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Baker JHE, Kyle AH, Liu NA, Wang T, Liu X, Teymori S, Banáth JP, Minchinton AI. Radiation and Chemo-Sensitizing Effects of DNA-PK Inhibitors Are Proportional in Tumors and Normal Tissues. Mol Cancer Ther 2024; 23:1230-1240. [PMID: 38781104 DOI: 10.1158/1535-7163.mct-23-0681] [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: 10/04/2023] [Revised: 02/13/2024] [Accepted: 05/08/2024] [Indexed: 05/25/2024]
Abstract
Inhibitors of DNA-dependent protein kinase (PRKDC; DNA-PK) sensitize cancers to radiotherapy and DNA-damaging chemotherapies, with candidates in clinical trials. However, the degree to which DNA-PK inhibitors also sensitize normal tissues remains poorly characterized. In this study, we compare tumor growth control and normal tissue sensitization following DNA-PK inhibitors in combination with radiation and etoposide. FaDu tumor xenografts implanted in mice were treated with 10 to 15 Gy irradiation ± 3 to 100 mg/kg AZD7648. A dose-dependent increase in time to tumor volume doubling following AZD7648 was proportional to an increase in toxicity scores of the overlying skin. Similar effects were seen in the intestinal jejunum, tongue, and FaDu tumor xenografts of mice assessed for proliferation rates at 3.5 days after treatment with etoposide or 5 Gy whole body irradiation ± DNA-PK inhibitors AZD7648 or peposertib (M3814). Additional organs were examined for sensitivity to DNA-PK inhibitor activity in ATM-deficient mice, where DNA-PK activity is indicated by surrogate marker γH2AX. Inhibition was observed in the heart, brain, pancreas, thymus, tongue, and salivary glands of ATM-deficient mice treated with the DNA-PK inhibitors relative to radiation alone. Similar reductions are also seen in ATM-deficient FaDu tumor xenografts where both pDNA-PK and γH2AX staining could be performed. DNA-PK inhibitor-mediated sensitization to radiation and DNA-damaging chemotherapy are not only limited to tumor tissues, but also extends to normal tissues sustaining DNA damage. These data are useful for interpretation of the sensitizing effects of DNA damage repair inhibitors, where a therapeutic index showing greater cell-killing effects on cancer cells is crucial for optimal clinical translation.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jennifer H E Baker
- Department of Integrative Oncology, Radiation Biology Unit, BC Cancer Research Institute, Vancouver, Canada
| | - Alastair H Kyle
- Department of Integrative Oncology, Radiation Biology Unit, BC Cancer Research Institute, Vancouver, Canada
| | - Nannan A Liu
- Department of Integrative Oncology, Radiation Biology Unit, BC Cancer Research Institute, Vancouver, Canada
| | - Taixiang Wang
- Department of Integrative Oncology, Radiation Biology Unit, BC Cancer Research Institute, Vancouver, Canada
| | - Xinhe Liu
- Department of Integrative Oncology, Radiation Biology Unit, BC Cancer Research Institute, Vancouver, Canada
| | - Sevin Teymori
- Department of Integrative Oncology, Radiation Biology Unit, BC Cancer Research Institute, Vancouver, Canada
| | - Judit P Banáth
- Department of Integrative Oncology, Radiation Biology Unit, BC Cancer Research Institute, Vancouver, Canada
| | - Andrew I Minchinton
- Department of Integrative Oncology, Radiation Biology Unit, BC Cancer Research Institute, Vancouver, Canada
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2
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Hong CR, Liew LP, Wong WW, Dickson BD, Cheng G, Shome A, Airey R, Jaiswal J, Lipert B, Jamieson SMF, Wilson WR, Hay MP. Identification of 6-Anilino Imidazo[4,5- c]pyridin-2-ones as Selective DNA-Dependent Protein Kinase Inhibitors and Their Application as Radiosensitizers. J Med Chem 2024; 67:12366-12385. [PMID: 39007759 DOI: 10.1021/acs.jmedchem.4c01120] [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: 07/16/2024]
Abstract
The dominant role of non-homologous end-joining in the repair of radiation-induced double-strand breaks identifies DNA-dependent protein kinase (DNA-PK) as an excellent target for the development of radiosensitizers. We report the discovery of a new class of imidazo[4,5-c]pyridine-2-one DNA-PK inhibitors. Structure-activity studies culminated in the identification of 78 as a nM DNA-PK inhibitor with excellent selectivity for DNA-PK compared to related phosphoinositide 3-kinase (PI3K) and PI3K-like kinase (PIKK) families and the broader kinome, and displayed DNA-PK-dependent radiosensitization of HAP1 cells. Compound 78 demonstrated robust radiosensitization of a broad range of cancer cells in vitro, displayed high oral bioavailability, and sensitized colorectal carcinoma (HCT116/54C) and head and neck squamous cell carcinoma (UT-SCC-74B) tumor xenografts to radiation. Compound 78 also provided substantial tumor growth inhibition of HCT116/54C tumor xenografts in combination with radiation. Compound 78 represents a new, potent, and selective class of DNA-PK inhibitors with significant potential as radiosensitizers for cancer treatment.
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Affiliation(s)
- Cho R Hong
- Auckland Cancer Society Research Centre, University of Auckland, Private Bag 92019, Auckland 1142, New Zealand
| | - Lydia P Liew
- Auckland Cancer Society Research Centre, University of Auckland, Private Bag 92019, Auckland 1142, New Zealand
| | - Way W Wong
- Auckland Cancer Society Research Centre, University of Auckland, Private Bag 92019, Auckland 1142, New Zealand
| | - Benjamin D Dickson
- Chemistry and Applied Physics, School of Science, University of Waikato, Private Bag 3105, Hamilton 3240, New Zealand
| | - Gary Cheng
- Auckland Cancer Society Research Centre, University of Auckland, Private Bag 92019, Auckland 1142, New Zealand
| | - Avik Shome
- Auckland Cancer Society Research Centre, University of Auckland, Private Bag 92019, Auckland 1142, New Zealand
| | - Rebecca Airey
- Auckland Cancer Society Research Centre, University of Auckland, Private Bag 92019, Auckland 1142, New Zealand
| | - Jagdish Jaiswal
- Auckland Cancer Society Research Centre, University of Auckland, Private Bag 92019, Auckland 1142, New Zealand
| | - Barbara Lipert
- Auckland Cancer Society Research Centre, University of Auckland, Private Bag 92019, Auckland 1142, New Zealand
| | - Stephen M F Jamieson
- Auckland Cancer Society Research Centre, University of Auckland, Private Bag 92019, Auckland 1142, New Zealand
| | - William R Wilson
- Auckland Cancer Society Research Centre, University of Auckland, Private Bag 92019, Auckland 1142, New Zealand
| | - Michael P Hay
- Auckland Cancer Society Research Centre, University of Auckland, Private Bag 92019, Auckland 1142, New Zealand
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3
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Samuels M, Falkenius J, Bar-Ad V, Dunst J, van Triest B, Yachnin J, Rodriguez-Gutierrez A, Kuipers M, You X, Sarholz B, Locatelli G, Becker A, Troost EGC. A Phase 1 Study of the DNA-PK Inhibitor Peposertib in Combination With Radiation Therapy With or Without Cisplatin in Patients With Advanced Head and Neck Tumors. Int J Radiat Oncol Biol Phys 2024; 118:743-756. [PMID: 37751793 DOI: 10.1016/j.ijrobp.2023.09.024] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/17/2023] [Revised: 09/05/2023] [Accepted: 09/14/2023] [Indexed: 09/28/2023]
Abstract
PURPOSE DNA-dependent protein kinase (DNA-PK) plays a key role in the repair of DNA double strand breaks via nonhomologous end joining. Inhibition of DNA-PK can enhance the effect of DNA double strand break inducing anticancer therapies. Peposertib (formerly "M3814") is an orally administered, potent, and selective small molecule DNA-PK inhibitor that has demonstrated radiosensitizing and antitumor activity in xenograft models and was well-tolerated in monotherapy. This phase 1 trial (National Clinical Trial 02516813) investigated the maximum tolerated dose, recommended phase 2 dose (RP2D), safety, and tolerability of peposertib in combination with palliative radiation therapy (RT) in patients with thoracic or head and neck tumors (arm A) and of peposertib in combination with cisplatin and curative-intent RT in patients with squamous cell carcinoma of the head and neck (arm B). METHODS AND MATERIALS Patients received peposertib once daily in ascending dose cohorts as a tablet or capsule in combination with palliative RT (arm A) or in combination with intensity modulated curative-intent RT and cisplatin (arm B). RESULTS The most frequently observed treatment-emergent adverse events were radiation skin injury, fatigue, and nausea in arm A (n = 34) and stomatitis, nausea, radiation skin injury, and dysgeusia in arm B (n = 11). Based on evaluations of dose-limiting toxicities, tolerability, and pharmacokinetic data, RP2D for arm A was declared as 200 mg peposertib tablet once daily in combination with RT. In arm B (n = 11), 50 mg peposertib was declared tolerable in combination with curative-intent RT and cisplatin. However, enrollment was discontinued because of insufficient exposure at that dose, and the RP2D was not formally declared. CONCLUSIONS Peposertib in combination with palliative RT was well-tolerated up to doses of 200 mg once daily as tablet with each RT fraction. When combined with RT and cisplatin, a tolerable peposertib dose yielded insufficient exposure.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Johan Falkenius
- Theme Cancer, Karolinska University Hospital, Stockholm, Sweden
| | - Voichita Bar-Ad
- Department of Radiation Oncology, Thomas Jefferson University, Philadelphia, Pennsylvania
| | - Juergen Dunst
- Department of Radiotherapy, University Hospital Schleswig-Holstein, Lübeck, Germany
| | - Baukelien van Triest
- Department of Radiation Oncology, Netherlands Cancer Institute, Amsterdam, Netherlands
| | - Jeffrey Yachnin
- Theme Cancer, Karolinska University Hospital, Stockholm, Sweden
| | | | - Mirjam Kuipers
- The health care business of Merck KGaA, Darmstadt, Germany
| | | | | | | | - Andreas Becker
- The health care business of Merck KGaA, Darmstadt, Germany
| | - Esther G C Troost
- Department of Radiotherapy and Radiation Oncology, Faculty of Medicine and University Hospital Carl Gustav Carus, Technische Universität Dresden, Dresden, Germany; OncoRay - National Center for Radiation Research in Oncology, Faculty of Medicine and University Hospital Carl Gustav Carus, Technische Universität Dresden, Helmholtz-Zentrum Dresden-Rossendorf, Dresden, Germany; Institute of Radiooncology - OncoRay, Helmholtz-Zentrum Dresden-Rossendorf, Dresden, Germany; National Center for Tumor Diseases, Partner Site Dresden, Germany; German Cancer Research Center, Heidelberg, Germany; Faculty of Medicine and University Hospital Carl Gustav Carus, Technische Universität Dresden, Helmholtz-Zentrum Dresden-Rossendorf, Dresden, Germany.
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4
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Almatary AM, El Husseiny WM, Selim KB, Eisa HMH. Nitroimidazole derivatives potentiated against tumor hypoxia: Design, synthesis, antitumor activity, molecular docking study, and QSAR study. Drug Dev Res 2024; 85:e22126. [PMID: 37915124 DOI: 10.1002/ddr.22126] [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: 06/16/2023] [Revised: 10/01/2023] [Accepted: 10/15/2023] [Indexed: 11/03/2023]
Abstract
A hypoxic environment occurs predominantly in tumors. During the growth phase of a tumor, it grows until it exceeds its blood supply, leaving regions of the tumor in which the oxygen pressure is dramatically low. They are virtually absent in normal tissues, thus creating perfect conditions for selective bioreductive therapy of tumors. To this aim, a novel series of cytotoxic radiosensitizer agents were synthesized by linking the nitroimidazole scaffold with oxadiazole or triazole rings. The majority of the compounds exhibited moderate to excellent antiproliferative activities toward HCT116 cell line under normoxic and hypoxic conditions. The structure-activity relationship study revealed that compounds containing the free thiol group either in the oxadiazoles 11a,b or the triazoles 21a,b-23a,b demonstrated the strongest antiproliferative activity, which proves that the free thiol group plays a crucial role in the antiproliferative activity of our compounds under both normoxic (half-maximal inhibitory concentration [IC50 ] = 12.50-24.39 µM) and hypoxic conditions (IC50 = 4.69-11.56 µM). Radiosensitizing assay of the four most active cytotoxic compounds 11b and 21-23b assured the capability of the compounds to enhance the sensitivity of the tumor cells to the DNA damaging activity of γ-radiation (IC50 = 2.23-5.18 µM). To further investigate if the cytotoxicity of our most active compounds was due to a specific signaling pathway, the online software SwissTargetPrediction was exploited and a molecular docking study was done that proposed cyclin-dependent kinase 2 (CDK2) enzyme to be the most promising target. The CDK2 inhibitory assay assured this assumption as five out of six compounds demonstrated a comparable inhibitory activity with roscovitine, among which compound 21b showed threefold more potent inhibitory activity in comparison with the reference compound. A further biological evaluation proved compound 21b to have an apoptotic activity and cell cycle arrest activity at the G1 and S phases. During the AutoQSAR analysis, the model demonstrated excellent regression between the predicted and experimental activity with r2 = 0.86. Subsequently, we used the model to predict the activity of the test set compounds that came with r2 = 0.95.
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Affiliation(s)
- Aya M Almatary
- Department of Pharmaceutical Organic Chemistry, Faculty of Pharmacy, Mansoura University, Mansoura, Egypt
- Department of Pharmaceutical Chemistry, Faculty of Pharmacy, Horus University-Egypt, New Damietta, Egypt
| | - Walaa M El Husseiny
- Department of Pharmaceutical Organic Chemistry, Faculty of Pharmacy, Mansoura University, Mansoura, Egypt
| | - Khalid B Selim
- Department of Pharmaceutical Organic Chemistry, Faculty of Pharmacy, Mansoura University, Mansoura, Egypt
| | - Hassan M H Eisa
- Department of Pharmaceutical Organic Chemistry, Faculty of Pharmacy, Mansoura University, Mansoura, Egypt
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5
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Becker A, Krebs‐Brown A, Vetter C, Reuter T, Rodriguez‐Gutierrez A, You X, Lissy M. Phase I crossover study of DNA-protein kinase inhibitor peposertib in healthy volunteers: Effect of food and pharmacokinetics of an oral suspension. Clin Transl Sci 2023; 16:2628-2639. [PMID: 37905356 PMCID: PMC10719468 DOI: 10.1111/cts.13657] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/31/2023] [Revised: 08/30/2023] [Accepted: 08/31/2023] [Indexed: 11/02/2023] Open
Abstract
Peposertib is an orally administered inhibitor of DNA-dependent protein kinase. We evaluated the effect of food on its pharmacokinetics, and examined the pharmacokinetics of an oral suspension (OS) of disintegrated tablets, in a phase I, open-label, crossover three-period study (NCT04702698). Twelve healthy volunteers were randomized to one of six treatment sequences. They received a single dose of peposertib 100 mg as film-coated tablets under fasted or fed conditions ("tablet fasted" or "tablet fed") or as an OS under fasted conditions ("OS fasted"), with washout between treatments. Using healthy volunteers was possible because, despite its mechanism of action being suppression of DNA repair, peposertib has shown no genotoxic effect in animals. A mild food effect was observed with peposertib tablets. Fed-to-fasted ratios were: area under the curve from time 0 to time t (AUC0-t ), 123.81% (90% confidence interval [CI]: 108.04, 141.87%); AUC from zero to infinity (AUC0-∞ ), 110.28% (90% CI 100.71, 120.77%); and maximum concentration (Cmax ) 104.47% (90% CI: 79.15, 137.90%). Cmax was delayed under fed conditions (median time to maximum concentration [Tmax ] was 3.5 h [tablet fed] vs. 1 h [tablet fasted]). OS-to-tablet (fasted) ratios were: AUC0-t , 124.83% (90% CI: 111.50%, 139.76%); AUC0-∞ , 119.05% (90% CI: 104.47, 135.67%); and Cmax 173.29% (90% CI: 135.78, 221.16%). Median Tmax was 0.5 h (OS fasted) versus 1 h (tablet). All treatments were well-tolerated in healthy volunteers. Peposertib tablets can be taken with or without food; if combined with chemotherapy or radiotherapy, the delay in Cmax must be considered to optimize the chemo- or radiosensitizing effect. The peposertib OS form represents an alternative route of administration in patients with specific cancers causing dysphagia. However, the OS form should be part of future dose optimization strategies in relevant settings.
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Affiliation(s)
| | | | | | - Tanja Reuter
- The healthcare business of Merck KGaADarmstadtGermany
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6
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Wong WW, O'Brien-Gortner SF, Anderson RF, Wilson WR, Hay MP, Dickson BD. Hypoxia-activated prodrugs of phenolic olaparib analogues for tumour-selective chemosensitisation. RSC Med Chem 2023; 14:1309-1330. [PMID: 37484567 PMCID: PMC10357951 DOI: 10.1039/d3md00117b] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/13/2023] [Accepted: 04/28/2023] [Indexed: 07/25/2023] Open
Abstract
Poly(ADP-ribose)polymerase inhibitors (PARPi) are used for treatment of tumours with a defect in homologous recombination (HR) repair. Combination with radio- or chemotherapy could broaden their applicability but a major hurdle is enhancement of normal tissue toxicity. Development of hypoxia-activated prodrugs (HAPs) of PARPi has potential to restrict PARP inhibition to tumours thereby avoiding off-target toxicity. We have designed and synthesised phenolic derivatives of olaparib (termed phenolaparibs) and corresponding ether-linked HAPs. Phenolaparib cytotoxicity in HR-proficient and deficient cell lines was consistent with inhibition of PARP-1. Prodrugs were deactivated relative to phenolaparibs in biochemical PARP-1 inhibition assays, and cell culture. Prodrug 7 was selectively converted to phenolaparib 4 under hypoxia and demonstrated hypoxia-selective cytotoxicity, including chemosensitisation of HR-proficient cells in combination with temozolomide. This work demonstrates the feasibility of a HAP approach to PARPi for use in combination therapies.
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Affiliation(s)
- Way W Wong
- Auckland Cancer Society Research Centre, School of Medical Sciences, Faculty of Medical and Health Sciences, University of Auckland Private Bag 92019 Auckland 1010 New Zealand
| | - Sophia F O'Brien-Gortner
- Auckland Cancer Society Research Centre, School of Medical Sciences, Faculty of Medical and Health Sciences, University of Auckland Private Bag 92019 Auckland 1010 New Zealand
| | - Robert F Anderson
- Auckland Cancer Society Research Centre, School of Medical Sciences, Faculty of Medical and Health Sciences, University of Auckland Private Bag 92019 Auckland 1010 New Zealand
- Maurice Wilkins Centre for Molecular Biodiscovery, University of Auckland Symonds St Auckland 1010 New Zealand
- School of Chemical Sciences, The University of Auckland Private Bag 92019 Auckland 1142 New Zealand
| | - William R Wilson
- Auckland Cancer Society Research Centre, School of Medical Sciences, Faculty of Medical and Health Sciences, University of Auckland Private Bag 92019 Auckland 1010 New Zealand
- Maurice Wilkins Centre for Molecular Biodiscovery, University of Auckland Symonds St Auckland 1010 New Zealand
| | - Michael P Hay
- Auckland Cancer Society Research Centre, School of Medical Sciences, Faculty of Medical and Health Sciences, University of Auckland Private Bag 92019 Auckland 1010 New Zealand
- Maurice Wilkins Centre for Molecular Biodiscovery, University of Auckland Symonds St Auckland 1010 New Zealand
| | - Benjamin D Dickson
- Auckland Cancer Society Research Centre, School of Medical Sciences, Faculty of Medical and Health Sciences, University of Auckland Private Bag 92019 Auckland 1010 New Zealand
- Maurice Wilkins Centre for Molecular Biodiscovery, University of Auckland Symonds St Auckland 1010 New Zealand
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7
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Lee YR, Kang GS, Oh T, Jo HJ, Park HJ, Ahn GO. DNA-Dependent Protein Kinase Catalytic Subunit (DNA-PKcs): Beyond the DNA Double-Strand Break Repair. Mol Cells 2023; 46:200-205. [PMID: 36756777 PMCID: PMC10086554 DOI: 10.14348/molcells.2023.2164] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/31/2022] [Revised: 11/09/2022] [Accepted: 11/09/2022] [Indexed: 02/10/2023] Open
Abstract
DNA-dependent protein kinase catalytic subunit (DNA-PKcs), a member of the phosphatidylinositol 3-kinase related kinase family is a well-known player in repairing DNA double strand break through non-homologous end joining pathway. This mechanism has allowed us to understand its critical role in T and B cell development through V(D)J recombination and class switch recombination, respectively. We have also learned that the defects in these mechanisms lead to severely combined immunodeficiency (SCID). Here we highlight some of the latest evidence where DNA-PKcs has been shown to localize not only in the nucleus but also in the cytoplasm, phosphorylating various proteins involved in cellular metabolism and cytokine production. While it is an exciting time to unveil novel functions of DNA-PKcs, one should carefully choose experimental models to study DNA-PKcs as the experimental evidence has been shown to differ between cells of defective DNA-PKcs and those of DNA-PKcs knockout. Moreover, while there are several DNA-PK inhibitors currently being evaluated in the clinical trials in attempt to increase the efficacy of radiotherapy or chemotherapy, multiple functions and subcellular localization of DNA-PKcs in various types of cells may further complicate the effects at the cellular and organismal level.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ye-Rim Lee
- College of Veterinary Medicine, Seoul National University, Seoul 08826, Korea
| | - Gi-Sue Kang
- College of Veterinary Medicine, Seoul National University, Seoul 08826, Korea
| | - Taerim Oh
- College of Veterinary Medicine, Seoul National University, Seoul 08826, Korea
| | - Hye-Ju Jo
- College of Veterinary Medicine, Seoul National University, Seoul 08826, Korea
| | - Hye-Joon Park
- College of Veterinary Medicine, Seoul National University, Seoul 08826, Korea
| | - G-One Ahn
- College of Veterinary Medicine, Seoul National University, Seoul 08826, Korea
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8
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Chan Wah Hak CML, Rullan A, Patin EC, Pedersen M, Melcher AA, Harrington KJ. Enhancing anti-tumour innate immunity by targeting the DNA damage response and pattern recognition receptors in combination with radiotherapy. Front Oncol 2022; 12:971959. [PMID: 36106115 PMCID: PMC9465159 DOI: 10.3389/fonc.2022.971959] [Citation(s) in RCA: 15] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/17/2022] [Accepted: 08/01/2022] [Indexed: 11/13/2022] Open
Abstract
Radiotherapy is one of the most effective and frequently used treatments for a wide range of cancers. In addition to its direct anti-cancer cytotoxic effects, ionising radiation can augment the anti-tumour immune response by triggering pro-inflammatory signals, DNA damage-induced immunogenic cell death and innate immune activation. Anti-tumour innate immunity can result from recruitment and stimulation of dendritic cells (DCs) which leads to tumour-specific adaptive T-cell priming and immunostimulatory cell infiltration. Conversely, radiotherapy can also induce immunosuppressive and anti-inflammatory mediators that can confer radioresistance. Targeting the DNA damage response (DDR) concomitantly with radiotherapy is an attractive strategy for overcoming radioresistance, both by enhancing the radiosensitivity of tumour relative to normal tissues, and tipping the scales in favour of an immunostimulatory tumour microenvironment. This two-pronged approach exploits genomic instability to circumvent immune evasion, targeting both hallmarks of cancer. In this review, we describe targetable DDR proteins (PARP (poly[ADP-ribose] polymerase); ATM/ATR (ataxia-telangiectasia mutated and Rad3-related), DNA-PKcs (DNA-dependent protein kinase, catalytic subunit) and Wee1 (Wee1-like protein kinase) and their potential intersections with druggable immunomodulatory signalling pathways, including nucleic acid-sensing mechanisms (Toll-like receptors (TLR); cyclic GMP-AMP synthase (cGAS)-stimulator of interferon genes (STING) and retinoic acid-inducible gene-I (RIG-I)-like receptors), and how these might be exploited to enhance radiation therapy. We summarise current preclinical advances, recent and ongoing clinical trials and the challenges of therapeutic combinations with existing treatments such as immune checkpoint inhibitors.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Antonio Rullan
- Targeted Therapy Team, The Institute of Cancer Research, London, United Kingdom
| | - Emmanuel C. Patin
- Targeted Therapy Team, The Institute of Cancer Research, London, United Kingdom
| | - Malin Pedersen
- Targeted Therapy Team, The Institute of Cancer Research, London, United Kingdom
| | - Alan A. Melcher
- Translational Immunotherapy Team, The Institute of Cancer Research, London, United Kingdom
| | - Kevin J. Harrington
- Targeted Therapy Team, The Institute of Cancer Research, London, United Kingdom
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9
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Hill RM, Rocha S, Parsons JL. Overcoming the Impact of Hypoxia in Driving Radiotherapy Resistance in Head and Neck Squamous Cell Carcinoma. Cancers (Basel) 2022; 14:4130. [PMID: 36077667 PMCID: PMC9454974 DOI: 10.3390/cancers14174130] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/21/2022] [Revised: 08/23/2022] [Accepted: 08/25/2022] [Indexed: 12/24/2022] Open
Abstract
Hypoxia is very common in most solid tumours and is a driving force for malignant progression as well as radiotherapy and chemotherapy resistance. Incidences of head and neck squamous cell carcinoma (HNSCC) have increased in the last decade and radiotherapy is a major therapeutic technique utilised in the treatment of the tumours. However, effectiveness of radiotherapy is hindered by resistance mechanisms and most notably by hypoxia, leading to poor patient prognosis of HNSCC patients. The phenomenon of hypoxia-induced radioresistance was identified nearly half a century ago, yet despite this, little progress has been made in overcoming the physical lack of oxygen. Therefore, a more detailed understanding of the molecular mechanisms of hypoxia and the underpinning radiobiological response of tumours to this phenotype is much needed. In this review, we will provide an up-to-date overview of how hypoxia alters molecular and cellular processes contributing to radioresistance, particularly in the context of HNSCC, and what strategies have and could be explored to overcome hypoxia-induced radioresistance.
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Affiliation(s)
- Rhianna M. Hill
- Department of Molecular and Clinical Cancer Medicine, University of Liverpool, Liverpool L7 8TX, UK
| | - Sonia Rocha
- Department of Molecular Physiology and Cell Signalling, University of Liverpool, Liverpool L69 7ZB, UK
| | - Jason L. Parsons
- Department of Molecular and Clinical Cancer Medicine, University of Liverpool, Liverpool L7 8TX, UK
- Clatterbridge Cancer Centre NHS Foundation Trust, Clatterbridge Road, Bebington CH63 4JY, UK
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10
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Dong Y, Cui C. The role of short-chain fatty acids in central nervous system diseases. Mol Cell Biochem 2022; 477:2595-2607. [PMID: 35596843 DOI: 10.1007/s11010-022-04471-8] [Citation(s) in RCA: 18] [Impact Index Per Article: 9.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/13/2021] [Accepted: 05/04/2022] [Indexed: 12/12/2022]
Abstract
Previous studies have found that intracorporal short-chain fatty acids (SCFAs), as the main metabolites of the gut microbiota, play important roles in the intestinal physiology and immune function. Along with the in-depth study of the brain-gut axis, the attention to the roles of SCFAs in central nervous system (CNS) has been raised. It has been found that SCFAs function in CNS diseases by regulating inflammatory response, neuronal apoptosis, oxidative stress, the integrity of the blood-brain barrier (BBB) and so on. Here, the changes, the effects and the mechanisms of different SCFA as individual or mixture in different CNS diseases were summarized. It is expected to lead to increased interest in SCFAs studies as an important regulator in CNS diseases and provide feasible suggestions based on SCFAs for the therapy of CNS diseases in the future.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yin Dong
- Wuxi Medical School, Jiangnan University, Wuxi, 214122, Jiangsu, China
| | - Chun Cui
- Wuxi Medical School, Jiangnan University, Wuxi, 214122, Jiangsu, China.
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11
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Matsumoto Y. Development and Evolution of DNA-Dependent Protein Kinase Inhibitors toward Cancer Therapy. Int J Mol Sci 2022; 23:ijms23084264. [PMID: 35457081 PMCID: PMC9032228 DOI: 10.3390/ijms23084264] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/01/2022] [Revised: 04/07/2022] [Accepted: 04/09/2022] [Indexed: 12/04/2022] Open
Abstract
DNA double-strand break (DSB) is considered the most deleterious type of DNA damage, which is generated by ionizing radiation (IR) and a subset of anticancer drugs. DNA-dependent protein kinase (DNA-PK), which is composed of a DNA-PK catalytic subunit (DNA-PKcs) and Ku80-Ku70 heterodimer, acts as the molecular sensor for DSB and plays a pivotal role in DSB repair through non-homologous end joining (NHEJ). Cells deficient for DNA-PKcs show hypersensitivity to IR and several DNA-damaging agents. Cellular sensitivity to IR and DNA-damaging agents can be augmented by the inhibition of DNA-PK. A number of small molecules that inhibit DNA-PK have been developed. Here, the development and evolution of inhibitors targeting DNA-PK for cancer therapy is reviewed. Significant parts of the inhibitors were developed based on the structural similarity of DNA-PK to phosphatidylinositol 3-kinases (PI3Ks) and PI3K-related kinases (PIKKs), including Ataxia-telangiectasia mutated (ATM). Some of DNA-PK inhibitors, e.g., NU7026 and NU7441, have been used extensively in the studies for cellular function of DNA-PK. Recently developed inhibitors, e.g., M3814 and AZD7648, are in clinical trials and on the way to be utilized in cancer therapy in combination with radiotherapy and chemotherapy.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yoshihisa Matsumoto
- Laboratory for Zero-Carbon Energy, Institute of Innovative Research, Tokyo Institute of Technology, Tokyo 152-8550, Japan
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12
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Nitroaromatic Hypoxia-Activated Prodrugs for Cancer Therapy. Pharmaceuticals (Basel) 2022; 15:ph15020187. [PMID: 35215299 PMCID: PMC8878295 DOI: 10.3390/ph15020187] [Citation(s) in RCA: 13] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/23/2021] [Revised: 01/24/2022] [Accepted: 02/01/2022] [Indexed: 02/04/2023] Open
Abstract
The presence of “hypoxic” tissue (with O2 levels of <0.1 mmHg) in solid tumours, resulting in quiescent tumour cells distant from blood vessels, but capable of being reactivated by reoxygenation following conventional therapy (radiation or drugs), have long been known as a limitation to successful cancer chemotherapy. This has resulted in a sustained effort to develop nitroaromatic “hypoxia-activated prodrugs” designed to undergo enzyme-based nitro group reduction selectively in these hypoxic regions, to generate active drugs. Such nitro-based prodrugs can be classified into two major groups; those activated either by electron redistribution or by fragmentation following nitro group reduction, relying on the extraordinary difference in electron demand between an aromatic nitro group and its reduction products. The vast majority of hypoxia-activated fall into the latter category and are discussed here classed by the nature of their nitroaromatic trigger units.
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13
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Feng W, Smith CM, Simpson DA, Gupta GP. Targeting Non-homologous and Alternative End Joining Repair to Enhance Cancer Radiosensitivity. Semin Radiat Oncol 2021; 32:29-41. [PMID: 34861993 DOI: 10.1016/j.semradonc.2021.09.007] [Citation(s) in RCA: 12] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/29/2022]
Abstract
Many cancer therapies, including radiotherapy, induce DSBs as the major driving mechanism for inducing cancer cell death. Thus, modulating DSB repair has immense potential for radiosensitization, although such interventions must be carefully designed to be tumor selective to ensure that normal tissue toxicities are not also increased. Here, we review mechanisms of error-prone DSB repair through a highly efficient process called end joining. There are two major pathways of end-joining repair: non-homologous end joining (NHEJ) and alternative end joining (a-EJ), both of which can be selectively upregulated in cancer and thus represent attractive therapeutic targets for radiosensitization. These EJ pathways each have therapeutically targetable pioneer factors - DNA-dependent protein kinase catalytic subunit (DNA-PKcs) for NHEJ and DNA Polymerase Theta (Pol θ) for a-EJ. We summarize the current status of therapeutic targeting of NHEJ and a-EJ to enhance the effects of radiotherapy - focusing on challenges that must be overcome and opportunities that require further exploration. By leveraging preclinical insights into mechanisms of altered DSB repair programs in cancer, selective radiosensitization through NHEJ and/or a-EJ targeting remains a highly attractive avenue for ongoing and future clinical investigation.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Chelsea M Smith
- Lineberger Comprehensive Cancer Center; Pathobiology and Translational Science Graduate Program
| | | | - Gaorav P Gupta
- Lineberger Comprehensive Cancer Center; Pathobiology and Translational Science Graduate Program; Department of Radiation Oncology; Department of Biochemistry and Biophysics, University of North Carolina, Chapel Hill, NC.
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14
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Therapeutic targeting of the hypoxic tumour microenvironment. Nat Rev Clin Oncol 2021; 18:751-772. [PMID: 34326502 DOI: 10.1038/s41571-021-00539-4] [Citation(s) in RCA: 179] [Impact Index Per Article: 59.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 06/18/2021] [Indexed: 02/07/2023]
Abstract
Hypoxia is prevalent in human tumours and contributes to microenvironments that shape cancer evolution and adversely affect therapeutic outcomes. Historically, two different tumour microenvironment (TME) research communities have been discernible. One has focused on physicochemical gradients of oxygen, pH and nutrients in the tumour interstitium, motivated in part by the barrier that hypoxia poses to effective radiotherapy. The other has focused on cellular interactions involving tumour and non-tumour cells within the TME. Over the past decade, strong links have been established between these two themes, providing new insights into fundamental aspects of tumour biology and presenting new strategies for addressing the effects of hypoxia and other microenvironmental features that arise from the inefficient microvascular system in solid tumours. This Review provides a perspective on advances at the interface between these two aspects of the TME, with a focus on translational therapeutic opportunities relating to the elimination and/or exploitation of tumour hypoxia.
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15
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Radiosensitisation of SCCVII tumours and normal tissues in mice by the DNA-dependent protein kinase inhibitor AZD7648. Radiother Oncol 2021; 166:162-170. [PMID: 34861268 DOI: 10.1016/j.radonc.2021.11.027] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/27/2021] [Revised: 10/18/2021] [Accepted: 11/22/2021] [Indexed: 11/20/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND AND PURPOSE Inhibitors of DNA-dependent protein kinase (DNA-PK) are effective radiation sensitisers in preclinical tumours, but little is known about risks of normal tissue radiosensitisation. Here, we evaluate radiosensitisation of head and neck squamous cell carcinoma (HNSCC) cells by DNA-PK inhibitor AZD7648 under oxia and anoxia in vitro, and tumour (SCCVII), oral mucosa and small intestine in mice. MATERIALS AND METHODS Radiosensitisation of human (UT-SCC-54C) and murine (SCCVII) HNSCC cells by AZD7648 under oxia and anoxia was evaluated by clonogenic assay. Radiosensitisation of SCCVII tumours in C3H mice by oral AZD7648 (75 mg/kg) was determined by ex vivo clonogenic assay 3.5 days post-irradiation, with evaluation of normal tissue surrogate endpoints using 5-ethynyl-2'-deoxyuridine to facilitate detection of regenerating crypts in the ileum and repopulating S-phase cells in the ileum and oral mucosa of the same animals. RESULTS AZD7648 potently radiosensitised both cell lines, with similar sensitiser enhancement ratios for 10% survival (SER10) under oxia and anoxia. AZD7648 diffused rapidly through multicellular layers, suggesting rapid equilibration between plasma and hypoxic zones in tumours. SCCVII tumours were radiosensitised by AZD7648 (SER10 2.5). AZD7648 also enhanced radiation-induced body weight loss and suppressed regenerating intestinal crypts and repopulating S-phase cells in the ileum and tongue epithelium with SER values similar to SCCVII tumours. CONCLUSION AZD7648 is a potent radiation sensitiser of both oxic and anoxic tumour cells, but also markedly radiosensitises stem cells in the small intestine and oral mucosa.
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16
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Yang L, Lu P, Qu S. Commentary: High Expression of Cancer-IgG Is Associated With Poor Prognosis and Radioresistance via PI3K/AKT/DNA-PKcs Pathway Regulation in Lung Adenocarcinoma. Front Oncol 2021; 11:741089. [PMID: 34692521 PMCID: PMC8529003 DOI: 10.3389/fonc.2021.741089] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/14/2021] [Accepted: 09/20/2021] [Indexed: 11/16/2022] Open
Affiliation(s)
- Liu Yang
- Department of Radiation Oncology, Guangxi Medical University Cancer Hospital, Nanning, China
| | - Pingan Lu
- Amsterdam UMC, Faculty of Medicine, University of Amsterdam, Amsterdam, Netherlands
| | - Song Qu
- Department of Radiation Oncology, Guangxi Medical University Cancer Hospital, Nanning, China.,Key Laboratory of High-Incidence Tumor Prevention & Treatment (Guangxi Medical University), Ministry of Education, Nanning, China
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17
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Fernandes SG, Shah P, Khattar E. Recent Advances in Therapeutic Application of DNA Damage Response Inhibitors against Cancer. Anticancer Agents Med Chem 2021; 22:469-484. [PMID: 34102988 DOI: 10.2174/1871520621666210608105735] [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: 12/09/2020] [Revised: 02/02/2021] [Accepted: 02/22/2021] [Indexed: 11/22/2022]
Abstract
DNA integrity is continuously challenged by intrinsic cellular processes and environmental agents. To overcome this genomic damage, cells have developed multiple signaling pathways collectively named as DNA damage response (DDR) and composed of three components: (i) sensor proteins, which detect DNA damage, (ii) mediators that relay the signal downstream and recruit the repair machinery, and (iii) the repair proteins, which restore the damaged DNA. A flawed DDR and failure to repair the damage lead to the accumulation of genetic lesions and increased genomic instability, which is recognized as a hallmark of cancer. Cancer cells tend to harbor increased mutations in DDR genes and often have fewer DDR pathways than normal cells. This makes cancer cells more dependent on particular DDR pathways and thus become more susceptible to compounds inhibiting those pathways compared to normal cells, which have all the DDR pathways intact. Understanding the roles of different DDR proteins in the DNA damage response and repair pathways and identification of their structures have paved the way for the development of their inhibitors as targeted cancer therapy. In this review, we describe the major participants of various DDR pathways, their significance in carcinogenesis, and focus on the inhibitors developed against several key DDR proteins.
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Affiliation(s)
- Stina George Fernandes
- Sunandan Divatia School of Science, SVKM's NMIMS (Deemed to be) University, Mumbai, India
| | - Prachi Shah
- Sunandan Divatia School of Science, SVKM's NMIMS (Deemed to be) University, Mumbai, India
| | - Ekta Khattar
- Sunandan Divatia School of Science, SVKM's NMIMS (Deemed to be) University, Mumbai, India
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18
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Beyond DNA Repair: DNA-PKcs in Tumor Metastasis, Metabolism and Immunity. Cancers (Basel) 2020; 12:cancers12113389. [PMID: 33207636 PMCID: PMC7698146 DOI: 10.3390/cancers12113389] [Citation(s) in RCA: 19] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/19/2020] [Revised: 11/10/2020] [Accepted: 11/12/2020] [Indexed: 01/07/2023] Open
Abstract
The DNA-dependent protein kinase catalytic subunit (DNA-PKcs) is a key component of the DNA-PK complex that has a well-characterized function in the non-homologous end-joining repair of DNA double-strand breaks. Since its identification, a large body of evidence has demonstrated that DNA-PKcs is frequently overexpressed in cancer, plays a critical role in tumor development and progression, and is associated with poor prognosis of cancer patients. Intriguingly, recent studies have suggested novel functions beyond the canonical role of DNA-PKcs, which has transformed the paradigm of DNA-PKcs in tumorigenesis and has reinvigorated the interest to target DNA-PKcs for cancer treatment. In this review, we update recent advances in DNA-PKcs, in particular the emerging roles in tumor metastasis, metabolic dysregulation, and immune escape. We further discuss the possible molecular basis that underpins the pleiotropism of DNA-PKcs in cancer. Finally, we outline the biomarkers that may predict the therapeutic response to DNA-PKcs inhibitor therapy. Understanding the functional repertoire of DNA-PKcs will provide mechanistic insights of DNA-PKcs in malignancy and, more importantly, may revolutionize the design and utility of DNA-PKcs-based precision cancer therapy.
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19
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Begg K, Tavassoli M. Inside the hypoxic tumour: reprogramming of the DDR and radioresistance. Cell Death Discov 2020; 6:77. [PMID: 32864165 PMCID: PMC7434912 DOI: 10.1038/s41420-020-00311-0] [Citation(s) in RCA: 53] [Impact Index Per Article: 13.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/28/2020] [Revised: 03/27/2020] [Accepted: 04/09/2020] [Indexed: 12/19/2022] Open
Abstract
The hypoxic tumour is a chaotic landscape of struggle and adaption. Against the adversity of oxygen starvation, hypoxic cancer cells initiate a reprogramming of transcriptional activities, allowing for survival, metastasis and treatment failure. This makes hypoxia a crucial feature of aggressive tumours. Its importance, to cancer and other diseases, was recognised by the award of the 2019 Nobel Prize in Physiology or Medicine for research contributing to our understanding of the cellular response to oxygen deprivation. For cancers with limited treatment options, for example those that rely heavily on radiotherapy, the results of hypoxic adaption are particularly restrictive to treatment success. A fundamental aspect of this hypoxic reprogramming with direct relevance to radioresistance, is the alteration to the DNA damage response, a complex set of intermingling processes that guide the cell (for good or for bad) towards DNA repair or cell death. These alterations, compounded by the fact that oxygen is required to induce damage to DNA during radiotherapy, means that hypoxia represents a persistent obstacle in the treatment of many solid tumours. Considerable research has been done to reverse, correct or diminish hypoxia's power over successful treatment. Though many clinical trials have been performed or are ongoing, particularly in the context of imaging studies and biomarker discovery, this research has yet to inform clinical practice. Indeed, the only hypoxia intervention incorporated into standard of care is the use of the hypoxia-activated prodrug Nimorazole, for head and neck cancer patients in Denmark. Decades of research have allowed us to build a picture of the shift in the DNA repair capabilities of hypoxic cancer cells. A literature consensus tells us that key signal transducers of this response are upregulated, where repair proteins are downregulated. However, a complete understanding of how these alterations lead to radioresistance is yet to come.
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Affiliation(s)
- Katheryn Begg
- Head and Neck Oncology Group, Centre for Host Microbiome Interaction, King’s College London, Hodgkin Building, London, SE1 1UL UK
| | - Mahvash Tavassoli
- Head and Neck Oncology Group, Centre for Host Microbiome Interaction, King’s College London, Hodgkin Building, London, SE1 1UL UK
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20
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DNA-PK in human malignant disorders: Mechanisms and implications for pharmacological interventions. Pharmacol Ther 2020; 215:107617. [PMID: 32610116 DOI: 10.1016/j.pharmthera.2020.107617] [Citation(s) in RCA: 26] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/31/2020] [Accepted: 06/15/2020] [Indexed: 12/12/2022]
Abstract
The DNA-PK holoenzyme is a fundamental element of the DNA damage response machinery (DDR), which is responsible for cellular genomic stability. Consequently, and predictably, over the last decades since its identification and characterization, numerous pre-clinical and clinical studies reported observations correlating aberrant DNA-PK status and activity with cancer onset, progression and responses to therapeutic modalities. Notably, various studies have established in recent years the role of DNA-PK outside the DDR network, corroborating its role as a pleiotropic complex involved in transcriptional programs that operate biologic processes as epithelial to mesenchymal transition (EMT), hypoxia, metabolism, nuclear receptors signaling and inflammatory responses. In particular tumor entities as prostate cancer, immense research efforts assisted mapping and describing the overall signaling networks regulated by DNA-PK that control metastasis and tumor progression. Correspondingly, DNA-PK emerges as an obvious therapeutic target in cancer and data pertaining to various pharmacological approaches have been published, largely in context of combination with DNA-damaging agents (DDAs) that act by inflicting DNA double strand breaks (DSBs). Currently, new generation inhibitors are tested in clinical trials. Several excellent reviews have been published in recent years covering the biology of DNA-PK and its role in cancer. In the current article we are aiming to systematically describe the main findings on DNA-PK signaling in major cancer types, focusing on both preclinical and clinical reports and present a detailed current status of the DNA-PK inhibitors repertoire.
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