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Luo J, Li Y, Zhang Y, Wu D, Ren Y, Liu J, Wang C, Zhang J. An update on small molecule compounds targeting synthetic lethality for cancer therapy. Eur J Med Chem 2024; 278:116804. [PMID: 39241482 DOI: 10.1016/j.ejmech.2024.116804] [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: 05/07/2024] [Revised: 08/19/2024] [Accepted: 08/26/2024] [Indexed: 09/09/2024]
Abstract
Targeting cancer-specific vulnerabilities through synthetic lethality (SL) is an emerging paradigm in precision oncology. A SL strategy based on PARP inhibitors has demonstrated clinical efficacy. Advances in DNA damage response (DDR) uncover novel SL gene pairs. Beyond BRCA-PARP, emerging SL targets like ATR, ATM, DNA-PK, CHK1, WEE1, CDK12, RAD51, and RAD52 show clinical promise. Selective and bioavailable small molecule inhibitors have been developed to induce SL, but optimization for potency, specificity, and drug-like properties remains challenging. This article illuminated recent progress in the field of medicinal chemistry centered on the rational design of agents capable of eliciting SL specifically in neoplastic cells. It is envisioned that innovative strategies harnessing SL for small molecule design may unlock novel prospects for targeted cancer therapeutics going forward.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jiaxiang Luo
- Department of Biotherapy, Cancer Center and State Key Laboratory of Biotherapy and Department of Pulmonary and Critical Care Medicine, Institute of Respiratory Health and Frontiers Science Center for Disease-related Molecular Network and Laboratory of Neuro-system and Multimorbidity, West China Hospital, Sichuan University, Chengdu, 610041, Sichuan, China
| | - Yang Li
- Department of Biotherapy, Cancer Center and State Key Laboratory of Biotherapy and Department of Pulmonary and Critical Care Medicine, Institute of Respiratory Health and Frontiers Science Center for Disease-related Molecular Network and Laboratory of Neuro-system and Multimorbidity, West China Hospital, Sichuan University, Chengdu, 610041, Sichuan, China
| | - Yiwen Zhang
- Department of Biotherapy, Cancer Center and State Key Laboratory of Biotherapy and Department of Pulmonary and Critical Care Medicine, Institute of Respiratory Health and Frontiers Science Center for Disease-related Molecular Network and Laboratory of Neuro-system and Multimorbidity, West China Hospital, Sichuan University, Chengdu, 610041, Sichuan, China
| | - Defa Wu
- Department of Biotherapy, Cancer Center and State Key Laboratory of Biotherapy and Department of Pulmonary and Critical Care Medicine, Institute of Respiratory Health and Frontiers Science Center for Disease-related Molecular Network and Laboratory of Neuro-system and Multimorbidity, West China Hospital, Sichuan University, Chengdu, 610041, Sichuan, China
| | - Yijiu Ren
- Department of Thoracic Surgery, Shanghai Pulmonary Hospital, Tongji University School of Medicine, Shanghai, 200433, China
| | - Jie Liu
- Department of Biotherapy, Cancer Center and State Key Laboratory of Biotherapy and Department of Pulmonary and Critical Care Medicine, Institute of Respiratory Health and Frontiers Science Center for Disease-related Molecular Network and Laboratory of Neuro-system and Multimorbidity, West China Hospital, Sichuan University, Chengdu, 610041, Sichuan, China.
| | - Chengdi Wang
- Department of Biotherapy, Cancer Center and State Key Laboratory of Biotherapy and Department of Pulmonary and Critical Care Medicine, Institute of Respiratory Health and Frontiers Science Center for Disease-related Molecular Network and Laboratory of Neuro-system and Multimorbidity, West China Hospital, Sichuan University, Chengdu, 610041, Sichuan, China.
| | - Jifa Zhang
- Department of Biotherapy, Cancer Center and State Key Laboratory of Biotherapy and Department of Pulmonary and Critical Care Medicine, Institute of Respiratory Health and Frontiers Science Center for Disease-related Molecular Network and Laboratory of Neuro-system and Multimorbidity, West China Hospital, Sichuan University, Chengdu, 610041, Sichuan, China.
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2
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Moosavi F, Hassani B, Nazari S, Saso L, Firuzi O. Targeting DNA damage response in pancreatic ductal adenocarcinoma: A review of preclinical and clinical evidence. Biochim Biophys Acta Rev Cancer 2024; 1879:189185. [PMID: 39326802 DOI: 10.1016/j.bbcan.2024.189185] [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: 03/06/2024] [Revised: 09/18/2024] [Accepted: 09/18/2024] [Indexed: 09/28/2024]
Abstract
Pancreatic ductal adenocarcinoma (PDAC) is associated with one of the most unfavorable prognoses across all malignancies. In this review, we investigate the role of inhibitors targeting crucial regulators of DNA damage response (DDR) pathways, either as single treatments or in combination with chemotherapeutic agents and targeted therapies in PDAC. The most prominent clinical benefit of PARP inhibitors' monotherapy is related to the principle of synthetic lethality in individuals harboring BRCA1/2 and other DDR gene mutations as predictive biomarkers. Moreover, induction of BRCAness with inhibitors of RTKs, including VEGFR and c-MET and their downstream signaling pathways, RAS/RAF/MEK/ERK and PI3K/AKT/mTOR in order to expand the application of PARP inhibitors in patients without DDR mutations, has also been addressed. Other DDR-targeting agents beyond PARP inhibitors, including inhibitors of ATM, ATR, CHEK1/2, and WEE1 have also demonstrated their potential in preclinical models of PDAC and may hold promise in future studies.
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Affiliation(s)
- Fatemeh Moosavi
- Medicinal and Natural Products Chemistry Research Center, Shiraz University of Medical Sciences, Shiraz, Iran
| | - Bahareh Hassani
- Medicinal and Natural Products Chemistry Research Center, Shiraz University of Medical Sciences, Shiraz, Iran
| | - Somayeh Nazari
- Medicinal and Natural Products Chemistry Research Center, Shiraz University of Medical Sciences, Shiraz, Iran
| | - Luciano Saso
- Department of Physiology and Pharmacology "Vittorio Erspamer", Sapienza University of Rome, P. le Aldo Moro 5, 00185 Rome, Italy
| | - Omidreza Firuzi
- Medicinal and Natural Products Chemistry Research Center, Shiraz University of Medical Sciences, Shiraz, Iran.
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3
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Kato TA, Maeda J, Watanabe H, Kawamura S, Wilson PF. Simultaneous inhibition of ATM, ATR, and DNA-PK causes synergistic lethality. Biochem Biophys Res Commun 2024; 738:150517. [PMID: 39146620 DOI: 10.1016/j.bbrc.2024.150517] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/06/2024] [Accepted: 08/06/2024] [Indexed: 08/17/2024]
Abstract
Here we report that simultaneous inhibition of the three primary DNA damage recognition PI3 kinase-like kinases (PIKKs) -ATM, ATR, and DNA-PK- induces severe combinatorial synthetic lethality in mammalian cells. Utilizing Chinese hamster cell lines CHO and V79 and their respective PIKK mutants, we evaluated effects of inhibiting these three kinases on cell viability, DNA damage response, and chromosomal integrity. Our results demonstrate that while single or dual kinase inhibition increased cytotoxicity, inhibition of all three PIKKs results in significantly higher synergistic lethality, chromosomal aberrations, and DNA double-strand break (DSB) induction as calculated by their synergy scores. These findings suggest that the overlapping redundancy of ATM, ATR, and DNA-PK functions is critical for cell survival, and their combined inhibition greatly disrupts DNA damage signaling and repair processes, leading to cell death. This study provides insights into the potential of multi-targeted DDR kinase inhibition as an effective anticancer strategy, necessitating further research to elucidate underlying mechanisms and therapeutic applications.
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Affiliation(s)
- Takamitsu A Kato
- Department of Environmental & Radiological Health Sciences, Colorado State University, Fort Collins, CO, 80523, USA.
| | - Junko Maeda
- Department of Environmental & Radiological Health Sciences, Colorado State University, Fort Collins, CO, 80523, USA
| | - Hiroya Watanabe
- Department of Environmental & Radiological Health Sciences, Colorado State University, Fort Collins, CO, 80523, USA; Faculty of Fukuoka Medical Technology, Teikyo University, Fukuoka, 836-0037, Japan
| | - Shinji Kawamura
- Faculty of Fukuoka Medical Technology, Teikyo University, Fukuoka, 836-0037, Japan
| | - Paul F Wilson
- Biological Sciences Division, Pacific Northwest National Laboratory, Richland, WA, 99352, USA
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4
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Previtali V, Bagnolini G, Ciamarone A, Ferrandi G, Rinaldi F, Myers SH, Roberti M, Cavalli A. New Horizons of Synthetic Lethality in Cancer: Current Development and Future Perspectives. J Med Chem 2024; 67:11488-11521. [PMID: 38955347 DOI: 10.1021/acs.jmedchem.4c00113] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 07/04/2024]
Abstract
In recent years, synthetic lethality has been recognized as a solid paradigm for anticancer therapies. The discovery of a growing number of synthetic lethal targets has led to a significant expansion in the use of synthetic lethality, far beyond poly(ADP-ribose) polymerase inhibitors used to treat BRCA1/2-defective tumors. In particular, molecular targets within DNA damage response have provided a source of inhibitors that have rapidly reached clinical trials. This Perspective focuses on the most recent progress in synthetic lethal targets and their inhibitors, within and beyond the DNA damage response, describing their design and associated therapeutic strategies. We will conclude by discussing the current challenges and new opportunities for this promising field of research, to stimulate discussion in the medicinal chemistry community, allowing the investigation of synthetic lethality to reach its full potential.
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Affiliation(s)
- Viola Previtali
- Computational & Chemical Biology, Istituto Italiano di Tecnologia, 16163 Genova, Italy
| | - Greta Bagnolini
- Department of Pharmacy and Biotechnology, University of Bologna, 40126 Bologna, Italy
| | - Andrea Ciamarone
- Computational & Chemical Biology, Istituto Italiano di Tecnologia, 16163 Genova, Italy
- Department of Pharmacy and Biotechnology, University of Bologna, 40126 Bologna, Italy
| | - Giovanni Ferrandi
- Computational & Chemical Biology, Istituto Italiano di Tecnologia, 16163 Genova, Italy
- Department of Pharmacy and Biotechnology, University of Bologna, 40126 Bologna, Italy
| | - Francesco Rinaldi
- Computational & Chemical Biology, Istituto Italiano di Tecnologia, 16163 Genova, Italy
| | - Samuel Harry Myers
- Computational & Chemical Biology, Istituto Italiano di Tecnologia, 16163 Genova, Italy
| | - Marinella Roberti
- Department of Pharmacy and Biotechnology, University of Bologna, 40126 Bologna, Italy
| | - Andrea Cavalli
- Computational & Chemical Biology, Istituto Italiano di Tecnologia, 16163 Genova, Italy
- Department of Pharmacy and Biotechnology, University of Bologna, 40126 Bologna, Italy
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5
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Qin T, Hu Z, Zhang L, Lu F, Xiao R, Liu Y, Fan J, Guo E, Yang B, Fu Y, Zhuang X, Kang X, Wu Z, Fang Z, Cui Y, Hu X, Yin J, Yan M, Li F, Song K, Chen G, Sun C. Genomic profiling of a multi-lineage and multi-passage patient-derived xenograft biobank reflects heterogeneity of ovarian cancer. Cell Rep Med 2024; 5:101631. [PMID: 38986623 PMCID: PMC11293341 DOI: 10.1016/j.xcrm.2024.101631] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/09/2024] [Revised: 04/16/2024] [Accepted: 06/07/2024] [Indexed: 07/12/2024]
Abstract
Ovarian cancer (OC) manifests as a complex disease characterized by inter- and intra-patient heterogeneity. Despite enhanced biological and genetic insights, OC remains a recalcitrant malignancy with minimal survival improvement. Based on multi-site sampling and a multi-lineage patient-derived xenograft (PDX) establishment strategy, we present herein the establishment of a comprehensive PDX biobank from histologically and molecularly heterogeneous OC patients. Comprehensive profiling of matched PDX and patient samples demonstrates that PDXs closely recapitulate parental tumors. By leveraging multi-lineage models, we reveal that the previously reported genomic disparities of PDX could be mainly attributed to intra-patient spatial heterogeneity instead of substantial model-independent genomic evolution. Moreover, DNA damage response pathway inhibitor (DDRi) screening uncovers heterogeneous responses across models. Prolonged iterative drug exposure recapitulates acquired drug resistance in initially sensitive models. Meanwhile, interrogation of induced drug-resistant (IDR) models reveals that suppressed interferon (IFN) response and activated Wnt/β-catenin signaling contribute to acquired DDRi drug resistance.
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Affiliation(s)
- Tianyu Qin
- Department of Gynecological Oncology, Tongji Hospital, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, Hubei 430030, P.R. China; National Clinical Research Center for Obstetrics and Gynecology, Cancer Biology Research Center (Key Laboratory of the Ministry of Education), Tongji Hospital, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, Hubei 430010, P.R. China
| | - Zhe Hu
- Department of Gynecological Oncology, Tongji Hospital, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, Hubei 430030, P.R. China; National Clinical Research Center for Obstetrics and Gynecology, Cancer Biology Research Center (Key Laboratory of the Ministry of Education), Tongji Hospital, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, Hubei 430010, P.R. China
| | - Li Zhang
- Department of Gynecological Oncology, Tongji Hospital, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, Hubei 430030, P.R. China; National Clinical Research Center for Obstetrics and Gynecology, Cancer Biology Research Center (Key Laboratory of the Ministry of Education), Tongji Hospital, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, Hubei 430010, P.R. China
| | - Funian Lu
- Department of Gynecological Oncology, Tongji Hospital, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, Hubei 430030, P.R. China; National Clinical Research Center for Obstetrics and Gynecology, Cancer Biology Research Center (Key Laboratory of the Ministry of Education), Tongji Hospital, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, Hubei 430010, P.R. China
| | - Rourou Xiao
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Zhongnan Hospital of Wuhan University, Wuhan, Hubei 430071, P.R. China
| | - Yiting Liu
- Department of Gynecological Oncology, Tongji Hospital, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, Hubei 430030, P.R. China; National Clinical Research Center for Obstetrics and Gynecology, Cancer Biology Research Center (Key Laboratory of the Ministry of Education), Tongji Hospital, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, Hubei 430010, P.R. China
| | - Junpeng Fan
- Department of Gynecological Oncology, Tongji Hospital, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, Hubei 430030, P.R. China; National Clinical Research Center for Obstetrics and Gynecology, Cancer Biology Research Center (Key Laboratory of the Ministry of Education), Tongji Hospital, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, Hubei 430010, P.R. China
| | - Ensong Guo
- Department of Gynecological Oncology, Tongji Hospital, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, Hubei 430030, P.R. China; National Clinical Research Center for Obstetrics and Gynecology, Cancer Biology Research Center (Key Laboratory of the Ministry of Education), Tongji Hospital, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, Hubei 430010, P.R. China
| | - Bin Yang
- Department of Gynecological Oncology, Tongji Hospital, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, Hubei 430030, P.R. China; National Clinical Research Center for Obstetrics and Gynecology, Cancer Biology Research Center (Key Laboratory of the Ministry of Education), Tongji Hospital, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, Hubei 430010, P.R. China
| | - Yu Fu
- Department of Gynecological Oncology, Tongji Hospital, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, Hubei 430030, P.R. China; National Clinical Research Center for Obstetrics and Gynecology, Cancer Biology Research Center (Key Laboratory of the Ministry of Education), Tongji Hospital, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, Hubei 430010, P.R. China
| | - Xucui Zhuang
- Department of Gynecological Oncology, Tongji Hospital, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, Hubei 430030, P.R. China; National Clinical Research Center for Obstetrics and Gynecology, Cancer Biology Research Center (Key Laboratory of the Ministry of Education), Tongji Hospital, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, Hubei 430010, P.R. China
| | - Xiaoyan Kang
- Department of Gynecological Oncology, Tongji Hospital, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, Hubei 430030, P.R. China; National Clinical Research Center for Obstetrics and Gynecology, Cancer Biology Research Center (Key Laboratory of the Ministry of Education), Tongji Hospital, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, Hubei 430010, P.R. China
| | - Zimeng Wu
- Department of Gynecological Oncology, Tongji Hospital, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, Hubei 430030, P.R. China; National Clinical Research Center for Obstetrics and Gynecology, Cancer Biology Research Center (Key Laboratory of the Ministry of Education), Tongji Hospital, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, Hubei 430010, P.R. China
| | - Zixuan Fang
- Department of Gynecological Oncology, Tongji Hospital, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, Hubei 430030, P.R. China; National Clinical Research Center for Obstetrics and Gynecology, Cancer Biology Research Center (Key Laboratory of the Ministry of Education), Tongji Hospital, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, Hubei 430010, P.R. China
| | - Yaoyuan Cui
- Department of Gynecological Oncology, Tongji Hospital, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, Hubei 430030, P.R. China; National Clinical Research Center for Obstetrics and Gynecology, Cancer Biology Research Center (Key Laboratory of the Ministry of Education), Tongji Hospital, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, Hubei 430010, P.R. China
| | - Xingyuan Hu
- Department of Gynecological Oncology, Tongji Hospital, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, Hubei 430030, P.R. China; National Clinical Research Center for Obstetrics and Gynecology, Cancer Biology Research Center (Key Laboratory of the Ministry of Education), Tongji Hospital, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, Hubei 430010, P.R. China
| | - Jingjing Yin
- Department of Gynecological Oncology, Tongji Hospital, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, Hubei 430030, P.R. China; National Clinical Research Center for Obstetrics and Gynecology, Cancer Biology Research Center (Key Laboratory of the Ministry of Education), Tongji Hospital, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, Hubei 430010, P.R. China
| | - Miao Yan
- Department of Gynecological Oncology, Tongji Hospital, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, Hubei 430030, P.R. China; National Clinical Research Center for Obstetrics and Gynecology, Cancer Biology Research Center (Key Laboratory of the Ministry of Education), Tongji Hospital, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, Hubei 430010, P.R. China
| | - Fuxia Li
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, First Affiliated Hospital of Shihezi University School of Medicine, Shihezi, Xinjiang 832008, P.R. China
| | - Kun Song
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Qilu Hospital of Shandong University, Jinan, Shandong 250012, P.R. China.
| | - Gang Chen
- Department of Gynecological Oncology, Tongji Hospital, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, Hubei 430030, P.R. China; National Clinical Research Center for Obstetrics and Gynecology, Cancer Biology Research Center (Key Laboratory of the Ministry of Education), Tongji Hospital, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, Hubei 430010, P.R. China.
| | - Chaoyang Sun
- Department of Gynecological Oncology, Tongji Hospital, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, Hubei 430030, P.R. China; National Clinical Research Center for Obstetrics and Gynecology, Cancer Biology Research Center (Key Laboratory of the Ministry of Education), Tongji Hospital, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, Hubei 430010, P.R. China; Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Qilu Hospital of Shandong University, Jinan, Shandong 250012, P.R. China.
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Jo U, Arakawa Y, Zimmermann A, Taniyama D, Mizunuma M, Jenkins LM, Maity T, Kumar S, Zenke FT, Takebe N, Pommier Y. The Novel ATR Inhibitor M1774 Induces Replication Protein Overexpression and Broad Synergy with DNA-targeted Anticancer Drugs. Mol Cancer Ther 2024; 23:911-923. [PMID: 38466804 DOI: 10.1158/1535-7163.mct-23-0402] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/25/2023] [Revised: 12/09/2023] [Accepted: 02/29/2024] [Indexed: 03/13/2024]
Abstract
Ataxia telangiectasia and Rad3-related (ATR) checkpoint kinase inhibitors are in clinical trials. Here we explored the molecular pharmacology and therapeutic combination strategies of the oral ATR inhibitor M1774 (Tuvusertib) with DNA-damaging agents (DDA). As single agent, M1774 suppressed cancer cell viability at nanomolar concentrations, showing greater activity than ceralasertib and berzosertib, but less potency than gartisertib and elimusertib in the small cell lung cancer H146, H82, and DMS114 cell lines. M1774 also efficiently blocked the activation of the ATR-CHK1 checkpoint pathway caused by replication stress induced by TOP1 inhibitors. Combination with non-toxic dose of M1774 enhanced TOP1 inhibitor-induced cancer cell death by enabling unscheduled replication upon replicative damage, thereby increasing genome instability. Tandem mass tag-based quantitative proteomics uncovered that M1774, in the presence of DDA, forces the expression of proteins activating replication (CDC45) and G2-M progression (PLK1 and CCNB1). In particular, the fork protection complex proteins (TIMELESS and TIPIN) were enriched. Low dose of M1774 was found highly synergistic with a broad spectrum of clinical DDAs including TOP1 inhibitors (SN-38/irinotecan, topotecan, exatecan, and exatecan), the TOP2 inhibitor etoposide, cisplatin, the RNA polymerase II inhibitor lurbinectedin, and the PARP inhibitor talazoparib in various models including cancer cell lines, patient-derived organoids, and mouse xenograft models. Furthermore, we demonstrate that M1774 reverses chemoresistance to anticancer DDAs in cancer cells lacking SLFN11 expression, suggesting that SLFN11 can be utilized for patient selection in upcoming clinical trials.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ukhyun Jo
- Developmental Therapeutics Branch and Pediatric Oncology Branch, Center for Cancer Research, NCI, NIH, Bethesda, Maryland
- Pediatric Oncology Branch, Center for Cancer Research, NCI, NIH, Bethesda, Maryland
| | - Yasuhiro Arakawa
- Developmental Therapeutics Branch and Pediatric Oncology Branch, Center for Cancer Research, NCI, NIH, Bethesda, Maryland
| | | | - Daiki Taniyama
- Developmental Therapeutics Branch and Pediatric Oncology Branch, Center for Cancer Research, NCI, NIH, Bethesda, Maryland
| | - Makito Mizunuma
- Developmental Therapeutics Branch and Pediatric Oncology Branch, Center for Cancer Research, NCI, NIH, Bethesda, Maryland
| | - Lisa M Jenkins
- Laboratory of Cell Biology, Center for Cancer Research, NCI, NIH, Bethesda, Maryland
| | - Tapan Maity
- Laboratory of Cell Biology, Center for Cancer Research, NCI, NIH, Bethesda, Maryland
| | - Suresh Kumar
- Developmental Therapeutics Branch and Pediatric Oncology Branch, Center for Cancer Research, NCI, NIH, Bethesda, Maryland
| | | | - Naoko Takebe
- Developmental Therapeutics Branch and Division of Cancer Treatment and Diagnosis, NCI, NIH, Bethesda, Maryland
| | - Yves Pommier
- Developmental Therapeutics Branch and Pediatric Oncology Branch, Center for Cancer Research, NCI, NIH, Bethesda, Maryland
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7
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Hu YM, Liu XC, Hu L, Dong ZW, Yao HY, Wang YJ, Zhao WJ, Xiang YK, Liu Y, Wang HB, Yin QK. Inhibition of the ATR-DNAPKcs-RB axis drives G1/S-phase transition and sensitizes triple-negative breast cancer (TNBC) to DNA holliday junctions. Biochem Pharmacol 2024; 225:116310. [PMID: 38788960 DOI: 10.1016/j.bcp.2024.116310] [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: 02/05/2024] [Revised: 05/03/2024] [Accepted: 05/21/2024] [Indexed: 05/26/2024]
Abstract
Targeting the DNA damage response (DDR) is a promising strategy in oncotherapy, as most tumor cells are sensitive to excess damage due to their repair defects. Ataxia telangiectasia mutated and RAD3-related protein (ATR) is a damage response signal transduction sensor, and its therapeutic potential in tumor cells needs to be precisely investigated. Herein, we identified a new axis that could be targeted by ATR inhibitors to decrease the DNA-dependent protein kinase catalytic subunit (DNAPKcs), downregulate the expression of the retinoblastoma (RB), and drive G1/S-phase transition. Four-way DNA Holliday junctions (FJs) assembled in this process could trigger S-phase arrest and induce lethal chromosome damage in RB-positive triple-negative breast cancer (TNBC) cells. Furthermore, these unrepaired junctions also exerted toxic effects to RB-deficient TNBC cells when the homologous recombination repair (HRR) was inhibited. This study proposes a precise strategy for treating TNBC by targeting the DDR and extends our understanding of ATR and HJ in tumor treatment.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yue-Miao Hu
- School of Pharmacy, Key Laboratory of Molecular Pharmacology and Drug Evaluation (Yantai University), Ministry of Education, Collaborative Innovation Center of Advanced Drug Delivery System and Biotech Drugs in Universities of Shandong, Basic Science Research Center Base (Pharmaceutical Science), Yantai University, Yantai 264005, China
| | - Xue-Cun Liu
- School of Pharmacy, Key Laboratory of Molecular Pharmacology and Drug Evaluation (Yantai University), Ministry of Education, Collaborative Innovation Center of Advanced Drug Delivery System and Biotech Drugs in Universities of Shandong, Basic Science Research Center Base (Pharmaceutical Science), Yantai University, Yantai 264005, China
| | - Lei Hu
- School of Pharmacy, Key Laboratory of Molecular Pharmacology and Drug Evaluation (Yantai University), Ministry of Education, Collaborative Innovation Center of Advanced Drug Delivery System and Biotech Drugs in Universities of Shandong, Basic Science Research Center Base (Pharmaceutical Science), Yantai University, Yantai 264005, China
| | - Zhi-Wen Dong
- School of Pharmacy, Key Laboratory of Molecular Pharmacology and Drug Evaluation (Yantai University), Ministry of Education, Collaborative Innovation Center of Advanced Drug Delivery System and Biotech Drugs in Universities of Shandong, Basic Science Research Center Base (Pharmaceutical Science), Yantai University, Yantai 264005, China; Bohai Rim Advanced Research Institute for Drug Discovery, Yantai, China
| | - Hong-Ying Yao
- School of Pharmacy, Key Laboratory of Molecular Pharmacology and Drug Evaluation (Yantai University), Ministry of Education, Collaborative Innovation Center of Advanced Drug Delivery System and Biotech Drugs in Universities of Shandong, Basic Science Research Center Base (Pharmaceutical Science), Yantai University, Yantai 264005, China
| | - Ying-Jie Wang
- School of Pharmacy, Key Laboratory of Molecular Pharmacology and Drug Evaluation (Yantai University), Ministry of Education, Collaborative Innovation Center of Advanced Drug Delivery System and Biotech Drugs in Universities of Shandong, Basic Science Research Center Base (Pharmaceutical Science), Yantai University, Yantai 264005, China
| | - Wen-Jing Zhao
- School of Pharmacy, Key Laboratory of Molecular Pharmacology and Drug Evaluation (Yantai University), Ministry of Education, Collaborative Innovation Center of Advanced Drug Delivery System and Biotech Drugs in Universities of Shandong, Basic Science Research Center Base (Pharmaceutical Science), Yantai University, Yantai 264005, China
| | - Yu-Ke Xiang
- Guangzhou Municipal and Guangdong Provincial Key Laboratory of Molecular Target & Clinical Pharmacology, the NMPA and State Key Laboratory of Respiratory Disease, School of Pharmaceutical Sciences and the Fifth Affiliated Hospital, Guangzhou Medical University, Guangzhou, China
| | - Yi Liu
- School of Chemistry and Chemical Engineering, Yantai University, Yantai 264005, China
| | - Hong-Bo Wang
- School of Pharmacy, Key Laboratory of Molecular Pharmacology and Drug Evaluation (Yantai University), Ministry of Education, Collaborative Innovation Center of Advanced Drug Delivery System and Biotech Drugs in Universities of Shandong, Basic Science Research Center Base (Pharmaceutical Science), Yantai University, Yantai 264005, China.
| | - Qi-Kun Yin
- School of Pharmacy, Key Laboratory of Molecular Pharmacology and Drug Evaluation (Yantai University), Ministry of Education, Collaborative Innovation Center of Advanced Drug Delivery System and Biotech Drugs in Universities of Shandong, Basic Science Research Center Base (Pharmaceutical Science), Yantai University, Yantai 264005, China.
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8
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Gassib N, Issa H, Loubaki L, Behaz S, Almutairi MH, Rouabhia M, Semlali A. Cellular mechanisms mediating the anti-cancer effects of carnosol on gingiva carcinoma. Sci Rep 2024; 14:12266. [PMID: 38806527 PMCID: PMC11133392 DOI: 10.1038/s41598-024-60797-x] [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] [Accepted: 04/26/2024] [Indexed: 05/30/2024] Open
Abstract
Carnosol, a rosemary polyphenol, displays anticancer properties and is suggested as a safer alternative to conventional surgery, radiotherapy, and chemotherapy. Given that its effects on gingiva carcinoma have not yet been investigated, the aim of this study was to explore its anti-tumor selectivity and to unravel its underlying mechanisms of action. Hence, oral tongue and gingiva carcinoma cell lines exposed to carnosol were analyzed to estimate cytotoxicity, cell viability, cell proliferation, and colony formation potential as compared with those of normal cells. Key cell cycle and apoptotic markers were also measured. Finally, cell migration, oxidative stress, and crucial cell signaling pathways were assessed. Selective anti-gingiva carcinoma activity was disclosed. Overall, carnosol mediated colony formation and proliferation suppression in addition to cytotoxicity induction. Cell cycle arrest was highlighted by the disruption of the c-myc oncogene/p53 tumor suppressor balance. Carnosol also increased apoptosis, oxidative stress, and antioxidant activity. On a larger scale, the alteration of cell cycle and apoptotic profiles was also demonstrated by QPCR array. This was most likely achieved by controlling the STAT5, ERK1/2, p38, and NF-ĸB signaling pathways. Lastly, carnosol reduced inflammation and invasion ability by modulating IL-6 and MMP9/TIMP-1 axes. This study establishes a robust foundation, urging extensive inquiry both in vivo and in clinical settings, to substantiate the efficacy of carnosol in managing gingiva carcinoma.
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Affiliation(s)
- Nassima Gassib
- Groupe de recherche en écologie buccale, Faculté de médecine dentaire, Université Laval, Québec, QC, G1V 0A6, Canada
| | - Hawraa Issa
- Groupe de recherche en écologie buccale, Faculté de médecine dentaire, Université Laval, Québec, QC, G1V 0A6, Canada
| | - Lionel Loubaki
- Héma-Québec, 1070, Avenue des Sciences-de-la-Vie, Québec, QC, G1V 5C3, Canada
| | - Sarah Behaz
- Groupe de recherche en écologie buccale, Faculté de médecine dentaire, Université Laval, Québec, QC, G1V 0A6, Canada
| | - Mikhlid H Almutairi
- Zoology Department, College of Science, King Saud University, P.O. Box 2455, 11451, Riyadh, Saudi Arabia
| | - Mahmoud Rouabhia
- Groupe de recherche en écologie buccale, Faculté de médecine dentaire, Université Laval, Québec, QC, G1V 0A6, Canada
| | - Abdelhabib Semlali
- Groupe de recherche en écologie buccale, Faculté de médecine dentaire, Université Laval, Québec, QC, G1V 0A6, Canada.
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9
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Yap TA, Tolcher AW, Plummer R, Mukker JK, Enderlin M, Hicking C, Grombacher T, Locatelli G, Szucs Z, Gounaris I, de Bono JS. First-in-Human Study of the Ataxia Telangiectasia and Rad3-Related (ATR) Inhibitor Tuvusertib (M1774) as Monotherapy in Patients with Solid Tumors. Clin Cancer Res 2024; 30:2057-2067. [PMID: 38407317 PMCID: PMC11094421 DOI: 10.1158/1078-0432.ccr-23-2409] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/10/2023] [Revised: 10/26/2023] [Accepted: 02/21/2024] [Indexed: 02/27/2024]
Abstract
PURPOSE Tuvusertib (M1774) is a potent, selective, orally administered ataxia telangiectasia and Rad3-related (ATR) protein kinase inhibitor. This first-in-human study (NCT04170153) evaluated safety, tolerability, maximum tolerated dose (MTD), recommended dose for expansion (RDE), pharmacokinetics (PK), pharmacodynamics (PD), and preliminary efficacy of tuvusertib monotherapy. PATIENTS AND METHODS Ascending tuvusertib doses were evaluated in 55 patients with metastatic or locally advanced unresectable solid tumors. A safety monitoring committee determined dose escalation based on PK, PD, and safety data guided by a Bayesian 2-parameter logistic regression model. Molecular responses (MR) were assessed in circulating tumor DNA samples. RESULTS Most common grade ≥3 treatment-emergent adverse events were anemia (36%), neutropenia, and lymphopenia (both 7%). Eleven patients experienced dose-limiting toxicities, most commonly grade 2 (n = 2) or 3 (n = 8) anemia. No persistent effects on blood immune cell populations were observed. The RDE was 180 mg tuvusertib QD (once daily), 2 weeks on/1 week off treatment, which was better tolerated than the MTD (180 mg QD continuously). Tuvusertib median time to peak plasma concentration ranged from 0.5 to 3.5 hours and mean elimination half-life from 1.2 to 5.6 hours. Exposure-related PD analysis suggested maximum target engagement at ≥130 mg tuvusertib QD. Tuvusertib induced frequent MRs in the predicted efficacious dose range; MRs were enriched in patients with radiological disease stabilization, and complete MRs were detected for mutations in ARID1A, ATRX, and DAXX. One patient with platinum- and PARP inhibitor-resistant BRCA wild-type ovarian cancer achieved an unconfirmed RECIST v1.1 partial response. CONCLUSIONS Tuvusertib demonstrated manageable safety and exposure-related target engagement. Further clinical evaluation of tuvusertib is ongoing.
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Affiliation(s)
- Timothy A. Yap
- University of Texas MD Anderson Cancer Center, Houston, Texas
| | | | - Ruth Plummer
- Newcastle University and Northern Centre for Cancer Care, Newcastle Hospitals NHS Trust, Newcastle Upon Tyne, United Kingdom
| | | | - Marta Enderlin
- The Healthcare Business of Merck KGaA, Darmstadt, Germany
| | | | | | | | - Zoltan Szucs
- Merck Serono Ltd., Feltham, UK, an affiliate of Merck KGaA, Darmstadt, Germany
| | - Ioannis Gounaris
- Merck Serono Ltd., Feltham, UK, an affiliate of Merck KGaA, Darmstadt, Germany
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10
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Zhao SJ, Prior D, Heske CM, Vasquez JC. Therapeutic Targeting of DNA Repair Pathways in Pediatric Extracranial Solid Tumors: Current State and Implications for Immunotherapy. Cancers (Basel) 2024; 16:1648. [PMID: 38730598 PMCID: PMC11083679 DOI: 10.3390/cancers16091648] [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: 04/05/2024] [Revised: 04/21/2024] [Accepted: 04/22/2024] [Indexed: 05/13/2024] Open
Abstract
DNA damage is fundamental to tumorigenesis, and the inability to repair DNA damage is a hallmark of many human cancers. DNA is repaired via the DNA damage repair (DDR) apparatus, which includes five major pathways. DDR deficiencies in cancers give rise to potential therapeutic targets, as cancers harboring DDR deficiencies become increasingly dependent on alternative DDR pathways for survival. In this review, we summarize the DDR apparatus, and examine the current state of research efforts focused on identifying vulnerabilities in DDR pathways that can be therapeutically exploited in pediatric extracranial solid tumors. We assess the potential for synergistic combinations of different DDR inhibitors as well as combinations of DDR inhibitors with chemotherapy. Lastly, we discuss the immunomodulatory implications of targeting DDR pathways and the potential for using DDR inhibitors to enhance tumor immunogenicity, with the goal of improving the response to immune checkpoint blockade in pediatric solid tumors. We review the ongoing and future research into DDR in pediatric tumors and the subsequent pediatric clinical trials that will be critical to further elucidate the efficacy of the approaches targeting DDR.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sophia J. Zhao
- Department of Pediatric Hematology/Oncology, Yale University School of Medicine, New Haven, CT 06510, USA; (S.J.Z.); (D.P.)
| | - Daniel Prior
- Department of Pediatric Hematology/Oncology, Yale University School of Medicine, New Haven, CT 06510, USA; (S.J.Z.); (D.P.)
| | - Christine M. Heske
- Pediatric Oncology Branch, National Cancer Institute, National Institutes of Health, Bethesda, MD 20892, USA;
| | - Juan C. Vasquez
- Department of Pediatric Hematology/Oncology, Yale University School of Medicine, New Haven, CT 06510, USA; (S.J.Z.); (D.P.)
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11
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Justice JL, Reed TJ, Phelan B, Greco TM, Hutton JE, Cristea IM. DNA-PK and ATM drive phosphorylation signatures that antagonistically regulate cytokine responses to herpesvirus infection or DNA damage. Cell Syst 2024; 15:339-361.e8. [PMID: 38593799 PMCID: PMC11098675 DOI: 10.1016/j.cels.2024.03.003] [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: 08/17/2023] [Revised: 01/09/2024] [Accepted: 03/15/2024] [Indexed: 04/11/2024]
Abstract
The DNA-dependent protein kinase, DNA-PK, is an essential regulator of DNA damage repair. DNA-PK-driven phosphorylation events and the activated DNA damage response (DDR) pathways are also components of antiviral intrinsic and innate immune responses. Yet, it is not clear whether and how the DNA-PK response differs between these two forms of nucleic acid stress-DNA damage and DNA virus infection. Here, we define DNA-PK substrates and the signature cellular phosphoproteome response to DNA damage or infection with the nuclear-replicating DNA herpesvirus, HSV-1. We establish that DNA-PK negatively regulates the ataxia-telangiectasia-mutated (ATM) DDR kinase during viral infection. In turn, ATM blocks the binding of DNA-PK and the nuclear DNA sensor IFI16 to viral DNA, thereby inhibiting cytokine responses. However, following DNA damage, DNA-PK enhances ATM activity, which is required for IFN-β expression. These findings demonstrate that the DDR autoregulates cytokine expression through the opposing modulation of DDR kinases.
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Affiliation(s)
- Joshua L Justice
- Department of Molecular Biology, Princeton University, Washington Road, Princeton, NJ 08544, USA
| | - Tavis J Reed
- Department of Molecular Biology, Princeton University, Washington Road, Princeton, NJ 08544, USA
| | - Brett Phelan
- Department of Molecular Biology, Princeton University, Washington Road, Princeton, NJ 08544, USA
| | - Todd M Greco
- Department of Molecular Biology, Princeton University, Washington Road, Princeton, NJ 08544, USA
| | - Josiah E Hutton
- Department of Molecular Biology, Princeton University, Washington Road, Princeton, NJ 08544, USA
| | - Ileana M Cristea
- Department of Molecular Biology, Princeton University, Washington Road, Princeton, NJ 08544, USA.
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12
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Burris HA, Berlin J, Arkenau T, Cote GM, Lolkema MP, Ferrer-Playan J, Kalapur A, Bolleddula J, Locatelli G, Goddemeier T, Gounaris I, de Bono J. A phase I study of ATR inhibitor gartisertib (M4344) as a single agent and in combination with carboplatin in patients with advanced solid tumours. Br J Cancer 2024; 130:1131-1140. [PMID: 38287179 PMCID: PMC10991509 DOI: 10.1038/s41416-023-02436-2] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/07/2023] [Revised: 08/31/2023] [Accepted: 09/11/2023] [Indexed: 01/31/2024] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Gartisertib is an oral inhibitor of ataxia telangiectasia and Rad3-related protein (ATR), a key kinase of the DNA damage response. We aimed to determine the safety and tolerability of gartisertib ± carboplatin in patients with advanced solid tumours. METHODS This phase I open-label, multicenter, first-in-human study comprised four gartisertib cohorts: A (dose escalation [DE]; Q2W); A2 (DE; QD/BID); B1 (DE+carboplatin); and C (biomarker-selected patients). RESULTS Overall, 97 patients were enroled into cohorts A (n = 42), A2 (n = 26), B1 (n = 16) and C (n = 13). The maximum tolerated dose and recommended phase II dose (RP2D) were not declared for cohorts A or B1. In cohort A2, the RP2D for gartisertib was determined as 250 mg QD. Gartisertib was generally well-tolerated; however, unexpected increased blood bilirubin in all study cohorts precluded further DE. Investigations showed that gartisertib and its metabolite M26 inhibit UGT1A1-mediated bilirubin glucuronidation in human but not dog or rat liver microsomes. Prolonged partial response (n = 1 [cohort B1]) and stable disease >6 months (n = 3) did not appear to be associated with biomarker status. Exposure generally increased dose-dependently without accumulation. CONCLUSION Gartisertib was generally well-tolerated at lower doses; however, unexpected liver toxicity prevented further DE, potentially limiting antitumour activity. Gartisertib development was subsequently discontinued. CLINICALTRIALS GOV: NCT02278250.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Jordan Berlin
- Division of Hematology/Oncology, Vanderbilt-Ingram Cancer Center, Nashville, TN, USA
| | | | - Gregory M Cote
- Division of Hematology and Oncology, Mass General Cancer Center, Boston, MA, USA
| | - Martijn P Lolkema
- Department of Medical Oncology, Erasmus MC Cancer Institute, Utrecht, Netherlands
- Amgen Inc., Thousand Oaks, CA, USA
| | - Jordi Ferrer-Playan
- Global Clinical Development, Ares Trading SA, an affiliate of Merck KGaA, Eysins, Switzerland
| | - Anup Kalapur
- Global Patient Safety Oncology, Merck Healthcare KGaA, Darmstadt, Germany
| | - Jayaprakasam Bolleddula
- Quantitative Pharmacology, EMD Serono Research & Development Institute, Inc., an affiliate of Merck KGaA, Billerica, MA, USA
| | | | | | - Ioannis Gounaris
- Global Clinical Development, Merck Serono Ltd., an affiliate of Merck KGaA, Feltham, UK
| | - Johann de Bono
- Division of Clinical Studies, Institute of Cancer Research, London, UK
- Royal Marsden, Hospital, London, UK
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13
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Huang L, Shao J, Lai W, Gu H, Yang J, Shi S, Wufoyrwoth S, Song Z, Zou Y, Xu Y, Zhu Q. Discovery of the first ataxia telangiectasia and Rad3-related (ATR) degraders for cancer treatment. Eur J Med Chem 2024; 267:116159. [PMID: 38325007 DOI: 10.1016/j.ejmech.2024.116159] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/13/2023] [Revised: 01/12/2024] [Accepted: 01/16/2024] [Indexed: 02/09/2024]
Abstract
The first examples of ataxia telangiectasia and Rad3-related (ATR) PROTACs were designed and synthesized. Among them, the most potent degrader, ZS-7, demonstrated selective and effective ATR degradation in ATM-deficient LoVo cells, with a DC50 value of 0.53 μM. Proteasome-mediated ATR degradation by ZS-7 lasted approximately 12 h after washout in the LoVo cell lines. Notably, ZS-7 demonstrated reasonable PK profiles and, as a single agent or in combination with cisplatin, showed improved antitumor activity and safety profiles compared with the parent inhibitor AZD6738 in a xenograft mouse model of LoVo human colorectal cancer cells upon intraperitoneal (i.p.) administration.
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Affiliation(s)
- Lei Huang
- State Key Laboratory of Natural Medicines, China Pharmaceutical University, Nanjing, 211198, China; Department of Pharmacology and Medicinal Chemistry, Jiangsu Vocational College of Medicine, Yancheng, 224005, China
| | - Jialu Shao
- State Key Laboratory of Natural Medicines, China Pharmaceutical University, Nanjing, 211198, China
| | - Wenwen Lai
- State Key Laboratory of Natural Medicines, China Pharmaceutical University, Nanjing, 211198, China
| | - Hongfeng Gu
- State Key Laboratory of Natural Medicines, China Pharmaceutical University, Nanjing, 211198, China
| | - Jieping Yang
- State Key Laboratory of Natural Medicines, China Pharmaceutical University, Nanjing, 211198, China
| | - Shi Shi
- State Key Laboratory of Natural Medicines, China Pharmaceutical University, Nanjing, 211198, China
| | - Shepherd Wufoyrwoth
- State Key Laboratory of Natural Medicines, China Pharmaceutical University, Nanjing, 211198, China
| | - Zhe Song
- China Pharmaceutical University Center for Analysis and Testing, China Pharmaceutical University, Nanjing, 211198, China
| | - Yi Zou
- State Key Laboratory of Natural Medicines, China Pharmaceutical University, Nanjing, 211198, China.
| | - Yungen Xu
- State Key Laboratory of Natural Medicines, China Pharmaceutical University, Nanjing, 211198, China; Jiangsu Key Laboratory of Drug Design and Optimization, Department of Medicinal Chemistry, China Pharmaceutical University, Nanjing, 211198, China.
| | - Qihua Zhu
- State Key Laboratory of Natural Medicines, China Pharmaceutical University, Nanjing, 211198, China; Jiangsu Key Laboratory of Drug Design and Optimization, Department of Medicinal Chemistry, China Pharmaceutical University, Nanjing, 211198, China.
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14
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Alfayomy AM, Ashry R, Kansy AG, Sarnow AC, Erdmann F, Schmidt M, Krämer OH, Sippl W. Design, synthesis, and biological characterization of proteolysis targeting chimera (PROTACs) for the ataxia telangiectasia and RAD3-related (ATR) kinase. Eur J Med Chem 2024; 267:116167. [PMID: 38308949 DOI: 10.1016/j.ejmech.2024.116167] [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: 11/09/2023] [Revised: 01/12/2024] [Accepted: 01/21/2024] [Indexed: 02/05/2024]
Abstract
The Ataxia telangiectasia and RAD3-related (ATR) kinase is a key regulator of DNA replication stress responses and DNA-damage checkpoints. Several potent and selective ATR inhibitors are reported and four of them are currently in clinical trials in combination with radio- or chemotherapy. Based on the idea of degrading target proteins rather than inhibiting them, we designed, synthesized and biologically characterized a library of ATR-targeted proteolysis targeting chimera (PROTACs). Among the synthesized compounds, the lenalidomide-based PROTAC 42i was the most promising. In pancreatic and cervix cancer cells cancer cells, it reduced ATR to 40 % of the levels in untreated cells. 42i selectively degraded ATR through the proteasome, dependent on the E3 ubiquitin ligase component cereblon, and without affecting the associated kinases ATM and DNA-PKcs. 42i may be a promising candidate for further optimization and biological characterization in various cancer cells.
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Affiliation(s)
- Abdallah M Alfayomy
- Department of Medicinal Chemistry, Institute of Pharmacy, Martin-Luther-University of Halle-Wittenberg, 06120, Halle (Saale), Germany; Department of Pharmaceutical Chemistry, Faculty of Pharmacy, Al-Azhar University, Assiut, 71524, Egypt
| | - Ramy Ashry
- Department of Toxicology, University Medical Center, Johannes Gutenberg-University Mainz, 55131, Mainz, Germany; Department of Oral Pathology, Faculty of Dentistry, Mansoura University, Mansoura, 35516, Egypt
| | - Anita G Kansy
- Department of Toxicology, University Medical Center, Johannes Gutenberg-University Mainz, 55131, Mainz, Germany
| | - Anne-Christin Sarnow
- Department of Medicinal Chemistry, Institute of Pharmacy, Martin-Luther-University of Halle-Wittenberg, 06120, Halle (Saale), Germany
| | - Frank Erdmann
- Department of Medicinal Chemistry, Institute of Pharmacy, Martin-Luther-University of Halle-Wittenberg, 06120, Halle (Saale), Germany
| | - Matthias Schmidt
- Department of Medicinal Chemistry, Institute of Pharmacy, Martin-Luther-University of Halle-Wittenberg, 06120, Halle (Saale), Germany
| | - Oliver H Krämer
- Department of Toxicology, University Medical Center, Johannes Gutenberg-University Mainz, 55131, Mainz, Germany.
| | - Wolfgang Sippl
- Department of Medicinal Chemistry, Institute of Pharmacy, Martin-Luther-University of Halle-Wittenberg, 06120, Halle (Saale), Germany.
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15
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Liu L, Hu X, Feng J, Lei A, Huang S, Liu X, Liu H, Luo L, Yao W. Suppression of DNMT1 combined with ATM or ATR inhibitor as a therapeutic combination of acute myeloid leukemia. Anticancer Drugs 2024; 35:251-262. [PMID: 38164802 PMCID: PMC10833198 DOI: 10.1097/cad.0000000000001564] [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] [Accepted: 11/03/2023] [Indexed: 01/03/2024]
Abstract
The potential treatment option of targeting DNA methyltransferase 1 (DNMT1) has been explored, but further investigation is required to assess the efficacy of combination therapy in acute myeloid leukemia (AML). In this study, bioinformatics and online databases were utilized to select the combined therapeutic targets. The potential kinases associated with DNMT1-related genes in AML were analyzed using the Cancer Genome Atlas (TCGA) database and X2K Appyter (Expression2Kinases) database. In-vitro evaluations were conducted to assess the synergistic effects between DNMT1 and ATR/ATM in five AML cell lines (MOLM-16, NB-4, HEL 92.1.7, HEL, EOL-1). In our study, ATR and ATM are primarily the kinases associated with DNMT1-related genes in AML. We observed a significant upregulation of DNMT1, ATR, and ATM expression in AML tissues and cell lines. The five AML cell lines demonstrated sensitivity to monotherapy with GSK-368, AZD-1390, or AZD-6738 (EC50 value ranges from 5.461 to 7.349 nM, 5.821 to 10.120 nM, and 7.618 to 10.100 nM, respectively). A considerable synergistic effect was observed in AML cell lines when combining GSK-368 and AZD-1390, GSK-368 and AZD-6738, or AZD-1390 and AZD-6738, resulting in induced cell apoptosis and inhibited cell growth. DNMT1, ATM, and ATR possess potential as therapeutic targets for AML. Both individual targeting and combination targeting of these molecules have been confirmed as promising therapeutic approaches for AML.
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Affiliation(s)
- Lei Liu
- Department of Hematology and Oncology, The First People’s Hospital of Guiyang, Guiyang city, Guizhou Province, China
| | - Xiaoyan Hu
- Department of Hematology and Oncology, The First People’s Hospital of Guiyang, Guiyang city, Guizhou Province, China
| | - Jing Feng
- Department of Hematology and Oncology, The First People’s Hospital of Guiyang, Guiyang city, Guizhou Province, China
| | - Anhui Lei
- Department of Hematology and Oncology, The First People’s Hospital of Guiyang, Guiyang city, Guizhou Province, China
| | - Shiying Huang
- Department of Hematology and Oncology, The First People’s Hospital of Guiyang, Guiyang city, Guizhou Province, China
| | - Xian Liu
- Department of Hematology and Oncology, The First People’s Hospital of Guiyang, Guiyang city, Guizhou Province, China
| | - Hui Liu
- Department of Hematology and Oncology, The First People’s Hospital of Guiyang, Guiyang city, Guizhou Province, China
| | - Lan Luo
- Department of Hematology and Oncology, The First People’s Hospital of Guiyang, Guiyang city, Guizhou Province, China
| | - Wenyan Yao
- Department of Hematology and Oncology, The First People’s Hospital of Guiyang, Guiyang city, Guizhou Province, China
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16
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Stracker TH, Osagie OI, Escorcia FE, Citrin DE. Exploiting the DNA Damage Response for Prostate Cancer Therapy. Cancers (Basel) 2023; 16:83. [PMID: 38201511 PMCID: PMC10777950 DOI: 10.3390/cancers16010083] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/18/2023] [Revised: 12/14/2023] [Accepted: 12/20/2023] [Indexed: 01/12/2024] Open
Abstract
Prostate cancers that progress despite androgen deprivation develop into castration-resistant prostate cancer, a fatal disease with few treatment options. In this review, we discuss the current understanding of prostate cancer subtypes and alterations in the DNA damage response (DDR) that can predispose to the development of prostate cancer and affect its progression. We identify barriers to conventional treatments, such as radiotherapy, and discuss the development of new therapies, many of which target the DDR or take advantage of recurring genetic alterations in the DDR. We place this in the context of advances in understanding the genetic variation and immune landscape of CRPC that could help guide their use in future treatment strategies. Finally, we discuss several new and emerging agents that may advance the treatment of lethal disease, highlighting selected clinical trials.
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Affiliation(s)
- Travis H. Stracker
- Radiation Oncology Branch, Center for Cancer Research, National Cancer Institute, National Institutes of Health, Bethesda, MD 20892, USA; (O.I.O.); (F.E.E.); (D.E.C.)
| | - Oloruntoba I. Osagie
- Radiation Oncology Branch, Center for Cancer Research, National Cancer Institute, National Institutes of Health, Bethesda, MD 20892, USA; (O.I.O.); (F.E.E.); (D.E.C.)
| | - Freddy E. Escorcia
- Radiation Oncology Branch, Center for Cancer Research, National Cancer Institute, National Institutes of Health, Bethesda, MD 20892, USA; (O.I.O.); (F.E.E.); (D.E.C.)
- Molecular Imaging Branch, Center for Cancer Research, National Cancer Institute, National Institutes of Health, Bethesda, MD 20892, USA
| | - Deborah E. Citrin
- Radiation Oncology Branch, Center for Cancer Research, National Cancer Institute, National Institutes of Health, Bethesda, MD 20892, USA; (O.I.O.); (F.E.E.); (D.E.C.)
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17
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Huang X, You L, Nepovimova E, Psotka M, Malinak D, Valko M, Sivak L, Korabecny J, Heger Z, Adam V, Wu Q, Kuca K. Inhibitors of phosphoinositide 3-kinase (PI3K) and phosphoinositide 3-kinase-related protein kinase family (PIKK). J Enzyme Inhib Med Chem 2023; 38:2237209. [PMID: 37489050 PMCID: PMC10392309 DOI: 10.1080/14756366.2023.2237209] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/17/2023] [Accepted: 07/11/2023] [Indexed: 02/02/2024] Open
Abstract
Phosphoinositide 3-kinases (PI3K) and phosphoinositide 3-kinase-related protein kinases (PIKK) are two structurally related families of kinases that play vital roles in cell growth and DNA damage repair. Dysfunction of PIKK members and aberrant stimulation of the PI3K/AKT/mTOR signalling pathway are linked to a plethora of diseases including cancer. In recent decades, numerous inhibitors related to the PI3K/AKT/mTOR signalling have made great strides in cancer treatment, like copanlisib and sirolimus. Notably, most of the PIKK inhibitors (such as VX-970 and M3814) related to DNA damage response have also shown good efficacy in clinical trials. However, these drugs still require a suitable combination therapy to overcome drug resistance or improve antitumor activity. Based on the aforementioned facts, we summarised the efficacy of PIKK, PI3K, and AKT inhibitors in the therapy of human malignancies and the resistance mechanisms of targeted therapy, in order to provide deeper insights into cancer treatment.
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Affiliation(s)
- Xueqin Huang
- College of Life Science, Yangtze University, Jingzhou, China
| | - Li You
- College of Physical Education and Health, Chongqing College of International Business and Economics, Chongqing, China
| | - Eugenie Nepovimova
- Department of Chemistry, Faculty of Science, University of Hradec Kralove, Czech Republic
| | - Miroslav Psotka
- Department of Chemistry, Faculty of Science, University of Hradec Kralove, Czech Republic
- Biomedical Research Center, University Hospital Hradec Kralove, Hradec Kralove, Czech Republic
| | - David Malinak
- Department of Chemistry, Faculty of Science, University of Hradec Kralove, Czech Republic
- Biomedical Research Center, University Hospital Hradec Kralove, Hradec Kralove, Czech Republic
| | - Marian Valko
- Faculty of Chemical and Food Technology, Slovak University of Technology in Bratislava, Bratislava, Slovakia
| | - Ladislav Sivak
- Department of Chemistry and Biochemistry, Mendel University in Brno, Brno, Czech Republic
| | - Jan Korabecny
- Biomedical Research Center, University Hospital Hradec Kralove, Hradec Kralove, Czech Republic
| | - Zbynek Heger
- Department of Chemistry and Biochemistry, Mendel University in Brno, Brno, Czech Republic
| | - Vojtech Adam
- Department of Chemistry and Biochemistry, Mendel University in Brno, Brno, Czech Republic
| | - Qinghua Wu
- College of Life Science, Yangtze University, Jingzhou, China
- Department of Chemistry, Faculty of Science, University of Hradec Kralove, Czech Republic
| | - Kamil Kuca
- Department of Chemistry, Faculty of Science, University of Hradec Kralove, Czech Republic
- Biomedical Research Center, University Hospital Hradec Kralove, Hradec Kralove, Czech Republic
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18
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Deng H, Chen Y, Wang L, Zhang Y, Hang Q, Li P, Zhang P, Ji J, Song H, Chen M, Jin Y. PI3K/mTOR inhibitors promote G6PD autophagic degradation and exacerbate oxidative stress damage to radiosensitize small cell lung cancer. Cell Death Dis 2023; 14:652. [PMID: 37802999 PMCID: PMC10558571 DOI: 10.1038/s41419-023-06171-7] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/17/2023] [Revised: 09/12/2023] [Accepted: 09/21/2023] [Indexed: 10/08/2023]
Abstract
Our previous study revealed that PI3K/AKT/mTOR signaling was associated with SCLC radioresistance. SBC2 cells were used as primary radioresistance models, while H446 cells were continuously exposed to ionizing radiation (IR) to develop acquired radioresistance. Cell viability and apoptosis assays were used to investigate synergistic effects of BEZ235/GSK2126458 and IR in vitro, while immunoblotting, metabolite quantitative analysis and bioinformatic analyses were utilized to explore the underlying mechanism. Both genetically engineered mouse models (GEMM) and subcutaneous tumor models were used to confirm the synergistic effect in vivo. Key molecules of PI3K/AKT/mTOR signaling were upregulated after IR, which was correlated with primary radioresistance, and they were more expressed in acquired radioresistant cells. BEZ235/GSK2126458 effectively enhanced the cytotoxic effects of IR. BEZ235/GSK2126458 plus IR elevated γ-H2AX and p-Nrf2 expression, suggesting DNA and oxidative stress damage were intensified. Mechanistically, BEZ235/GSK2126458 plus IR significantly reduced the expression of G6PD protein, the rate-limiting enzyme of the pentose phosphate pathway (PPP). In detail, PI3K/mTOR inhibitors reinforced interaction between G6PD and HSPA8/HSC70, and G6PD was degraded by chaperone-mediated autophagy processes. Their metabolites (NADPH and R-5P) were decreased, and ROS levels were indirectly elevated, both of which exacerbated cell death. PI3K/AKT/mTOR signaling activator, insulin, enhanced SCLC radioresistance, while the synergistic effect of BEZ235/GSK2126458 and IR can be attenuated by N-acetylcysteine, and enhanced by 6-amino niacinamide. GEMM and allograft transplantation assays further confirmed their synergistic effect in vivo. This study provided insights into the connection between PI3K/AKT/mTOR signaling and the PPP underlying radioresistance and provided evidence of mechanisms supporting PI3K/mTOR inhibitors as possible therapeutic strategies to abrogate SCLC radioresistance.
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Affiliation(s)
- Huan Deng
- Zhejiang Cancer Hospital, Hangzhou Institute of Medicine (HIM), Chinese Academy of Sciences, Hangzhou, Zhejiang, 310022, China
- State Key Laboratory of Oncology in South China, Guangdong Provincial Clinical Research Center for Cancer, Sun Yat-sen University Cancer Center, Guangzhou, 510060, P. R. China
| | - Yamei Chen
- Institute of Molecular Medicine, Renji Hospital, Shanghai Jiaotong University School of Medicine, Shanghai, 200240, China
| | - Li Wang
- State Key Laboratory of Oncology in South China, Guangdong Provincial Clinical Research Center for Cancer, Sun Yat-sen University Cancer Center, Guangzhou, 510060, P. R. China
| | - Yibi Zhang
- Department of Cardiovascular Medicine, The Second Affiliated Hospital of Nanchang University, Nanchang, Jiangxi, 331800, China
| | - Qingqing Hang
- Zhejiang Cancer Hospital, Hangzhou Institute of Medicine (HIM), Chinese Academy of Sciences, Hangzhou, Zhejiang, 310022, China
| | - Peijing Li
- Zhejiang Cancer Hospital, Hangzhou Institute of Medicine (HIM), Chinese Academy of Sciences, Hangzhou, Zhejiang, 310022, China
| | - Peng Zhang
- Zhejiang Cancer Hospital, Hangzhou Institute of Medicine (HIM), Chinese Academy of Sciences, Hangzhou, Zhejiang, 310022, China
| | - Jing Ji
- Zhejiang Cancer Hospital, Hangzhou Institute of Medicine (HIM), Chinese Academy of Sciences, Hangzhou, Zhejiang, 310022, China
| | - Hai Song
- The MOE Key Laboratory of Biosystems Homeostasis & Protection, Zhejiang Provincial Key Laboratory for Cancer Molecular Cell Biology and Innovation Center for Cell Signaling Network, Life Sciences Institute, Zhejiang University, Hangzhou, Zhejiang, 310058, China.
| | - Ming Chen
- State Key Laboratory of Oncology in South China, Guangdong Provincial Clinical Research Center for Cancer, Sun Yat-sen University Cancer Center, Guangzhou, 510060, P. R. China.
- United Laboratory of Frontier Radiotherapy Technology of Sun Yat-sen University & Chinese Academy of Sciences Ion Medical Technology Co., Ltd, Guangzhou, China.
| | - Ying Jin
- Zhejiang Cancer Hospital, Hangzhou Institute of Medicine (HIM), Chinese Academy of Sciences, Hangzhou, Zhejiang, 310022, China.
- Zhejiang Key Laboratory of Radiation Oncology, Hangzhou, Zhejiang, 310022, China.
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19
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Lal S, Bhola NE, Sun BC, Chen Y, Huang T, Morton V, Chen KX, Xia S, Zhang H, Parikh NS, Ye Q, Veiby OP, Bellovin DI, Ji Y. Discovery and Characterization of ZL-2201, a Potent, Highly Selective, and Orally Bioavailable Small-molecule DNA-PK Inhibitor. CANCER RESEARCH COMMUNICATIONS 2023; 3:1731-1742. [PMID: 37663435 PMCID: PMC10473160 DOI: 10.1158/2767-9764.crc-23-0304] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/17/2023] [Revised: 08/03/2023] [Accepted: 08/04/2023] [Indexed: 09/05/2023]
Abstract
DNA-dependent protein kinase (DNA-PK), a driver of the non-homologous end-joining (NHEJ) DNA damage response pathway, plays an instrumental role in repairing double-strand breaks (DSB) induced by DNA-damaging poisons. We evaluate ZL-2201, an orally bioavailable, highly potent, and selective pharmacologic inhibitor of DNA-PK activity, for the treatment of human cancerous malignancies. ZL-2201 demonstrated greater selectivity for DNA-PK and effectively inhibited DNA-PK autophosphorylation in a concentration- and time-dependent manner. Initial data suggested a potential correlation between ataxia-telangiectasia mutated (ATM) deficiency and ZL-2201 sensitivity. More so, ZL-2201 showed strong synergy with topoisomerase II inhibitors independent of ATM status in vitro. In vivo oral administration of ZL-2201 demonstrated dose-dependent antitumor activity in the NCI-H1703 xenograft model and significantly enhanced the activity of approved DNA-damaging agents in A549 and FaDu models. From a phosphoproteomic mass spectrometry screen, we identified and validated that ZL-2201 and PRKDC siRNA decreased Ser108 phosphorylation of MCM2, a key DNA replication factor. Collectively, we have characterized a potent and selective DNA-PK inhibitor with promising monotherapy and combinatory therapeutic potential with approved DNA-damaging agents. More importantly, we identified phospho-MCM2 (Ser108) as a potential proximal biomarker of DNA-PK inhibition that warrants further preclinical and clinical evaluation. Significance ZL-2201, a potent and selective DNA-PK inhibitor, can target tumor models in combination with DNA DSB-inducing agents such as radiation or doxorubicin, with potential to improve recurrent therapies in the clinic.
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Affiliation(s)
- Shruti Lal
- Biologics Discovery, Zai Lab (US) LLC, Menlo Park, California
| | - Neil E. Bhola
- Biologics Discovery, Zai Lab (US) LLC, Menlo Park, California
| | - Bee-Chun Sun
- Biologics Discovery, Zai Lab (US) LLC, Menlo Park, California
| | - Yuping Chen
- Biologics Discovery, Zai Lab (US) LLC, Menlo Park, California
| | - Tom Huang
- Biologics Discovery, Zai Lab (US) LLC, Menlo Park, California
| | - Vivian Morton
- Biologics Discovery, Zai Lab (US) LLC, Menlo Park, California
| | | | | | | | - Nehal S. Parikh
- Biologics Discovery, Zai Lab (US) LLC, Menlo Park, California
| | - Qiuping Ye
- Biologics Discovery, Zai Lab (US) LLC, Menlo Park, California
| | - O. Petter Veiby
- Biologics Discovery, Zai Lab (US) LLC, Menlo Park, California
| | | | - Yuhua Ji
- Biologics Discovery, Zai Lab (US) LLC, Menlo Park, California
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20
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Zhang K, Wu M, Liu Y, Feng Y, Zheng J. KR4SL: knowledge graph reasoning for explainable prediction of synthetic lethality. Bioinformatics 2023; 39:i158-i167. [PMID: 37387166 PMCID: PMC10311291 DOI: 10.1093/bioinformatics/btad261] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 07/01/2023] Open
Abstract
MOTIVATION Synthetic lethality (SL) is a promising strategy for anticancer therapy, as inhibiting SL partners of genes with cancer-specific mutations can selectively kill the cancer cells without harming the normal cells. Wet-lab techniques for SL screening have issues like high cost and off-target effects. Computational methods can help address these issues. Previous machine learning methods leverage known SL pairs, and the use of knowledge graphs (KGs) can significantly enhance the prediction performance. However, the subgraph structures of KG have not been fully explored. Besides, most machine learning methods lack interpretability, which is an obstacle for wide applications of machine learning to SL identification. RESULTS We present a model named KR4SL to predict SL partners for a given primary gene. It captures the structural semantics of a KG by efficiently constructing and learning from relational digraphs in the KG. To encode the semantic information of the relational digraphs, we fuse textual semantics of entities into propagated messages and enhance the sequential semantics of paths using a recurrent neural network. Moreover, we design an attentive aggregator to identify critical subgraph structures that contribute the most to the SL prediction as explanations. Extensive experiments under different settings show that KR4SL significantly outperforms all the baselines. The explanatory subgraphs for the predicted gene pairs can unveil prediction process and mechanisms underlying synthetic lethality. The improved predictive power and interpretability indicate that deep learning is practically useful for SL-based cancer drug target discovery. AVAILABILITY AND IMPLEMENTATION The source code is freely available at https://github.com/JieZheng-ShanghaiTech/KR4SL.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ke Zhang
- School of Information Science and Technology, ShanghaiTech University, Shanghai 201210, China
- Shanghai Institute of Microsystem and Information Technology, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Shanghai 200050, China
- University of Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing 100049, China
| | - Min Wu
- Institute for Infocomm Research, Agency for Science, Technology and Research (A*STAR), Singapore 138632, Singapore
| | - Yong Liu
- Nanyang Technological University, Singapore 639798, Singapore
| | - Yimiao Feng
- School of Information Science and Technology, ShanghaiTech University, Shanghai 201210, China
- Lingang Laboratory, Shanghai 201602, China
| | - Jie Zheng
- School of Information Science and Technology, ShanghaiTech University, Shanghai 201210, China
- Shanghai Engineering Research Center of Intelligent Vision and Imaging, ShanghaiTech University, Shanghai 201210, China
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21
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Gu L, Hickey RJ, Malkas LH. Therapeutic Targeting of DNA Replication Stress in Cancer. Genes (Basel) 2023; 14:1346. [PMID: 37510250 PMCID: PMC10378776 DOI: 10.3390/genes14071346] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/20/2023] [Revised: 06/06/2023] [Accepted: 06/07/2023] [Indexed: 07/30/2023] Open
Abstract
This article reviews the currently used therapeutic strategies to target DNA replication stress for cancer treatment in the clinic, highlighting their effectiveness and limitations due to toxicity and drug resistance. Cancer cells experience enhanced spontaneous DNA damage due to compromised DNA replication machinery, elevated levels of reactive oxygen species, loss of tumor suppressor genes, and/or constitutive activation of oncogenes. Consequently, these cells are addicted to DNA damage response signaling pathways and repair machinery to maintain genome stability and support survival and proliferation. Chemotherapeutic drugs exploit this genetic instability by inducing additional DNA damage to overwhelm the repair system in cancer cells. However, the clinical use of DNA-damaging agents is limited by their toxicity and drug resistance often arises. To address these issues, the article discusses a potential strategy to target the cancer-associated isoform of proliferating cell nuclear antigen (caPCNA), which plays a central role in the DNA replication and damage response network. Small molecule and peptide agents that specifically target caPCNA can selectively target cancer cells without significant toxicity to normal cells or experimental animals.
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Affiliation(s)
- Long Gu
- Department of Molecular Diagnostics & Experimental Therapeutics, Beckman Research Institute of City of Hope, Duarte, CA 91010, USA
| | - Robert J Hickey
- Department of Cancer Biology & Molecular Medicine, Beckman Research Institute of City of Hope, Duarte, CA 91010, USA
| | - Linda H Malkas
- Department of Molecular Diagnostics & Experimental Therapeutics, Beckman Research Institute of City of Hope, Duarte, CA 91010, USA
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22
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Pearson ADJ, Federico S, Gatz SA, Ortiz M, Lesa G, Scobie N, Gounaris I, Weiner SL, Weigel B, Unger TJ, Stewart E, Smith M, Slotkin EK, Reaman G, Pappo A, Nysom K, Norga K, McDonough J, Marshall LV, Ludwinski D, Ligas F, Karres D, Kool M, Horner TJ, Henssen A, Heenen D, Hawkins DS, Gore L, Bender JG, Galluzzo S, Fox E, de Rojas T, Davies BR, Chakrabarti J, Carmichael J, Bradford D, Blanc P, Bernardi R, Benchetrit S, Akindele K, Vassal G. Paediatric Strategy Forum for medicinal product development of DNA damage response pathway inhibitors in children and adolescents with cancer: ACCELERATE in collaboration with the European Medicines Agency with participation of the Food and Drug Administration. Eur J Cancer 2023; 190:112950. [PMID: 37441939 DOI: 10.1016/j.ejca.2023.112950] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/06/2023] [Revised: 05/09/2023] [Accepted: 06/13/2023] [Indexed: 07/15/2023]
Abstract
DNA damage response inhibitors have a potentially important therapeutic role in paediatric cancers; however, their optimal use, including patient selection and combination strategy, remains unknown. Moreover, there is an imbalance between the number of drugs with diverse mechanisms of action and the limited number of paediatric patients available to be enrolled in early-phase trials, so prioritisation and a strategy are essential. While PARP inhibitors targeting homologous recombination-deficient tumours have been used primarily in the treatment of adult cancers with BRCA1/2 mutations, BRCA1/2 mutations occur infrequently in childhood tumours, and therefore, a specific response hypothesis is required. Combinations with targeted radiotherapy, ATR inhibitors, or antibody drug conjugates with DNA topoisomerase I inhibitor-related warheads warrant evaluation. Additional monotherapy trials of PARP inhibitors with the same mechanism of action are not recommended. PARP1-specific inhibitors and PARP inhibitors with very good central nervous system penetration also deserve evaluation. ATR, ATM, DNA-PK, CHK1, WEE1, DNA polymerase theta and PKMYT1 inhibitors are early in paediatric development. There should be an overall coordinated strategy for their development. Therefore, an academia/industry consensus of the relevant biomarkers will be established and a focused meeting on ATR inhibitors (as proof of principle) held. CHK1 inhibitors have demonstrated activity in desmoplastic small round cell tumours and have a potential role in the treatment of other paediatric malignancies, such as neuroblastoma and Ewing sarcoma. Access to CHK1 inhibitors for paediatric clinical trials is a high priority. The three key elements in evaluating these inhibitors in children are (1) innovative trial design (design driven by a clear hypothesis with the intent to further investigate responders and non-responders with detailed retrospective molecular analyses to generate a revised or new hypothesis); (2) biomarker selection and (3) rational combination therapy, which is limited by overlapping toxicity. To maximally benefit children with cancer, investigators should work collaboratively to learn the lessons from the past and apply them to future studies. Plans should be based on the relevant biology, with a focus on simultaneous and parallel research in preclinical and clinical settings, and an overall integrated and collaborative strategy.
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Affiliation(s)
- Andrew D J Pearson
- ACCELERATE, c/o BLSI, Clos Chapelle-aux-Champs 30, Bte 1.30.30 BE-1200 Brussels, Belgium.
| | - Sara Federico
- St Jude Children's Research Hospital, Memphis, TN, USA
| | - Susanne A Gatz
- Institute of Cancer and Genomic Sciences, University of Birmingham, Birmingham, UK
| | - Michael Ortiz
- Memorial Sloan Kettering Cancer Center, New York, NY, USA
| | - Giovanni Lesa
- Paediatric Medicines Office, Scientific Evidence Generation Department, Human Division, European Medicines Agency (EMA), Amsterdam, the Netherlands
| | | | - Ioannis Gounaris
- Merck Serono Ltd (an affiliate of Merck KGaA, Darmstadt, Germany), Feltham, UK
| | | | | | - T J Unger
- Repare Therapeutics, Cambridge, MA, USA
| | | | | | | | - Gregory Reaman
- US Food and Drug Administration, Silver Springs, MD, USA
| | - Alberto Pappo
- St Jude Children's Research Hospital, Memphis, TN, USA
| | | | - Koen Norga
- Antwerp University Hospital, Antwerp, Belgium; Paediatric Committee of the European Medicines Agency (EMA), Amsterdam, the Netherlands; Federal Agency for Medicines and Health Products, Brussels, Belgium
| | - Joe McDonough
- The Andrew McDonough B+ Foundation, Wilmington, DE, USA
| | - Lynley V Marshall
- The Royal Marsden NHS Foundation Hospital, The Institute of Cancer Research, Sutton, Surrey, UK
| | | | - Franca Ligas
- Paediatric Medicines Office, Scientific Evidence Generation Department, Human Division, European Medicines Agency (EMA), Amsterdam, the Netherlands
| | - Dominik Karres
- Paediatric Medicines Office, Scientific Evidence Generation Department, Human Division, European Medicines Agency (EMA), Amsterdam, the Netherlands
| | - Marcel Kool
- Hopp Children's Cancer Center, Heidelberg, Germany
| | | | | | | | - Douglas S Hawkins
- Seattle Children's Hospital, Seattle, WA, USA; Children's Oncology Group, Seattle, WA, USA
| | - Lia Gore
- Children's Hospital Colorado, Aurora, CO, USA; University of Colorado School of Medicine, Aurora, CO, USA
| | | | | | - Elizabeth Fox
- St Jude Children's Research Hospital, Memphis, TN, USA
| | - Teresa de Rojas
- ACCELERATE, c/o BLSI, Clos Chapelle-aux-Champs 30, Bte 1.30.30 BE-1200 Brussels, Belgium
| | | | | | - Juliet Carmichael
- The Royal Marsden NHS Foundation Hospital, The Institute of Cancer Research, Sutton, Surrey, UK
| | - Diana Bradford
- US Food and Drug Administration, Silver Springs, MD, USA
| | | | - Ronald Bernardi
- Genentech, a Member of the Roche Group, South San Francisco, CA, USA
| | - Sylvie Benchetrit
- National Agency for the Safety of Medicine and Health Products, Paris, France
| | | | - Gilles Vassal
- ACCELERATE, c/o BLSI, Clos Chapelle-aux-Champs 30, Bte 1.30.30 BE-1200 Brussels, Belgium; Gustave Roussy Cancer Centre, Paris, France
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23
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Spalato-Ceruso M, Laroche-Clary A, Perret R, Valverde Y, Chaire V, Derieppe MA, Velasco V, Bourdon A, Italiano A. Genome-wide CRISPR/Cas9 library screening identified ATM signaling network genes as critical drivers for resistance to ATR inhibition in soft-tissue sarcomas: synthetic lethality and therapeutic implications. Exp Hematol Oncol 2023; 12:51. [PMID: 37259134 DOI: 10.1186/s40164-023-00416-z] [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: 12/27/2022] [Accepted: 05/16/2023] [Indexed: 06/02/2023] Open
Abstract
Soft-tissue sarcoma (STS) are a heterogeneous group of rare tumors with different biological behavior that are fatal in more than 40% of cases, due to their metastatic evolution and inadequate treatment options. ATR inhibition already showed an activity, even if modest, in broad pre-clinical models of STS. By using genome-wide CRISPR/Cas9 library screening, we identified ATM signaling network genes as critical drivers for resistance to the specific ATR inhibitor AZD6738. The role of such genes in resistance to AZD6738 was confirmed by using CRISPR/Cas9 knockout models. More strikingly, the ATM inhibitor AZD0156 works synergistically with AZD6738 in vitro and abolishes STS growth in vivo in our models of most frequent histotypes (such as dedifferentiated liposarcoma, leiomyosarcoma, and undifferentiated pleomorphic sarcoma among others). Moreover, the combination of AZD6738 and AZD0156 induced significantly higher levels of DNA damage than either drug used as single agent alone. In summary, our results demonstrate that targeting ATM is an effective approach to overcome resistance to ATR inhibition in different STS subtypes, including the most frequent histologies.
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Affiliation(s)
- M Spalato-Ceruso
- Sarcoma Unit, Institut Bergonié, 229 cours de l'Argonne, Bordeaux, 33000, France
- INSERM, U1312, Bordeaux, France
| | - A Laroche-Clary
- Sarcoma Unit, Institut Bergonié, 229 cours de l'Argonne, Bordeaux, 33000, France
- INSERM, U1312, Bordeaux, France
| | - R Perret
- Department of Pathology, Institut Bergonié, Bordeaux, France
| | - Y Valverde
- Sarcoma Unit, Institut Bergonié, 229 cours de l'Argonne, Bordeaux, 33000, France
- INSERM, U1312, Bordeaux, France
| | - V Chaire
- Sarcoma Unit, Institut Bergonié, 229 cours de l'Argonne, Bordeaux, 33000, France
- INSERM, U1312, Bordeaux, France
| | | | - V Velasco
- Department of Pathology, Institut Bergonié, Bordeaux, France
| | - A Bourdon
- Bioinformatics, Data and Digital Health Departement, Insitut Bergonié, Bordeaux, France
| | - A Italiano
- Sarcoma Unit, Institut Bergonié, 229 cours de l'Argonne, Bordeaux, 33000, France.
- INSERM, U1312, Bordeaux, France.
- University of Bordeaux, Bordeaux, France.
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24
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Sible E, Attaway M, Fiorica G, Michel G, Chaudhuri J, Vuong BQ. Ataxia Telangiectasia Mutated and MSH2 Control Blunt DNA End Joining in Ig Class Switch Recombination. JOURNAL OF IMMUNOLOGY (BALTIMORE, MD. : 1950) 2023; 210:369-376. [PMID: 36603026 PMCID: PMC9915862 DOI: 10.4049/jimmunol.2200590] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/15/2022] [Accepted: 12/09/2022] [Indexed: 01/06/2023]
Abstract
Class-switch recombination (CSR) produces secondary Ig isotypes and requires activation-induced cytidine deaminase (AID)-dependent DNA deamination of intronic switch regions within the IgH (Igh) gene locus. Noncanonical repair of deaminated DNA by mismatch repair (MMR) or base excision repair (BER) creates DNA breaks that permit recombination between distal switch regions. Ataxia telangiectasia mutated (ATM)-dependent phosphorylation of AID at serine 38 (pS38-AID) promotes its interaction with apurinic/apyrimidinic endonuclease 1 (APE1), a BER protein, suggesting that ATM regulates CSR through BER. However, pS38-AID may also function in MMR during CSR, although the mechanism remains unknown. To examine whether ATM modulates BER- and/or MMR-dependent CSR, Atm-/- mice were bred to mice deficient for the MMR gene mutS homolog 2 (Msh2). Surprisingly, the predicted Mendelian frequencies of Atm-/-Msh2-/- adult mice were not obtained. To generate ATM and MSH2-deficient B cells, Atm was conditionally deleted on an Msh2-/- background using a floxed ATM allele (Atmf) and B cell-specific Cre recombinase expression (CD23-cre) to produce a deleted ATM allele (AtmD). As compared with AtmD/D and Msh2-/- mice and B cells, AtmD/DMsh2-/- mice and B cells display a reduced CSR phenotype. Interestingly, Sμ-Sγ1 junctions from AtmD/DMsh2-/- B cells that were induced to switch to IgG1 in vitro showed a significant loss of blunt end joins and an increase in insertions as compared with wild-type, AtmD/D, or Msh2-/- B cells. These data indicate that the absence of both ATM and MSH2 blocks nonhomologous end joining, leading to inefficient CSR. We propose a model whereby ATM and MSH2 function cooperatively to regulate end joining during CSR through pS38-AID.
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Affiliation(s)
- Emily Sible
- Biology PhD Program, The Graduate Center, The City University of New York, New York, NY
- Department of Biology, City College of New York, The City University of New York, New York, NY; and
| | - Mary Attaway
- Department of Biology, City College of New York, The City University of New York, New York, NY; and
| | - Giuseppe Fiorica
- Department of Biology, City College of New York, The City University of New York, New York, NY; and
| | - Genesis Michel
- Department of Biology, City College of New York, The City University of New York, New York, NY; and
| | | | - Bao Q. Vuong
- Biology PhD Program, The Graduate Center, The City University of New York, New York, NY
- Department of Biology, City College of New York, The City University of New York, New York, NY; and
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25
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Salguero C, Valladolid C, Robinson HMR, Smith GCM, Yap TA. Targeting ATR in Cancer Medicine. Cancer Treat Res 2023; 186:239-283. [PMID: 37978140 DOI: 10.1007/978-3-031-30065-3_14] [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: 11/19/2023]
Abstract
As a key component of the DNA Damage Response, the Ataxia telangiectasia and Rad3-related (ATR) protein is a promising druggable target that is currently widely evaluated in phase I-II-III clinical trials as monotherapy and in combinations with other rational antitumor agents, including immunotherapy, DNA repair inhibitors, chemo- and radiotherapy. Ongoing clinical studies for this drug class must address the optimization of the therapeutic window to limit overlapping toxicities and refine the target population that will most likely benefit from ATR inhibition. With advances in the development of personalized treatment strategies for patients with advanced solid tumors, many ongoing ATR inhibitor trials have been recruiting patients based on their germline and somatic molecular alterations, rather than relying solely on specific tumor subtypes. Although a spectrum of molecular alterations have already been identified as potential predictive biomarkers of response that may sensitize to ATR inhibition, these biomarkers must be analytically validated and feasible to measure robustly to allow for successful integration into the clinic. While several ATR inhibitors in development are poised to address a clinically unmet need, no ATR inhibitor has yet received FDA-approval. This chapter details the underlying rationale for targeting ATR and summarizes the current preclinical and clinical landscape of ATR inhibitors currently in evaluation, as their regulatory approval potentially lies close in sight.
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Affiliation(s)
- Carolina Salguero
- Department of Investigational Cancer Therapeutics (Phase I Program), Division of Cancer Medicine, The University of Texas MD Anderson Cancer Center, Houston, TX, USA
| | - Christian Valladolid
- Department of Investigational Cancer Therapeutics (Phase I Program), Division of Cancer Medicine, The University of Texas MD Anderson Cancer Center, Houston, TX, USA
| | - Helen M R Robinson
- Artios Pharma, The Glenn Berge Building, Babraham Research Campus, Cambridge, UK
| | - Graeme C M Smith
- Artios Pharma, The Glenn Berge Building, Babraham Research Campus, Cambridge, UK
| | - Timothy A Yap
- Department of Investigational Cancer Therapeutics (Phase I Program), Division of Cancer Medicine, The University of Texas MD Anderson Cancer Center, Houston, TX, USA.
- The Institute for Applied Cancer Science, and Institute for Personalized Cancer Therapy, The University of Texas MD Anderson Cancer Center, 1400 Holcombe Boulevard, TX, 77030, Houston, USA.
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26
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Shen X, Xu X, Guo Y, Yang H, He J, Xie P. Borna disease virus 1 impairs DNA double-strand break repair through the ATR/Chk1 signalling pathway, resulting in learning and memory impairment in rats. J Gen Virol 2022; 103. [PMID: 36748530 DOI: 10.1099/jgv.0.001813] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/23/2022] Open
Abstract
Borna disease virus 1 (BoDV-1) is a highly neurotropic RNA virus that can establish persistent infection in the central nervous system and cause cognitive dysfunction in neonatally infected rats. However, the mechanisms that lead to this cognitive impairment remain unclear. DNA double-strand breaks (DSBs) and their repair are associated with brain development and cognition. If DNA repair in the brain is reduced or delayed and DNA damage accumulates, abnormal cognitive function may result. We generated a rat model of BoDV-1 infection during the neonatal period and assessed behavioural changes using the open field test and Morris water maze. The levels of DSBs were determined by immunofluorescence and comet assays. Western blotting assessed proteins associated with DNA repair pathways. The results showed that BoDV-1 downregulated the ATR/Chk1 signalling pathway in the brain, impairing DNA damage repair and increasing the number of DSBs, which ultimately leads to cognitive dysfunction. Our findings suggest a molecular mechanism by which BoDV-1 interferes with DNA damage repair to cause learning and memory impairment. This provides a theoretical basis for elucidating BoDV-1-induced neurodevelopmental impairment.
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Affiliation(s)
- Xia Shen
- Department of Neurology, The First Affiliated Hospital of Chongqing Medical University, Chongqing, PR China.,NHC Key Laboratory of Diagnosis and Treatment on Brain Functional Diseases, The First Affiliated Hospital of Chongqing Medical University, Chongqing, PR China
| | - Xiaoyan Xu
- NHC Key Laboratory of Diagnosis and Treatment on Brain Functional Diseases, The First Affiliated Hospital of Chongqing Medical University, Chongqing, PR China.,Department of Pathology, College of Basic Medicine, Chongqing Medical University, Chongqing, PR China
| | - Yujie Guo
- NHC Key Laboratory of Diagnosis and Treatment on Brain Functional Diseases, The First Affiliated Hospital of Chongqing Medical University, Chongqing, PR China.,Department of Neurology, Yongchuan Hospital of Chongqing Medical University, Chongqing, PR China
| | - Hongli Yang
- Department of Neurology, The First Affiliated Hospital of Chongqing Medical University, Chongqing, PR China.,NHC Key Laboratory of Diagnosis and Treatment on Brain Functional Diseases, The First Affiliated Hospital of Chongqing Medical University, Chongqing, PR China
| | - Juan He
- Department of Pathology, College of Basic Medicine, Chongqing Medical University, Chongqing, PR China
| | - Peng Xie
- Department of Neurology, The First Affiliated Hospital of Chongqing Medical University, Chongqing, PR China.,NHC Key Laboratory of Diagnosis and Treatment on Brain Functional Diseases, The First Affiliated Hospital of Chongqing Medical University, Chongqing, PR China
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Ivanenko AV, Evtushenko NA, Gurskaya NG. Genome Editing in Therapy of Genodermatoses. Mol Biol 2022. [DOI: 10.1134/s0026893322060085] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/13/2022]
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DNA Damage Response in Cancer Therapy and Resistance: Challenges and Opportunities. Int J Mol Sci 2022; 23:ijms232314672. [PMID: 36499000 PMCID: PMC9735783 DOI: 10.3390/ijms232314672] [Citation(s) in RCA: 28] [Impact Index Per Article: 14.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/17/2022] [Revised: 11/20/2022] [Accepted: 11/21/2022] [Indexed: 11/25/2022] Open
Abstract
Resistance to chemo- and radiotherapy is a common event among cancer patients and a reason why new cancer therapies and therapeutic strategies need to be in continuous investigation and development. DNA damage response (DDR) comprises several pathways that eliminate DNA damage to maintain genomic stability and integrity, but different types of cancers are associated with DDR machinery defects. Many improvements have been made in recent years, providing several drugs and therapeutic strategies for cancer patients, including those targeting the DDR pathways. Currently, poly (ADP-ribose) polymerase inhibitors (PARP inhibitors) are the DDR inhibitors (DDRi) approved for several cancers, including breast, ovarian, pancreatic, and prostate cancer. However, PARPi resistance is a growing issue in clinical settings that increases disease relapse and aggravate patients' prognosis. Additionally, resistance to other DDRi is also being found and investigated. The resistance mechanisms to DDRi include reversion mutations, epigenetic modification, stabilization of the replication fork, and increased drug efflux. This review highlights the DDR pathways in cancer therapy, its role in the resistance to conventional treatments, and its exploitation for anticancer treatment. Biomarkers of treatment response, combination strategies with other anticancer agents, resistance mechanisms, and liabilities of treatment with DDR inhibitors are also discussed.
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Fraser CR, Ajenjo J, Veal M, Dias GM, Chan C, O’Neill E, Destro G, Lau D, Pacelli A, Gouverneur V, Hueting R, Cornelissen B. Radiofluorination of a highly potent ATM inhibitor as a potential PET imaging agent. EJNMMI Res 2022; 12:50. [PMID: 35962885 PMCID: PMC9375819 DOI: 10.1186/s13550-022-00920-z] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/11/2022] [Accepted: 07/27/2022] [Indexed: 01/04/2023] Open
Abstract
PURPOSE Ataxia telangiectasia mutated (ATM) is a key mediator of the DNA damage response, and several ATM inhibitors (ATMi) are currently undergoing early phase clinical trials for the treatment of cancer. A radiolabelled ATMi to determine drug pharmacokinetics could assist patient selection in a move towards more personalised medicine. The aim of this study was to synthesise and investigate the first 18F-labelled ATM inhibitor [18F]1 for non-invasive imaging of ATM protein and ATMi pharmacokinetics. METHODS Radiofluorination of a confirmed selective ATM inhibitor (1) was achieved through substitution of a nitro-precursor with [18F]fluoride. Uptake of [18F]1 was assessed in vitro in H1299 lung cancer cells stably transfected with shRNA to reduce expression of ATM. Blocking studies using several non-radioactive ATM inhibitors assessed binding specificity to ATM. In vivo biodistribution studies were performed in wild-type and ATM-knockout C57BL/6 mice using PET/CT and ex vivo analysis. Uptake of [18F]1 in H1299 tumour xenografts was assessed in BALB/c nu/nu mice. RESULTS Nitro-precursor 2 was synthesised with an overall yield of 12%. Radiofluorination of 2 achieved radiochemically pure [18F]1 in 80 ± 13 min with a radiochemical yield of 20 ± 13% (decay-corrected) and molar activities up to 79.5 GBq/μmol (n = 11). In vitro, cell-associated activity of [18F]1 increased over 1 h, and retention of [18F]1 dropped to 50% over 2 h. [18F]1 uptake did not correlate with ATM expression, but could be reduced significantly with an excess of known ATM inhibitors, demonstrating specific binding of [18F]1 to ATM. In vivo, fast hepatobiliary clearance was observed with tumour uptake ranging 0.13-0.90%ID/g after 1 h. CONCLUSION Here, we report the first radiofluorination of an ATM inhibitor and its in vitro and in vivo biological evaluations, revealing the benefits but also some limitations of 18F-labelled ATM inhibitors.
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Affiliation(s)
- Claudia Rose Fraser
- Department of Oncology, MRC Oxford Institute for Radiation Oncology, University of Oxford, Old Road Campus Research Building, Roosevelt Drive, Oxford, OX3 7DQ UK
| | - Javier Ajenjo
- Department of Oncology, MRC Oxford Institute for Radiation Oncology, University of Oxford, Old Road Campus Research Building, Roosevelt Drive, Oxford, OX3 7DQ UK
| | - Mathew Veal
- Department of Oncology, MRC Oxford Institute for Radiation Oncology, University of Oxford, Old Road Campus Research Building, Roosevelt Drive, Oxford, OX3 7DQ UK
| | - Gemma Marie Dias
- Department of Oncology, MRC Oxford Institute for Radiation Oncology, University of Oxford, Old Road Campus Research Building, Roosevelt Drive, Oxford, OX3 7DQ UK
| | - Chung Chan
- Department of Oncology, MRC Oxford Institute for Radiation Oncology, University of Oxford, Old Road Campus Research Building, Roosevelt Drive, Oxford, OX3 7DQ UK
| | - Edward O’Neill
- Department of Oncology, MRC Oxford Institute for Radiation Oncology, University of Oxford, Old Road Campus Research Building, Roosevelt Drive, Oxford, OX3 7DQ UK
| | - Gianluca Destro
- Department of Oncology, MRC Oxford Institute for Radiation Oncology, University of Oxford, Old Road Campus Research Building, Roosevelt Drive, Oxford, OX3 7DQ UK
- Department of Chemistry, University of Oxford, Oxford, UK
| | - Doreen Lau
- Department of Oncology, MRC Oxford Institute for Radiation Oncology, University of Oxford, Old Road Campus Research Building, Roosevelt Drive, Oxford, OX3 7DQ UK
| | - Anna Pacelli
- Department of Oncology, MRC Oxford Institute for Radiation Oncology, University of Oxford, Old Road Campus Research Building, Roosevelt Drive, Oxford, OX3 7DQ UK
| | | | - Rebekka Hueting
- Department of Oncology, MRC Oxford Institute for Radiation Oncology, University of Oxford, Old Road Campus Research Building, Roosevelt Drive, Oxford, OX3 7DQ UK
| | - Bart Cornelissen
- Department of Oncology, MRC Oxford Institute for Radiation Oncology, University of Oxford, Old Road Campus Research Building, Roosevelt Drive, Oxford, OX3 7DQ UK
- Nuclear Medicine and Molecular Imaging, University Medical Centre Groningen, University of Groningen, Groningen, The Netherlands
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Zimmermann A, Zenke FT, Chiu LY, Dahmen H, Pehl U, Fuchss T, Grombacher T, Blume B, Vassilev LT, Blaukat A. A New Class of Selective ATM Inhibitors as Combination Partners of DNA Double-Strand Break Inducing Cancer Therapies. Mol Cancer Ther 2022; 21:859-870. [PMID: 35405736 PMCID: PMC9381122 DOI: 10.1158/1535-7163.mct-21-0934] [Citation(s) in RCA: 17] [Impact Index Per Article: 8.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/25/2021] [Revised: 02/16/2022] [Accepted: 04/04/2022] [Indexed: 01/07/2023]
Abstract
Radiotherapy and chemical DNA-damaging agents are among the most widely used classes of cancer therapeutics today. Double-strand breaks (DSB) induced by many of these treatments are lethal to cancer cells if left unrepaired. Ataxia telangiectasia-mutated (ATM) kinase plays a key role in the DNA damage response by driving DSB repair and cell-cycle checkpoints to protect cancer cells. Inhibitors of ATM catalytic activity have been shown to suppress DSB DNA repair, block checkpoint controls and enhance the therapeutic effect of radiotherapy and other DSB-inducing modalities. Here, we describe the pharmacological activities of two highly potent and selective ATM inhibitors from a new chemical class, M3541 and M4076. In biochemical assays, they inhibited ATM kinase activity with a sub-nanomolar potency and showed remarkable selectivity against other protein kinases. In cancer cells, the ATM inhibitors suppressed DSB repair, clonogenic cancer cell growth, and potentiated antitumor activity of ionizing radiation in cancer cell lines. Oral administration of M3541 and M4076 to immunodeficient mice bearing human tumor xenografts with a clinically relevant radiotherapy regimen strongly enhanced the antitumor activity, leading to complete tumor regressions. The efficacy correlated with the inhibition of ATM activity and modulation of its downstream targets in the xenograft tissues. In vitro and in vivo experiments demonstrated strong combination potential with PARP and topoisomerase I inhibitors. M4076 is currently under clinical investigation.
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Affiliation(s)
- Astrid Zimmermann
- Translational Innovation Platform Oncology and Immuno-Oncology, The Healthcare Business of Merck KGaA, Darmstadt, Germany
| | - Frank T. Zenke
- Translational Innovation Platform Oncology and Immuno-Oncology, The Healthcare Business of Merck KGaA, Darmstadt, Germany
| | - Li-Ya Chiu
- Translational Innovation Platform Oncology and Immuno-Oncology, EMD Serono, Billerica, Massachusetts
| | - Heike Dahmen
- Translational Innovation Platform Oncology and Immuno-Oncology, The Healthcare Business of Merck KGaA, Darmstadt, Germany
| | - Ulrich Pehl
- Discovery and Development Technologies, Cellular Pharmacology, The Healthcare Business of Merck KGaA, Darmstadt, Germany
| | - Thomas Fuchss
- Discovery and Development Technologies, Global Medicinal Chemistry, The Healthcare Business of Merck KGaA, Darmstadt, Germany
| | - Thomas Grombacher
- Translational Medicine, The Healthcare Business of Merck KGaA, Darmstadt, Germany
| | - Beatrix Blume
- Discovery and Development Technologies, Cellular Pharmacology, The Healthcare Business of Merck KGaA, Darmstadt, Germany
| | - Lyubomir T. Vassilev
- Translational Innovation Platform Oncology and Immuno-Oncology, EMD Serono, Billerica, Massachusetts
| | - Andree Blaukat
- Translational Innovation Platform Oncology and Immuno-Oncology, The Healthcare Business of Merck KGaA, Darmstadt, Germany
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Chughtai AA, Pannhausen J, Dinger P, Wirtz J, Knüchel R, Gaisa NT, Eble MJ, Rose M. Effective Radiosensitization of Bladder Cancer Cells by Pharmacological Inhibition of DNA-PK and ATR. Biomedicines 2022; 10:biomedicines10061277. [PMID: 35740300 PMCID: PMC9220184 DOI: 10.3390/biomedicines10061277] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/21/2022] [Revised: 05/24/2022] [Accepted: 05/27/2022] [Indexed: 12/09/2022] Open
Abstract
This study aims at analyzing the impact of the pharmacological inhibition of DNA damage response (DDR) targets (DNA-PK and ATR) on radiosensitization of bladder cancer cell lines of different molecular/histological subtypes. Applying DNA-PK (AZD7648) and ATR (Ceralasertib) inhibitors on SCaBER, J82 and VMCUB-1 bladder cancer cell lines, we revealed sensitization upon ionizing radiation (IR), i.e., the IC50 for each drug shifted to a lower drug concentration with increased IR doses. In line with this, drug exposure retarded DNA repair after IR-induced DNA damage visualized by a neutral comet assay. Western blot analyses confirmed specific inhibition of targeted DDR pathways in the analyzed bladder cancer cell lines, i.e., drugs blocked DNA-PK phosphorylation at Ser2056 and the ATR downstream mediator CHK1 at Ser317. Interestingly, clonogenic survival assays indicated a cell-line-dependent synergism of combined DDR inhibition upon IR. Calculating combined index (CI) values, with and without IR, according to the Chou–Talalay method, confirmed drug- and IR-dose-specific synergistic CI values. Thus, we provide functional evidence that DNA-PK and ATR inhibitors specifically target corresponding DDR pathways retarding the DNA repair process at nano-molar concentrations. This, in turn, leads to a strong radiosensitizing effect and impairs the survival of bladder cancer cells.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ahmed Ali Chughtai
- Department of Radiation Oncology, RWTH Aachen University, 52074 Aachen, Germany;
- Correspondence: (A.A.C.); (M.R.); Tel.: +49-241-8036863 (A.A.C.); +49-241-8089715 (M.R.); Fax: +49-241-8082425 (A.A.C.); +49-241-8082439 (M.R.)
| | - Julia Pannhausen
- Institute of Pathology, RWTH Aachen University, 52074 Aachen, Germany; (J.P.); (P.D.); (J.W.); (R.K.); (N.T.G.)
- Center for Integrated Oncology Aachen Bonn Cologne Duesseldorf (CIO ABCD), 52074 Aachen, Germany
| | - Pia Dinger
- Institute of Pathology, RWTH Aachen University, 52074 Aachen, Germany; (J.P.); (P.D.); (J.W.); (R.K.); (N.T.G.)
- Center for Integrated Oncology Aachen Bonn Cologne Duesseldorf (CIO ABCD), 52074 Aachen, Germany
| | - Julia Wirtz
- Institute of Pathology, RWTH Aachen University, 52074 Aachen, Germany; (J.P.); (P.D.); (J.W.); (R.K.); (N.T.G.)
- Center for Integrated Oncology Aachen Bonn Cologne Duesseldorf (CIO ABCD), 52074 Aachen, Germany
| | - Ruth Knüchel
- Institute of Pathology, RWTH Aachen University, 52074 Aachen, Germany; (J.P.); (P.D.); (J.W.); (R.K.); (N.T.G.)
- Center for Integrated Oncology Aachen Bonn Cologne Duesseldorf (CIO ABCD), 52074 Aachen, Germany
| | - Nadine T. Gaisa
- Institute of Pathology, RWTH Aachen University, 52074 Aachen, Germany; (J.P.); (P.D.); (J.W.); (R.K.); (N.T.G.)
- Center for Integrated Oncology Aachen Bonn Cologne Duesseldorf (CIO ABCD), 52074 Aachen, Germany
| | - Michael J. Eble
- Department of Radiation Oncology, RWTH Aachen University, 52074 Aachen, Germany;
| | - Michael Rose
- Institute of Pathology, RWTH Aachen University, 52074 Aachen, Germany; (J.P.); (P.D.); (J.W.); (R.K.); (N.T.G.)
- Center for Integrated Oncology Aachen Bonn Cologne Duesseldorf (CIO ABCD), 52074 Aachen, Germany
- Correspondence: (A.A.C.); (M.R.); Tel.: +49-241-8036863 (A.A.C.); +49-241-8089715 (M.R.); Fax: +49-241-8082425 (A.A.C.); +49-241-8082439 (M.R.)
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Methylation-mediated silencing of protein kinase C zeta induces apoptosis avoidance through ATM/CHK2 inactivation in dedifferentiated chondrosarcoma. Br J Cancer 2022; 126:1289-1300. [PMID: 35017658 PMCID: PMC9042856 DOI: 10.1038/s41416-021-01695-1] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/30/2021] [Revised: 12/10/2021] [Accepted: 12/23/2021] [Indexed: 01/13/2023] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Dedifferentiated chondrosarcoma (DDCS) is an aggressive bone tumour with a poor prognosis and no effective treatment. Because changes in DNA methylation play critical roles in DDCS, we explored the roles that DNA methylation plays in oncogenesis to potentially identify an effective epigenetic treatment. METHODS We identified genes downregulated in DDCS vs. conventional chondrosarcoma (CCS) due to DNA methylation using in silico analysis. The results were validated in DDCS clinical samples, and the molecular functions of the genes of interest were investigated in multiple chondrosarcoma cell lines (NDCS-1, SW1353, and OUMS-27). The therapeutic effect of decitabine, a DNA methyltransferase inhibitor, was evaluated in vitro and in vivo. RESULTS PRKCZ was specifically downregulated by DNA methylation in DDCS. Overexpression of PRKCZ decreased the proliferation of NDCS-1 and SW1353 cells. PRKCZ directly bound to and activated ATM, which was followed by phosphorylation of CHK2 and subsequent apoptosis. Decitabine increased PRKCZ expression through de-methylating the promoter region of PRKCZ, which activated the ATM/CHK2 pathway and inhibited cell proliferation by inducing apoptosis. CONCLUSIONS Increased DNA methylation and reduced expression of PRKCZ prevents apoptosis via inactivation of the ATM/CHK2 pathway in DDCS. Decitabine-induced expression of PRKCZ represents a promising therapy for DDCS.
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Chen P, Bin H, Jiao Y, Lin G, Zhang Y, Xia A, Pan Z, Qiao J, Guo Y, Liu J, Zhou Y, Li L. Discovery of 6,7-dihydro-5H-pyrrolo[3,4-d] pyrimidine derivatives as a new class of ATR inhibitors. Bioorg Med Chem Lett 2022; 63:128651. [PMID: 35245663 DOI: 10.1016/j.bmcl.2022.128651] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/03/2021] [Revised: 02/22/2022] [Accepted: 02/27/2022] [Indexed: 02/08/2023]
Abstract
Ataxia telangiectasia and Rad3-related (ATR) kinase is a key regulating protein within the DNA damage response (DDR), responsible for sensing replication stress (RS), and has been considered as a potential target for cancer therapy. Herein, we report the discovery of a series of 6,7-dihydro-5H-pyrrolo[3,4-d]-pyrimidine derivatives as a new class of ATR inhibitors. Among them, compound 5g exhibits an IC50 value of 0.007 μM against ATR kinase. In vitro, 5g displays good anti-tumor activity and could significantly reduce the phosphorylation level of ATR and its downstream signaling protein. Overall, this study provides a promising lead compound for subsequent drug discovery targeting ATR kinase.
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Affiliation(s)
- Pei Chen
- Key Laboratory of Drug Targeting and Drug Delivery System of Ministry of Education, West China School of Pharmacy, Sichuan University, Sichuan 610041, China
| | - Huachao Bin
- State Key Laboratory of Biotherapy and Cancer Center, West China Hospital, Sichuan University, Chengdu, Sichuan 610041, China
| | - Yan Jiao
- State Key Laboratory of Biotherapy and Cancer Center, West China Hospital, Sichuan University, Chengdu, Sichuan 610041, China
| | - Guifeng Lin
- State Key Laboratory of Biotherapy and Cancer Center, West China Hospital, Sichuan University, Chengdu, Sichuan 610041, China
| | - Yun Zhang
- State Key Laboratory of Biotherapy and Cancer Center, West China Hospital, Sichuan University, Chengdu, Sichuan 610041, China; Macular Disease Research Laboratory, Department of Ophthalmology, West China Hospital, Sichuan University, Sichuan 610041, China
| | - Anjie Xia
- State Key Laboratory of Biotherapy and Cancer Center, West China Hospital, Sichuan University, Chengdu, Sichuan 610041, China
| | - Zhilin Pan
- State Key Laboratory of Biotherapy and Cancer Center, West China Hospital, Sichuan University, Chengdu, Sichuan 610041, China
| | - Jingxin Qiao
- State Key Laboratory of Biotherapy and Cancer Center, West China Hospital, Sichuan University, Chengdu, Sichuan 610041, China
| | - Yinping Guo
- State Key Laboratory of Biotherapy and Cancer Center, West China Hospital, Sichuan University, Chengdu, Sichuan 610041, China
| | - Jingming Liu
- State Key Laboratory of Biotherapy and Cancer Center, West China Hospital, Sichuan University, Chengdu, Sichuan 610041, China
| | - Yangli Zhou
- State Key Laboratory of Biotherapy and Cancer Center, West China Hospital, Sichuan University, Chengdu, Sichuan 610041, China
| | - Linli Li
- Key Laboratory of Drug Targeting and Drug Delivery System of Ministry of Education, West China School of Pharmacy, Sichuan University, Sichuan 610041, China.
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Dalmasso B, Puccini A, Catalano F, Borea R, Iaia ML, Bruno W, Fornarini G, Sciallero S, Rebuzzi SE, Ghiorzo P. Beyond BRCA: The Emerging Significance of DNA Damage Response and Personalized Treatment in Pancreatic and Prostate Cancer Patients. Int J Mol Sci 2022; 23:ijms23094709. [PMID: 35563100 PMCID: PMC9099822 DOI: 10.3390/ijms23094709] [Citation(s) in RCA: 12] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/21/2022] [Revised: 04/19/2022] [Accepted: 04/20/2022] [Indexed: 12/07/2022] Open
Abstract
The BRCA1/2 germline and/or somatic pathogenic variants (PVs) are key players in the hereditary predisposition and therapeutic response for breast, ovarian and, more recently, pancreatic and prostate cancers. Aberrations in other genes involved in homologous recombination and DNA damage response (DDR) pathways are being investigated as promising targets in ongoing clinical trials. However, DDR genes are not routinely tested worldwide. Due to heterogeneity in cohort selection and dissimilar sequencing approaches across studies, neither the burden of PVs in DDR genes nor the prevalence of PVs in genes in common among pancreatic and prostate cancer can be easily quantified. We aim to contextualize these genes, altered in both pancreatic and prostate cancers, in the DDR process, to summarize their hereditary and somatic burden in different studies and harness their deficiency for cancer treatments in the context of currently ongoing clinical trials. We conclude that the inclusion of DDR genes, other than BRCA1/2, shared by both cancers considerably increases the detection rate of potentially actionable variants, which are triplicated in pancreatic and almost doubled in prostate cancer. Thus, DDR alterations are suitable targets for drug development and to improve the outcome in both pancreatic and prostate cancer patients. Importantly, this will increase the detection of germline pathogenic variants, thereby patient referral to genetic counseling.
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Affiliation(s)
- Bruna Dalmasso
- IRCCS Ospedale Policlinico San Martino, Genetics of Rare Cancers, 16132 Genoa, Italy; (B.D.); (W.B.)
| | - Alberto Puccini
- IRCCS Ospedale Policlinico San Martino, Medical Oncology Unit 1, 16132 Genoa, Italy; (A.P.); (F.C.); (R.B.); (M.L.I.); (G.F.); (S.S.)
| | - Fabio Catalano
- IRCCS Ospedale Policlinico San Martino, Medical Oncology Unit 1, 16132 Genoa, Italy; (A.P.); (F.C.); (R.B.); (M.L.I.); (G.F.); (S.S.)
| | - Roberto Borea
- IRCCS Ospedale Policlinico San Martino, Medical Oncology Unit 1, 16132 Genoa, Italy; (A.P.); (F.C.); (R.B.); (M.L.I.); (G.F.); (S.S.)
| | - Maria Laura Iaia
- IRCCS Ospedale Policlinico San Martino, Medical Oncology Unit 1, 16132 Genoa, Italy; (A.P.); (F.C.); (R.B.); (M.L.I.); (G.F.); (S.S.)
| | - William Bruno
- IRCCS Ospedale Policlinico San Martino, Genetics of Rare Cancers, 16132 Genoa, Italy; (B.D.); (W.B.)
- Department of Internal Medicine and Medical Specialties, University of Genoa, 16132 Genoa, Italy;
| | - Giuseppe Fornarini
- IRCCS Ospedale Policlinico San Martino, Medical Oncology Unit 1, 16132 Genoa, Italy; (A.P.); (F.C.); (R.B.); (M.L.I.); (G.F.); (S.S.)
| | - Stefania Sciallero
- IRCCS Ospedale Policlinico San Martino, Medical Oncology Unit 1, 16132 Genoa, Italy; (A.P.); (F.C.); (R.B.); (M.L.I.); (G.F.); (S.S.)
| | - Sara Elena Rebuzzi
- Department of Internal Medicine and Medical Specialties, University of Genoa, 16132 Genoa, Italy;
- Ospedale San Paolo, Medical Oncology, 17100 Savona, Italy
| | - Paola Ghiorzo
- IRCCS Ospedale Policlinico San Martino, Genetics of Rare Cancers, 16132 Genoa, Italy; (B.D.); (W.B.)
- Department of Internal Medicine and Medical Specialties, University of Genoa, 16132 Genoa, Italy;
- Correspondence:
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A clinically relevant heterozygous ATR mutation sensitizes colorectal cancer cells to replication stress. Sci Rep 2022; 12:5422. [PMID: 35361811 PMCID: PMC8971416 DOI: 10.1038/s41598-022-09308-4] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/20/2021] [Accepted: 03/03/2022] [Indexed: 12/21/2022] Open
Abstract
Colorectal cancer (CRC) ranks third among the most frequent malignancies and represents the second most common cause of cancer-related deaths worldwide. By interfering with the DNA replication process of cancer cells, several chemotherapeutic molecules used in CRC therapy induce replication stress (RS). At the cellular level, this stress is managed by the ATR-CHK1 pathway, which activates the replication checkpoint. In recent years, the therapeutic value of targeting this pathway has been demonstrated. Moreover, MSI + (microsatellite instability) tumors frequently harbor a nonsense, heterozygous mutation in the ATR gene. Using isogenic HCT116 clones, we showed that this mutation of ATR sensitizes the cells to several drugs, including SN-38 (topoisomerase I inhibitor) and VE-822 (ATR inhibitor) and exacerbates their synergistic effects. We showed that this mutation bottlenecks the replication checkpoint leading to extensive DNA damage. The combination of VE-822 and SN-38 induces an exhaustion of RPA and a subsequent replication catastrophe. Surviving cells complete replication and accumulate in G2 in a DNA-PK-dependent manner, protecting them from cell death. Together, our results suggest that RPA and DNA-PK represent promising therapeutic targets to optimize the inhibition of the ATR-CHK1 pathway in oncology. Ultimately, ATR frameshift mutations found in patients may also represent important prognostic factors.
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Ali M, Lu M, Ang HX, Soderquist RS, Eyler CE, Hutchinson HM, Glass C, Bassil CF, Lopez OM, Kerr DL, Falcon CJ, Yu HA, Hata AN, Blakely CM, McCoach CE, Bivona TG, Wood KC. Small-molecule targeted therapies induce dependence on DNA double-strand break repair in residual tumor cells. Sci Transl Med 2022; 14:eabc7480. [PMID: 35353542 PMCID: PMC9516479 DOI: 10.1126/scitranslmed.abc7480] [Citation(s) in RCA: 19] [Impact Index Per Article: 9.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/13/2022]
Abstract
Residual cancer cells that survive drug treatments with targeted therapies act as a reservoir from which eventual resistant disease emerges. Although there is great interest in therapeutically targeting residual cells, efforts are hampered by our limited knowledge of the vulnerabilities existing in this cell state. Here, we report that diverse oncogene-targeted therapies, including inhibitors of epidermal growth factor receptor (EGFR), anaplastic lymphoma kinase (ALK), KRAS, and BRAF, induce DNA double-strand breaks and, consequently, ataxia-telangiectasia mutated (ATM)-dependent DNA repair in oncogene-matched residual tumor cells. This DNA damage response, observed in cell lines, mouse xenograft models, and human patients, is driven by a pathway involving the activation of caspases 3 and 7 and the downstream caspase-activated deoxyribonuclease (CAD). CAD is, in turn, activated through caspase-mediated degradation of its endogenous inhibitor, ICAD. In models of EGFR mutant non-small cell lung cancer (NSCLC), tumor cells that survive treatment with small-molecule EGFR-targeted therapies are thus synthetically dependent on ATM, and combined treatment with an ATM kinase inhibitor eradicates these cells in vivo. This led to more penetrant and durable responses in EGFR mutant NSCLC mouse xenograft models, including those derived from both established cell lines and patient tumors. Last, we found that rare patients with EGFR mutant NSCLC harboring co-occurring, loss-of-function mutations in ATM exhibit extended progression-free survival on first generation EGFR inhibitor therapy relative to patients with EGFR mutant NSCLC lacking deleterious ATM mutations. Together, these findings establish a rationale for the mechanism-based integration of ATM inhibitors alongside existing targeted therapies.
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Affiliation(s)
- Moiez Ali
- Department of Pharmacology and Cancer Biology and Duke Cancer Institute, Duke University, Durham, NC 27710, USA
| | - Min Lu
- Department of Pharmacology and Cancer Biology and Duke Cancer Institute, Duke University, Durham, NC 27710, USA
| | - Hazel Xiaohui Ang
- Department of Pharmacology and Cancer Biology and Duke Cancer Institute, Duke University, Durham, NC 27710, USA
| | - Ryan S. Soderquist
- Department of Pharmacology and Cancer Biology and Duke Cancer Institute, Duke University, Durham, NC 27710, USA
| | - Christine E. Eyler
- Department of Pharmacology and Cancer Biology and Duke Cancer Institute, Duke University, Durham, NC 27710, USA
| | - Haley M. Hutchinson
- Department of Pharmacology and Cancer Biology and Duke Cancer Institute, Duke University, Durham, NC 27710, USA
| | - Carolyn Glass
- Department of Pathology, Duke University, Durham, NC 27710, USA
| | - Christopher F. Bassil
- Department of Pharmacology and Cancer Biology and Duke Cancer Institute, Duke University, Durham, NC 27710, USA
| | - Omar M. Lopez
- Department of Pharmacology and Cancer Biology and Duke Cancer Institute, Duke University, Durham, NC 27710, USA
| | - D. Lucas Kerr
- Department of Medicine and Helen Diller Family Comprehensive Cancer Center, University of California, San Francisco, San Francisco, CA 94143, USA
| | - Christina J. Falcon
- Thoracic Oncology Service, Division of Solid Tumor Oncology, Department of Medicine, Memorial Sloan Kettering Cancer Center, Weill Cornell Medical College, New York, NY 10065, USA
| | - Helena A. Yu
- Thoracic Oncology Service, Division of Solid Tumor Oncology, Department of Medicine, Memorial Sloan Kettering Cancer Center, Weill Cornell Medical College, New York, NY 10065, USA
| | - Aaron N. Hata
- Massachusetts General Hospital Cancer Center and Harvard Medical School, Charlestown, MA 02129, USA
| | - Collin M. Blakely
- Department of Medicine and Helen Diller Family Comprehensive Cancer Center, University of California, San Francisco, San Francisco, CA 94143, USA
| | - Caroline E. McCoach
- Department of Medicine and Helen Diller Family Comprehensive Cancer Center, University of California, San Francisco, San Francisco, CA 94143, USA
| | - Trever G. Bivona
- Department of Medicine and Helen Diller Family Comprehensive Cancer Center, University of California, San Francisco, San Francisco, CA 94143, USA
| | - Kris C. Wood
- Department of Pharmacology and Cancer Biology and Duke Cancer Institute, Duke University, Durham, NC 27710, USA
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Bin H, Chen P, Wu M, Wang F, Lin G, Pan S, Liu J, Mu B, Nan J, Huang Q, Li L, Yang S. Discovery of a potent and highly selective inhibitor of ataxia telangiectasia mutated and Rad3-Related (ATR) kinase: Structural activity relationship and antitumor activity both in vitro and in vivo. Eur J Med Chem 2022; 232:114187. [DOI: 10.1016/j.ejmech.2022.114187] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/23/2021] [Revised: 01/28/2022] [Accepted: 02/04/2022] [Indexed: 11/26/2022]
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Choi W, Lee ES. Therapeutic Targeting of DNA Damage Response in Cancer. Int J Mol Sci 2022; 23:ijms23031701. [PMID: 35163621 PMCID: PMC8836062 DOI: 10.3390/ijms23031701] [Citation(s) in RCA: 24] [Impact Index Per Article: 12.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/29/2021] [Revised: 01/25/2022] [Accepted: 01/29/2022] [Indexed: 02/07/2023] Open
Abstract
DNA damage response (DDR) is critical to ensure genome stability, and defects in this signaling pathway are highly associated with carcinogenesis and tumor progression. Nevertheless, this also provides therapeutic opportunities, as cells with defective DDR signaling are directed to rely on compensatory survival pathways, and these vulnerabilities have been exploited for anticancer treatments. Following the impressive success of PARP inhibitors in the treatment of BRCA-mutated breast and ovarian cancers, extensive research has been conducted toward the development of pharmacologic inhibitors of the key components of the DDR signaling pathway. In this review, we discuss the key elements of the DDR pathway and how these molecular components may serve as anticancer treatment targets. We also summarize the recent promising developments in the field of DDR pathway inhibitors, focusing on novel agents beyond PARP inhibitors. Furthermore, we discuss biomarker studies to identify target patients expected to derive maximal clinical benefits as well as combination strategies with other classes of anticancer agents to synergize and optimize the clinical benefits.
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Affiliation(s)
- Wonyoung Choi
- Research Institute, National Cancer Center, Goyang 10408, Korea;
- Center for Clinical Trials, National Cancer Center, Goyang 10408, Korea
| | - Eun Sook Lee
- Research Institute, National Cancer Center, Goyang 10408, Korea;
- Center for Breast Cancer, National Cancer Center, Goyang 10408, Korea
- Correspondence: ; Tel.: +82-31-920-1633
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Radiosensitisation of SCCVII tumours and normal tissues in mice by the DNA-dependent protein kinase inhibitor AZD7648. Radiother Oncol 2021; 166:162-170. [PMID: 34861268 DOI: 10.1016/j.radonc.2021.11.027] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/27/2021] [Revised: 10/18/2021] [Accepted: 11/22/2021] [Indexed: 11/20/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND AND PURPOSE Inhibitors of DNA-dependent protein kinase (DNA-PK) are effective radiation sensitisers in preclinical tumours, but little is known about risks of normal tissue radiosensitisation. Here, we evaluate radiosensitisation of head and neck squamous cell carcinoma (HNSCC) cells by DNA-PK inhibitor AZD7648 under oxia and anoxia in vitro, and tumour (SCCVII), oral mucosa and small intestine in mice. MATERIALS AND METHODS Radiosensitisation of human (UT-SCC-54C) and murine (SCCVII) HNSCC cells by AZD7648 under oxia and anoxia was evaluated by clonogenic assay. Radiosensitisation of SCCVII tumours in C3H mice by oral AZD7648 (75 mg/kg) was determined by ex vivo clonogenic assay 3.5 days post-irradiation, with evaluation of normal tissue surrogate endpoints using 5-ethynyl-2'-deoxyuridine to facilitate detection of regenerating crypts in the ileum and repopulating S-phase cells in the ileum and oral mucosa of the same animals. RESULTS AZD7648 potently radiosensitised both cell lines, with similar sensitiser enhancement ratios for 10% survival (SER10) under oxia and anoxia. AZD7648 diffused rapidly through multicellular layers, suggesting rapid equilibration between plasma and hypoxic zones in tumours. SCCVII tumours were radiosensitised by AZD7648 (SER10 2.5). AZD7648 also enhanced radiation-induced body weight loss and suppressed regenerating intestinal crypts and repopulating S-phase cells in the ileum and tongue epithelium with SER values similar to SCCVII tumours. CONCLUSION AZD7648 is a potent radiation sensitiser of both oxic and anoxic tumour cells, but also markedly radiosensitises stem cells in the small intestine and oral mucosa.
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Abstract
At fifteen different genomic locations, the expansion of a CAG/CTG repeat causes a neurodegenerative or neuromuscular disease, the most common being Huntington's disease and myotonic dystrophy type 1. These disorders are characterized by germline and somatic instability of the causative CAG/CTG repeat mutations. Repeat lengthening, or expansion, in the germline leads to an earlier age of onset or more severe symptoms in the next generation. In somatic cells, repeat expansion is thought to precipitate the rate of disease. The mechanisms underlying repeat instability are not well understood. Here we review the mammalian model systems that have been used to study CAG/CTG repeat instability, and the modifiers identified in these systems. Mouse models have demonstrated prominent roles for proteins in the mismatch repair pathway as critical drivers of CAG/CTG instability, which is also suggested by recent genome-wide association studies in humans. We draw attention to a network of connections between modifiers identified across several systems that might indicate pathway crosstalk in the context of repeat instability, and which could provide hypotheses for further validation or discovery. Overall, the data indicate that repeat dynamics might be modulated by altering the levels of DNA metabolic proteins, their regulation, their interaction with chromatin, or by direct perturbation of the repeat tract. Applying novel methodologies and technologies to this exciting area of research will be needed to gain deeper mechanistic insight that can be harnessed for therapies aimed at preventing repeat expansion or promoting repeat contraction.
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Affiliation(s)
- Vanessa C. Wheeler
- Molecular Neurogenetics Unit, Center for Genomic Medicine, Massachusetts General Hospital, Boston, MA, USA,Department of Neurology, Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA, USA,Correspondence to: Vanessa C. Wheeler, Center for Genomic Medicine, Massachusetts Hospital, Boston MAA 02115, USA. E-mail: . and Vincent Dion, UK Dementia Research Institute at Cardiff University, Hadyn Ellis Building, Maindy Road, CF24 4HQ Cardiff, UK. E-mail:
| | - Vincent Dion
- UK Dementia Research Institute at Cardiff University, Hadyn Ellis Building, Maindy Road, Cardiff, UK,Correspondence to: Vanessa C. Wheeler, Center for Genomic Medicine, Massachusetts Hospital, Boston MAA 02115, USA. E-mail: . and Vincent Dion, UK Dementia Research Institute at Cardiff University, Hadyn Ellis Building, Maindy Road, CF24 4HQ Cardiff, UK. E-mail:
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Molecular basis of human ATM kinase inhibition. Nat Struct Mol Biol 2021; 28:789-798. [PMID: 34556870 DOI: 10.1038/s41594-021-00654-x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 23] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/03/2021] [Accepted: 07/30/2021] [Indexed: 12/15/2022]
Abstract
Human checkpoint kinase ataxia telangiectasia-mutated (ATM) plays a key role in initiation of the DNA damage response following DNA double-strand breaks. ATM inhibition is a promising approach in cancer therapy, but, so far, detailed insights into the binding modes of known ATM inhibitors have been hampered due to the lack of high-resolution ATM structures. Using cryo-EM, we have determined the structure of human ATM to an overall resolution sufficient to build a near-complete atomic model and identify two hitherto unknown zinc-binding motifs. We determined the structure of the kinase domain bound to ATPγS and to the ATM inhibitors KU-55933 and M4076 at 2.8 Å, 2.8 Å and 3.0 Å resolution, respectively. The mode of action and selectivity of the ATM inhibitors can be explained by structural comparison and provide a framework for structure-based drug design.
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Cyclin-dependent kinases-based synthetic lethality: Evidence, concept, and strategy. Acta Pharm Sin B 2021; 11:2738-2748. [PMID: 34589394 PMCID: PMC8463275 DOI: 10.1016/j.apsb.2021.01.002] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/27/2020] [Revised: 10/02/2020] [Accepted: 10/23/2020] [Indexed: 01/15/2023] Open
Abstract
Synthetic lethality is a proven effective antitumor strategy that has attracted great attention. Large-scale screening has revealed many synthetic lethal genetic phenotypes, and relevant small-molecule drugs have also been implemented in clinical practice. Increasing evidence suggests that CDKs, constituting a kinase family predominantly involved in cell cycle control, are synthetic lethal factors when combined with certain oncogenes, such as MYC, TP53, and RAS, which facilitate numerous antitumor treatment options based on CDK-related synthetic lethality. In this review, we focus on the synthetic lethal phenotype and mechanism related to CDKs and summarize the preclinical and clinical discoveries of CDK inhibitors to explore the prospect of CDK inhibitors as antitumor compounds for strategic synthesis lethality in the future.
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Vaidyanathan A, Kaklamani V. Understanding the Clinical Implications of Low Penetrant Genes and Breast Cancer Risk. Curr Treat Options Oncol 2021; 22:85. [PMID: 34424438 DOI: 10.1007/s11864-021-00887-4] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 04/30/2021] [Indexed: 10/20/2022]
Abstract
OPINION STATEMENT Since the 2013 Supreme Court declaration, panel testing for hereditary cancer syndromes has evolved into the gold standard for oncology germline genetic testing. With the advent of next-generation sequencing, competitive pricing, and developing therapeutic options, panel testing is now well integrated into breast cancer management and surveillance. Although many established syndromes have well-defined cancer risks and management strategies, several breast cancer genes are currently classified as limited-evidence genes by the National Comprehensive Cancer Network (NCCN). Follow-up for individuals with mutations in these genes is a point of contention due to conflicting information in the literature. The most recent NCCN guidelines have stratified management based on gene-specific cancer risks indicating that expanding data will allow for better recommendations as research progresses. The evolving management for these genes emphasizes the clinicians' need for evidence-based understanding of low penetrance breast cancer genes and their implications for patient care. This article reviews current literature for limited evidence genes, detailing cancer risks, association with triple-negative breast cancer, and recommendations for surveillance. A brief review of the challenges and future directions is outlined to discuss the evolving nature of cancer genetics and the exciting opportunities that can impact management.
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Affiliation(s)
- Anusha Vaidyanathan
- UT Health Science Center San Antonio, 7979 Wurzbach Road, San Antonio, TX, 79229, USA.
| | - Virginia Kaklamani
- UT Health Science Center San Antonio, 7979 Wurzbach Road, San Antonio, TX, 79229, USA
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Hu H, Chen W, Zhang S, Xue Y, He Y, Gu Y. NEAT1/miR-101-dependent Up-regulation of DNA-PKcs Enhances Malignant Behaviors of Pancreatic Ductal Adenocarcinoma Cells. J Cancer 2021; 12:5622-5632. [PMID: 34405022 PMCID: PMC8364653 DOI: 10.7150/jca.58824] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/30/2021] [Accepted: 07/09/2021] [Indexed: 12/25/2022] Open
Abstract
Background: Although we previously revealed that DNA-dependent protein kinase catalytic subunit (DNA-PKcs) is overexpressed in pancreatic ductal adenocarcinoma (PDAC) and important for gemcitabine resistance, the role of DNA-PKcs in the progression and metastasis of PDAC remain unclear. To date, the upstream signaling events stimulating DNA-PKcs overexpression in PDAC are still not well characterized. Methods: Expression of DNA-PKcs was measured by western blot. The levels of miRNA-101 and lncRNA nuclear paraspeckle assembly transcript 1 (NEAT1) were detected by real-time PCR. Cell viability was determined by CCK-8. Cell migration and cell invasion were measured by transwell assay. The regulatory relationship between NEAT1 and miR-101 was determined by a luciferase assay. Results: DNA-PKcs expression was significantly elevated in human PDAC tissues and cells. DNA-PKcs overexpression was correlated with TNM stage and lymph node metastasis. Higher expression of DNA-PKcs was closely correlated with patients of worse overall survival (OS). DNA-PKcs knockdown suppresses malignant behaviors of PDAC cells. Further study showed that miRNA-101 level was decreased in PDAC tissues and cells, which could be responsible for DNA-PKcs overexpression and DNA-PKcs mediated oncogenic actions in PDAC cells. Moreover, NEAT1 functions as an oncogene influencing cell proliferation, migration and invasion in part by serving as a competing endogenous RNA (ceRNAs) modulating miR-101 expression, leading to up-regulation of DNA-PKcs. Conclusion: These findings suggest that NEAT1/miR-101-dependent up-regulation of DNA-PKcs promotes the malignant behaviors of PDAC cells. The NEAT1/miR-101/DNA-PKcs axis may serve as a viable prognostic marker and therapeutic target for PDAC.
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Affiliation(s)
- Hao Hu
- Hepatobiliary and Pancreatic Surgery, Affiliated Hospital of Jiangnan University, 585 Xingyuan Rd, Liangxi District, Wuxi, 214041, China.,School of Medicine, Jiangnan University, Wuxi 214122, China.,Hepatobiliary and Pancreatic Surgery, The Third Hospital Affiliated to Nantong University, Wuxi 214041, China.,Medical School, Nantong University, Nantong 226001, China.,Wuxi Institute of Hepatobiliary Surgery, Wuxi 214041, China
| | - Wuqiang Chen
- Hepatobiliary and Pancreatic Surgery, Affiliated Hospital of Jiangnan University, 585 Xingyuan Rd, Liangxi District, Wuxi, 214041, China.,Wuxi Institute of Hepatobiliary Surgery, Wuxi 214041, China
| | - Shuo Zhang
- Hepatobiliary and Pancreatic Surgery, The Third Hospital Affiliated to Nantong University, Wuxi 214041, China.,Medical School, Nantong University, Nantong 226001, China
| | - Yuzheng Xue
- School of Medicine, Jiangnan University, Wuxi 214122, China.,Department of Gastroenterology, Affiliated Hospital of Jiangnan University, Wuxi 214041, China
| | - Youzhao He
- Hepatobiliary and Pancreatic Surgery, Affiliated Hospital of Jiangnan University, 585 Xingyuan Rd, Liangxi District, Wuxi, 214041, China.,Wuxi Institute of Hepatobiliary Surgery, Wuxi 214041, China
| | - Yuanlong Gu
- Hepatobiliary and Pancreatic Surgery, Affiliated Hospital of Jiangnan University, 585 Xingyuan Rd, Liangxi District, Wuxi, 214041, China.,School of Medicine, Jiangnan University, Wuxi 214122, China.,Wuxi Institute of Hepatobiliary Surgery, Wuxi 214041, China
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McPherson KS, Korzhnev DM. Targeting protein-protein interactions in the DNA damage response pathways for cancer chemotherapy. RSC Chem Biol 2021; 2:1167-1195. [PMID: 34458830 PMCID: PMC8342002 DOI: 10.1039/d1cb00101a] [Citation(s) in RCA: 14] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/02/2021] [Accepted: 06/20/2021] [Indexed: 12/11/2022] Open
Abstract
Cellular DNA damage response (DDR) is an extensive signaling network that orchestrates DNA damage recognition, repair and avoidance, cell cycle progression and cell death. DDR alteration is a hallmark of cancer, with the deficiency in one DDR capability often compensated by a dependency on alternative pathways endowing cancer cells with survival and growth advantage. Targeting these DDR pathways has provided multiple opportunities for the development of cancer therapies. Traditional drug discovery has mainly focused on catalytic inhibitors that block enzyme active sites, which limits the number of potential drug targets within the DDR pathways. This review article describes the emerging approach to the development of cancer therapeutics targeting essential protein-protein interactions (PPIs) in the DDR network. The overall strategy for the structure-based design of small molecule PPI inhibitors is discussed, followed by an overview of the major DNA damage sensing, DNA repair, and DNA damage tolerance pathways with a specific focus on PPI targets for anti-cancer drug design. The existing small molecule inhibitors of DDR PPIs are summarized that selectively kill cancer cells and/or sensitize cancers to front-line genotoxic therapies, and a range of new PPI targets are proposed that may lead to the development of novel chemotherapeutics.
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Affiliation(s)
- Kerry Silva McPherson
- Department of Molecular Biology and Biophysics, University of Connecticut Health Center Farmington CT 06030 USA +1 860 679 3408 +1 860 679 2849
| | - Dmitry M Korzhnev
- Department of Molecular Biology and Biophysics, University of Connecticut Health Center Farmington CT 06030 USA +1 860 679 3408 +1 860 679 2849
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Jo U, Senatorov IS, Zimmermann A, Saha LK, Murai Y, Kim SH, Rajapakse VN, Elloumi F, Takahashi N, Schultz CW, Thomas A, Zenke FT, Pommier Y. Novel and Highly Potent ATR Inhibitor M4344 Kills Cancer Cells With Replication Stress, and Enhances the Chemotherapeutic Activity of Widely Used DNA Damaging Agents. Mol Cancer Ther 2021; 20:1431-1441. [PMID: 34045232 PMCID: PMC9398135 DOI: 10.1158/1535-7163.mct-20-1026] [Citation(s) in RCA: 56] [Impact Index Per Article: 18.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/30/2020] [Revised: 01/26/2021] [Accepted: 05/25/2021] [Indexed: 01/07/2023]
Abstract
Although several ATR inhibitors are in development, there are unresolved questions regarding their differential potency, molecular signatures of patients with cancer for predicting activity, and most effective therapeutic combinations. Here, we elucidate how to improve ATR-based chemotherapy with the newly developed ATR inhibitor, M4344 using in vitro and in vivo models. The potency of M4344 was compared with the clinically developed ATR inhibitors BAY1895344, berzosertib, and ceralasertib. The anticancer activity of M4344 was investigated as monotherapy and combination with clinical DNA damaging agents in multiple cancer cell lines, patient-derived tumor organoids, and mouse xenograft models. We also elucidated the anticancer mechanisms and potential biomarkers for M4344. We demonstrate that M4344 is highly potent among the clinically developed ATR inhibitors. Replication stress (RepStress) and neuroendocrine (NE) gene expression signatures are significantly associated with a response to M4344 treatment. M4344 kills cancer cells by inducing cellular catastrophe and DNA damage. M4344 is highly synergistic with a broad range of DNA-targeting anticancer agents. It significantly synergizes with topotecan and irinotecan in patient-derived tumor organoids and xenograft models. Taken together, M4344 is a promising and highly potent ATR inhibitor. It enhances the activity of clinical DNA damaging agents commonly used in cancer treatment including topoisomerase inhibitors, gemcitabine, cisplatin, and talazoparib. RepStress and NE gene expression signatures can be exploited as predictive markers for M4344.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ukhyun Jo
- Developmental Therapeutics Branch and Laboratory of Molecular Pharmacology, Center for Cancer Research, NCI, Bethesda, Maryland.,Corresponding Authors: Ukhyun Jo and Yves Pommier, 37 Convent Dr., Building 37-Room 5068, Bethesda, MD 20892. Phone: 240-760-6142; Fax: 240-541-4475; E-mail: and
| | - Ilya S. Senatorov
- Laboratory of Genitourinary Cancer Pathogenesis, Center for Cancer Research, National Cancer Institute, Bethesda, Maryland
| | - Astrid Zimmermann
- Merck KGaA, Biopharma R&D, Translational Innovation Platform Oncology, Darmstadt, Germany
| | - Liton Kumar Saha
- Developmental Therapeutics Branch and Laboratory of Molecular Pharmacology, Center for Cancer Research, NCI, Bethesda, Maryland
| | - Yasuhisa Murai
- Developmental Therapeutics Branch and Laboratory of Molecular Pharmacology, Center for Cancer Research, NCI, Bethesda, Maryland
| | - Se Hyun Kim
- Developmental Therapeutics Branch and Laboratory of Molecular Pharmacology, Center for Cancer Research, NCI, Bethesda, Maryland.,Division of Hematology and Medical Oncology, Department of Internal Medicine, Seoul National University Bundang Hospital, Seongnam, Gyeonggi-do, South Korea
| | - Vinodh N. Rajapakse
- Developmental Therapeutics Branch and Laboratory of Molecular Pharmacology, Center for Cancer Research, NCI, Bethesda, Maryland
| | - Fathi Elloumi
- Developmental Therapeutics Branch and Laboratory of Molecular Pharmacology, Center for Cancer Research, NCI, Bethesda, Maryland.,General Dynamics Information Technology Inc., Fairfax, Virginia
| | - Nobuyuki Takahashi
- Developmental Therapeutics Branch and Laboratory of Molecular Pharmacology, Center for Cancer Research, NCI, Bethesda, Maryland
| | - Christopher W. Schultz
- Developmental Therapeutics Branch and Laboratory of Molecular Pharmacology, Center for Cancer Research, NCI, Bethesda, Maryland
| | - Anish Thomas
- Developmental Therapeutics Branch and Laboratory of Molecular Pharmacology, Center for Cancer Research, NCI, Bethesda, Maryland
| | - Frank T. Zenke
- Merck KGaA, Biopharma R&D, Translational Innovation Platform Oncology, Darmstadt, Germany
| | - Yves Pommier
- Developmental Therapeutics Branch and Laboratory of Molecular Pharmacology, Center for Cancer Research, NCI, Bethesda, Maryland.,Corresponding Authors: Ukhyun Jo and Yves Pommier, 37 Convent Dr., Building 37-Room 5068, Bethesda, MD 20892. Phone: 240-760-6142; Fax: 240-541-4475; E-mail: and
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47
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Pons M, Zeyn Y, Zahn S, Mahendrarajah N, Page BDG, Gunning PT, Moriggl R, Brenner W, Butter F, Krämer OH. Oncogenic Kinase Cascades Induce Molecular Mechanisms That Protect Leukemic Cell Models from Lethal Effects of De Novo dNTP Synthesis Inhibition. Cancers (Basel) 2021; 13:3464. [PMID: 34298678 PMCID: PMC8304262 DOI: 10.3390/cancers13143464] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/29/2021] [Revised: 07/07/2021] [Accepted: 07/08/2021] [Indexed: 01/15/2023] Open
Abstract
The ribonucleotide reductase inhibitor hydroxyurea suppresses de novo dNTP synthesis and attenuates the hyperproliferation of leukemic blasts. Mechanisms that determine whether cells undergo apoptosis in response to hydroxyurea are ill-defined. We used unbiased proteomics to uncover which pathways control the transition of the hydroxyurea-induced replication stress into an apoptotic program in chronic and acute myeloid leukemia cells. We noted a decrease in the serine/threonine kinase RAF1/c-RAF in cells that undergo apoptosis in response to clinically relevant doses of hydroxyurea. Using the RAF inhibitor LY3009120, we show that RAF activity determines the sensitivity of leukemic cells toward hydroxyurea. We further disclose that pharmacological inhibition of the RAF downstream target BCL-XL with the drug navitoclax and RNAi combine favorably with hydroxyurea against leukemic cells. BCR-ABL1 and hyperactive FLT3 are tyrosine kinases that causally contribute to the development of leukemia and induce RAF1 and BCL-XL. Accordingly, the ABL inhibitor imatinib and the FLT3 inhibitor quizartinib sensitize leukemic cells to pro-apoptotic effects of hydroxyurea. Moreover, hydroxyurea and navitoclax kill leukemic cells with mutant FLT3 that are resistant to quizartinib. These data reveal cellular susceptibility factors toward hydroxyurea and how they can be exploited to eliminate difficult-to-treat leukemic cells with clinically relevant drug combinations.
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Affiliation(s)
- Miriam Pons
- Department of Toxicology, University Medical Center, 55131 Mainz, Germany; (Y.Z.); (S.Z.); (N.M.)
| | - Yanira Zeyn
- Department of Toxicology, University Medical Center, 55131 Mainz, Germany; (Y.Z.); (S.Z.); (N.M.)
| | - Stella Zahn
- Department of Toxicology, University Medical Center, 55131 Mainz, Germany; (Y.Z.); (S.Z.); (N.M.)
| | - Nisintha Mahendrarajah
- Department of Toxicology, University Medical Center, 55131 Mainz, Germany; (Y.Z.); (S.Z.); (N.M.)
| | - Brent D. G. Page
- Faculty of Pharmaceutical Science, University of British Columbia, Vancouver, BC V6T 1Z4, Canada;
| | - Patrick T. Gunning
- Department of Chemical & Physical Sciences, University of Toronto, Mississauga, ON L5L 1C6, Canada;
- Department of Chemistry, University of Toronto, Toronto, ON M5S 3H6, Canada
| | - Richard Moriggl
- Institute of Animal Breeding and Genetics, University of Veterinary Medicine, 1210 Vienna, Austria;
| | - Walburgis Brenner
- Clinic for Obstetrics and Women’s Health, University Medical Center, 55131 Mainz, Germany;
| | - Falk Butter
- Institute of Molecular Biology (IMB), 55128 Mainz, Germany;
| | - Oliver H. Krämer
- Department of Toxicology, University Medical Center, 55131 Mainz, Germany; (Y.Z.); (S.Z.); (N.M.)
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48
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Goff PH, Bhakuni R, Pulliam T, Lee JH, Hall ET, Nghiem P. Intersection of Two Checkpoints: Could Inhibiting the DNA Damage Response Checkpoint Rescue Immune Checkpoint-Refractory Cancer? Cancers (Basel) 2021; 13:3415. [PMID: 34298632 PMCID: PMC8307089 DOI: 10.3390/cancers13143415] [Citation(s) in RCA: 13] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/09/2021] [Revised: 07/04/2021] [Accepted: 07/05/2021] [Indexed: 12/19/2022] Open
Abstract
Metastatic cancers resistant to immunotherapy require novel management strategies. DNA damage response (DDR) proteins, including ATR (ataxia telangiectasia and Rad3-related), ATM (ataxia telangiectasia mutated) and DNA-PK (DNA-dependent protein kinase), have been promising therapeutic targets for decades. Specific, potent DDR inhibitors (DDRi) recently entered clinical trials. Surprisingly, preclinical studies have now indicated that DDRi may stimulate anti-tumor immunity to augment immunotherapy. The mechanisms governing how DDRi could promote anti-tumor immunity are not well understood; however, early evidence suggests that they can potentiate immunogenic cell death to recruit and activate antigen-presenting cells to prime an adaptive immune response. Merkel cell carcinoma (MCC) is well suited to test these concepts. It is inherently immunogenic as ~50% of patients with advanced MCC persistently benefit from immunotherapy, making MCC one of the most responsive solid tumors. As is typical of neuroendocrine cancers, dysfunction of p53 and Rb with upregulation of Myc leads to the very rapid growth of MCC. This suggests high replication stress and susceptibility to DDRi and DNA-damaging agents. Indeed, MCC tumors are particularly radiosensitive. Given its inherent immunogenicity, cell cycle checkpoint deficiencies and sensitivity to DNA damage, MCC may be ideal for testing whether targeting the intersection of the DDR checkpoint and the immune checkpoint could help patients with immunotherapy-refractory cancers.
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Affiliation(s)
- Peter H. Goff
- Department of Radiation Oncology, University of Washington, Seattle, WA 98195, USA;
| | - Rashmi Bhakuni
- Division of Dermatology, Department of Medicine, University of Washington, Seattle, WA 98109, USA; (R.B.); (T.P.); (J.H.L.)
| | - Thomas Pulliam
- Division of Dermatology, Department of Medicine, University of Washington, Seattle, WA 98109, USA; (R.B.); (T.P.); (J.H.L.)
| | - Jung Hyun Lee
- Division of Dermatology, Department of Medicine, University of Washington, Seattle, WA 98109, USA; (R.B.); (T.P.); (J.H.L.)
- Institute for Stem Cell and Regenerative Medicine, Department of Bioengineering, University of Washington, Seattle, WA 98109, USA
| | - Evan T. Hall
- Division of Medical Oncology, Department of Medicine, University of Washington, Seattle, WA 98109, USA;
- Clinical Research Division, Fred Hutchinson Cancer Research Center, Seattle, WA 98109, USA
| | - Paul Nghiem
- Division of Dermatology, Department of Medicine, University of Washington, Seattle, WA 98109, USA; (R.B.); (T.P.); (J.H.L.)
- Clinical Research Division, Fred Hutchinson Cancer Research Center, Seattle, WA 98109, USA
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49
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Tomasini PP, Guecheva TN, Leguisamo NM, Péricart S, Brunac AC, Hoffmann JS, Saffi J. Analyzing the Opportunities to Target DNA Double-Strand Breaks Repair and Replicative Stress Responses to Improve Therapeutic Index of Colorectal Cancer. Cancers (Basel) 2021; 13:3130. [PMID: 34201502 PMCID: PMC8268241 DOI: 10.3390/cancers13133130] [Citation(s) in RCA: 12] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/06/2021] [Revised: 06/15/2021] [Accepted: 06/18/2021] [Indexed: 12/22/2022] Open
Abstract
Despite the ample improvements of CRC molecular landscape, the therapeutic options still rely on conventional chemotherapy-based regimens for early disease, and few targeted agents are recommended for clinical use in the metastatic setting. Moreover, the impact of cytotoxic, targeted agents, and immunotherapy combinations in the metastatic scenario is not fully satisfactory, especially the outcomes for patients who develop resistance to these treatments need to be improved. Here, we examine the opportunity to consider therapeutic agents targeting DNA repair and DNA replication stress response as strategies to exploit genetic or functional defects in the DNA damage response (DDR) pathways through synthetic lethal mechanisms, still not explored in CRC. These include the multiple actors involved in the repair of DNA double-strand breaks (DSBs) through homologous recombination (HR), classical non-homologous end joining (NHEJ), and microhomology-mediated end-joining (MMEJ), inhibitors of the base excision repair (BER) protein poly (ADP-ribose) polymerase (PARP), as well as inhibitors of the DNA damage kinases ataxia-telangiectasia and Rad3 related (ATR), CHK1, WEE1, and ataxia-telangiectasia mutated (ATM). We also review the biomarkers that guide the use of these agents, and current clinical trials with targeted DDR therapies.
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Affiliation(s)
- Paula Pellenz Tomasini
- Laboratory of Genetic Toxicology, Federal University of Health Sciences of Porto Alegre, Avenida Sarmento Leite, 245, Porto Alegre 90050-170, Brazil; (P.P.T.); (N.M.L.)
- Post-Graduation Program in Cell and Molecular Biology, Federal University of Rio Grande do Sul, Avenida Bento Gonçalves, 9500, Porto Alegre 91501-970, Brazil
| | - Temenouga Nikolova Guecheva
- Cardiology Institute of Rio Grande do Sul, University Foundation of Cardiology (IC-FUC), Porto Alegre 90620-000, Brazil;
| | - Natalia Motta Leguisamo
- Laboratory of Genetic Toxicology, Federal University of Health Sciences of Porto Alegre, Avenida Sarmento Leite, 245, Porto Alegre 90050-170, Brazil; (P.P.T.); (N.M.L.)
| | - Sarah Péricart
- Laboratoire D’Excellence Toulouse Cancer (TOUCAN), Laboratoire de Pathologie, Institut Universitaire du Cancer-Toulouse, Oncopole, 1 Avenue Irène-Joliot-Curie, 31059 Toulouse, France; (S.P.); (A.-C.B.); (J.S.H.)
| | - Anne-Cécile Brunac
- Laboratoire D’Excellence Toulouse Cancer (TOUCAN), Laboratoire de Pathologie, Institut Universitaire du Cancer-Toulouse, Oncopole, 1 Avenue Irène-Joliot-Curie, 31059 Toulouse, France; (S.P.); (A.-C.B.); (J.S.H.)
| | - Jean Sébastien Hoffmann
- Laboratoire D’Excellence Toulouse Cancer (TOUCAN), Laboratoire de Pathologie, Institut Universitaire du Cancer-Toulouse, Oncopole, 1 Avenue Irène-Joliot-Curie, 31059 Toulouse, France; (S.P.); (A.-C.B.); (J.S.H.)
| | - Jenifer Saffi
- Laboratory of Genetic Toxicology, Federal University of Health Sciences of Porto Alegre, Avenida Sarmento Leite, 245, Porto Alegre 90050-170, Brazil; (P.P.T.); (N.M.L.)
- Post-Graduation Program in Cell and Molecular Biology, Federal University of Rio Grande do Sul, Avenida Bento Gonçalves, 9500, Porto Alegre 91501-970, Brazil
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50
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Abstract
The DNA damage response (DDR) fulfils essential roles to preserve genome integrity. Targeting the DDR in tumors has had remarkable success over the last decade, exemplified by the licensing of PARP inhibitors for cancer therapy. Recent studies suggest that the application of DDR inhibitors impacts on cellular innate and adaptive immune responses, wherein key DNA repair factors have roles in limiting chronic inflammatory signaling. Antitumor immunity plays an emerging part in cancer therapy, and extensive efforts have led to the development of immune checkpoint inhibitors overcoming immune suppressive signals in tumors. Here, we review the current understanding of the molecular mechanisms underlying DNA damage-triggered immune responses, including cytosolic DNA sensing via the cGAS/STING pathway. We highlight the implications of DDR components for therapeutic outcomes of immune checkpoint inhibitors or their use as biomarkers. Finally, we discuss the rationale for novel combinations of DDR inhibitors with antagonists of immune checkpoints and current hindrances limiting their broader therapeutic applications.
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Affiliation(s)
- Domenic Pilger
- Wellcome Trust/Cancer Research UK Gurdon Institute, Department of Biochemistry, University of Cambridge, Cambridge CB2 1QN, United Kingdom
| | - Leonard W Seymour
- Department of Oncology, University of Oxford, Oxford, Oxford OX3 7DQ, United Kingdom
| | - Stephen P Jackson
- Wellcome Trust/Cancer Research UK Gurdon Institute, Department of Biochemistry, University of Cambridge, Cambridge CB2 1QN, United Kingdom
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