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Xiao Y, Yuan Y, Liu Y, Lin Z, Zheng G, Zhou D, Lv D. Targeted Protein Degradation: Current and Emerging Approaches for E3 Ligase Deconvolution. J Med Chem 2024. [PMID: 38981094 DOI: 10.1021/acs.jmedchem.4c00723] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 07/11/2024]
Abstract
Targeted protein degradation (TPD), including the use of proteolysis-targeting chimeras (PROTACs) and molecular glue degraders (MGDs) to degrade proteins, is an emerging strategy to develop novel therapies for cancer and beyond. PROTACs or MGDs function by inducing the proximity between an E3 ligase and a protein of interest (POI), leading to ubiquitination and consequent proteasomal degradation of the POI. Notably, one major issue in TPD is the lack of ligandable E3 ligases, as current studies predominantly use CUL4CRBN and CUL2VHL. The TPD community is seeking to expand the landscape of ligandable E3 ligases, but most discoveries rely on phenotypic screens or serendipity, necessitating systematic target deconvolution. Here, we examine and discuss both current and emerging E3 ligase deconvolution approaches for degraders discovered from phenotypic screens or monovalent glue chemistry campaigns, highlighting future prospects for identifying more ligandable E3 ligases.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yufeng Xiao
- Department of Medicinal Chemistry, College of Pharmacy, University of Florida, 1333 Center Drive, Gainesville, Florida 32610, United States
| | - Yaxia Yuan
- Department of Biochemistry and Structural Biology and Center for Innovative Drug Discovery, School of Medicine, University of Texas Health San Antonio, 7703 Floyd Curl Drive, San Antonio, Texas 78229, United States
- Mays Cancer Center, University of Texas Health Science Center at San Antonio, 7703 Floyd Curl Drive, San Antonio, Texas 78229, United States
| | - Yi Liu
- Department of Medicinal Chemistry, College of Pharmacy, University of Florida, 1333 Center Drive, Gainesville, Florida 32610, United States
| | - Zongtao Lin
- Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biophysics, Washington University in St. Louis, St. Louis, Missouri 63110, United States
| | - Guangrong Zheng
- Department of Medicinal Chemistry, College of Pharmacy, University of Florida, 1333 Center Drive, Gainesville, Florida 32610, United States
| | - Daohong Zhou
- Department of Biochemistry and Structural Biology and Center for Innovative Drug Discovery, School of Medicine, University of Texas Health San Antonio, 7703 Floyd Curl Drive, San Antonio, Texas 78229, United States
- Mays Cancer Center, University of Texas Health Science Center at San Antonio, 7703 Floyd Curl Drive, San Antonio, Texas 78229, United States
| | - Dongwen Lv
- Department of Biochemistry and Structural Biology and Center for Innovative Drug Discovery, School of Medicine, University of Texas Health San Antonio, 7703 Floyd Curl Drive, San Antonio, Texas 78229, United States
- Mays Cancer Center, University of Texas Health Science Center at San Antonio, 7703 Floyd Curl Drive, San Antonio, Texas 78229, United States
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2
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Basu AA, Zhang C, Riha IA, Magassa A, Campos MA, Caldwell AG, Ko F, Zhang X. A CRISPR activation screen identifies FBXO22 supporting targeted protein degradation. Nat Chem Biol 2024:10.1038/s41589-024-01655-9. [PMID: 38965383 DOI: 10.1038/s41589-024-01655-9] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/18/2023] [Accepted: 05/26/2024] [Indexed: 07/06/2024]
Abstract
Targeted protein degradation (TPD) represents a potent chemical biology paradigm that leverages the cellular degradation machinery to pharmacologically eliminate specific proteins of interest. Although multiple E3 ligases have been discovered to facilitate TPD, there exists a compelling requirement to diversify the pool of E3 ligases available for such applications. Here we describe a clustered regularly interspaced short palindromic repeats (CRISPR)-based transcriptional activation screen focused on human E3 ligases, with the goal of identifying E3 ligases that can facilitate heterobifunctional compound-mediated target degradation. Through this approach, we identified a candidate proteolysis-targeting chimera (PROTAC), 22-SLF, that induces the degradation of FK506-binding protein 12 when the transcription of FBXO22 gene is activated. Subsequent mechanistic investigations revealed that 22-SLF interacts with C227 and/or C228 in F-box protein 22 (FBXO22) to achieve target degradation. Lastly, we demonstrated the versatility of FBXO22-based PROTACs by effectively degrading additional endogenous proteins, including bromodomain-containing protein 4 and the echinoderm microtubule-associated protein-like 4-anaplastic lymphoma kinase fusion protein.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ananya A Basu
- Department of Chemistry, Northwestern University, Evanston, IL, USA
- Chemistry of Life Processes Institute, Northwestern University, Evanston, IL, USA
| | - Chenlu Zhang
- Department of Chemistry, Northwestern University, Evanston, IL, USA
| | - Isabella A Riha
- Department of Chemistry, Northwestern University, Evanston, IL, USA
| | - Assa Magassa
- Department of Chemistry, Northwestern University, Evanston, IL, USA
- Chemistry of Life Processes Institute, Northwestern University, Evanston, IL, USA
| | - Miguel A Campos
- Department of Chemistry, Northwestern University, Evanston, IL, USA
- Chemistry of Life Processes Institute, Northwestern University, Evanston, IL, USA
| | - Alana G Caldwell
- Department of Chemistry, Northwestern University, Evanston, IL, USA
- Interdisciplinary Biological Sciences Program, Northwestern University, Evanston, IL, USA
| | - Felicia Ko
- Department of Chemistry, Northwestern University, Evanston, IL, USA
| | - Xiaoyu Zhang
- Department of Chemistry, Northwestern University, Evanston, IL, USA.
- Chemistry of Life Processes Institute, Northwestern University, Evanston, IL, USA.
- Robert H. Lurie Comprehensive Cancer Center, Northwestern University, Chicago, IL, USA.
- Center for Human Immunobiology, Northwestern University, Chicago, IL, USA.
- International Institute for Nanotechnology, Northwestern University, Evanston, IL, USA.
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3
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Zhan W, Li Z, Zhang J, Liu Y, Liu G, Li B, Shen R, Jiang Y, Shang W, Gao S, Wu H, Wang Y, Chen W, Wang Z. Energy stress promotes P-bodies formation via lysine-63-linked polyubiquitination of HAX1. EMBO J 2024; 43:2759-2788. [PMID: 38769438 PMCID: PMC11217408 DOI: 10.1038/s44318-024-00120-6] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/10/2023] [Revised: 03/22/2024] [Accepted: 04/15/2024] [Indexed: 05/22/2024] Open
Abstract
Energy stress, characterized by the reduction of intracellular ATP, has been implicated in various diseases, including cancer. Here, we show that energy stress promotes the formation of P-bodies in a ubiquitin-dependent manner. Upon ATP depletion, the E3 ubiquitin ligase TRIM23 catalyzes lysine-63 (K63)-linked polyubiquitination of HCLS1-associated protein X-1 (HAX1). HAX1 ubiquitination triggers its liquid‒liquid phase separation (LLPS) and contributes to P-bodies assembly induced by energy stress. Ubiquitinated HAX1 also interacts with the essential P-body proteins, DDX6 and LSM14A, promoting their condensation. Moreover, we find that this TRIM23/HAX1 pathway is critical for the inhibition of global protein synthesis under energy stress conditions. Furthermore, high HAX1 ubiquitination, and increased cytoplasmic localization of TRIM23 along with elevated HAX1 levels, promotes colorectal cancer (CRC)-cell proliferation and correlates with poor prognosis in CRC patients. Our data not only elucidate a ubiquitination-dependent LLPS mechanism in RNP granules induced by energy stress but also propose a promising target for CRC therapy.
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Affiliation(s)
- Wanqi Zhan
- Department of Pathology, Nanfang Hospital, Southern Medical University, Guangzhou, Guangdong, China
- Department of Pathology, School of Basic Medical Sciences, Southern Medical University, Guangzhou, Guangdong, China
- Guangdong Province Key Laboratory of Molecular Tumor Pathology, Guangzhou, Guangdong, China
| | - Zhiyang Li
- Department of Pathology, Nanfang Hospital, Southern Medical University, Guangzhou, Guangdong, China
- Department of Pathology, School of Basic Medical Sciences, Southern Medical University, Guangzhou, Guangdong, China
- Guangdong Province Key Laboratory of Molecular Tumor Pathology, Guangzhou, Guangdong, China
| | - Jie Zhang
- Department of Anesthesiology, Zhongshan Hospital, Fudan University, Shanghai, China
- Shanghai Key Laboratory of Perioperative Stress and Protection, Shanghai, China
| | - Yongfeng Liu
- Radiation Medicine Institute, The First Affiliated Hospital, ZhengZhou University, ZhengZhou, Henan, China
| | - Guanglong Liu
- Department of Pathology, Nanfang Hospital, Southern Medical University, Guangzhou, Guangdong, China
- Department of Pathology, School of Basic Medical Sciences, Southern Medical University, Guangzhou, Guangdong, China
- Guangdong Province Key Laboratory of Molecular Tumor Pathology, Guangzhou, Guangdong, China
| | - Bingsong Li
- Department of Pathology, Nanfang Hospital, Southern Medical University, Guangzhou, Guangdong, China
- Jinfeng Laboratory, Chongqing, China
| | - Rong Shen
- Department of Pathology, Nanfang Hospital, Southern Medical University, Guangzhou, Guangdong, China
- Department of Pathology, School of Basic Medical Sciences, Southern Medical University, Guangzhou, Guangdong, China
- Guangdong Province Key Laboratory of Molecular Tumor Pathology, Guangzhou, Guangdong, China
| | - Yi Jiang
- Department of Anesthesiology, Zhongshan Hospital, Fudan University, Shanghai, China
- Shanghai Key Laboratory of Perioperative Stress and Protection, Shanghai, China
| | - Wanjing Shang
- Lymphocyte Biology Section, Laboratory of Immune System Biology, National Institute of Allergy and Infectious Diseases, National Institutes of Health, Bethesda, USA
| | - Shenjia Gao
- Department of Anesthesiology, Zhongshan Hospital, Fudan University, Shanghai, China
- Shanghai Key Laboratory of Perioperative Stress and Protection, Shanghai, China
| | - Han Wu
- Department of Anesthesiology, Zhongshan Hospital, Fudan University, Shanghai, China
- Shanghai Key Laboratory of Perioperative Stress and Protection, Shanghai, China
| | - Ya'nan Wang
- Department of Pathology, Nanfang Hospital, Southern Medical University, Guangzhou, Guangdong, China
- Department of Pathology, School of Basic Medical Sciences, Southern Medical University, Guangzhou, Guangdong, China
- Guangdong Province Key Laboratory of Molecular Tumor Pathology, Guangzhou, Guangdong, China
| | - Wankun Chen
- Department of Anesthesiology, Zhongshan Hospital, Fudan University, Shanghai, China.
- Shanghai Key Laboratory of Perioperative Stress and Protection, Shanghai, China.
- Department of Anesthesiology, Qingpu Branch of Zhongshan Hospital, Fudan University, Shanghai, China.
| | - Zhizhang Wang
- Department of Pathology, Nanfang Hospital, Southern Medical University, Guangzhou, Guangdong, China.
- Jinfeng Laboratory, Chongqing, China.
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Sobierajski T, Małolepsza J, Pichlak M, Gendaszewska-Darmach E, Błażewska KM. The impact of E3 ligase choice on PROTAC effectiveness in protein kinase degradation. Drug Discov Today 2024; 29:104032. [PMID: 38789027 DOI: 10.1016/j.drudis.2024.104032] [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: 02/02/2024] [Revised: 04/30/2024] [Accepted: 05/15/2024] [Indexed: 05/26/2024]
Abstract
Proteolysis targeting chimera (PROTACs) provide a novel therapeutic approach that is revolutionizing drug discovery. The success of PROTACs largely depends on the combination of their three fragments: E3 ligase ligand, linker and protein of interest (POI)-targeting ligand. We summarize the pivotal significance of the precise combination of the E3 ligase ligand with the POI-recruiting warhead, which is crucial for the successful execution of cellular processes and achieving the desired outcomes. Therefore, the key to our selection was the use of at least two ligands recruiting two different ligases. This approach enables a direct comparison of the impacts of the specific ligases on target degradation.
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Affiliation(s)
- Tomasz Sobierajski
- Institute of Organic Chemistry, Lodz University of Technology, Łódź, Poland
| | - Joanna Małolepsza
- Institute of Organic Chemistry, Lodz University of Technology, Łódź, Poland
| | - Marta Pichlak
- Institute of Molecular and Industrial Biotechnology, Lodz University of Technology, Łódź, Poland
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5
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Ji Y, Chen W, Wang X. Bromodomain and Extraterminal Domain Protein 2 in Multiple Human Diseases. J Pharmacol Exp Ther 2024; 389:277-288. [PMID: 38565308 DOI: 10.1124/jpet.123.002036] [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: 12/04/2023] [Revised: 03/22/2024] [Accepted: 03/25/2024] [Indexed: 04/04/2024] Open
Abstract
Bromodomain and extraterminal domain protein 2 (BRD2), a member of the bromodomain and extraterminal domain (BET) protein family, is a crucial epigenetic regulator with significant function in various diseases and cellular processes. The central function of BRD2 is modulating gene transcription by binding to acetylated lysine residues on histones and transcription factors. This review highlights key findings on BRD2 in recent years, emphasizing its roles in maintaining genomic stability, influencing chromatin spatial organization, and participating in transcriptional regulation. BRD2's diverse functions are underscored by its involvement in diseases such as malignant tumors, neurologic disorders, inflammatory conditions, metabolic diseases, and virus infection. Notably, the potential role of BRD2 as a diagnostic marker and therapeutic target is discussed in the context of various diseases. Although pan inhibitors targeting the BET family have shown promise in preclinical studies, a critical need exists for the development of highly selective BRD2 inhibitors. In conclusion, this review offers insights into the multifaceted nature of BRD2 and calls for continued research to unravel its intricate mechanisms and harness its therapeutic potential. SIGNIFICANCE STATEMENT: BRD2 is involved in the occurrence and development of diseases through maintaining genomic stability, influencing chromatin spatial organization, and participating in transcriptional regulation. Targeting BRD2 through protein degradation-targeting complexes technology is emerging as a promising therapeutic approach for malignant cancer and inflammatory diseases.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yikang Ji
- Department of Oral and Maxillofacial-Head and Neck Oncology, Shanghai Ninth People's Hospital, Shanghai Jiao Tong University School of Medicine; College of Stomatology, Shanghai Jiao Tong University; National Center for Stomatology; National Clinical Research Center for Oral Diseases; Shanghai Key Laboratory of Stomatology; Shanghai Research Institute of Stomatology
| | - Wantao Chen
- Department of Oral and Maxillofacial-Head and Neck Oncology, Shanghai Ninth People's Hospital, Shanghai Jiao Tong University School of Medicine; College of Stomatology, Shanghai Jiao Tong University; National Center for Stomatology; National Clinical Research Center for Oral Diseases; Shanghai Key Laboratory of Stomatology; Shanghai Research Institute of Stomatology
| | - Xu Wang
- Department of Oral and Maxillofacial-Head and Neck Oncology, Shanghai Ninth People's Hospital, Shanghai Jiao Tong University School of Medicine; College of Stomatology, Shanghai Jiao Tong University; National Center for Stomatology; National Clinical Research Center for Oral Diseases; Shanghai Key Laboratory of Stomatology; Shanghai Research Institute of Stomatology
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6
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Tsai JM, Nowak RP, Ebert BL, Fischer ES. Targeted protein degradation: from mechanisms to clinic. Nat Rev Mol Cell Biol 2024:10.1038/s41580-024-00729-9. [PMID: 38684868 DOI: 10.1038/s41580-024-00729-9] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 03/21/2024] [Indexed: 05/02/2024]
Abstract
Targeted protein degradation refers to the use of small molecules to induce the selective degradation of proteins. In its most common form, this degradation is achieved through ligand-mediated neo-interactions between ubiquitin E3 ligases - the principal waste disposal machines of a cell - and the protein targets of interest, resulting in ubiquitylation and subsequent proteasomal degradation. Notable advances have been made in biological and mechanistic understanding of serendipitously discovered degraders. This improved understanding and novel chemistry has not only provided clinical proof of concept for targeted protein degradation but has also led to rapid growth of the field, with dozens of investigational drugs in active clinical trials. Two distinct classes of protein degradation therapeutics are being widely explored: bifunctional PROTACs and molecular glue degraders, both of which have their unique advantages and challenges. Here, we review the current landscape of targeted protein degradation approaches and how they have parallels in biological processes. We also outline the ongoing clinical exploration of novel degraders and provide some perspectives on the directions the field might take.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jonathan M Tsai
- Department of Medical Oncology, Dana Farber Cancer Institute, Boston, MA, USA
- Broad Institute of Harvard and MIT, Cambridge, MA, USA
- Department of Pathology, Brigham and Women's Hospital, Boston, MA, USA
| | - Radosław P Nowak
- Department of Cancer Biology, Dana-Farber Cancer Institute, Boston, MA, USA
- Department of Biological Chemistry and Molecular Pharmacology, Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA, USA
- Institute of Structural Biology, Medical Faculty, University of Bonn, Bonn, Germany
| | - Benjamin L Ebert
- Department of Medical Oncology, Dana Farber Cancer Institute, Boston, MA, USA.
- Broad Institute of Harvard and MIT, Cambridge, MA, USA.
- Howard Hughes Medical Institute, Boston, MA, USA.
| | - Eric S Fischer
- Department of Cancer Biology, Dana-Farber Cancer Institute, Boston, MA, USA.
- Department of Biological Chemistry and Molecular Pharmacology, Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA, USA.
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7
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Mitsiades CS. Proteasome Inhibitors in Multiple Myeloma: Biological Insights on Mechanisms of Action or Resistance Informed by Functional Genomics. Hematol Oncol Clin North Am 2024; 38:321-336. [PMID: 38278626 DOI: 10.1016/j.hoc.2023.12.016] [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] [Indexed: 01/28/2024]
Abstract
During the last 20 years, proteasome inhibitors have been a cornerstone for the therapeutic management of multiple myeloma (MM). This review highlights how MM research has evolved over time in terms of our understanding of the mechanistic basis for the pronounced clinical activity of proteasome inhibitors in MM, compared with the limited clinical applications of this drug class outside the setting of plasma cell dyscrasias.
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Affiliation(s)
- Constantine S Mitsiades
- Department of Medical Oncology, Dana-Farber Cancer Institute, Boston, MA, USA; Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA, USA; Broad Institute of Massachusetts Institute of Technology (MIT) and Harvard, Cambridge, MA, USA; Ludwig Center at Harvard, Boston, MA, USA.
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8
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Cheng L, Wang Y, Guo Y, Zhang SS, Xiao H. Advancing protein therapeutics through proximity-induced chemistry. Cell Chem Biol 2024; 31:428-445. [PMID: 37802076 PMCID: PMC10960704 DOI: 10.1016/j.chembiol.2023.09.004] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/23/2023] [Revised: 08/21/2023] [Accepted: 09/15/2023] [Indexed: 10/08/2023]
Abstract
Recent years have seen a remarkable growth in the field of protein-based medical treatments. Nevertheless, concerns have arisen regarding the cytotoxicity limitations, low affinity, potential immunogenicity, low stability, and challenges to modify these proteins. To overcome these obstacles, proximity-induced chemistry has emerged as a next-generation strategy for advancing protein therapeutics. This method allows site-specific modification of proteins with therapeutic agents, improving their effectiveness without extensive engineering. In addition, this innovative approach enables spatial control of the reaction based on proximity, facilitating the formation of irreversible covalent bonds between therapeutic proteins and their targets. This capability becomes particularly valuable in addressing challenges such as the low affinity frequently encountered between therapeutic proteins and their targets, as well as the limited availability of small molecules for specific protein targets. As a result, proximity-induced chemistry is reshaping the field of protein drug preparation and propelling the revolution in novel protein therapeutics.
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Affiliation(s)
- Linqi Cheng
- Department of Chemistry, Rice University, 6100 Main Street, Houston, TX 77005, USA
| | - Yixian Wang
- Department of Chemistry, Rice University, 6100 Main Street, Houston, TX 77005, USA
| | - Yiming Guo
- Department of Chemistry, Rice University, 6100 Main Street, Houston, TX 77005, USA
| | - Sophie S Zhang
- Department of Chemistry, Rice University, 6100 Main Street, Houston, TX 77005, USA
| | - Han Xiao
- Department of Chemistry, Rice University, 6100 Main Street, Houston, TX 77005, USA; Department of Biosciences, Rice University, 6100 Main Street, Houston, TX 77005, USA; Department of Bioengineering, Rice University, 6100 Main Street, Houston, TX 77005, USA.
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9
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Desantis J, Bazzacco A, Eleuteri M, Tuci S, Bianconi E, Macchiarulo A, Mercorelli B, Loregian A, Goracci L. Design, synthesis, and biological evaluation of first-in-class indomethacin-based PROTACs degrading SARS-CoV-2 main protease and with broad-spectrum antiviral activity. Eur J Med Chem 2024; 268:116202. [PMID: 38394929 DOI: 10.1016/j.ejmech.2024.116202] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/15/2023] [Revised: 01/29/2024] [Accepted: 01/31/2024] [Indexed: 02/25/2024]
Abstract
To date, Proteolysis Targeting Chimera (PROTAC) technology has been successfully applied to mediate proteasomal-induced degradation of several pharmaceutical targets mainly related to oncology, immune disorders, and neurodegenerative diseases. On the other hand, its exploitation in the field of antiviral drug discovery is still in its infancy. Recently, we described two indomethacin (INM)-based PROTACs displaying broad-spectrum antiviral activity against coronaviruses. Here, we report the design, synthesis, and characterization of a novel series of INM-based PROTACs that recruit either Von-Hippel Lindau (VHL) or cereblon (CRBN) E3 ligases. The panel of INM-based PROTACs was also enlarged by varying the linker moiety. The antiviral activity resulted very susceptible to this modification, particularly for PROTACs hijacking VHL as E3 ligase, with one piperazine-based compound (PROTAC 6) showing potent anti-SARS-CoV-2 activity in infected human lung cells. Interestingly, degradation assays in both uninfected and virus-infected cells with the most promising PROTACs emerged so far (PROTACs 5 and 6) demonstrated that INM-PROTACs do not degrade human PGES-2 protein, as initially hypothesized, but induce the concentration-dependent degradation of SARS-CoV-2 main protease (Mpro) both in Mpro-transfected and in SARS-CoV-2-infected cells. Importantly, thanks to the target degradation, INM-PROTACs exhibited a considerable enhancement in antiviral activity with respect to indomethacin, with EC50 values in the low-micromolar/nanomolar range. Finally, kinetic solubility as well as metabolic and chemical stability were measured for PROTACs 5 and 6. Altogether, the identification of INM-based PROTACs as the first class of SARS-CoV-2 Mpro degraders demonstrating activity also in SARS-CoV-2-infected cells represents a significant advance in the development of effective, broad-spectrum anti-coronavirus strategies.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jenny Desantis
- Department of Chemistry, Biology, and Biotechnology, University of Perugia, Italy
| | | | - Michela Eleuteri
- Department of Chemistry, Biology, and Biotechnology, University of Perugia, Italy
| | - Sara Tuci
- Department of Molecular Medicine, University of Padua, Padua, Italy
| | - Elisa Bianconi
- Department of Pharmaceutical Science, University of Perugia, Italy
| | | | | | - Arianna Loregian
- Department of Molecular Medicine, University of Padua, Padua, Italy.
| | - Laura Goracci
- Department of Chemistry, Biology, and Biotechnology, University of Perugia, Italy.
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10
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Xie H, Zhang C. Potential of the nanoplatform and PROTAC interface to achieve targeted protein degradation through the Ubiquitin-Proteasome system. Eur J Med Chem 2024; 267:116168. [PMID: 38310686 DOI: 10.1016/j.ejmech.2024.116168] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/03/2023] [Revised: 01/11/2024] [Accepted: 01/21/2024] [Indexed: 02/06/2024]
Abstract
In eukaryotic cells, the ubiquitin-proteasome system (UPS) plays a crucial role in selectively breaking down specific proteins. The ability of the UPS to target proteins effectively and expedite their removal has significantly contributed to the evolution of UPS-based targeted protein degradation (TPD) strategies. In particular, proteolysis targeting chimeras (PROTACs) are an immensely promising tool due to their high efficiency, extensive target range, and negligible drug resistance. This breakthrough has overcome the limitations posed by traditionally "non-druggable" proteins. However, their high molecular weight and constrained solubility impede the delivery of PROTACs. Fortunately, the field of nanomedicine has experienced significant growth, enabling the delivery of PROTACs through nanoscale drug-delivery systems, which effectively improves the stability, solubility, drug distribution, tissue-specific accumulation, and stimulus-responsive release of PROTACs. This article reviews the mechanism of action attributed to PROTACs and their potential implications for clinical applications. Moreover, we present strategies involving nanoplatforms for the effective delivery of PROTACs and evaluate recent advances in targeting nanoplatforms to the UPS. Ultimately, an assessment is conducted to determine the feasibility of utilizing PROTACs and nanoplatforms for UPS-based TPD. The primary aim of this review is to provide innovative, reliable solutions to overcome the current challenges obstructing the effective use of PROTACs in the management of cancer, neurodegenerative diseases, and metabolic syndrome. Therefore, this is a promising technology for improving the treatment status of major diseases.
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Affiliation(s)
- Hanshu Xie
- Stomatological Hospital, School of Stomatology, Southern Medical University, Guangzhou, 510280, China
| | - Chao Zhang
- Stomatological Hospital, School of Stomatology, Southern Medical University, Guangzhou, 510280, China.
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11
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Cicala CM, Olivares-Rivas I, Aguirre-Carrillo JA, Serrano C. KIT/PDGFRA inhibitors for the treatment of gastrointestinal stromal tumors: getting to the gist of the problem. Expert Opin Investig Drugs 2024; 33:159-170. [PMID: 38344849 DOI: 10.1080/13543784.2024.2318317] [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: 10/04/2023] [Accepted: 02/09/2024] [Indexed: 02/15/2024]
Abstract
INTRODUCTION Approximately 90% of gastrointestinal stromal tumors (GISTs) are driven by activating mutations in receptor tyrosine-kinases KIT or PDGFRA. Despite the outstanding results of first-line imatinib in advanced GIST, resistance ultimately occurs mainly through secondary mutations in KIT/PDGFRA. Other tyrosine-kinase inhibitors (TKIs) with a broader spectrum of activity against these mutations are approved after imatinib failure. However, response rates and progression-free survival are drastically lower compared to imatinib. Notably, imatinib also triggers early tolerance adaptation mechanisms, which precede the occurrence of secondary mutations. AREAS COVERED In this review, we outline the current landscape of KIT inhibitors, discuss the novel agents, and present additional biological pathways that may be therapeutically exploitable. EXPERT OPINION The development of broad-spectrum and highly selective TKIs able to induce a sustained KIT/PDGFRA inhibition is the pillar of preclinical and clinical investigation in GIST. However, it is now recognized that the situation is more intricate, with various factors interacting with KIT and PDGFRA, playing a crucial role in the response and resistance to treatments. Future strategies in the management of advanced GIST should integrate driver inhibition with the blockade of other molecules to enhance cell death and establish enduring responses in patients.
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Affiliation(s)
- Carlo María Cicala
- Sarcoma Translational Research Group, Vall d'Hebron Institute of Oncology (VHIO), Barcelona, Spain
- Department of Medical Oncology, Vall d'Hebron University Hospital, Barcelona, Spain
| | - Iván Olivares-Rivas
- Sarcoma Translational Research Group, Vall d'Hebron Institute of Oncology (VHIO), Barcelona, Spain
| | | | - César Serrano
- Sarcoma Translational Research Group, Vall d'Hebron Institute of Oncology (VHIO), Barcelona, Spain
- Department of Medical Oncology, Vall d'Hebron University Hospital, Barcelona, Spain
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12
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Wells JA, Kumru K. Extracellular targeted protein degradation: an emerging modality for drug discovery. Nat Rev Drug Discov 2024; 23:126-140. [PMID: 38062152 DOI: 10.1038/s41573-023-00833-z] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 10/23/2023] [Indexed: 02/08/2024]
Abstract
Targeted protein degradation (TPD) has emerged in the past decade as a major new drug modality to remove intracellular proteins with bispecific small molecules that recruit the protein of interest (POI) to an E3 ligase for degradation in the proteasome. Unlike classic occupancy-based drugs, intracellular TPD (iTPD) eliminates the target and works catalytically, and so can be more effective and sustained, with lower dose requirements. Recently, this approach has been expanded to the extracellular proteome, including both secreted and membrane proteins. Extracellular targeted protein degradation (eTPD) uses bispecific antibodies, conjugates or small molecules to degrade extracellular POIs by trafficking them to the lysosome for degradation. Here, we focus on recent advances in eTPD, covering degrader systems, targets, molecular designs and parameters to advance them. Now almost any protein, intracellular or extracellular, is addressable in principle with TPD.
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Affiliation(s)
- James A Wells
- Department of Pharmaceutical Chemistry, University of California San Francisco, San Francisco, CA, USA.
- Department of Cellular & Molecular Pharmacology, University of California San Francisco, San Francisco, CA, USA.
| | - Kaan Kumru
- Department of Pharmaceutical Chemistry, University of California San Francisco, San Francisco, CA, USA
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13
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Hickey CM, Digianantonio KM, Zimmermann K, Harbin A, Quinn C, Patel A, Gareiss P, Chapman A, Tiberi B, Dobrodziej J, Corradi J, Cacace AM, Langley DR, Békés M. Co-opting the E3 ligase KLHDC2 for targeted protein degradation by small molecules. Nat Struct Mol Biol 2024; 31:311-322. [PMID: 38177675 DOI: 10.1038/s41594-023-01146-w] [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: 04/14/2023] [Accepted: 10/04/2023] [Indexed: 01/06/2024]
Abstract
Targeted protein degradation (TPD) by PROTAC (proteolysis-targeting chimera) and molecular glue small molecules is an emerging therapeutic strategy. To expand the roster of E3 ligases that can be utilized for TPD, we describe the discovery and biochemical characterization of small-molecule ligands targeting the E3 ligase KLHDC2. Furthermore, we functionalize these KLHDC2-targeting ligands into KLHDC2-based BET-family and AR PROTAC degraders and demonstrate KLHDC2-dependent target-protein degradation. Additionally, we offer insight into the assembly of the KLHDC2 E3 ligase complex. Using biochemical binding studies, X-ray crystallography and cryo-EM, we show that the KLHDC2 E3 ligase assembles into a dynamic tetramer held together via its own C terminus, and that this assembly can be modulated by substrate and ligand engagement.
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Affiliation(s)
| | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | - Bernadette Tiberi
- Arvinas, Inc, New Haven, CT, USA
- Genetics, Genomics and Cancer Biology Graduate Program, Thomas Jefferson University, Philadelphia, PA, USA
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14
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Danishuddin, Jamal MS, Song KS, Lee KW, Kim JJ, Park YM. Revolutionizing Drug Targeting Strategies: Integrating Artificial Intelligence and Structure-Based Methods in PROTAC Development. Pharmaceuticals (Basel) 2023; 16:1649. [PMID: 38139776 PMCID: PMC10747325 DOI: 10.3390/ph16121649] [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: 10/24/2023] [Revised: 11/20/2023] [Accepted: 11/22/2023] [Indexed: 12/24/2023] Open
Abstract
PROteolysis TArgeting Chimera (PROTAC) is an emerging technology in chemical biology and drug discovery. This technique facilitates the complete removal of the target proteins that are "undruggable" or challenging to target through chemical molecules via the Ubiquitin-Proteasome System (UPS). PROTACs have been widely explored and outperformed not only in cancer but also in other diseases. During the past few decades, several academic institutes and pharma companies have poured more efforts into PROTAC-related technologies, setting the stage for several major degrader trial readouts in clinical phases. Despite their promising results, the formation of robust ternary orientation, off-target activity, poor permeability, and binding affinity are some of the limitations that hinder their development. Recent advancements in computational technologies have facilitated progress in the development of PROTACs. Researchers have been able to utilize these technologies to explore a wider range of E3 ligases and optimize linkers, thereby gaining a better understanding of the effectiveness and safety of PROTACs in clinical settings. In this review, we briefly explore the computational strategies reported to date for the formation of PROTAC components and discuss the key challenges and opportunities for further research in this area.
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Affiliation(s)
- Danishuddin
- Department of Biotechnology, Yeungnam University, Gyeongsan 38541, Republic of Korea;
| | | | - Kyoung-Seob Song
- Department of Medical Science, Kosin University College of Medicine, 194 Wachi-ro, Yeongdo-gu, Busan 49104, Republic of Korea;
| | - Keun-Woo Lee
- Division of Life Science, Department of Bio & Medical Big-Data (BK4 Program), Research Institute of Natural Science (RINS), Gyeongsang National University (GNU), 501 Jinju-daero, Jinju 52828, Republic of Korea
- Angel i-Drug Design (AiDD), 33-3 Jinyangho-ro 44, Jinju 52650, Republic of Korea
| | - Jong-Joo Kim
- Department of Biotechnology, Yeungnam University, Gyeongsan 38541, Republic of Korea;
| | - Yeong-Min Park
- Department of Integrative Biological Sciences and Industry, Sejong University, 209, Neugdong-ro, Gwangjin-gu, Seoul 05006, Republic of Korea
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15
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Röth S, Kocaturk NM, Sathyamurthi PS, Carton B, Watt M, Macartney TJ, Chan KH, Isidro-Llobet A, Konopacka A, Queisser MA, Sapkota GP. Identification of KLHDC2 as an efficient proximity-induced degrader of K-RAS, STK33, β-catenin, and FoxP3. Cell Chem Biol 2023; 30:1261-1276.e7. [PMID: 37591251 DOI: 10.1016/j.chembiol.2023.07.006] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/08/2022] [Revised: 05/09/2023] [Accepted: 07/16/2023] [Indexed: 08/19/2023]
Abstract
Targeted protein degradation (TPD), induced by enforcing target proximity to an E3 ubiquitin ligase using small molecules has become an important drug discovery approach for targeting previously undruggable disease-causing proteins. However, out of over 600 E3 ligases encoded by the human genome, just over 10 E3 ligases are currently utilized for TPD. Here, using the affinity-directed protein missile (AdPROM) system, in which an anti-GFP nanobody was linked to an E3 ligase, we screened over 30 E3 ligases for their ability to degrade 4 target proteins, K-RAS, STK33, β-catenin, and FoxP3, which were endogenously GFP-tagged. Several new E3 ligases, including CUL2 diGly receptor KLHDC2, emerged as effective degraders, suggesting that these E3 ligases can be taken forward for the development of small-molecule degraders, such as proteolysis targeting chimeras (PROTACs). As a proof of concept, we demonstrate that a KLHDC2-recruiting peptide-based PROTAC connected to chloroalkane is capable of degrading HALO-GFP protein in cells.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sascha Röth
- Medical Research Council Protein Phosphorylation and Ubiquitylation Unit, University of Dundee, Dundee, UK
| | - Nur Mehpare Kocaturk
- Medical Research Council Protein Phosphorylation and Ubiquitylation Unit, University of Dundee, Dundee, UK
| | - Preethi S Sathyamurthi
- Protein Degradation Group, Medicines Research Centre, GSK, Gunnels Wood Road, Stevenage, UK
| | - Bill Carton
- Medical Research Council Protein Phosphorylation and Ubiquitylation Unit, University of Dundee, Dundee, UK
| | - Matthew Watt
- Medical Research Council Protein Phosphorylation and Ubiquitylation Unit, University of Dundee, Dundee, UK
| | - Thomas J Macartney
- Medical Research Council Protein Phosphorylation and Ubiquitylation Unit, University of Dundee, Dundee, UK
| | - Kwok-Ho Chan
- Protein Degradation Group, Medicines Research Centre, GSK, Gunnels Wood Road, Stevenage, UK
| | - Albert Isidro-Llobet
- Chemical Biology, Medicines Research Centre, GSK, Gunnels Wood Road, Stevenage, UK
| | - Agnieszka Konopacka
- Protein Degradation Group, Medicines Research Centre, GSK, Gunnels Wood Road, Stevenage, UK
| | - Markus A Queisser
- Protein Degradation Group, Medicines Research Centre, GSK, Gunnels Wood Road, Stevenage, UK
| | - Gopal P Sapkota
- Medical Research Council Protein Phosphorylation and Ubiquitylation Unit, University of Dundee, Dundee, UK.
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16
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Miao Q, Kadam VD, Mukherjee A, Tan Z, Teng M. Unlocking DCAFs To Catalyze Degrader Development: An Arena for Innovative Approaches. J Med Chem 2023; 66:13369-13383. [PMID: 37738232 DOI: 10.1021/acs.jmedchem.3c01209] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 09/24/2023]
Abstract
Chemically induced proximity-based targeted protein degradation (TPD) has become a prominent paradigm in drug discovery. With the clinical benefit demonstrated by certain small-molecule protein degraders that target the cullin-RING E3 ubiquitin ligases (CRLs), the field has proactively strategized to tackle anticipated drug resistance by harnessing additional E3 ubiquitin ligases to enrich the arsenal of this therapeutic approach. Here, we endeavor to explore the collaborative efforts involved in unlocking a broad range of CRL4DCAF for degrader drug development. Throughout the discussion, we also highlight how both conventional and innovative approaches in drug discovery can be taken to realize this objective. Moving ahead, we expect a greater allocation of resources in TPD to pursue these high-hanging fruits.
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Affiliation(s)
- Qi Miao
- Center for Drug Discovery, Department of Pathology & Immunology, and Verna and Marrs McLean Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Pharmacology, Baylor College of Medicine, Houston, Texas 77030, United States
| | - Vilas D Kadam
- Center for Drug Discovery, Department of Pathology & Immunology, and Verna and Marrs McLean Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Pharmacology, Baylor College of Medicine, Houston, Texas 77030, United States
| | - Ayan Mukherjee
- Center for Drug Discovery, Department of Pathology & Immunology, and Verna and Marrs McLean Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Pharmacology, Baylor College of Medicine, Houston, Texas 77030, United States
| | - Zhi Tan
- Center for Drug Discovery, Department of Pathology & Immunology, and Verna and Marrs McLean Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Pharmacology, Baylor College of Medicine, Houston, Texas 77030, United States
| | - Mingxing Teng
- Center for Drug Discovery, Department of Pathology & Immunology, and Verna and Marrs McLean Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Pharmacology, Baylor College of Medicine, Houston, Texas 77030, United States
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17
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Choudhary D, Kaur A, Singh P, Chaudhary G, Kaur R, Bayan MF, Chandrasekaran B, Marji SM, Ayman R. Target protein degradation by protacs: A budding cancer treatment strategy. Pharmacol Ther 2023; 250:108525. [PMID: 37696366 DOI: 10.1016/j.pharmthera.2023.108525] [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: 06/22/2023] [Revised: 08/25/2023] [Accepted: 08/30/2023] [Indexed: 09/13/2023]
Abstract
Cancer is one of the most common causes of death. So, its lethal effect increases with time. Near about hundreds of cancers are known in humans. Cancer treatment is done to cure or prolonged remission, and shrinkage of the tumor. Cytotoxic agents, biological agents/targeted drugs, hormonal drugs, surgery, radiotherapy/proton therapy, chemotherapy, immunotherapy, and gene therapy are currently used in the treatment of cancer but their cost is high and cause various side effects. Seeing this, some new targeted strategies such as PROTACs are the need of the time. Proteolysis targeting chimera (PROTAC) has become one of the most discussed topics regarding cancer treatment. Few of the PROTAC molecules are in the trial phases. PROTACs have many advantages over other strategies such as modularity, compatibility, sub-stoichiometric activity, acting on undruggable targets, molecular design, and acts on intracellular targets, selectivity and specificity can be recruited for any cancer, versatility, and others. PROTACs are having some unclear questions on their pharmacokinetics, heavy-molecular weight, etc. PROTACs are anticipated to bring about a conversion in current healthcare and will emerge as booming treatments. In this review article we summarize PROTACs, their mechanism of action, uses, advantages, disadvantages, challenges, and future aspects for the successful development of potent PROTACs as a drug strategy.
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Affiliation(s)
- Diksha Choudhary
- Chitkara College of Pharmacy, Chitkara University, Punjab 140401, India
| | - Amritpal Kaur
- Chitkara College of Pharmacy, Chitkara University, Punjab 140401, India
| | - Pargat Singh
- Chitkara College of Pharmacy, Chitkara University, Punjab 140401, India
| | - Gaurav Chaudhary
- Chitkara College of Pharmacy, Chitkara University, Punjab 140401, India
| | - Rajwinder Kaur
- Chitkara College of Pharmacy, Chitkara University, Punjab 140401, India.
| | - Mohammad F Bayan
- Faculty of Pharmacy, Philadelphia University, P.O. Box 1, Amman 19392, Jordan
| | | | - Saeed M Marji
- Faculty of Pharmacy, Philadelphia University, P.O. Box 1, Amman 19392, Jordan
| | - Reema Ayman
- Faculty of Pharmacy, Philadelphia University, P.O. Box 1, Amman 19392, Jordan
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18
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Basu AA, Zhang C, Riha IA, Magassa A, Ko F, Zhang X. A CRISPR activation screen identifies FBXO22 as an E3 ligase supporting targeted protein degradation. BIORXIV : THE PREPRINT SERVER FOR BIOLOGY 2023:2023.09.15.557708. [PMID: 37745578 PMCID: PMC10515933 DOI: 10.1101/2023.09.15.557708] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 09/26/2023]
Abstract
Targeted protein degradation (TPD) represents a potent chemical biology paradigm that leverages the cellular degradation machinery to pharmacologically eliminate specific proteins of interest. Although multiple E3 ligases have been discovered to facilitate TPD, there exists a compelling requirement to diversify the pool of E3 ligases available for such applications. This expansion will broaden the scope of potential protein targets, accommodating those with varying subcellular localizations and expression patterns. In this study, we describe a CRISPR-based transcriptional activation screen focused on human E3 ligases, with the goal of identifying E3 ligases that can facilitate heterobifunctional compound-mediated target degradation. This approach allows us to address the limitations associated with investigating candidate degrader molecules in specific cell lines that either lack or have low levels of the desired E3 ligases. Through this approach, we identified a candidate proteolysis-targeting chimera (PROTAC), 22-SLF, that induces the degradation of FKBP12 when the FBXO22 gene transcription is activated. 22-SLF induced the degradation of endogenous FKBP12 in a FBXO22-dependent manner across multiple cancer cell lines. Subsequent mechanistic investigations revealed that 22-SLF interacts with C227 and/or C228 in FBXO22 to achieve the target degradation. Finally, we demonstrated the versatility of FBXO22-based PROTACs by effectively degrading another endogenous protein BRD4. This study uncovers FBXO22 as an E3 ligase capable of supporting ligand-induced protein degradation through electrophilic PROTACs. The platform we have developed can readily be applied to elucidate protein degradation pathways by identifying E3 ligases that facilitate either small molecule-induced or endogenous protein degradation.
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19
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He K, Wang Z, Luo M, Li B, Ding N, Li L, He B, Wang H, Cao J, Huang C, Yang J, Chen HN. Metastasis organotropism in colorectal cancer: advancing toward innovative therapies. J Transl Med 2023; 21:612. [PMID: 37689664 PMCID: PMC10493031 DOI: 10.1186/s12967-023-04460-5] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/25/2023] [Accepted: 08/19/2023] [Indexed: 09/11/2023] Open
Abstract
Distant metastasis remains a leading cause of mortality among patients with colorectal cancer (CRC). Organotropism, referring to the propensity of metastasis to target specific organs, is a well-documented phenomenon in CRC, with the liver, lungs, and peritoneum being preferred sites. Prior to establishing premetastatic niches within host organs, CRC cells secrete substances that promote metastatic organotropism. Given the pivotal role of organotropism in CRC metastasis, a comprehensive understanding of its molecular underpinnings is crucial for biomarker-based diagnosis, innovative treatment development, and ultimately, improved patient outcomes. In this review, we focus on metabolic reprogramming, tumor-derived exosomes, the immune system, and cancer cell-organ interactions to outline the molecular mechanisms of CRC organotropic metastasis. Furthermore, we consider the prospect of targeting metastatic organotropism for CRC therapy.
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Affiliation(s)
- Kai He
- School of Basic Medical Sciences and State Key Laboratory of Southwestern Chinese Medicine Resources, Chengdu University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Chengdu, 611137, China
- State Key Laboratory of Biotherapy and Cancer Center, West China Hospital, and West China School of Basic Medical Sciences and Forensic Medicine, Sichuan University, and Collaborative Innovation Center for Biotherapy, Chengdu, 610041, China
| | - Zhihan Wang
- State Key Laboratory of Biotherapy and Cancer Center, West China Hospital, and West China School of Basic Medical Sciences and Forensic Medicine, Sichuan University, and Collaborative Innovation Center for Biotherapy, Chengdu, 610041, China
| | - Maochao Luo
- State Key Laboratory of Biotherapy and Cancer Center, West China Hospital, and West China School of Basic Medical Sciences and Forensic Medicine, Sichuan University, and Collaborative Innovation Center for Biotherapy, Chengdu, 610041, China
| | - Bowen Li
- State Key Laboratory of Biotherapy and Cancer Center, West China Hospital, and West China School of Basic Medical Sciences and Forensic Medicine, Sichuan University, and Collaborative Innovation Center for Biotherapy, Chengdu, 610041, China
| | - Ning Ding
- School of Basic Medical Sciences and State Key Laboratory of Southwestern Chinese Medicine Resources, Chengdu University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Chengdu, 611137, China
| | - Lei Li
- School of Basic Medical Sciences and State Key Laboratory of Southwestern Chinese Medicine Resources, Chengdu University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Chengdu, 611137, China
| | - Bo He
- State Key Laboratory of Biotherapy and Cancer Center, West China Hospital, and West China School of Basic Medical Sciences and Forensic Medicine, Sichuan University, and Collaborative Innovation Center for Biotherapy, Chengdu, 610041, China
| | - Han Wang
- State Key Laboratory of Biotherapy and Cancer Center, West China Hospital, and West China School of Basic Medical Sciences and Forensic Medicine, Sichuan University, and Collaborative Innovation Center for Biotherapy, Chengdu, 610041, China
| | - Jiangjun Cao
- State Key Laboratory of Biotherapy and Cancer Center, West China Hospital, and West China School of Basic Medical Sciences and Forensic Medicine, Sichuan University, and Collaborative Innovation Center for Biotherapy, Chengdu, 610041, China
| | - Canhua Huang
- School of Basic Medical Sciences and State Key Laboratory of Southwestern Chinese Medicine Resources, Chengdu University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Chengdu, 611137, China
- State Key Laboratory of Biotherapy and Cancer Center, West China Hospital, and West China School of Basic Medical Sciences and Forensic Medicine, Sichuan University, and Collaborative Innovation Center for Biotherapy, Chengdu, 610041, China
| | - Jun Yang
- Department of Oncology, The First Affiliated Hospital of Kunming Medical University, Kunming, 650032, China.
| | - Hai-Ning Chen
- State Key Laboratory of Biotherapy and Cancer Center, West China Hospital, and West China School of Basic Medical Sciences and Forensic Medicine, Sichuan University, and Collaborative Innovation Center for Biotherapy, Chengdu, 610041, China.
- Department of General Surgery, State Key Laboratory of Biotherapy and Cancer Center, Colorectal Cancer Center, West China Hospital, Sichuan University, Chengdu, 610041, People's Republic of China.
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20
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Li Z, Ma S, Zhang S, Ma Z, Du L, Li M. Degradation of extracellular and membrane proteins in targeted therapy: Status quo and quo vadis. Drug Discov Today 2023; 28:103716. [PMID: 37467880 DOI: 10.1016/j.drudis.2023.103716] [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: 02/19/2023] [Revised: 06/29/2023] [Accepted: 07/12/2023] [Indexed: 07/21/2023]
Abstract
Targeted protein degradation (TPD) strategies, such as proteolysis-targeting chimeras (PROTACs) only work for intracellular protein degradation because they involve the intracellular protein degradation machinery. Several new technologies have emerged in recent years for TPD of extracellular and membrane proteins. Even though some progress has been demonstrated in the extracellular and membrane protein degradation field, the application of these technologies is still in its infancy. In this review, we survey the therapeutic potential of existing technologies by summarizing and reviewing discoveries and hurdles in extracellular and membrane protein-of-interest (POI) degradation.
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Affiliation(s)
- Zhenzhen Li
- Department of Medicinal Chemistry, Key Laboratory of Chemical Biology (MOE), School of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Cheeloo College of Medicine, Shandong University, Jinan, Shandong 250012, China
| | - Siyue Ma
- Department of Medicinal Chemistry, Key Laboratory of Chemical Biology (MOE), School of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Cheeloo College of Medicine, Shandong University, Jinan, Shandong 250012, China
| | - Shuxin Zhang
- Department of Medicinal Chemistry, Key Laboratory of Chemical Biology (MOE), School of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Cheeloo College of Medicine, Shandong University, Jinan, Shandong 250012, China
| | - Zhao Ma
- Department of Medicinal Chemistry, Key Laboratory of Chemical Biology (MOE), School of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Cheeloo College of Medicine, Shandong University, Jinan, Shandong 250012, China
| | - Lupei Du
- Department of Medicinal Chemistry, Key Laboratory of Chemical Biology (MOE), School of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Cheeloo College of Medicine, Shandong University, Jinan, Shandong 250012, China.
| | - Minyong Li
- Department of Medicinal Chemistry, Key Laboratory of Chemical Biology (MOE), School of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Cheeloo College of Medicine, Shandong University, Jinan, Shandong 250012, China; Helmholtz International Lab, State Key Laboratory of Microbial Technology, Shandong University, Qingdao, Shandong 266237, China.
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21
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Teng M, Gray NS. The rise of degrader drugs. Cell Chem Biol 2023; 30:864-878. [PMID: 37494935 DOI: 10.1016/j.chembiol.2023.06.020] [Citation(s) in RCA: 14] [Impact Index Per Article: 14.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/30/2023] [Revised: 05/30/2023] [Accepted: 06/21/2023] [Indexed: 07/28/2023]
Abstract
The cancer genomics revolution has served up a plethora of promising and challenging targets for the drug discovery community. The field of targeted protein degradation (TPD) uses small molecules to reprogram the protein homeostasis system to destroy desired target proteins. In the last decade, remarkable progress has enabled the rational development of degraders for a large number of target proteins, with over 20 molecules targeting more than 12 proteins entering clinical development. While TPD has been fully credentialed by the prior development of immunomodulatory drug (IMiD) class for the treatment of multiple myeloma, the field is poised for a "Gleevec moment" in which robust clinical efficacy of a rationally developed novel degrader against a preselected target is firmly established. Here, we endeavor to provide a high-level evaluation of exciting developments in the field and comment on steps that may realize the full potential of this new therapeutic modality.
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Affiliation(s)
- Mingxing Teng
- Center for Drug Discovery, Department of Pathology & Immunology, and Department of Pharmacology and Chemical Biology, Baylor College of Medicine, Houston, TX 77030, USA.
| | - Nathanael S Gray
- Department of Chemical and Systems Biology, ChEM-H, Stanford Cancer Institute, School of Medicine, Stanford University, Stanford, CA 94305, USA.
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22
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Hartung IV, Rudolph J, Mader MM, Mulder MPC, Workman P. Expanding Chemical Probe Space: Quality Criteria for Covalent and Degrader Probes. J Med Chem 2023; 66:9297-9312. [PMID: 37403870 PMCID: PMC10388296 DOI: 10.1021/acs.jmedchem.3c00550] [Citation(s) in RCA: 19] [Impact Index Per Article: 19.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/28/2023] [Indexed: 07/06/2023]
Abstract
Within druggable target space, new small-molecule modalities, particularly covalent inhibitors and targeted degraders, have expanded the repertoire of medicinal chemists. Molecules with such modes of action have a large potential not only as drugs but also as chemical probes. Criteria have previously been established to describe the potency, selectivity, and properties of small-molecule probes that are qualified to enable the interrogation and validation of drug targets. These definitions have been tailored to reversibly acting modulators but fall short in their applicability to other modalities. While initial guidelines have been proposed, we delineate here a full set of criteria for the characterization of covalent, irreversible inhibitors as well as heterobifunctional degraders ("proteolysis-targeting chimeras", or PROTACs) and molecular glue degraders. We propose modified potency and selectivity criteria compared to those for reversible inhibitors. We discuss their relevance and highlight examples of suitable probe and pathfinder compounds.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ingo V. Hartung
- Medicinal
Chemistry, Global Research & Development, Merck Healthcare KGaA, 64293 Darmstadt, Germany
| | - Joachim Rudolph
- Discovery
Chemistry, Genentech, South San Francisco, California 94080, United States
| | - Mary M. Mader
- Molecular
Innovation, Indiana Biosciences Research
Institute, Indianapolis, Indiana 64202, United States
| | - Monique P. C. Mulder
- Department
of Cell and Chemical Biology, Leiden University
Medical Center, 2333 ZA Leiden, The Netherlands
| | - Paul Workman
- Centre
for Cancer Drug Discovery, The Institute
of Cancer Research, London, Sutton SM2 5NG, United Kingdom
- Chemical
Probes Portal, https://www.chemicalprobes.org/
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23
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Serebrenik YV, Mani D, Maujean T, Burslem GM, Shalem O. Pooled endogenous protein tagging and recruitment for scalable discovery of effectors for induced proximity therapeutics. BIORXIV : THE PREPRINT SERVER FOR BIOLOGY 2023:2023.07.13.548759. [PMID: 37503056 PMCID: PMC10369964 DOI: 10.1101/2023.07.13.548759] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 07/29/2023]
Abstract
The field of induced proximity therapeutics is in its ascendancy but is limited by a lack of scalable tools to systematically explore effector-target protein pairs in an unbiased manner. Here, we combined Scalable POoled Targeting with a LIgandable Tag at Endogenous Sites (SPOTLITES) for the high-throughput tagging of endogenous proteins, with generic small molecule-based protein recruitment to screen for novel proximity-based effectors. We apply this methodology in two orthogonal screens for targeted protein degradation: the first using fluorescence to monitor target protein levels directly, and the second using a cellular growth phenotype that depends on the degradation of an essential protein. Our screens revealed a multitude of potential new effector proteins for degradation and converged on members of the CTLH complex which we demonstrate potently induce degradation. Altogether, we introduce a platform for pooled induction of endogenous protein-protein interactions that can be used to expand our toolset of effector proteins for targeted protein degradation and other forms of induced proximity.
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24
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Mi D, Li Y, Gu H, Li Y, Chen Y. Current advances of small molecule E3 ligands for proteolysis-targeting chimeras design. Eur J Med Chem 2023; 256:115444. [PMID: 37178483 DOI: 10.1016/j.ejmech.2023.115444] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 11.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/29/2023] [Revised: 04/30/2023] [Accepted: 05/01/2023] [Indexed: 05/15/2023]
Abstract
Proteolysis-targeting chimeras (PROTACs) as an emerging drug discovery modality has been extensively concerned in recent years. Over 20 years development, accumulated studies have demonstrated that PROTACs show unique advantages over traditional therapy in operable target scope, efficacy, and overcoming drug resistance. However, only limited E3 ligases, the essential elements of PROTACs, have been harnessed for PROTACs design. The optimization of novel ligands for well-established E3 ligases and the employment of additional E3 ligases remain urgent challenges for investigators. Here, we systematically summarize the current status of E3 ligases and corresponding ligands for PROTACs design with a focus on their discovery history, design principles, application benefits, and potential defects. Meanwhile, the prospects and future directions for this field are briefly discussed.
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Affiliation(s)
- Dazhao Mi
- Shanghai Frontiers Science Center of Genome Editing and Cell Therapy, Shanghai Key Laboratory of Regulatory Biology, The Institute of Biomedical Sciences and School of Life Sciences, East China Normal University, Shanghai, 200241, China
| | - Yuzhan Li
- Shanghai Frontiers Science Center of Genome Editing and Cell Therapy, Shanghai Key Laboratory of Regulatory Biology, The Institute of Biomedical Sciences and School of Life Sciences, East China Normal University, Shanghai, 200241, China
| | - Haijun Gu
- Shanghai Frontiers Science Center of Genome Editing and Cell Therapy, Shanghai Key Laboratory of Regulatory Biology, The Institute of Biomedical Sciences and School of Life Sciences, East China Normal University, Shanghai, 200241, China
| | - Yan Li
- Shanghai Frontiers Science Center of Genome Editing and Cell Therapy, Shanghai Key Laboratory of Regulatory Biology, The Institute of Biomedical Sciences and School of Life Sciences, East China Normal University, Shanghai, 200241, China
| | - Yihua Chen
- Shanghai Frontiers Science Center of Genome Editing and Cell Therapy, Shanghai Key Laboratory of Regulatory Biology, The Institute of Biomedical Sciences and School of Life Sciences, East China Normal University, Shanghai, 200241, China.
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25
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Abstract
Our understanding of the ubiquitin code has greatly evolved from conventional E1, E2 and E3 enzymes that modify Lys residues on specific substrates with a single type of ubiquitin chain to more complex processes that regulate and mediate ubiquitylation. In this Review, we discuss recently discovered endogenous mechanisms and unprecedented pathways by which pathogens rewrite the ubiquitin code to promote infection. These processes include unconventional ubiquitin modifications involving ester linkages with proteins, lipids and sugars, or ubiquitylation through a phosphoribosyl bridge involving Arg42 of ubiquitin. We also introduce the enzymatic pathways that write and reverse these modifications, such as the papain-like proteases of severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus (SARS-CoV) and SARS-CoV-2. Furthermore, structural studies have revealed that the ultimate functions of ubiquitin are mediated not simply by straightforward recognition by ubiquitin-binding domains. Instead, elaborate multivalent interactions between ubiquitylated targets or ubiquitin chains and their readers (for example, the proteasome, the MLL1 complex or DOT1L) can elicit conformational changes that regulate protein degradation or transcription. The newly discovered mechanisms provide opportunities for innovative therapeutic interventions for diseases such as cancer and infectious diseases.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ivan Dikic
- Institute of Biochemistry II, Faculty of Medicine, Goethe University, Frankfurt, Germany.
- Buchmann Institute for Molecular Life Sciences, Goethe University, Frankfurt, Germany.
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Eliminating oncogenic RAS: back to the future at the drawing board. Biochem Soc Trans 2023; 51:447-456. [PMID: 36688434 PMCID: PMC9987992 DOI: 10.1042/bst20221343] [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: 11/30/2022] [Revised: 01/11/2023] [Accepted: 01/12/2023] [Indexed: 01/24/2023]
Abstract
RAS drug development has made enormous strides in the past ten years, with the first direct KRAS inhibitor being approved in 2021. However, despite the clinical success of covalent KRAS-G12C inhibitors, we are immediately confronted with resistances as commonly found with targeted drugs. Previously believed to be undruggable due to its lack of obvious druggable pockets, a couple of new approaches to hit this much feared oncogene have now been carved out. We here concisely review these approaches to directly target four druggable sites of RAS from various angles. Our analysis focuses on the lessons learnt during the development of allele-specific covalent and non-covalent RAS inhibitors, the potential of macromolecular binders to facilitate the discovery and validation of targetable sites on RAS and finally an outlook on a future that may engage more small molecule binders to become drugs. We foresee that the latter could happen mainly in two ways: First, non-covalent small molecule inhibitors may be derived from the development of covalent binders. Second, reversible small molecule binders could be utilized for novel targeting modalities, such as degraders of RAS. Provided that degraders eliminate RAS by recruiting differentially expressed E3-ligases, this approach could enable unprecedented tissue- or developmental stage-specific destruction of RAS with potential advantages for on-target toxicity. We conclude that novel creative ideas continue to be important to exterminate RAS in cancer and other RAS pathway-driven diseases, such as RASopathies.
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Xu D, Yu J, Yang Y, Du Y, Lu H, Zhang S, Feng Q, Yu Y, Hao L, Shao J, Chen L. RBX1 regulates PKM alternative splicing to facilitate anaplastic thyroid carcinoma metastasis and aerobic glycolysis by destroying the SMAR1/HDAC6 complex. Cell Biosci 2023; 13:36. [PMID: 36810109 PMCID: PMC9945352 DOI: 10.1186/s13578-023-00987-8] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/19/2022] [Accepted: 02/14/2023] [Indexed: 02/23/2023] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Anaplastic thyroid carcinoma (ATC) is one of the most aggressive malignancies, frequently accompanied by metastasis and aerobic glycolysis. Cancer cells adjust their metabolism by modulating the PKM alternative splicing and facilitating PKM2 isoform expression. Therefore, identifying factors and mechanisms that control PKM alternative splicing is significant for overcoming the current challenges in ATC treatment. RESULTS In this study, the expression of RBX1 was largely enhanced in the ATC tissues. Our clinical tests suggested that high RBX1 expression was significantly related to poor survival. The functional analysis indicated that RBX1 facilitated the metastasis of ATC cells by enhancing the Warburg effect, and PKM2 played a key role in RBX1-mediated aerobic glycolysis. Furthermore, we confirmed that RBX1 regulates PKM alternative splicing and promotes the PKM2-mediated Warburg effect in ATC cells. Moreover, ATC cell migration and aerobic glycolysis induced by RBX1-mediated PKM alternative splicing are dependent on the destruction of the SMAR1/HDAC6 complex. RBX1, as an E3 ubiquitin ligase, degrades SMAR1 in ATC through the ubiquitin-proteasome pathway. CONCLUSION Overall, our study identified the mechanism underlying the regulation of PKM alternative splicing in ATC cells for the first time and provides evidence about the effect of RBX1 on cellular adaptation to metabolic stress.
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Affiliation(s)
- Debin Xu
- grid.412455.30000 0004 1756 5980Department of Thyroid Surgery, Second Affiliated Hospital of Nanchang University, No. 1 Minde Road, Nanchang, 330008 China
| | - Jichun Yu
- grid.412455.30000 0004 1756 5980Department of Thyroid Surgery, Second Affiliated Hospital of Nanchang University, No. 1 Minde Road, Nanchang, 330008 China
| | - Yuting Yang
- grid.412604.50000 0004 1758 4073Department of Intensive Care Unit, First Affiliated Hospital of Nanchang University, No. 17, Yongwai Main Street, Nanchang, 330006 China
| | - Yunyan Du
- grid.260463.50000 0001 2182 8825School of Pharmacy, Nanchang University, No. 471, Bayi Road, Nanchang, 330006 China
| | - Hongcheng Lu
- grid.412455.30000 0004 1756 5980Department of General Surgery, Second Affiliated Hospital of Nanchang University, No. 1 Minde Road, Nanchang, 330008 China
| | - Shouhua Zhang
- grid.260463.50000 0001 2182 8825Department of General Surgery, Affiliated Children’s Hospital of Nanchang University, No. 122, Yangming Road, Nanchang, 330006 China
| | - Qian Feng
- grid.412455.30000 0004 1756 5980Department of General Surgery, Second Affiliated Hospital of Nanchang University, No. 1 Minde Road, Nanchang, 330008 China
| | - Yi Yu
- Department of Urology, Second Affiliated Hospital of Nanchang University, No. 1 Minde Road, Nanchang, 330008, China.
| | - Liang Hao
- Department of Orthopaedics, Second Affiliated Hospital of Nanchang University, No. 1 Minde Road, Nanchang, 330008, China.
| | - Jun Shao
- Department of Cardiovascular Surgery, Second Affiliated Hospital of Nanchang University, No. 1 Minde Road, Nanchang, 330008, China.
| | - Leifeng Chen
- Department of General Surgery, Second Affiliated Hospital of Nanchang University, No. 1 Minde Road, Nanchang, 330008, China. .,Cancer Center, Renmin Hospital of Wuhan University, No. 238 Jiefang Road, Wuhan, 430060, China.
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28
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Belcher BP, Ward CC, Nomura DK. Ligandability of E3 Ligases for Targeted Protein Degradation Applications. Biochemistry 2023; 62:588-600. [PMID: 34473924 PMCID: PMC8928483 DOI: 10.1021/acs.biochem.1c00464] [Citation(s) in RCA: 42] [Impact Index Per Article: 42.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 02/08/2023]
Abstract
Targeted protein degradation (TPD) using proteolysis targeting chimeras (PROTACs) and molecular glue degraders has arisen as a powerful therapeutic modality for eliminating disease-causing proteins from cells. PROTACs and molecular glue degraders employ heterobifunctional or monovalent small molecules, respectively, to chemically induce the proximity of target proteins with E3 ubiquitin ligases to ubiquitinate and degrade specific proteins via the proteasome. Whereas TPD is an attractive therapeutic strategy for expanding the druggable proteome, only a relatively small number of E3 ligases out of the >600 E3 ligases encoded by the human genome have been exploited by small molecules for TPD applications. Here we review the existing E3 ligases that have thus far been successfully exploited for TPD and discuss chemoproteomics-enabled covalent screening strategies for discovering new E3 ligase recruiters. We also provide a chemoproteomic map of reactive cysteines within hundreds of E3 ligases that may represent potential ligandable sites that can be pharmacologically interrogated to uncover additional E3 ligase recruiters.
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Affiliation(s)
- Bridget P. Belcher
- Department of Chemistry, University of California, Berkeley, Berkeley, CA 94720 USA,Novartis-Berkeley Center for Proteomics and Chemistry Technologies, Berkeley, CA 94720,Innovative Genomics Institute, Berkeley, CA 94720 USA
| | - Carl C. Ward
- Department of Chemistry, University of California, Berkeley, Berkeley, CA 94720 USA,Novartis-Berkeley Center for Proteomics and Chemistry Technologies, Berkeley, CA 94720,Innovative Genomics Institute, Berkeley, CA 94720 USA,Department of Molecular and Cell Biology, University of California, Berkeley, Berkeley, CA 94720 USA
| | - Daniel K. Nomura
- Department of Chemistry, University of California, Berkeley, Berkeley, CA 94720 USA,Novartis-Berkeley Center for Proteomics and Chemistry Technologies, Berkeley, CA 94720,Innovative Genomics Institute, Berkeley, CA 94720 USA,Department of Molecular and Cell Biology, University of California, Berkeley, Berkeley, CA 94720 USA,correspondence to
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29
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Sondermann NC, Faßbender S, Hartung F, Hätälä AM, Rolfes KM, Vogel CFA, Haarmann-Stemmann T. Functions of the aryl hydrocarbon receptor (AHR) beyond the canonical AHR/ARNT signaling pathway. Biochem Pharmacol 2023; 208:115371. [PMID: 36528068 PMCID: PMC9884176 DOI: 10.1016/j.bcp.2022.115371] [Citation(s) in RCA: 25] [Impact Index Per Article: 25.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/01/2022] [Revised: 11/28/2022] [Accepted: 11/29/2022] [Indexed: 12/23/2022]
Abstract
The aryl hydrocarbon receptor (AHR) is a ligand-dependent transcription factor regulating adaptive and maladaptive responses toward exogenous and endogenous signals. Research from various biomedical disciplines has provided compelling evidence that the AHR is critically involved in the pathogenesis of a variety of diseases and disorders, including autoimmunity, inflammatory diseases, endocrine disruption, premature aging and cancer. Accordingly, AHR is considered an attractive target for the development of novel preventive and therapeutic measures. However, the ligand-based targeting of AHR is considerably complicated by the fact that the receptor does not always follow the beaten track, i.e. the canonical AHR/ARNT signaling pathway. Instead, AHR might team up with other transcription factors and signaling molecules to shape gene expression patterns and associated physiological or pathophysiological functions in a ligand-, cell- and micromilieu-dependent manner. Herein, we provide an overview about some of the most important non-canonical functions of AHR, including crosstalk with major signaling pathways involved in controlling cell fate and function, immune responses, adaptation to low oxygen levels and oxidative stress, ubiquitination and proteasomal degradation. Further research on these diverse and exciting yet often ambivalent facets of AHR biology is urgently needed in order to exploit the full potential of AHR modulation for disease prevention and treatment.
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Affiliation(s)
- Natalie C Sondermann
- IUF - Leibniz Research Institute for Environmental Medicine, 40225 Düsseldorf, Germany
| | - Sonja Faßbender
- IUF - Leibniz Research Institute for Environmental Medicine, 40225 Düsseldorf, Germany
| | - Frederick Hartung
- IUF - Leibniz Research Institute for Environmental Medicine, 40225 Düsseldorf, Germany
| | - Anna M Hätälä
- IUF - Leibniz Research Institute for Environmental Medicine, 40225 Düsseldorf, Germany
| | - Katharina M Rolfes
- IUF - Leibniz Research Institute for Environmental Medicine, 40225 Düsseldorf, Germany
| | - Christoph F A Vogel
- Department of Environmental Toxicology and Center for Health and the Environment, University of California, Davis, CA 95616, USA
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30
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Banerjee S, Sharma S, Thakur A, Sachdeva R, Sharma R, Nepali K, Liou JP. N-Heterocycle based Degraders (PROTACs) Manifesting Anticancer Efficacy: Recent Advances. Curr Drug Targets 2023; 24:1184-1208. [PMID: 37946353 DOI: 10.2174/0113894501273969231102095615] [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: 07/25/2023] [Revised: 10/06/2023] [Accepted: 10/16/2023] [Indexed: 11/12/2023]
Abstract
Proteolysis Targeting Chimeras (PROTACs) technology has emerged as a promising strategy for the treatment of undruggable therapeutic targets. Researchers have invested a great effort in developing druggable PROTACs; however, the problems associated with PROTACs, including poor solubility, metabolic stability, cell permeability, and pharmacokinetic profile, restrict their clinical utility. Thus, there is a pressing need to expand the size of the armory of PROTACs which will escalate the chances of pinpointing new PROTACs with optimum pharmacokinetic and pharmacodynamics properties. N- heterocycle is a class of organic frameworks that have been widely explored to construct new and novel PROTACs. This review provides an overview of recent efforts of medicinal chemists to develop N-heterocycle-based PROTACs as effective cancer therapeutics. Specifically, the recent endeavors centred on the discovery of PROTACs have been delved into various classes based on the E3 ligase they target (MDM2, IAP, CRBN, and other E3 ligases). Mechanistic insights revealed during the biological assessment of recently furnished Nheterocyclic- based PROTACs constructed via the utilization of ligands for various E3 ligases have been discussed.
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Affiliation(s)
- Suddhasatwa Banerjee
- School of Pharmacy, College of Pharmacy, Taipei Medical University, Taipei, 110031, Taiwan
| | - Sachin Sharma
- School of Pharmacy, College of Pharmacy, Taipei Medical University, Taipei, 110031, Taiwan
| | - Amandeep Thakur
- School of Pharmacy, College of Pharmacy, Taipei Medical University, Taipei, 110031, Taiwan
| | - Ritika Sachdeva
- College of Medicine, Taipei Medical University, Taipei, 110031, Taiwan
| | - Ram Sharma
- School of Pharmacy, College of Pharmacy, Taipei Medical University, Taipei, 110031, Taiwan
| | - Kunal Nepali
- School of Pharmacy, College of Pharmacy, Taipei Medical University, Taipei, 110031, Taiwan
- Ph.D. Program in Drug Discovery and Development Industry, College of Pharmacy, Taipei Medical University, Taipei, Taiwan
| | - Jing Ping Liou
- School of Pharmacy, College of Pharmacy, Taipei Medical University, Taipei, 110031, Taiwan
- Ph.D. Program in Drug Discovery and Development Industry, College of Pharmacy, Taipei Medical University, Taipei, Taiwan
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31
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Palomba T, Baroni M, Cross S, Cruciani G, Siragusa L. ELIOT: A platform to navigate the E3 pocketome and aid the design of new PROTACs. Chem Biol Drug Des 2023; 101:69-86. [PMID: 35857806 DOI: 10.1111/cbdd.14123] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/09/2022] [Revised: 07/11/2022] [Accepted: 07/17/2022] [Indexed: 12/15/2022]
Abstract
Proteolysis-targeting chimeras (PROTACs) are novel therapeutics for the treatment of human disease. They exploit the enormous potential of the E3 ligases, a class of proteins that mark a target protein for degradation via the ubiquitin-proteasome system. Despite the existence of several E3 ligase-related databases, the choice of the functioning ligase is limited to only 1.6% of those available, probably due to the fragmentary understanding of their structures and their known ligands; in fact, none of the existing databases report detailed studies covering their 3D structure or their pockets. Here, we report ELIOT (E3 LIgase pocketOme navigaTor), an accurate and complete platform containing the E3 ligase pocketome to enable navigation and selection of new E3 ligases and new ligands for the design of new PROTACs. All E3 ligase pockets were characterized with innovative 3D descriptors including their PROTAC-ability score, and similarity analyses between E3 pockets are presented. Tissue specificity and their degree of involvement in patients with specific cancer types are also annotated for each E3 ligase, enabling appropriate selection for the design of a PROTAC with improved specificity. All data are available at https://eliot.moldiscovery.com.
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Affiliation(s)
- Tommaso Palomba
- Laboratory for Chemometrics and Molecular Modeling, Department of Chemistry, Biology, and Biotechnology, University of Perugia, Perugia, Italy
| | - Massimo Baroni
- Molecular Discovery Ltd., The Kinetic Centre, Hertfordshire, UK
| | - Simon Cross
- Molecular Discovery Ltd., The Kinetic Centre, Hertfordshire, UK
| | - Gabriele Cruciani
- Laboratory for Chemometrics and Molecular Modeling, Department of Chemistry, Biology, and Biotechnology, University of Perugia, Perugia, Italy
| | - Lydia Siragusa
- Molecular Discovery Ltd., The Kinetic Centre, Hertfordshire, UK.,Molecular Horizon Srl, Bettona, Italy
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32
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Koroleva OA, Dutikova YV, Trubnikov AV, Zenov FA, Manasova EV, Shtil AA, Kurkin AV. PROTAC: targeted drug strategy. Principles and limitations. Russ Chem Bull 2022; 71:2310-2334. [PMID: 36569659 PMCID: PMC9762658 DOI: 10.1007/s11172-022-3659-z] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/15/2022] [Revised: 06/08/2022] [Accepted: 06/20/2022] [Indexed: 12/23/2022]
Abstract
The PROTAC (PROteolysis TArgeting Chimera) technology is a method of targeting intracellular proteins previously considered undruggable. This technology utilizes the ubiquitin-proteasome system in cells to specifically degrade target proteins, thereby offering significant advantages over conventional small-molecule inhibitors of the enzymatic function. Preclinical and preliminary clinical trials of PROTAC-based compounds (degraders) are presented. The review considers the general principles of the design of degraders. Advances and challenges of the PROTAC technology are discussed.
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Affiliation(s)
- O. A. Koroleva
- Department of Chemistry, Lomonosov Moscow State University, Build. 3, 1 Leninskie Gory, 119991 Moscow, Russian Federation
| | - Yu. V. Dutikova
- Patent & Law Firm “A. Zalesov and Partners”, Build. 9, 2 ul. Marshala Rybalko, 123060 Moscow, Russian Federation
| | - A. V. Trubnikov
- Department of Chemistry, Lomonosov Moscow State University, Build. 3, 1 Leninskie Gory, 119991 Moscow, Russian Federation
| | - F. A. Zenov
- Department of Chemistry, Lomonosov Moscow State University, Build. 3, 1 Leninskie Gory, 119991 Moscow, Russian Federation
| | - E. V. Manasova
- Department of Chemistry, Lomonosov Moscow State University, Build. 3, 1 Leninskie Gory, 119991 Moscow, Russian Federation
| | - A. A. Shtil
- Department of Chemistry, Lomonosov Moscow State University, Build. 3, 1 Leninskie Gory, 119991 Moscow, Russian Federation
- N. N. Blokhin National Medical Research Center of Oncology, Ministry of Health of the Russian Federation, Build. 15, 24 Kashirskoe shosse, 115478 Moscow, Russian Federation
| | - A. V. Kurkin
- Department of Chemistry, Lomonosov Moscow State University, Build. 3, 1 Leninskie Gory, 119991 Moscow, Russian Federation
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33
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Sachkova AA, Andreeva DV, Tikhomirov AS, Scherbakov AM, Salnikova DI, Sorokin DV, Bogdanov FB, Rysina YD, Shchekotikhin AE, Shchegravina ES, Fedorov AY. Design, Synthesis and In Vitro Investigation of Cabozantinib-Based PROTACs to Target c-Met Kinase. Pharmaceutics 2022; 14:pharmaceutics14122829. [PMID: 36559322 PMCID: PMC9781691 DOI: 10.3390/pharmaceutics14122829] [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: 11/08/2022] [Revised: 12/08/2022] [Accepted: 12/12/2022] [Indexed: 12/23/2022] Open
Abstract
(1) Background: This investigation aimed at developing a series of c-Met-targeting cabozantinib-based PROTACs. (2) Methods: Purification of intermediate and target compounds was performed using column chromatography, in vitro antiproliferation activity was measured using a standard MTT assay and a c-Met degradation assay was performed via the immunoblotting technique. (3) Results: Several compounds exhibited antiproliferative activity towards different cell lines of breast cancer (T47D, MDA-MB-231, SKBR3, HCC1954 and MCF7) at the same level as parent cabozantinib and 7-demethyl cabozantinib. Two target conjugates, bearing a VHL-ligand as an E3-ligase binding moiety and glycol-based linkers, exhibited the effective inhibition of c-Met phosphorylation and an ability to decrease the level of c-Met in HCC1954 cells at micromolar concentrations. (4) Conclusions: Two compounds exhibit c-Met inhibition activity in the nanomolar range and can be considered as PROTAC molecules due to their ability to decrease the total level of c-Met in HCC1954 cells. The structures of the offered compounds can be used as starting points for further evaluation of cabozantinib-based PROTACs.
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Affiliation(s)
- Anastasia A. Sachkova
- Department of Organic Chemistry, Nizhny Novgorod State University, Gagarina Av. 23, 603950 Nizhny Novgorod, Russia
| | - Daria V. Andreeva
- Gause Institute of New Antibiotics, 11 B. Pirogovskaya Street, 119021 Moscow, Russia
| | | | - Alexander M. Scherbakov
- Department of Experimental Tumor Biology, Blokhin N.N. National Medical Research Center of Oncology, 115522 Moscow, Russia
| | - Diana I. Salnikova
- Department of Experimental Tumor Biology, Blokhin N.N. National Medical Research Center of Oncology, 115522 Moscow, Russia
| | - Danila V. Sorokin
- Department of Experimental Tumor Biology, Blokhin N.N. National Medical Research Center of Oncology, 115522 Moscow, Russia
| | - Fedor B. Bogdanov
- Department of Experimental Tumor Biology, Blokhin N.N. National Medical Research Center of Oncology, 115522 Moscow, Russia
- Faculty of Fundamental Medicine, Moscow State University, 119991 Moscow, Russia
| | - Yulia D. Rysina
- Department of Organic Chemistry, Nizhny Novgorod State University, Gagarina Av. 23, 603950 Nizhny Novgorod, Russia
| | | | - Ekaterina S. Shchegravina
- Department of Organic Chemistry, Nizhny Novgorod State University, Gagarina Av. 23, 603950 Nizhny Novgorod, Russia
- Correspondence: (E.S.S.); (A.Y.F.); Tel.: +7-906-359-74-49 (E.S.S.)
| | - Alexey Yu. Fedorov
- Department of Organic Chemistry, Nizhny Novgorod State University, Gagarina Av. 23, 603950 Nizhny Novgorod, Russia
- Correspondence: (E.S.S.); (A.Y.F.); Tel.: +7-906-359-74-49 (E.S.S.)
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34
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Tomaskovic I, Gonzalez A, Dikic I. Ubiquitin and Legionella: From bench to bedside. Semin Cell Dev Biol 2022; 132:230-241. [PMID: 35177348 DOI: 10.1016/j.semcdb.2022.02.008] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/21/2021] [Revised: 02/02/2022] [Accepted: 02/07/2022] [Indexed: 12/15/2022]
Abstract
Legionella pneumophila, a Gram-negative intracellular bacterium, is one of the major causes of Legionnaires' disease, a specific type of atypical pneumonia. Despite intensive research efforts that elucidated many relevant structural, molecular and medical insights into Legionella's pathogenicity, Legionnaires' disease continues to present an ongoing public health concern. Legionella's virulence is based on its ability to simultaneously hijack multiple molecular pathways of the host cell to ensure its fast replication and dissemination. Legionella usurps the host ubiquitin system through multiple effector proteins, using the advantage of both conventional and unconventional (phosphoribosyl-linked) ubiquitination, thus providing optimal conditions for its replication. In this review, we summarize the current understanding of L. pneumophila from medical, biochemical and molecular perspectives. We describe the clinical disease presentation, its diagnostics and treatment, as well as host-pathogen interactions, with the emphasis on the ability of Legionella to target the host ubiquitin system upon infection. Furthermore, the interdisciplinary use of innovative technologies enables better insights into the pathogenesis of Legionnaires' disease and provides new opportunities for its treatment and prevention.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ines Tomaskovic
- Institute of Biochemistry II, Goethe University School of Medicine, Theodor-Stern-Kai 7, 60590 Frankfurt am Main, Germany
| | - Alexis Gonzalez
- Institute of Biochemistry II, Goethe University School of Medicine, Theodor-Stern-Kai 7, 60590 Frankfurt am Main, Germany
| | - Ivan Dikic
- Institute of Biochemistry II, Goethe University School of Medicine, Theodor-Stern-Kai 7, 60590 Frankfurt am Main, Germany; Buchmann Institute for Molecular Life Sciences, Goethe University Frankfurt, Riedberg Campus, Max-von-Laue Straße 15, 60438 Frankfurt am Main, Germany.
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35
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Exploiting ELIOT for Scaffold-Repurposing Opportunities: TRIM33 a Possible Novel E3 Ligase to Expand the Toolbox for PROTAC Design. Int J Mol Sci 2022; 23:ijms232214218. [PMID: 36430693 PMCID: PMC9698485 DOI: 10.3390/ijms232214218] [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: 10/26/2022] [Revised: 11/11/2022] [Accepted: 11/15/2022] [Indexed: 11/19/2022] Open
Abstract
The field of targeted protein degradation, through the control of the ubiquitin-proteasome system (UPS), is progressing considerably; to exploit this new therapeutic modality, the proteolysis targeting chimera (PROTAC) technology was born. The opportunity to use PROTACs engaging of new E3 ligases that can hijack and control the UPS system could greatly extend the applicability of degrading molecules. To this end, here we show a potential application of the ELIOT (E3 LIgase pocketOme navigaTor) platform, previously published by this group, for a scaffold-repurposing strategy to identify new ligands for a novel E3 ligase, such as TRIM33. Starting from ELIOT, a case study of the cross-relationship using GRID Molecular Interaction Field (MIF) similarities between TRIM24 and TRIM33 binding sites was selected. Based on the assumption that similar pockets could bind similar ligands and considering that TRIM24 has 12 known co-crystalised ligands, we applied a scaffold-repurposing strategy for the identification of TRIM33 ligands exploiting the scaffold of TRIM24 ligands. We performed a deeper computational analysis to identify pocket similarities and differences, followed by docking and water analysis; selected ligands were synthesised and subsequently tested against TRIM33 via HTRF binding assay, and we obtained the first-ever X-ray crystallographic complexes of TRIM33α with three of the selected compounds.
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36
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Li J, Cai Z, Li XW, Zhuang C. Natural Product-Inspired Targeted Protein Degraders: Advances and Perspectives. J Med Chem 2022; 65:13533-13560. [PMID: 36205223 DOI: 10.1021/acs.jmedchem.2c01223] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/30/2022]
Abstract
Targeted protein degradation (TPD), a promising therapeutic strategy in drug discovery, has great potential to regulate the endogenous degradation of undruggable targets with small molecules. As vital resources that provide diverse structural templates for drug discovery, natural products (NPs) are a rising and robust arsenal for the development of therapeutic TPD. The first proof-of-concept study of proteolysis-targeting chimeras (PROTACs) was a natural polyketide ovalicin-derived degrader; since then, NPs have shown great potential to promote TPD technology. The use of NP-inspired targeted protein degraders has been confirmed to be a promising strategy to treat many human conditions, including cancer, inflammation, and nonalcoholic fatty liver disease. Nevertheless, the development of NP-inspired degraders is challenging, and the field is currently in its infancy. In this review, we summarize the bioactivities and mechanisms of NP-inspired degraders and discuss the associated challenges and future opportunities in this field.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jiao Li
- Clinical Medicine Scientific and Technical Innovation Center, Shanghai Tenth People's Hospital, Tongji University School of Medicine, Shanghai 200072, China.,School of Pharmacy, Second Military Medical University, Shanghai 200433, China
| | - Zhenyu Cai
- Tongji University Cancer Center, Shanghai Tenth People's Hospital, School of Medicine, Tongji University, Shanghai 200092, China
| | - Xu-Wen Li
- State Key Laboratory of Drug Research, Shanghai Institute of Materia Medica, Chinese Academy of Sciences, 555 Zu Chong Zhi Road, Zhangjiang Hi-Tech Park, Shanghai 201203, China.,Shandong Laboratory of Yantai Drug Discovery, Bohai Rim Advanced Research Institute for Drug Discovery, Yantai, Shandong 264117, China
| | - Chunlin Zhuang
- Clinical Medicine Scientific and Technical Innovation Center, Shanghai Tenth People's Hospital, Tongji University School of Medicine, Shanghai 200072, China.,School of Pharmacy, Second Military Medical University, Shanghai 200433, China
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Localization matters in targeted protein degradation. Cell Chem Biol 2022; 29:1465-1466. [DOI: 10.1016/j.chembiol.2022.09.006] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/24/2022]
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Zhu S, Liu J, Xiao D, Wang P, Ma J, Hu X, Fu J, Zhou Y, Li J, Lu W. Design, synthesis, and biological evaluation of Wee1 kinase degraders. Eur J Med Chem 2022; 243:114786. [PMID: 36170799 DOI: 10.1016/j.ejmech.2022.114786] [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: 07/14/2022] [Revised: 09/16/2022] [Accepted: 09/17/2022] [Indexed: 11/03/2022]
Abstract
Proteolysis targeting chimera (PROTAC) technology has received widespread attention in recent years as a promising strategy for drug development. Herein, we report a series of novel Wee1 degraders, which were designed and synthesized based on PROTAC technology by linking AZD1775 with CRBN ligands through linkers of different lengths and types. All degraders could effectively and completely degrade cellular Wee1 protein in MV-4-11 cell line at IC50 concentrations. Preliminary assessments identified 42a as the most active degrader, which possessed potent antiproliferative activity and induced CRBN- and proteasome-dependent degradation of Wee1. Moreover, 42a also exhibited a time- and concentration-dependent depletion manner and inducing cell cycle arrest in G0/G1 phase and cancer cell apoptosis. More importantly, 42a showed acceptable in vitro and in vivo pharmacokinetic properties and displayed rapid and sustained Wee1 degradation ability in vivo. Taken together, these findings contribute to understanding the development of PROTACs and demonstrate that our Wee1-targeting PROTAC strategy has potential novel applications in cancer therapy.
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Affiliation(s)
- Shulei Zhu
- Shanghai Engineering Research Center of Molecular Therapeutics and New Drug Development, School of Chemistry and Molecular Engineering, East China Normal University, 3663 North Zhongshan Road, Shanghai, 200062, PR China
| | - Jieyu Liu
- National Center for Drug Screening, State Key Laboratory of Drug Research, Shanghai Institute of Materia Medica, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Shanghai, 201203, PR China; University of Chinese Academy of Sciences, No. 19A Yuquan Road, Beijing, 100049, PR China
| | - Donghuai Xiao
- Shanghai Engineering Research Center of Molecular Therapeutics and New Drug Development, School of Chemistry and Molecular Engineering, East China Normal University, 3663 North Zhongshan Road, Shanghai, 200062, PR China
| | - Peipei Wang
- National Center for Drug Screening, State Key Laboratory of Drug Research, Shanghai Institute of Materia Medica, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Shanghai, 201203, PR China; University of Chinese Academy of Sciences, No. 19A Yuquan Road, Beijing, 100049, PR China; School of Chinese Materia Medica, Nanjing University of Chinese Medicine, Nanjing, 210023, PR China
| | - Jingkun Ma
- National Center for Drug Screening, State Key Laboratory of Drug Research, Shanghai Institute of Materia Medica, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Shanghai, 201203, PR China; University of Chinese Academy of Sciences, No. 19A Yuquan Road, Beijing, 100049, PR China
| | - Xiaobei Hu
- National Center for Drug Screening, State Key Laboratory of Drug Research, Shanghai Institute of Materia Medica, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Shanghai, 201203, PR China; University of Chinese Academy of Sciences, No. 19A Yuquan Road, Beijing, 100049, PR China; Zhongshan Institute for Drug Discovery, Shanghai Institute of Materia Medica, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Zhongshan, 528400, PR China
| | - Jingfeng Fu
- National Center for Drug Screening, State Key Laboratory of Drug Research, Shanghai Institute of Materia Medica, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Shanghai, 201203, PR China; University of Chinese Academy of Sciences, No. 19A Yuquan Road, Beijing, 100049, PR China
| | - Yubo Zhou
- National Center for Drug Screening, State Key Laboratory of Drug Research, Shanghai Institute of Materia Medica, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Shanghai, 201203, PR China; University of Chinese Academy of Sciences, No. 19A Yuquan Road, Beijing, 100049, PR China; Zhongshan Institute for Drug Discovery, Shanghai Institute of Materia Medica, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Zhongshan, 528400, PR China; School of Chinese Materia Medica, Nanjing University of Chinese Medicine, Nanjing, 210023, PR China.
| | - Jia Li
- National Center for Drug Screening, State Key Laboratory of Drug Research, Shanghai Institute of Materia Medica, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Shanghai, 201203, PR China; University of Chinese Academy of Sciences, No. 19A Yuquan Road, Beijing, 100049, PR China; Zhongshan Institute for Drug Discovery, Shanghai Institute of Materia Medica, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Zhongshan, 528400, PR China; School of Chinese Materia Medica, Nanjing University of Chinese Medicine, Nanjing, 210023, PR China.
| | - Wei Lu
- Shanghai Engineering Research Center of Molecular Therapeutics and New Drug Development, School of Chemistry and Molecular Engineering, East China Normal University, 3663 North Zhongshan Road, Shanghai, 200062, PR China.
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Marei H, Tsai WTK, Kee YS, Ruiz K, He J, Cox C, Sun T, Penikalapati S, Dwivedi P, Choi M, Kan D, Saenz-Lopez P, Dorighi K, Zhang P, Kschonsak YT, Kljavin N, Amin D, Kim I, Mancini AG, Nguyen T, Wang C, Janezic E, Doan A, Mai E, Xi H, Gu C, Heinlein M, Biehs B, Wu J, Lehoux I, Harris S, Comps-Agrar L, Seshasayee D, de Sauvage FJ, Grimmer M, Li J, Agard NJ, de Sousa E Melo F. Antibody targeting of E3 ubiquitin ligases for receptor degradation. Nature 2022; 610:182-189. [PMID: 36131013 PMCID: PMC9534761 DOI: 10.1038/s41586-022-05235-6] [Citation(s) in RCA: 70] [Impact Index Per Article: 35.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/03/2021] [Accepted: 08/12/2022] [Indexed: 12/31/2022]
Abstract
Most current therapies that target plasma membrane receptors function by antagonizing ligand binding or enzymatic activities. However, typical mammalian proteins comprise multiple domains that execute discrete but coordinated activities. Thus, inhibition of one domain often incompletely suppresses the function of a protein. Indeed, targeted protein degradation technologies, including proteolysis-targeting chimeras1 (PROTACs), have highlighted clinically important advantages of target degradation over inhibition2. However, the generation of heterobifunctional compounds binding to two targets with high affinity is complex, particularly when oral bioavailability is required3. Here we describe the development of proteolysis-targeting antibodies (PROTABs) that tether cell-surface E3 ubiquitin ligases to transmembrane proteins, resulting in target degradation both in vitro and in vivo. Focusing on zinc- and ring finger 3 (ZNRF3), a Wnt-responsive ligase, we show that this approach can enable colorectal cancer-specific degradation. Notably, by examining a matrix of additional cell-surface E3 ubiquitin ligases and transmembrane receptors, we demonstrate that this technology is amendable for ‘on-demand’ degradation. Furthermore, we offer insights on the ground rules governing target degradation by engineering optimized antibody formats. In summary, this work describes a strategy for the rapid development of potent, bioavailable and tissue-selective degraders of cell-surface proteins. Membrane-bound E3 ubiquitin ligases RNF43 and ZNRF3 are overexpressed in colorectal cancer, and can be repurposed using proteolysis-targeting antibodies (PROTABs) to selectively degrade cell-surface receptors in tumours.
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Affiliation(s)
- Hadir Marei
- Discovery Oncology, Genentech, South San Francisco, CA, USA
| | - Wen-Ting K Tsai
- Antibody Engineering, Genentech, South San Francisco, CA, USA
| | - Yee-Seir Kee
- Antibody Engineering, Genentech, South San Francisco, CA, USA
| | - Karen Ruiz
- Discovery Oncology, Genentech, South San Francisco, CA, USA
| | - Jieyan He
- Biochemical and Cellular Pharmacology, Genentech, South San Francisco, CA, USA
| | - Chris Cox
- Discovery Immunology, Genentech Inc, South San Francisco, CA, USA
| | - Tao Sun
- Molecular Biology, Genentech, South San Francisco, CA, USA
| | - Sai Penikalapati
- Microchemistry, Proteomics and Lipidomics, Genentech, South San Francisco, CA, USA
| | - Pankaj Dwivedi
- Microchemistry, Proteomics and Lipidomics, Genentech, South San Francisco, CA, USA
| | - Meena Choi
- Microchemistry, Proteomics and Lipidomics, Genentech, South San Francisco, CA, USA
| | - David Kan
- Translational Oncology, Genentech, South San Francisco, CA, USA
| | | | | | - Pamela Zhang
- Antibody Engineering, Genentech, South San Francisco, CA, USA
| | | | - Noelyn Kljavin
- Molecular Oncology, Genentech, South San Francisco, CA, USA
| | - Dhara Amin
- Discovery Oncology, Genentech, South San Francisco, CA, USA
| | - Ingrid Kim
- Antibody Engineering, Genentech, South San Francisco, CA, USA
| | | | - Thao Nguyen
- Molecular Oncology, Genentech, South San Francisco, CA, USA
| | - Chunling Wang
- Discovery Oncology, Genentech, South San Francisco, CA, USA
| | - Eric Janezic
- Biochemical and Cellular Pharmacology, Genentech, South San Francisco, CA, USA
| | - Alexander Doan
- Biochemical and Cellular Pharmacology, Genentech, South San Francisco, CA, USA
| | - Elaine Mai
- Biochemical and Cellular Pharmacology, Genentech, South San Francisco, CA, USA
| | - Hongkang Xi
- Antibody discovery, Genentech, South San Francisco, CA, USA
| | - Chen Gu
- Protein Chemistry, Genentech, South San Francisco, CA, USA
| | | | - Brian Biehs
- Molecular Oncology, Genentech, South San Francisco, CA, USA
| | - Jia Wu
- Antibody discovery, Genentech, South San Francisco, CA, USA
| | - Isabelle Lehoux
- Biomolecular Resources, Genentech, South San Francisco, CA, USA
| | - Seth Harris
- Structural Biology, Genentech, South San Francisco, CA, USA
| | | | | | | | | | - Jing Li
- Biochemical and Cellular Pharmacology, Genentech, South San Francisco, CA, USA
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Recent Advances in PROTACs for Drug Targeted Protein Research. Int J Mol Sci 2022; 23:ijms231810328. [PMID: 36142231 PMCID: PMC9499226 DOI: 10.3390/ijms231810328] [Citation(s) in RCA: 25] [Impact Index Per Article: 12.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/01/2022] [Revised: 09/04/2022] [Accepted: 09/05/2022] [Indexed: 01/30/2023] Open
Abstract
Proteolysis-targeting chimera (PROTAC) is a heterobifunctional molecule. Typically, PROTAC consists of two terminals which are the ligand of the protein of interest (POI) and the specific ligand of E3 ubiquitin ligase, respectively, via a suitable linker. PROTAC degradation of the target protein is performed through the ubiquitin–proteasome system (UPS). The general process is that PROTAC binds to the target protein and E3 ligase to form a ternary complex and label the target protein with ubiquitination. The ubiquitinated protein is recognized and degraded by the proteasome in the cell. At present, PROTAC, as a new type of drug, has been developed to degrade a variety of cancer target proteins and other disease target proteins, and has shown good curative effects on a variety of diseases. For example, PROTACs targeting AR, BR, BTK, Tau, IRAK4, and other proteins have shown unprecedented clinical efficacy in cancers, neurodegenerative diseases, inflammations, and other fields. Recently, PROTAC has entered a phase of rapid development, opening a new field for biomedical research and development. This paper reviews the various fields of targeted protein degradation by PROTAC in recent years and summarizes and prospects the hot targets and indications of PROTAC.
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41
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Simpson LM, Glennie L, Brewer A, Zhao JF, Crooks J, Shpiro N, Sapkota GP. Target protein localization and its impact on PROTAC-mediated degradation. Cell Chem Biol 2022; 29:1482-1504.e7. [PMID: 36075213 DOI: 10.1016/j.chembiol.2022.08.004] [Citation(s) in RCA: 20] [Impact Index Per Article: 10.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/23/2021] [Revised: 06/24/2022] [Accepted: 08/15/2022] [Indexed: 12/21/2022]
Abstract
Proteolysis-targeting chimeras (PROTACs) bring a protein of interest (POI) into spatial proximity of an E3 ubiquitin ligase, promoting POI ubiquitylation and proteasomal degradation. PROTACs rely on endogenous cellular machinery to mediate POI degradation, therefore the subcellular location of the POI and access to the E3 ligase being recruited potentially impacts PROTAC efficacy. To interrogate whether the subcellular context of the POI influences PROTAC-mediated degradation, we expressed either Halo or FKBP12F36V (dTAG) constructs consisting of varying localization signals and tested the efficacy of their degradation by von Hippel-Lindau (VHL)- or cereblon (CRBN)-recruiting PROTACs targeting either Halo or dTAG. POIs were localized to the nucleus, cytoplasm, outer mitochondrial membrane, endoplasmic reticulum, Golgi, peroxisome or lysosome. Differentially localized Halo or FKBP12F36V proteins displayed varying levels of degradation using the same respective PROTACs, suggesting therefore that the subcellular context of the POI can influence the efficacy of PROTAC-mediated POI degradation.
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Affiliation(s)
- Luke M Simpson
- Medical Research Council (MRC) Protein Phosphorylation & Ubiquitylation Unit, School of Life Sciences, University of Dundee, Dundee DD1 5EH, UK
| | - Lorraine Glennie
- Medical Research Council (MRC) Protein Phosphorylation & Ubiquitylation Unit, School of Life Sciences, University of Dundee, Dundee DD1 5EH, UK
| | - Abigail Brewer
- Medical Research Council (MRC) Protein Phosphorylation & Ubiquitylation Unit, School of Life Sciences, University of Dundee, Dundee DD1 5EH, UK
| | - Jin-Feng Zhao
- Medical Research Council (MRC) Protein Phosphorylation & Ubiquitylation Unit, School of Life Sciences, University of Dundee, Dundee DD1 5EH, UK
| | - Jennifer Crooks
- Medical Research Council (MRC) Protein Phosphorylation & Ubiquitylation Unit, School of Life Sciences, University of Dundee, Dundee DD1 5EH, UK
| | - Natalia Shpiro
- Medical Research Council (MRC) Protein Phosphorylation & Ubiquitylation Unit, School of Life Sciences, University of Dundee, Dundee DD1 5EH, UK
| | - Gopal P Sapkota
- Medical Research Council (MRC) Protein Phosphorylation & Ubiquitylation Unit, School of Life Sciences, University of Dundee, Dundee DD1 5EH, UK.
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42
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Payne NC, Maksoud S, Tannous BA, Mazitschek R. A direct high-throughput protein quantification strategy facilitates discovery and characterization of a celastrol-derived BRD4 degrader. Cell Chem Biol 2022; 29:1333-1340.e5. [PMID: 35649410 PMCID: PMC9391279 DOI: 10.1016/j.chembiol.2022.05.003] [Citation(s) in RCA: 16] [Impact Index Per Article: 8.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/11/2021] [Revised: 03/03/2022] [Accepted: 05/10/2022] [Indexed: 12/31/2022]
Abstract
We describe a generalizable time-resolved Förster resonance energy transfer (TR-FRET)-based platform to profile the cellular action of heterobifunctional degraders (or proteolysis-targeting chimeras [PROTACs]) that is capable of both accurately quantifying protein levels in whole-cell lysates in less than 1 h and measuring small-molecule target engagement to endogenous proteins, here specifically for human bromodomain-containing protein 4 (BRD4). The detection mix consists of a single primary antibody targeting the protein of interest, a luminescent donor-labeled anti-species nanobody, and a fluorescent acceptor ligand. Importantly, our strategy can readily be applied to other targets of interest and will greatly facilitate the cell-based profiling of small-molecule inhibitors and PROTACs in a high-throughput format with unmodified cell lines. We furthermore validate our platform in the characterization of celastrol, a p-quinone methide-containing pentacyclic triterpenoid, as a broad cysteine-targeting E3 ubiquitin ligase warhead for potent and efficient targeted protein degradation.
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Affiliation(s)
- N Connor Payne
- Center for Systems Biology, Massachusetts General Hospital, Boston, MA 02114, USA; Department of Chemistry & Chemical Biology, Harvard University, Cambridge, MA 02138, USA
| | - Semer Maksoud
- Experimental Therapeutics and Molecular Imaging Unit, Department of Neurology, Neuro-Oncology Division, Massachusetts General Hospital, Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA 02129, USA
| | - Bakhos A Tannous
- Experimental Therapeutics and Molecular Imaging Unit, Department of Neurology, Neuro-Oncology Division, Massachusetts General Hospital, Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA 02129, USA
| | - Ralph Mazitschek
- Center for Systems Biology, Massachusetts General Hospital, Boston, MA 02114, USA; Harvard T.H. Chan School of Public Health, Boston, MA 02115, USA; Broad Institute of MIT and Harvard, Cambridge, MA 02142, USA.
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43
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Plant proteostasis: a proven and promising target for crop improvement. Essays Biochem 2022; 66:75-85. [PMID: 35929615 DOI: 10.1042/ebc20210078] [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: 07/21/2022] [Revised: 08/02/2022] [Accepted: 08/02/2022] [Indexed: 11/17/2022]
Abstract
The Green Revolution of the 1960s accomplished dramatic increases in crop yields through genetic improvement, chemical fertilisers, irrigation, and mechanisation. However, the current trajectory of population growth, against a backdrop of climate change and geopolitical unrest, predicts that agricultural production will be insufficient to ensure global food security in the next three decades. Improvements to crops that go beyond incremental gains are urgently needed. Plant biology has also undergone a revolution in recent years, through the development and application of powerful technologies including genome sequencing, a pantheon of 'omics techniques, precise genome editing, and step changes in structural biology and microscopy. Proteostasis - the collective processes that control the protein complement of the cell, comprising synthesis, modification, localisation, and degradation - is a field that has benefitted from these advances. This special issue presents a selection of the latest research in this vibrant field, with a particular focus on protein degradation. In the current article, we highlight the diverse and widespread contributions of plant proteostasis to agronomic traits, suggest opportunities and strategies to manipulate different elements of proteostatic mechanisms for crop improvement, and discuss the challenges involved in bringing these ideas into practice.
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44
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Zhong T, Lei K, Lin X, Xie Z, Luo S, Zhou Z, Zhao B, Li X. Protein ubiquitination in T cell development. Front Immunol 2022; 13:941962. [PMID: 35990660 PMCID: PMC9386135 DOI: 10.3389/fimmu.2022.941962] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/12/2022] [Accepted: 07/11/2022] [Indexed: 11/26/2022] Open
Abstract
As an important form of posttranslational modification, protein ubiquitination regulates a wide variety of biological processes, including different aspects of T cell development and differentiation. During T cell development, thymic seeding progenitor cells (TSPs) in the thymus undergo multistep maturation programs and checkpoints, which are critical to build a functional and tolerant immune system. Currently, a tremendous amount of research has focused on the transcriptional regulation of thymocyte development. However, in the past few years, compelling evidence has revealed that the ubiquitination system also plays a crucial role in the regulation of thymocyte developmental programs. In this review, we summarize recent findings on the molecular mechanisms and cellular pathways that regulate thymocyte ubiquitination and discuss the roles of E3 ligases and deubiquitinating enzymes (DUBs) involved in these processes. Understanding how T cell development is regulated by ubiquitination and deubiquitination will not only enhance our understanding of cell fate determination via gene regulatory networks but also provide potential novel therapeutic strategies for treating autoimmune diseases and cancer.
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Affiliation(s)
| | | | | | | | | | | | - Bin Zhao
- *Correspondence: Bin Zhao, ; Xia Li,
| | - Xia Li
- *Correspondence: Bin Zhao, ; Xia Li,
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45
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Chemical biology and pharmacology of histone lysine methylation inhibitors. BIOCHIMICA ET BIOPHYSICA ACTA. GENE REGULATORY MECHANISMS 2022; 1865:194840. [PMID: 35753676 DOI: 10.1016/j.bbagrm.2022.194840] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/02/2022] [Revised: 06/13/2022] [Accepted: 06/15/2022] [Indexed: 12/20/2022]
Abstract
Histone lysine methylation is a post-translational modification that plays a key role in the epigenetic regulation of a broad spectrum of biological processes. Moreover, the dysregulation of histone lysine methyltransferases (KMTs) has been implicated in the pathogenesis of several diseases particularly cancer. Due to their pathobiological importance, KMTs have garnered immense attention over the last decade as attractive therapeutic targets. These endeavors have culminated in tens of chemical probes that have been used to interrogate many aspects of histone lysine methylation. Besides, over a dozen inhibitors have been advanced to clinical trials, including the EZH2 inhibitor tazemetostat approved for the treatment of follicular lymphoma and advanced epithelioid sarcoma. In this Review, we highlight the chemical biology and pharmacology of KMT inhibitors and targeted protein degraders focusing on the clinical development of EZH1/2, DOT1L, Menin-MLL, and WDR5-MLL inhibitors. We also briefly discuss the pharmacologic targeting of other KMTs.
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46
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Qin L, Dai H, Wang J. Key Considerations in Targeted Protein Degradation Drug Discovery and Development. Front Chem 2022; 10:934337. [PMID: 35978859 PMCID: PMC9376879 DOI: 10.3389/fchem.2022.934337] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/02/2022] [Accepted: 06/08/2022] [Indexed: 11/13/2022] Open
Abstract
Targeting proteins’ enzymatic functions with small molecule inhibitors, as well as functions of receptor proteins with small-molecule agonists and antagonists, were the major forms of small-molecule drug development. These small-molecule modulators are based on a conventional occupancy-driven pharmacological approach. For proteome space traditionally considered undruggable by small-molecule modulators, such as enzymes with scaffolding functions, transcription factors, and proteins that lack well-defined binding pockets for small molecules, targeted protein degraders offer the opportunity to drug the proteome with an event-driven pharmacological approach. A degrader molecule, either PROTAC or molecular glue, brings the protein of interest (POI) and E3 ubiquitin ligase in close proximity and engages the ubiquitin-proteasome system (UPS), the cellular waste disposal system for the degradation of the POI. For the development of targeted protein degraders to meet therapeutic needs, several aspects will be considered, namely, the selective degradation of disease-causing proteins, the oral bioavailability of degraders beyond Lipinski’s rule of five (bRo5) scope, demands of new E3 ubiquitin ligases and molecular glue degraders, and drug resistance of the new drug modality. This review will illustrate several under-discussed key considerations in targeted protein degradation drug discovery and development: 1) the contributing factors for the selectivity of PROTAC molecules and the design of PROTACs to selectively degrade synergistic pathological proteins; 2) assay development in combination with a multi-omics approach for the identification of new E3 ligases and their corresponding ligands, as well as molecular glue degraders; 3) a molecular design to improve the oral bioavailability of bRo5 PROTACs, and 4) drug resistance of degraders.
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Affiliation(s)
- Liena Qin
- Insilico Medicine Ltd., Shanghai, China
- *Correspondence: Liena Qin, ; Han Dai, ; Junfeng Wang,
| | - Han Dai
- High Magnetic Field Laboratory, CAS Key Laboratory of High Magnetic Field and Ion Beam Physical Biology, Hefei Institutes of Physical Science, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Hefei, China
- *Correspondence: Liena Qin, ; Han Dai, ; Junfeng Wang,
| | - Junfeng Wang
- High Magnetic Field Laboratory, CAS Key Laboratory of High Magnetic Field and Ion Beam Physical Biology, Hefei Institutes of Physical Science, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Hefei, China
- International Magnetobiology Frontier Research Center, Hefei, China
- Institute of Physical Science and Information Technology, Anhui University, Hefei, China
- *Correspondence: Liena Qin, ; Han Dai, ; Junfeng Wang,
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47
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Lin Z, Woo CM. Methods to characterize and discover molecular degraders in cells. Chem Soc Rev 2022; 51:7115-7137. [PMID: 35899832 DOI: 10.1039/d2cs00261b] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/21/2022]
Abstract
Cells use many post-translational modifications (PTMs) to tailor proteins and transduce cellular signals. Recent years have witnessed the rapid growth of small molecule and enzymatic strategies to purposely manipulate one particular PTM, ubiquitination, on desired target proteins in cells. These approaches typically act by induced proximity between an E3 ligase and a target protein resulting in ubiquitination and degradation of the substrate in cells. In this review, we cover recent approaches to study molecular degraders and discover their induced substrates in vitro and in live cells. Methods that have been adapted and applied to the development of molecular degraders are described, including global proteomics, affinity-purification, chemical proteomics and enzymatic strategies. Extension of these strategies to edit additional PTMs in cells is also discussed. This review is intended to assist researchers who are interested in editing PTMs with new modalities to select suitable method(s) and guide their studies.
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Affiliation(s)
- Zhi Lin
- Department of Chemistry and Chemical Biology, Harvard University, Cambridge, Massachusetts 02138, USA.
| | - Christina M Woo
- Department of Chemistry and Chemical Biology, Harvard University, Cambridge, Massachusetts 02138, USA.
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48
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Riching KM, Caine EA, Urh M, Daniels DL. The importance of cellular degradation kinetics for understanding mechanisms in targeted protein degradation. Chem Soc Rev 2022; 51:6210-6221. [PMID: 35792307 DOI: 10.1039/d2cs00339b] [Citation(s) in RCA: 15] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/21/2022]
Abstract
Targeted protein degradation has exploded over the past several years due to preclinical and early clinical therapeutic success of numerous compounds, and the emergence of new degradation modalities, which has broadened the definition of what a degrader is. The most characterized and well-studied small molecule degraders are molecular glues and proteolysis targeting chimeras (PROTACs). These degraders induce a ternary complex between a target protein, degrader, and E3 ligase component, resulting in ubiquitination and subsequent degradation of the target protein via the ubiquitin proteasomal system (UPS). This event-driven process requires success at all steps through a complex cascade of events. As more systems, degraders, and targets are tested, it has become increasingly clear that achieving degradation is only the first critical milestone in a degrader development program. Rather highly efficacious degraders require a combination of multiple optimized parameters: rapid degradation, high potency, high maximal degradation (Dmax), and sustained loss of target without re-dosing. Success to meet these more rigorous goals depends upon the ability to characterize and understand the dynamic cellular degradation profiles and relate them to the underlying mechanism for any given target treated with a specific concentration of degrader. From this starting point, optimization and fine tuning of multiple kinetic parameters such as how fast degradation occurs (the rate), how much of the target is degraded (the extent), and how long the target remains degraded (the duration) can be performed. In this review we explore the diversity of cellular kinetic degradation profiles which can arise after molecular glue and PROTAC treatment and the potential implications of these varying responses. As the overall degradation kinetics are a sum of individual mechanistic steps, each with their own kinetic contributions, we discuss the ways in which changes at any one of these steps could potentially influence the resultant kinetic degradation profiles. Looking forward, we address the importance in characterizing the kinetics of target protein loss in the early stages of degrader design and how this will enable more rapid discovery of therapeutic agents to elicit desired phenotypic outcomes.
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Affiliation(s)
- Kristin M Riching
- Promega Corporation, 5430 East Cheryl Drive, Madison, WI, 53711, USA.
| | - Elizabeth A Caine
- Promega Corporation, 5430 East Cheryl Drive, Madison, WI, 53711, USA.
| | - Marjeta Urh
- Promega Corporation, 5430 East Cheryl Drive, Madison, WI, 53711, USA.
| | - Danette L Daniels
- Promega Corporation, 5430 East Cheryl Drive, Madison, WI, 53711, USA.
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49
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Sosič I, Bricelj A, Steinebach C. E3 ligase ligand chemistries: from building blocks to protein degraders. Chem Soc Rev 2022; 51:3487-3534. [PMID: 35393989 DOI: 10.1039/d2cs00148a] [Citation(s) in RCA: 48] [Impact Index Per Article: 24.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/12/2022]
Abstract
In recent years, proteolysis-targeting chimeras (PROTACs), capable of achieving targeted protein degradation, have proven their great therapeutic potential and usefulness as molecular biology tools. These heterobifunctional compounds are comprised of a protein-targeting ligand, an appropriate linker, and a ligand binding to the E3 ligase of choice. A successful PROTAC induces the formation of a ternary complex, leading to the E3 ligase-mediated ubiquitination of the targeted protein and its proteasomal degradation. In over 20 years since the concept was first demonstrated, the field has grown substantially, mainly due to the advancements in the discovery of non-peptidic E3 ligase ligands. Development of small-molecule E3 binders with favourable physicochemical profiles aided the design of PROTACs, which are known for breaking the rules of established guidelines for discovering small molecules. Synthetic accessibility of the ligands and numerous successful applications led to the prevalent use of cereblon and von Hippel-Lindau as the hijacked E3 ligase. However, the pool of over 600 human E3 ligases is full of untapped potential, which is why expanding the artillery of E3 ligands could contribute to broadening the scope of targeted protein degradation. In this comprehensive review, we focus on the chemistry aspect of the PROTAC design process by providing an overview of liganded E3 ligases, their chemistries, appropriate derivatisation, and synthetic approaches towards their incorporation into heterobifunctional degraders. By covering syntheses of both established and underexploited E3 ligases, this review can serve as a chemistry blueprint for PROTAC researchers during their future ventures into the complex field of targeted protein degradation.
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Affiliation(s)
- Izidor Sosič
- Faculty of Pharmacy, University of Ljubljana, SI-1000 Ljubljana, Slovenia
| | - Aleša Bricelj
- Faculty of Pharmacy, University of Ljubljana, SI-1000 Ljubljana, Slovenia
| | - Christian Steinebach
- Pharmaceutical Institute, Pharmaceutical & Medicinal Chemistry, University of Bonn, An der Immenburg 4, D-53121 Bonn, Germany
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Nalawansha DA, Li K, Hines J, Crews CM. Hijacking Methyl Reader Proteins for Nuclear-Specific Protein Degradation. J Am Chem Soc 2022; 144:5594-5605. [DOI: 10.1021/jacs.2c00874] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/16/2022]
Affiliation(s)
- Dhanusha A. Nalawansha
- Department of Molecular, Cellular and Developmental Biology, Yale University, New Haven, Connecticut 06511, United States
| | - Ke Li
- Department of Molecular, Cellular and Developmental Biology, Yale University, New Haven, Connecticut 06511, United States
| | - John Hines
- Department of Molecular, Cellular and Developmental Biology, Yale University, New Haven, Connecticut 06511, United States
| | - Craig M. Crews
- Department of Molecular, Cellular and Developmental Biology, Yale University, New Haven, Connecticut 06511, United States
- Department of Chemistry, Yale University, New Haven, Connecticut 06511, United States
- Department of Pharmacology, Yale University, New Haven, Connecticut 06511, United States
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