1
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Hossain MA. Targeting the RAS upstream and downstream signaling pathway for cancer treatment. Eur J Pharmacol 2024; 979:176727. [PMID: 38866361 DOI: 10.1016/j.ejphar.2024.176727] [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: 03/08/2024] [Revised: 06/05/2024] [Accepted: 06/06/2024] [Indexed: 06/14/2024]
Abstract
Cancer often involves the overactivation of RAS/RAF/MEK/ERK (MAPK) and PI3K-Akt-mTOR pathways due to mutations in genes like RAS, RAF, PTEN, and PIK3CA. Various strategies are employed to address the overactivation of these pathways, among which targeted therapy emerges as a promising approach. Directly targeting specific proteins, leads to encouraging results in cancer treatment. For instance, RTK inhibitors such as imatinib and afatinib selectively target these receptors, hindering ligand binding and reducing signaling initiation. These inhibitors have shown potent efficacy against Non-Small Cell Lung Cancer. Other inhibitors, like lonafarnib targeting Farnesyltransferase and GGTI 2418 targeting geranylgeranyl Transferase, disrupt post-translational modifications of proteins. Additionally, inhibition of proteins like SOS, SH2 domain, and Ras demonstrate promising anti-tumor activity both in vivo and in vitro. Targeting downstream components with RAF inhibitors such as vemurafenib, dabrafenib, and sorafenib, along with MEK inhibitors like trametinib and binimetinib, has shown promising outcomes in treating cancers with BRAF-V600E mutations, including myeloma, colorectal, and thyroid cancers. Furthermore, inhibitors of PI3K (e.g., apitolisib, copanlisib), AKT (e.g., ipatasertib, perifosine), and mTOR (e.g., sirolimus, temsirolimus) exhibit promising efficacy against various cancers such as Invasive Breast Cancer, Lymphoma, Neoplasms, and Hematological malignancies. This review offers an overview of small molecule inhibitors targeting specific proteins within the RAS upstream and downstream signaling pathways in cancer.
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Affiliation(s)
- Md Arafat Hossain
- Department of Pharmacy, Bangabandhu Sheikh Mujibur Rahman Science and Technology University, Gopalganj, 8100, Bangladesh.
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2
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Gerstberger T, Berger H, Büttner FH, Gmachl M, Kessler D, Koegl M, Lucas S, Martin LJ, Mayer M, McConnell DB, Mitzner S, Scholz G, Treu M, Wolkerstorfer B, Zahn S, Zak KM, Jaeger PA, Ettmayer P. Chasing Red Herrings: Palladium Metal Salt Impurities Feigning KRAS Activity in Biochemical Assays. J Med Chem 2024; 67:11701-11711. [PMID: 39009041 DOI: 10.1021/acs.jmedchem.3c02381] [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: 07/17/2024]
Abstract
Identifying promising chemical starting points for small molecule inhibitors of active, GTP-loaded KRAS "on" remains of great importance to clinical oncology and represents a significant challenge in medicinal chemistry. Here, we describe broadly applicable learnings from a KRAS hit finding campaign: While we initially identified KRAS inhibitors in a biochemical high-throughput screen, we later discovered that compound potencies were all but assay artifacts linked to metal salts interfering with KRAS AlphaScreen assay technology. The source of the apparent biochemical KRAS inhibition was ultimately traced to unavoidable palladium impurities from chemical synthesis. This discovery led to the development of a Metal Ion Interference Set (MIIS) for up-front assay development and testing. Profiling of the MIIS across 74 assays revealed a reduced interference liability of label-free biophysical assays and, as a result, provided general estimates for luminescence- and fluorescence-based assay susceptibility to metal salt interference.
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Affiliation(s)
- Thomas Gerstberger
- Boehringer Ingelheim RCV GmbH & Co. KG, Dr. Boehringer Gasse 5-11, A-1121 Vienna, Austria
| | - Helmut Berger
- Boehringer Ingelheim RCV GmbH & Co. KG, Dr. Boehringer Gasse 5-11, A-1121 Vienna, Austria
| | - Frank H Büttner
- Boehringer Ingelheim Pharma GmbH & Co. KG, Birkendorfer Str. 65, D-88397 Biberach, Germany
| | - Michael Gmachl
- Boehringer Ingelheim RCV GmbH & Co. KG, Dr. Boehringer Gasse 5-11, A-1121 Vienna, Austria
| | - Dirk Kessler
- Boehringer Ingelheim RCV GmbH & Co. KG, Dr. Boehringer Gasse 5-11, A-1121 Vienna, Austria
| | - Manfred Koegl
- Boehringer Ingelheim RCV GmbH & Co. KG, Dr. Boehringer Gasse 5-11, A-1121 Vienna, Austria
| | - Simon Lucas
- Boehringer Ingelheim RCV GmbH & Co. KG, Dr. Boehringer Gasse 5-11, A-1121 Vienna, Austria
| | - Laetitia J Martin
- Boehringer Ingelheim RCV GmbH & Co. KG, Dr. Boehringer Gasse 5-11, A-1121 Vienna, Austria
| | - Moriz Mayer
- Boehringer Ingelheim RCV GmbH & Co. KG, Dr. Boehringer Gasse 5-11, A-1121 Vienna, Austria
| | - Darryl B McConnell
- Boehringer Ingelheim RCV GmbH & Co. KG, Dr. Boehringer Gasse 5-11, A-1121 Vienna, Austria
| | - Sophie Mitzner
- Boehringer Ingelheim RCV GmbH & Co. KG, Dr. Boehringer Gasse 5-11, A-1121 Vienna, Austria
| | - Guido Scholz
- Boehringer Ingelheim RCV GmbH & Co. KG, Dr. Boehringer Gasse 5-11, A-1121 Vienna, Austria
| | - Matthias Treu
- Boehringer Ingelheim RCV GmbH & Co. KG, Dr. Boehringer Gasse 5-11, A-1121 Vienna, Austria
| | - Bernhard Wolkerstorfer
- Boehringer Ingelheim RCV GmbH & Co. KG, Dr. Boehringer Gasse 5-11, A-1121 Vienna, Austria
| | - Stephan Zahn
- Boehringer Ingelheim RCV GmbH & Co. KG, Dr. Boehringer Gasse 5-11, A-1121 Vienna, Austria
| | - Krzysztof M Zak
- Boehringer Ingelheim RCV GmbH & Co. KG, Dr. Boehringer Gasse 5-11, A-1121 Vienna, Austria
| | - Philipp A Jaeger
- Boehringer Ingelheim RCV GmbH & Co. KG, Dr. Boehringer Gasse 5-11, A-1121 Vienna, Austria
| | - Peter Ettmayer
- Boehringer Ingelheim RCV GmbH & Co. KG, Dr. Boehringer Gasse 5-11, A-1121 Vienna, Austria
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3
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Li D, Xie Q, Yang M, Cai Y, Sun K, Jiang S, Yu S, Liu L, Zhang Y, Yu B, Tu W, Li L. Lead Identification of Novel Naphthyridine Derivatives as Potent SOS1 Inhibitors. ACS Med Chem Lett 2024; 15:958-964. [PMID: 38894918 PMCID: PMC11181497 DOI: 10.1021/acsmedchemlett.4c00156] [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: 04/08/2024] [Revised: 05/21/2024] [Accepted: 05/22/2024] [Indexed: 06/21/2024] Open
Abstract
SOS1, a guanine nucleotide exchange factor (GEF), plays a critical role in catalyzing the conversion of KRAS from its GDP- to GTP-bound form, regardless of KRAS mutation status, and represents a promising new drug target to treat all KRAS-driven tumors. Herein, we employed a scaffold hopping strategy to design, synthesize, and optimize a series of novel binary ring derivatives as SOS1 inhibitors. Among them, compound 10f (HH0043) displayed potent activities in both biochemical and cellular assays and favorable pharmacokinetic profiles. Oral administration of HH0043 resulted in a significant tumor inhibitory effect in a subcutaneous KRAS G12C-mutated NCI-H358 (human lung cancer cell line) xenograft mouse model, and the tumor inhibitory effect of HH0043 was superior to that of BI-3406 at the same dose (total growth inhibition, TGI: 76% vs 49%). On the basis of these results, HH0043, with a novel 1,7-naphthyridine scaffold that is distinct from currently reported SOS1 inhibitors, is nominated as the lead compound for this discovery project.
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Affiliation(s)
- Dongsheng Li
- Discovery & Early Development, Haihe Biopharma Co., Ltd., No 865# Zuchongzhi Road Zhangjiang Science City, Shanghai 201203, China
| | - Qing Xie
- Discovery & Early Development, Haihe Biopharma Co., Ltd., No 865# Zuchongzhi Road Zhangjiang Science City, Shanghai 201203, China
| | - Maozhi Yang
- Discovery & Early Development, Haihe Biopharma Co., Ltd., No 865# Zuchongzhi Road Zhangjiang Science City, Shanghai 201203, China
| | - Yalei Cai
- Discovery & Early Development, Haihe Biopharma Co., Ltd., No 865# Zuchongzhi Road Zhangjiang Science City, Shanghai 201203, China
| | - Kang Sun
- Discovery & Early Development, Haihe Biopharma Co., Ltd., No 865# Zuchongzhi Road Zhangjiang Science City, Shanghai 201203, China
| | - Shujuan Jiang
- Discovery & Early Development, Haihe Biopharma Co., Ltd., No 865# Zuchongzhi Road Zhangjiang Science City, Shanghai 201203, China
| | - Songda Yu
- Discovery & Early Development, Haihe Biopharma Co., Ltd., No 865# Zuchongzhi Road Zhangjiang Science City, Shanghai 201203, China
| | - Lei Liu
- Discovery & Early Development, Haihe Biopharma Co., Ltd., No 865# Zuchongzhi Road Zhangjiang Science City, Shanghai 201203, China
| | - Yixiang Zhang
- Discovery & Early Development, Haihe Biopharma Co., Ltd., No 865# Zuchongzhi Road Zhangjiang Science City, Shanghai 201203, China
| | - Bing Yu
- Discovery & Early Development, Haihe Biopharma Co., Ltd., No 865# Zuchongzhi Road Zhangjiang Science City, Shanghai 201203, China
| | - Wangyang Tu
- Discovery & Early Development, Haihe Biopharma Co., Ltd., No 865# Zuchongzhi Road Zhangjiang Science City, Shanghai 201203, China
| | - Leping Li
- Discovery & Early Development, Haihe Biopharma Co., Ltd., No 865# Zuchongzhi Road Zhangjiang Science City, Shanghai 201203, China
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4
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Duo L, Chen Y, Liu Q, Ma Z, Farjudian A, Ho WY, Low SS, Ren J, Hirst JD, Xie H, Tang B. Discovery of novel SOS1 inhibitors using machine learning. RSC Med Chem 2024; 15:1392-1403. [PMID: 38665844 PMCID: PMC11042245 DOI: 10.1039/d4md00063c] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/23/2024] [Accepted: 03/14/2024] [Indexed: 04/28/2024] Open
Abstract
Overactivation of the rat sarcoma virus (RAS) signaling is responsible for 30% of all human malignancies. Son of sevenless 1 (SOS1), a crucial node in the RAS signaling pathway, could modulate RAS activation, offering a promising therapeutic strategy for RAS-driven cancers. Applying machine learning (ML)-based virtual screening (VS) on small-molecule databases, we selected a random forest (RF) regressor for its robustness and performance. Screening was performed with the L-series and EGFR-related datasets, and was extended to the Chinese National Compound Library (CNCL) with more than 1.4 million compounds. In addition to a series of documented SOS1-related molecules, we uncovered nine compounds that have an unexplored chemical framework and displayed inhibitory activity, with the most potent achieving more than 50% inhibition rate in the KRAS G12C/SOS1 PPI assay and an IC50 value in the proximity of 20 μg mL-1. Compared with the manner that known inhibitory agents bind to the target, hit compounds represented by CL01545365 occupy a unique pocket in molecular docking. An in silico drug-likeness assessment suggested that the compound has moderately favorable drug-like properties and pharmacokinetic characteristics. Altogether, our findings strongly support that, characterized by the distinctive binding modes, the recognition of novel skeletons from the carboxylic acid series could be candidates for developing promising SOS1 inhibitors.
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Affiliation(s)
- Lihui Duo
- Nottingham Ningbo China Beacons of Excellence Research and Innovation Institute, Key Laboratory for Carbonaceous Waste Processing and Process Intensification Research of Zhejiang Province, Department of Chemical and Environmental Engineering, The University of Nottingham Ningbo China 199 Taikang East Road Ningbo 315100 P. R. China
| | - Yi Chen
- Division of Antitumor Pharmacology, State Key Laboratory of Drug Research, Shanghai Institute of Materia Medica, Chinese Academy of Sciences 555 Zuchongzhi Road 201203 Shanghai China
- University of Chinese Academy of Sciences No.19A Yuquan Road Beijing 100049 China
| | - Qiupei Liu
- Nottingham Ningbo China Beacons of Excellence Research and Innovation Institute, Key Laboratory for Carbonaceous Waste Processing and Process Intensification Research of Zhejiang Province, Department of Chemical and Environmental Engineering, The University of Nottingham Ningbo China 199 Taikang East Road Ningbo 315100 P. R. China
- Division of Antitumor Pharmacology, State Key Laboratory of Drug Research, Shanghai Institute of Materia Medica, Chinese Academy of Sciences 555 Zuchongzhi Road 201203 Shanghai China
| | - Zhangyi Ma
- Nottingham Ningbo China Beacons of Excellence Research and Innovation Institute, Key Laboratory for Carbonaceous Waste Processing and Process Intensification Research of Zhejiang Province, Department of Chemical and Environmental Engineering, The University of Nottingham Ningbo China 199 Taikang East Road Ningbo 315100 P. R. China
| | - Amin Farjudian
- School of Mathematics, Watson Building, University of Birmingham Edgbaston Birmingham B15 2TT UK
| | - Wan Yong Ho
- Faculty of Medicine and Health Sciences, University of Nottingham (Malaysia Campus) Semenyih 43500 Malaysia
| | - Sze Shin Low
- Nottingham Ningbo China Beacons of Excellence Research and Innovation Institute, Key Laboratory for Carbonaceous Waste Processing and Process Intensification Research of Zhejiang Province, Department of Chemical and Environmental Engineering, The University of Nottingham Ningbo China 199 Taikang East Road Ningbo 315100 P. R. China
| | - Jianfeng Ren
- Nottingham Ningbo China Beacons of Excellence Research and Innovation Institute, Key Laboratory for Carbonaceous Waste Processing and Process Intensification Research of Zhejiang Province, Department of Chemical and Environmental Engineering, The University of Nottingham Ningbo China 199 Taikang East Road Ningbo 315100 P. R. China
| | - Jonathan D Hirst
- School of Chemistry, University of Nottingham University Park Nottingham NG7 2RD UK
| | - Hua Xie
- Division of Antitumor Pharmacology, State Key Laboratory of Drug Research, Shanghai Institute of Materia Medica, Chinese Academy of Sciences 555 Zuchongzhi Road 201203 Shanghai China
- University of Chinese Academy of Sciences No.19A Yuquan Road Beijing 100049 China
- Zhongshan Institute for Drug Discovery, Shanghai Institute of Materia Medica, Chinese Academy of Sciences Zhongshan Tsuihang New District Zhongshan 528400 China
| | - Bencan Tang
- Nottingham Ningbo China Beacons of Excellence Research and Innovation Institute, Key Laboratory for Carbonaceous Waste Processing and Process Intensification Research of Zhejiang Province, Department of Chemical and Environmental Engineering, The University of Nottingham Ningbo China 199 Taikang East Road Ningbo 315100 P. R. China
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5
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Liu Z, Remsberg JR, Li H, Njomen E, DeMeester KE, Tao Y, Xia G, Hayward RE, Yoo M, Nguyen T, Simon GM, Schreiber SL, Melillo B, Cravatt BF. Proteomic Ligandability Maps of Spirocycle Acrylamide Stereoprobes Identify Covalent ERCC3 Degraders. J Am Chem Soc 2024; 146:10393-10406. [PMID: 38569115 PMCID: PMC11211653 DOI: 10.1021/jacs.3c13448] [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] [Indexed: 04/05/2024]
Abstract
Covalent chemistry coupled with activity-based protein profiling (ABPP) offers a versatile way to discover ligands for proteins in native biological systems. Here, we describe a set of stereo- and regiochemically defined spirocycle acrylamides and the analysis of these electrophilic "stereoprobes" in human cancer cells by cysteine-directed ABPP. Despite showing attenuated reactivity compared to structurally related azetidine acrylamide stereoprobes, the spirocycle acrylamides preferentially liganded specific cysteines on diverse protein classes. One compound termed ZL-12A promoted the degradation of the TFIIH helicase ERCC3. Interestingly, ZL-12A reacts with the same cysteine (C342) in ERCC3 as the natural product triptolide, which did not lead to ERCC3 degradation but instead causes collateral loss of RNA polymerases. ZL-12A and triptolide cross-antagonized one another's protein degradation profiles. Finally, we provide evidence that the antihypertension drug spironolactone─previously found to promote ERCC3 degradation through an enigmatic mechanism─also reacts with ERCC3_C342. Our findings thus describe monofunctional degraders of ERCC3 and highlight how covalent ligands targeting the same cysteine can produce strikingly different functional outcomes.
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Affiliation(s)
- Zhonglin Liu
- Department of Chemistry, Scripps Research, La Jolla, CA 92037, USA
| | | | - Haoxin Li
- Department of Chemistry, Scripps Research, La Jolla, CA 92037, USA
| | - Evert Njomen
- Department of Chemistry, Scripps Research, La Jolla, CA 92037, USA
| | | | - Yongfeng Tao
- Department of Chemistry, Scripps Research, La Jolla, CA 92037, USA
| | - Guoqin Xia
- Department of Chemistry, Scripps Research, La Jolla, CA 92037, USA
| | | | - Minjin Yoo
- Department of Chemistry, Scripps Research, La Jolla, CA 92037, USA
| | | | | | - Stuart L. Schreiber
- Chemical Biology and Therapeutics Science Program, Broad Institute, Cambridge, MA 02142, USA
- Department of Chemistry and Chemical Biology, Harvard University, Cambridge, MA 02138, USA
| | - Bruno Melillo
- Department of Chemistry, Scripps Research, La Jolla, CA 92037, USA
- Chemical Biology and Therapeutics Science Program, Broad Institute, Cambridge, MA 02142, USA
| | - Benjamin F. Cravatt
- Department of Chemistry, Scripps Research, La Jolla, CA 92037, USA
- Vividion Therapeutics, San Diego, CA 92121, USA
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6
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Begovich K, Schoolmeesters A, Rajapakse N, Martinez-Terroba E, Kumar M, Shakya A, Lai C, Greene S, Whitefield B, Okano A, Mali V, Huang S, Chourasia AH, Fung L. Cereblon-based Bifunctional Degrader of SOS1, BTX-6654, Targets Multiple KRAS Mutations and Inhibits Tumor Growth. Mol Cancer Ther 2024; 23:407-420. [PMID: 38224565 DOI: 10.1158/1535-7163.mct-23-0513] [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: 08/07/2023] [Revised: 10/12/2023] [Accepted: 01/11/2024] [Indexed: 01/17/2024]
Abstract
Mutations within the oncogene KRAS drive an estimated 25% of all cancers. Only allele-specific KRAS G12C inhibitors are currently available and are associated with the emergence of acquired resistance, partly due to upstream pathway reactivation. Given its upstream role in the activation of KRAS, son of sevenless homolog 1 (SOS1), has emerged as an attractive therapeutic target. Agents that target SOS1 for degradation could represent a potential pan-KRAS modality that may be capable of circumventing certain acquired resistance mechanisms. Here, we report the development of two SOS1 cereblon-based bifunctional degraders, BTX-6654 and BTX-7312, cereblon-based bifunctional SOS1 degraders. Both compounds exhibited potent target-dependent and -specific SOS1 degradation. BTX-6654 and BTX-7312 reduced downstream signaling markers, pERK and pS6, and displayed antiproliferative activity in cells harboring various KRAS mutations. In two KRAS G12C xenograft models, BTX-6654 degraded SOS1 in a dose-dependent manner correlating with tumor growth inhibition, additionally exhibiting synergy with KRAS and MEK inhibitors. Altogether, BTX-6654 provided preclinical proof of concept for single-agent and combination use of bifunctional SOS1 degraders in KRAS-driven cancers.
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Affiliation(s)
| | | | | | | | | | | | - Chon Lai
- BioTheryx, Inc., San Diego, California
| | | | | | | | | | | | | | - Leah Fung
- BioTheryx, Inc., San Diego, California
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7
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Chen Y, Liu QP, Xie H, Ding J. From bench to bedside: current development and emerging trend of KRAS-targeted therapy. Acta Pharmacol Sin 2024; 45:686-703. [PMID: 38049578 PMCID: PMC10943119 DOI: 10.1038/s41401-023-01194-4] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/23/2023] [Accepted: 11/09/2023] [Indexed: 12/06/2023] Open
Abstract
Kirsten rat sarcoma 2 viral oncogene homolog (KRAS) is the most frequently mutated oncogene in human cancers with mutations predominantly occurring in codon 12. These mutations disrupt the normal function of KRAS by interfering with GTP hydrolysis and nucleotide exchange activity, making it prone to the GTP-bound active state, thus leading to sustained activation of downstream pathways. Despite decades of research, there has been no progress in the KRAS drug discovery until the groundbreaking discovery of covalently targeting the KRASG12C mutation in 2013, which led to revolutionary changes in KRAS-targeted therapy. So far, two small molecule inhibitors sotorasib and adagrasib targeting KRASG12C have received accelerated approval for the treatment of non-small cell lung cancer (NSCLC) harboring KRASG12C mutations. In recent years, rapid progress has been achieved in the KRAS-targeted therapy field, especially the exploration of KRASG12C covalent inhibitors in other KRASG12C-positive malignancies, novel KRAS inhibitors beyond KRASG12C mutation or pan-KRAS inhibitors, and approaches to indirectly targeting KRAS. In this review, we provide a comprehensive overview of the molecular and mutational characteristics of KRAS and summarize the development and current status of covalent inhibitors targeting the KRASG12C mutation. We also discuss emerging promising KRAS-targeted therapeutic strategies, with a focus on mutation-specific and direct pan-KRAS inhibitors and indirect KRAS inhibitors through targeting the RAS activation-associated proteins Src homology-2 domain-containing phosphatase 2 (SHP2) and son of sevenless homolog 1 (SOS1), and shed light on current challenges and opportunities for drug discovery in this field.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yi Chen
- Division of Antitumor Pharmacology, State Key Laboratory of Drug Research, Shanghai Institute of Materia Medica, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Shanghai, 201203, China
- University of Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing, 100049, China
| | - Qiu-Pei Liu
- Division of Antitumor Pharmacology, State Key Laboratory of Drug Research, Shanghai Institute of Materia Medica, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Shanghai, 201203, China
- Department of Chemical and Environment Engineering, Science and Engineering Building, The University of Nottingham Ningbo China, Ningbo, 315100, China
| | - Hua Xie
- Division of Antitumor Pharmacology, State Key Laboratory of Drug Research, Shanghai Institute of Materia Medica, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Shanghai, 201203, China.
- University of Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing, 100049, China.
- Zhongshan Institute for Drug Discovery, Shanghai Institute of Materia Medica, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Zhongshan, 528400, China.
| | - Jian Ding
- Division of Antitumor Pharmacology, State Key Laboratory of Drug Research, Shanghai Institute of Materia Medica, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Shanghai, 201203, China.
- University of Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing, 100049, China.
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8
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Wu J, Li X, Wu C, Wang Y, Zhang J. Current advances and development strategies of targeting son of sevenless 1 (SOS1) in drug discovery. Eur J Med Chem 2024; 268:116282. [PMID: 38430853 DOI: 10.1016/j.ejmech.2024.116282] [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: 01/19/2024] [Revised: 02/20/2024] [Accepted: 02/23/2024] [Indexed: 03/05/2024]
Abstract
The Son of Sevenless 1 (SOS1) guanine nucleotide exchange factor, prevalent across eukaryotic species, plays a pivotal role in facilitating the attachment of RAS protein to GTP, thereby regulating the activation of intracellular RAS proteins. This regulation is part of a feedback mechanism involving SOS1, which allows both activators and inhibitors of SOS1 to exert control over downstream signaling pathways, demonstrating potential anti-tumor effects. Predominantly, small molecule modulators that target SOS1 focus on a hydrophobic pocket within the CDC25 protein domain. The effectiveness of these modulators largely depends on their ability to interact with specific amino acids, notably Phe890 and Tyr884. This interaction is crucial for influencing the protein-protein interaction (PPI) between RAS and the catalytic domain of SOS1. Currently, most small molecule modulators targeting SOS1 are in the preclinical research phase, with a few advancing to clinical trials. This progression raises safety concerns, making the assurance of drug safety a primary consideration alongside the enhancement of efficacy in the development of SOS1 modulators. This review encapsulates recent advancements in the chemical categorization of SOS1 inhibitors and activators. It delves into the evolution of small molecule modulation targeting SOS1 and offers perspectives on the design of future generations of selective SOS1 small molecule modulators.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jialin Wu
- Department of Neurology, Neuro-system and Multimorbidity Laboratory and National Clinical Research Center for Geriatrics, West China Hospital, Sichuan University, Chengdu, 610041, Sichuan, China; Department of Pulmonary and Critical Care Medicine, Targeted Tracer Research and Development Laboratory, Institute of Respiratory Health, Frontiers Science Center for Disease-related Molecular Network, Precision Medicine Key Laboratory of Sichuan Province & Precision Medicine Research Center, West China Hospital, Sichuan University, Chengdu, 610041, Sichuan, China
| | - Xiaoxue Li
- Department of Dermatology, West China Hospital, Sichuan University, Chengdu, 610041, Sichuan, China
| | - Chengyong Wu
- Department of Neurology, Neuro-system and Multimorbidity Laboratory and National Clinical Research Center for Geriatrics, West China Hospital, Sichuan University, Chengdu, 610041, Sichuan, China; Department of Pulmonary and Critical Care Medicine, Targeted Tracer Research and Development Laboratory, Institute of Respiratory Health, Frontiers Science Center for Disease-related Molecular Network, Precision Medicine Key Laboratory of Sichuan Province & Precision Medicine Research Center, West China Hospital, Sichuan University, Chengdu, 610041, Sichuan, China
| | - Yuxi Wang
- Department of Pulmonary and Critical Care Medicine, Targeted Tracer Research and Development Laboratory, Institute of Respiratory Health, Frontiers Science Center for Disease-related Molecular Network, Precision Medicine Key Laboratory of Sichuan Province & Precision Medicine Research Center, West China Hospital, Sichuan University, Chengdu, 610041, Sichuan, China.
| | - Jifa Zhang
- Department of Neurology, Neuro-system and Multimorbidity Laboratory and National Clinical Research Center for Geriatrics, West China Hospital, Sichuan University, Chengdu, 610041, Sichuan, China.
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9
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Theard PL, Linke AJ, Sealover NE, Daley BR, Yang J, Cox K, Kortum RL. SOS2 modulates the threshold of EGFR signaling to regulate osimertinib efficacy and resistance in lung adenocarcinoma. Mol Oncol 2024; 18:641-661. [PMID: 38073064 PMCID: PMC10920089 DOI: 10.1002/1878-0261.13564] [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: 08/09/2023] [Revised: 10/23/2023] [Accepted: 12/08/2023] [Indexed: 01/02/2024] Open
Abstract
Son of sevenless 1 and 2 (SOS1 and SOS2) are RAS guanine nucleotide exchange factors (RasGEFs) that mediate physiologic and pathologic receptor tyrosine kinase (RTK)-dependent RAS activation. Here, we show that SOS2 modulates the threshold of epidermal growth factor receptor (EGFR) signaling to regulate the efficacy of and resistance to the EGFR tyrosine kinase inhibitor (EGFR-TKI) osimertinib in lung adenocarcinoma (LUAD). SOS2 deletion (SOS2KO ) sensitized EGFR-mutated cells to perturbations in EGFR signaling caused by reduced serum and/or osimertinib treatment to inhibit phosphatidylinositol 3-kinase (PI3K)/AKT pathway activation, oncogenic transformation, and survival. Bypassing RTK reactivation of PI3K/AKT signaling represents a common resistance mechanism to EGFR-TKIs; SOS2KO reduced PI3K/AKT reactivation to limit osimertinib resistance. In a forced HGF/MET-driven bypass model, SOS2KO inhibited hepatocyte growth factor (HGF)-stimulated PI3K signaling to block HGF-driven osimertinib resistance. Using a long-term in situ resistance assay, most osimertinib-resistant cultures exhibited a hybrid epithelial/mesenchymal phenotype associated with reactivated RTK/AKT signaling. In contrast, RTK/AKT-dependent osimertinib resistance was markedly reduced by SOS2 deletion; the few SOS2KO cultures that became osimertinib resistant primarily underwent non-RTK-dependent epithelial-mesenchymal transition (EMT). Since bypassing RTK reactivation and/or tertiary EGFR mutations represent most osimertinib-resistant cancers, these data suggest that targeting proximal RTK signaling, here exemplified by SOS2 deletion, has the potential to delay the development osimertinib resistance and enhance overall clinical responses for patients with EGFR-mutated LUAD.
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Affiliation(s)
- Patricia L. Theard
- Department of Pharmacology and Molecular TherapeuticsUniformed Services University of the Health SciencesBethesdaMDUSA
| | - Amanda J. Linke
- Department of Pharmacology and Molecular TherapeuticsUniformed Services University of the Health SciencesBethesdaMDUSA
| | - Nancy E. Sealover
- Department of Pharmacology and Molecular TherapeuticsUniformed Services University of the Health SciencesBethesdaMDUSA
| | - Brianna R. Daley
- Department of Pharmacology and Molecular TherapeuticsUniformed Services University of the Health SciencesBethesdaMDUSA
| | - Johnny Yang
- Department of Pharmacology and Molecular TherapeuticsUniformed Services University of the Health SciencesBethesdaMDUSA
| | - Katherine Cox
- Department of Pharmacology and Molecular TherapeuticsUniformed Services University of the Health SciencesBethesdaMDUSA
| | - Robert L. Kortum
- Department of Pharmacology and Molecular TherapeuticsUniformed Services University of the Health SciencesBethesdaMDUSA
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10
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Shang Y, Fu S, Hao Q, Ying H, Wang J, Shen T. Multiple medicinal chemistry strategies of targeting KRAS: State-of-the art and future directions. Bioorg Chem 2024; 144:107092. [PMID: 38271825 DOI: 10.1016/j.bioorg.2023.107092] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/28/2023] [Revised: 12/28/2023] [Accepted: 12/31/2023] [Indexed: 01/27/2024]
Abstract
KRAS is the most frequently mutated oncogene and drives the development and progression of malignancies, most notably non-small cell lung cancer (NSCLS), pancreatic ductal adenocarcinoma (PDAC) and colorectal cancer (CRC). However, KRAS proteins have maintained the reputation of being "undruggable" due to the lack of suitable deep pockets on its surface. One major milestone for KRAS inhibition was the discovery of the covalent inhibitors bond to the allosteric switch-II pocket of the KRASG12C protein. To date, the FDA has approved two KRASG12C inhibitors, sotorasib and adagrasib, for the treatment of patients with KRASG12C-driven cancers. Researchers have paid close attention to the development of inhibitors for other KRAS mutations and upstream regulatory factors. The KRAS targeted drug discovery has entered a state of rapid development. This article has aimed to present the current state of the art of drug development in the KRAS field. We systematically summarize recent advances in the discovery and optimization processes of direct KRAS inhibitors (including KRASG12C, KRASG12D, KRASG12A and KRASG12R inhibitors), indirect KRAS inhibitors (SOS1 and SHP2 inhibitors), pan-KRAS inhibitors, as well as proteolysis-targetingchimeras degrades and molecular chaperone modulators from the perspective of medicinal chemistry. We also discuss the current challenges and opportunities of KRAS inhibition and hope to shed light on future KRAS drug discovery.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yanguo Shang
- College of Biotechnology and Pharmaceutical Engineering, Nanjing Tech University, Nanjing, China
| | - Shengnan Fu
- Jiangsu Key Laboratory of Drug Design and Optimization, Department of Medicinal Chemistry, School of Pharmacy, China Pharmaceutical University, Nanjing, China
| | - Qingjing Hao
- Jiangsu Key Laboratory of Drug Design and Optimization, Department of Medicinal Chemistry, School of Pharmacy, China Pharmaceutical University, Nanjing, China
| | - Hanjie Ying
- College of Biotechnology and Pharmaceutical Engineering, Nanjing Tech University, Nanjing, China
| | - Jinxin Wang
- Jiangsu Key Laboratory of Drug Design and Optimization, Department of Medicinal Chemistry, School of Pharmacy, China Pharmaceutical University, Nanjing, China.
| | - Tao Shen
- College of Biotechnology and Pharmaceutical Engineering, Nanjing Tech University, Nanjing, China.
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11
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Lv Y, Yang Z, Chen Y, Ma X, Guo M, Zhang C, Jiang X, Wang C, Li Z, Tai Z, Wang X, Zhang S, Ma S, Qin C. A Potent SOS1 PROTAC Degrader with Synergistic Efficacy in Combination with KRAS G12C Inhibitor. J Med Chem 2024; 67:2487-2511. [PMID: 38316747 DOI: 10.1021/acs.jmedchem.3c01598] [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: 02/07/2024]
Abstract
AMG510, as the first approved inhibitor for KRASG12C mutation, has shown promising efficacy in nonsmall-cell lung cancer and colorectal cancer harboring KRASG12C mutation. However, the moderate response rate and the rapid emergence of acquired resistance limit the therapeutic potential of AMG510, highlighting the need for the development of combination strategies. Here, we observed the suppression of RAS-MAPK signaling induced by AMG510 was prolonged and enhanced by SOS1 knockdown. Thus, we design, synthesize, and characterize a potent and specific SOS1 degrader 23. Compound 23 showed efficient SOS1 degradation in KRAS-driven cancer cells and achieved significant antiproliferative potency. Importantly, the combination of 23 with AMG510 suppressed RAS signaling feedback activation, showing synergistic effects against KRASG12C mutant cells in vitro and in vivo. Our findings demonstrated that KRASG12C inhibition plus SOS1 degradation as a potential therapeutic strategy to improve antitumor response and overcome acquired resistance to KRASG12C inhibitor.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yan Lv
- Key Laboratory of Marine Drugs, Chinese Ministry of Education, School of Medicine and Pharmacy, Ocean University of China, Qingdao, Shandong 266003, China
| | - Zixuan Yang
- Key Laboratory of Marine Drugs, Chinese Ministry of Education, School of Medicine and Pharmacy, Ocean University of China, Qingdao, Shandong 266003, China
| | - Yiming Chen
- Key Laboratory of Marine Drugs, Chinese Ministry of Education, School of Medicine and Pharmacy, Ocean University of China, Qingdao, Shandong 266003, China
| | - Xuepei Ma
- Key Laboratory of Marine Drugs, Chinese Ministry of Education, School of Medicine and Pharmacy, Ocean University of China, Qingdao, Shandong 266003, China
| | - Mengqi Guo
- Center for Targeted Protein Degradation and Drug Discovery, Ocean University of China, Qingdao, Shandong 266003, China
| | - Chengwei Zhang
- Key Laboratory of Marine Drugs, Chinese Ministry of Education, School of Medicine and Pharmacy, Ocean University of China, Qingdao, Shandong 266003, China
| | - Xiaolin Jiang
- Key Laboratory of Marine Drugs, Chinese Ministry of Education, School of Medicine and Pharmacy, Ocean University of China, Qingdao, Shandong 266003, China
- Center for Targeted Protein Degradation and Drug Discovery, Ocean University of China, Qingdao, Shandong 266003, China
| | - Chengli Wang
- Center for Targeted Protein Degradation and Drug Discovery, Ocean University of China, Qingdao, Shandong 266003, China
| | - Zhuoyue Li
- Key Laboratory of Marine Drugs, Chinese Ministry of Education, School of Medicine and Pharmacy, Ocean University of China, Qingdao, Shandong 266003, China
- Center for Targeted Protein Degradation and Drug Discovery, Ocean University of China, Qingdao, Shandong 266003, China
| | - Zhengfu Tai
- Key Laboratory of Marine Drugs, Chinese Ministry of Education, School of Medicine and Pharmacy, Ocean University of China, Qingdao, Shandong 266003, China
- Center for Targeted Protein Degradation and Drug Discovery, Ocean University of China, Qingdao, Shandong 266003, China
| | - Xiao Wang
- Key Laboratory of Marine Drugs, Chinese Ministry of Education, School of Medicine and Pharmacy, Ocean University of China, Qingdao, Shandong 266003, China
- Center for Targeted Protein Degradation and Drug Discovery, Ocean University of China, Qingdao, Shandong 266003, China
| | - Siqi Zhang
- Key Laboratory of Marine Drugs, Chinese Ministry of Education, School of Medicine and Pharmacy, Ocean University of China, Qingdao, Shandong 266003, China
- Center for Targeted Protein Degradation and Drug Discovery, Ocean University of China, Qingdao, Shandong 266003, China
| | - Shumin Ma
- Key Laboratory of Marine Drugs, Chinese Ministry of Education, School of Medicine and Pharmacy, Ocean University of China, Qingdao, Shandong 266003, China
- Center for Targeted Protein Degradation and Drug Discovery, Ocean University of China, Qingdao, Shandong 266003, China
| | - Chong Qin
- Key Laboratory of Marine Drugs, Chinese Ministry of Education, School of Medicine and Pharmacy, Ocean University of China, Qingdao, Shandong 266003, China
- Center for Targeted Protein Degradation and Drug Discovery, Ocean University of China, Qingdao, Shandong 266003, China
- Laboratory for Marine Drugs and Bioproducts, Pilot National Laboratory for Marine Science and Technology, Qingdao, Shandong 266237, China
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12
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Pang X, Cui D, Lv B, Wang CY. Discovery of Potent SOS1 PROTACs with Effective Antitumor Activities against NCI-H358 Tumor Cells In Vitro/In Vivo. J Med Chem 2024; 67:1563-1579. [PMID: 38206836 DOI: 10.1021/acs.jmedchem.3c02135] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/13/2024]
Abstract
Directly targeted KRAS inhibitors are now facing resistance problems, which might be partially solved by the combination of SOS1 inhibitors with KRAS inhibitors. However, this combination may still have some resistance mitigation potential. Comparatively, SOS1 PROTAC may have promising applications in addressing the drug resistance problem by degrading the SOS1 protein. Herein, we report the discovery of novel SOS1 PROTACs and their antitumor activity both in vitro and in vivo. In vitro studies demonstrated that degrader 4 had strong inhibitory effects on the proliferation of NCI-H358 cells with IC50 of 5 nM, together with significant degradation of SOS1 protein with DC50 of 13 nM. In the NCI-H358 xenograft model, degrader 4 exhibited significant antitumor activities with TGITV values of 58.8% at 30 mg/kg bid. The PK and safety profiles also supported degrader 4 for further studies as an effective tool compound.
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Affiliation(s)
- Xudong Pang
- Key Laboratory for Advanced Materials and Institute of Fine Chemicals, School of Chemistry and Molecular Engineering, East China University of Science and Technology, Shanghai 200237, China
- Shanghai Zelgen Pharma-Tech Co., Ltd., Building 3, No. 999, Cailun Road, Zhangjiang Hi-Tech Park, Shanghai 201203, China
| | - Dawei Cui
- Shanghai Zelgen Pharma-Tech Co., Ltd., Building 3, No. 999, Cailun Road, Zhangjiang Hi-Tech Park, Shanghai 201203, China
| | - Binhua Lv
- Shanghai Zelgen Pharma-Tech Co., Ltd., Building 3, No. 999, Cailun Road, Zhangjiang Hi-Tech Park, Shanghai 201203, China
| | - Cheng-Yun Wang
- Key Laboratory for Advanced Materials and Institute of Fine Chemicals, School of Chemistry and Molecular Engineering, East China University of Science and Technology, Shanghai 200237, China
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13
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Zhang Y, Liu Z, Hirschi M, Brodsky O, Johnson E, Won SJ, Nagata A, Petroski MD, Majmudar JD, Niessen S, VanArsdale T, Gilbert AM, Hayward MM, Stewart AE, Nager AR, Melillo B, Cravatt B. Expanding the ligandable proteome by paralog hopping with covalent probes. BIORXIV : THE PREPRINT SERVER FOR BIOLOGY 2024:2024.01.18.576274. [PMID: 38293178 PMCID: PMC10827202 DOI: 10.1101/2024.01.18.576274] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 02/01/2024]
Abstract
More than half of the ~20,000 protein-encoding human genes have at least one paralog. Chemical proteomics has uncovered many electrophile-sensitive cysteines that are exclusive to a subset of paralogous proteins. Here, we explore whether such covalent compound-cysteine interactions can be used to discover ligandable pockets in paralogs that lack the cysteine. Leveraging the covalent ligandability of C109 in the cyclin CCNE2, we mutated the corresponding residue in paralog CCNE1 to cysteine (N112C) and found through activity-based protein profiling (ABPP) that this mutant reacts stereoselectively and site-specifically with tryptoline acrylamides. We then converted the tryptoline acrylamide-N112C-CCNE1 interaction into a NanoBRET-ABPP assay capable of identifying compounds that reversibly inhibit both N112C- and WT-CCNE1:CDK2 complexes. X-ray crystallography revealed a cryptic allosteric pocket at the CCNE1:CDK2 interface adjacent to N112 that binds the reversible inhibitors. Our findings thus provide a roadmap for leveraging electrophile-cysteine interactions to extend the ligandability of the proteome beyond covalent chemistry.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yuanjin Zhang
- Department of Chemistry, The Scripps Research Institute, La Jolla, CA 92037 USA
| | - Zhonglin Liu
- Department of Chemistry, The Scripps Research Institute, La Jolla, CA 92037 USA
| | - Marsha Hirschi
- Medicine Design, Pfizer Research and Development, Pfizer Inc., La Jolla, CA 92121, USA
| | - Oleg Brodsky
- Medicine Design, Pfizer Research and Development, Pfizer Inc., La Jolla, CA 92121, USA
| | - Eric Johnson
- Medicine Design, Pfizer Research and Development, Pfizer Inc., La Jolla, CA 92121, USA
| | - Sang Joon Won
- Department of Chemistry, The Scripps Research Institute, La Jolla, CA 92037 USA
| | - Asako Nagata
- Medicine Design, Pfizer Research and Development, Pfizer Inc., La Jolla, CA 92121, USA
| | | | - Jaimeen D Majmudar
- Discovery Sciences, Pfizer Research and Development, Pfizer Inc., Cambridge, MA 02139, USA
| | - Sherry Niessen
- Oncology Research and Development, Pfizer Inc., La Jolla, CA 92121, USA
- Current address: Belharra Therapeutics, 3985 Sorrento Valley Blvd suite c, San Diego, CA 92121
| | - Todd VanArsdale
- Oncology Research and Development, Pfizer Inc., La Jolla, CA 92121, USA
| | - Adam M Gilbert
- Discovery Sciences, Pfizer Research and Development, Pfizer Inc., Groton, CT 06340, USA
| | - Matthew M Hayward
- Discovery Sciences, Pfizer Research and Development, Pfizer Inc., Groton, CT 06340, USA
- Current address: Magnet Biomedicine, 321 Harrison Ave., Suite 600, Boston, MA 02118, USA
| | - Al E Stewart
- Medicine Design, Pfizer Research and Development, Pfizer Inc., La Jolla, CA 92121, USA
| | - Andrew R Nager
- Oncology Research and Development, Pfizer Inc., La Jolla, CA 92121, USA
| | - Bruno Melillo
- Department of Chemistry, The Scripps Research Institute, La Jolla, CA 92037 USA
| | - Benjamin Cravatt
- Department of Chemistry, The Scripps Research Institute, La Jolla, CA 92037 USA
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14
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Daley BR, Vieira HM, Rao C, Hughes JM, Beckley ZM, Huisman DH, Chatterjee D, Sealover NE, Cox K, Askew JW, Svoboda RA, Fisher KW, Lewis RE, Kortum RL. SOS1 and KSR1 modulate MEK inhibitor responsiveness to target resistant cell populations based on PI3K and KRAS mutation status. Proc Natl Acad Sci U S A 2023; 120:e2313137120. [PMID: 37972068 PMCID: PMC10666034 DOI: 10.1073/pnas.2313137120] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/31/2023] [Accepted: 09/20/2023] [Indexed: 11/19/2023] Open
Abstract
KRAS is the most commonly mutated oncogene. Targeted therapies have been developed against mediators of key downstream signaling pathways, predominantly components of the RAF/MEK/ERK kinase cascade. Unfortunately, single-agent efficacy of these agents is limited both by intrinsic and acquired resistance. Survival of drug-tolerant persister cells within the heterogeneous tumor population and/or acquired mutations that reactivate receptor tyrosine kinase (RTK)/RAS signaling can lead to outgrowth of tumor-initiating cells (TICs) and drive therapeutic resistance. Here, we show that targeting the key RTK/RAS pathway signaling intermediates SOS1 (Son of Sevenless 1) or KSR1 (Kinase Suppressor of RAS 1) both enhances the efficacy of, and prevents resistance to, the MEK inhibitor trametinib in KRAS-mutated lung (LUAD) and colorectal (COAD) adenocarcinoma cell lines depending on the specific mutational landscape. The SOS1 inhibitor BI-3406 enhanced the efficacy of trametinib and prevented trametinib resistance by targeting spheroid-initiating cells in KRASG12/G13-mutated LUAD and COAD cell lines that lacked PIK3CA comutations. Cell lines with KRASQ61 and/or PIK3CA mutations were insensitive to trametinib and BI-3406 combination therapy. In contrast, deletion of the RAF/MEK/ERK scaffold protein KSR1 prevented drug-induced SIC upregulation and restored trametinib sensitivity across all tested KRAS mutant cell lines in both PIK3CA-mutated and PIK3CA wild-type cancers. Our findings demonstrate that vertical inhibition of RTK/RAS signaling is an effective strategy to prevent therapeutic resistance in KRAS-mutated cancers, but therapeutic efficacy is dependent on both the specific KRAS mutant and underlying comutations. Thus, selection of optimal therapeutic combinations in KRAS-mutated cancers will require a detailed understanding of functional dependencies imposed by allele-specific KRAS mutations.
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Affiliation(s)
- Brianna R. Daley
- Department of Pharmacology and Molecular Therapeutics, Uniformed Services University of the Health Sciences, Bethesda, MD20814
| | - Heidi M. Vieira
- Eppley Institute for Research in Cancer and Allied Diseases, University of Nebraska Medical Center, Omaha, NE68198
| | - Chaitra Rao
- Eppley Institute for Research in Cancer and Allied Diseases, University of Nebraska Medical Center, Omaha, NE68198
| | - Jacob M. Hughes
- Department of Pharmacology and Molecular Therapeutics, Uniformed Services University of the Health Sciences, Bethesda, MD20814
| | - Zaria M. Beckley
- Department of Pharmacology and Molecular Therapeutics, Uniformed Services University of the Health Sciences, Bethesda, MD20814
| | - Dianna H. Huisman
- Eppley Institute for Research in Cancer and Allied Diseases, University of Nebraska Medical Center, Omaha, NE68198
| | - Deepan Chatterjee
- Department of Integrative Physiology and Molecular Medicine, University of Nebraska Medical Center, Omaha, NE68198
| | - Nancy E. Sealover
- Department of Pharmacology and Molecular Therapeutics, Uniformed Services University of the Health Sciences, Bethesda, MD20814
| | - Katherine Cox
- Department of Pharmacology and Molecular Therapeutics, Uniformed Services University of the Health Sciences, Bethesda, MD20814
| | - James W. Askew
- Eppley Institute for Research in Cancer and Allied Diseases, University of Nebraska Medical Center, Omaha, NE68198
| | - Robert A. Svoboda
- Department of Pathology and Microbiology, University of Nebraska Medical Center, Omaha, NE68198
| | - Kurt W. Fisher
- Department of Pathology and Microbiology, University of Nebraska Medical Center, Omaha, NE68198
| | - Robert E. Lewis
- Eppley Institute for Research in Cancer and Allied Diseases, University of Nebraska Medical Center, Omaha, NE68198
| | - Robert L. Kortum
- Department of Pharmacology and Molecular Therapeutics, Uniformed Services University of the Health Sciences, Bethesda, MD20814
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15
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Zhao D, Liu Y, Yi F, Zhao X, Lu K. Recent advances in the development of inhibitors targeting KRAS-G12C and its related pathways. Eur J Med Chem 2023; 259:115698. [PMID: 37542991 DOI: 10.1016/j.ejmech.2023.115698] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/25/2023] [Revised: 07/28/2023] [Accepted: 07/28/2023] [Indexed: 08/07/2023]
Abstract
The RAS gene, also known as the mouse sarcoma virus, includes three genes (KRAS, HRAS, and NRAS) that are associated with human tumors. Among them, KRAS has the highest incidence of mutations in cancer, accounting for around 80% of cases. At the molecular level, the RAS gene plays a regulatory role in transcription and translation, while at the cellular level, it affects cell proliferation and migration, making it crucial for cancer development. In 2021, the FDA approved AMG510, the first direct inhibitor targeting the KRAS-G12C mutation, which has shown tumor regression, prolonged survival, and low off-target activity. However, with the increase of drug resistance, a single inhibitor is no longer sufficient to achieve the desired effect on tumors. Therefore, a large number of other highly efficient inhibitors are being developed at different stages. This article provides an overview of the mechanism of action targeting KRAS-G12C in the KRASGTP-KRASGDP cycle pathway, as well as the structure-activity relationship, structure optimization, and biological activity effects of inhibitors that target the upstream and downstream pathways, or combination therapy.
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Affiliation(s)
- Dongqiang Zhao
- China International Science and Technology Cooperation Base of Food Nutrition/Safety and Medicinal Chemistry, College of Biotechnology, Tianjin University of Science & Technology, Tianjin, 300457, China
| | - Yu Liu
- China International Science and Technology Cooperation Base of Food Nutrition/Safety and Medicinal Chemistry, College of Biotechnology, Tianjin University of Science & Technology, Tianjin, 300457, China
| | - Fengchao Yi
- China International Science and Technology Cooperation Base of Food Nutrition/Safety and Medicinal Chemistry, College of Biotechnology, Tianjin University of Science & Technology, Tianjin, 300457, China
| | - Xia Zhao
- College of Chemistry, Tianjin Key Laboratory of Structure and Performance for Functional Molecules, Tianjin Normal University, Tianjin, 300387, China
| | - Kui Lu
- China International Science and Technology Cooperation Base of Food Nutrition/Safety and Medicinal Chemistry, College of Biotechnology, Tianjin University of Science & Technology, Tianjin, 300457, China.
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16
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Liu L, Song Z, Fan G, Lou L, Wang Y, Zhang X, Xiong XF. Discovery of novel indazole derivatives as SOS1 agonists that activate KRAS signaling. Bioorg Med Chem 2023; 93:117457. [PMID: 37688996 DOI: 10.1016/j.bmc.2023.117457] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/15/2023] [Revised: 08/11/2023] [Accepted: 08/21/2023] [Indexed: 09/11/2023]
Abstract
KRAS serves as a vital regulator for cellular signaling and drives tumor pathogenesis after mutation. Despite extensive research efforts spanning several decades, targeting KRAS is still challenging due to the multiple KRAS mutations and the emergence of drug resistance. Interfering the interactions between KRAS and SOS1 is one of the promising approaches for modulating KRAS functions. Herein, we discovered small-molecule SOS1 agonists with novel indazole scaffold. Through structure-based optimization, compound 11 was identified with high SOS1 activation potency (p-ERK EC50 = 1.53 μM). In HeLa cells, compound 11 enhances cellular RAS-GTP levels and exhibits biphasic modulation of ERK1/2 phosphorylation through an on-target mechanism and presents the therapeutic potential to modulate RAS signaling by activating SOS1.
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Affiliation(s)
- Lu Liu
- Guangdong Key Laboratory of Chiral Molecule and Drug Discovery, School of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Sun Yat-sen University, 510006 Guangzhou, Guangdong, PR China
| | - Zhendong Song
- Guangdong Key Laboratory of Chiral Molecule and Drug Discovery, School of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Sun Yat-sen University, 510006 Guangzhou, Guangdong, PR China
| | - Guangjin Fan
- Guangdong Key Laboratory of Chiral Molecule and Drug Discovery, School of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Sun Yat-sen University, 510006 Guangzhou, Guangdong, PR China
| | - Linlin Lou
- Guangdong Key Laboratory of Chiral Molecule and Drug Discovery, School of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Sun Yat-sen University, 510006 Guangzhou, Guangdong, PR China
| | - Yuanxiang Wang
- Guangdong Key Laboratory of Chiral Molecule and Drug Discovery, School of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Sun Yat-sen University, 510006 Guangzhou, Guangdong, PR China
| | - Xiaolei Zhang
- Guangdong Key Laboratory of Chiral Molecule and Drug Discovery, School of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Sun Yat-sen University, 510006 Guangzhou, Guangdong, PR China.
| | - Xiao-Feng Xiong
- Guangdong Key Laboratory of Chiral Molecule and Drug Discovery, School of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Sun Yat-sen University, 510006 Guangzhou, Guangdong, PR China.
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17
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Wu D, Li Y, Zheng L, Xiao H, Ouyang L, Wang G, Sun Q. Small molecules targeting protein-protein interactions for cancer therapy. Acta Pharm Sin B 2023; 13:4060-4088. [PMID: 37799384 PMCID: PMC10547922 DOI: 10.1016/j.apsb.2023.05.035] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/08/2023] [Revised: 04/28/2023] [Accepted: 05/22/2023] [Indexed: 10/07/2023] Open
Abstract
Protein-protein interactions (PPIs) are fundamental to many biological processes that play an important role in the occurrence and development of a variety of diseases. Targeting the interaction between tumour-related proteins with emerging small molecule drugs has become an attractive approach for treatment of human diseases, especially tumours. Encouragingly, selective PPI-based therapeutic agents have been rapidly advancing over the past decade, providing promising perspectives for novel therapies for patients with cancer. In this review we comprehensively clarify the discovery and development of small molecule modulators of PPIs from multiple aspects, focusing on PPIs in disease, drug design and discovery strategies, structure-activity relationships, inherent dilemmas, and future directions.
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Affiliation(s)
- Defa Wu
- Department of Biotherapy, Cancer Center and State Key Laboratory of Biotherapy, Innovation Center of Nursing Research, West China Hospital, Sichuan University /West China School of Nursing, Sichuan University, Chengdu 610041, China
| | - Yang Li
- Department of Biotherapy, Cancer Center and State Key Laboratory of Biotherapy, Innovation Center of Nursing Research, West China Hospital, Sichuan University /West China School of Nursing, Sichuan University, Chengdu 610041, China
| | - Lang Zheng
- Department of Biotherapy, Cancer Center and State Key Laboratory of Biotherapy, Innovation Center of Nursing Research, West China Hospital, Sichuan University /West China School of Nursing, Sichuan University, Chengdu 610041, China
| | - Huan Xiao
- Department of Biotherapy, Cancer Center and State Key Laboratory of Biotherapy, Innovation Center of Nursing Research, West China Hospital, Sichuan University /West China School of Nursing, Sichuan University, Chengdu 610041, China
| | - Liang Ouyang
- Department of Biotherapy, Cancer Center and State Key Laboratory of Biotherapy, Innovation Center of Nursing Research, West China Hospital, Sichuan University /West China School of Nursing, Sichuan University, Chengdu 610041, China
| | - Guan Wang
- Department of Biotherapy, Cancer Center and State Key Laboratory of Biotherapy, Innovation Center of Nursing Research, West China Hospital, Sichuan University /West China School of Nursing, Sichuan University, Chengdu 610041, China
| | - Qiu Sun
- Department of Biotherapy, Cancer Center and State Key Laboratory of Biotherapy, Innovation Center of Nursing Research, West China Hospital, Sichuan University /West China School of Nursing, Sichuan University, Chengdu 610041, China
- West China Medical Publishers, West China Hospital, Sichuan University, Chengdu 610041, China
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18
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Theard PL, Linke AJ, Sealover NE, Daley BR, Yang J, Cox K, Kortum RL. SOS2 regulates the threshold of mutant EGFR-dependent oncogenesis. BIORXIV : THE PREPRINT SERVER FOR BIOLOGY 2023:2023.01.20.524989. [PMID: 37425733 PMCID: PMC10327037 DOI: 10.1101/2023.01.20.524989] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 07/11/2023]
Abstract
Son of Sevenless 1 and 2 (SOS1 and SOS2) are RAS guanine nucleotide exchange factors (RasGEFs) that mediate physiologic and pathologic RTK-dependent RAS activation. Here, we show that SOS2 modulates the threshold of epidermal growth factor receptor (EGFR) signaling to regulate the efficacy of and resistance to the EGFR-TKI osimertinib in lung adenocarcinoma (LUAD). SOS2 deletion sensitized EGFR-mutated cells to perturbations in EGFR signaling caused by reduced serum and/or osimertinib treatment to inhibit PI3K/AKT pathway activation, oncogenic transformation, and survival. Bypass RTK reactivation of PI3K/AKT signaling represents a common resistance mechanism to EGFR-TKIs; SOS2 KO reduced PI3K/AKT reactivation to limit osimertinib resistance. In a forced HGF/MET-driven bypass model, SOS2 KO inhibited HGF-stimulated PI3K signaling to block HGF-driven osimertinib resistance. Using a long term in situ resistance assay, a majority of osimertinib resistant cultures exhibited a hybrid epithelial/mesenchymal phenotype associated with reactivated RTK/AKT signaling. In contrast, RTK/AKT-dependent osimertinib resistance was markedly reduced by SOS2 deletion; the few SOS2 KO cultures that became osimertinib resistant primarily underwent non-RTK dependent EMT. Since bypass RTK reactivation and/or tertiary EGFR mutations represent the majority of osimertinib-resistant cancers, these data suggest that targeting SOS2 has the potential to eliminate the majority of osimertinib resistance.
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Affiliation(s)
- Patricia L. Theard
- Department of Pharmacology and Molecular Therapeutics, Uniformed Services University of the Health Sciences, Bethesda, MD, USA 20814
| | - Amanda J. Linke
- Department of Pharmacology and Molecular Therapeutics, Uniformed Services University of the Health Sciences, Bethesda, MD, USA 20814
| | - Nancy E. Sealover
- Department of Pharmacology and Molecular Therapeutics, Uniformed Services University of the Health Sciences, Bethesda, MD, USA 20814
| | - Brianna R. Daley
- Department of Pharmacology and Molecular Therapeutics, Uniformed Services University of the Health Sciences, Bethesda, MD, USA 20814
| | - Johnny Yang
- Department of Pharmacology and Molecular Therapeutics, Uniformed Services University of the Health Sciences, Bethesda, MD, USA 20814
| | - Katherine Cox
- Department of Pharmacology and Molecular Therapeutics, Uniformed Services University of the Health Sciences, Bethesda, MD, USA 20814
| | - Robert L Kortum
- Department of Pharmacology and Molecular Therapeutics, Uniformed Services University of the Health Sciences, Bethesda, MD, USA 20814
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19
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Yin G, Huang J, Petela J, Jiang H, Zhang Y, Gong S, Wu J, Liu B, Shi J, Gao Y. Targeting small GTPases: emerging grasps on previously untamable targets, pioneered by KRAS. Signal Transduct Target Ther 2023; 8:212. [PMID: 37221195 DOI: 10.1038/s41392-023-01441-4] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/23/2022] [Revised: 03/28/2023] [Accepted: 04/14/2023] [Indexed: 05/25/2023] Open
Abstract
Small GTPases including Ras, Rho, Rab, Arf, and Ran are omnipresent molecular switches in regulating key cellular functions. Their dysregulation is a therapeutic target for tumors, neurodegeneration, cardiomyopathies, and infection. However, small GTPases have been historically recognized as "undruggable". Targeting KRAS, one of the most frequently mutated oncogenes, has only come into reality in the last decade due to the development of breakthrough strategies such as fragment-based screening, covalent ligands, macromolecule inhibitors, and PROTACs. Two KRASG12C covalent inhibitors have obtained accelerated approval for treating KRASG12C mutant lung cancer, and allele-specific hotspot mutations on G12D/S/R have been demonstrated as viable targets. New methods of targeting KRAS are quickly evolving, including transcription, immunogenic neoepitopes, and combinatory targeting with immunotherapy. Nevertheless, the vast majority of small GTPases and hotspot mutations remain elusive, and clinical resistance to G12C inhibitors poses new challenges. In this article, we summarize diversified biological functions, shared structural properties, and complex regulatory mechanisms of small GTPases and their relationships with human diseases. Furthermore, we review the status of drug discovery for targeting small GTPases and the most recent strategic progress focused on targeting KRAS. The discovery of new regulatory mechanisms and development of targeting approaches will together promote drug discovery for small GTPases.
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Affiliation(s)
- Guowei Yin
- The Seventh Affiliated Hospital of Sun Yat-sen University, Shenzhen, 518107, China.
| | - Jing Huang
- State Key Laboratory of Oncology in South China, Guangdong Key Laboratory of Nasopharyngeal Carcinoma Diagnosis and Therapy, Sun Yat-sen University Cancer Center, Guangzhou, 510060, China
| | - Johnny Petela
- Wake Forest University School of Medicine, Winston-Salem, NC, 27101, USA
| | - Hongmei Jiang
- The Seventh Affiliated Hospital of Sun Yat-sen University, Shenzhen, 518107, China
| | - Yuetong Zhang
- State Key Laboratory of Oncology in South China, Guangdong Key Laboratory of Nasopharyngeal Carcinoma Diagnosis and Therapy, Sun Yat-sen University Cancer Center, Guangzhou, 510060, China
| | - Siqi Gong
- The Seventh Affiliated Hospital of Sun Yat-sen University, Shenzhen, 518107, China
- School of Medicine, Sun Yat-Sen University, Shenzhen, 518107, China
| | - Jiaxin Wu
- State Key Laboratory of Oncology in South China, Guangdong Key Laboratory of Nasopharyngeal Carcinoma Diagnosis and Therapy, Sun Yat-sen University Cancer Center, Guangzhou, 510060, China
| | - Bei Liu
- National Biomedical Imaging Center, School of Future Technology, Peking University, Beijing, 100871, China
| | - Jianyou Shi
- Department of Pharmacy, Personalized Drug Therapy Key Laboratory of Sichuan Province, Sichuan Academy of Medical Sciences & Sichuan Provincial People's Hospital, School of Medicine, University of Electronic Science and Technology, Chengdu, 610072, China.
| | - Yijun Gao
- State Key Laboratory of Oncology in South China, Guangdong Key Laboratory of Nasopharyngeal Carcinoma Diagnosis and Therapy, Sun Yat-sen University Cancer Center, Guangzhou, 510060, China.
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20
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Harwood SJ, Smith CR, Lawson JD, Ketcham JM. Selected Approaches to Disrupting Protein-Protein Interactions within the MAPK/RAS Pathway. Int J Mol Sci 2023; 24:ijms24087373. [PMID: 37108538 PMCID: PMC10139024 DOI: 10.3390/ijms24087373] [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: 03/24/2023] [Revised: 04/11/2023] [Accepted: 04/12/2023] [Indexed: 04/29/2023] Open
Abstract
Within the MAPK/RAS pathway, there exists a plethora of protein-protein interactions (PPIs). For many years, scientists have focused efforts on drugging KRAS and its effectors in hopes to provide much needed therapies for patients with KRAS-mutant driven cancers. In this review, we focus on recent strategies to inhibit RAS-signaling via disrupting PPIs associated with SOS1, RAF, PDEδ, Grb2, and RAS.
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Affiliation(s)
| | | | - J David Lawson
- Mirati Therapeutics, 3545 Cray Court, San Diego, CA 92121, USA
| | - John M Ketcham
- Mirati Therapeutics, 3545 Cray Court, San Diego, CA 92121, USA
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21
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Luo G, Wang B, Hou Q, Wu X. Development of Son of Sevenless Homologue 1 (SOS1) Modulators To Treat Cancers by Regulating RAS Signaling. J Med Chem 2023; 66:4324-4341. [PMID: 36987571 DOI: 10.1021/acs.jmedchem.2c01729] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 10.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 03/30/2023]
Abstract
Son of sevenless homologue 1 (SOS1) protein is universally expressed in cells and plays an important role in the RAS signaling pathway. Specifically, this protein interacts with RAS in response to upstream stimuli to promote guanine nucleotide exchange in RAS and activates the downstream signaling pathways. Thus, targeting SOS1 is a new approach for treating RAS-driven cancers. In this Perspective, we briefly summarize the structural and functional aspects of SOS1 and focus on recent advances in the discovery of activators, inhibitors, and PROTACs that target SOS1. This review aims to provide a timely and updated overview on the strategies for targeting SOS1 in cancer therapy.
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Affiliation(s)
- Guangmei Luo
- Department of Medicinal Chemistry, School of Pharmacy and Institute of Innovative Drug Discovery and Development, China Pharmaceutical University, Nanjing 211198, China
| | - Bingrui Wang
- Department of Medicinal Chemistry, School of Pharmacy and Institute of Innovative Drug Discovery and Development, China Pharmaceutical University, Nanjing 211198, China
| | - Qiangqiang Hou
- Department of Medicinal Chemistry, School of Pharmacy and Institute of Innovative Drug Discovery and Development, China Pharmaceutical University, Nanjing 211198, China
| | - Xiaoxing Wu
- Department of Medicinal Chemistry, School of Pharmacy and Institute of Innovative Drug Discovery and Development, China Pharmaceutical University, Nanjing 211198, China
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22
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Zhang S, Zhang Y, Chen X, Xu J, Fang H, Li Y, Liu Y, He H. Design and Structural Optimization of Orally Bioavailable SOS1 Inhibitors for the Treatment of KRAS-Driven Carcinoma. J Med Chem 2022; 65:15856-15877. [PMID: 36384290 DOI: 10.1021/acs.jmedchem.2c01517] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/19/2022]
Abstract
KRAS mutations (G12C, G12D, etc.) are implicated in the oncogenesis and progression of many refractory cancers. Son of sevenless homolog 1 (SOS1) is a key regulator of KRAS to modulate KRAS from inactive to active states. Herein, we disclosed efficacy-improving tetra-cyclic quinazoline derivatives as an enhanced scaffold for inhibiting the SOS1-KRAS interaction. Compound 37, which conjugated 1-carbonitrile-cyclopropane to tetra-cyclic quinazoline, showed a twofold higher oral drug exposure and 2.5-fold longer half-life than BI-3406 in CD-1 mouse plasma. In a Mia-paca-2 xenograft model, 37 administrated alone inhibited tumor growth by 71%. Preclinical investigations demonstrated that 37 had a limited inhibition of CYP and hERG. Overall, our studies showed that 37 was a promising drug candidate for treatment of KRAS-driven cancer.
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Affiliation(s)
- Silong Zhang
- Key Laboratory of Coal Conversion and New Carbon Materials of Hubei Province, College of Chemistry and Chemical Engineering, Wuhan University of Science and Technology, Wuhan430081, P. R. China.,Wuhan Yuxiang Pharmaceutial Technology Co., Ltd., Wuhan430200, P. R. China
| | - Yu Zhang
- Key Laboratory of Coal Conversion and New Carbon Materials of Hubei Province, College of Chemistry and Chemical Engineering, Wuhan University of Science and Technology, Wuhan430081, P. R. China
| | - Xin Chen
- School of Life Science and Technology & School of Chemical and Environmental Engineering, Wuhan Polytechnic University, Wuhan430023, P. R. China
| | - Juan Xu
- Wuhan Yuxiang Pharmaceutial Technology Co., Ltd., Wuhan430200, P. R. China.,College of Chemistry and Chemical Engineering, Hubei Polytechnic University, Huangshi435003, P. R. China
| | - Huaxiang Fang
- Wuhan Yuxiang Pharmaceutial Technology Co., Ltd., Wuhan430200, P. R. China
| | - Yuanyuan Li
- School of Life Science and Technology & School of Chemical and Environmental Engineering, Wuhan Polytechnic University, Wuhan430023, P. R. China.,Wuhan Yuxiang Pharmaceutial Technology Co., Ltd., Wuhan430200, P. R. China
| | - Yi Liu
- Key Laboratory of Coal Conversion and New Carbon Materials of Hubei Province, College of Chemistry and Chemical Engineering, Wuhan University of Science and Technology, Wuhan430081, P. R. China.,School of Life Science and Technology & School of Chemical and Environmental Engineering, Wuhan Polytechnic University, Wuhan430023, P. R. China.,State Key Laboratory of Membrane Separation and Membrane Process & Engineering Research Center of Precision Diagnosis and Treatment Technology and Equipment (MOE), School of Chemistry, Tiangong University, Tianjin300387, P. R. China
| | - Huan He
- Key Laboratory of Coal Conversion and New Carbon Materials of Hubei Province, College of Chemistry and Chemical Engineering, Wuhan University of Science and Technology, Wuhan430081, P. R. China.,Wuhan Yuxiang Pharmaceutial Technology Co., Ltd., Wuhan430200, P. R. China
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23
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He H, Zhang Y, Xu J, Li Y, Fang H, Liu Y, Zhang S. Discovery of Orally Bioavailable SOS1 Inhibitors for Suppressing KRAS-Driven Carcinoma. J Med Chem 2022; 65:13158-13171. [PMID: 36173339 DOI: 10.1021/acs.jmedchem.2c00986] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/15/2023]
Abstract
The interaction between son of sevenless 1 (SOS1) gene and Kirsten rat sarcoma viral oncogene (KRAS) is crucial for activating signals of proliferation and survival in a range of cancers. We previously discovered compound 40a with a tetracyclic quinazoline pharmacophore as a potent orally bioavailable SOS1 inhibitor. Herein, we disclosed the discovery of compound 13c, which substituted the third ring with the seven-membered ring, as a clinical drug candidate for suppressing KRAS-driven tumors. 13c strongly disrupted the protein-protein interaction between SOS1 and KRAS with low IC50 values of 3.9 nM (biochemical) and 21 nM (cellular). 13c showed a favorable pharmacokinetic profile with a bioavailability of 86.8% in beagles and exhibited 83.0% tumor suppression in Mia-paca-2 pancreas xenograft mice tumor models. 13c exhibited a weak time-dependent CY3A4P inhibition than BI-3406, thereby reducing the risk of drug-drug interaction in drug combination. Toxicological investigations revealed that 13c had a lower risk of sudden cardiac death than BI-3406. Overall, 13c has been under evaluation in preclinical trials.
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Affiliation(s)
- Huan He
- Key Laboratory of Coal Conversion and New Carbon Materials of Hubei Province, College of Chemistry and Chemical Engineering, Institute of Advanced Materials and Nanotechnology, Wuhan University of Science and Technology, Wuhan 430081, P. R. China
- Wuhan Yuxiang Pharmaceutical Technology Co., Ltd., Wuhan 430200, P. R. China
| | - Yu Zhang
- Key Laboratory of Coal Conversion and New Carbon Materials of Hubei Province, College of Chemistry and Chemical Engineering, Institute of Advanced Materials and Nanotechnology, Wuhan University of Science and Technology, Wuhan 430081, P. R. China
| | - Juan Xu
- College of Chemistry and Chemical Engineering, Hubei Polytechnic University, Huangshi 435003, P. R. China
- Wuhan Yuxiang Pharmaceutical Technology Co., Ltd., Wuhan 430200, P. R. China
| | - Yuanyuan Li
- Wuhan Yuxiang Pharmaceutical Technology Co., Ltd., Wuhan 430200, P. R. China
- School of Life Science and Technology & School Chemical and Environmental Engineering, Wuhan Polytechnic University, Wuhan 430023, P. R. China
| | - Huaxiang Fang
- Wuhan Yuxiang Pharmaceutical Technology Co., Ltd., Wuhan 430200, P. R. China
| | - Yi Liu
- Key Laboratory of Coal Conversion and New Carbon Materials of Hubei Province, College of Chemistry and Chemical Engineering, Institute of Advanced Materials and Nanotechnology, Wuhan University of Science and Technology, Wuhan 430081, P. R. China
- School of Life Science and Technology & School Chemical and Environmental Engineering, Wuhan Polytechnic University, Wuhan 430023, P. R. China
- State Key Laboratory of Membrane Separation and Membrane Process & Tianjin Key Laboratory of Green Chemical Technology and Process Engineering, School of Chemistry, Tiangong University, Tianjin 300387, P. R. China
| | - Silong Zhang
- Key Laboratory of Coal Conversion and New Carbon Materials of Hubei Province, College of Chemistry and Chemical Engineering, Institute of Advanced Materials and Nanotechnology, Wuhan University of Science and Technology, Wuhan 430081, P. R. China
- Wuhan Yuxiang Pharmaceutical Technology Co., Ltd., Wuhan 430200, P. R. China
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24
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Zhao L, Pu M, Wang H, Ma X, Zhang YJ. Modified Electrostatic Complementary Score Function and Its Application Boundary Exploration in Drug Design. J Chem Inf Model 2022; 62:4420-4426. [PMID: 36069259 DOI: 10.1021/acs.jcim.2c00616] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/28/2022]
Abstract
In recent years, machine learning (ML) models have been found to quickly predict various molecular properties with accuracy comparable to high-level quantum chemistry methods. One such example is the calculation of electrostatic potential (ESP). Different ESP prediction ML models were proposed to generate surface molecular charge distribution. Electrostatic complementarity (EC) can apply ESP data to quantify the complementarity between a ligand and its binding pocket, leading to the potential to increase the efficiency of drug design. However, there is not much research discussing EC score functions and their applicability domain. We propose a new EC score function modified from the one originally developed by Bauer and Mackey, and confirm its effectiveness against the available Pearson's R correlation coefficient. Additionally, the applicability domain of the EC score and two indices used to define the EC score application scope will be discussed.
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Affiliation(s)
- Liming Zhao
- Beijing StoneWise Technology Co Ltd., Haidian Street #15, Haidian District, Beijing 100080, China
| | - Mengchen Pu
- Beijing StoneWise Technology Co Ltd., Haidian Street #15, Haidian District, Beijing 100080, China
| | - Huting Wang
- Beijing StoneWise Technology Co Ltd., Haidian Street #15, Haidian District, Beijing 100080, China
| | - Xiangyu Ma
- Beijing StoneWise Technology Co Ltd., Haidian Street #15, Haidian District, Beijing 100080, China
| | - Yingsheng J Zhang
- Beijing StoneWise Technology Co Ltd., Haidian Street #15, Haidian District, Beijing 100080, China
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25
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Feldman HC, Merlini E, Guijas C, DeMeester KE, Njomen E, Kozina EM, Yokoyama M, Vinogradova E, Reardon HT, Melillo B, Schreiber SL, Loreto A, Blankman JL, Cravatt BF. Selective inhibitors of SARM1 targeting an allosteric cysteine in the autoregulatory ARM domain. Proc Natl Acad Sci U S A 2022; 119:e2208457119. [PMID: 35994671 PMCID: PMC9436332 DOI: 10.1073/pnas.2208457119] [Citation(s) in RCA: 31] [Impact Index Per Article: 15.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/16/2022] [Accepted: 07/25/2022] [Indexed: 12/23/2022] Open
Abstract
The nicotinamide adenine dinucleotide hydrolase (NADase) sterile alpha toll/interleukin receptor motif containing-1 (SARM1) acts as a central executioner of programmed axon death and is a possible therapeutic target for neurodegenerative disorders. While orthosteric inhibitors of SARM1 have been described, this multidomain enzyme is also subject to intricate forms of autoregulation, suggesting the potential for allosteric modes of inhibition. Previous studies have identified multiple cysteine residues that support SARM1 activation and catalysis, but which of these cysteines, if any, might be selectively targetable by electrophilic small molecules remains unknown. Here, we describe the chemical proteomic discovery of a series of tryptoline acrylamides that site-specifically and stereoselectively modify cysteine-311 (C311) in the noncatalytic, autoregulatory armadillo repeat (ARM) domain of SARM1. These covalent compounds inhibit the NADase activity of WT-SARM1, but not C311A or C311S SARM1 mutants, show a high degree of proteome-wide selectivity for SARM1_C311 and stereoselectively block vincristine- and vacor-induced neurite degeneration in primary rodent dorsal root ganglion neurons. Our findings describe selective, covalent inhibitors of SARM1 targeting an allosteric cysteine, pointing to a potentially attractive therapeutic strategy for axon degeneration-dependent forms of neurological disease.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Elisa Merlini
- John van Geest Centre for Brain Repair, Department of Clinical Neurosciences, University of Cambridge, Cambridge, CB2 0PY, United Kingdom
| | - Carlos Guijas
- Lundbeck La Jolla Research Center Inc, San Diego, CA 92121
| | | | - Evert Njomen
- Department of Chemistry, Scripps Research, La Jolla, CA 92037
| | - Ellen M Kozina
- Lundbeck La Jolla Research Center Inc, San Diego, CA 92121
| | - Minoru Yokoyama
- Department of Chemistry, Scripps Research, La Jolla, CA 92037
| | | | | | - Bruno Melillo
- Department of Chemistry, Scripps Research, La Jolla, CA 92037
- Chemical Biology and Therapeutics Science Program, Broad Institute, Cambridge, MA 02138
| | - Stuart L Schreiber
- Chemical Biology and Therapeutics Science Program, Broad Institute, Cambridge, MA 02138
- Department of Chemistry and Chemical Biology, Harvard University, Cambridge, MA 02138
| | - Andrea Loreto
- John van Geest Centre for Brain Repair, Department of Clinical Neurosciences, University of Cambridge, Cambridge, CB2 0PY, United Kingdom
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26
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Ketcham JM, Haling J, Khare S, Bowcut V, Briere DM, Burns AC, Gunn RJ, Ivetac A, Kuehler J, Kulyk S, Laguer J, Lawson JD, Moya K, Nguyen N, Rahbaek L, Saechao B, Smith CR, Sudhakar N, Thomas NC, Vegar L, Vanderpool D, Wang X, Yan L, Olson P, Christensen JG, Marx MA. Design and Discovery of MRTX0902, a Potent, Selective, Brain-Penetrant, and Orally Bioavailable Inhibitor of the SOS1:KRAS Protein-Protein Interaction. J Med Chem 2022; 65:9678-9690. [PMID: 35833726 PMCID: PMC9340770 DOI: 10.1021/acs.jmedchem.2c00741] [Citation(s) in RCA: 26] [Impact Index Per Article: 13.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/13/2022]
Abstract
![]()
SOS1 is one of the major guanine nucleotide exchange
factors that
regulates the ability of KRAS to cycle through its “on”
and “off” states. Disrupting the SOS1:KRASG12C protein–protein interaction (PPI) can increase the proportion
of GDP-loaded KRASG12C, providing a strong mechanistic
rationale for combining inhibitors of the SOS1:KRAS complex with inhibitors
like MRTX849 that target GDP-loaded KRASG12C. In this report,
we detail the design and discovery of MRTX0902—a potent, selective,
brain-penetrant, and orally bioavailable SOS1 binder that disrupts
the SOS1:KRASG12C PPI. Oral administration of MRTX0902
in combination with MRTX849 results in a significant increase in antitumor
activity relative to that of either single agent, including tumor
regressions in a subset of animals in the MIA PaCa-2 tumor mouse xenograft
model.
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Affiliation(s)
- John M Ketcham
- Mirati Therapeutics, 3545 Cray Court, San Diego, California 92121, United States
| | - Jacob Haling
- Mirati Therapeutics, 3545 Cray Court, San Diego, California 92121, United States
| | - Shilpi Khare
- Mirati Therapeutics, 3545 Cray Court, San Diego, California 92121, United States
| | - Vickie Bowcut
- Mirati Therapeutics, 3545 Cray Court, San Diego, California 92121, United States
| | - David M Briere
- Mirati Therapeutics, 3545 Cray Court, San Diego, California 92121, United States
| | - Aaron C Burns
- Mirati Therapeutics, 3545 Cray Court, San Diego, California 92121, United States
| | - Robin J Gunn
- Mirati Therapeutics, 3545 Cray Court, San Diego, California 92121, United States
| | - Anthony Ivetac
- Mirati Therapeutics, 3545 Cray Court, San Diego, California 92121, United States
| | - Jon Kuehler
- Mirati Therapeutics, 3545 Cray Court, San Diego, California 92121, United States
| | - Svitlana Kulyk
- Mirati Therapeutics, 3545 Cray Court, San Diego, California 92121, United States
| | - Jade Laguer
- Mirati Therapeutics, 3545 Cray Court, San Diego, California 92121, United States
| | - J David Lawson
- Mirati Therapeutics, 3545 Cray Court, San Diego, California 92121, United States
| | - Krystal Moya
- Mirati Therapeutics, 3545 Cray Court, San Diego, California 92121, United States
| | - Natalie Nguyen
- Mirati Therapeutics, 3545 Cray Court, San Diego, California 92121, United States
| | - Lisa Rahbaek
- Mirati Therapeutics, 3545 Cray Court, San Diego, California 92121, United States
| | - Barbara Saechao
- Mirati Therapeutics, 3545 Cray Court, San Diego, California 92121, United States
| | - Christopher R Smith
- Mirati Therapeutics, 3545 Cray Court, San Diego, California 92121, United States
| | - Niranjan Sudhakar
- Mirati Therapeutics, 3545 Cray Court, San Diego, California 92121, United States
| | - Nicole C Thomas
- Mirati Therapeutics, 3545 Cray Court, San Diego, California 92121, United States
| | - Laura Vegar
- Mirati Therapeutics, 3545 Cray Court, San Diego, California 92121, United States
| | - Darin Vanderpool
- Mirati Therapeutics, 3545 Cray Court, San Diego, California 92121, United States
| | - Xiaolun Wang
- Mirati Therapeutics, 3545 Cray Court, San Diego, California 92121, United States
| | - Larry Yan
- Mirati Therapeutics, 3545 Cray Court, San Diego, California 92121, United States
| | - Peter Olson
- Mirati Therapeutics, 3545 Cray Court, San Diego, California 92121, United States
| | - James G Christensen
- Mirati Therapeutics, 3545 Cray Court, San Diego, California 92121, United States
| | - Matthew A Marx
- Mirati Therapeutics, 3545 Cray Court, San Diego, California 92121, United States
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27
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Zhou C, Fan Z, Zhou Z, Li Y, Cui R, Liu C, Zhou G, Diao X, Jiang H, Zheng M, Zhang S, Xu T. Discovery of the First-in-Class Agonist-Based SOS1 PROTACs Effective in Human Cancer Cells Harboring Various KRAS Mutations. J Med Chem 2022; 65:3923-3942. [PMID: 35230841 DOI: 10.1021/acs.jmedchem.1c01774] [Citation(s) in RCA: 38] [Impact Index Per Article: 19.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/29/2022]
Abstract
Regulating SOS1 functions may result in targeted pan-KRAS therapies. Small-molecule SOS1 inhibitors showed promising anticancer potential, and the most advanced inhibitor BI 1701963 is currently under phase I clinical studies. SOS1 agonists provide new opportunities to treat cancer; however, the underlying mechanisms still warrant investigation. We here report the discovery of the first SOS1 PROTACs designed uniquely by connecting a VHL ligand to the reported SOS1 agonist, ensuring that the observed inhibitory activity results from degraders. The best compound 9d induced SOS1 degradation in various KRAS-driven cancer cells and displayed superior antiproliferation activity compared to the agonist itself. Tumor xenograft study clearly showed the promising antitumor potency of 9d against human lung cancer. This study provides good evidence of using agonists to design SOS1 PROTACs and demonstrates that targeted SOS1 degradation represents an effective therapeutic strategy for overcoming KRAS-driven cancers.
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Affiliation(s)
- Chuan Zhou
- Department of Medicinal Chemistry, Shanghai Institute of Materia Medica, Chinese Academy of Sciences, 555 Zu Chong Zhi Road, Shanghai 201203, China
| | - Zisheng Fan
- School of Chinese Materia Medica, Nanjing University of Chinese Medicine, Nanjing 210023, China.,Drug Discovery and Design Center, State Key Laboratory of Drug Research, Shanghai Institute of Materia Medica, Chinese Academy of Sciences, 555 Zu Chong Zhi Road, Shanghai 201203, China
| | - Zehui Zhou
- Department of Medicinal Chemistry, Shanghai Institute of Materia Medica, Chinese Academy of Sciences, 555 Zu Chong Zhi Road, Shanghai 201203, China.,University of Chinese Academy of Sciences, No. 19A Yuquan Road, Beijing 100049, China
| | - Yupeng Li
- Masonic Cancer Center & Department of Medicinal Chemistry, University of Minnesota, Minneapolis, Minnesota 55455, United States
| | - Rongrong Cui
- School of Chinese Materia Medica, Nanjing University of Chinese Medicine, Nanjing 210023, China.,Drug Discovery and Design Center, State Key Laboratory of Drug Research, Shanghai Institute of Materia Medica, Chinese Academy of Sciences, 555 Zu Chong Zhi Road, Shanghai 201203, China
| | - Chaoyi Liu
- Department of Medicinal Chemistry, Shanghai Institute of Materia Medica, Chinese Academy of Sciences, 555 Zu Chong Zhi Road, Shanghai 201203, China
| | - Guizhen Zhou
- School of Chinese Materia Medica, Nanjing University of Chinese Medicine, Nanjing 210023, China.,Drug Discovery and Design Center, State Key Laboratory of Drug Research, Shanghai Institute of Materia Medica, Chinese Academy of Sciences, 555 Zu Chong Zhi Road, Shanghai 201203, China
| | - Xingxing Diao
- Shanghai Center for Drug Metabolism and Pharmacokinetics, Shanghai Institute of Materia Medica, Chinese Academy of Sciences, 555 Zu Chong Zhi Road, Shanghai 201203, China
| | - Hualiang Jiang
- School of Chinese Materia Medica, Nanjing University of Chinese Medicine, Nanjing 210023, China.,Drug Discovery and Design Center, State Key Laboratory of Drug Research, Shanghai Institute of Materia Medica, Chinese Academy of Sciences, 555 Zu Chong Zhi Road, Shanghai 201203, China.,University of Chinese Academy of Sciences, No. 19A Yuquan Road, Beijing 100049, China.,School of Pharmaceutical Science and Technology, Hangzhou Institute for Advanced Study, University of Chinese Academy of Sciences, Hangzhou 310024, China
| | - Mingyue Zheng
- School of Chinese Materia Medica, Nanjing University of Chinese Medicine, Nanjing 210023, China.,Drug Discovery and Design Center, State Key Laboratory of Drug Research, Shanghai Institute of Materia Medica, Chinese Academy of Sciences, 555 Zu Chong Zhi Road, Shanghai 201203, China.,University of Chinese Academy of Sciences, No. 19A Yuquan Road, Beijing 100049, China.,School of Pharmaceutical Science and Technology, Hangzhou Institute for Advanced Study, University of Chinese Academy of Sciences, Hangzhou 310024, China
| | - Sulin Zhang
- Drug Discovery and Design Center, State Key Laboratory of Drug Research, Shanghai Institute of Materia Medica, Chinese Academy of Sciences, 555 Zu Chong Zhi Road, Shanghai 201203, China.,University of Chinese Academy of Sciences, No. 19A Yuquan Road, Beijing 100049, China
| | - Tianfeng Xu
- Department of Medicinal Chemistry, Shanghai Institute of Materia Medica, Chinese Academy of Sciences, 555 Zu Chong Zhi Road, Shanghai 201203, China.,University of Chinese Academy of Sciences, No. 19A Yuquan Road, Beijing 100049, China.,School of Pharmaceutical Science and Technology, Hangzhou Institute for Advanced Study, University of Chinese Academy of Sciences, Hangzhou 310024, China
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28
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Abstract
RAS proteins play major roles in many human cancers, but programs to develop direct RAS inhibitors so far have only been successful for the oncogenic KRAS mutant G12C. As an alternative approach, inhibitors for the RAS guanine nucleotide exchange factor SOS1 have been investigated by several academic groups and companies, and major progress has been achieved in recent years in the optimization of small molecule activators and inhibitors of SOS1. Here, we review the discovery and development of small molecule modulators of SOS1 and their molecular binding modes and modes of action. As targeting the RAS pathway is expected to result in the development of resistance mechanisms, SOS1 inhibitors will most likely be best applied in vertical combination approaches where two nodes of the RAS signaling pathway are hit simultaneously. We summarize the current understanding of which combination partners may be most beneficial for patients with RAS driven tumors.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Benjamin Bader
- Screening, Lead Discovery, Nuvisan ICB GmbH, Berlin, Germany
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29
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Wang S, Meixner M, Yu L, Zhuo L, Karmann L, Kazmaier U, Vollmar AM, Antes I, Zahler S. Turning the Actin Nucleating Compound Miuraenamide into Nucleation Inhibitors. ACS OMEGA 2021; 6:22165-22172. [PMID: 34497907 PMCID: PMC8412923 DOI: 10.1021/acsomega.1c02838] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/31/2021] [Accepted: 07/28/2021] [Indexed: 05/15/2023]
Abstract
Natural compounds that either increase or decrease polymerization of actin into filaments have become indispensable tools for cell biology. However, to date, it was not possible to use them as therapeutics due to their overall cytotoxicity and their unfavorable pharmacokinetics. Furthermore, their synthesis is in general quite complicated. In an attempt to find simplified analogues of miuraenamide, an actin nucleating compound, we identified derivatives with a paradoxical inversion of the mode of action: instead of increased nucleation, they caused an inhibition. Using an extensive computational approach, we propose a binding mode and a mode of action for one of these derivatives. Based on our findings, it becomes feasible to tune actin-binding compounds to one or the other direction and to generate new synthetic actin binders with increased functional selectivity.
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Affiliation(s)
- Shuaijun Wang
- Department
of Pharmacy, Ludwig-Maximilians-Universität, 81377 Munich, Germany
| | - Maximilian Meixner
- Computational
Chemical Biology, Technische Universität
München, TUM School of Life Sciences, Emil-Erlenmeyer-Forum 8, 85354 Freising, Germany
- Center
for Protein Assemblies (CPA), Ernst-Otto-Fischer Str. 8, 85747 Garching, Germany
| | - Lushuang Yu
- Department
of Pharmacy, Ludwig-Maximilians-Universität, 81377 Munich, Germany
| | - Ling Zhuo
- Department
of Pharmacy, Ludwig-Maximilians-Universität, 81377 Munich, Germany
| | - Lisa Karmann
- Organic
Chemistry, Saarland University, 66123 Saarbrücken, Germany
| | - Uli Kazmaier
- Organic
Chemistry, Saarland University, 66123 Saarbrücken, Germany
| | - Angelika M. Vollmar
- Department
of Pharmacy, Ludwig-Maximilians-Universität, 81377 Munich, Germany
| | - Iris Antes
- Computational
Chemical Biology, Technische Universität
München, TUM School of Life Sciences, Emil-Erlenmeyer-Forum 8, 85354 Freising, Germany
- Center
for Protein Assemblies (CPA), Ernst-Otto-Fischer Str. 8, 85747 Garching, Germany
| | - Stefan Zahler
- Department
of Pharmacy, Ludwig-Maximilians-Universität, 81377 Munich, Germany
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Hamilton G, Plangger A. Cytotoxic activity of KRAS inhibitors in combination with chemotherapeutics. Expert Opin Drug Metab Toxicol 2021; 17:1065-1074. [PMID: 34347509 DOI: 10.1080/17425255.2021.1965123] [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] [Indexed: 02/07/2023]
Abstract
INTRODUCTION KRAS is the most frequently mutated oncogenic driver in pancreatic, lung, and colon cancer. Recently, KRAS inhibitors in clinical use show promising activity but most responses are partial and drug resistance develops. The use of therapeutics in combination with KRAS inhibitors are expected to improve outcomes. AREAS COVERED This review describes the KRAS G12C mutation-specific inhibitors and the SOS1-targeting inhibitors that reduce the GTP-loading of wildtype and mutated KRAS. Both types of compounds reduce tumor cell proliferation in vitro and in vivo. The combinations of the various KRAS inhibitors with downstream signaling effectors, modulators of KRAS-associated metabolic alterations and chemotherapeutics are summarized. EXPERT OPINION The clinical potency of mutated KRAS-specific inhibitors needs to be improved by suitable drug combinations. Inhibition of downstream signaling cascades increases toxicity and other combinations exploited comprise G12C-directed inhibitors with SOS1 inhibitors, glucose/glutamine metabolic modulators, classical chemotherapeutics, and others. The most suitable inhibitor combinations corroborated in preclinical development await clinical verification.
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Affiliation(s)
- Gerhard Hamilton
- Department Of Vascular Surgery, Medical University Of Vienna, Vienna, Austria
| | - Adelina Plangger
- Department Of Vascular Surgery, Medical University Of Vienna, Vienna, Austria
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31
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Thompson SK, Buckl A, Dossetter AG, Griffen E, Gill A. Small molecule Son of Sevenless 1 (SOS1) inhibitors: a review of the patent literature. Expert Opin Ther Pat 2021; 31:1189-1204. [PMID: 34253125 DOI: 10.1080/13543776.2021.1952984] [Citation(s) in RCA: 12] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 02/07/2023]
Abstract
Introduction: Up to 30% of all human cancers are driven by the overactivation of RAS signaling. Son of Sevenless 1 (SOS1) is a central node in RAS signaling pathways and modulation of SOS1-mediated RAS activation represents a unique opportunity for treating RAS-addicted cancers. Several recent publications and patent documents have demonstrated the ability of small molecules to affect the activation of RAS by SOS1 and have shown their potential for the treatment of cancers driven by RAS mutants.Areas covered: Documents focusing on both small-molecule inhibitors and activators of the SOS1:RAS interaction and their potential use as cancer therapeutics are covered. A total of 10 documents from 4 applicants are evaluated with discussion focusing on structural modifications of these compounds as well as relevant preclinical data.Expert opinion: The last decade has seen a significant increase in research and disclosures in the development of small-molecule SOS1 inhibitors. Considering the promising data that have been disclosed, interest in this area of research will likely remain strong for the foreseeable future. With the first SOS1 inhibitor currently in phase I clinical trials, the outcome of these trials will likely influence future development of SOS1 inhibitors for treatment of RAS-driven cancers.
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Affiliation(s)
- Severin K Thompson
- Department of Discovery Chemistry, Revolution Medicines Inc., Redwood City, CA, USA
| | - Andreas Buckl
- Department of Discovery Chemistry, Revolution Medicines Inc., Redwood City, CA, USA
| | | | - Ed Griffen
- Medchemica Limited, Biohub, Mereside, Cheshire, UK
| | - Adrian Gill
- Department of Discovery Chemistry, Revolution Medicines Inc., Redwood City, CA, USA
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Sheffels E, Kortum RL. Breaking Oncogene Addiction: Getting RTK/RAS-Mutated Cancers off the SOS. J Med Chem 2021; 64:6566-6568. [PMID: 33961431 DOI: 10.1021/acs.jmedchem.1c00698] [Citation(s) in RCA: 14] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 02/06/2023]
Abstract
In RTK/RAS-mutated cancers, therapeutic resistance is driven by rebound activation of multiple RTKs; broad inhibition of RTK signaling can potentially delay therapeutic resistance for a majority of patients. A new SOS1 inhibitor, BI-3406, broadly inhibits proximal RTK signaling will greatly expand the efficacy of therapies used to treat RTK/RAS-mutated cancers.
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Affiliation(s)
- Erin Sheffels
- Department of Pharmacology and Molecular Therapeutics, Uniformed Services University of the Health Sciences, Bethesda, Maryland 20814, United States
| | - Robert L Kortum
- Department of Pharmacology and Molecular Therapeutics, Uniformed Services University of the Health Sciences, Bethesda, Maryland 20814, United States
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Sheffels E, Kortum RL. The Role of Wild-Type RAS in Oncogenic RAS Transformation. Genes (Basel) 2021; 12:genes12050662. [PMID: 33924994 PMCID: PMC8146411 DOI: 10.3390/genes12050662] [Citation(s) in RCA: 23] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/09/2021] [Revised: 04/23/2021] [Accepted: 04/27/2021] [Indexed: 02/06/2023] Open
Abstract
The RAS family of oncogenes (HRAS, NRAS, and KRAS) are among the most frequently mutated protein families in cancers. RAS-mutated tumors were originally thought to proliferate independently of upstream signaling inputs, but we now know that non-mutated wild-type (WT) RAS proteins play an important role in modulating downstream effector signaling and driving therapeutic resistance in RAS-mutated cancers. This modulation is complex as different WT RAS family members have opposing functions. The protein product of the WT RAS allele of the same isoform as mutated RAS is often tumor-suppressive and lost during tumor progression. In contrast, RTK-dependent activation of the WT RAS proteins from the two non-mutated WT RAS family members is tumor-promoting. Further, rebound activation of RTK–WT RAS signaling underlies therapeutic resistance to targeted therapeutics in RAS-mutated cancers. The contributions of WT RAS to proliferation and transformation in RAS-mutated cancer cells places renewed interest in upstream signaling molecules, including the phosphatase/adaptor SHP2 and the RasGEFs SOS1 and SOS2, as potential therapeutic targets in RAS-mutated cancers.
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Kessler D, Gerlach D, Kraut N, McConnell DB. Targeting Son of Sevenless 1: The pacemaker of KRAS. Curr Opin Chem Biol 2021; 62:109-118. [PMID: 33848766 DOI: 10.1016/j.cbpa.2021.02.014] [Citation(s) in RCA: 52] [Impact Index Per Article: 17.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/12/2021] [Revised: 02/23/2021] [Accepted: 02/27/2021] [Indexed: 12/12/2022]
Abstract
Son of Sevenless (SOS) is a guanine nucleotide exchange factor that activates the important cell signaling switch KRAS. SOS acts as a pacemaker for KRAS, the beating heart of cancer, by catalyzing the "beating" from the KRAS(off) to the KRAS(on) conformation. Activating mutations in SOS1 are common in Noonan syndrome and oncogenic alterations in KRAS drive 1 in seven human cancers. Promising clinical efficacy has been observed for selective KRASG12C inhibitors, but the vast majority of oncogenic KRAS alterations remain undrugged. The discovery of a druggable pocket on SOS1 has led to potent SOS1 inhibitors such as BI-3406. SOS1 inhibition leads to antiproliferative effects against all major KRAS mutants. The first SOS1 inhibitor has entered clinical trials for KRAS-mutated cancers. In this review, we provide an overview of SOS1 function, its association with cancer and RASopathies, known SOS1 activators and inhibitors, and a future perspective is provided.
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Affiliation(s)
- Dirk Kessler
- Discovery Research, Boehringer Ingelheim Regional Center Vienna GmbH & Co KG, 1120, Vienna, Austria
| | - Daniel Gerlach
- Discovery Research, Boehringer Ingelheim Regional Center Vienna GmbH & Co KG, 1120, Vienna, Austria
| | - Norbert Kraut
- Discovery Research, Boehringer Ingelheim Regional Center Vienna GmbH & Co KG, 1120, Vienna, Austria
| | - Darryl B McConnell
- Discovery Research, Boehringer Ingelheim Regional Center Vienna GmbH & Co KG, 1120, Vienna, Austria.
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