1
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Hirst DJ, Bamborough P, Al-Mahdi N, Angell DC, Barnett HA, Baxter A, Bit RA, Brown JA, Chung CW, Craggs PD, Davis RP, Demont EH, Ferrie A, Gordon LJ, Harada I, Ho TCT, Holyer ID, Hooper-Greenhill E, Jones KL, Lindon MJ, Lovatt C, Lugo D, Maller C, McGonagle G, Messenger C, Mitchell DJ, Pascoe DD, Patel VK, Patten C, Poole DL, Shah RR, Rioja I, Stafford KAJ, Tape D, Taylor S, Theodoulou NH, Tomlinson L, Wall ID, Wellaway CR, White G, Prinjha RK, Humphreys PG. Structure- and Property-Based Optimization of Efficient Pan-Bromodomain and Extra Terminal Inhibitors to Identify Oral and Intravenous Candidate I-BET787. J Med Chem 2024; 67:10464-10489. [PMID: 38866424 DOI: 10.1021/acs.jmedchem.4c00959] [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: 06/14/2024]
Abstract
The bromodomain and extra terminal (BET) family of bromodomain-containing proteins are important epigenetic regulators that elicit their effect through binding histone tail N-acetyl lysine (KAc) post-translational modifications. Recognition of such markers has been implicated in a range of oncology and immune diseases and, as such, small-molecule inhibition of the BET family bromodomain-KAc protein-protein interaction has received significant interest as a therapeutic strategy, with several potential medicines under clinical evaluation. This work describes the structure- and property-based optimization of a ligand and lipophilic efficient pan-BET bromodomain inhibitor series to deliver candidate I-BET787 (70) that demonstrates efficacy in a mouse model of inflammation and suitable properties for both oral and intravenous (IV) administration. This focused two-phase explore-exploit medicinal chemistry effort delivered the candidate molecule in 3 months with less than 100 final compounds synthesized.
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Affiliation(s)
- David J Hirst
- GSK Medicines Research Centre, Stevenage, Hertfordshire SG1 2NY, U.K
| | - Paul Bamborough
- GSK Medicines Research Centre, Stevenage, Hertfordshire SG1 2NY, U.K
| | - Niam Al-Mahdi
- GSK Medicines Research Centre, Stevenage, Hertfordshire SG1 2NY, U.K
| | - Davina C Angell
- GSK Medicines Research Centre, Stevenage, Hertfordshire SG1 2NY, U.K
| | - Heather A Barnett
- GSK Medicines Research Centre, Stevenage, Hertfordshire SG1 2NY, U.K
| | - Andrew Baxter
- GSK Medicines Research Centre, Stevenage, Hertfordshire SG1 2NY, U.K
| | - Rino A Bit
- GSK Medicines Research Centre, Stevenage, Hertfordshire SG1 2NY, U.K
| | - Jack A Brown
- GSK Medicines Research Centre, Stevenage, Hertfordshire SG1 2NY, U.K
| | - Chun-Wa Chung
- GSK Medicines Research Centre, Stevenage, Hertfordshire SG1 2NY, U.K
| | - Peter D Craggs
- GSK Medicines Research Centre, Stevenage, Hertfordshire SG1 2NY, U.K
| | - Robert P Davis
- GSK Medicines Research Centre, Stevenage, Hertfordshire SG1 2NY, U.K
| | - Emmanuel H Demont
- GSK Medicines Research Centre, Stevenage, Hertfordshire SG1 2NY, U.K
| | - Alan Ferrie
- GSK Medicines Research Centre, Stevenage, Hertfordshire SG1 2NY, U.K
| | - Laurie J Gordon
- GSK Medicines Research Centre, Stevenage, Hertfordshire SG1 2NY, U.K
| | - Isobel Harada
- GSK Medicines Research Centre, Stevenage, Hertfordshire SG1 2NY, U.K
| | - Tim C T Ho
- GSK Medicines Research Centre, Stevenage, Hertfordshire SG1 2NY, U.K
| | - Ian D Holyer
- GSK Medicines Research Centre, Stevenage, Hertfordshire SG1 2NY, U.K
| | | | - Katherine L Jones
- GSK Medicines Research Centre, Stevenage, Hertfordshire SG1 2NY, U.K
| | - Matthew J Lindon
- GSK Medicines Research Centre, Stevenage, Hertfordshire SG1 2NY, U.K
| | - Cerys Lovatt
- GSK Medicines Research Centre, Stevenage, Hertfordshire SG1 2NY, U.K
| | - David Lugo
- GSK Medicines Research Centre, Stevenage, Hertfordshire SG1 2NY, U.K
| | - Claire Maller
- GSK Medicines Research Centre, Stevenage, Hertfordshire SG1 2NY, U.K
| | - Grant McGonagle
- GSK Medicines Research Centre, Stevenage, Hertfordshire SG1 2NY, U.K
| | - Cassie Messenger
- GSK Medicines Research Centre, Stevenage, Hertfordshire SG1 2NY, U.K
| | - Darren J Mitchell
- GSK Medicines Research Centre, Stevenage, Hertfordshire SG1 2NY, U.K
| | - David D Pascoe
- GSK Medicines Research Centre, Stevenage, Hertfordshire SG1 2NY, U.K
| | | | | | - Darren L Poole
- GSK Medicines Research Centre, Stevenage, Hertfordshire SG1 2NY, U.K
| | - Rishi R Shah
- GSK Medicines Research Centre, Stevenage, Hertfordshire SG1 2NY, U.K
| | - Inmaculada Rioja
- GSK Medicines Research Centre, Stevenage, Hertfordshire SG1 2NY, U.K
| | | | - Daniel Tape
- GSK Medicines Research Centre, Stevenage, Hertfordshire SG1 2NY, U.K
| | - Simon Taylor
- GSK Medicines Research Centre, Stevenage, Hertfordshire SG1 2NY, U.K
| | | | - Laura Tomlinson
- GSK Medicines Research Centre, Stevenage, Hertfordshire SG1 2NY, U.K
| | - Ian D Wall
- GSK Medicines Research Centre, Stevenage, Hertfordshire SG1 2NY, U.K
| | | | - Gemma White
- GSK Medicines Research Centre, Stevenage, Hertfordshire SG1 2NY, U.K
| | - Rab K Prinjha
- GSK Medicines Research Centre, Stevenage, Hertfordshire SG1 2NY, U.K
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2
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Wu T, Chen Y, You Q, Jiang Z, Chen X. Targeting bromodomian-containing protein 8 (BRD8): An advanced tool to interrogate BRD8. Eur J Med Chem 2024; 268:116271. [PMID: 38401187 DOI: 10.1016/j.ejmech.2024.116271] [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: 01/11/2024] [Revised: 02/07/2024] [Accepted: 02/19/2024] [Indexed: 02/26/2024]
Abstract
Epigenetic modifications play crucial roles in physiological processes, including cell differentiation, proliferation, and death. Bromodomain/Brd-containing proteins (BCPs) regulate abnormal gene expression in various diseases by recognizing the lysine-ε-N-acetylated residues (KAc) or by acting as transcriptional co-activators. Small molecule inhibitors targeting BCPs offer an attractive strategy for modulating aberrant gene expression. Besides the extensive research on the bromodomain and extra-terminal (BET) domain family proteins, the non-BET proteins have gained increasing attention. Bromodomain containing protein 8 (BRD8), a reader of KAc and co-activator of nuclear receptors (NRs), plays a key role in various cancers. This review provides a comprehensive analysis of the structure, disease-related functions, and inhibitor development of BRD8. Opportunities and challenges for future studies targeting BRD8 in disease treatment are discussed.
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Affiliation(s)
- Tingting Wu
- Jiang Su Key Laboratory of Drug Design and Optimization and State Key Laboratory of Natural Medicines, China Pharmaceutical University, Nanjing, 210009, China; Department of Medicinal Chemistry, School of Pharmacy, China Pharmaceutical University, Nanjing, 210009, China
| | - Yali Chen
- Jiang Su Key Laboratory of Drug Design and Optimization and State Key Laboratory of Natural Medicines, China Pharmaceutical University, Nanjing, 210009, China; Department of Medicinal Chemistry, School of Pharmacy, China Pharmaceutical University, Nanjing, 210009, China
| | - Qidong You
- Jiang Su Key Laboratory of Drug Design and Optimization and State Key Laboratory of Natural Medicines, China Pharmaceutical University, Nanjing, 210009, China; Department of Medicinal Chemistry, School of Pharmacy, China Pharmaceutical University, Nanjing, 210009, China
| | - Zhengyu Jiang
- Jiang Su Key Laboratory of Drug Design and Optimization and State Key Laboratory of Natural Medicines, China Pharmaceutical University, Nanjing, 210009, China; Department of Medicinal Chemistry, School of Pharmacy, China Pharmaceutical University, Nanjing, 210009, China.
| | - Xuetao Chen
- Jiang Su Key Laboratory of Drug Design and Optimization and State Key Laboratory of Natural Medicines, China Pharmaceutical University, Nanjing, 210009, China; Department of Medicinal Chemistry, School of Pharmacy, China Pharmaceutical University, Nanjing, 210009, China.
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3
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Li Y, Shen Z, Ratia K, Zhao J, Huang F, Dubrovyskyii O, Indukuri D, Fu J, Lozano Ramos O, Thatcher GRJ, Xiong R. Structure-Guided Design and Synthesis of Pyridinone-Based Selective Bromodomain and Extra-Terminal Domain (BET)-First Bromodomain (BD1) Inhibitors. J Med Chem 2024; 67:2712-2731. [PMID: 38295759 DOI: 10.1021/acs.jmedchem.3c01837] [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: 02/02/2024]
Abstract
The bromodomain and extra-terminal domain (BET) proteins are epigenetic readers, regulating transcription via two highly homologous tandem bromodomains, BD1 and BD2. Clinical development of nonselective pan-BD BET inhibitors has been challenging, partly due to dose-limiting side effects such as thrombocytopenia. This has prompted the push for domain-selective BET inhibitors to achieve a more favorable therapeutic window. We report a structure-guided drug design campaign that led to the development of a potent BD1-selective BET inhibitor, 33 (XL-126), with a Kd of 8.9 nM and 185-fold BD1/BD2 selectivity. The high selectivity was first assayed by SPR, validated by a secondary time-resolved fluorescence energy transfer assay, and further corroborated by BROMOscan (∼57-373 fold selectivity). The cocrystal of 33 with BRD4 BD1 and BD2 demonstrates the source of selectivity: repulsion with His437 and lost binding with the leucine clamp. Notably, the BD1 selectivity of BET inhibitor 33 leads to both the preservation of platelets and potent anti-inflammatory efficacy.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yangfeng Li
- UICentre (Drug Discovery@UIC), University of Illinois at Chicago, 833 S Wood Street, Chicago, Illinois 60612, United States
| | - Zhengnan Shen
- UICentre (Drug Discovery@UIC), University of Illinois at Chicago, 833 S Wood Street, Chicago, Illinois 60612, United States
| | - Kiira Ratia
- UICentre (Drug Discovery@UIC), University of Illinois at Chicago, 833 S Wood Street, Chicago, Illinois 60612, United States
- Department of Pharmaceutical Sciences, University of Illinois College of Pharmacy, University of Illinois at Chicago, 833 S Wood Street, Chicago, Illinois 60612, United States
- Research Resources Center, University of Illinois at Chicago, Chicago, Illinois 60612, United States
| | - Jiong Zhao
- Department of Pharmaceutical Sciences, University of Illinois College of Pharmacy, University of Illinois at Chicago, 833 S Wood Street, Chicago, Illinois 60612, United States
| | - Fei Huang
- UICentre (Drug Discovery@UIC), University of Illinois at Chicago, 833 S Wood Street, Chicago, Illinois 60612, United States
| | - Oleksii Dubrovyskyii
- UICentre (Drug Discovery@UIC), University of Illinois at Chicago, 833 S Wood Street, Chicago, Illinois 60612, United States
| | - Divakar Indukuri
- Department of Pharmacology & Toxicology, University of Arizona, Tucson, Arizona 85721, United States
| | - Jiqiang Fu
- Department of Pharmacology & Toxicology, University of Arizona, Tucson, Arizona 85721, United States
| | - Omar Lozano Ramos
- Department of Pharmacology & Toxicology, University of Arizona, Tucson, Arizona 85721, United States
| | - Gregory R J Thatcher
- UICentre (Drug Discovery@UIC), University of Illinois at Chicago, 833 S Wood Street, Chicago, Illinois 60612, United States
- Department of Pharmaceutical Sciences, University of Illinois College of Pharmacy, University of Illinois at Chicago, 833 S Wood Street, Chicago, Illinois 60612, United States
| | - Rui Xiong
- UICentre (Drug Discovery@UIC), University of Illinois at Chicago, 833 S Wood Street, Chicago, Illinois 60612, United States
- Department of Pharmaceutical Sciences, University of Illinois College of Pharmacy, University of Illinois at Chicago, 833 S Wood Street, Chicago, Illinois 60612, United States
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4
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Chen X, Wu T, Du Z, Kang W, Xu R, Meng F, Liu C, Chen Y, Bao Q, Shen J, You Q, Cao D, Jiang Z, Guo X. Discovery of a brain-permeable bromodomain and extra terminal domain (BET) inhibitor with selectivity for BD1 for the treatment of multiple sclerosis. Eur J Med Chem 2024; 265:116080. [PMID: 38142510 DOI: 10.1016/j.ejmech.2023.116080] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/27/2023] [Revised: 12/18/2023] [Accepted: 12/18/2023] [Indexed: 12/26/2023]
Abstract
Multiple sclerosis (MS) is a neuroinflammatory autoimmune disease and lacks effective therapeutic agents. Dysregulation of transcription mediated by bromodomain and extra-terminal domain (BET) proteins containing two different bromodomains (BD1 and BD2) is an important factor in multiple diseases, including MS. Herein, we identified a series of BD1-biased inhibitors, in which compound 16 showed nanomolar potency for BD1 (Kd = 230 nM) and a 60-fold selectivity for BRD4 BD1 over BD2. The co-crystal structure of BRD4 BD1 with 16 indicated that the hydrogen bond interaction of 16 with BD1-specific Asp145 is important for BD1 selectivity. 16 showed favorable brain distribution in mice and PK properties in rats. 16 was able to inhibit microglia activation and had significant therapeutic effects on EAE mice including improvement of spinal cord inflammatory conditions and demyelination protection. Overall, these results suggest that brain-permeable BD1 inhibitors have the potential to be further investigated as therapeutic agents for MS.
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Affiliation(s)
- Xuetao Chen
- Jiang Su Key Laboratory of Drug Design and Optimization and State Key Laboratory of Natural Medicines, China Pharmaceutical University, Nanjing, 210009, China; Department of Medicinal Chemistry, School of Pharmacy, China Pharmaceutical University, Nanjing, 210009, China
| | - Tingting Wu
- Jiang Su Key Laboratory of Drug Design and Optimization and State Key Laboratory of Natural Medicines, China Pharmaceutical University, Nanjing, 210009, China; Department of Medicinal Chemistry, School of Pharmacy, China Pharmaceutical University, Nanjing, 210009, China
| | - Zhiyan Du
- Department of Medicinal Chemistry, Shanghai Institute of Materia Medica, Chinese Academy of Sciences, 555 Zuchongzhi Road, Shanghai, 201203, China
| | - Wenjing Kang
- Jiang Su Key Laboratory of Drug Design and Optimization and State Key Laboratory of Natural Medicines, China Pharmaceutical University, Nanjing, 210009, China; Department of Medicinal Chemistry, School of Pharmacy, China Pharmaceutical University, Nanjing, 210009, China
| | - Rujun Xu
- Jiang Su Key Laboratory of Drug Design and Optimization and State Key Laboratory of Natural Medicines, China Pharmaceutical University, Nanjing, 210009, China; Department of Medicinal Chemistry, School of Pharmacy, China Pharmaceutical University, Nanjing, 210009, China
| | - Fanying Meng
- Jiang Su Key Laboratory of Drug Design and Optimization and State Key Laboratory of Natural Medicines, China Pharmaceutical University, Nanjing, 210009, China; Department of Medicinal Chemistry, School of Pharmacy, China Pharmaceutical University, Nanjing, 210009, China
| | - Chihong Liu
- Jiang Su Key Laboratory of Drug Design and Optimization and State Key Laboratory of Natural Medicines, China Pharmaceutical University, Nanjing, 210009, China; Department of Medicinal Chemistry, School of Pharmacy, China Pharmaceutical University, Nanjing, 210009, China
| | - Yali Chen
- Jiang Su Key Laboratory of Drug Design and Optimization and State Key Laboratory of Natural Medicines, China Pharmaceutical University, Nanjing, 210009, China; Department of Medicinal Chemistry, School of Pharmacy, China Pharmaceutical University, Nanjing, 210009, China
| | - Qichao Bao
- Jiang Su Key Laboratory of Drug Design and Optimization and State Key Laboratory of Natural Medicines, China Pharmaceutical University, Nanjing, 210009, China
| | - Jingkang Shen
- Department of Medicinal Chemistry, Shanghai Institute of Materia Medica, Chinese Academy of Sciences, 555 Zuchongzhi Road, Shanghai, 201203, China
| | - Qidong You
- Jiang Su Key Laboratory of Drug Design and Optimization and State Key Laboratory of Natural Medicines, China Pharmaceutical University, Nanjing, 210009, China; Department of Medicinal Chemistry, School of Pharmacy, China Pharmaceutical University, Nanjing, 210009, China
| | - Danyan Cao
- Department of Medicinal Chemistry, Shanghai Institute of Materia Medica, Chinese Academy of Sciences, 555 Zuchongzhi Road, Shanghai, 201203, China.
| | - Zhengyu Jiang
- Jiang Su Key Laboratory of Drug Design and Optimization and State Key Laboratory of Natural Medicines, China Pharmaceutical University, Nanjing, 210009, China; Department of Medicinal Chemistry, School of Pharmacy, China Pharmaceutical University, Nanjing, 210009, China.
| | - Xiaoke Guo
- Jiang Su Key Laboratory of Drug Design and Optimization and State Key Laboratory of Natural Medicines, China Pharmaceutical University, Nanjing, 210009, China; Department of Medicinal Chemistry, School of Pharmacy, China Pharmaceutical University, Nanjing, 210009, China.
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5
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Jiang W, Hou Q, Xu H, Yang K, Wang X, Zhang K, Zeng Y, Li W, Wang B, Luo G, Zhao X, Shen H, Xu Y, Wu X. Discovery of Novel Phenoxyaryl Pyridones as Bromodomain and Extra-Terminal Domain (BET) Inhibitors with High Selectivity for the Second Bromodomain (BD2) to Potentially Treat Acute Myeloid Leukemia. J Med Chem 2024; 67:1513-1532. [PMID: 38175809 DOI: 10.1021/acs.jmedchem.3c02104] [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: 01/06/2024]
Abstract
Bromodomain-selective BET inhibition has emerged as a promising strategy to improve the safety profiles of pan-BET inhibitors. Herein, we report the discovery of potent phenoxyaryl pyridones as highly BD2-selective BET inhibitors. Compound 23 (IC50 = 2.9 nM) exhibited a comparable BRD4 BD2 inhibitory activity relative to 10 (IC50 = 1.0 nM) and remarkably improved selectivity over BRD4 BD1 (23: 2583-fold; 10: 344-fold). This lead compound significantly inhibited the proliferation of acute myeloid leukemia (AML) cell lines through induction of G0/G1 arrest and apoptosis in vitro. Excellent in vivo antitumor efficacy with 23 was achieved in an MV;411 mouse xenograft model. Pleasingly, compound 23 (hERG IC50 > 30 μM) mitigated the inhibition of the human ether-à-go-go-related gene (hERG) ion channel compared with 10 (hERG IC50 = 2.8 μM). This work provides a promising BD2-selective lead for the development of more effective and safe BET inhibitors as anticancer agents.
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Affiliation(s)
- Wenhua Jiang
- Department of Medicinal Chemistry, School of Pharmacy, China Pharmaceutical University, Nanjing 211198, China
- Institute of Innovative Drug Discovery and Development, China Pharmaceutical University, Nanjing 211198, China
| | - Qiangqiang Hou
- Department of Medicinal Chemistry, School of Pharmacy, China Pharmaceutical University, Nanjing 211198, China
- Institute of Innovative Drug Discovery and Development, China Pharmaceutical University, Nanjing 211198, China
| | - Hongrui Xu
- Center for Chemical Biology and Drug Discovery, Guangzhou Institutes of Biomedicine and Health, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Guangzhou, 510530, China
| | - Kexin Yang
- Department of Medicinal Chemistry, School of Pharmacy, China Pharmaceutical University, Nanjing 211198, China
- Institute of Innovative Drug Discovery and Development, China Pharmaceutical University, Nanjing 211198, China
| | - Xiaohui Wang
- Department of Medicinal Chemistry, School of Pharmacy, China Pharmaceutical University, Nanjing 211198, China
- Institute of Innovative Drug Discovery and Development, China Pharmaceutical University, Nanjing 211198, China
| | - Kuojun Zhang
- Department of Medicinal Chemistry, School of Pharmacy, China Pharmaceutical University, Nanjing 211198, China
- Institute of Innovative Drug Discovery and Development, China Pharmaceutical University, Nanjing 211198, China
| | - Yi Zeng
- Department of Medicinal Chemistry, School of Pharmacy, China Pharmaceutical University, Nanjing 211198, China
- Institute of Innovative Drug Discovery and Development, China Pharmaceutical University, Nanjing 211198, China
| | - Wenqiang Li
- Department of Medicinal Chemistry, School of Pharmacy, China Pharmaceutical University, Nanjing 211198, China
- Institute of Innovative Drug Discovery and Development, China Pharmaceutical University, Nanjing 211198, China
| | - Bingrui Wang
- Department of Medicinal Chemistry, School of Pharmacy, China Pharmaceutical University, Nanjing 211198, China
- Institute of Innovative Drug Discovery and Development, China Pharmaceutical University, Nanjing 211198, China
| | - Guangmei Luo
- Department of Medicinal Chemistry, School of Pharmacy, China Pharmaceutical University, Nanjing 211198, China
- Institute of Innovative Drug Discovery and Development, China Pharmaceutical University, Nanjing 211198, China
| | - Xiaofan Zhao
- GMU-GIBH Joint School of Life Sciences, Guangzhou Medical University, Guangzhou, 511436, China
| | - Hui Shen
- Center for Chemical Biology and Drug Discovery, Guangzhou Institutes of Biomedicine and Health, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Guangzhou, 510530, China
| | - Yong Xu
- Center for Chemical Biology and Drug Discovery, Guangzhou Institutes of Biomedicine and Health, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Guangzhou, 510530, China
- China-New Zealand Joint Laboratory on Biomedicine and Health, Guangzhou, 510530, China
- State Key Laboratory of Respiratory Disease, Guangzhou Institutes of Biomedicine and Health, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Guangzhou, 510530, China
| | - Xiaoxing Wu
- Department of Medicinal Chemistry, School of Pharmacy, China Pharmaceutical University, Nanjing 211198, China
- Institute of Innovative Drug Discovery and Development, China Pharmaceutical University, Nanjing 211198, China
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6
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Bradley E, Fusani L, Chung CW, Craggs PD, Demont EH, Humphreys PG, Mitchell DJ, Phillipou A, Rioja I, Shah RR, Wellaway CR, Prinjha RK, Palmer DS, Kerr WJ, Reid M, Wall ID, Cookson R. Structure-Guided Design of a Domain-Selective Bromodomain and Extra Terminal N-Terminal Bromodomain Chemical Probe. J Med Chem 2023; 66:15728-15749. [PMID: 37967462 PMCID: PMC10726358 DOI: 10.1021/acs.jmedchem.3c00906] [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: 05/19/2023] [Revised: 08/11/2023] [Accepted: 10/26/2023] [Indexed: 11/17/2023]
Abstract
Small-molecule-mediated disruption of the protein-protein interactions between acetylated histone tails and the tandem bromodomains of the bromodomain and extra-terminal (BET) family of proteins is an important mechanism of action for the potential modulation of immuno-inflammatory and oncology disease. High-quality chemical probes have proven invaluable in elucidating profound BET bromodomain biology, with seminal publications of both pan- and domain-selective BET family bromodomain inhibitors enabling academic and industrial research. To enrich the toolbox of structurally differentiated N-terminal bromodomain (BD1) BET family chemical probes, this work describes an analysis of the GSK BRD4 bromodomain data set through a lipophilic efficiency lens, which enabled identification of a BD1 domain-biased benzimidazole series. Structure-guided growth targeting a key Asp/His BD1/BD2 switch enabled delivery of GSK023, a high-quality chemical probe with 300-1000-fold BET BD1 domain selectivity and a phenotypic cellular fingerprint consistent with BET bromodomain inhibition.
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Affiliation(s)
- Erin Bradley
- GSK,
Medicines Research Centre, Stevenage SG1 2NY, Hertfordshire, U.K.
- Department
of Pure and Applied Chemistry, University
of Strathclyde, Thomas
Graham Building, 295 Cathedral Street, Glasgow G1 1XL, U.K.
| | - Lucia Fusani
- GSK,
Medicines Research Centre, Stevenage SG1 2NY, Hertfordshire, U.K.
- Department
of Pure and Applied Chemistry, University
of Strathclyde, Thomas
Graham Building, 295 Cathedral Street, Glasgow G1 1XL, U.K.
| | - Chun-wa Chung
- GSK,
Medicines Research Centre, Stevenage SG1 2NY, Hertfordshire, U.K.
| | - Peter D. Craggs
- GSK,
Medicines Research Centre, Stevenage SG1 2NY, Hertfordshire, U.K.
| | | | | | | | - Alex Phillipou
- GSK,
Medicines Research Centre, Stevenage SG1 2NY, Hertfordshire, U.K.
| | - Inmaculada Rioja
- GSK,
Medicines Research Centre, Stevenage SG1 2NY, Hertfordshire, U.K.
| | - Rishi R. Shah
- GSK,
Medicines Research Centre, Stevenage SG1 2NY, Hertfordshire, U.K.
| | | | - Rab K. Prinjha
- GSK,
Medicines Research Centre, Stevenage SG1 2NY, Hertfordshire, U.K.
| | - David S. Palmer
- Department
of Pure and Applied Chemistry, University
of Strathclyde, Thomas
Graham Building, 295 Cathedral Street, Glasgow G1 1XL, U.K.
| | - William J. Kerr
- Department
of Pure and Applied Chemistry, University
of Strathclyde, Thomas
Graham Building, 295 Cathedral Street, Glasgow G1 1XL, U.K.
| | - Marc Reid
- Department
of Pure and Applied Chemistry, University
of Strathclyde, Thomas
Graham Building, 295 Cathedral Street, Glasgow G1 1XL, U.K.
| | - Ian D. Wall
- GSK,
Medicines Research Centre, Stevenage SG1 2NY, Hertfordshire, U.K.
| | - Rosa Cookson
- GSK,
Medicines Research Centre, Stevenage SG1 2NY, Hertfordshire, U.K.
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7
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Noberini R, Bonaldi T. Proteomics contributions to epigenetic drug discovery. Proteomics 2023; 23:e2200435. [PMID: 37727062 DOI: 10.1002/pmic.202200435] [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: 06/09/2023] [Revised: 08/30/2023] [Accepted: 08/31/2023] [Indexed: 09/21/2023]
Abstract
The combined activity of epigenetic features, which include histone post-translational modifications, DNA methylation, and nucleosome positioning, regulates gene expression independently from changes in the DNA sequence, defining how the shared genetic information of an organism is used to generate different cell phenotypes. Alterations in epigenetic processes have been linked with a multitude of diseases, including cancer, fueling interest in the discovery of drugs targeting the proteins responsible for writing, erasing, or reading histone and DNA modifications. Mass spectrometry (MS)-based proteomics has emerged as a versatile tool that can assist drug discovery pipelines from target validation, through target deconvolution, to monitoring drug efficacy in vivo. Here, we provide an overview of the contributions of MS-based proteomics to epigenetic drug discovery, describing the main approaches that can be used to support different drug discovery pipelines and highlighting how they contributed to the development and characterization of epigenetic drugs.
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Affiliation(s)
- Roberta Noberini
- Department of Experimental Oncology, IEO, European Institute of Oncology IRCCS, Milan, Italy
| | - Tiziana Bonaldi
- Department of Experimental Oncology, IEO, European Institute of Oncology IRCCS, Milan, Italy
- Department of Oncology and Hematology-Oncology, University of Milan, Milan, Italy
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8
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Mohammed A, Waddell MB, Sutkeviciute I, Danda A, Philips SJ, Lang W, Slavish PJ, Kietlinska SJ, Kaulage M, Sourav D, Ansari AZ. Domain-Selective BET Ligands Yield Next-Generation Synthetic Genome Readers/Regulators with Nonidentical Cellular Functions. J Am Chem Soc 2023. [PMID: 37923569 DOI: 10.1021/jacs.3c06297] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/07/2023]
Abstract
SynTEF1, a prototype synthetic genome reader/regulator (SynGR), was designed to target GAA triplet repeats and restore the expression of frataxin (FXN) in Friedreich's ataxia patients. It achieves this complex task by recruiting BRD4, via a pan-BET ligand (JQ1), to the GAA repeats by using a sequence-selective DNA-binding polyamide. When bound to specific genomic loci in this way, JQ1 functions as a chemical prosthetic for acetyl-lysine residues that are natural targets of the two tandem bromodomains (BD1 and BD2) in bromo- and extra-terminal domain (BET) proteins. As next-generation BET ligands were disclosed, we tested a select set with improved physicochemical, pharmacological, and bromodomain-selective properties as substitutes for JQ1 in the SynGR design. Here, we report two unexpected findings: (1) SynGRs bearing pan-BET or BD2-selective ligands license transcription at the FXN locus, whereas those bearing BD1-selective ligands do not, and (2) rather than being neutral or inhibitory, an untethered BD1-selective ligand (GSK778) substantively enhances the activity of all active SynGRs. The failure of BD1-selective SynGRs to recruit BRD4/BET proteins suggests that rather than functioning as "epigenetic/chromatin mimics," active SynGRs mimic the functions of natural transcription factors in engaging BET proteins through BD2 binding. Moreover, the enhanced activity of SynGRs upon cotreatment with the BD1-selective ligand suggests that natural transcription factors compete for a limited pool of nonchromatin-bound BET proteins, and blocking BD1 directs pan-BET ligands to more effectively engage BD2. Taken together, SynGRs as chemical probes provide unique insights into the molecular recognition principles utilized by natural factors to precisely regulate gene expression, and they guide the design of more sophisticated synthetic gene regulators with greater therapeutic potential.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ashraf Mohammed
- Department of Chemical Biology and Therapeutics, St. Jude Children's Research Hospital, Memphis, Tennessee 38105, United States
| | - M Brett Waddell
- Department of Structural Biology, St. Jude Children's Research Hospital, Memphis, Tennessee 38105, United States
| | - Ieva Sutkeviciute
- Department of Structural Biology, St. Jude Children's Research Hospital, Memphis, Tennessee 38105, United States
| | - Adithi Danda
- Department of Chemical Biology and Therapeutics, St. Jude Children's Research Hospital, Memphis, Tennessee 38105, United States
| | - Steven J Philips
- Department of Chemical Biology and Therapeutics, St. Jude Children's Research Hospital, Memphis, Tennessee 38105, United States
| | - Walter Lang
- Department of Chemical Biology and Therapeutics, St. Jude Children's Research Hospital, Memphis, Tennessee 38105, United States
| | - P Jake Slavish
- Department of Chemical Biology and Therapeutics, St. Jude Children's Research Hospital, Memphis, Tennessee 38105, United States
| | - Sandra J Kietlinska
- Department of Chemical Biology and Therapeutics, St. Jude Children's Research Hospital, Memphis, Tennessee 38105, United States
| | - Mangesh Kaulage
- Department of Chemical Biology and Therapeutics, St. Jude Children's Research Hospital, Memphis, Tennessee 38105, United States
| | - Das Sourav
- Department of Chemical Biology and Therapeutics, St. Jude Children's Research Hospital, Memphis, Tennessee 38105, United States
| | - Aseem Z Ansari
- Department of Chemical Biology and Therapeutics, St. Jude Children's Research Hospital, Memphis, Tennessee 38105, United States
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9
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Li Y, Liu Y, Zhang D, Chen J, Yang G, Tang P, Yang C, Liu J, Zhang J, Ouyang L. Discovery, Synthesis, and Evaluation of Novel Dual Inhibitors of a Vascular Endothelial Growth Factor Receptor and Poly(ADP-Ribose) Polymerase for BRCA Wild-Type Breast Cancer Therapy. J Med Chem 2023; 66:12069-12100. [PMID: 37616488 DOI: 10.1021/acs.jmedchem.3c00640] [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: 08/26/2023]
Abstract
Poly(ADP-ribose) polymerase (PARP) inhibitors have been approved for the treatment of breast cancer (BC) with breast cancer susceptibility (BRCA) gene mutation. Leveraging new synthetic lethal interactions may be an effective way to broaden the indication of PARP inhibitors for BC patients with wild-type BRCA. Vascular endothelial growth factor receptor (VEGFR)-mediated suppression of angiogenesis has been reported to improve the sensitivity of wild-type BRCA cells to PARP inhibitors through synthetic lethality. Herein, we reported the conjugation of a PARP inhibitor with a VEGFR inhibitor pharmacophore to construct dual VEGFR and PARP inhibitors. The most potent compound 14b is identified to exert promising activities against VEGFR and PARP in the nanomolar range and possesses significant in vitro and in vivo antitumor and antimetastasis features. It also presented a favorable pharmacokinetic characteristics in rats with an oral bioavailability of 60.1%. Collectively, 14b may be a promising therapeutic agent of BRCA wild-type BC.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yang Li
- Department of Biotherapy, Cancer Center and State Key Laboratory of Biotherapy and Joint Research Institution of Altitude Health and National Clinical Research Center for Geriatrics, West China Hospital, Sichuan University, Chengdu 610041, China
| | - Yun Liu
- Department of Biotherapy, Cancer Center and State Key Laboratory of Biotherapy and Joint Research Institution of Altitude Health and National Clinical Research Center for Geriatrics, West China Hospital, Sichuan University, Chengdu 610041, China
| | - Dan Zhang
- Department of Biotherapy, Cancer Center and State Key Laboratory of Biotherapy and Joint Research Institution of Altitude Health and National Clinical Research Center for Geriatrics, West China Hospital, Sichuan University, Chengdu 610041, China
| | - Juncheng Chen
- Department of Biotherapy, Cancer Center and State Key Laboratory of Biotherapy and Joint Research Institution of Altitude Health and National Clinical Research Center for Geriatrics, West China Hospital, Sichuan University, Chengdu 610041, China
| | - Gaoxia Yang
- Department of Biotherapy, Cancer Center and State Key Laboratory of Biotherapy and Joint Research Institution of Altitude Health and National Clinical Research Center for Geriatrics, West China Hospital, Sichuan University, Chengdu 610041, China
| | - Pan Tang
- Department of Biotherapy, Cancer Center and State Key Laboratory of Biotherapy and Joint Research Institution of Altitude Health and National Clinical Research Center for Geriatrics, West China Hospital, Sichuan University, Chengdu 610041, China
| | - Chengcan Yang
- Department of Biotherapy, Cancer Center and State Key Laboratory of Biotherapy and Joint Research Institution of Altitude Health and National Clinical Research Center for Geriatrics, West China Hospital, Sichuan University, Chengdu 610041, China
| | - Jie Liu
- Department of Biotherapy, Cancer Center and State Key Laboratory of Biotherapy and Joint Research Institution of Altitude Health and National Clinical Research Center for Geriatrics, West China Hospital, Sichuan University, Chengdu 610041, China
| | - Jifa Zhang
- Department of Biotherapy, Cancer Center and State Key Laboratory of Biotherapy and Joint Research Institution of Altitude Health and National Clinical Research Center for Geriatrics, West China Hospital, Sichuan University, Chengdu 610041, China
- Frontiers Medical Center, Tianfu Jincheng Laboratory, Chengdu, 610212, China
| | - Liang Ouyang
- Department of Biotherapy, Cancer Center and State Key Laboratory of Biotherapy and Joint Research Institution of Altitude Health and National Clinical Research Center for Geriatrics, West China Hospital, Sichuan University, Chengdu 610041, China
- Frontiers Medical Center, Tianfu Jincheng Laboratory, Chengdu, 610212, China
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10
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Yang X, Gao Y, Cao F, Wang S. Molecular Dynamics Simulations Combined with Markov Model to Explore the Effect of Allosteric Inhibitor Binding on Bromodomain-Containing Protein 4. Int J Mol Sci 2023; 24:10831. [PMID: 37446009 DOI: 10.3390/ijms241310831] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/23/2023] [Revised: 06/21/2023] [Accepted: 06/24/2023] [Indexed: 07/15/2023] Open
Abstract
Bromodomain-Containing Protein 4 (BRD4) can play an important role in gene transcriptional regulation of tumor development and survival by participating in histone modification epigenetic mechanism. Although it has been reported that novel allosteric inhibitors such as ZL0590 have a high affinity with target protein BRD4 and good efficacy, their inhibitory mechanism has not been studied further. The aim of this study was to reveal the inhibition mechanism of allosteric inhibitor ZL0590 on Free-BRD4 and BRD4 binding MS436 (orthosteric inhibitor) by molecular dynamics simulation combined with a Markov model. Our results showed that BRD4-ZL0590 led to α-helices formation of 100-105 compared with Free-BRD4; the combination of MS436 caused residues 30-40 and 95-105 to form α-helices, while the combination of allosteric inhibitors untangled the α-helices formed by the MS436. The results of Markov flux analysis showed that the binding process of inhibitors mainly involved changes in the degree of α-helices at ZA loop. The binding of ZL0590 reduced the distance between ZA loop and BC loop, blocked the conformation at the active site, and inhibited the binding of MS436. After the allosteric inhibitor binding, the MS436 that could normally penetrate into the interior of the pocket was floating on the edge of the active pocket and did not continue to penetrate into the active pocket as expected. In summary, we provide a theoretical basis for the inhibition mechanism of ZL0590 against BRD4, which can be used as a reference for improving the development of drug targets for cancer therapy.
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Affiliation(s)
- Xiaotang Yang
- Key Laboratory for Molecular Enzymology and Engineering of Ministry of Education, School of Life Science, Jilin University, 2699 Qianjin Street, Changchun 130012, China
| | - Yilin Gao
- Key Laboratory for Molecular Enzymology and Engineering of Ministry of Education, School of Life Science, Jilin University, 2699 Qianjin Street, Changchun 130012, China
| | - Fuyan Cao
- Key Laboratory for Molecular Enzymology and Engineering of Ministry of Education, School of Life Science, Jilin University, 2699 Qianjin Street, Changchun 130012, China
| | - Song Wang
- The Institute of Theoretical Chemistry, College of Chemistry, Jilin University, 2 Liutiao Road, Changchun 130012, China
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11
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Yellapu NK, Pei D, Nissen E, Thompson JA, Koestler DC. Comprehensive exploration of JQ1 and GSK2801 targets in breast cancer using network pharmacology and molecular modeling approaches. Comput Struct Biotechnol J 2023; 21:3224-3233. [PMID: 38213901 PMCID: PMC10781883 DOI: 10.1016/j.csbj.2023.06.003] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/15/2023] [Revised: 06/02/2023] [Accepted: 06/02/2023] [Indexed: 01/13/2024] Open
Abstract
JQ1 and GSK2801 are bromo domain inhibitors (BDI) known to exhibit enhanced anti-cancer activity when combined with other agents. However, the underlying molecular mechanisms behind such enhanced activity remain unclear. We used network-pharmacology approaches to understand the shared molecular mechanisms behind the enhanced activity of JQ1 and GSK2801 when used together to treat breast cancer (BC). The gene targets of JQ1 and GSK2801 were intersected with known BC-targets and their putative targets against BC were derived. The key genes were explored through gene-ontology-enrichment, Protein-Protein-Interaction (PPI) networking, survival analysis, and molecular modeling simulations. The genes, CTSB, MAPK14, MET, PSEN2 and STAT3, were found to be common targets for both drugs. In total, 49 biological processes, five molecular functions and 61 metabolic pathways were similarly enriched for JQ1 and GSK2801 BC targets among which several terms are related to cancer: IL-17, TNF and JAK-STAT signaling pathways. Survival analyses revealed that all five putative synergistic targets are significantly associated with survival in BC (log-rank p < 0.05). Molecular modeling studies showed stable binding of JQ1 and GSK2801 against their targets. In conclusion, this study explored and illuminated the possible molecular mechanisms behind the enhanced activity of JQ1 and GSK2801 against BC and suggests synergistic action through their similar BC-targets and gene-ontologies.
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Affiliation(s)
- Nanda Kumar Yellapu
- Department of Biostatistics & Data Science, University of Kansas, Medical Center, Kansas City, KS, USA
| | - Dong Pei
- Department of Biostatistics & Data Science, University of Kansas, Medical Center, Kansas City, KS, USA
| | - Emily Nissen
- Department of Biostatistics & Data Science, University of Kansas, Medical Center, Kansas City, KS, USA
| | - Jeffrey A. Thompson
- Department of Biostatistics & Data Science, University of Kansas, Medical Center, Kansas City, KS, USA
| | - Devin C. Koestler
- Department of Biostatistics & Data Science, University of Kansas, Medical Center, Kansas City, KS, USA
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12
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Pan Z, Zhao Y, Wang X, Xie X, Liu M, Zhang K, Wang L, Bai D, Foster LJ, Shu R, He G. Targeting bromodomain-containing proteins: research advances of drug discovery. MOLECULAR BIOMEDICINE 2023; 4:13. [PMID: 37142850 PMCID: PMC10159834 DOI: 10.1186/s43556-023-00127-1] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/16/2023] [Accepted: 04/02/2023] [Indexed: 05/06/2023] Open
Abstract
Bromodomain (BD) is an evolutionarily conserved protein module found in 46 different BD-containing proteins (BCPs). BD acts as a specific reader for acetylated lysine residues (KAc) and serves an essential role in transcriptional regulation, chromatin remodeling, DNA damage repair, and cell proliferation. On the other hand, BCPs have been shown to be involved in the pathogenesis of a variety of diseases, including cancers, inflammation, cardiovascular diseases, and viral infections. Over the past decade, researchers have brought new therapeutic strategies to relevant diseases by inhibiting the activity or downregulating the expression of BCPs to interfere with the transcription of pathogenic genes. An increasing number of potent inhibitors and degraders of BCPs have been developed, some of which are already in clinical trials. In this paper, we provide a comprehensive review of recent advances in the study of drugs that inhibit or down-regulate BCPs, focusing on the development history, molecular structure, biological activity, interaction with BCPs and therapeutic potentials of these drugs. In addition, we discuss current challenges, issues to be addressed and future research directions for the development of BCPs inhibitors. Lessons learned from the successful or unsuccessful development experiences of these inhibitors or degraders will facilitate the further development of efficient, selective and less toxic inhibitors of BCPs and eventually achieve drug application in the clinic.
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Affiliation(s)
- Zhaoping Pan
- Department of Dermatology & Venerology and State Key Laboratory of Biotherapy, West China Hospital, Sichuan University, Chengdu, Sichuan, 610041, China
- Laboratory of Dermatology, Clinical Institute of Inflammation and Immunology (CIII), Frontiers Science Center for Disease-Related Molecular Network, West China Hospital, Sichuan University, Chengdu, 610041, China
| | - Yuxi Zhao
- State Key Laboratory of Oral Diseases, National Clinical Research Center for Oral Disease, Department of Orthodontics and Pediatrics, West China Hospital of Stomatology, Sichuan University, Chengdu, 610041, China
| | - Xiaoyun Wang
- Department of Dermatology & Venerology and State Key Laboratory of Biotherapy, West China Hospital, Sichuan University, Chengdu, Sichuan, 610041, China
- Laboratory of Dermatology, Clinical Institute of Inflammation and Immunology (CIII), Frontiers Science Center for Disease-Related Molecular Network, West China Hospital, Sichuan University, Chengdu, 610041, China
| | - Xin Xie
- College of Medical Technology and School of Pharmacy, Chengdu University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Chengdu, 611137, China
- Michael Smith Laboratories, University of British Columbia, Vancouver, BC, V6T 1Z4, Canada
| | - Mingxia Liu
- Department of Dermatology & Venerology and State Key Laboratory of Biotherapy, West China Hospital, Sichuan University, Chengdu, Sichuan, 610041, China
| | - Kaiyao Zhang
- Department of Dermatology & Venerology and State Key Laboratory of Biotherapy, West China Hospital, Sichuan University, Chengdu, Sichuan, 610041, China
| | - Lian Wang
- Department of Dermatology & Venerology and State Key Laboratory of Biotherapy, West China Hospital, Sichuan University, Chengdu, Sichuan, 610041, China
| | - Ding Bai
- State Key Laboratory of Oral Diseases, National Clinical Research Center for Oral Disease, Department of Orthodontics and Pediatrics, West China Hospital of Stomatology, Sichuan University, Chengdu, 610041, China
| | - Leonard J Foster
- Michael Smith Laboratories, University of British Columbia, Vancouver, BC, V6T 1Z4, Canada
| | - Rui Shu
- State Key Laboratory of Oral Diseases, National Clinical Research Center for Oral Disease, Department of Orthodontics and Pediatrics, West China Hospital of Stomatology, Sichuan University, Chengdu, 610041, China.
| | - Gu He
- Department of Dermatology & Venerology and State Key Laboratory of Biotherapy, West China Hospital, Sichuan University, Chengdu, Sichuan, 610041, China.
- Laboratory of Dermatology, Clinical Institute of Inflammation and Immunology (CIII), Frontiers Science Center for Disease-Related Molecular Network, West China Hospital, Sichuan University, Chengdu, 610041, China.
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13
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Koravovic M, Mayasundari A, Tasic G, Keramatnia F, Stachowski TR, Cui H, Chai SC, Jonchere B, Yang L, Li Y, Fu X, Hiltenbrand R, Paul L, Mishra V, Klco JM, Roussel MF, Pomerantz WC, Fischer M, Rankovic Z, Savic V. From PROTAC to inhibitor: Structure-guided discovery of potent and orally bioavailable BET inhibitors. Eur J Med Chem 2023; 251:115246. [PMID: 36898329 PMCID: PMC10165889 DOI: 10.1016/j.ejmech.2023.115246] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/05/2022] [Revised: 02/16/2023] [Accepted: 02/28/2023] [Indexed: 03/06/2023]
Abstract
An X-ray structure of a CLICK chemistry-based BET PROTAC bound to BRD2(BD2) inspired synthesis of JQ1 derived heterocyclic amides. This effort led to the discovery of potent BET inhibitors displaying overall improved profiles when compared to JQ1 and birabresib. A thiadiazole derived 1q (SJ1461) displayed excellent BRD4 and BRD2 affinity and high potency in the panel of acute leukaemia and medulloblastoma cell lines. A structure of 1q co-crystalised with BRD4-BD1 revealed polar interactions with the AZ/BC loops, in particular with Asn140 and Tyr139, rationalising the observed affinity improvements. In addition, exploration of pharmacokinetic properties of this class of compounds suggest that the heterocyclic amide moiety improves drug-like features. Our study led to the discovery of potent and orally bioavailable BET inhibitor 1q (SJ1461) as a promising candidate for further development.
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Affiliation(s)
- Mladen Koravovic
- University of Belgrade, Faculty of Pharmacy, Department of Organic Chemistry, Vojvode Stepe 450, 11221, Belgrade, Serbia
| | - Anand Mayasundari
- Department of Chemical Biology & Therapeutics, St. Jude Children's Research Hospital, 262 Danny Thomas Place, Memphis, TN, 38105, USA
| | - Gordana Tasic
- University of Belgrade, Faculty of Pharmacy, Department of Organic Chemistry, Vojvode Stepe 450, 11221, Belgrade, Serbia
| | - Fatemeh Keramatnia
- Department of Chemical Biology & Therapeutics, St. Jude Children's Research Hospital, 262 Danny Thomas Place, Memphis, TN, 38105, USA
| | - Timothy R Stachowski
- Department of Chemical Biology & Therapeutics, St. Jude Children's Research Hospital, 262 Danny Thomas Place, Memphis, TN, 38105, USA
| | - Huarui Cui
- Department of Chemistry, University of Minnesota, 207 Pleasant Street SE, Minneapolis, MN, 55455, United States
| | - Sergio C Chai
- Department of Chemical Biology & Therapeutics, St. Jude Children's Research Hospital, 262 Danny Thomas Place, Memphis, TN, 38105, USA
| | - Barbara Jonchere
- Department of Tumour Cell Biology, St. Jude Children's Research Hospital, 262 Danny Thomas Place, Memphis, TN, 38105, USA
| | - Lei Yang
- Department of Chemical Biology & Therapeutics, St. Jude Children's Research Hospital, 262 Danny Thomas Place, Memphis, TN, 38105, USA
| | - Yong Li
- Department of Chemical Biology & Therapeutics, St. Jude Children's Research Hospital, 262 Danny Thomas Place, Memphis, TN, 38105, USA
| | - Xiang Fu
- Department of Chemical Biology & Therapeutics, St. Jude Children's Research Hospital, 262 Danny Thomas Place, Memphis, TN, 38105, USA
| | - Ryan Hiltenbrand
- Department of Pathology, St. Jude Children's Research Hospital, 262 Danny Thomas Place, Memphis, TN, 38105, USA
| | - Leena Paul
- Department of Developmental Neurobiology, St. Jude Children's Research Hospital, 262 Danny Thomas Place, Memphis, TN, 38105, USA
| | - Vibhor Mishra
- Department of Pathology, St. Jude Children's Research Hospital, 262 Danny Thomas Place, Memphis, TN, 38105, USA
| | - Jeffery M Klco
- Department of Pathology, St. Jude Children's Research Hospital, 262 Danny Thomas Place, Memphis, TN, 38105, USA
| | - Martine F Roussel
- Department of Tumour Cell Biology, St. Jude Children's Research Hospital, 262 Danny Thomas Place, Memphis, TN, 38105, USA
| | - William Ck Pomerantz
- Department of Chemistry, University of Minnesota, 207 Pleasant Street SE, Minneapolis, MN, 55455, United States
| | - Marcus Fischer
- Department of Chemical Biology & Therapeutics, St. Jude Children's Research Hospital, 262 Danny Thomas Place, Memphis, TN, 38105, USA
| | - Zoran Rankovic
- Department of Chemical Biology & Therapeutics, St. Jude Children's Research Hospital, 262 Danny Thomas Place, Memphis, TN, 38105, USA.
| | - Vladimir Savic
- University of Belgrade, Faculty of Pharmacy, Department of Organic Chemistry, Vojvode Stepe 450, 11221, Belgrade, Serbia.
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14
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Yang X, Xu L, Yang L. Recent advances in EZH2-based dual inhibitors in the treatment of cancers. Eur J Med Chem 2023; 256:115461. [PMID: 37156182 DOI: 10.1016/j.ejmech.2023.115461] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/21/2023] [Revised: 05/04/2023] [Accepted: 05/04/2023] [Indexed: 05/10/2023]
Abstract
The enhancer of zeste homolog 2 (EZH2) protein is the catalytic subunit of one of the histone methyltransferases. EZH2 catalyzes the trimethylation of lysine 27 of histone H3 (H3K27me3) and further alters downstream target levels. EZH2 is upregulated in cancer tissues, wherein its levels correlate strongly with cancer genesis, progression, metastasis, and invasion. Consequently, it has emerged as a novel anticancer therapeutic target. Nonetheless, developing EZH2 inhibitors (EZH2i) has encountered numerous difficulties, such as pre-clinical drug resistance and poor therapeutic effect. The EZH2i synergistically suppresses cancers when used in combination with additional antitumor drugs, such as PARP inhibitors, HDAC inhibitors, BRD4 inhibitors, EZH1 inhibitors, and EHMT2 inhibitors. Typically, the use of dual inhibitors of two different targets mediated by one individual molecule has been recognized as the preferred approach for overcoming the limitations of EZH2 monotherapy. The present review discusses the theoretical basis for designing EZH2-based dual-target inhibitors, and also describes some in vitro and in vivo analysis results.
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Affiliation(s)
- Xiaojuan Yang
- School of Pharmacy, Xinxiang University, Xinxiang, 453003, China.
| | - Lu Xu
- School of Pharmacy, Xinxiang University, Xinxiang, 453003, China
| | - Li Yang
- School of Pharmacy, Xinxiang University, Xinxiang, 453003, China
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15
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Ding M, Shao Y, Sun D, Meng S, Zang Y, Zhou Y, Li J, Lu W, Zhu S. Design, synthesis, and biological evaluation of BRD4 degraders. Bioorg Med Chem 2023; 78:117134. [PMID: 36563515 DOI: 10.1016/j.bmc.2022.117134] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/03/2022] [Revised: 12/13/2022] [Accepted: 12/13/2022] [Indexed: 12/23/2022]
Abstract
Epigenetic proteins are one of the important targets in the current research fields of cancer therapy. A family of bromodomain-containing (BRD) and extra terminal domain (BET) proteins act as epigenetic readers to regulate the expression of key oncogenes and anti-apoptotic proteins. Recently, although BET degraders based on PROTAC technology have achieved significant antitumor effects, the lack of selectivity for BET protein degradation has not been fully addressed. Herein, a series of small molecule BRD4 PROTACs were designed and synthesized. Most of the degraders were effective in inhibiting MM.1S and MV-4-11 cell lines, especially in MV-4-11. Among them, degrader 8b could induce the degradation of BRD4 and exhibited a time- and concentration-dependent depletion manner and there was a significant depletion of BRD4, laying a foundation for effectively treating leukemia and multiple myeloma. Moreover, 8b could also effectively prevent the activation of MRC5 cells by inducing the degradation of BRD4 protein, which preliminarily proves that the BRD4 degrader based on the PROTAC concept has great potential for the treatment of pulmonary fibrosis. Taken together, these findings laid a foundation for BRD4 degraders as an effective strategy for treating related diseases.
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Affiliation(s)
- Mengyuan Ding
- Shanghai Engineering Research Center of Molecular Therapeutics and New Drug Development, School of Chemistry and Molecular Engineering, East China Normal University, Shanghai 200062, PR China
| | - Yingying Shao
- National Center for Drug Screening, State Key Laboratory of Drug Research, Shanghai Institute of Materia Medica, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Shanghai 201203, PR China
| | - Danwen Sun
- National Center for Drug Screening, State Key Laboratory of Drug Research, Shanghai Institute of Materia Medica, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Shanghai 201203, PR China
| | - Suorina Meng
- University of Chinese Academy of Sciences, NO.19A Yuquan Road, Beijing 100049, PR China; Lingang Laboratory, Shanghai 201203, PR China
| | - Yi Zang
- University of Chinese Academy of Sciences, NO.19A Yuquan Road, Beijing 100049, PR China; Lingang Laboratory, Shanghai 201203, PR China; School of Pharmaceutical Science and Technology, Hangzhou Institute for Advanced Study, University of Chinese Academy of Sciences, Hangzhou 310024, PR China
| | - Yubo Zhou
- National Center for Drug Screening, State Key Laboratory of Drug Research, Shanghai Institute of Materia Medica, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Shanghai 201203, PR China; Zhongshan Institute for Drug Discovery, Shanghai Institute of Materia Medica, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Zhongshan Tsuihang New District, Guangdong 528400, PR China
| | - Jia Li
- National Center for Drug Screening, State Key Laboratory of Drug Research, Shanghai Institute of Materia Medica, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Shanghai 201203, PR China; School of Pharmaceutical Science and Technology, Hangzhou Institute for Advanced Study, University of Chinese Academy of Sciences, Hangzhou 310024, PR China; Zhongshan Institute for Drug Discovery, Shanghai Institute of Materia Medica, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Zhongshan Tsuihang New District, Guangdong 528400, PR China.
| | - Wei Lu
- Shanghai Engineering Research Center of Molecular Therapeutics and New Drug Development, School of Chemistry and Molecular Engineering, East China Normal University, Shanghai 200062, PR China.
| | - Shulei Zhu
- Shanghai Engineering Research Center of Molecular Therapeutics and New Drug Development, School of Chemistry and Molecular Engineering, East China Normal University, Shanghai 200062, PR China.
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16
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Cipriano A, Milite C, Feoli A, Viviano M, Pepe G, Campiglia P, Sarno G, Picaud S, Imaide S, Makukhin N, Filippakopoulos P, Ciulli A, Castellano S, Sbardella G. Discovery of Benzo[d]imidazole-6-sulfonamides as Bromodomain and Extra-Terminal Domain (BET) Inhibitors with Selectivity for the First Bromodomain. ChemMedChem 2022; 17:e202200343. [PMID: 36040095 PMCID: PMC9826262 DOI: 10.1002/cmdc.202200343] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/27/2022] [Revised: 08/29/2022] [Indexed: 01/11/2023]
Abstract
The bromodomain and extra-terminal (BET) family of proteins includes BRD2, BRD3, BRD4, and the testis-specific protein, BRDT, each containing two N-terminal tandem bromodomain (BRD) modules. Potent and selective inhibitors targeting the two bromodomains are required to elucidate their biological role(s), with potential clinical applications. In this study, we designed and synthesized a series of benzimidazole-6-sulfonamides starting from the azobenzene compounds MS436 (7 a) and MS611 (7 b) that exhibited preference for the first (BD1) over the second (BD2) BRD of BET family members. The most-promising compound (9 a) showed good binding potency and improved metabolic stability and selectivity towards BD1 with respect to the parent compounds.
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Affiliation(s)
- Alessandra Cipriano
- Department of PharmacyUniversity of Salernovia Giovanni Paolo II 13284084Fisciano (SA)Italy
| | - Ciro Milite
- Department of PharmacyUniversity of Salernovia Giovanni Paolo II 13284084Fisciano (SA)Italy
| | - Alessandra Feoli
- Department of PharmacyUniversity of Salernovia Giovanni Paolo II 13284084Fisciano (SA)Italy
| | - Monica Viviano
- Department of PharmacyUniversity of Salernovia Giovanni Paolo II 13284084Fisciano (SA)Italy
| | - Giacomo Pepe
- Department of PharmacyUniversity of Salernovia Giovanni Paolo II 13284084Fisciano (SA)Italy
| | - Pietro Campiglia
- Department of PharmacyUniversity of Salernovia Giovanni Paolo II 13284084Fisciano (SA)Italy
| | - Giuliana Sarno
- Department of PharmacyUniversity of Salernovia Giovanni Paolo II 13284084Fisciano (SA)Italy
| | - Sarah Picaud
- Nuffield Department of MedicineOxford UniversityOX3 7DQOxfordUK
| | - Satomi Imaide
- Division of Biological Chemistry and Drug DiscoverySchool of Life SciencesUniversity of DundeeDow StreetDundeeDD1 5EH, ScotlandUK,Discovery Technology Research LaboratoriesOno Pharmaceutical Co., Ltd.618-8585OsakaJapan
| | - Nikolai Makukhin
- Division of Biological Chemistry and Drug DiscoverySchool of Life SciencesUniversity of DundeeDow StreetDundeeDD1 5EH, ScotlandUK,Oncology R&DTumour Targeted DeliveryAstraZenecaQMB Innovation Centre42 New RoadLondonE1 2AXUK
| | | | - Alessio Ciulli
- Division of Biological Chemistry and Drug DiscoverySchool of Life SciencesUniversity of DundeeDow StreetDundeeDD1 5EH, ScotlandUK
| | - Sabrina Castellano
- Department of PharmacyUniversity of Salernovia Giovanni Paolo II 13284084Fisciano (SA)Italy
| | - Gianluca Sbardella
- Department of PharmacyUniversity of Salernovia Giovanni Paolo II 13284084Fisciano (SA)Italy
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Identification of highly efficacious PROTACs targeting BRD4 against acute myeloid leukemia: Design, synthesis, and biological evaluations. CHINESE CHEM LETT 2022. [DOI: 10.1016/j.cclet.2022.107923] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/22/2022]
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18
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Kargbo R. Therapeutic and Effective CURE-PRO Molecules for E3 Ligase-Mediated Targeted Protein Degradation. ACS Med Chem Lett 2022; 13:1206-1208. [PMID: 35978695 PMCID: PMC9377323 DOI: 10.1021/acsmedchemlett.2c00315] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/11/2022] [Indexed: 11/28/2022] Open
Affiliation(s)
- Robert
B. Kargbo
- Usona Institute, 2800 Woods Hollow
Road, Fitchburg, Wisconsin 53711-5300, United
States
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