1
|
Hillebrand L, Liang XJ, Serafim RAM, Gehringer M. Emerging and Re-emerging Warheads for Targeted Covalent Inhibitors: An Update. J Med Chem 2024; 67:7668-7758. [PMID: 38711345 DOI: 10.1021/acs.jmedchem.3c01825] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 05/08/2024]
Abstract
Covalent inhibitors and other types of covalent modalities have seen a revival in the past two decades, with a variety of new targeted covalent drugs having been approved in recent years. A key feature of such molecules is an intrinsically reactive group, typically a weak electrophile, which enables the irreversible or reversible formation of a covalent bond with a specific amino acid of the target protein. This reactive group, often called the "warhead", is a critical determinant of the ligand's activity, selectivity, and general biological properties. In 2019, we summarized emerging and re-emerging warhead chemistries to target cysteine and other amino acids (Gehringer, M.; Laufer, S. A. J. Med. Chem. 2019, 62, 5673-5724; DOI: 10.1021/acs.jmedchem.8b01153). Since then, the field has rapidly evolved. Here we discuss the progress on covalent warheads made since our last Perspective and their application in medicinal chemistry and chemical biology.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Laura Hillebrand
- Department of Pharmaceutical/Medicinal Chemistry, Eberhard Karls University Tübingen, Auf der Morgenstelle 8, 72076 Tübingen, Germany
| | - Xiaojun Julia Liang
- Department of Pharmaceutical/Medicinal Chemistry, Eberhard Karls University Tübingen, Auf der Morgenstelle 8, 72076 Tübingen, Germany
- Cluster of Excellence iFIT (EXC 2180) "Image-Guided & Functionally Instructed Tumor Therapies", University of Tübingen, 72076 Tübingen, Germany
| | - Ricardo A M Serafim
- Department of Pharmaceutical/Medicinal Chemistry, Eberhard Karls University Tübingen, Auf der Morgenstelle 8, 72076 Tübingen, Germany
| | - Matthias Gehringer
- Department of Pharmaceutical/Medicinal Chemistry, Eberhard Karls University Tübingen, Auf der Morgenstelle 8, 72076 Tübingen, Germany
- Cluster of Excellence iFIT (EXC 2180) "Image-Guided & Functionally Instructed Tumor Therapies", University of Tübingen, 72076 Tübingen, Germany
| |
Collapse
|
2
|
Schwarz M, Kurkunov M, Wittlinger F, Rudalska R, Wang G, Schwalm MP, Rasch A, Wagner B, Laufer SA, Knapp S, Dauch D, Gehringer M. Development of Highly Potent and Selective Covalent FGFR4 Inhibitors Based on S NAr Electrophiles. J Med Chem 2024; 67:6549-6569. [PMID: 38604131 DOI: 10.1021/acs.jmedchem.3c02483] [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: 04/13/2024]
Abstract
Fibroblast growth factor receptor 4 (FGFR4) is thought to be a driver in several cancer types, most notably in hepatocellular carcinoma. One way to achieve high potency and isoform selectivity for FGFR4 is covalently targeting a rare cysteine (C552) in the hinge region of its kinase domain that is not present in other FGFR family members (FGFR1-3). Typically, this cysteine is addressed via classical acrylamide electrophiles. We demonstrate that noncanonical covalent "warheads" based on nucleophilic aromatic substitution (SNAr) chemistry can be employed in a rational manner to generate highly potent and (isoform-)selective FGFR4 inhibitors with a low intrinsic reactivity. Key compounds showed low to subnanomolar potency, efficient covalent inactivation kinetics, and excellent selectivity against the other FGFRs, the kinases with an equivalent cysteine, and a representative subset of the kinome. Moreover, these compounds achieved nanomolar potencies in cellular assays and demonstrated good microsomal stability, highlighting the potential of SNAr-based approaches in covalent inhibitor design.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Moritz Schwarz
- Department of Pharmaceutical/Medicinal Chemistry, Institute of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Eberhard Karls University Tübingen, 72076 Tübingen, Germany
| | - Maksym Kurkunov
- Department of Pharmaceutical/Medicinal Chemistry, Institute of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Eberhard Karls University Tübingen, 72076 Tübingen, Germany
- Cluster of Excellence iFIT (EXC 2180) "Image-Guided and Functionally Instructed Tumor Therapies", University of Tübingen, 72076 Tübingen, Germany
| | - Florian Wittlinger
- Department of Pharmaceutical/Medicinal Chemistry, Institute of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Eberhard Karls University Tübingen, 72076 Tübingen, Germany
| | - Ramona Rudalska
- Cluster of Excellence iFIT (EXC 2180) "Image-Guided and Functionally Instructed Tumor Therapies", University of Tübingen, 72076 Tübingen, Germany
- Department of Medical Oncology and Pneumology, University Hospital Tübingen, 72076 Tübingen, Germany
| | - Guiqun Wang
- German Cancer Research Consortium (DKTK), German Cancer Research Center (DKFZ), 69120 Heidelberg, Germany
- Structural Genomics Consortium (SGC), Buchmann Institute for Molecular Life Sciences, Goethe-University Frankfurt, Max-von Laue Str. 15, 60438 Frankfurt am Main, Germany
- Institute of Pharmaceutical Chemistry, Goethe-University Frankfurt, Max-von Laue Str. 9, 60438 Frankfurt am Main, Germany
| | - Martin Peter Schwalm
- German Cancer Research Consortium (DKTK), German Cancer Research Center (DKFZ), 69120 Heidelberg, Germany
- Structural Genomics Consortium (SGC), Buchmann Institute for Molecular Life Sciences, Goethe-University Frankfurt, Max-von Laue Str. 15, 60438 Frankfurt am Main, Germany
- Institute of Pharmaceutical Chemistry, Goethe-University Frankfurt, Max-von Laue Str. 9, 60438 Frankfurt am Main, Germany
| | - Alexander Rasch
- Department of Pharmaceutical/Medicinal Chemistry, Institute of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Eberhard Karls University Tübingen, 72076 Tübingen, Germany
| | - Benedikt Wagner
- Department of Pharmaceutical/Medicinal Chemistry, Institute of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Eberhard Karls University Tübingen, 72076 Tübingen, Germany
- Cluster of Excellence iFIT (EXC 2180) "Image-Guided and Functionally Instructed Tumor Therapies", University of Tübingen, 72076 Tübingen, Germany
| | - Stefan A Laufer
- Department of Pharmaceutical/Medicinal Chemistry, Institute of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Eberhard Karls University Tübingen, 72076 Tübingen, Germany
- Cluster of Excellence iFIT (EXC 2180) "Image-Guided and Functionally Instructed Tumor Therapies", University of Tübingen, 72076 Tübingen, Germany
- Tübingen Center for Academic Drug Discovery & Development (TüCAD2), 72076 Tübingen, Germany
| | - Stefan Knapp
- German Cancer Research Consortium (DKTK), German Cancer Research Center (DKFZ), 69120 Heidelberg, Germany
- Structural Genomics Consortium (SGC), Buchmann Institute for Molecular Life Sciences, Goethe-University Frankfurt, Max-von Laue Str. 15, 60438 Frankfurt am Main, Germany
- Institute of Pharmaceutical Chemistry, Goethe-University Frankfurt, Max-von Laue Str. 9, 60438 Frankfurt am Main, Germany
| | - Daniel Dauch
- Cluster of Excellence iFIT (EXC 2180) "Image-Guided and Functionally Instructed Tumor Therapies", University of Tübingen, 72076 Tübingen, Germany
- Department of Medical Oncology and Pneumology, University Hospital Tübingen, 72076 Tübingen, Germany
- Tübingen Center for Academic Drug Discovery & Development (TüCAD2), 72076 Tübingen, Germany
| | - Matthias Gehringer
- Department of Pharmaceutical/Medicinal Chemistry, Institute of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Eberhard Karls University Tübingen, 72076 Tübingen, Germany
- Cluster of Excellence iFIT (EXC 2180) "Image-Guided and Functionally Instructed Tumor Therapies", University of Tübingen, 72076 Tübingen, Germany
| |
Collapse
|
3
|
Serafim RAM, Gehringer M, Borsari C. Targeted Covalent Inhibitors in Drug Discovery, Chemical Biology and Beyond. Pharmaceuticals (Basel) 2024; 17:206. [PMID: 38399421 PMCID: PMC10891537 DOI: 10.3390/ph17020206] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/29/2023] [Accepted: 01/31/2024] [Indexed: 02/25/2024] Open
Abstract
Covalent inhibitors have experienced a revival in medicinal chemistry and chemical biology in recent decades [...].
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Ricardo A. M. Serafim
- Department of Pharmaceutical/Medicinal Chemistry, Institute of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Eberhard Karls University Tübingen, 72076 Tübingen, Germany
| | - Matthias Gehringer
- Department of Pharmaceutical/Medicinal Chemistry, Institute of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Eberhard Karls University Tübingen, 72076 Tübingen, Germany
- Cluster of Excellence iFIT (EXC 2180) ‘Image-Guided & Functionally Instructed Tumor Therapies’, University of Tübingen, 72076 Tübingen, Germany
| | - Chiara Borsari
- Department of Pharmaceutical Sciences, University of Milan, 20133 Milan, Italy
| |
Collapse
|
4
|
Mader MM, Rudolph J, Hartung IV, Uehling D, Workman P, Zuercher W. Which Small Molecule? Selecting Chemical Probes for Use in Cancer Research and Target Validation. Cancer Discov 2023; 13:2150-2165. [PMID: 37712569 DOI: 10.1158/2159-8290.cd-23-0536] [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: 05/05/2023] [Revised: 07/17/2023] [Accepted: 08/08/2023] [Indexed: 09/16/2023]
Abstract
Small-molecule chemical "probes" complement the use of molecular biology techniques to explore, validate, and generate hypotheses on the function of proteins in diseases such as cancer. Unfortunately, the poor selection and use of small-molecule reagents can lead to incorrect conclusions. Here, we illustrate examples of poor chemical tools and suggest best practices for the selection, validation, and use of high-quality chemical probes in cancer research. We also note the complexity associated with tools for novel drug modalities, exemplified by protein degraders, and provide advice and resources to facilitate the independent identification of appropriate small-molecule probes by researchers. SIGNIFICANCE Validation of biological targets and pathways will be aided by a shared understanding of the criteria of potency, selectivity, and target engagement associated with small-molecule reagents ("chemical probes") that enable that work. Interdisciplinary collaboration between cancer biologists, medicinal chemists, and chemical biologists and the awareness of available resources will reduce misleading data generation and interpretation, strengthen data robustness, and improve productivity in academic and industrial research.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Mary M Mader
- Indiana Biosciences Research Institute, Indianapolis, Indiana
- Chemistry in Cancer Research (CICR) Working Group of the American Association for Cancer Research, Philadelphia, Pennsylvania
| | - Joachim Rudolph
- Chemistry in Cancer Research (CICR) Working Group of the American Association for Cancer Research, Philadelphia, Pennsylvania
- Genentech, Inc., South San Francisco, California
| | - Ingo V Hartung
- Chemistry in Cancer Research (CICR) Working Group of the American Association for Cancer Research, Philadelphia, Pennsylvania
- Merck Healthcare KGaA, Darmstadt, Germany
| | - David Uehling
- Chemistry in Cancer Research (CICR) Working Group of the American Association for Cancer Research, Philadelphia, Pennsylvania
- Ontario Institute for Cancer Research, Toronto, Canada
| | - Paul Workman
- Chemistry in Cancer Research (CICR) Working Group of the American Association for Cancer Research, Philadelphia, Pennsylvania
- Centre for Cancer Drug Discovery, The Institute of Cancer Research (London), Sutton, United Kingdom
- Chemical Probes Portal (www.chemicalprobes.org)
| | - William Zuercher
- Chemistry in Cancer Research (CICR) Working Group of the American Association for Cancer Research, Philadelphia, Pennsylvania
- F. Hoffmann-La Roche Ltd., Basel, Switzerland
| |
Collapse
|
5
|
Pratap Reddy Gajulapalli V. Development of Kinase-Centric Drugs: A Computational Perspective. ChemMedChem 2023; 18:e202200693. [PMID: 37442809 DOI: 10.1002/cmdc.202200693] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/20/2022] [Revised: 07/12/2023] [Accepted: 07/12/2023] [Indexed: 07/15/2023]
Abstract
Kinases are prominent drug targets in the pharmaceutical and research community due to their involvement in signal transduction, physiological responses, and upon dysregulation, in diseases such as cancer, neurological and autoimmune disorders. Several FDA-approved small-molecule drugs have been developed to combat human diseases since Gleevec was approved for the treatment of chronic myelogenous leukemia. Kinases were considered "undruggable" in the beginning. Several FDA-approved small-molecule drugs have become available in recent years. Most of these drugs target ATP-binding sites, but a few target allosteric sites. Among kinases that belong to the same family, the catalytic domain shows high structural and sequence conservation. Inhibitors of ATP-binding sites can cause off-target binding. Because members of the same family have similar sequences and structural patterns, often complex relationships between kinases and inhibitors are observed. To design and develop drugs with desired selectivity, it is essential to understand the target selectivity for kinase inhibitors. To create new inhibitors with the desired selectivity, several experimental methods have been designed to profile the kinase selectivity of small molecules. Experimental approaches are often expensive, laborious, time-consuming, and limited by the available kinases. Researchers have used computational methodologies to address these limitations in the design and development of effective therapeutics. Many computational methods have been developed over the last few decades, either to complement experimental findings or to forecast kinase inhibitor activity and selectivity. The purpose of this review is to provide insight into recent advances in theoretical/computational approaches for the design of new kinase inhibitors with the desired selectivity and optimization of existing inhibitors.
Collapse
|
6
|
Němec V, Khirsariya P, Janovská P, Moyano PM, Maier L, Procházková P, Kebková P, Gybel' T, Berger BT, Chaikuad A, Reinecke M, Kuster B, Knapp S, Bryja V, Paruch K. Discovery of Potent and Exquisitely Selective Inhibitors of Kinase CK1 with Tunable Isoform Selectivity. Angew Chem Int Ed Engl 2023; 62:e202217532. [PMID: 36625768 DOI: 10.1002/anie.202217532] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/28/2022] [Revised: 01/09/2023] [Accepted: 01/10/2023] [Indexed: 01/11/2023]
Abstract
Casein kinases 1 (CK1) are key signaling molecules that have emerged recently as attractive therapeutic targets in particular for the treatment of hematological malignancies. Herein, we report the identification of a new class of potent and highly selective inhibitors of CK1α, δ and ϵ. Based on their optimal in vitro and in vivo profiles and their exclusive selectivity, MU1250, MU1500 and MU1742 were selected as quality chemical probes for those CK1 isoforms. At proper concentrations, MU1250 and MU1500 allow for specific targeting of CK1δ or dual inhibition of CK1δ/ϵ in cells. The compound MU1742 also efficiently inhibits CK1α and, to our knowledge, represents the first potent and highly selective inhibitor of this enzyme. In addition, we demonstrate that the central 1H-pyrrolo[2,3-b]pyridine-imidazole pharmacophore can be used as the basis of highly selective inhibitors of other therapeutically relevant protein kinases, e.g. p38α, as exemplified by the compound MU1299.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Václav Němec
- Department of Chemistry, Faculty of Science, Masaryk University, Kamenice 5, Brno, 625 00, Czech Republic.,International Clinical Research Centre, St. Anne's University Hospital, Pekařská 53, Brno, 656 91, Czech Republic
| | - Prashant Khirsariya
- Department of Chemistry, Faculty of Science, Masaryk University, Kamenice 5, Brno, 625 00, Czech Republic.,International Clinical Research Centre, St. Anne's University Hospital, Pekařská 53, Brno, 656 91, Czech Republic
| | - Pavlína Janovská
- Department of Experimental Biology, Faculty of Science, Masaryk University, Kamenice 5, Brno, 625 00, Czech Republic
| | - Paula Martín Moyano
- Department of Chemistry, Faculty of Science, Masaryk University, Kamenice 5, Brno, 625 00, Czech Republic
| | - Lukáš Maier
- Department of Chemistry, Faculty of Science, Masaryk University, Kamenice 5, Brno, 625 00, Czech Republic.,International Clinical Research Centre, St. Anne's University Hospital, Pekařská 53, Brno, 656 91, Czech Republic
| | - Petra Procházková
- Department of Experimental Biology, Faculty of Science, Masaryk University, Kamenice 5, Brno, 625 00, Czech Republic
| | - Pavlína Kebková
- Department of Experimental Biology, Faculty of Science, Masaryk University, Kamenice 5, Brno, 625 00, Czech Republic
| | - Tomáš Gybel'
- Department of Experimental Biology, Faculty of Science, Masaryk University, Kamenice 5, Brno, 625 00, Czech Republic
| | - Benedict-Tilman Berger
- Institute for Pharmaceutical Chemistry, Structural Genomics Consortium, Johann Wolfgang Goethe-University, Max-von-Laue-Strasse 15, 60438, Frankfurt am Main, Germany
| | - Apirat Chaikuad
- Institute for Pharmaceutical Chemistry, Structural Genomics Consortium, Johann Wolfgang Goethe-University, Max-von-Laue-Strasse 15, 60438, Frankfurt am Main, Germany
| | - Maria Reinecke
- Chair of Proteomics and Bioanalytics, TUM School of Life Sciences, Technical University of Munich, 85354, Freising, Germany
| | - Bernhard Kuster
- Chair of Proteomics and Bioanalytics, TUM School of Life Sciences, Technical University of Munich, 85354, Freising, Germany.,Bavarian Center for Biomolecular Mass Spectrometry (BayBioMS), Technical University of Munich, 85354, Freising, Germany
| | - Stefan Knapp
- Institute for Pharmaceutical Chemistry, Structural Genomics Consortium, Johann Wolfgang Goethe-University, Max-von-Laue-Strasse 15, 60438, Frankfurt am Main, Germany
| | - Vítězslav Bryja
- Department of Experimental Biology, Faculty of Science, Masaryk University, Kamenice 5, Brno, 625 00, Czech Republic
| | - Kamil Paruch
- Department of Chemistry, Faculty of Science, Masaryk University, Kamenice 5, Brno, 625 00, Czech Republic.,International Clinical Research Centre, St. Anne's University Hospital, Pekařská 53, Brno, 656 91, Czech Republic
| |
Collapse
|
7
|
Xin X, Wang Y, Zhang L, Zhang D, Sha L, Zhu Z, Huang X, Mao W, Zhang J. Development and therapeutic potential of adaptor-associated kinase 1 inhibitors in human multifaceted diseases. Eur J Med Chem 2023; 248:115102. [PMID: 36640459 DOI: 10.1016/j.ejmech.2023.115102] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/10/2022] [Revised: 01/06/2023] [Accepted: 01/06/2023] [Indexed: 01/09/2023]
Abstract
Adaptor-Associated Kinase 1 (AAK1), a Ser/Thr protein kinase, responsible for regulating clathrin-mediated endocytosis, is ubiquitous in the central nervous system (CNS). AAK1 plays an important role in neuropathic pain and a variety of other human diseases, including viral invasion, Alzheimer's disease, Parkinson's syndrome, etc. Therefore, targeting AAK1 is a promising therapeutic strategy. However, although small molecule AAK1 inhibitors have been vigorously developed, only BMS-986176/LX-9211 has entered clinical trials. Simultaneously, new small molecule inhibitors, including BMS-911172 and LP-935509, exhibited excellent druggability. This review elaborates on the structure, biological function, and disease relevance of AAK1. We emphatically analyze the structure-activity relationships (SARs) of small molecule AAK1 inhibitors based on different binding modalities and discuss prospective strategies to provide insights into novel AAK1 therapeutic agents for clinical practice.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Xin Xin
- Joint Research Institution of Altitude Health, State Key Laboratory of Biotherapy and Cancer Center, Department of Respiratory and Critical Care Medicine, Institute of Respiratory Health, National Clinical Research Center for Geriatrics, West China Hospital, Sichuan University, Chengdu, 610041, Sichuan, China
| | - Yue Wang
- Leling Traditional Chinese Medicine Hospital, Leling, 253600, Shandong, China
| | - Lele Zhang
- Joint Research Institution of Altitude Health, State Key Laboratory of Biotherapy and Cancer Center, Department of Respiratory and Critical Care Medicine, Institute of Respiratory Health, National Clinical Research Center for Geriatrics, West China Hospital, Sichuan University, Chengdu, 610041, Sichuan, China
| | - Dan Zhang
- Joint Research Institution of Altitude Health, State Key Laboratory of Biotherapy and Cancer Center, Department of Respiratory and Critical Care Medicine, Institute of Respiratory Health, National Clinical Research Center for Geriatrics, West China Hospital, Sichuan University, Chengdu, 610041, Sichuan, China
| | - Leihao Sha
- Joint Research Institution of Altitude Health, State Key Laboratory of Biotherapy and Cancer Center, Department of Respiratory and Critical Care Medicine, Institute of Respiratory Health, National Clinical Research Center for Geriatrics, West China Hospital, Sichuan University, Chengdu, 610041, Sichuan, China
| | - Ziyu Zhu
- Joint Research Institution of Altitude Health, State Key Laboratory of Biotherapy and Cancer Center, Department of Respiratory and Critical Care Medicine, Institute of Respiratory Health, National Clinical Research Center for Geriatrics, West China Hospital, Sichuan University, Chengdu, 610041, Sichuan, China
| | - Xiaoyi Huang
- Joint Research Institution of Altitude Health, State Key Laboratory of Biotherapy and Cancer Center, Department of Respiratory and Critical Care Medicine, Institute of Respiratory Health, National Clinical Research Center for Geriatrics, West China Hospital, Sichuan University, Chengdu, 610041, Sichuan, China
| | - Wuyu Mao
- Joint Research Institution of Altitude Health, State Key Laboratory of Biotherapy and Cancer Center, Department of Respiratory and Critical Care Medicine, Institute of Respiratory Health, National Clinical Research Center for Geriatrics, West China Hospital, Sichuan University, Chengdu, 610041, Sichuan, China.
| | - Jifa Zhang
- Joint Research Institution of Altitude Health, State Key Laboratory of Biotherapy and Cancer Center, Department of Respiratory and Critical Care Medicine, Institute of Respiratory Health, National Clinical Research Center for Geriatrics, West China Hospital, Sichuan University, Chengdu, 610041, Sichuan, China.
| |
Collapse
|
8
|
Small-molecule inhibition of the archetypal UbiB protein COQ8. Nat Chem Biol 2023; 19:230-238. [PMID: 36302899 PMCID: PMC9898131 DOI: 10.1038/s41589-022-01168-3] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/22/2022] [Accepted: 09/08/2022] [Indexed: 02/06/2023]
Abstract
Small-molecule tools have enabled mechanistic investigations and therapeutic targeting of the protein kinase-like (PKL) superfamily. However, such tools are still lacking for many PKL members, including the highly conserved and disease-related UbiB family. Here, we sought to develop and characterize an inhibitor for the archetypal UbiB member COQ8, whose function is essential for coenzyme Q (CoQ) biosynthesis. Guided by crystallography, activity assays and cellular CoQ measurements, we repurposed the 4-anilinoquinoline scaffold to selectively inhibit human COQ8A in cells. Our chemical tool promises to lend mechanistic insights into the activities of these widespread and understudied proteins and to offer potential therapeutic strategies for human diseases connected to their dysfunction.
Collapse
|
9
|
Systematic Exploration of Privileged Warheads for Covalent Kinase Drug Discovery. Pharmaceuticals (Basel) 2022; 15:ph15111322. [PMID: 36355497 PMCID: PMC9695834 DOI: 10.3390/ph15111322] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/12/2022] [Revised: 10/14/2022] [Accepted: 10/21/2022] [Indexed: 12/01/2022] Open
Abstract
Kinase-targeted drug discovery for cancer therapy has advanced significantly in the last three decades. Currently, diverse kinase inhibitors or degraders have been reported, such as allosteric inhibitors, covalent inhibitors, macrocyclic inhibitors, and PROTAC degraders. Out of these, covalent kinase inhibitors (CKIs) have been attracting attention due to their enhanced selectivity and exceptionally strong affinity. Eight covalent kinase drugs have been FDA-approved thus far. Here, we review current developments in CKIs. We explore the characteristics of the CKIs: the features of nucleophilic amino acids and the preferences of electrophilic warheads. We provide systematic insights into privileged warheads for repurposing to other kinase targets. Finally, we discuss trends in CKI development across the whole proteome.
Collapse
|
10
|
Farag AK, Ahn BS, Yoo JS, Karam R, Roh EJ. Design, synthesis, and biological evaluation of pseudo-bicyclic pyrimidine-based compounds as potential EGFR inhibitors. Bioorg Chem 2022; 126:105918. [PMID: 35696765 DOI: 10.1016/j.bioorg.2022.105918] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/09/2022] [Revised: 05/01/2022] [Accepted: 05/27/2022] [Indexed: 11/29/2022]
Abstract
Cancer is one of the most dangerous diseases harvesting millions of lives every year globally, which mandates the development of new therapies. In this report, we designed and synthesized a novel series of compounds based on the structure of lapatinib and AF8c, a compound we developed and reported previously, to target EGFR kinase. The series was assayed against a panel of 60 cancer cell lines at the National Cancer Institute (NCI). Compounds 4a, 4f, 4 g, and 4 l showed high efficacy against melanoma, colon, and blood cancers, with 4a being the most effective. The evaluation of the potency of 4a against the 60 cell lines in a five-dose assay revealed a significant potency compared to lapatinib against melanoma, colon, and blood cancers. In vitro enzyme assay over 30 kinases showed significant potency against EGFR and high selectivity to EGFR among the tested kinases. A molecular modeling study of 4a and lapatinib inside the pockets of EGFR revealed that both compounds bind strongly inside the ATP-binding pocket of the EGFR kinase domain. Therefore, we present 4a as a novel EGFR kinase inhibitor with potent in vitro cellular activity against diverse types of cancer cells.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Ahmed Karam Farag
- Manufacturing department, Curachem Inc, Chungcheongbuk-do 28161, Republic of Korea.
| | - Byung Sun Ahn
- Chemical and Biological Integrative Research Center, Korea Institute of Science and Technology (KIST), Seoul, Republic of Korea
| | - Je Sik Yoo
- Chemical and Biological Integrative Research Center, Korea Institute of Science and Technology (KIST), Seoul, Republic of Korea; Division of Bio-Medical Science and Technology, KIST School, University of Science and Technology (UST), Seoul, Republic of Korea
| | - Reham Karam
- Virology department, Faculty of veterinary medicine, Mansoura University, Dakahlia, Egypt
| | - Eun Joo Roh
- Chemical and Biological Integrative Research Center, Korea Institute of Science and Technology (KIST), Seoul, Republic of Korea; Division of Bio-Medical Science and Technology, KIST School, University of Science and Technology (UST), Seoul, Republic of Korea.
| |
Collapse
|
11
|
Call for Manuscripts for ACS Pharmacology & Translational Science Review Series on Recommended Tool Compounds. ACS PHARMACOLOGY & TRANSLATIONAL SCIENCE 2022; 5:516-517. [DOI: 10.1021/acsptsci.2c00135] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/29/2022]
|
12
|
M Serafim RA, da Silva Santiago A, Schwalm MP, Hu Z, Dos Reis CV, Takarada JE, Mezzomo P, Massirer KB, Kudolo M, Gerstenecker S, Chaikuad A, Zender L, Knapp S, Laufer S, Couñago RM, Gehringer M. Development of the First Covalent Monopolar Spindle Kinase 1 (MPS1/TTK) Inhibitor. J Med Chem 2022; 65:3173-3192. [PMID: 35167750 DOI: 10.1021/acs.jmedchem.1c01165] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/29/2023]
Abstract
Monopolar spindle kinase 1 (MPS1/TTK) is a key element of the mitotic checkpoint and clinically evaluated as a target in the treatment of aggressive tumors such as triple-negative breast cancer. While long drug-target residence times have been suggested to be beneficial in the context of therapeutic MPS1 inhibition, no irreversible inhibitors have been reported. Here we present the design and characterization of the first irreversible covalent MPS1 inhibitor, RMS-07, targeting a poorly conserved cysteine in the kinase's hinge region. RMS-07 shows potent MPS1 inhibitory activity and selectivity against all protein kinases with an equivalent cysteine but also in a broader kinase panel. We demonstrate potent cellular target engagement and pronounced activity against various cancer cell lines. The covalent binding mode was validated by mass spectrometry and an X-ray crystal structure. This proof of MPS1 covalent ligandability may open new avenues for the design of MPS1-specific chemical probes or drugs.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Ricardo A M Serafim
- Department of Pharmaceutical/Medicinal Chemistry, Eberhard Karls University Tübingen, Auf der Morgenstelle 8, 72076 Tübingen, Germany.,Centro de Química Medicinal (CQMED), Centro de Biologia Molecular e Engenharia Genética (CBMEG), Universidade Estadual de Campinas (UNICAMP), Campinas, SP 13083-875, Brazil.,Structural Genomics Consortium, Departamento de Genética e Evolução, Instituto de Biologia, UNICAMP, Campinas, SP 13083-886, Brazil
| | - André da Silva Santiago
- Centro de Química Medicinal (CQMED), Centro de Biologia Molecular e Engenharia Genética (CBMEG), Universidade Estadual de Campinas (UNICAMP), Campinas, SP 13083-875, Brazil.,Structural Genomics Consortium, Departamento de Genética e Evolução, Instituto de Biologia, UNICAMP, Campinas, SP 13083-886, Brazil
| | - Martin P Schwalm
- Structural Genomics Consortium, Goethe University Frankfurt, Buchmann Institute for Molecular Life Sciences, Max-von-Laue-Straße 15, 60438 Frankfurt am Main, Germany.,Institute of Pharmaceutical Chemistry, Goethe University Frankfurt, Buchmann Institute for Molecular Life Sciences, Max-von-Laue-Straße 9, 60438 Frankfurt am Main, Germany
| | - Zexi Hu
- Department of Medical Oncology and Pneumology (Internal Medicine VIII), University Hospital Tübingen, 72076 Tübingen, Germany.,Cluster of Excellence iFIT (EXC 2180) 'Image-Guided & Functionally Instructed Tumor Therapies', University of Tübingen, 72076 Tübingen, Germany
| | - Caio V Dos Reis
- Centro de Química Medicinal (CQMED), Centro de Biologia Molecular e Engenharia Genética (CBMEG), Universidade Estadual de Campinas (UNICAMP), Campinas, SP 13083-875, Brazil.,Structural Genomics Consortium, Departamento de Genética e Evolução, Instituto de Biologia, UNICAMP, Campinas, SP 13083-886, Brazil
| | - Jessica E Takarada
- Centro de Química Medicinal (CQMED), Centro de Biologia Molecular e Engenharia Genética (CBMEG), Universidade Estadual de Campinas (UNICAMP), Campinas, SP 13083-875, Brazil.,Structural Genomics Consortium, Departamento de Genética e Evolução, Instituto de Biologia, UNICAMP, Campinas, SP 13083-886, Brazil
| | - Priscila Mezzomo
- Centro de Química Medicinal (CQMED), Centro de Biologia Molecular e Engenharia Genética (CBMEG), Universidade Estadual de Campinas (UNICAMP), Campinas, SP 13083-875, Brazil.,Structural Genomics Consortium, Departamento de Genética e Evolução, Instituto de Biologia, UNICAMP, Campinas, SP 13083-886, Brazil
| | - Katlin B Massirer
- Centro de Química Medicinal (CQMED), Centro de Biologia Molecular e Engenharia Genética (CBMEG), Universidade Estadual de Campinas (UNICAMP), Campinas, SP 13083-875, Brazil.,Structural Genomics Consortium, Departamento de Genética e Evolução, Instituto de Biologia, UNICAMP, Campinas, SP 13083-886, Brazil
| | - Mark Kudolo
- Department of Pharmaceutical/Medicinal Chemistry, Eberhard Karls University Tübingen, Auf der Morgenstelle 8, 72076 Tübingen, Germany
| | - Stefan Gerstenecker
- Department of Pharmaceutical/Medicinal Chemistry, Eberhard Karls University Tübingen, Auf der Morgenstelle 8, 72076 Tübingen, Germany
| | - Apirat Chaikuad
- Structural Genomics Consortium, Goethe University Frankfurt, Buchmann Institute for Molecular Life Sciences, Max-von-Laue-Straße 15, 60438 Frankfurt am Main, Germany.,Institute of Pharmaceutical Chemistry, Goethe University Frankfurt, Buchmann Institute for Molecular Life Sciences, Max-von-Laue-Straße 9, 60438 Frankfurt am Main, Germany
| | - Lars Zender
- Department of Medical Oncology and Pneumology (Internal Medicine VIII), University Hospital Tübingen, 72076 Tübingen, Germany.,Cluster of Excellence iFIT (EXC 2180) 'Image-Guided & Functionally Instructed Tumor Therapies', University of Tübingen, 72076 Tübingen, Germany.,German Consortium for Translational Cancer Research (DKTK), Partner Site Tübingen, German Cancer Research Center (DKFZ), 72076 Tübingen, Germany
| | - Stefan Knapp
- Structural Genomics Consortium, Goethe University Frankfurt, Buchmann Institute for Molecular Life Sciences, Max-von-Laue-Straße 15, 60438 Frankfurt am Main, Germany.,Institute of Pharmaceutical Chemistry, Goethe University Frankfurt, Buchmann Institute for Molecular Life Sciences, Max-von-Laue-Straße 9, 60438 Frankfurt am Main, Germany.,Frankfurt Cancer Institute (FCI) and German Translational Cancer Network (DKTK) Site Frankfurt/Mainz, 60596 Frankfurt am Main, Germany
| | - Stefan Laufer
- Department of Pharmaceutical/Medicinal Chemistry, Eberhard Karls University Tübingen, Auf der Morgenstelle 8, 72076 Tübingen, Germany.,Cluster of Excellence iFIT (EXC 2180) 'Image-Guided & Functionally Instructed Tumor Therapies', University of Tübingen, 72076 Tübingen, Germany.,Tübingen Center for Academic Drug Discovery, Auf der Morgenstelle 8, 72076 Tübingen, Germany
| | - Rafael M Couñago
- Centro de Química Medicinal (CQMED), Centro de Biologia Molecular e Engenharia Genética (CBMEG), Universidade Estadual de Campinas (UNICAMP), Campinas, SP 13083-875, Brazil.,Structural Genomics Consortium, Departamento de Genética e Evolução, Instituto de Biologia, UNICAMP, Campinas, SP 13083-886, Brazil
| | - Matthias Gehringer
- Department of Pharmaceutical/Medicinal Chemistry, Eberhard Karls University Tübingen, Auf der Morgenstelle 8, 72076 Tübingen, Germany.,Cluster of Excellence iFIT (EXC 2180) 'Image-Guided & Functionally Instructed Tumor Therapies', University of Tübingen, 72076 Tübingen, Germany
| |
Collapse
|
13
|
Gerstenecker S, Haarer L, Schröder M, Kudolo M, Schwalm MP, Wydra V, Serafim RAM, Chaikuad A, Knapp S, Laufer S, Gehringer M. Discovery of a Potent and Highly Isoform-Selective Inhibitor of the Neglected Ribosomal Protein S6 Kinase Beta 2 (S6K2). Cancers (Basel) 2021; 13:cancers13205133. [PMID: 34680283 PMCID: PMC8534050 DOI: 10.3390/cancers13205133] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/30/2021] [Revised: 10/04/2021] [Accepted: 10/08/2021] [Indexed: 12/27/2022] Open
Abstract
Simple Summary The two human p70 ribosomal S6 kinases, S6K1 and S6K2, have been associated with a variety of cellular processes and human pathologies, especially cancer. Thus far, only S6K1 was thoroughly studied and selectively addressed by small molecule inhibitors. Despite growing evidence suggesting S6K2 as a promising anticancer target, this isoform has been severely neglected, which can partly be attributed to the lack of isoform-selective inhibitors to study its function. By exploiting a cysteine residue exclusive to S6K2, we were able to generate the first known isoform-selective S6K2 inhibitor. Besides its excellent selectivity against S6K1 and other human kinases, the compound showed weak intrinsic reactivity and promising in vitro metabolic stability. Our proof-of-concept study provides a basis for the development of high quality S6K2 chemical probes to validate this kinase as a target for therapeutic interventions. Abstract The ribosomal protein S6 kinase beta 2 (S6K2) is thought to play an important role in malignant cell proliferation, but is understudied compared to its closely related homolog S6 kinase beta 1 (S6K1). To better understand the biological function of S6K2, chemical probes are needed, but the high similarity between S6K2 and S6K1 makes it challenging to selectively address S6K2 with small molecules. We were able to design the first potent and highly isoform-specific S6K2 inhibitor from a known S6K1-selective inhibitor, which was merged with a covalent inhibitor engaging a cysteine located in the hinge region in the fibroblast growth factor receptor kinase (FGFR) 4 via a nucleophilic aromatic substitution (SNAr) reaction. The title compound shows a high selectivity over kinases with an equivalently positioned cysteine, as well as in a larger kinase panel. A good stability towards glutathione and Nα-acetyl lysine indicates a non-promiscuous reactivity pattern. Thus, the title compound represents an important step towards a high-quality chemical probe to study S6K2-specific signaling.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Stefan Gerstenecker
- Department of Pharmaceutical/Medicinal Chemistry, Institute of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Eberhard Karls University Tübingen, 72076 Tübingen, Germany; (S.G.); (L.H.); (M.K.); (V.W.); (R.A.M.S.); (S.L.)
| | - Lisa Haarer
- Department of Pharmaceutical/Medicinal Chemistry, Institute of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Eberhard Karls University Tübingen, 72076 Tübingen, Germany; (S.G.); (L.H.); (M.K.); (V.W.); (R.A.M.S.); (S.L.)
| | - Martin Schröder
- Department of Biochemistry, Chemistry and Pharmacy, Institute for Pharmaceutical Chemistry, Goethe University Frankfurt, 60438 Frankfurt, Germany; (M.S.); (M.P.S.); (A.C.); (S.K.)
- Structural Genomics Consortium, Buchmann Institute for Molecular Life Sciences, Goethe University Frankfurt, 60438 Frankfurt, Germany
| | - Mark Kudolo
- Department of Pharmaceutical/Medicinal Chemistry, Institute of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Eberhard Karls University Tübingen, 72076 Tübingen, Germany; (S.G.); (L.H.); (M.K.); (V.W.); (R.A.M.S.); (S.L.)
| | - Martin P. Schwalm
- Department of Biochemistry, Chemistry and Pharmacy, Institute for Pharmaceutical Chemistry, Goethe University Frankfurt, 60438 Frankfurt, Germany; (M.S.); (M.P.S.); (A.C.); (S.K.)
- Structural Genomics Consortium, Buchmann Institute for Molecular Life Sciences, Goethe University Frankfurt, 60438 Frankfurt, Germany
| | - Valentin Wydra
- Department of Pharmaceutical/Medicinal Chemistry, Institute of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Eberhard Karls University Tübingen, 72076 Tübingen, Germany; (S.G.); (L.H.); (M.K.); (V.W.); (R.A.M.S.); (S.L.)
| | - Ricardo A. M. Serafim
- Department of Pharmaceutical/Medicinal Chemistry, Institute of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Eberhard Karls University Tübingen, 72076 Tübingen, Germany; (S.G.); (L.H.); (M.K.); (V.W.); (R.A.M.S.); (S.L.)
| | - Apirat Chaikuad
- Department of Biochemistry, Chemistry and Pharmacy, Institute for Pharmaceutical Chemistry, Goethe University Frankfurt, 60438 Frankfurt, Germany; (M.S.); (M.P.S.); (A.C.); (S.K.)
- Structural Genomics Consortium, Buchmann Institute for Molecular Life Sciences, Goethe University Frankfurt, 60438 Frankfurt, Germany
| | - Stefan Knapp
- Department of Biochemistry, Chemistry and Pharmacy, Institute for Pharmaceutical Chemistry, Goethe University Frankfurt, 60438 Frankfurt, Germany; (M.S.); (M.P.S.); (A.C.); (S.K.)
- Structural Genomics Consortium, Buchmann Institute for Molecular Life Sciences, Goethe University Frankfurt, 60438 Frankfurt, Germany
- German Translational Cancer Network (DKTK) Site Frankfurt/Mainz, Frankfurt Cancer Institute (FCI), 60596 Frankfurt, Germany
| | - Stefan Laufer
- Department of Pharmaceutical/Medicinal Chemistry, Institute of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Eberhard Karls University Tübingen, 72076 Tübingen, Germany; (S.G.); (L.H.); (M.K.); (V.W.); (R.A.M.S.); (S.L.)
- Cluster of Excellence iFIT (EXC 2180) ‘Image-Guided & Functionally Instructed Tumor Therapies’, Eberhard Karls University Tübingen, 72076 Tübingen, Germany
- Tübingen Center for Academic Drug Discovery, Eberhard Karls University Tübingen, 72076 Tübingen, Germany
| | - Matthias Gehringer
- Department of Pharmaceutical/Medicinal Chemistry, Institute of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Eberhard Karls University Tübingen, 72076 Tübingen, Germany; (S.G.); (L.H.); (M.K.); (V.W.); (R.A.M.S.); (S.L.)
- Cluster of Excellence iFIT (EXC 2180) ‘Image-Guided & Functionally Instructed Tumor Therapies’, Eberhard Karls University Tübingen, 72076 Tübingen, Germany
- Correspondence: ; Tel.: +49-7071-29-74582
| |
Collapse
|