1
|
Yao M, Zeng Z, Li S, Zou Z, Chen Z, Chen X, Gao Q, Zhao G, Chen A, Li Z, Wang Y, Ning R, McAlinden C, Zhou X, Huang J. CRISPR-CasRx-mediated disruption of Aqp1/Adrb2/Rock1/Rock2 genes reduces intraocular pressure and retinal ganglion cell damage in mice. Nat Commun 2024; 15:6395. [PMID: 39080269 PMCID: PMC11289368 DOI: 10.1038/s41467-024-50050-4] [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: 12/05/2023] [Accepted: 06/27/2024] [Indexed: 08/02/2024] Open
Abstract
Glaucoma affects approximately 80 million individuals worldwide, a condition for which current treatment options are inadequate. The primary risk factor for glaucoma is elevated intraocular pressure. Intraocular pressure is determined by the balance between the secretion and outflow of aqueous humor. Here we show that using the RNA interference tool CasRx based on shH10 adenovirus-associated virus can reduce the expression of the aqueous humor circulation related genes Rock1 and Rock2, as well as aquaporin 1 and β2 adrenergic receptor in female mice. This significantly reduced intraocular pressure in female mice and provided protection to the retina ganglion cells, ultimately delaying disease progression. In addition, we elucidated the mechanisms by which the knockdown of Rock1 and Rock2, or aquaporin 1 and β2 adrenergic receptor in female mice, reduces the intraocular pressure and secures the retina ganglion cells by single-cell sequencing.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Mingyu Yao
- Eye Institute and Department of Ophthalmology, Eye & ENT Hospital, Fudan University; NHC Key laboratory of Myopia and Related Eye Diseases; Key Laboratory of Myopia and Related Eye Diseases, Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences, Shanghai, China
- Shanghai Research Center of Ophthalmology and Optometry, Shanghai, China
| | - Zhenhai Zeng
- Eye Institute and Department of Ophthalmology, Eye & ENT Hospital, Fudan University; NHC Key laboratory of Myopia and Related Eye Diseases; Key Laboratory of Myopia and Related Eye Diseases, Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences, Shanghai, China
- Shanghai Research Center of Ophthalmology and Optometry, Shanghai, China
| | - Siheng Li
- Eye Institute and Department of Ophthalmology, Eye & ENT Hospital, Fudan University; NHC Key laboratory of Myopia and Related Eye Diseases; Key Laboratory of Myopia and Related Eye Diseases, Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences, Shanghai, China
- School of Ophthalmology and Optometry and Eye Hospital, Wenzhou Medical University, Wenzhou, Zhejiang, China
| | - Zhilin Zou
- School of Ophthalmology and Optometry and Eye Hospital, Wenzhou Medical University, Wenzhou, Zhejiang, China
| | - Zhongxing Chen
- Eye Institute and Department of Ophthalmology, Eye & ENT Hospital, Fudan University; NHC Key laboratory of Myopia and Related Eye Diseases; Key Laboratory of Myopia and Related Eye Diseases, Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences, Shanghai, China
- Shanghai Research Center of Ophthalmology and Optometry, Shanghai, China
| | - Xinyi Chen
- School of Ophthalmology and Optometry and Eye Hospital, Wenzhou Medical University, Wenzhou, Zhejiang, China
| | - Qingyi Gao
- Eye Institute and Department of Ophthalmology, Eye & ENT Hospital, Fudan University; NHC Key laboratory of Myopia and Related Eye Diseases; Key Laboratory of Myopia and Related Eye Diseases, Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences, Shanghai, China
- Shanghai Research Center of Ophthalmology and Optometry, Shanghai, China
| | - Guoli Zhao
- Eye Institute and Department of Ophthalmology, Eye & ENT Hospital, Fudan University; NHC Key laboratory of Myopia and Related Eye Diseases; Key Laboratory of Myopia and Related Eye Diseases, Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences, Shanghai, China
- Shanghai Research Center of Ophthalmology and Optometry, Shanghai, China
| | - Aodong Chen
- School of Ophthalmology and Optometry and Eye Hospital, Wenzhou Medical University, Wenzhou, Zhejiang, China
| | - Zheng Li
- School of Ophthalmology and Optometry and Eye Hospital, Wenzhou Medical University, Wenzhou, Zhejiang, China
| | - Yiran Wang
- Eye Institute and Department of Ophthalmology, Eye & ENT Hospital, Fudan University; NHC Key laboratory of Myopia and Related Eye Diseases; Key Laboratory of Myopia and Related Eye Diseases, Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences, Shanghai, China
- Shanghai Research Center of Ophthalmology and Optometry, Shanghai, China
| | - Rui Ning
- Eye Institute and Department of Ophthalmology, Eye & ENT Hospital, Fudan University; NHC Key laboratory of Myopia and Related Eye Diseases; Key Laboratory of Myopia and Related Eye Diseases, Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences, Shanghai, China
- Shanghai Research Center of Ophthalmology and Optometry, Shanghai, China
| | - Colm McAlinden
- Eye Institute and Department of Ophthalmology, Eye & ENT Hospital, Fudan University; NHC Key laboratory of Myopia and Related Eye Diseases; Key Laboratory of Myopia and Related Eye Diseases, Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences, Shanghai, China
- Corneo Plastic Unit & Eye Bank, Queen Victoria Hospital, East Grinstead, UK
| | - Xingtao Zhou
- Eye Institute and Department of Ophthalmology, Eye & ENT Hospital, Fudan University; NHC Key laboratory of Myopia and Related Eye Diseases; Key Laboratory of Myopia and Related Eye Diseases, Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences, Shanghai, China.
- Shanghai Research Center of Ophthalmology and Optometry, Shanghai, China.
| | - Jinhai Huang
- Eye Institute and Department of Ophthalmology, Eye & ENT Hospital, Fudan University; NHC Key laboratory of Myopia and Related Eye Diseases; Key Laboratory of Myopia and Related Eye Diseases, Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences, Shanghai, China.
- Shanghai Research Center of Ophthalmology and Optometry, Shanghai, China.
| |
Collapse
|
2
|
Zhang C, Liu YC, Wang D, Wang Y. Discovery of a novel ROCK2 ATP competitive inhibitor by DNA-encoded library selection. Biochem Biophys Res Commun 2024; 699:149537. [PMID: 38280309 DOI: 10.1016/j.bbrc.2024.149537] [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: 11/22/2023] [Revised: 12/23/2023] [Accepted: 01/14/2024] [Indexed: 01/29/2024]
Abstract
Neurodegeneration disorders, such as Alzheimer's disease (AD), have garnered significant attention due to their impact on individuals and society as a whole. Understanding the mechanisms behind these disorders and developing effective therapy strategies is of utmost importance. One potential therapeutic target that has emerged is Rho-associated coiled-coil containing protein kinase 2 (ROCK2), as its accumulation and activity have been closely linked to memory loss. In this report, we present the findings of a recent discovery involving a new molecule that has the ability to competitively inhibit ROCK2 activity. This molecule was identified through the utilization of a DNA-encoded library (DEL) screening platform. Following selection against ROCK2, an off-DNA compound was synthesized and examined to ascertain its inhibitory properties, selectivity, mechanism of action, and binding mode analysis. From the screening, compound CH-2 has demonstrated an IC50 value of 28 nM against ROCK2, while exhibiting a 5-fold selectivity over ROCK1. Further analysis through molecular docking has provided insights into the specific binding modes of this compound. Our findings suggest that DEL selection offers a rapid method for identifying new inhibitors. Among these, the CH-2 compound shows promise as a potential ROCK2 inhibitor and warrants further investigation.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Chenhua Zhang
- Institute for Cancer Research, School of Basic Medical Science, Health Science Center of Xi'an Jiaotong University, 76 YanTa XiLu, Xi'an, Shaanxi, 710061, China
| | - Yu-Chih Liu
- TandemAI Technology Shanghai Co., Ltd., Zhangjiang Hi-Tech Park, Shanghai, 201203, China
| | - Depu Wang
- Med-X Institute, The First Affiliated Hospital of Xi'an Jiaotong University, Xi'an, Shaanxi, 710061, China
| | - Yili Wang
- Institute for Cancer Research, School of Basic Medical Science, Health Science Center of Xi'an Jiaotong University, 76 YanTa XiLu, Xi'an, Shaanxi, 710061, China.
| |
Collapse
|
3
|
Wei L, Shi J. Insight Into Rho Kinase Isoforms in Obesity and Energy Homeostasis. Front Endocrinol (Lausanne) 2022; 13:886534. [PMID: 35769086 PMCID: PMC9234286 DOI: 10.3389/fendo.2022.886534] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/28/2022] [Accepted: 05/06/2022] [Indexed: 11/13/2022] Open
Abstract
Obesity and associated complications increasingly jeopardize global health and contribute to the rapidly rising prevalence of type 2 diabetes mellitus and obesity-related diseases. Developing novel methods for the prevention and treatment of excess body adipose tissue expansion can make a significant contribution to public health. Rho kinase is a Rho-associated coiled-coil-containing protein kinase (Rho kinase or ROCK). The ROCK family including ROCK1 and ROCK2 has recently emerged as a potential therapeutic target for the treatment of metabolic disorders. Up-regulated ROCK activity has been involved in the pathogenesis of all aspects of metabolic syndrome including obesity, insulin resistance, dyslipidemia and hypertension. The RhoA/ROCK-mediated actin cytoskeleton dynamics have been implicated in both white and beige adipogenesis. Studies using ROCK pan-inhibitors in animal models of obesity, diabetes, and associated complications have demonstrated beneficial outcomes. Studies via genetically modified animal models further established isoform-specific roles of ROCK in the pathogenesis of metabolic disorders including obesity. However, most reported studies have been focused on ROCK1 activity during the past decade. Due to the progress in developing ROCK2-selective inhibitors in recent years, a growing body of evidence indicates more attention should be devoted towards understanding ROCK2 isoform function in metabolism. Hence, studying individual ROCK isoforms to reveal their specific roles and principal mechanisms in white and beige adipogenesis, insulin sensitivity, energy balancing regulation, and obesity development will facilitate significant breakthroughs for systemic treatment with isoform-selective inhibitors. In this review, we give an overview of ROCK functions in the pathogenesis of obesity and insulin resistance with a particular focus on the current understanding of ROCK isoform signaling in white and beige adipogenesis, obesity and thermogenesis in adipose tissue and other major metabolic organs involved in energy homeostasis regulation.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Lei Wei
- *Correspondence: Lei Wei, ; Jianjian Shi,
| | | |
Collapse
|
4
|
Mendoza FA, Jimenez SA. Serine-Threonine Kinase inhibition as antifibrotic therapy: TGF-β and ROCK inhibitors. Rheumatology (Oxford) 2021; 61:1354-1365. [PMID: 34664623 DOI: 10.1093/rheumatology/keab762] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/23/2021] [Revised: 08/18/2021] [Accepted: 09/23/2021] [Indexed: 11/13/2022] Open
Abstract
Serine-threonine kinases mediate the phosphorylation of intracellular protein targets, transferring a phosphorus group from an ATP molecule to the specific amino acid residues within the target proteins. Serine-threonine kinases regulate multiple key cellular functions. From this large group of kinases, transforming growth factor beta (TGF-β) through the serine-threonine activity of its receptors and Rho kinase (ROCK) play an important role in the development and maintenance of fibrosis in various human diseases, including systemic sclerosis. In recent years, multiple drugs targeting and inhibiting these kinases, have been developed, opening the possibility of becoming potential antifibrotic agents of clinical value for treating fibrotic diseases. This review analyzes the contribution of TGF- β and ROCK-mediated serine-threonine kinase molecular pathways to the development and maintenance of pathological fibrosis and the potential clinical use of their inhibition.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Fabian A Mendoza
- Division of Rheumatology, Department of Medicine. Thomas Jefferson University. Philadelphia, PA, USA 19107.,Jefferson Institute of Molecular Medicine and Scleroderma Center. Thomas Jefferson University. Philadelphia, PA, USA 19107
| | - Sergio A Jimenez
- Jefferson Institute of Molecular Medicine and Scleroderma Center. Thomas Jefferson University. Philadelphia, PA, USA 19107
| |
Collapse
|
5
|
Crosas-Molist E, Samain R, Kohlhammer L, Orgaz J, George S, Maiques O, Barcelo J, Sanz-Moreno V. RhoGTPase Signalling in Cancer Progression and Dissemination. Physiol Rev 2021; 102:455-510. [PMID: 34541899 DOI: 10.1152/physrev.00045.2020] [Citation(s) in RCA: 90] [Impact Index Per Article: 30.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/12/2022] Open
Abstract
Rho GTPases are a family of small G proteins that regulate a wide array of cellular processes related to their key roles controlling the cytoskeleton. On the other hand, cancer is a multi-step disease caused by the accumulation of genetic mutations and epigenetic alterations, from the initial stages of cancer development when cells in normal tissues undergo transformation, to the acquisition of invasive and metastatic traits, responsible for a large number of cancer related deaths. In this review, we discuss the role of Rho GTPase signalling in cancer in every step of disease progression. Rho GTPases contribute to tumour initiation and progression, by regulating proliferation and apoptosis, but also metabolism, senescence and cell stemness. Rho GTPases play a major role in cell migration, and in the metastatic process. They are also involved in interactions with the tumour microenvironment and regulate inflammation, contributing to cancer progression. After years of intensive research, we highlight the importance of relevant models in the Rho GTPase field, and we reflect on the therapeutic opportunities arising for cancer patients.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Eva Crosas-Molist
- Barts Cancer Institute, Queen Mary University of London, London, United Kingdom
| | - Remi Samain
- Barts Cancer Institute, Queen Mary University of London, London, United Kingdom
| | - Leonie Kohlhammer
- Barts Cancer Institute, Queen Mary University of London, London, United Kingdom
| | - Jose Orgaz
- Barts Cancer Institute, Queen Mary University of London, London, United Kingdom.,Instituto de Investigaciones Biomédicas 'Alberto Sols', CSIC-UAM, 28029, Madrid, Spain
| | - Samantha George
- Barts Cancer Institute, Queen Mary University of London, London, United Kingdom
| | - Oscar Maiques
- Barts Cancer Institute, Queen Mary University of London, London, United Kingdom
| | - Jaume Barcelo
- Barts Cancer Institute, Queen Mary University of London, London, United Kingdom
| | | |
Collapse
|
6
|
Tran NNQ, Chun KH. ROCK2-Specific Inhibitor KD025 Suppresses Adipocyte Differentiation by Inhibiting Casein Kinase 2. Molecules 2021; 26:4747. [PMID: 34443331 PMCID: PMC8401933 DOI: 10.3390/molecules26164747] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/08/2021] [Revised: 07/30/2021] [Accepted: 08/02/2021] [Indexed: 11/16/2022] Open
Abstract
KD025, a ROCK2 isoform-specific inhibitor, has an anti-adipogenic activity which is not mediated by ROCK2 inhibition. To identify the target, we searched binding targets of KD025 by using the KINOMEscanTM screening platform, and we identified casein kinase 2 (CK2) as a novel target. KD025 showed comparable binding affinity to CK2α (Kd = 128 nM). By contrast, CK2 inhibitor CX-4945 and ROCK inhibitor fasudil did not show such cross-reactivity. In addition, KD025 effectively inhibited CK2 at a nanomolar concentration (IC50 = 50 nM). We examined if the inhibitory effect of KD025 on adipocyte differentiation is through the inhibition of CK2. Both CX-4945 and KD025 suppressed the generation of lipid droplets and the expression of proadipogenic genes Pparg and Cebpa in 3T3-L1 cells during adipocyte differentiation. Fasudil exerted no significant effect on the quantity of lipid droplets, but another ROCK inhibitor Y-27632 increased the expression of Pparg and Cebpa. Both CX-4945 and KD025 acted specifically in the middle stage (days 1-3) but were ineffective when treated at days 0-1 or the late stages, indicating that CX-4945 and KD025 may regulate the same target, CK2. The mRNA and protein levels of CK2α and CK2β generally decreased in 3T3-L1 cells at day 2 but recovered thereafter. Other well-known CK2 inhibitors DMAT and quinalizarin inhibited effectively the differentiation of 3T3-L1 cells. Taken together, the results of this study confirmed that KD025 inhibits ROCK2 and CK2, and that the inhibitory effect on adipocyte differentiation is through the inhibition of CK2.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
| | - Kwang-Hoon Chun
- Gachon Institute of Pharmaceutical Sciences, College of Pharmacy, Gachon University, Incheon 21936, Korea;
| |
Collapse
|
7
|
Cutler C. Treating Inflammation and Fibrosis in Chronic GVHD: Two Birds, One ROCK. J Clin Oncol 2021; 39:1942-1945. [PMID: 33877859 DOI: 10.1200/jco.21.00214] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/20/2022] Open
|
8
|
Hu Z, Wang C, Sitkoff D, Cheadle NL, Xu S, Muckelbauer JK, Adam LP, Wexler RR, Quan ML. Identification of 5H-chromeno[3,4-c]pyridine and 6H-isochromeno[3,4-c]pyridine derivatives as potent and selective dual ROCK inhibitors. Bioorg Med Chem Lett 2020; 30:127474. [PMID: 32805407 DOI: 10.1016/j.bmcl.2020.127474] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/10/2020] [Accepted: 08/04/2020] [Indexed: 10/23/2022]
Abstract
A novel series of 5H-chromeno[3,4-c]pyridine, 6H-isochromeno[3,4-c]pyridine and 6H-isochromeno[4,3-d]pyrimidine derivatives as dual ROCK1 and ROCK2 inhibitors is described. Optimization led to compounds with sub-nanomolar inhibitory affinity for both kinases and excellent kinome selectivity. Compound 19 exhibited ROCK1 and ROCK2 IC50 of 0.67 nM and 0.18 nM respectively.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Zilun Hu
- Research & Early Development, Bristol Myers Squibb, P.O. Box 5400, Princeton, NJ 08543-5400, USA.
| | - Cailan Wang
- Research & Early Development, Bristol Myers Squibb, P.O. Box 5400, Princeton, NJ 08543-5400, USA
| | - Doree Sitkoff
- Research & Early Development, Bristol Myers Squibb, P.O. Box 5400, Princeton, NJ 08543-5400, USA
| | - Nathan L Cheadle
- Research & Early Development, Bristol Myers Squibb, P.O. Box 5400, Princeton, NJ 08543-5400, USA
| | - Songmei Xu
- Research & Early Development, Bristol Myers Squibb, P.O. Box 5400, Princeton, NJ 08543-5400, USA
| | - Jodi K Muckelbauer
- Research & Early Development, Bristol Myers Squibb, P.O. Box 5400, Princeton, NJ 08543-5400, USA
| | - Leonard P Adam
- Research & Early Development, Bristol Myers Squibb, P.O. Box 5400, Princeton, NJ 08543-5400, USA
| | - Ruth R Wexler
- Research & Early Development, Bristol Myers Squibb, P.O. Box 5400, Princeton, NJ 08543-5400, USA
| | - Mimi L Quan
- Research & Early Development, Bristol Myers Squibb, P.O. Box 5400, Princeton, NJ 08543-5400, USA
| |
Collapse
|
9
|
Determination of KD025 (SLx-2119), a Selective ROCK2 Inhibitor, in Rat Plasma by High-Performance Liquid Chromatography-Tandem Mass Spectrometry and its Pharmacokinetic Application. Molecules 2020; 25:molecules25061369. [PMID: 32192179 PMCID: PMC7144358 DOI: 10.3390/molecules25061369] [Citation(s) in RCA: 15] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/27/2020] [Revised: 03/13/2020] [Accepted: 03/13/2020] [Indexed: 12/22/2022] Open
Abstract
KD025 (SLx-2119), the first specific Rho-associated protein kinase 2 (ROCK2) inhibitor, is a potential new drug candidate currently undergoing several phase 2 clinical trials for psoriasis, idiopathic pulmonary fibrosis, chronic graft-versus-host disease, and systemic sclerosis. In this study, a bio-analytical method was developed and fully validated for the quantification of KD025 in rat plasma and for application in pharmacokinetic studies. KD025 and GSK429286A (the internal standard) in rat plasma samples were analyzed by high-performance liquid chromatography-tandem mass spectrometry with m/z transition values of 453.10 → 366.10 and 433.00 → 178.00, respectively. The method was fully validated according to the United State Food and Drug Administration guidelines in terms of selectivity, linearity, accuracy, precision, sensitivity, matrix effects, extraction recovery, and stability. The method enabled the quantification of KD025 levels in rat plasma following oral administration of 5 mg/kg KD025 and intravenous administration of 2 mg/kg KD025 to rats, respectively. Our findings suggest that the developed method is practical and reliable for pharmacokinetic studies of KD025 in preclinical animals.
Collapse
|