1
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Zhu W, Liu C, Xi K, Li A, Shen LA, Li Y, Jia M, He Y, Chen G, Liu C, Chen Y, Chen K, Sun F, Zhang D, Duan C, Wang H, Wang D, Zhao Y, Meng X, Zhu D. Discovery of Novel 1-Phenylpiperidine Urea-Containing Derivatives Inhibiting β-Catenin/BCL9 Interaction and Exerting Antitumor Efficacy through the Activation of Antigen Presentation of cDC1 Cells. J Med Chem 2024. [PMID: 38912577 DOI: 10.1021/acs.jmedchem.3c02079] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 06/25/2024]
Abstract
Aberrant activation of the Wnt/β-catenin signaling is associated with tumor development, and blocking β-catenin/BCL9 is a novel strategy for oncogenic Wnt/β-catenin signaling. Herein, we presented two novel β-catenin variations and exposed conformational dynamics in several β-catenin crystal structures at the BCL9 binding site. Furthermore, we identified a class of novel urea-containing compounds targeting β-catenin/BCL9 interaction. Notably, the binding modalities of inhibitors were greatly affected by the conformational dynamics of β-catenin. Among them, 28 had a strong affinity for β-catenin (Kd = 82 nM), the most potent inhibitor reported. In addition, 13 and 35 not only activate T cells but also promote the antigen presentation of cDC1, showing robust antitumor efficacy in the CT26 model. Collectively, our study demonstrated a series of potent small-molecule inhibitors targeting β-catenin/BCL9, which can enhance antigen presentation and activate cDC1 cells, delivering a potential strategy for boosting innate and adaptive immunity to overcome immunotherapy resistance.
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Affiliation(s)
- Wenhua Zhu
- Anhui University of Chinese Medicine, Hefei 230012, China
- Yangtze Delta Drug Advanced Research Institute and Yangtze Delta Pharmaceutical College, Nantong 226133, China
| | - Cuiting Liu
- Anhui University of Chinese Medicine, Hefei 230012, China
- Yangtze Delta Drug Advanced Research Institute and Yangtze Delta Pharmaceutical College, Nantong 226133, China
| | - Kang Xi
- Anhui University of Chinese Medicine, Hefei 230012, China
- Yangtze Delta Drug Advanced Research Institute and Yangtze Delta Pharmaceutical College, Nantong 226133, China
| | - Anqi Li
- School of Basic Medical Sciences, Fudan University, Shanghai 201210, China
| | - Li-An Shen
- School of Basic Medical Sciences, Fudan University, Shanghai 201210, China
| | - Yana Li
- Anhui University of Chinese Medicine, Hefei 230012, China
- Yangtze Delta Drug Advanced Research Institute and Yangtze Delta Pharmaceutical College, Nantong 226133, China
| | - Miaomiao Jia
- Anhui University of Chinese Medicine, Hefei 230012, China
- Yangtze Delta Drug Advanced Research Institute and Yangtze Delta Pharmaceutical College, Nantong 226133, China
| | - Yangbo He
- Anhui University of Chinese Medicine, Hefei 230012, China
- Yangtze Delta Drug Advanced Research Institute and Yangtze Delta Pharmaceutical College, Nantong 226133, China
| | - Gang Chen
- Anhui University of Chinese Medicine, Hefei 230012, China
- Yangtze Delta Drug Advanced Research Institute and Yangtze Delta Pharmaceutical College, Nantong 226133, China
| | - Chenglong Liu
- School of Basic Medical Sciences, Fudan University, Shanghai 201210, China
| | - Yangqiang Chen
- Anhui University of Chinese Medicine, Hefei 230012, China
- Yangtze Delta Drug Advanced Research Institute and Yangtze Delta Pharmaceutical College, Nantong 226133, China
| | - Kai Chen
- Shanghai Jiao Tong University, Shanghai 201210, China
| | - Fan Sun
- Shanghai Jiao Tong University, Shanghai 201210, China
| | - Daizhou Zhang
- Shandong Academy of Pharmaceutical Science, Jinan 250101, China
| | - Chonggang Duan
- Shandong Academy of Pharmaceutical Science, Jinan 250101, China
| | - Heng Wang
- School of Basic Medical Sciences, Fudan University, Shanghai 201210, China
| | | | - Yujun Zhao
- State Key Laboratory of Drug Research and Small-Molecule Drug Research Center, Shanghai Institute of Materia Medica, Chinese Academy of Sciences, 555 Zuchongzhi Rd., Shanghai 201203, China
| | - Xiangjing Meng
- Shandong Academy of Pharmaceutical Science, Jinan 250101, China
| | - Di Zhu
- School of Basic Medical Sciences, Fudan University, Shanghai 201210, China
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2
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Tan L, Hirte S, Palmacci V, Stork C, Kirchmair J. Tackling assay interference associated with small molecules. Nat Rev Chem 2024; 8:319-339. [PMID: 38622244 DOI: 10.1038/s41570-024-00593-3] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 02/29/2024] [Indexed: 04/17/2024]
Abstract
Biochemical and cell-based assays are essential to discovering and optimizing efficacious and safe drugs, agrochemicals and cosmetics. However, false assay readouts stemming from colloidal aggregation, chemical reactivity, chelation, light signal attenuation and emission, membrane disruption, and other interference mechanisms remain a considerable challenge in screening synthetic compounds and natural products. To address assay interference, a range of powerful experimental approaches are available and in silico methods are now gaining traction. This Review begins with an overview of the scope and limitations of experimental approaches for tackling assay interference. It then focuses on theoretical methods, discusses strategies for their integration with experimental approaches, and provides recommendations for best practices. The Review closes with a summary of the critical facts and an outlook on potential future developments.
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Affiliation(s)
- Lu Tan
- Drug Discovery Sciences, Boehringer Ingelheim RCV GmbH & Co KG, Vienna, Austria
| | - Steffen Hirte
- Department of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Division of Pharmaceutical Chemistry, Faculty of Life Sciences, University of Vienna, Vienna, Austria
- Vienna Doctoral School of Pharmaceutical, Nutritional and Sport Sciences (PhaNuSpo), University of Vienna, Vienna, Austria
| | - Vincenzo Palmacci
- Department of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Division of Pharmaceutical Chemistry, Faculty of Life Sciences, University of Vienna, Vienna, Austria
- Vienna Doctoral School of Pharmaceutical, Nutritional and Sport Sciences (PhaNuSpo), University of Vienna, Vienna, Austria
| | - Conrad Stork
- Department of Informatics, Center for Bioinformatics, Faculty of Mathematics, Informatics and Natural Sciences, Universität Hamburg, Hamburg, Germany
- BASF SE, Ludwigshafen am Rhein, Germany
| | - Johannes Kirchmair
- Department of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Division of Pharmaceutical Chemistry, Faculty of Life Sciences, University of Vienna, Vienna, Austria.
- Christian Doppler Laboratory for Molecular Informatics in the Biosciences, Department for Pharmaceutical Sciences, University of Vienna, Vienna, Austria.
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3
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Su G, Wang D, Yang Q, Kong L, Ju X, Yang Q, Zhu Y, Zhang S, Li Y. Cepharanthine suppresses APC-mutant colorectal cancers by down-regulating the expression of β-catenin. NATURAL PRODUCTS AND BIOPROSPECTING 2024; 14:18. [PMID: 38421454 PMCID: PMC10904711 DOI: 10.1007/s13659-024-00443-1] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/19/2024] [Accepted: 02/23/2024] [Indexed: 03/02/2024]
Abstract
The aberrant activation of the Wnt/β-catenin signaling pathway is closely associated with the development of various carcinomas, especially colorectal cancers (CRCs), where adenomatous colorectal polyposis (APC) mutations are the most frequently observed, which limits the anti-tumor efficiency of inhibitors targeting the upstream of Wnt/β-catenin pathway. The anti-tumor activity of the naturally occurring alkaloid cepharanthine (CEP) extracted from the plant Stephania cepharantha Hayata has been reported in various types of tumors. We previously observed that its derivatives inhibited the Wnt/β-catenin signaling in liver cancer; however, the specific mechanism remains unknown. In this study, we confirmed CEP can effectively inhibit APC-mutant CRC cell lines (SW480, SW620, LoVo) through disturbing of the Wnt/β-catenin signaling and elucidated the underlying mechanisms. Here, we demonstrate that CEP attenuates the Wnt/β-catenin signaling by decreasing the β-catenin, subsequently impeding the proliferation of APC-mutant CRCs. Moreover, CEP induced β-catenin transcription inhibition rather than the instability of β-catenin protein and mRNA contributes to reduction of β-catenin. Taken together, our findings identify CEP as the first β-catenin transcriptional inhibitor in the modulation of Wnt/β-catenin signaling and indicate CEP as a potential therapeutic option for the treatment of APC-mutated CRCs.
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Affiliation(s)
- Guifeng Su
- State Key Laboratory of Phytochemistry and Plant Resources in West China, Kunming Institute of Botany, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Kunming, 650201, People's Republic of China
- Key Laboratory of Medicinal Chemistry for Natural Resource, Ministry of Education, Yunnan Key Laboratory of Research and Development for Natural Products, School of Pharmacy, Yunnan University, Kunming, 650500, People's Republic of China
- University of Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing, 100049, People's Republic of China
| | - Dan Wang
- Key Laboratory of Medicinal Chemistry for Natural Resource, Ministry of Education, Yunnan Key Laboratory of Research and Development for Natural Products, School of Pharmacy, Yunnan University, Kunming, 650500, People's Republic of China
| | - Qianqing Yang
- Key Laboratory of Medicinal Chemistry for Natural Resource, Ministry of Education, Yunnan Key Laboratory of Research and Development for Natural Products, School of Pharmacy, Yunnan University, Kunming, 650500, People's Republic of China
| | - Lingmei Kong
- Key Laboratory of Medicinal Chemistry for Natural Resource, Ministry of Education, Yunnan Key Laboratory of Research and Development for Natural Products, School of Pharmacy, Yunnan University, Kunming, 650500, People's Republic of China
| | - Xiaoman Ju
- State Key Laboratory of Phytochemistry and Plant Resources in West China, Kunming Institute of Botany, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Kunming, 650201, People's Republic of China
- University of Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing, 100049, People's Republic of China
| | - Qihong Yang
- State Key Laboratory of Phytochemistry and Plant Resources in West China, Kunming Institute of Botany, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Kunming, 650201, People's Republic of China
- University of Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing, 100049, People's Republic of China
| | - Yiying Zhu
- Key Laboratory of Medicinal Chemistry for Natural Resource, Ministry of Education, Yunnan Key Laboratory of Research and Development for Natural Products, School of Pharmacy, Yunnan University, Kunming, 650500, People's Republic of China
| | - Shaohua Zhang
- Key Laboratory of Medicinal Chemistry for Natural Resource, Ministry of Education, Yunnan Key Laboratory of Research and Development for Natural Products, School of Pharmacy, Yunnan University, Kunming, 650500, People's Republic of China
| | - Yan Li
- Key Laboratory of Medicinal Chemistry for Natural Resource, Ministry of Education, Yunnan Key Laboratory of Research and Development for Natural Products, School of Pharmacy, Yunnan University, Kunming, 650500, People's Republic of China.
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4
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Xiao M, Lv S, Zhu C. Bacterial Patterning: A Promising Biofabrication Technique. ACS APPLIED BIO MATERIALS 2024. [PMID: 38408887 DOI: 10.1021/acsabm.4c00056] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 02/28/2024]
Abstract
Bacterial patterning has emerged as a pivotal biofabrication technique in the biomedical field. In the past 2 decades, a diverse array of bacterial patterning approaches have been developed to enable the precise manipulation of the spatial distribution of bacterial patterns for various applications. Despite the significance of these advancements, there is a deficiency of review articles providing an overview of bacterial patterning technologies. In this mini-review, we systematically summarize the progress of bacterial patterning over the past 2 decades. This review commences with an elucidation of the definition and fundamental principles of bacterial patterning. Subsequently, we introduce the established bacterial patterning strategies, accompanied by discussions about the advantages and limitations of each approach. Furthermore, we showcase the biomedical applications of these strategies, highlighting their efficacy in spatial control of biofilms, biosensing, and biointervention. Finally, this mini-review is concluded with a summary and an outlook on future challenges and opportunities. It is anticipated that this mini-review can serve as a concise guide for those who are interested in this exciting and rapidly evolving research area.
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Affiliation(s)
- Minghui Xiao
- Key Laboratory of Functional Polymer Materials of Ministry of Education, State Key Laboratory of Medicinal Chemical Biology, Tianjin Key Laboratory of Functional Polymer Materials, Frontiers Science Center for New Organic Matter, College of Chemistry, Nankai University, Tianjin 300071, China
| | - Shuyi Lv
- Key Laboratory of Functional Polymer Materials of Ministry of Education, State Key Laboratory of Medicinal Chemical Biology, Tianjin Key Laboratory of Functional Polymer Materials, Frontiers Science Center for New Organic Matter, College of Chemistry, Nankai University, Tianjin 300071, China
| | - Chunlei Zhu
- Key Laboratory of Functional Polymer Materials of Ministry of Education, State Key Laboratory of Medicinal Chemical Biology, Tianjin Key Laboratory of Functional Polymer Materials, Frontiers Science Center for New Organic Matter, College of Chemistry, Nankai University, Tianjin 300071, China
- Beijing National Laboratory for Molecular Sciences, Beijing 100190, China
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5
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Dev A, Vachher M, Prasad CP. β-catenin inhibitors in cancer therapeutics: intricacies and way forward. Bioengineered 2023; 14:2251696. [PMID: 37655825 PMCID: PMC10478749 DOI: 10.1080/21655979.2023.2251696] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/21/2022] [Revised: 08/19/2023] [Accepted: 08/21/2023] [Indexed: 09/02/2023] Open
Abstract
β-catenin is an evolutionary conserved, quintessential, multifaceted protein that plays vital roles in cellular homeostasis, embryonic development, organogenesis, stem cell maintenance, cell proliferation, migration, differentiation, apoptosis, and pathogenesis of various human diseases including cancer. β-catenin manifests both signaling and adhesive features. It acts as a pivotal player in intracellular signaling as a component of versatile WNT signaling cascade involved in embryonic development, homeostasis as well as in carcinogenesis. It is also involved in Ca2+ dependent cell adhesion via interaction with E-cadherin at the adherens junctions. Aberrant β-catenin expression and its nuclear accumulation promote the transcription of various oncogenes including c-Myc and cyclinD1, thereby contributing to tumor initiation, development, and progression. β-catenin's expression is closely regulated at various levels including its stability, sub-cellular localization, as well as transcriptional activity. Understanding the molecular mechanisms of regulation of β-catenin and its atypical expression will provide researchers not only the novel insights into the pathogenesis and progression of cancer but also will help in deciphering new therapeutic avenues. In the present review, we have summarized the dual functions of β-catenin, its role in signaling, associated mutations as well as its role in carcinogenesis and tumor progression of various cancers. Additionally, we have discussed the challenges associated with targeting β-catenin molecule with the presently available drugs and suggested the possible way forward in designing new therapeutic alternatives against this oncogene.
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Affiliation(s)
- Arundhathi Dev
- Department of Medical Oncology (Laboratory), DR BRAIRCH, All India Institute of Medical Sciences, New Delhi, India
| | - Meenakshi Vachher
- Department of Biochemistry, Institute of Home Economics, University of Delhi, New Delhi, India
| | - Chandra Prakash Prasad
- Department of Medical Oncology (Laboratory), DR BRAIRCH, All India Institute of Medical Sciences, New Delhi, India
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6
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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.
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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
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7
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Komatsu D, Yamada K, Hanamoto T. Iodine-promoted synthesis of CF 3-substituted dihydroimidazobenzimidazole and CF 3-dihydroimidazoindole via C-N bond formation. Org Biomol Chem 2023; 21:6762-6771. [PMID: 37561059 DOI: 10.1039/d3ob01124k] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 08/11/2023]
Abstract
The iodine-promoted cyclization of various N-(2-CF3-2-NHTs)ethylbenzimidazoles and N-(2-CF3-2-NHTs)ethylindoles proceeded smoothly and efficiently under mild basic conditions. This reaction did not require transition metals and afforded the corresponding CF3-dihydroimidazobenzimidazoles and CF3-dihydroimidazoindoles in 85-93% and 42-82% yields, respectively.
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Affiliation(s)
- Daiki Komatsu
- Department of Chemistry and Applied Chemistry, Saga University, Honjyo-machi 1, Saga 840-8502, Japan.
| | - Kasumi Yamada
- Department of Chemistry and Applied Chemistry, Saga University, Honjyo-machi 1, Saga 840-8502, Japan.
| | - Takeshi Hanamoto
- Department of Chemistry and Applied Chemistry, Saga University, Honjyo-machi 1, Saga 840-8502, Japan.
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8
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Nalli M, Di Magno L, Wen Y, Liu X, D’Ambrosio M, Puxeddu M, Parisi A, Sebastiani J, Sorato A, Coluccia A, Ripa S, Di Pastena F, Capelli D, Montanari R, Masci D, Urbani A, Naro C, Sette C, Orlando V, D’Angelo S, Biagioni S, Bigogno C, Dondio G, Pastore A, Stornaiuolo M, Canettieri G, Liu T, Silvestri R, La Regina G. Novel N-(Heterocyclylphenyl)benzensulfonamide Sharing an Unreported Binding Site with T-Cell Factor 4 at the β-Catenin Armadillo Repeats Domain as an Anticancer Agent. ACS Pharmacol Transl Sci 2023; 6:1087-1103. [PMID: 37470018 PMCID: PMC10353061 DOI: 10.1021/acsptsci.3c00092] [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: 05/17/2023] [Indexed: 07/21/2023]
Abstract
Despite intensive efforts, no inhibitors of the Wnt/β-catenin signaling pathway have been approved so far for the clinical treatment of cancer. We synthesized novel N-(heterocyclylphenyl)benzenesulfonamides as β-catenin inhibitors. Compounds 5-10 showed strong inhibition of the luciferase activity. Compounds 5 and 6 inhibited the MDA-MB-231, HCC1806, and HCC1937 TNBC cells. Compound 9 induced in vitro cell death in SW480 and HCT116 cells and in vivo tumorigenicity of a human colorectal cancer line HCT116. In a co-immunoprecipitation study in HCT116 cells transfected with Myc-tagged T-cell factor 4 (Tcf-4), compound 9 abrogated the association between β-catenin and Tcf-4. The crystallographic analysis of the β-catenin Armadillo repeats domain revealed that compound 9 and Tcf-4 share a common binding site within the hotspot binding region close to Lys508. To our knowledge, compound 9 is the first small molecule ligand of this region to be reported. These results highlight the potential of this novel class of β-catenin inhibitors as anticancer agents.
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Affiliation(s)
- Marianna Nalli
- Laboratory
affiliated to Istituto Pasteur Italia—Fondazione Cenci Bolognetti,
Department of Drug Chemistry and Technologies, Sapienza University of Rome, Piazzale Aldo Moro 5, I-00185 Rome, Italy
| | - Laura Di Magno
- Laboratory
affiliated to Istituto Pasteur Italia—Fondazione Cenci Bolognetti,
Department of Molecular Medicine Sapienza, University of Rome, Viale Regina Elena 291, I-00161 Rome, Italy
| | - Yichao Wen
- Shanghai
Geriatric Institute of Chinese Medicine, Shanghai University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, 365 South Xiangyang Road, 200031 Shanghai, China
| | - Xin Liu
- Department
of Dermatology, Yueyang Hospital of Integrated Traditional Chinese
and Western Medicine, Shanghai University
of Traditional Chinese Medicine, 200437 Shanghai, China
| | - Michele D’Ambrosio
- Laboratory
affiliated to Istituto Pasteur Italia—Fondazione Cenci Bolognetti,
Department of Drug Chemistry and Technologies, Sapienza University of Rome, Piazzale Aldo Moro 5, I-00185 Rome, Italy
| | - Michela Puxeddu
- Laboratory
affiliated to Istituto Pasteur Italia—Fondazione Cenci Bolognetti,
Department of Drug Chemistry and Technologies, Sapienza University of Rome, Piazzale Aldo Moro 5, I-00185 Rome, Italy
| | - Anastasia Parisi
- Laboratory
affiliated to Istituto Pasteur Italia—Fondazione Cenci Bolognetti,
Department of Drug Chemistry and Technologies, Sapienza University of Rome, Piazzale Aldo Moro 5, I-00185 Rome, Italy
| | - Jessica Sebastiani
- Laboratory
affiliated to Istituto Pasteur Italia—Fondazione Cenci Bolognetti,
Department of Drug Chemistry and Technologies, Sapienza University of Rome, Piazzale Aldo Moro 5, I-00185 Rome, Italy
| | - Andrea Sorato
- Laboratory
affiliated to Istituto Pasteur Italia—Fondazione Cenci Bolognetti,
Department of Drug Chemistry and Technologies, Sapienza University of Rome, Piazzale Aldo Moro 5, I-00185 Rome, Italy
| | - Antonio Coluccia
- Laboratory
affiliated to Istituto Pasteur Italia—Fondazione Cenci Bolognetti,
Department of Drug Chemistry and Technologies, Sapienza University of Rome, Piazzale Aldo Moro 5, I-00185 Rome, Italy
| | - Silvia Ripa
- Laboratory
affiliated to Istituto Pasteur Italia—Fondazione Cenci Bolognetti,
Department of Molecular Medicine Sapienza, University of Rome, Viale Regina Elena 291, I-00161 Rome, Italy
| | - Fiorella Di Pastena
- Laboratory
affiliated to Istituto Pasteur Italia—Fondazione Cenci Bolognetti,
Department of Molecular Medicine Sapienza, University of Rome, Viale Regina Elena 291, I-00161 Rome, Italy
| | - Davide Capelli
- CNR—Institute
of Crystallography, Via
Salaria—km 29.300, Monterotondo, 00015 Rome, Italy
| | - Roberta Montanari
- CNR—Institute
of Crystallography, Via
Salaria—km 29.300, Monterotondo, 00015 Rome, Italy
| | - Domiziana Masci
- Department
of Basic Biotechnological Sciences, Intensivological and Perioperative
Clinics, Catholic University of the Sacred
Heart, Largo Francesco
Vito 1, 00168 Rome, Italy
| | - Andrea Urbani
- Department
of Basic Biotechnological Sciences, Intensivological and Perioperative
Clinics, Catholic University of the Sacred
Heart, Largo Francesco
Vito 1, 00168 Rome, Italy
| | - Chiara Naro
- Department
of Basic Biotechnological Sciences, Intensivological and Perioperative
Clinics, Catholic University of the Sacred
Heart, Largo Francesco
Vito 1, 00168 Rome, Italy
- GSTeP-Organoids
Research Core Facility, Fondazione Policlinico
Universitario A. Gemelli, IRCCS, 00168 Rome, Italy
| | - Claudio Sette
- Department
of Basic Biotechnological Sciences, Intensivological and Perioperative
Clinics, Catholic University of the Sacred
Heart, Largo Francesco
Vito 1, 00168 Rome, Italy
- GSTeP-Organoids
Research Core Facility, Fondazione Policlinico
Universitario A. Gemelli, IRCCS, 00168 Rome, Italy
| | - Viviana Orlando
- Department
of Biology and Biotechnologies “Charles Darwin”, Piazzale Aldo Moro 5, I-00185 Roma, Italy
| | - Sara D’Angelo
- Department
of Biology and Biotechnologies “Charles Darwin”, Piazzale Aldo Moro 5, I-00185 Roma, Italy
| | - Stefano Biagioni
- Department
of Biology and Biotechnologies “Charles Darwin”, Piazzale Aldo Moro 5, I-00185 Roma, Italy
| | - Chiara Bigogno
- Aphad
SrL, Via della Resistenza
65, 20090 Buccinasco, Italy
| | - Giulio Dondio
- Aphad
SrL, Via della Resistenza
65, 20090 Buccinasco, Italy
| | - Arianna Pastore
- Department
of Pharmacy, University of Naples “Federico
II”, Via Domenico
Montesano, 49, 80131 Naples, Italy
| | - Mariano Stornaiuolo
- Department
of Pharmacy, University of Naples “Federico
II”, Via Domenico
Montesano, 49, 80131 Naples, Italy
| | - Gianluca Canettieri
- Laboratory
affiliated to Istituto Pasteur Italia—Fondazione Cenci Bolognetti,
Department of Molecular Medicine Sapienza, University of Rome, Viale Regina Elena 291, I-00161 Rome, Italy
| | - Te Liu
- Shanghai
Geriatric Institute of Chinese Medicine, Shanghai University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, 365 South Xiangyang Road, 200031 Shanghai, China
| | - Romano Silvestri
- Laboratory
affiliated to Istituto Pasteur Italia—Fondazione Cenci Bolognetti,
Department of Drug Chemistry and Technologies, Sapienza University of Rome, Piazzale Aldo Moro 5, I-00185 Rome, Italy
| | - Giuseppe La Regina
- Laboratory
affiliated to Istituto Pasteur Italia—Fondazione Cenci Bolognetti,
Department of Drug Chemistry and Technologies, Sapienza University of Rome, Piazzale Aldo Moro 5, I-00185 Rome, Italy
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9
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Pećina-Šlaus N, Aničić S, Bukovac A, Kafka A. Wnt Signaling Inhibitors and Their Promising Role in Tumor Treatment. Int J Mol Sci 2023; 24:ijms24076733. [PMID: 37047705 PMCID: PMC10095594 DOI: 10.3390/ijms24076733] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/14/2023] [Revised: 03/30/2023] [Accepted: 03/31/2023] [Indexed: 04/07/2023] Open
Abstract
In a continuous search for the improvement of antitumor therapies, the inhibition of the Wnt signaling pathway has been recognized as a promising target. The altered functioning of the Wnt signaling in human tumors points to the strategy of the inhibition of its activity that would impact the clinical outcomes and survival of patients. Because the Wnt pathway is often mutated or epigenetically altered in tumors, which promotes its activation, inhibitors of Wnt signaling are being intensively investigated. It has been shown that knocking down specific components of the Wnt pathway has inhibitory effects on tumor growth in vivo and in vitro. Thus, similar effects are expected from the application of Wnt inhibitors. In the last decades, molecules acting as inhibitors on the pathway’s specific molecular levels have been identified and characterized. This review will discuss the inhibitors of the canonical Wnt pathway, summarize knowledge on their effectiveness as therapeutics, and debate their side effects. The role of the components frequently mutated in various tumors that are principal targets for Wnt inhibitors is also going to be brought to the reader’s attention. Some of the molecules identified as Wnt pathway inhibitors have reached early stages of clinical trials, and some have only just been discovered. All things considered, inhibition of the Wnt signaling pathway shows potential for the development of future therapies.
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Affiliation(s)
- Nives Pećina-Šlaus
- Laboratory of Neuro-Oncology, Croatian Institute for Brain Research, School of Medicine, University of Zagreb, Šalata 12, 10000 Zagreb, Croatia
- Department of Biology, School of Medicine, University of Zagreb, Šalata 3, 10000 Zagreb, Croatia
| | - Sara Aničić
- Department of Physiology and Immunology, School of Medicine, University of Zagreb, Šalata 3, 10000 Zagreb, Croatia
- Laboratory for Molecular Immunology, Croatian Institute for Brain Research, School of Medicine, University of Zagreb, 10000 Zagreb, Croatia
| | - Anja Bukovac
- Laboratory of Neuro-Oncology, Croatian Institute for Brain Research, School of Medicine, University of Zagreb, Šalata 12, 10000 Zagreb, Croatia
- Department of Biology, School of Medicine, University of Zagreb, Šalata 3, 10000 Zagreb, Croatia
| | - Anja Kafka
- Laboratory of Neuro-Oncology, Croatian Institute for Brain Research, School of Medicine, University of Zagreb, Šalata 12, 10000 Zagreb, Croatia
- Department of Biology, School of Medicine, University of Zagreb, Šalata 3, 10000 Zagreb, Croatia
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10
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Zhang H, Liu C, Chen Q, Shen LA, Xiao W, Li J, Wang Y, Zhu D, Zhang Q, Li J. Discovery of Novel 3-Phenylpiperidine Derivatives Targeting the β-Catenin/B-Cell Lymphoma 9 Interaction as a Single Agent and in Combination with the Anti-PD-1 Antibody for the Treatment of Colorectal Cancer. J Med Chem 2023; 66:1349-1379. [PMID: 36630177 DOI: 10.1021/acs.jmedchem.2c01568] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/12/2023]
Abstract
Direct disruption of the β-catenin/B-cell lymphoma 9 (BCL9) protein-protein interaction (PPI) is a potential strategy for colorectal cancer (CRC) treatment through inhibiting oncogenic Wnt activity. Herein, a series of 3-phenylpiperidine derivatives were synthesized and evaluated as β-catenin/BCL9 PPI inhibitors. Among them, compound 41 showed the best IC50 (0.72 μM) in a competitive fluorescence polarization assay and a KD value of 0.26 μM for the β-catenin protein. This compound selectively inhibited the growth of CRC cells, suppressed Wnt signaling transactivation, and downregulated oncogenic Wnt target gene expression. In vivo, 41 showed potent anti-CRC activity and promoted the infiltration and function of cytotoxic T lymphocytes while decreasing the infiltration of regulatory T-cells (Tregs). Furthermore, the combination of 41 and the anti-PD-1 antibody (Ab) efficiently enhanced anti-CRC efficacy, first verifying the in vivo efficacy of the small-molecule β-catenin/BCL9 PPI inhibitor and anti-PD-1 Ab in combination.
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Affiliation(s)
- Hao Zhang
- School of Pharmacy, Fudan University, 826 Zhangheng Road, Shanghai 201203, China.,Novel Technology Center of Pharmaceutical Chemistry, Shanghai Institute of Pharmaceutical Industry Co., Ltd., China State Institute of Pharmaceutical Industry, 285 Gebai Ni Road, Shanghai 201203, China
| | - Chenglong Liu
- School of Pharmacy, Fudan University, 826 Zhangheng Road, Shanghai 201203, China
| | - Qiushi Chen
- Novel Technology Center of Pharmaceutical Chemistry, Shanghai Institute of Pharmaceutical Industry Co., Ltd., China State Institute of Pharmaceutical Industry, 285 Gebai Ni Road, Shanghai 201203, China.,School of Chemistry and Chemical Engineering, Shanghai University of Engineering Science, 333 Longteng Road, Shanghai 201620, China
| | - Li-An Shen
- School of Pharmacy, Fudan University, 826 Zhangheng Road, Shanghai 201203, China
| | - Wenting Xiao
- School of Pharmacy, Fudan University, 826 Zhangheng Road, Shanghai 201203, China.,Novel Technology Center of Pharmaceutical Chemistry, Shanghai Institute of Pharmaceutical Industry Co., Ltd., China State Institute of Pharmaceutical Industry, 285 Gebai Ni Road, Shanghai 201203, China
| | - Jiayi Li
- Novel Technology Center of Pharmaceutical Chemistry, Shanghai Institute of Pharmaceutical Industry Co., Ltd., China State Institute of Pharmaceutical Industry, 285 Gebai Ni Road, Shanghai 201203, China.,School of Chemistry and Chemical Engineering, Shanghai University of Engineering Science, 333 Longteng Road, Shanghai 201620, China
| | - Yonghui Wang
- School of Pharmacy, Fudan University, 826 Zhangheng Road, Shanghai 201203, China
| | - Di Zhu
- School of Pharmacy, Fudan University, 826 Zhangheng Road, Shanghai 201203, China.,Department of Pharmacology, School of Basic Medical Science, Fudan University, 138 Yixue Yuan Road, Shanghai 201100, China
| | - Qingwei Zhang
- Novel Technology Center of Pharmaceutical Chemistry, Shanghai Institute of Pharmaceutical Industry Co., Ltd., China State Institute of Pharmaceutical Industry, 285 Gebai Ni Road, Shanghai 201203, China
| | - Jianqi Li
- Novel Technology Center of Pharmaceutical Chemistry, Shanghai Institute of Pharmaceutical Industry Co., Ltd., China State Institute of Pharmaceutical Industry, 285 Gebai Ni Road, Shanghai 201203, China
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11
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Zhang H, Liu C, Zhu D, Zhang Q, Li J. Medicinal Chemistry Strategies for the Development of Inhibitors Disrupting β-Catenin's Interactions with Its Nuclear Partners. J Med Chem 2023; 66:1-31. [PMID: 36583662 DOI: 10.1021/acs.jmedchem.2c01016] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/31/2022]
Abstract
Dysregulation of the Wnt/β-catenin signaling pathway is strongly associated with various aspects of cancer, including tumor initiation, proliferation, and metastasis as well as antitumor immunity, and presents a promising opportunity for cancer therapy. Wnt/β-catenin signaling activation increases nuclear dephosphorylated β-catenin levels, resulting in β-catenin binding to TCF and additional cotranscription factors, such as BCL9, CBP, and p300. Therefore, directly disrupting β-catenin's interactions with these nuclear partners holds promise for the effective and selective suppression of the aberrant activation of Wnt/β-catenin signaling. Herein, we summarize recent advances in biochemical techniques and medicinal chemistry strategies used to identify potent peptide-based and small-molecule inhibitors that directly disrupt β-catenin's interactions with its nuclear binding partners. We discuss the challenges involved in developing drug-like inhibitors that target the interactions of β-catenin and its nuclear binding partner into therapeutic agents.
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Affiliation(s)
- Hao Zhang
- School of Pharmacy, Fudan University, Shanghai 201203, China.,Novel Technology Center of Pharmaceutical Chemistry, Shanghai Institute of Pharmaceutical Industry Co., Ltd., China State Institute of Pharmaceutical Industry, Shanghai 201203, China
| | - Chenglong Liu
- School of Pharmacy, Fudan University, Shanghai 201203, China
| | - Di Zhu
- School of Pharmacy, Fudan University, Shanghai 201203, China.,Department of Pharmacology, School of Basic Medical Science, Fudan University, Shanghai 201100, China
| | - Qingwei Zhang
- Novel Technology Center of Pharmaceutical Chemistry, Shanghai Institute of Pharmaceutical Industry Co., Ltd., China State Institute of Pharmaceutical Industry, Shanghai 201203, China
| | - Jianqi Li
- Novel Technology Center of Pharmaceutical Chemistry, Shanghai Institute of Pharmaceutical Industry Co., Ltd., China State Institute of Pharmaceutical Industry, Shanghai 201203, China
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12
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Yang P, Zhu Y, Zheng Q, Meng S, Wu Y, Shuai W, Sun Q, Wang G. Recent advances of β-catenin small molecule inhibitors for cancer therapy: Current development and future perspectives. Eur J Med Chem 2022; 243:114789. [DOI: 10.1016/j.ejmech.2022.114789] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/26/2022] [Revised: 09/17/2022] [Accepted: 09/18/2022] [Indexed: 11/28/2022]
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13
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Koelman EMR, Yeste-Vázquez A, Grossmann TN. Targeting the interaction of β-catenin and TCF/LEF transcription factors to inhibit oncogenic Wnt signaling. Bioorg Med Chem 2022; 70:116920. [PMID: 35841828 DOI: 10.1016/j.bmc.2022.116920] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/25/2022] [Revised: 07/05/2022] [Accepted: 07/06/2022] [Indexed: 11/02/2022]
Abstract
The Wnt/β-catenin signaling pathway is crucially involved in embryonic development, stem cell maintenance and tissue renewal. Hyperactivation of this pathway is associated with the development and progression of various types of cancers. The transcriptional coactivator β-catenin represents a pivotal component of the pathway and its interaction with transcription factors of the TCF/LEF family is central to pathway activation. Inhibition of this crucial protein-protein interaction via direct targeting of β-catenin is considered a promising strategy for the inactivation of oncogenic Wnt signaling. This review summarizes advances in the development of Wnt antagonists that have been shown to directly bind β-catenin.
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Affiliation(s)
- Emma M R Koelman
- Department of Chemistry and Pharmaceutical Sciences, VU University Amsterdam, Amsterdam, NL, The Netherlands
| | - Alejandro Yeste-Vázquez
- Department of Chemistry and Pharmaceutical Sciences, VU University Amsterdam, Amsterdam, NL, The Netherlands; Amsterdam Institute of Molecular and Life Sciences, VU University Amsterdam, Amsterdam, NL, The Netherlands
| | - Tom N Grossmann
- Department of Chemistry and Pharmaceutical Sciences, VU University Amsterdam, Amsterdam, NL, The Netherlands; Amsterdam Institute of Molecular and Life Sciences, VU University Amsterdam, Amsterdam, NL, The Netherlands.
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