnosis and Treatment of Infectious Diseases, The First Affiliated Hospital, Zhejiang University School of Medicine, Hangzhou, China
| | - Qingqing Hu
- State Key Laboratory for Diagnosis and Treatment of Infectious Diseases, National Clinical Research Centre for Infectious Diseases, Collaborative Innovation Centre for Diagnosis and Treatment of Infectious Diseases, The First Affiliated Hospital, Zhejiang University School of Medicine, Hangzhou, China
| | - Zuhong Li
- State Key Laboratory for Diagnosis and Treatment of Infectious Diseases, National Clinical Research Centre for Infectious Diseases, Collaborative Innovation Centre for Diagnosis and Treatment of Infectious Diseases, The First Affiliated Hospital, Zhejiang University School of Medicine, Hangzhou, China
| | - Danhua Zhu
- State Key Laboratory for Diagnosis and Treatment of Infectious Diseases, National Clinical Research Centre for Infectious Diseases, Collaborative Innovation Centre for Diagnosis and Treatment of Infectious Diseases, The First Affiliated Hospital, Zhejiang University School of Medicine, Hangzhou, China
| | - Lanjuan Li
- State Key Laboratory for Diagnosis and Treatment of Infectious Diseases, National Clinical Research Centre for Infectious Diseases, Collaborative Innovation Centre for Diagnosis and Treatment of Infectious Diseases, The First Affiliated Hospital, Zhejiang University School of Medicine, Hangzhou, China
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25
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Borowczak J, Szczerbowski K, Ahmadi N, Szylberg Ł. CDK9 inhibitors in multiple myeloma: a review of progress and perspectives. Med Oncol 2022; 39:39. [PMID: 35092513 PMCID: PMC8800928 DOI: 10.1007/s12032-021-01636-1] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/07/2021] [Accepted: 12/21/2021] [Indexed: 12/05/2022]
Abstract
Currently, multiple myeloma is not yet considered a curable disease. Despite the recent advances in therapy, the average patient lifespan is still unsatisfactory. Recently, CDK9 inhibitors emerged as a suitable agent to overcome resistance and prolong survival in patients with poor diagnoses. Downregulation of c-MYC, XIAP, Mcl-1 and restoration of p53 tumor-suppressive functions seems to play a key role in achieving clinical response. The applicability of the first generation of CDK9 inhibitors was limited due to relatively high toxicity, but the introduction of novel, highly selective drugs, seems to reduce the effects of off-target inhibition. CDK9 inhibitors were able to induce dose-dependent cytotoxicity in Doxorubicin-resistant, Lenalidomide-resistant and Bortezomib-resistant cell lines. They seem to be effective in cell lines with unfavorable prognostic factors, such as p53 deletion, t(4; 14) and t(14; 16). In preclinical trials, the application of CDK9 inhibitors led to tumor cells apoptosis, tumor growth inhibition and tumor mass reduction. Synergistic effects between CDK9 inhibitors and either Venetoclax, Bortezomib, Lenalidomide or Erlotinib have been proven and are awaiting verification in clinical trials. Although conclusions should be drawn with due care, obtained reports suggest that including CDK9 inhibitors into the current drug regimen may turn out to be beneficial, especially in poor prognosis patients.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jędrzej Borowczak
- Department of Clinical Pathomorphology, Collegium Medicum in Bydgoszcz, Nicolaus Copernicus University in Torun, Bydgoszcz, Poland.
| | - Krzysztof Szczerbowski
- Department of Clinical Pathomorphology, Collegium Medicum in Bydgoszcz, Nicolaus Copernicus University in Torun, Bydgoszcz, Poland
| | - Navid Ahmadi
- Department of Cardiothoracic Surgery, Royal Papworth Hospital, Cambridge, UK
| | - Łukasz Szylberg
- Department of Clinical Pathomorphology, Collegium Medicum in Bydgoszcz, Nicolaus Copernicus University in Torun, Bydgoszcz, Poland
- Department of Tumor Pathology and Pathomorphology, Oncology Centre-Prof. Franciszek Łukaszczyk Memorial Hospital, Bydgoszcz, Poland
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26
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Flavopiridol Mitigates the Progression of Monocrotaline-Induced Pulmonary Hypertension in Rats by Targeting Cyclin-Dependent Kinase 9. Cardiovasc Drugs Ther 2022; 37:449-460. [PMID: 35088192 PMCID: PMC10164032 DOI: 10.1007/s10557-021-07285-w] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 10/28/2021] [Indexed: 11/03/2022]
Abstract
PURPOSE To investigate the role of cyclin-dependent kinase 9 (CDK9) and the therapeutic potential of a CDK9 inhibitor (flavopiridol) in monocrotaline (MCT)-induced pulmonary hypertension (PH). METHODS For the in vivo experiments, rats with PH were established by a single intraperitoneal injection of MCT (60 mg/kg). After 2 weeks of MCT injection, rats were then treated with flavopiridol (5 mg/kg, i.p., twice a week) or vehicle for 2 weeks. For the in vitro experiments, human pulmonary artery smooth muscle cells (HPASMCs) were treated with flavopiridol (0.025-1 μM) or vehicle under hypoxic conditions. Hemodynamic recording, right ventricle histology, lung histology, and pulmonary arterial tissue isolation were performed. The expression levels of CDK9, RNA polymerase II, c-Myc, Mcl-1, and survivin were determined by qRT-PCR and western blotting, and the proliferation and apoptosis of rat pulmonary arterial tissues and/or HPASMCs were also assayed. RESULTS Compared to the control group, CDK9 was upregulated in pulmonary arterial tissues from MCT-induced PH rats and hypoxic cultured HPASMCs. Upregulation of CDK9 was associated with enhanced phosphorylation of the C-terminal domain (CTD) of RNA polymerase II (RNA pol II) at serine-2 (Ser-2), promoting the expression of prosurvival and antiapoptotic proteins (c-Myc, Mcl-1, and survivin). Furthermore, treatment with flavopiridol (5 mg/kg) significantly alleviated pulmonary artery remodeling and partially reversed the progression of MCT-induced PH. Consistently, flavopiridol (0.5 μM) treatment decreased the proliferation and induced the apoptosis of cultured HPASMCs under hypoxic conditions. As a result of CDK9 inhibition and subsequent inhibition of RNA pol II CTD phosphorylation at Ser-2, flavopiridol decreased c-Myc, Mcl-1, and survivin expression in isolated pulmonary small arteries, leading to cell growth inhibition and apoptosis. CONCLUSION Flavopiridol mitigates the progression of MCT-induced PH in rats by targeting CDK9.
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27
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Yuan J, Li X, Yu S. CDK7-dependent transcriptional addiction in bone and soft tissue sarcomas: Present and Future. Biochim Biophys Acta Rev Cancer 2022; 1877:188680. [PMID: 35051528 DOI: 10.1016/j.bbcan.2022.188680] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/12/2021] [Revised: 01/11/2022] [Accepted: 01/11/2022] [Indexed: 12/25/2022]
Abstract
Cancer arises from genetic alterations that invariably contribute to dysregulated transcriptional programs. These dysregulated programs establish and maintain specific cancer cell states, leading to an intensive dependence on a set of certain regulators of gene expression. The CDK7 functions as the core of transcription, and governs RNA polymerase II and the downstream oncogenes expression in cancers. CDK7 inhibition leads to reduced recruitment of super-enhancers-driven oncogenic transcription factors, and the depression of these associated oncogenes expression, which indicates the dependence of transcriptional addiction of cancers on CDK7. Given that specified oncoproteins of sarcomas commonly function at oncogenic transcription, targeting CDK7-denpendent transcriptional addiction may be of guiding significance for the treatment of sarcomas. In this review, we summarize the advances in mechanism of targeted CDK7-dependent transcriptional addiction and discuss the path ahead to potential application discovery in bone and soft tissue sarcomas, providing theoretical considerations for bio-orthogonal therapeutic strategies.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jin Yuan
- Department of Orthopedics, National Cancer Center/National Clinical Research Center for Cancer/Cancer Hospital, Chinese Academy of Medical sciences and Peking Union Medical College, Beijing, China
| | - Xiaoyang Li
- Department of Orthopedics, National Cancer Center/National Clinical Research Center for Cancer/Cancer Hospital, Chinese Academy of Medical sciences and Peking Union Medical College, Beijing, China.
| | - Shengji Yu
- Department of Orthopedics, National Cancer Center/National Clinical Research Center for Cancer/Cancer Hospital, Chinese Academy of Medical sciences and Peking Union Medical College, Beijing, China.
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28
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Oskouie AA, Ahmadi MS, Taherkhani A. Identification of Prognostic Biomarkers in Papillary Thyroid Cancer and Developing Non-Invasive Diagnostic Models Through Integrated Bioinformatics Analysis. Microrna 2022; 11:73-87. [PMID: 35068400 DOI: 10.2174/2211536611666220124115445] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/30/2021] [Revised: 12/21/2021] [Accepted: 12/31/2021] [Indexed: 06/14/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Papillary thyroid cancer (PTC) is the most frequent subtype of thyroid carcinoma, mainly detected in patients with benign thyroid nodules (BTN). Due to the invasiveness of accurate diagnostic tests, there is a need to discover applicable biomarkers for PTC. So, in this study, we aimed to identify the genes associated with prognosis in PTC. Besides, we performed a machine learning tool to develop a non-invasive diagnostic approach for PTC. METHODS For the study purposes, the miRNA dataset GSE130512 was downloaded from the GEO database and then analyzed to identify the common differentially expressed miRNAs in patients with non-metastatic PTC (nm-PTC)/metastatic PTC (m-PTC) compared with BTNs. The SVM was also applied to differentiate patients with PTC from those patients with BTN using the common DEMs. A protein-protein interaction network was also constructed based on the targets of the common DEMs. Next, functional analysis was performed, the hub genes were determined, and survival analysis was then executed. RESULTS A total of three common miRNAs were found to be differentially expressed among patients with nm-PTC/m-PTC compared with BTNs. In addition, it was established that the autophagosome maturation, ciliary basal body-plasma membrane docking, antigen processing as ubiquitination & proteasome degradation, and class I MHC mediated antigen processing & presentation are associated with the pathogenesis of PTC. Furthermore, it was illustrated that RPS6KB1, CCNT1, SP1, and CHD4 might serve as new potential biomarkers for PTC prognosis. CONCLUSION RPS6KB1, CCNT1, SP1, and CHD4 may be considered new potential biomarkers used for prognostic aims in PTC. However, performing validation tests is inevitable in the future.
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Affiliation(s)
- Afsaneh Arefi Oskouie
- Department of Basic Science, Faculty of Paramedical Sciences, Shahid Beheshti University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran
| | - Mohammad Saeed Ahmadi
- Department of Otorhinolaryngology, Besat Hospital, Hamadan University of Medical Sciences, Hamadan, Iran
| | - Amir Taherkhani
- Research Center for Molecular Medicine, Hamadan University of Medical Sciences, Hamadan, Iran
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29
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Abstract
Proteolysis-targeting chimeras are a new modality of chemical tools and potential therapeutics involving the induction of protein degradation. Cyclin-dependent kinase (CDK) protein, which is involved in cycles and transcription cycles, participates in regulation of the cell cycle, transcription and splicing. Proteolysis-targeting chimeras targeting CDKs show several advantages over traditional CDK small-molecule inhibitors in potency, selectivity and drug resistance. In addition, the discovery of molecule glues promotes the development of CDK degraders. Herein, the authors describe the existing CDK degraders and focus on the discussion of the structural characteristics and design of these degraders.
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30
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Malakoti F, Targhazeh N, Karimzadeh H, Mohammadi E, Asadi M, Asemi Z, Alemi F. The Multiple Function of lncRNA MALAT1 in Cancer Occurrence and Progression. Chem Biol Drug Des 2021; 101:1113-1137. [PMID: 34918470 DOI: 10.1111/cbdd.14006] [Citation(s) in RCA: 13] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/31/2021] [Revised: 11/29/2021] [Accepted: 12/09/2021] [Indexed: 11/28/2022]
Abstract
Long non-coding RNAs (lncRNAs) have received particular attention in the last decade due to its engaging in carcinogenesis and tumorigenesis. Metastasis-associated lung adenocarcinoma transcript 1 (MALAT1) is a lncRNA that plays physiological and pathological roles in many aspects of genome function as well as biological processes involved in cell development, differentiation, proliferation, invasion, and migration. In this article, we will review the effects of lncRNA MALAT1 on the progression of six prevalent human cancers by focusing on MALAT1 ability to regulate post-transcriptional modification and signaling pathways.
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Affiliation(s)
- Faezeh Malakoti
- Department of Biochemistry and Clinical Laboratories, Faculty of Medicine, Tabriz University of Medical Sciences, Tabriz, Iran.,Student's Research committee, Tabriz University of Medical Sciences, Tabriz, Iran
| | - Niloufar Targhazeh
- Department of Biochemistry and Clinical Laboratories, Faculty of Medicine, Tabriz University of Medical Sciences, Tabriz, Iran
| | - Haniye Karimzadeh
- Department of Clinical Biochemistry, School of Pharmacy & Isfahan Pharmaceutical Sciences Research Center, Isfahan University of Medical Sciences, Isfahan, Iran
| | - Erfan Mohammadi
- Department of Biology, Faculty of Natural Sciences, University of Tabriz, Tabriz, Iran.,Drugs Applied Research Center, Tabriz University of Medical Sciences, Tabriz, Iran
| | - Milad Asadi
- Drugs Applied Research Center, Tabriz University of Medical Sciences, Tabriz, Iran
| | - Zatollah Asemi
- Research Center for Biochemistry and Nutrition in Metabolic Diseases, Kashan University of Medical Sciences, Kashan, Iran
| | - Forough Alemi
- Department of Biochemistry and Clinical Laboratories, Faculty of Medicine, Tabriz University of Medical Sciences, Tabriz, Iran
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31
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Liu Y, Fu L, Wu J, Liu M, Wang G, Liu B, Zhang L. Transcriptional cyclin-dependent kinases: Potential drug targets in cancer therapy. Eur J Med Chem 2021; 229:114056. [PMID: 34942431 DOI: 10.1016/j.ejmech.2021.114056] [Citation(s) in RCA: 12] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/25/2021] [Revised: 12/14/2021] [Accepted: 12/14/2021] [Indexed: 02/08/2023]
Abstract
In the wake of the development of the concept of cell cycle and its limiting points, cyclin-dependent kinases (CDKs) are considered to play a central role in regulating cell cycle progression. Recent studies have strongly demonstrated that CDKs also has multiple functions, especially in response to extracellular and intracellular signals by interfering with transcriptional events. Consequently, how to inhibit their function has been a hot research topic. It is worth noting that the key role of CDKs in regulating transcription has been explored in recent years, but its related pharmacological targets are less developed, and most inhibitors have not entered the clinical stage. Accordingly, this perspective focus on the biological functions of transcription related CDKs and their complexes, some key upstream and downstream signals, and inhibitors for cancer treatment in recent years. In addition, some corresponding combined treatment strategies will provide a more novel perspective for future cancer remedy.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yi Liu
- Sichuan Engineering Research Center for Biomimetic Synthesis of Natural Drugs, School of Life Science and Engineering, Southwest Jiaotong University, 610031, Chengdu, China
| | - Leilei Fu
- Sichuan Engineering Research Center for Biomimetic Synthesis of Natural Drugs, School of Life Science and Engineering, Southwest Jiaotong University, 610031, Chengdu, China
| | - Junhao Wu
- Department of Otolaryngology, Head and Neck Surgery, West China Hospital, Sichuan University, Chengdu, China
| | - Ming Liu
- Department of Orthopedics, West China Hospital, Sichuan University, Chengdu, 610041, China.
| | - Guan Wang
- State Key Laboratory of Biotherapy and Cancer Center, Innovation Center of Nursing Research, Nursing Key Laboratory of Sichuan Province, West China Hospital, and Collaborative Innovation Center of Biotherapy, Sichuan University, Chengdu, 610041, China.
| | - Bo Liu
- State Key Laboratory of Biotherapy and Cancer Center, Innovation Center of Nursing Research, Nursing Key Laboratory of Sichuan Province, West China Hospital, and Collaborative Innovation Center of Biotherapy, Sichuan University, Chengdu, 610041, China
| | - Lan Zhang
- Sichuan Engineering Research Center for Biomimetic Synthesis of Natural Drugs, School of Life Science and Engineering, Southwest Jiaotong University, 610031, Chengdu, China.
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32
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Alsfouk A. Small molecule inhibitors of cyclin-dependent kinase 9 for cancer therapy. J Enzyme Inhib Med Chem 2021; 36:693-706. [PMID: 33632038 PMCID: PMC7919902 DOI: 10.1080/14756366.2021.1890726] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/05/2020] [Revised: 02/01/2021] [Accepted: 02/09/2021] [Indexed: 01/23/2023] Open
Abstract
Cyclin-dependent kinase 9 (CDK9) plays a vital role in transcription through regulation of short-lived anti-apoptotic genes required for cancer cell survival. Therefore, targeting CDK9 with small molecule inhibitors has emerged as a potential cancer therapy. This article reviews the most recent CDK9 patent literature (2012-2020) related to small molecule inhibitors in cancer along with their selectivity profile and biological results in preclinical studies.
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Affiliation(s)
- Aisha Alsfouk
- Department of Pharmaceutical Sciences, College of Pharmacy, Princess Nourah bint Abdulrahman University, Riyadh, Saudi Arabia
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33
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Huang F, Nguyen TT, Echeverria I, Rakesh R, Cary DC, Paculova H, Sali A, Weiss A, Peterlin BM, Fujinaga K. Reversible phosphorylation of cyclin T1 promotes assembly and stability of P-TEFb. eLife 2021; 10:68473. [PMID: 34821217 PMCID: PMC8648303 DOI: 10.7554/elife.68473] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/17/2021] [Accepted: 11/19/2021] [Indexed: 01/06/2023] Open
Abstract
The positive transcription elongation factor b (P-TEFb) is a critical coactivator for transcription of most cellular and viral genes, including those of HIV. While P-TEFb is regulated by 7SK snRNA in proliferating cells, P-TEFb is absent due to diminished levels of CycT1 in quiescent and terminally differentiated cells, which has remained unexplored. In these cells, we found that CycT1 not bound to CDK9 is rapidly degraded. Moreover, productive CycT1:CDK9 interactions are increased by PKC-mediated phosphorylation of CycT1 in human cells. Conversely, dephosphorylation of CycT1 by PP1 reverses this process. Thus, PKC inhibitors or removal of PKC by chronic activation results in P-TEFb disassembly and CycT1 degradation. This finding not only recapitulates P-TEFb depletion in resting CD4+ T cells but also in anergic T cells. Importantly, our studies reveal mechanisms of P-TEFb inactivation underlying T cell quiescence, anergy, and exhaustion as well as proviral latency and terminally differentiated cells.
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Affiliation(s)
- Fang Huang
- Departments of Medicine, Microbiology and Immunology, University of California, San Francisco, San Francisco, United States.,Department of Medicine, San Francisco, United States
| | - Trang Tt Nguyen
- Departments of Medicine, Microbiology and Immunology, University of California, San Francisco, San Francisco, United States.,Department of Medicine, San Francisco, United States.,The Howard Hughes Medical Institute, San Francisco, United States
| | - Ignacia Echeverria
- Department of Bioengineering and Therapeutic Sciences, University of California, San Francisco, San Francisco, United States.,Departmentof Cellular Molecular Pharmacology, California Institute for Quantitative Biosciences (QBI), and Department of Bioengineering and Therapeutic Sciences, San Francisco, United States
| | - Ramachandran Rakesh
- Department of Bioengineering and Therapeutic Sciences, University of California, San Francisco, San Francisco, United States.,Departmentof Cellular Molecular Pharmacology, California Institute for Quantitative Biosciences (QBI), and Department of Bioengineering and Therapeutic Sciences, San Francisco, United States
| | - Daniele C Cary
- Departments of Medicine, Microbiology and Immunology, University of California, San Francisco, San Francisco, United States.,Department of Medicine, San Francisco, United States
| | - Hana Paculova
- Departments of Medicine, Microbiology and Immunology, University of California, San Francisco, San Francisco, United States
| | - Andrej Sali
- Department of Bioengineering and Therapeutic Sciences, University of California, San Francisco, San Francisco, United States.,Department of Bioengineering and Therapeutic Sciences, Department of Pharmaceutical Chemistry, and California Institute for Quantitative Biosciences (QBI), San Francisco, United States
| | - Arthur Weiss
- Departments of Medicine, Microbiology and Immunology, University of California, San Francisco, San Francisco, United States.,Department of Medicine, San Francisco, United States.,The Howard Hughes Medical Institute, San Francisco, United States
| | - Boris Matija Peterlin
- Departments of Medicine, Microbiology and Immunology, University of California, San Francisco, San Francisco, United States.,Department of Medicine, San Francisco, United States
| | - Koh Fujinaga
- Departments of Medicine, Microbiology and Immunology, University of California, San Francisco, San Francisco, United States.,Department of Medicine, San Francisco, United States
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34
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Rana S, Mallareddy JR, Singh S, Boghean L, Natarajan A. Inhibitors, PROTACs and Molecular Glues as Diverse Therapeutic Modalities to Target Cyclin-Dependent Kinase. Cancers (Basel) 2021; 13:5506. [PMID: 34771669 PMCID: PMC8583118 DOI: 10.3390/cancers13215506] [Citation(s) in RCA: 13] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/28/2021] [Revised: 10/27/2021] [Accepted: 10/29/2021] [Indexed: 12/25/2022] Open
Abstract
The cyclin-dependent kinase (CDK) family of proteins play prominent roles in transcription, mRNA processing, and cell cycle regulation, making them attractive cancer targets. Palbociclib was the first FDA-approved CDK inhibitor that non-selectively targets the ATP binding sites of CDK4 and CDK6. In this review, we will briefly inventory CDK inhibitors that are either part of over 30 active clinical trials or recruiting patients. The lack of selectivity among CDKs and dose-limiting toxicities are major challenges associated with the development of CDK inhibitors. Proteolysis Targeting Chimeras (PROTACs) and Molecular Glues have emerged as alternative therapeutic modalities to target proteins. PROTACs and Molecular glues utilize the cellular protein degradation machinery to destroy the target protein. PROTACs are heterobifunctional molecules that form a ternary complex with the target protein and E3-ligase by making two distinct small molecule-protein interactions. On the other hand, Molecular glues function by converting the target protein into a "neo-substrate" for an E3 ligase. Unlike small molecule inhibitors, preclinical studies with CDK targeted PROTACs have exhibited improved CDK selectivity. Moreover, the efficacy of PROTACs and molecular glues are not tied to the dose of these molecular entities but to the formation of the ternary complex. Here, we provide an overview of PROTACs and molecular glues that modulate CDK function as emerging therapeutic modalities.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sandeep Rana
- Division of Preclinical Innovation, National Center for Advancing Translational Sciences, National Institutes of Health, Rockville, MD 20850, USA;
| | - Jayapal Reddy Mallareddy
- Eppley Institute for Research in Cancer and Allied Diseases, University of Nebraska Medical Center, Omaha, NE 68198, USA; (J.R.M.); (S.S.); (L.B.)
| | - Sarbjit Singh
- Eppley Institute for Research in Cancer and Allied Diseases, University of Nebraska Medical Center, Omaha, NE 68198, USA; (J.R.M.); (S.S.); (L.B.)
| | - Lidia Boghean
- Eppley Institute for Research in Cancer and Allied Diseases, University of Nebraska Medical Center, Omaha, NE 68198, USA; (J.R.M.); (S.S.); (L.B.)
| | - Amarnath Natarajan
- Eppley Institute for Research in Cancer and Allied Diseases, University of Nebraska Medical Center, Omaha, NE 68198, USA; (J.R.M.); (S.S.); (L.B.)
- Pharmaceutical Sciences and University of Nebraska Medical Center, Omaha, NE 68198, USA
- Genetics Cell Biology and Anatomy, University of Nebraska Medical Center, Omaha, NE 68198, USA
- Fred and Pamela Buffett Cancer Center, University of Nebraska Medical Center, Omaha, NE 68198, USA
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35
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Pieterse L, Beteck RM, Baratte B, Jesumoroti OJ, Robert T, Ruchaud S, Bach S, Legoabe LJ. Synthesis and biological evaluation of selected 7H-pyrrolo[2,3-d]pyrimidine derivatives as novel CDK9/CyclinT and Haspin inhibitors. Chem Biol Interact 2021; 349:109643. [PMID: 34508710 DOI: 10.1016/j.cbi.2021.109643] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/30/2021] [Revised: 08/07/2021] [Accepted: 09/06/2021] [Indexed: 02/07/2023]
Abstract
Protein kinases, including CDK9/CyclinT and Haspin, are regarded as potential drug targets in cancer therapy. Findings from a previous study suggested 7-azaindole as a privileged scaffold for producing inhibitors of CDK9/CyclinT and Haspin. Inspired by these findings, the current study synthesised and evaluated thirteen (13) C6-substituted 7-azaindole and twenty (20) C4-substituted structurally related 7H-pyrrolo[2,3-d]pyrimidine derivatives against a panel of protein kinases, including CDK9/CyclinT and Haspin. Eleven of the 7H-pyrrolo[2,3-d]pyrimidine derivatives exhibited activity toward CDK9/CyclinT, while 4 of compounds had activity against Haspin. The best CDK9/CyclinT (IC50 of 0.38 μM) and Haspin (IC50 of 0.11 μM) activities were achieved by compounds 7d and 7f, respectively. Hence, these compounds may be valuable starting points for development of new anti-cancer drugs.
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Affiliation(s)
- Lianie Pieterse
- Centre of Excellence for Pharmaceutical Sciences, North-West University, Private Bag X6001, Potchefstroom, 2520, South Africa
| | - Richard M Beteck
- Centre of Excellence for Pharmaceutical Sciences, North-West University, Private Bag X6001, Potchefstroom, 2520, South Africa
| | - Blandine Baratte
- Sorbonne Université, CNRS, UMR8227, Integrative Biology of Marine Models Laboratory (LBI2M), Station Biologique de Roscoff, 29680, Roscoff, France; Sorbonne Université, CNRS, FR2424, Plateforme de Criblage KISSf (Kinase Inhibitor Specialized Screening Facility), Station Biologique de Roscoff, 29680, Roscoff Cedex, France
| | - Omobolanle J Jesumoroti
- Centre of Excellence for Pharmaceutical Sciences, North-West University, Private Bag X6001, Potchefstroom, 2520, South Africa
| | - Thomas Robert
- Sorbonne Université, CNRS, UMR8227, Integrative Biology of Marine Models Laboratory (LBI2M), Station Biologique de Roscoff, 29680, Roscoff, France; Sorbonne Université, CNRS, FR2424, Plateforme de Criblage KISSf (Kinase Inhibitor Specialized Screening Facility), Station Biologique de Roscoff, 29680, Roscoff Cedex, France
| | - Sandrine Ruchaud
- Sorbonne Université, CNRS, UMR8227, Integrative Biology of Marine Models Laboratory (LBI2M), Station Biologique de Roscoff, 29680, Roscoff, France
| | - Stéphane Bach
- Centre of Excellence for Pharmaceutical Sciences, North-West University, Private Bag X6001, Potchefstroom, 2520, South Africa; Sorbonne Université, CNRS, UMR8227, Integrative Biology of Marine Models Laboratory (LBI2M), Station Biologique de Roscoff, 29680, Roscoff, France; Sorbonne Université, CNRS, FR2424, Plateforme de Criblage KISSf (Kinase Inhibitor Specialized Screening Facility), Station Biologique de Roscoff, 29680, Roscoff Cedex, France
| | - Lesetja J Legoabe
- Centre of Excellence for Pharmaceutical Sciences, North-West University, Private Bag X6001, Potchefstroom, 2520, South Africa.
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36
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Han X, Song N, Saidahmatov A, Wang P, Wang Y, Hu X, Kan W, Zhu W, Gao L, Zeng M, Wang Y, Li C, Li J, Liu H, Zhou Y, Wang J. Rational Design and Development of Novel CDK9 Inhibitors for the Treatment of Acute Myeloid Leukemia. J Med Chem 2021; 64:14647-14663. [PMID: 34477384 DOI: 10.1021/acs.jmedchem.1c01148] [Citation(s) in RCA: 13] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/25/2022]
Abstract
CDK9 is an essential drug target correlated to the development of acute myeloid leukemia (AML). Starting from the hit compound 10, which was discovered through a screening of our in-house compound library, the structural modifications were carried out based on the bioisosterism and scaffold hopping strategies. Consequently, compound 37 displayed the optimal CDK9 inhibitory activity with an IC50 value of 5.41 nM, which was nearly 1500-fold higher than compound 10. In addition, compound 37 exhibited significant antiproliferative activity in broad cancer cell lines. Further investigation of in vivo properties demonstrated that compound 37 could be orally administrated with an acceptable bioavailability (F = 33.7%). In MV-4-11 subcutaneous xenograft mouse model, compound 37 (7.5 mg/kg) could significantly suppress the tumor progression with a T/C value of 27.80%. Compound 37 represents a promising lead compound for the development of a novel class of CDK9 inhibitors for the treatment of acute myeloid leukemia.
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Affiliation(s)
- Xu Han
- State Key Laboratory of Drug Research, Shanghai Institute of Materia Medica, Chinese Academy of Sciences, 555 Zu Chong Zhi Road, Shanghai 201203, China.,University of Chinese Academy of Sciences, No. 19A Yuquan Road, Beijing 100049, China
| | - Ning Song
- State Key Laboratory of Drug Research, Shanghai Institute of Materia Medica, Chinese Academy of Sciences, 555 Zu Chong Zhi Road, Shanghai 201203, China.,University of Chinese Academy of Sciences, No. 19A Yuquan Road, Beijing 100049, China.,School of Life Science and Technology, ShanghaiTech University, 393 Middle Huaxia Road, Shanghai 201210, China
| | - Abdusaid Saidahmatov
- State Key Laboratory of Drug Research, Shanghai Institute of Materia Medica, Chinese Academy of Sciences, 555 Zu Chong Zhi Road, Shanghai 201203, China.,University of Chinese Academy of Sciences, No. 19A Yuquan Road, Beijing 100049, China
| | - Peipei Wang
- State Key Laboratory of Drug Research, Shanghai Institute of Materia Medica, Chinese Academy of Sciences, 555 Zu Chong Zhi Road, Shanghai 201203, China
| | - Yong Wang
- State Key Laboratory of Drug Research, Shanghai Institute of Materia Medica, Chinese Academy of Sciences, 555 Zu Chong Zhi Road, Shanghai 201203, China
| | - Xiaobei Hu
- State Key Laboratory of Drug Research, Shanghai Institute of Materia Medica, Chinese Academy of Sciences, 555 Zu Chong Zhi Road, Shanghai 201203, China.,University of Chinese Academy of Sciences, No. 19A Yuquan Road, Beijing 100049, China.,Zhongshan Institute of Drug Discovery, Institution for Drug Discovery Innovation, Chinese Academy of Science, Zhongshan 528400, China
| | - Weijuan Kan
- State Key Laboratory of Drug Research, Shanghai Institute of Materia Medica, Chinese Academy of Sciences, 555 Zu Chong Zhi Road, Shanghai 201203, China
| | - Wei Zhu
- State Key Laboratory of Drug Research, Shanghai Institute of Materia Medica, Chinese Academy of Sciences, 555 Zu Chong Zhi Road, Shanghai 201203, China.,University of Chinese Academy of Sciences, No. 19A Yuquan Road, Beijing 100049, China
| | - Lixin Gao
- State Key Laboratory of Drug Research, Shanghai Institute of Materia Medica, Chinese Academy of Sciences, 555 Zu Chong Zhi Road, Shanghai 201203, China
| | - Mingjie Zeng
- State Key Laboratory of Drug Research, Shanghai Institute of Materia Medica, Chinese Academy of Sciences, 555 Zu Chong Zhi Road, Shanghai 201203, China
| | - Yujie Wang
- State Key Laboratory of Drug Research, Shanghai Institute of Materia Medica, Chinese Academy of Sciences, 555 Zu Chong Zhi Road, Shanghai 201203, China
| | - Chunpu Li
- State Key Laboratory of Drug Research, Shanghai Institute of Materia Medica, Chinese Academy of Sciences, 555 Zu Chong Zhi Road, Shanghai 201203, China.,University of Chinese Academy of Sciences, No. 19A Yuquan Road, Beijing 100049, China
| | - Jia Li
- State Key Laboratory of Drug Research, Shanghai Institute of Materia Medica, Chinese Academy of Sciences, 555 Zu Chong Zhi Road, Shanghai 201203, China.,University of Chinese Academy of Sciences, No. 19A Yuquan Road, Beijing 100049, China.,School of Life Science and Technology, ShanghaiTech University, 393 Middle Huaxia Road, Shanghai 201210, China.,Zhongshan Institute of Drug Discovery, Institution for Drug Discovery Innovation, Chinese Academy of Science, Zhongshan 528400, China
| | - Hong Liu
- State Key Laboratory of Drug Research, Shanghai Institute of Materia Medica, Chinese Academy of Sciences, 555 Zu Chong Zhi Road, Shanghai 201203, China.,University of Chinese Academy of Sciences, No. 19A Yuquan Road, Beijing 100049, China.,School of Life Science and Technology, ShanghaiTech University, 393 Middle Huaxia Road, Shanghai 201210, China
| | - Yubo Zhou
- State Key Laboratory of Drug Research, Shanghai Institute of Materia Medica, Chinese Academy of Sciences, 555 Zu Chong Zhi Road, Shanghai 201203, China.,University of Chinese Academy of Sciences, No. 19A Yuquan Road, Beijing 100049, China.,Zhongshan Institute of Drug Discovery, Institution for Drug Discovery Innovation, Chinese Academy of Science, Zhongshan 528400, China
| | - Jiang Wang
- State Key Laboratory of Drug Research, Shanghai Institute of Materia Medica, Chinese Academy of Sciences, 555 Zu Chong Zhi Road, Shanghai 201203, China.,University of Chinese Academy of Sciences, No. 19A Yuquan Road, Beijing 100049, China
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37
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Huang J, Wang X, Dong R, Liu X, Li H, Zhang T, Xu J, Liu C, Zhang Y, Hou S, Tang W, Lu T, Chen Y. Discovery of N-(4-(3-isopropyl-2-methyl-2 H-indazol-5-yl)pyrimidin-2-yl)-4-(4-methylpiperazin-1-yl)quinazolin-7-amine as a Novel, Potent, and Oral Cyclin-Dependent Kinase Inhibitor against Haematological Malignancies. J Med Chem 2021; 64:12548-12571. [PMID: 34415148 DOI: 10.1021/acs.jmedchem.1c00271] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/29/2022]
Abstract
Hematologic malignancies (HM) start in blood forming tissue or in the cells of the immune system. Cyclin-dependent kinases (CDKs) regulate cell cycle progression, and some of them control cellular transcription. CDK inhibition can trigger apoptosis and could be particularly useful in hematological malignancies. Herein, we describe our efforts toward the discovery of a novel series of quinazoline derivatives as CDK inhibitors. Intensive structural modifications lead to the identification of compound 37d as the most active inhibitors of CDKs 1, 2, 4, 8 and 9 with balancing potency and selectivity against CDKs. Further biological studies revealed that compound 37d can arrest the cell cycle and induce apoptosis via activating PARP and caspase 3. More importantly, compound 37d showed good antitumor efficacy in multiple HM mice xenograft models with no obvious toxicity. These results indicated that CDK 1, 2, 4, 8, and 9 inhibitors could be potentially used to treat certain hematologic malignancies.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jianhang Huang
- School of Sciences, China Pharmaceutical University, 639 Longmian Avenue, Nanjing 211198, PR China
| | - Xinren Wang
- School of Sciences, China Pharmaceutical University, 639 Longmian Avenue, Nanjing 211198, PR China
| | - Ruinan Dong
- School of Sciences, China Pharmaceutical University, 639 Longmian Avenue, Nanjing 211198, PR China
| | - Xiaoyue Liu
- School of Sciences, China Pharmaceutical University, 639 Longmian Avenue, Nanjing 211198, PR China
| | - Hongmei Li
- School of Sciences, China Pharmaceutical University, 639 Longmian Avenue, Nanjing 211198, PR China
| | - Tianyi Zhang
- School of Sciences, China Pharmaceutical University, 639 Longmian Avenue, Nanjing 211198, PR China
| | - Junyu Xu
- School of Sciences, China Pharmaceutical University, 639 Longmian Avenue, Nanjing 211198, PR China
| | - Chenhe Liu
- School of Sciences, China Pharmaceutical University, 639 Longmian Avenue, Nanjing 211198, PR China
| | - Yanmin Zhang
- School of Sciences, China Pharmaceutical University, 639 Longmian Avenue, Nanjing 211198, PR China
| | - Shaohua Hou
- School of Sciences, China Pharmaceutical University, 639 Longmian Avenue, Nanjing 211198, PR China
| | - Weifang Tang
- School of Sciences, China Pharmaceutical University, 639 Longmian Avenue, Nanjing 211198, PR China.,State Key Laboratory of Natural Medicines, China Pharmaceutical University, 24 Tongjiaxiang, Nanjing 210009, PR China
| | - Tao Lu
- School of Sciences, China Pharmaceutical University, 639 Longmian Avenue, Nanjing 211198, PR China.,State Key Laboratory of Natural Medicines, China Pharmaceutical University, 24 Tongjiaxiang, Nanjing 210009, PR China
| | - Yadong Chen
- School of Sciences, China Pharmaceutical University, 639 Longmian Avenue, Nanjing 211198, PR China
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38
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Saidahmatov A, Liang XW, Shi YQ, Han X, Liu H. Efficient Synthesis and Docking Analysis of Selective CDK9 Inhibitor NVP-2. PHARMACEUTICAL FRONTS 2021. [DOI: 10.1055/s-0041-1735144] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/20/2022] Open
Abstract
Graphical AbstractNVP-2 (1), a potent and selective inhibitor of cyclin-dependent kinase 9 (CDK9), showed potent antitumor activity in preclinical studies. In this work, we designed and adopted a convergent synthetic route to efficiently synthesize NVP-2 (1). The key intermediate (7) was synthesized from malononitrile (2) and 1-bromo-2-(2-bromoethoxy)ethane (3) by successive cyclization, reduction, nucleophilic substitution with 2-bromo-6-fluoropyridine, and Suzuki–Miyaura reaction with (5-chloro-2-fluoropyridin-4-yl)boronic acid. Another key intermediate (11) was synthesized from (S)-1-methoxypropan-2-ol (8) by reaction with TsCl, electrophilic substitution reaction with tert-butyl ((1r,4r)-4-aminocyclohexyl)carbamate, and then by deprotection of Boc. Finally, a substitution reaction by the key intermediates (7) and (11) to afford the target product NVP-2 (1). The reaction conditions of the whole synthesis process were simple and mild, free of harsh conditions such as the microwave reaction and dangerous reagents in the original patent, and realized the efficient synthesis of NVP-2. In addition, we analyzed the binding mode of NVP-2 in the active pocket of CDK9 to provide reasonable design ideas for subsequent discovery of novel CDK9 inhibitors.
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Affiliation(s)
- Abdusaid Saidahmatov
- State Key Laboratory of Drug Research, Shanghai Institute of Materia Medica, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Shanghai, People's Republic of China
| | - Xue-Wu Liang
- State Key Laboratory of Drug Research, Shanghai Institute of Materia Medica, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Shanghai, People's Republic of China
| | - Yu-Qiang Shi
- State Key Laboratory of Drug Research, Shanghai Institute of Materia Medica, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Shanghai, People's Republic of China
| | - Xu Han
- State Key Laboratory of Drug Research, Shanghai Institute of Materia Medica, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Shanghai, People's Republic of China
| | - Hong Liu
- State Key Laboratory of Drug Research, Shanghai Institute of Materia Medica, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Shanghai, People's Republic of China
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39
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Gene Transcription as a Therapeutic Target in Leukemia. Int J Mol Sci 2021; 22:ijms22147340. [PMID: 34298959 PMCID: PMC8304797 DOI: 10.3390/ijms22147340] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/31/2021] [Revised: 07/02/2021] [Accepted: 07/05/2021] [Indexed: 12/11/2022] Open
Abstract
Blood malignancies often arise from undifferentiated hematopoietic stem cells or partially differentiated stem-like cells. A tight balance of multipotency and differentiation, cell division, and quiescence underlying normal hematopoiesis requires a special program governed by the transcriptional machinery. Acquisition of drug resistance by tumor cells also involves reprogramming of their transcriptional landscape. Limiting tumor cell plasticity by disabling reprogramming of the gene transcription is a promising strategy for improvement of treatment outcomes. Herein, we review the molecular mechanisms of action of transcription-targeted drugs in hematological malignancies (largely in leukemia) with particular respect to the results of clinical trials.
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40
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CDK9 keeps RNA polymerase II on track. Cell Mol Life Sci 2021; 78:5543-5567. [PMID: 34146121 PMCID: PMC8257543 DOI: 10.1007/s00018-021-03878-8] [Citation(s) in RCA: 42] [Impact Index Per Article: 14.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/11/2021] [Revised: 05/26/2021] [Accepted: 06/08/2021] [Indexed: 12/30/2022]
Abstract
Cyclin-dependent kinase 9 (CDK9), the kinase component of positive transcription elongation factor b (P-TEFb), is essential for transcription of most protein-coding genes by RNA polymerase II (RNAPII). By releasing promoter-proximally paused RNAPII into gene bodies, CDK9 controls the entry of RNAPII into productive elongation and is, therefore, critical for efficient synthesis of full-length messenger (m)RNAs. In recent years, new players involved in P-TEFb-dependent processes have been identified and an important function of CDK9 in coordinating elongation with transcription initiation and termination has been unveiled. As the regulatory functions of CDK9 in gene expression continue to expand, a number of human pathologies, including cancers, have been associated with aberrant CDK9 activity, underscoring the need to properly regulate CDK9. Here, I provide an overview of CDK9 function and regulation, with an emphasis on CDK9 dysregulation in human diseases.
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41
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Huang S, Luo W, Wu G, Shen Q, Zhuang Z, Yang D, Qian J, Hu X, Cai Y, Chattipakorn N, Huang W, Liang G. Inhibition of CDK9 attenuates atherosclerosis by inhibiting inflammation and phenotypic switching of vascular smooth muscle cells. Aging (Albany NY) 2021; 13:14892-14909. [PMID: 34102609 PMCID: PMC8221363 DOI: 10.18632/aging.202998] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [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: 01/30/2021] [Accepted: 03/27/2021] [Indexed: 02/07/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Recent studies have demonstrated a key role of vascular smooth muscle cell (VSMC) dysfunction in atherosclerosis. Cyclin-dependent kinases 9 (CDK9), a potential biomarker of atherosclerosis, was significantly increased in coronary artery disease patient serum and played an important role in inflammatory diseases. This study was to explore the pharmacological role of CDK9 inhibition in attenuating atherosclerosis. METHODS A small-molecule CDK9 inhibitor, LDC000067, was utilized to treat the high fat diet (HFD)-fed ApoE-/- mice and human VSMCs. RESULTS The results showed that inflammation and phenotypic switching of VSMCs were observed in HFD-induced atherosclerosis in ApoE-/- mice, which were accompanied with increased CDK9 in the serum and atherosclerotic lesions where it colocalized with VSMCs. LDC000067 treatment significantly suppressed HFD-induced inflammation, proliferation and phenotypic switching of VSMCs, resulting in reduced atherosclerosis in the ApoE-/- mice, while had no effect on plasma lipids. Further in vitro studies confirmed that LDC000067 and siRNA-mediated CDK9 knockdown reversed ox-LDL-induced inflammation and phenotypic switching of VSMCs from a contractile phenotype to a synthetic phenotype via inhibiting NF-κB signaling pathway in human VSMCs. CONCLUSION These results indicate that inhibition of CDK9 may be a novel therapeutic target for the prevention of atherosclerosis.
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Affiliation(s)
- Shushi Huang
- Chemical Biology Research Center, School of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Wenzhou Medical University, Wenzhou, Zhejiang 325035, China
- Department of Cardiology, The First Affiliated Hospital, Wenzhou Medical University, Wenzhou, Zhejiang 325035, China
| | - Wu Luo
- Chemical Biology Research Center, School of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Wenzhou Medical University, Wenzhou, Zhejiang 325035, China
- Affiliated Cangnan Hospital, Wenzhou Medical University, Cangnan, Zhejiang 325000, China
| | - Gaojun Wu
- Department of Cardiology, The First Affiliated Hospital, Wenzhou Medical University, Wenzhou, Zhejiang 325035, China
| | - Qirui Shen
- Chemical Biology Research Center, School of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Wenzhou Medical University, Wenzhou, Zhejiang 325035, China
| | - Zaishou Zhuang
- Affiliated Cangnan Hospital, Wenzhou Medical University, Cangnan, Zhejiang 325000, China
| | - Daona Yang
- Affiliated Cangnan Hospital, Wenzhou Medical University, Cangnan, Zhejiang 325000, China
| | - Jinfu Qian
- Chemical Biology Research Center, School of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Wenzhou Medical University, Wenzhou, Zhejiang 325035, China
| | - Xiang Hu
- Department of Endocrinology, The First Affiliated Hospital, Wenzhou Medical University, Wenzhou, Zhejiang 325035, China
| | - Yan Cai
- Affiliated Cangnan Hospital, Wenzhou Medical University, Cangnan, Zhejiang 325000, China
| | - Nipon Chattipakorn
- Cardiac Electrophysiology Research and Training Center, Faculty of Medicine, Chiang Mai University, Chiang Mai 50200, Thailand
| | - Weijian Huang
- Department of Cardiology, The First Affiliated Hospital, Wenzhou Medical University, Wenzhou, Zhejiang 325035, China
| | - Guang Liang
- Chemical Biology Research Center, School of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Wenzhou Medical University, Wenzhou, Zhejiang 325035, China
- Affiliated Cangnan Hospital, Wenzhou Medical University, Cangnan, Zhejiang 325000, China
- School of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Hangzhou Medical College, Hangzhou, Zhejiang 311399, China
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Wu Y, Yang Q, Wang M, Chen S, Jia R, Yang Q, Zhu D, Liu M, Zhao X, Zhang S, Huang J, Ou X, Mao S, Gao Q, Sun D, Tian B, Cheng A. Multifaceted Roles of ICP22/ORF63 Proteins in the Life Cycle of Human Herpesviruses. Front Microbiol 2021; 12:668461. [PMID: 34163446 PMCID: PMC8215345 DOI: 10.3389/fmicb.2021.668461] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/16/2021] [Accepted: 05/05/2021] [Indexed: 01/03/2023] Open
Abstract
Herpesviruses are extremely successful parasites that have evolved over millions of years to develop a variety of mechanisms to coexist with their hosts and to maintain host-to-host transmission and lifelong infection by regulating their life cycles. The life cycle of herpesviruses consists of two phases: lytic infection and latent infection. During lytic infection, active replication and the production of numerous progeny virions occur. Subsequent suppression of the host immune response leads to a lifetime latent infection of the host. During latent infection, the viral genome remains in an inactive state in the host cell to avoid host immune surveillance, but the virus can be reactivated and reenter the lytic cycle. The balance between these two phases of the herpesvirus life cycle is controlled by broad interactions among numerous viral and cellular factors. ICP22/ORF63 proteins are among these factors and are involved in transcription, nuclear budding, latency establishment, and reactivation. In this review, we summarized the various roles and complex mechanisms by which ICP22/ORF63 proteins regulate the life cycle of human herpesviruses and the complex relationships among host and viral factors. Elucidating the role and mechanism of ICP22/ORF63 in virus-host interactions will deepen our understanding of the viral life cycle. In addition, it will also help us to understand the pathogenesis of herpesvirus infections and provide new strategies for combating these infections.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ying Wu
- Institute of Preventive Veterinary Medicine, Sichuan Agricultural University, Chengdu, China
- Avian Disease Research Center, College of Veterinary Medicine, Sichuan Agricultural University, Chengdu, China
- Key Laboratory of Animal Disease and Human Health of Sichuan Province, Sichuan Agricultural University, Chengdu, China
| | - Qiqi Yang
- Institute of Preventive Veterinary Medicine, Sichuan Agricultural University, Chengdu, China
- Avian Disease Research Center, College of Veterinary Medicine, Sichuan Agricultural University, Chengdu, China
- Key Laboratory of Animal Disease and Human Health of Sichuan Province, Sichuan Agricultural University, Chengdu, China
| | - Mingshu Wang
- Institute of Preventive Veterinary Medicine, Sichuan Agricultural University, Chengdu, China
- Avian Disease Research Center, College of Veterinary Medicine, Sichuan Agricultural University, Chengdu, China
- Key Laboratory of Animal Disease and Human Health of Sichuan Province, Sichuan Agricultural University, Chengdu, China
| | - Shun Chen
- Institute of Preventive Veterinary Medicine, Sichuan Agricultural University, Chengdu, China
- Avian Disease Research Center, College of Veterinary Medicine, Sichuan Agricultural University, Chengdu, China
- Key Laboratory of Animal Disease and Human Health of Sichuan Province, Sichuan Agricultural University, Chengdu, China
| | - Renyong Jia
- Institute of Preventive Veterinary Medicine, Sichuan Agricultural University, Chengdu, China
- Avian Disease Research Center, College of Veterinary Medicine, Sichuan Agricultural University, Chengdu, China
- Key Laboratory of Animal Disease and Human Health of Sichuan Province, Sichuan Agricultural University, Chengdu, China
| | - Qiao Yang
- Institute of Preventive Veterinary Medicine, Sichuan Agricultural University, Chengdu, China
- Avian Disease Research Center, College of Veterinary Medicine, Sichuan Agricultural University, Chengdu, China
- Key Laboratory of Animal Disease and Human Health of Sichuan Province, Sichuan Agricultural University, Chengdu, China
| | - Dekang Zhu
- Avian Disease Research Center, College of Veterinary Medicine, Sichuan Agricultural University, Chengdu, China
- Key Laboratory of Animal Disease and Human Health of Sichuan Province, Sichuan Agricultural University, Chengdu, China
| | - Mafeng Liu
- Institute of Preventive Veterinary Medicine, Sichuan Agricultural University, Chengdu, China
- Avian Disease Research Center, College of Veterinary Medicine, Sichuan Agricultural University, Chengdu, China
- Key Laboratory of Animal Disease and Human Health of Sichuan Province, Sichuan Agricultural University, Chengdu, China
| | - Xinxin Zhao
- Institute of Preventive Veterinary Medicine, Sichuan Agricultural University, Chengdu, China
- Avian Disease Research Center, College of Veterinary Medicine, Sichuan Agricultural University, Chengdu, China
- Key Laboratory of Animal Disease and Human Health of Sichuan Province, Sichuan Agricultural University, Chengdu, China
| | - Shaqiu Zhang
- Institute of Preventive Veterinary Medicine, Sichuan Agricultural University, Chengdu, China
- Avian Disease Research Center, College of Veterinary Medicine, Sichuan Agricultural University, Chengdu, China
- Key Laboratory of Animal Disease and Human Health of Sichuan Province, Sichuan Agricultural University, Chengdu, China
| | - Juan Huang
- Institute of Preventive Veterinary Medicine, Sichuan Agricultural University, Chengdu, China
- Avian Disease Research Center, College of Veterinary Medicine, Sichuan Agricultural University, Chengdu, China
- Key Laboratory of Animal Disease and Human Health of Sichuan Province, Sichuan Agricultural University, Chengdu, China
| | - Xumin Ou
- Institute of Preventive Veterinary Medicine, Sichuan Agricultural University, Chengdu, China
- Avian Disease Research Center, College of Veterinary Medicine, Sichuan Agricultural University, Chengdu, China
- Key Laboratory of Animal Disease and Human Health of Sichuan Province, Sichuan Agricultural University, Chengdu, China
| | - Sai Mao
- Institute of Preventive Veterinary Medicine, Sichuan Agricultural University, Chengdu, China
- Avian Disease Research Center, College of Veterinary Medicine, Sichuan Agricultural University, Chengdu, China
- Key Laboratory of Animal Disease and Human Health of Sichuan Province, Sichuan Agricultural University, Chengdu, China
| | - Qun Gao
- Institute of Preventive Veterinary Medicine, Sichuan Agricultural University, Chengdu, China
- Avian Disease Research Center, College of Veterinary Medicine, Sichuan Agricultural University, Chengdu, China
- Key Laboratory of Animal Disease and Human Health of Sichuan Province, Sichuan Agricultural University, Chengdu, China
| | - Di Sun
- Institute of Preventive Veterinary Medicine, Sichuan Agricultural University, Chengdu, China
- Avian Disease Research Center, College of Veterinary Medicine, Sichuan Agricultural University, Chengdu, China
- Key Laboratory of Animal Disease and Human Health of Sichuan Province, Sichuan Agricultural University, Chengdu, China
| | - Bin Tian
- Institute of Preventive Veterinary Medicine, Sichuan Agricultural University, Chengdu, China
- Avian Disease Research Center, College of Veterinary Medicine, Sichuan Agricultural University, Chengdu, China
- Key Laboratory of Animal Disease and Human Health of Sichuan Province, Sichuan Agricultural University, Chengdu, China
| | - Anchun Cheng
- Institute of Preventive Veterinary Medicine, Sichuan Agricultural University, Chengdu, China
- Avian Disease Research Center, College of Veterinary Medicine, Sichuan Agricultural University, Chengdu, China
- Key Laboratory of Animal Disease and Human Health of Sichuan Province, Sichuan Agricultural University, Chengdu, China
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Anshabo AT, Milne R, Wang S, Albrecht H. CDK9: A Comprehensive Review of Its Biology, and Its Role as a Potential Target for Anti-Cancer Agents. Front Oncol 2021; 11:678559. [PMID: 34041038 PMCID: PMC8143439 DOI: 10.3389/fonc.2021.678559] [Citation(s) in RCA: 74] [Impact Index Per Article: 24.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/09/2021] [Accepted: 04/16/2021] [Indexed: 12/25/2022] Open
Abstract
Cyclin-dependent kinases (CDKs) are proteins pivotal to a wide range of cellular functions, most importantly cell division and transcription, and their dysregulations have been implicated as prominent drivers of tumorigenesis. Besides the well-established role of cell cycle CDKs in cancer, the involvement of transcriptional CDKs has been confirmed more recently. Most cancers overtly employ CDKs that serve as key regulators of transcription (e.g., CDK9) for a continuous production of short-lived gene products that maintain their survival. As such, dysregulation of the CDK9 pathway has been observed in various hematological and solid malignancies, making it a valuable anticancer target. This therapeutic potential has been utilized for the discovery of CDK9 inhibitors, some of which have entered human clinical trials. This review provides a comprehensive discussion on the structure and biology of CDK9, its role in solid and hematological cancers, and an updated review of the available inhibitors currently being investigated in preclinical and clinical settings.
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Affiliation(s)
- Abel Tesfaye Anshabo
- Drug Discovery and Development, Centre for Cancer Diagnostics and Therapeutics, Clinical and Health Sciences, University of South Australia, Adelaide, SA, Australia
| | - Robert Milne
- Drug Discovery and Development, Centre for Cancer Diagnostics and Therapeutics, Clinical and Health Sciences, University of South Australia, Adelaide, SA, Australia
| | - Shudong Wang
- Drug Discovery and Development, Centre for Cancer Diagnostics and Therapeutics, Clinical and Health Sciences, University of South Australia, Adelaide, SA, Australia
| | - Hugo Albrecht
- Drug Discovery and Development, Centre for Cancer Diagnostics and Therapeutics, Clinical and Health Sciences, University of South Australia, Adelaide, SA, Australia
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44
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Mandal R, Becker S, Strebhardt K. Targeting CDK9 for Anti-Cancer Therapeutics. Cancers (Basel) 2021; 13:2181. [PMID: 34062779 PMCID: PMC8124690 DOI: 10.3390/cancers13092181] [Citation(s) in RCA: 58] [Impact Index Per Article: 19.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/31/2021] [Revised: 04/28/2021] [Accepted: 04/29/2021] [Indexed: 12/23/2022] Open
Abstract
Cyclin Dependent Kinase 9 (CDK9) is one of the most important transcription regulatory members of the CDK family. In conjunction with its main cyclin partner-Cyclin T1, it forms the Positive Transcription Elongation Factor b (P-TEFb) whose primary function in eukaryotic cells is to mediate the positive transcription elongation of nascent mRNA strands, by phosphorylating the S2 residues of the YSPTSPS tandem repeats at the C-terminus domain (CTD) of RNA Polymerase II (RNAP II). To aid in this process, P-TEFb also simultaneously phosphorylates and inactivates a number of negative transcription regulators like 5,6-dichloro-1-β-D-ribofuranosylbenzimidazole (DRB) Sensitivity-Inducing Factor (DSIF) and Negative Elongation Factor (NELF). Significantly enhanced activity of CDK9 is observed in multiple cancer types, which is universally associated with significantly shortened Overall Survival (OS) of the patients. In these cancer types, CDK9 regulates a plethora of cellular functions including proliferation, survival, cell cycle regulation, DNA damage repair and metastasis. Due to the extremely critical role of CDK9 in cancer cells, inhibiting its functions has been the subject of intense research, resulting the development of multiple, increasingly specific small-molecule inhibitors, some of which are presently in clinical trials. The search for newer generation CDK9 inhibitors with higher specificity and lower potential toxicities and suitable combination therapies continues. In fact, the Phase I clinical trials of the latest, highly specific CDK9 inhibitor BAY1251152, against different solid tumors have shown good anti-tumor and on-target activities and pharmacokinetics, combined with manageable safety profile while the phase I and II clinical trials of another inhibitor AT-7519 have been undertaken or are undergoing. To enhance the effectiveness and target diversity and reduce potential drug-resistance, the future of CDK9 inhibition would likely involve combining CDK9 inhibitors with inhibitors like those against BRD4, SEC, MYC, MCL-1 and HSP90.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ranadip Mandal
- Department of Gynecology and Obstetrics, Johann Wolfgang Goethe University, Theodor-Stern-Kai 7, 60590 Frankfurt am Main, Germany; (R.M.); (S.B.)
| | - Sven Becker
- Department of Gynecology and Obstetrics, Johann Wolfgang Goethe University, Theodor-Stern-Kai 7, 60590 Frankfurt am Main, Germany; (R.M.); (S.B.)
| | - Klaus Strebhardt
- Department of Gynecology and Obstetrics, Johann Wolfgang Goethe University, Theodor-Stern-Kai 7, 60590 Frankfurt am Main, Germany; (R.M.); (S.B.)
- German Cancer Consortium (DKTK), 69120 Heidelberg, Germany
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45
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Salnikov L, Baramiya MG. From Autonomy to Integration, From Integration to Dynamically Balanced Integrated Co-existence: Non-aging as the Third Stage of Development. FRONTIERS IN AGING 2021; 2:655315. [PMID: 35822034 PMCID: PMC9261420 DOI: 10.3389/fragi.2021.655315] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/18/2021] [Accepted: 02/02/2021] [Indexed: 01/03/2023]
Abstract
Reversible senescence at the cellular level emerged together with tissue specialization in Metazoans. However, this reversibility (ability to permanently rejuvenate) through recapitulation of early stages of development, was originally a part of ontogenesis, since the pressure of integrativeness was not dominant. The complication of specialization in phylogenesis narrowed this "freedom of maneuver", gradually "truncating" remorphogenesis to local epimorphosis and further up to the complete disappearance of remorphogenesis from the ontogenesis repertoire. This evolutionary trend transformed cellular senescence into organismal aging and any recapitulation of autonomy into carcinogenesis. The crown of specialization, Homo sapiens, completed this post-unicellular stage of development, while in the genome all the potential for the next stage of development, which can be called the stage of balanced coexistence of autonomous and integrative dominants within a single whole. Here, completing the substantiation of the new section of developmental biology, we propose to call it Developmental Biogerontology.
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Affiliation(s)
- Lev Salnikov
- SibEnzyme US LLC, West Roxbury, MA, United States
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46
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Singh R, Bhardwaj VK, Sharma J, Das P, Purohit R. Identification of selective cyclin-dependent kinase 2 inhibitor from the library of pyrrolone-fused benzosuberene compounds: an in silico exploration. J Biomol Struct Dyn 2021; 40:7693-7701. [DOI: 10.1080/07391102.2021.1900918] [Citation(s) in RCA: 26] [Impact Index Per Article: 8.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/02/2023]
Affiliation(s)
- Rahul Singh
- Structural Bioinformatics Lab, CSIR-Institute of Himalayan Bioresource Technology (CSIR-IHBT), Palampur, India
- Biotechnology Division, CSIR-Institute of Himalayan Bioresource Technology (CSIR-IHBT), Palampur, India
| | - Vijay Kumar Bhardwaj
- Structural Bioinformatics Lab, CSIR-Institute of Himalayan Bioresource Technology (CSIR-IHBT), Palampur, India
- Biotechnology Division, CSIR-Institute of Himalayan Bioresource Technology (CSIR-IHBT), Palampur, India
- Academy of Scientific & Innovative Research (AcSIR), Ghaziabad, India
| | - Jatin Sharma
- Structural Bioinformatics Lab, CSIR-Institute of Himalayan Bioresource Technology (CSIR-IHBT), Palampur, India
- Biotechnology Division, CSIR-Institute of Himalayan Bioresource Technology (CSIR-IHBT), Palampur, India
| | - Pralay Das
- Academy of Scientific & Innovative Research (AcSIR), Ghaziabad, India
- Natural Product Chemistry and Process Development, CSIR-Institute of Himalayan Bioresource Technology (CSIR-IHBT), Palampur, India
| | - Rituraj Purohit
- Structural Bioinformatics Lab, CSIR-Institute of Himalayan Bioresource Technology (CSIR-IHBT), Palampur, India
- Biotechnology Division, CSIR-Institute of Himalayan Bioresource Technology (CSIR-IHBT), Palampur, India
- Academy of Scientific & Innovative Research (AcSIR), Ghaziabad, India
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Huang WL, Abudureheman T, Xia J, Chu L, Zhou H, Zheng WW, Zhou N, Shi RY, Li MH, Zhu JM, Qing K, Ji C, Liang KW, Guo S, Yin G, Duan CW. CDK9 Inhibitor Induces the Apoptosis of B-Cell Acute Lymphocytic Leukemia by Inhibiting c-Myc-Mediated Glycolytic Metabolism. Front Cell Dev Biol 2021; 9:641271. [PMID: 33748130 PMCID: PMC7969802 DOI: 10.3389/fcell.2021.641271] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/14/2020] [Accepted: 02/10/2021] [Indexed: 12/18/2022] Open
Abstract
B-cell acute lymphocytic leukemia (B-ALL), a common blood cancer in children, leads to high mortality. Cyclin-dependent kinase 9 inhibitor (CDK9i) effectively attenuates acute myeloid leukemia and chronic lymphoblastic leukemia by inducing apoptosis and inhibiting cell proliferation. However, the effect of CDK9i on B-ALL cells and the underlying mechanisms remain unclear. In this study, we showed that CDK9i induced the apoptosis of B-ALL cells in vitro by activating the apoptotic pathways. In addition, CDK9i restrained the glycolytic metabolism of B-ALL cells, and CDK9i-induced apoptosis was enhanced by co-treatment with glycolysis inhibitors. Furthermore, CDK9i restained the glycolysis of B-ALL cell lines by markedly downregulating the expression of glucose transporter type 1 (GLUT1) and the key rate-limiting enzymes of glycolysis, such as hexokinase 2 (HK2) and lactate dehydrogenase A (LDHA). Moreover, cell apoptosis was rescued in B-ALL cells with over-expressed c-Myc after treatment with CDK9i, which is involved in the enhancement of glycolytic metabolism. In summary, our findings suggest that CDK9 inhibitors induce the apoptosis of B-ALL cells by inhibiting c-Myc-mediated glycolytic metabolism, thus providing a new strategy for the treatment of B-ALL.
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Affiliation(s)
- Wen-Li Huang
- Department of Pathology, School of Basic Medical Science, Central South University, Changsha, China.,Department of Pathology, The Affiliated Hospital of Youjiang Medical University for Nationalities, Baise, China
| | - Tuersunayi Abudureheman
- Key Laboratory of Pediatric Hematology and Oncology, Shanghai Children's Medical Center, Ministry of Health, Pediatric Translational Medicine Institute, Shanghai Jiao Tong University School of Medicine, Shanghai, China
| | - Jing Xia
- Key Laboratory of Pediatric Hematology and Oncology, Shanghai Children's Medical Center, Ministry of Health, Pediatric Translational Medicine Institute, Shanghai Jiao Tong University School of Medicine, Shanghai, China
| | - Lei Chu
- Department of Gynecology and Obstetrics, Shanghai Tongji Hospital, Tongji University School of Medicine, Shanghai, China
| | - Hang Zhou
- Key Laboratory of Pediatric Hematology and Oncology, Shanghai Children's Medical Center, Ministry of Health, Pediatric Translational Medicine Institute, Shanghai Jiao Tong University School of Medicine, Shanghai, China.,Shanghai Collaborative Innovation Center for Translational Medicine, Department of Pharmacology and Chemical Biology, Shanghai Jiao Tong University School of Medicine, Shanghai, China
| | - Wei-Wei Zheng
- Key Laboratory of Pediatric Hematology and Oncology, Shanghai Children's Medical Center, Ministry of Health, Pediatric Translational Medicine Institute, Shanghai Jiao Tong University School of Medicine, Shanghai, China
| | - Neng Zhou
- Key Laboratory of Pediatric Hematology and Oncology, Shanghai Children's Medical Center, Ministry of Health, Pediatric Translational Medicine Institute, Shanghai Jiao Tong University School of Medicine, Shanghai, China
| | - Rong-Yi Shi
- Key Laboratory of Pediatric Hematology and Oncology, Shanghai Children's Medical Center, Ministry of Health, Pediatric Translational Medicine Institute, Shanghai Jiao Tong University School of Medicine, Shanghai, China
| | - Ming-Hao Li
- Key Laboratory of Pediatric Hematology and Oncology, Shanghai Children's Medical Center, Ministry of Health, Pediatric Translational Medicine Institute, Shanghai Jiao Tong University School of Medicine, Shanghai, China
| | - Jian-Min Zhu
- Key Laboratory of Pediatric Hematology and Oncology, Shanghai Children's Medical Center, Ministry of Health, Pediatric Translational Medicine Institute, Shanghai Jiao Tong University School of Medicine, Shanghai, China
| | - Kai Qing
- State Key Laboratory of Medical Genomics, National Research Center for Translational Medicine at Shanghai, Shanghai Institute of Hematology, Ruijin Hospital Affiliated to Shanghai Jiao Tong University School of Medicine, Shanghai, China
| | - Chao Ji
- Department of Pathophysiology, School of Basic Medical Sciences, Wuhan University, Wuhan, China
| | - Kai-Wei Liang
- Department of Pathophysiology, School of Basic Medical Sciences, Wuhan University, Wuhan, China
| | - Sa Guo
- Department of Gynecology and Obstetrics, Shanghai Tongji Hospital, Tongji University School of Medicine, Shanghai, China
| | - Gang Yin
- Department of Pathology, School of Basic Medical Science, Central South University, Changsha, China
| | - Cai-Wen Duan
- Department of Pathology, The Affiliated Hospital of Youjiang Medical University for Nationalities, Baise, China.,Key Laboratory of Pediatric Hematology and Oncology, Shanghai Children's Medical Center, Ministry of Health, Pediatric Translational Medicine Institute, Shanghai Jiao Tong University School of Medicine, Shanghai, China.,Shanghai Collaborative Innovation Center for Translational Medicine, Department of Pharmacology and Chemical Biology, Shanghai Jiao Tong University School of Medicine, Shanghai, China
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48
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Biallelic CDK9 variants as a cause of a new multiple-malformation syndrome with retinal dystrophy mimicking the CHARGE syndrome. J Hum Genet 2021; 66:1021-1027. [PMID: 33640901 PMCID: PMC8472910 DOI: 10.1038/s10038-021-00909-x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/08/2020] [Revised: 01/27/2021] [Accepted: 01/30/2021] [Indexed: 11/26/2022]
Abstract
CDK9 has been considered a candidate gene involved in the CHARGE-like syndrome in a pair of cousins. We report an 8-year-old boy with a strikingly similar phenotype including facial asymmetry, microtia with preauricular tags and bilateral hearing loss, cleft lip and palate, cardiac dysrhythmia, and undescended testes. Joint contracture, no finger flexion creases, and large halluces were the same as those of a previously reported patient with homozygous CDK9 variants. The ocular phenotype included blepharophimosis, lacrimal duct obstruction, eyelid dermoids, Duane syndrome-like abduction deficit, and congenital cataracts. Optical coherence tomography and electroretinography evaluations revealed severe retinal dystrophy had developed at an early age. Trio-based whole-exome sequencing identified compound heterozygous variants in CDK9 [p.(A288T) of maternal origin and p.(R303C) of paternal origin] in the patient. Variants’ kinase activities were reduced compared with wild type. We concluded that CDK9 biallelic variants cause a CHARGE-like malformation syndrome with retinal dystrophy as a distinguishing feature.
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Qiu X, Li Y, Yu B, Ren J, Huang H, Wang M, Ding H, Li Z, Wang J, Bian J. Discovery of selective CDK9 degraders with enhancing antiproliferative activity through PROTAC conversion. Eur J Med Chem 2021; 211:113091. [PMID: 33338869 DOI: 10.1016/j.ejmech.2020.113091] [Citation(s) in RCA: 48] [Impact Index Per Article: 16.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/25/2020] [Revised: 11/05/2020] [Accepted: 12/05/2020] [Indexed: 10/22/2022]
Abstract
Cyclin-dependent kinase 9 (CDK9) is an increasingly important potential cancer treatment target. Nowadays, developing selective CDK9 inhibitors has been extremely challenging as its ATP-binding sites are similar with other CDKs. Here, we report that the CDK9 inhibitor BAY-1143572 is converted into a series of proteolysis targeting chimeras (PROTACs) which leads to several compounds inducing the degradation of CDK9 in acute myeloid leukemia cells at a low nanomolar concentration. In addition, the most potent PROTAC molecule B03 could inhibit cell growth more effectively than warhead alone, with little inhibition of other kinases. This enhanced antiproliferative activity is mediated by a slight increase in kinase inhibitory activity and an increase in the level of apoptosis induction. Moreover, B03 could induce the degradation of CDK9 in vivo. Our work provides evidence that B03 represents a lead for further development and that CDK9 degradation is a potential valuable therapeutic strategy in acute myeloid leukemia.
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Affiliation(s)
- Xiaqiu Qiu
- State Key Laboratory of Natural Medicines and Jiang Su Key Laboratory of Drug Design and Optimization, Department of Medicinal Chemistry, School of Pharmacy, China Pharmaceutical University, Nanjing, 210009, China
| | - Yuanqing Li
- State Key Laboratory of Drug Research, CAS Key Laboratory of Receptor Research, Shanghai Institute of Materia Medica, Chinese Academy of Sciences, 555 Zuchongzhi Road, Shanghai, 201203, China
| | - Bin Yu
- State Key Laboratory of Natural Medicines and Jiang Su Key Laboratory of Drug Design and Optimization, Department of Medicinal Chemistry, School of Pharmacy, China Pharmaceutical University, Nanjing, 210009, China
| | - Jie Ren
- State Key Laboratory of Natural Medicines and Jiang Su Key Laboratory of Drug Design and Optimization, Department of Medicinal Chemistry, School of Pharmacy, China Pharmaceutical University, Nanjing, 210009, China
| | - Huidan Huang
- School of Pharmacy, Wannan Medical College, Wuhu, 241002, PR China.
| | - Min Wang
- State Key Laboratory of Natural Medicines and Jiang Su Key Laboratory of Drug Design and Optimization, Department of Medicinal Chemistry, School of Pharmacy, China Pharmaceutical University, Nanjing, 210009, China
| | - Hong Ding
- State Key Laboratory of Drug Research, CAS Key Laboratory of Receptor Research, Shanghai Institute of Materia Medica, Chinese Academy of Sciences, 555 Zuchongzhi Road, Shanghai, 201203, China
| | - Zhiyu Li
- State Key Laboratory of Natural Medicines and Jiang Su Key Laboratory of Drug Design and Optimization, Department of Medicinal Chemistry, School of Pharmacy, China Pharmaceutical University, Nanjing, 210009, China
| | - Jubo Wang
- State Key Laboratory of Natural Medicines and Jiang Su Key Laboratory of Drug Design and Optimization, Department of Medicinal Chemistry, School of Pharmacy, China Pharmaceutical University, Nanjing, 210009, China
| | - Jinlei Bian
- State Key Laboratory of Natural Medicines and Jiang Su Key Laboratory of Drug Design and Optimization, Department of Medicinal Chemistry, School of Pharmacy, China Pharmaceutical University, Nanjing, 210009, China.
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Synthesis and biological evaluation of seliciclib derivatives as potent and selective CDK9 inhibitors for prostate cancer therapy. MONATSHEFTE FUR CHEMIE 2021. [DOI: 10.1007/s00706-020-02727-x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/22/2022]
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