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Wang Z, Che S, Yu Z. PROTAC: Novel degradable approach for different targets to treat breast cancer. Eur J Pharm Sci 2024; 198:106793. [PMID: 38740076 DOI: 10.1016/j.ejps.2024.106793] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/21/2024] [Revised: 04/22/2024] [Accepted: 05/05/2024] [Indexed: 05/16/2024]
Abstract
The revolutionary Proteolysis Targeting Chimera (PROTACs) have the exciting potential to reshape the pharmaceutical industry landscape by leveraging the ubiquitin-proteasome system for targeted protein degradation. Breast cancer, the most prevalent cancer in women, could be treated using PROTAC therapy. Although substantial work has been conducted, there is not yet a comprehensive overview or progress update on PROTAC therapy for breast cancer. Hence, in this article, we've compiled recent research progress focusing on different breast cancer target proteins, such as estrogen receptor (ER), BET, CDK, HER2, PARP, EZH2, etc. This resource aims to serve as a guide for future PROTAC-based breast cancer treatment design.
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Affiliation(s)
- Zhenjie Wang
- Guangdong Provincial Key Laboratory of New Drug Screening, School of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Southern Medical University, Guangzhou 510515, PR China; Office of Drug Clinical Trials, The People's Hospital of Gaozhou, Maoming, 525200, PR China
| | - Siyao Che
- Hepatological Surgery Department, The People's Hospital of Gaozhou, Maoming, 525200, PR China.
| | - Zhiqiang Yu
- Department of Laboratory Medicine, Dongguan Institute of Clinical Cancer Research, The Tenth Affiliated Hospital of Southern Medical University (Dongguan People's Hospital), Dongguan 523018, PR China.
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2
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Wang Y, Sun M, He Z, Han Y, Song Y, Liang J, Wang H, Qin Y, Deng Z. Citrus polymethoxyflavones degrade estrogen receptor-alpha (ERα) and combine with tamoxifen for the treatment of estrogen receptor-positive breast cancer. Heliyon 2024; 10:e33104. [PMID: 39022050 PMCID: PMC11252954 DOI: 10.1016/j.heliyon.2024.e33104] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/29/2023] [Revised: 06/13/2024] [Accepted: 06/13/2024] [Indexed: 07/20/2024] Open
Abstract
Estrogen receptor-positive (ER+) breast cancer seriously endangers the women's physical and mental health worldwide and ER targeting therapy is vital. Here, we found that a citrus polymethoxyflavones (PMFs)-rich hydrolysate (C-H) and its major components (nobiletin and 3-methoxynobiletin) potently degrade ERα protein via the ubiquitin-proteasome pathway, thereby impairing the proliferation of ER+ breast cancer cells. Moreover, our study exhibited that C-H combined with tamoxifen (TAM) inhibited the cell proliferation of ER+ breast cancer in vitro. It was further confirmed that C-H decreased tumor growth of ER+ breast cancer in tumor-bearing 129 mice in vivo and improved the efficacy of tamoxifen. Our study revealed that the citrus PMFs have potential applications as pharmaceutical and healthcare products in breast cancer treatment by targeting ERα protein degradation.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yiyu Wang
- Hubei Key Laboratory of Natural Products Research and Development, College of Biological and Pharmaceutical Sciences, China Three Gorges University, Yichang 443002, China
- Hubei Key Laboratory of Tumor Microenvironment and Immunotherapy, College of Basic Medical Science, China Three Gorges University, Yichang 443002, China
| | - Meng Sun
- Hubei Key Laboratory of Natural Products Research and Development, College of Biological and Pharmaceutical Sciences, China Three Gorges University, Yichang 443002, China
| | - Zhong He
- Hubei Key Laboratory of Natural Products Research and Development, College of Biological and Pharmaceutical Sciences, China Three Gorges University, Yichang 443002, China
- Hubei Key Laboratory of Tumor Microenvironment and Immunotherapy, College of Basic Medical Science, China Three Gorges University, Yichang 443002, China
| | - Ying Han
- Hubei Key Laboratory of Natural Products Research and Development, College of Biological and Pharmaceutical Sciences, China Three Gorges University, Yichang 443002, China
| | - Yinhong Song
- Hubei Key Laboratory of Tumor Microenvironment and Immunotherapy, College of Basic Medical Science, China Three Gorges University, Yichang 443002, China
| | - Jianjia Liang
- Hubei Key Laboratory of Natural Products Research and Development, College of Biological and Pharmaceutical Sciences, China Three Gorges University, Yichang 443002, China
| | - Huimin Wang
- Hubei Key Laboratory of Natural Products Research and Development, College of Biological and Pharmaceutical Sciences, China Three Gorges University, Yichang 443002, China
| | - Ye Qin
- State Key Laboratory of Drug Research, Molecular Imaging Center, Shanghai Institute of Materia Medica, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Shanghai, 201203, China
| | - Zhangshuang Deng
- Hubei Key Laboratory of Natural Products Research and Development, College of Biological and Pharmaceutical Sciences, China Three Gorges University, Yichang 443002, China
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3
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Lehmann T, Schneider H, Tonillo J, Schanz J, Schwarz D, Schröter C, Jäger S, Kolmar H, Hecht S, Anderl J, Rasche N, Rieker M, Dickgiesser S. Welding PROxAb Shuttles: A Modular Approach for Generating Bispecific Antibodies via Site-Specific Protein-Protein Conjugation. Bioconjug Chem 2024; 35:780-789. [PMID: 38809610 DOI: 10.1021/acs.bioconjchem.4c00124] [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: 05/31/2024]
Abstract
Targeted protein degradation is an innovative therapeutic strategy to selectively eliminate disease-causing proteins. Exemplified by proteolysis-targeting chimeras (PROTACs), they have shown promise in overcoming drug resistance and targeting previously undruggable proteins. However, PROTACs face challenges, such as low oral bioavailability and limited selectivity. The recently published PROxAb Shuttle technology offers a solution enabling the targeted delivery of PROTACs using antibodies fused with PROTAC-binding domains derived from camelid single-domain antibodies (VHHs). Here, a modular approach to quickly generate PROxAb Shuttles by enzymatically coupling PROTAC-binding VHHs to off-the-shelf antibodies was developed. The resulting conjugates retained their target binding and internalization properties, and incubation with BRD4-targeting PROTACs resulted in formation of defined PROxAb-PROTAC complexes. These complexes selectively induced degradation of the BRD4 protein, resulting in cytotoxicity specifically to cells expressing the antibody's target. The chemoenzymatic approach described herein provides a versatile and efficient solution for generating antibody-VHH conjugates for targeted protein degradation applications, but it could also be used to combine antibodies and VHH binders to generate bispecific antibodies for further applications.
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Affiliation(s)
- Tanja Lehmann
- Clemens-Schöpf-Institut für Organische Chemie und Biochemie, Technische Universität Darmstadt, 64287 Darmstadt, Germany
- ADCs & Targeted NBE Therapeutics, Merck KGaA, 64293 Darmstadt , Germany
| | - Hendrik Schneider
- ADCs & Targeted NBE Therapeutics, Merck KGaA, 64293 Darmstadt , Germany
| | - Jason Tonillo
- ADCs & Targeted NBE Therapeutics, Merck KGaA, 64293 Darmstadt , Germany
| | - Jennifer Schanz
- ADCs & Targeted NBE Therapeutics, Merck KGaA, 64293 Darmstadt , Germany
| | - Daniel Schwarz
- Discovery Pharmacology, Merck KGaA, 64293 Darmstadt, Germany
| | | | - Sebastian Jäger
- ADCs & Targeted NBE Therapeutics, Merck KGaA, 64293 Darmstadt , Germany
| | - Harald Kolmar
- Clemens-Schöpf-Institut für Organische Chemie und Biochemie, Technische Universität Darmstadt, 64287 Darmstadt, Germany
| | - Stefan Hecht
- ADCs & Targeted NBE Therapeutics, Merck KGaA, 64293 Darmstadt , Germany
| | - Jan Anderl
- ADCs & Targeted NBE Therapeutics, Merck KGaA, 64293 Darmstadt , Germany
| | - Nicolas Rasche
- ADCs & Targeted NBE Therapeutics, Merck KGaA, 64293 Darmstadt , Germany
| | - Marcel Rieker
- ADCs & Targeted NBE Therapeutics, Merck KGaA, 64293 Darmstadt , Germany
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4
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Wu H, Murray J, Ishisoko N, Frommlet A, Deshmukh G, DiPasquale A, Mulvihill MM, Zhang D, Quinn JG, Blake RA, Fairbrother WJ, Fuhrmann J. Potency-Enhanced Peptidomimetic VHL Ligands with Improved Oral Bioavailability. J Med Chem 2024; 67:8585-8608. [PMID: 38809766 DOI: 10.1021/acs.jmedchem.3c02203] [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: 05/31/2024]
Abstract
The von Hippel-Lindau (VHL) protein plays a pivotal role in regulating the hypoxic stress response and has been extensively studied and utilized in the targeted protein degradation field, particularly in the context of bivalent degraders. In this study, we present a comprehensive peptidomimetic structure-activity relationship (SAR) approach, combined with cellular NanoBRET target engagement assays to enhance the existing VHL ligands. Through systematic modifications of the molecule, we identified the 1,2,3-triazole group as an optimal substitute of the left-hand side amide bond that yields 10-fold higher binding activity. Moreover, incorporating conformationally constrained alterations on the methylthiazole benzylamine moiety led to the development of highly potent VHL ligands with picomolar binding affinity and significantly improved oral bioavailability. We anticipate that our optimized VHL ligand, GNE7599, will serve as a valuable tool compound for investigating the VHL pathway and advancing the field of targeted protein degradation.
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Affiliation(s)
- Hao Wu
- Department of Early Discovery Biochemistry, Genentech, 1 DNA Way, South San Francisco, California 94080, United States
| | - Jeremy Murray
- Department of Structural Biology, Genentech, 1 DNA Way, South San Francisco, California 94080, United States
| | - Noriko Ishisoko
- Department of Biochemical & Cellular Pharmacology, Genentech, 1 DNA Way, South San Francisco, California 94080, United States
| | - Alexandra Frommlet
- Department of Biochemical & Cellular Pharmacology, Genentech, 1 DNA Way, South San Francisco, California 94080, United States
| | - Gauri Deshmukh
- Department of Drug Metabolism and Pharmacokinetics, Genentech, 1 DNA Way, South San Francisco, California 94080, United States
| | - Antonio DiPasquale
- Department of Small Molecule Pharmaceutical Sciences, Genentech, 1 DNA Way, South San Francisco, California 94080, United States
| | - Melinda M Mulvihill
- Department of Biochemical & Cellular Pharmacology, Genentech, 1 DNA Way, South San Francisco, California 94080, United States
| | - Donglu Zhang
- Department of Drug Metabolism and Pharmacokinetics, Genentech, 1 DNA Way, South San Francisco, California 94080, United States
| | - John G Quinn
- Department of Biochemical & Cellular Pharmacology, Genentech, 1 DNA Way, South San Francisco, California 94080, United States
| | - Robert A Blake
- Department of Biochemical & Cellular Pharmacology, Genentech, 1 DNA Way, South San Francisco, California 94080, United States
| | - Wayne J Fairbrother
- Department of Early Discovery Biochemistry, Genentech, 1 DNA Way, South San Francisco, California 94080, United States
| | - Jakob Fuhrmann
- Department of Early Discovery Biochemistry, Genentech, 1 DNA Way, South San Francisco, California 94080, United States
- Department of Discovery Chemistry, Genentech, 1 DNA Way, South San Francisco, California 94080, United States
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5
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Ma Y, Yang X, Ning K, Guo H. M1/M2 macrophage-targeted nanotechnology and PROTAC for the treatment of atherosclerosis. Life Sci 2024; 352:122811. [PMID: 38862062 DOI: 10.1016/j.lfs.2024.122811] [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: 01/05/2024] [Revised: 03/17/2024] [Accepted: 06/04/2024] [Indexed: 06/13/2024]
Abstract
Macrophages play key roles in atherosclerosis progression, and an imbalance in M1/M2 macrophages leads to unstable plaques; therefore, M1/M2 macrophage polarization-targeted treatments may serve as a new approach in the treatment of atherosclerosis. At present, there is little research on M1/M2 macrophage polarization-targeted nanotechnology. Proteolysis-targeting chimera (PROTAC) technology, a targeted protein degradation technology, mediates the degradation of target proteins and has been widely promoted in preclinical and clinical applications as a novel therapeutic modality. This review summarizes the recent studies on M1/M2 macrophage polarization-targeted nanotechnology, focusing on the mechanism and advantages of PROTACs in M1/M2 macrophage polarization as a new approach for the treatment of atherosclerosis.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yupeng Ma
- School of Integrative Medicine, Shanghai University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, No. 1200 Cailun Road, Shanghai 201203, China; School of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Shanghai University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, No. 1200 Cailun Road, Shanghai 201203, China
| | - Xiaofan Yang
- School of Integrative Medicine, Shanghai University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, No. 1200 Cailun Road, Shanghai 201203, China; School of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Shanghai University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, No. 1200 Cailun Road, Shanghai 201203, China
| | - Ke Ning
- School of Integrative Medicine, Shanghai University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, No. 1200 Cailun Road, Shanghai 201203, China; School of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Shanghai University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, No. 1200 Cailun Road, Shanghai 201203, China.
| | - Haidong Guo
- School of Integrative Medicine, Shanghai University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, No. 1200 Cailun Road, Shanghai 201203, China; School of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Shanghai University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, No. 1200 Cailun Road, Shanghai 201203, China.
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Du Y, Shi S, Shu C, He Y, Xu W, Wu D, Tian Y, Kong M, He J, Xie W, Qiu Y, Xu Y, Zou Y, Zhu Q. Discovery of novel EGFR-PROTACs capable of degradation of multiple EGFR-mutated proteins. Eur J Med Chem 2024; 272:116489. [PMID: 38759458 DOI: 10.1016/j.ejmech.2024.116489] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/19/2024] [Revised: 04/30/2024] [Accepted: 05/07/2024] [Indexed: 05/19/2024]
Abstract
Although three generations of Epidermal growth factor receptor (EGFR) - TK inhibitors have been approved for the treatment of Non-small-cell lung cancers (NSCLC), their clinical application is still largely hindered by acquired drug resistance mediated new EGFR mutations and side effects. The Proteolysis targeting chimera (PROTAC) technology has the potential to overcome acquired resistance from mutant EGFR through a novel mechanism of action. In this study, we developed the candidate degrader IV-3 by structural modifications of the lead compound 13, which exhibited limited antiproliferative activity against HCC-827 cells. Compared to compound 13, IV-3 exhibited remarkable anti-proliferative activity against HCC-827 cells, NCI-H1975 cells, and NCI-H1975-TM cells (IC50 = 0.009 μM, 0.49 μM and 3.24 μM, respectively), as well as significantly inducing degradation of EGFR protein in these cell lines (DC50 = 17.93 nM, 0.25 μM and 0.63 μM, respectively). Further investigations confirmed that IV-3 exhibited superior anti-tumor activity in all xenograft tumor models through the degradation of mutant EGFR protein. Moreover, IV-3 showed no inhibitory activity against A431 and A549 cells expressing wild-type EGFR, thereby eliminating potential toxic side effects emerging from wild-type EGFR inhibition. Overall, our study provides promising insights into EGFR-PROTACs as a potential therapeutic strategy against EGFR-acquired mutation.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yu Du
- State Key Laboratory of Natural Medicines, China Pharmaceutical University, Nanjing, 210009, China; Jiangsu Key Laboratory of Drug Design and Optimization, Department of Medicinal Chemistry, China Pharmaceutical University, Nanjing 211198, China
| | - Shi Shi
- State Key Laboratory of Natural Medicines, China Pharmaceutical University, Nanjing, 210009, China; Jiangsu Key Laboratory of Drug Design and Optimization, Department of Medicinal Chemistry, China Pharmaceutical University, Nanjing 211198, China; Jiangsu Lianhuan Pharmaceutical Co., Ltd, Yangzhou 225000, China
| | - Chen Shu
- State Key Laboratory of Natural Medicines, China Pharmaceutical University, Nanjing, 210009, China; Jiangsu Key Laboratory of Drug Design and Optimization, Department of Medicinal Chemistry, China Pharmaceutical University, Nanjing 211198, China
| | - Yezi He
- Jiangsu Key Laboratory of Drug Design and Optimization, Department of Medicinal Chemistry, China Pharmaceutical University, Nanjing 211198, China
| | - Wangyang Xu
- Jiangsu Key Laboratory of Drug Design and Optimization, Department of Medicinal Chemistry, China Pharmaceutical University, Nanjing 211198, China
| | - Daochen Wu
- Jiangsu Key Laboratory of Drug Design and Optimization, Department of Medicinal Chemistry, China Pharmaceutical University, Nanjing 211198, China
| | - Yushu Tian
- Jiangsu Key Laboratory of Drug Design and Optimization, Department of Medicinal Chemistry, China Pharmaceutical University, Nanjing 211198, China
| | - Mingyang Kong
- Jiangsu Key Laboratory of Drug Design and Optimization, Department of Medicinal Chemistry, China Pharmaceutical University, Nanjing 211198, China
| | - Jiahuan He
- Jiangsu Key Laboratory of Drug Design and Optimization, Department of Medicinal Chemistry, China Pharmaceutical University, Nanjing 211198, China
| | - Wenhui Xie
- Jiangsu Key Laboratory of Drug Design and Optimization, Department of Medicinal Chemistry, China Pharmaceutical University, Nanjing 211198, China
| | - Yijia Qiu
- Jiangsu Key Laboratory of Drug Design and Optimization, Department of Medicinal Chemistry, China Pharmaceutical University, Nanjing 211198, China
| | - Yungen Xu
- State Key Laboratory of Natural Medicines, China Pharmaceutical University, Nanjing, 210009, China; Jiangsu Key Laboratory of Drug Design and Optimization, Department of Medicinal Chemistry, China Pharmaceutical University, Nanjing 211198, China.
| | - Yi Zou
- Jiangsu Key Laboratory of Drug Design and Optimization, Department of Medicinal Chemistry, China Pharmaceutical University, Nanjing 211198, China.
| | - Qihua Zhu
- State Key Laboratory of Natural Medicines, China Pharmaceutical University, Nanjing, 210009, China; Jiangsu Key Laboratory of Drug Design and Optimization, Department of Medicinal Chemistry, China Pharmaceutical University, Nanjing 211198, China.
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7
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Yao X, Mao J, Zhang H, Xiao Y, Wang Y, Liu H. Development of novel N-aryl-2,4-bithiazole-2-amine-based CYP1B1 degraders for reversing drug resistance. Eur J Med Chem 2024; 272:116488. [PMID: 38733885 DOI: 10.1016/j.ejmech.2024.116488] [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: 01/25/2024] [Revised: 05/07/2024] [Accepted: 05/07/2024] [Indexed: 05/13/2024]
Abstract
Extrahepatic cytochrome P450 1B1 (CYP1B1), which is highly expressed in non-small cell lung cancer, is an attractive target for cancer prevention, therapy, and overcoming drug resistance. Historically, CYP1B1 inhibition has been the primary therapeutic approach for treating CYP1B1-related malignancies, but its success has been limited. This study introduced CYP1B1 degradation as an alternative strategy to counter drug resistance and metastasis in CYP1B1-overexpressing non-small cell lung cancer A549/Taxol cells via a PROTAC strategy. Our investigation revealed that the identification of the potent CYP1B1 degrader PV2, achieving DC50 values of 1.0 nM and inducing >90 % CYP1B1 degradation at concentrations as low as 10 nM in A549/Taxol cells. Importantly, PV2 enhanced the sensitivity of the A549/Taxol subline to Taxol, possibly due to its stronger inhibitory effects on P-gp through CYP1B1 degradation. Additionally, compared to the CYP1B1 inhibitor A1, PV2 effectively suppressed the migration and invasion of A549/Taxol cells by inhibiting the FAK/SRC and EMT pathways. These findings hold promise for a novel therapy targeting advanced CYP1B1+ non-small cell lung cancer.
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Affiliation(s)
- Xiaoxuan Yao
- Wuya College of Innovation, Shenyang Pharmaceutical University, 103 Wenhua Road, Shenhe District, Shenyang, 110016, Liaoning, PR China
| | - Jianping Mao
- Wuya College of Innovation, Shenyang Pharmaceutical University, 103 Wenhua Road, Shenhe District, Shenyang, 110016, Liaoning, PR China
| | - Haoyu Zhang
- Key Laboratory of Structure-Based Drug Design & Discovery, Ministry of Education, Shenyang Pharmaceutical University, 103 Wenhua Road, Shenhe District, Shenyang, 110016, Liaoning, PR China
| | - Yi Xiao
- Wuya College of Innovation, Shenyang Pharmaceutical University, 103 Wenhua Road, Shenhe District, Shenyang, 110016, Liaoning, PR China
| | - Yongjun Wang
- Wuya College of Innovation, Shenyang Pharmaceutical University, 103 Wenhua Road, Shenhe District, Shenyang, 110016, Liaoning, PR China.
| | - Hongzhuo Liu
- Wuya College of Innovation, Shenyang Pharmaceutical University, 103 Wenhua Road, Shenhe District, Shenyang, 110016, Liaoning, PR China.
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8
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Soto-Martínez DM, Clements GD, Díaz JE, Becher J, Reynolds RC, Ochsenbauer C, Snowden TS. Preparation of von Hippel-Lindau (VHL) E3 ubiquitin ligase ligands exploiting constitutive hydroxyproline for benzylic amine protection. RSC Adv 2024; 14:17077-17090. [PMID: 38808246 PMCID: PMC11130640 DOI: 10.1039/d4ra01974a] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/14/2024] [Accepted: 05/16/2024] [Indexed: 05/30/2024] Open
Abstract
The von Hippel-Lindau (VHL) protein serves as the substrate recognition subunit of the multi-subunit Cullin-2 RING E3 ubiquitin ligase (CRL2VHL), which regulates intracellular concentrations of hypoxia inducible factors (HIFs) through a ubiquitin proteasome system (UPS) cascade. Strategic recruitment of CRL2VHL by bi- or trifunctional targeted protein degraders (e.g., PROTACs®) offers the prospect of promoting aberrant polyubiquitination and ensuing proteasomal degradation of disease-related proteins. Non-peptidic, l-hydroxyproline-bearing VHL ligands such as VH032 (1) and its chiral benzylic amine analog Me-VH032 (2), are functional components of targeted protein degraders commonly employed for this purpose. Herein, we compare two approaches for the preparation of 1 and 2 primarily highlighting performance differences between Pd(OAc)2 and Pd-PEPPSI-IPr for the key C-H arylation of 4-methylthiazole. Results from this comparison prompted the development of a unified, five-step route for the preparation of either VH032 (1) or Me-VH032 (2) in multigram quantities, resulting in yields of 56% and 61% for 1 and 2, respectively. Application of N-Boc-l-4-hydroxyproline rather than N-tert-butoxycarbonyl to shield the benzylic amine during the coupling step enhances step economy. Additionally, we identified previously undisclosed minor byproducts generated during arylation steps along with observations from amine deprotection and amidation reaction steps that may prove helpful not only for the preparation of 1 and 2, but for other VHL recruiting ligands, as well.
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Affiliation(s)
- Diana M Soto-Martínez
- Department of Chemistry and Biochemistry, The University of Alabama 250 Hackberry Lane Tuscaloosa AL 35487 USA
| | - Garrett D Clements
- Department of Chemistry and Biochemistry, The University of Alabama 250 Hackberry Lane Tuscaloosa AL 35487 USA
| | - John E Díaz
- Department of Chemistry and Biochemistry, The University of Alabama 250 Hackberry Lane Tuscaloosa AL 35487 USA
| | - Joy Becher
- Department of Chemistry and Biochemistry, The University of Alabama 250 Hackberry Lane Tuscaloosa AL 35487 USA
| | - Robert C Reynolds
- Department of Medicine, Division of Hematology and Oncology, University of Alabama at Birmingham Birmingham AL 35294 USA
| | - Christina Ochsenbauer
- Department of Medicine, Division of Hematology and Oncology, University of Alabama at Birmingham Birmingham AL 35294 USA
| | - Timothy S Snowden
- Department of Chemistry and Biochemistry, The University of Alabama 250 Hackberry Lane Tuscaloosa AL 35487 USA
- Center for Convergent Bioscience and Medicine, The University of Alabama 720 2nd St. Tuscaloosa AL 35401 USA
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9
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Stevens R, Thompson JDF, Fournier JCL, Burley GA, Battersby DJ, Miah AH. Innovative, combinatorial and high-throughput approaches to degrader synthesis. Chem Soc Rev 2024; 53:4838-4861. [PMID: 38596888 DOI: 10.1039/d3cs01127e] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 04/11/2024]
Abstract
Targeted protein degraders such as PROTACs and molecular glues are a rapidly emerging therapeutic modality within industry and academia. Degraders possess unique mechanisms of action that lead to the removal of specific proteins by co-opting the cell's natural degradation mechanisms via induced proximity. Their optimisation thus far has often been largely empirical, requiring the synthesis and screening of a large number of analogues. In addition, the synthesis and development of degraders is often challenging, leading to lengthy optimisation campaigns to deliver candidate-quality compounds. This review highlights how the synthesis of degraders has evolved in recent years, in particular focusing on means of applying high-throughput chemistry and screening approaches to expedite these timelines, which we anticipate to be valuable in shaping the future of degrader optimisation campaigns.
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Affiliation(s)
- Rebecca Stevens
- Medicinal Chemistry, GSK, Stevenage, SG1 2NY, UK.
- Department of Pure and Applied Chemistry, University of Strathclyde, Glasgow, G1 1XQ, UK
| | | | | | - Glenn A Burley
- Department of Pure and Applied Chemistry, University of Strathclyde, Glasgow, G1 1XQ, UK
| | | | - Afjal H Miah
- Medicinal Chemistry, GSK, Stevenage, SG1 2NY, UK.
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Chen Y, Xue H, Jin J. Applications of protein ubiquitylation and deubiquitylation in drug discovery. J Biol Chem 2024; 300:107264. [PMID: 38582446 PMCID: PMC11087986 DOI: 10.1016/j.jbc.2024.107264] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/09/2023] [Revised: 03/29/2024] [Accepted: 04/01/2024] [Indexed: 04/08/2024] Open
Abstract
The ubiquitin (Ub)-proteasome system (UPS) is the major machinery mediating specific protein turnover in eukaryotic cells. By ubiquitylating unwanted, damaged, or harmful proteins and driving their degradation, UPS is involved in many important cellular processes. Several new UPS-based technologies, including molecular glue degraders and PROTACs (proteolysis-targeting chimeras) to promote protein degradation, and DUBTACs (deubiquitinase-targeting chimeras) to increase protein stability, have been developed. By specifically inducing the interactions between different Ub ligases and targeted proteins that are not otherwise related, molecular glue degraders and PROTACs degrade targeted proteins via the UPS; in contrast, by inducing the proximity of targeted proteins to deubiquitinases, DUBTACs are created to clear degradable poly-Ub chains to stabilize targeted proteins. In this review, we summarize the recent research progress in molecular glue degraders, PROTACs, and DUBTACs and their applications. We discuss immunomodulatory drugs, sulfonamides, cyclin-dependent kinase-targeting molecular glue degraders, and new development of PROTACs. We also introduce the principle of DUBTAC and its applications. Finally, we propose a few future directions of these three technologies related to targeted protein homeostasis.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yilin Chen
- Life Sciences Institute, Zhejiang University, Hangzhou, China
| | - Haoan Xue
- Life Sciences Institute, Zhejiang University, Hangzhou, China; Center for Life Sciences, Shaoxing Institute, Zhejiang University, Shaoxing, China
| | - Jianping Jin
- Life Sciences Institute, Zhejiang University, Hangzhou, China; Center for Life Sciences, Shaoxing Institute, Zhejiang University, Shaoxing, China; Cancer Center, Zhejiang University, Hangzhou, China.
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11
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Hancock GR, Gertz J, Jeselsohn R, Fanning SW. Estrogen Receptor Alpha Mutations, Truncations, Heterodimers, and Therapies. Endocrinology 2024; 165:bqae051. [PMID: 38643482 PMCID: PMC11075793 DOI: 10.1210/endocr/bqae051] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/05/2024] [Revised: 04/02/2024] [Accepted: 04/17/2024] [Indexed: 04/23/2024]
Abstract
Annual breast cancer (BCa) deaths have declined since its apex in 1989 concomitant with widespread adoption of hormone therapies that target estrogen receptor alpha (ERα), the prominent nuclear receptor expressed in ∼80% of BCa. However, up to ∼50% of patients who are ER+ with high-risk disease experience post endocrine therapy relapse and metastasis to distant organs. The vast majority of BCa mortality occurs in this setting, highlighting the inadequacy of current therapies. Genomic abnormalities to ESR1, the gene encoding ERα, emerge under prolonged selective pressure to enable endocrine therapy resistance. These genetic lesions include focal gene amplifications, hotspot missense mutations in the ligand binding domain, truncations, fusions, and complex interactions with other nuclear receptors. Tumor cells utilize aberrant ERα activity to proliferate, spread, and evade therapy in BCa as well as other cancers. Cutting edge studies on ERα structural and transcriptional relationships are being harnessed to produce new therapies that have shown benefits in patients with ESR1 hotspot mutations. In this review we discuss the history of ERα, current research unlocking unknown aspects of ERα signaling including the structural basis for receptor antagonism, and future directions of ESR1 investigation. In addition, we discuss the development of endocrine therapies from their inception to present day and survey new avenues of drug development to improve pharmaceutical profiles, targeting, and efficacy.
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Affiliation(s)
- Govinda R Hancock
- Department of Cancer Biology, Loyola University Chicago Stritch School of Medicine, Maywood, IL 60513, USA
| | - Jason Gertz
- Department of Oncological Sciences, Huntsman Cancer Center, University of Utah, Salt Lake City, UT 84112, USA
| | - Rinath Jeselsohn
- Department of Medical Oncology, Dana-Farber Cancer Institute, Boston, MA 02215, USA
- Department of Medicine, Brigham and Women's Hospital, Boston, MA 02215, USA
- Department of Medicine, Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA 02115, USA
| | - Sean W Fanning
- Department of Cancer Biology, Loyola University Chicago Stritch School of Medicine, Maywood, IL 60513, USA
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12
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Kong L, Jin X. Dysregulation of deubiquitination in breast cancer. Gene 2024; 902:148175. [PMID: 38242375 DOI: 10.1016/j.gene.2024.148175] [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: 10/25/2023] [Revised: 12/04/2023] [Accepted: 01/16/2024] [Indexed: 01/21/2024]
Abstract
Breast cancer (BC) is a highly frequent malignant tumor that poses a serious threat to women's health and has different molecular subtypes, histological subtypes, and biological features, which act by activating oncogenic factors and suppressing cancer inhibitors. The ubiquitin-proteasome system (UPS) is the main process contributing to protein degradation, and deubiquitinases (DUBs) are reverse enzymes that counteract this process. There is growing evidence that dysregulation of DUBs is involved in the occurrence of BC. Herein, we review recent research findings in BC-associated DUBs, describe their nature, classification, and functions, and discuss the potential mechanisms of DUB-related dysregulation in BC. Furthermore, we present the successful treatment of malignant cancer with DUB inhibitors, as well as analyzing the status of targeting aberrant DUBs in BC.
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Affiliation(s)
- Lili Kong
- Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, Zhejiang Key Laboratory of Pathophysiology, Health Science Center, Ningbo 315211, Zhejiang, China
| | - Xiaofeng Jin
- Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, Zhejiang Key Laboratory of Pathophysiology, Health Science Center, Ningbo 315211, Zhejiang, China.
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13
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Liang X, Ren H, Han F, Liang R, Zhao J, Liu H. The new direction of drug development: Degradation of undruggable targets through targeting chimera technology. Med Res Rev 2024; 44:632-685. [PMID: 37983964 DOI: 10.1002/med.21992] [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: 11/30/2022] [Revised: 06/13/2023] [Accepted: 10/29/2023] [Indexed: 11/22/2023]
Abstract
Imbalances in protein and noncoding RNA levels in vivo lead to the occurrence of many diseases. In addition to the use of small molecule inhibitors and agonists to restore these imbalances, recently emerged targeted degradation technologies provide a new direction for disease treatment. Targeted degradation technology directly degrades target proteins or RNA by utilizing the inherent degradation pathways, thereby eliminating the functions of pathogenic proteins (or RNA) to treat diseases. Compared with traditional therapies, targeted degradation technology which avoids the principle of traditional inhibitor occupation drive, has higher efficiency and selectivity, and widely expands the range of drug targets. It is one of the most promising and hottest areas for future drug development. Herein, we systematically introduced the in vivo degradation systems applied to degrader design: ubiquitin-proteasome system, lysosomal degradation system, and RNA degradation system. We summarized the development progress, structural characteristics, and limitations of novel chimeric design technologies based on different degradation systems. In addition, due to the lack of clear ligand-binding pockets, about 80% of disease-associated proteins cannot be effectively intervened with through traditional therapies. We deeply elucidated how to use targeted degradation technology to discover and design molecules for representative undruggable targets including transcription factors, small GTPases, and phosphatases. Overall, this review provides a comprehensive and systematic overview of targeted degradation technology-related research advances and a new guidance for the chimeric design of undruggable targets.
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Affiliation(s)
- Xuewu Liang
- State Key Laboratory of Drug Research, Shanghai Institute of Materia Medica, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Shanghai, China
| | - Hairu Ren
- State Key Laboratory of Drug Research, Shanghai Institute of Materia Medica, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Shanghai, China
- School of Pharmaceutical Science and Technology, Hangzhou Institute for Advanced Study, University of Chinese Academy of Sciences, Hangzhou, China
| | - Fengyang Han
- School of Pharmacy, Fudan University, Shanghai, China
| | - Renwen Liang
- State Key Laboratory of Drug Research, Shanghai Institute of Materia Medica, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Shanghai, China
| | - Jiayan Zhao
- School of Pharmaceutical Science and Technology, Hangzhou Institute for Advanced Study, University of Chinese Academy of Sciences, Hangzhou, China
| | - Hong Liu
- State Key Laboratory of Drug Research, Shanghai Institute of Materia Medica, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Shanghai, China
- School of Pharmaceutical Science and Technology, Hangzhou Institute for Advanced Study, University of Chinese Academy of Sciences, Hangzhou, China
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14
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Setia N, Almuqdadi HTA, Abid M. Journey of Von Hippel-Lindau (VHL) E3 ligase in PROTACs design: From VHL ligands to VHL-based degraders. Eur J Med Chem 2024; 265:116041. [PMID: 38199162 DOI: 10.1016/j.ejmech.2023.116041] [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: 10/02/2023] [Revised: 12/08/2023] [Accepted: 12/08/2023] [Indexed: 01/12/2024]
Abstract
The scientific community has shown considerable interest in proteolysis-targeting chimeras (PROTACs) in the last decade, indicating their remarkable potential as a means of achieving targeted protein degradation (TPD). Not only are PROTACs seen as valuable tools in molecular biology but their emergence as a modality for drug discovery has also garnered significant attention. PROTACs bind to E3 ligases and target proteins through respective ligands connected via a linker to induce proteasome-mediated protein degradation. The discovery of small molecule ligands for E3 ligases has led to the prevalent use of various E3 ligases in PROTAC design. Furthermore, the incorporation of different types of linkers has proven beneficial in enhancing the efficacy of PROTACs. By far more than 3300 PROTACs have been reported in the literature. Notably, Von Hippel-Lindau (VHL)-based PROTACs have surfaced as a propitious strategy for targeting proteins, even encompassing those that were previously considered non-druggable. VHL is extensively utilized as an E3 ligase in the advancement of PROTACs owing to its widespread expression in various tissues and well-documented binders. Here, we review the discovery of VHL ligands, the types of linkers employed to develop VHL-based PROTACs, and their subsequent modulation to design advanced non-conventional degraders to target various disease-causing proteins. Furthermore, we provide an overview of other E3 ligases recruited in the field of PROTAC technology.
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Affiliation(s)
- Nisha Setia
- Medicinal Chemistry Laboratory, Department of Biosciences, Jamia Millia Islamia, Jamia Nagar, New Delhi, 110025, India
| | | | - Mohammad Abid
- Medicinal Chemistry Laboratory, Department of Biosciences, Jamia Millia Islamia, Jamia Nagar, New Delhi, 110025, India.
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15
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Berlin M, Cantley J, Bookbinder M, Bortolon E, Broccatelli F, Cadelina G, Chan EW, Chen H, Chen X, Cheng Y, Cheung TK, Davenport K, DiNicola D, Gordon D, Hamman BD, Harbin A, Haskell R, He M, Hole AJ, Januario T, Kerry PS, Koenig SG, Li L, Merchant M, Pérez-Dorado I, Pizzano J, Quinn C, Rose CM, Rousseau E, Soto L, Staben LR, Sun H, Tian Q, Wang J, Wang W, Ye CS, Ye X, Zhang P, Zhou Y, Yauch R, Dragovich PS. PROTACs Targeting BRM (SMARCA2) Afford Selective In Vivo Degradation over BRG1 (SMARCA4) and Are Active in BRG1 Mutant Xenograft Tumor Models. J Med Chem 2024; 67:1262-1313. [PMID: 38180485 DOI: 10.1021/acs.jmedchem.3c01781] [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
The identification of VHL-binding proteolysis targeting chimeras (PROTACs) that potently degrade the BRM protein (also known as SMARCA2) in SW1573 cell-based experiments is described. These molecules exhibit between 10- and 100-fold degradation selectivity for BRM over the closely related paralog protein BRG1 (SMARCA4). They also selectively impair the proliferation of the H1944 "BRG1-mutant" NSCLC cell line, which lacks functional BRG1 protein and is thus highly dependent on BRM for growth, relative to the wild-type Calu6 line. In vivo experiments performed with a subset of compounds identified PROTACs that potently and selectively degraded BRM in the Calu6 and/or the HCC2302 BRG1 mutant NSCLC xenograft models and also afforded antitumor efficacy in the latter system. Subsequent PK/PD analysis established a need to achieve strong BRM degradation (>95%) in order to trigger meaningful antitumor activity in vivo. Intratumor quantitation of mRNA associated with two genes whose transcription was controlled by BRM (PLAU and KRT80) also supported this conclusion.
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Affiliation(s)
- Michael Berlin
- Arvinas LLC, 5 Science Park, New Haven, Connecticut 06511, United States
| | - Jennifer Cantley
- Arvinas LLC, 5 Science Park, New Haven, Connecticut 06511, United States
| | - Mark Bookbinder
- Arvinas LLC, 5 Science Park, New Haven, Connecticut 06511, United States
| | - Elizabeth Bortolon
- Arvinas LLC, 5 Science Park, New Haven, Connecticut 06511, United States
| | - Fabio Broccatelli
- Genentech Inc., 1 DNA Way, South San Francisco, California 94080, United States
| | - Greg Cadelina
- Arvinas LLC, 5 Science Park, New Haven, Connecticut 06511, United States
| | - Emily W Chan
- Genentech Inc., 1 DNA Way, South San Francisco, California 94080, United States
| | - Huifen Chen
- Genentech Inc., 1 DNA Way, South San Francisco, California 94080, United States
| | - Xin Chen
- Arvinas LLC, 5 Science Park, New Haven, Connecticut 06511, United States
| | - Yunxing Cheng
- Pharmaron Beijing, Co. Ltd., 6 Tai He Road, BDA, Beijing 100176, P. R. China
| | - Tommy K Cheung
- Genentech Inc., 1 DNA Way, South San Francisco, California 94080, United States
| | - Kim Davenport
- Arvinas LLC, 5 Science Park, New Haven, Connecticut 06511, United States
| | - Dean DiNicola
- Arvinas LLC, 5 Science Park, New Haven, Connecticut 06511, United States
| | - Debbie Gordon
- Arvinas LLC, 5 Science Park, New Haven, Connecticut 06511, United States
| | - Brian D Hamman
- Arvinas LLC, 5 Science Park, New Haven, Connecticut 06511, United States
| | - Alicia Harbin
- Arvinas LLC, 5 Science Park, New Haven, Connecticut 06511, United States
| | - Roy Haskell
- Arvinas LLC, 5 Science Park, New Haven, Connecticut 06511, United States
| | - Mingtao He
- Pharmaron Beijing, Co. Ltd., 6 Tai He Road, BDA, Beijing 100176, P. R. China
| | - Alison J Hole
- Evotec (U.K.) Ltd., 95 Park Drive, Milton Park, Abingdon, Oxfordshire OX14 4RY, U.K
| | - Thomas Januario
- Genentech Inc., 1 DNA Way, South San Francisco, California 94080, United States
| | - Philip S Kerry
- Evotec (U.K.) Ltd., 95 Park Drive, Milton Park, Abingdon, Oxfordshire OX14 4RY, U.K
| | - Stefan G Koenig
- Genentech Inc., 1 DNA Way, South San Francisco, California 94080, United States
| | - Limei Li
- Pharmaron Beijing, Co. Ltd., 6 Tai He Road, BDA, Beijing 100176, P. R. China
| | - Mark Merchant
- Genentech Inc., 1 DNA Way, South San Francisco, California 94080, United States
| | | | - Jennifer Pizzano
- Arvinas LLC, 5 Science Park, New Haven, Connecticut 06511, United States
| | - Connor Quinn
- Arvinas LLC, 5 Science Park, New Haven, Connecticut 06511, United States
| | - Christopher M Rose
- Genentech Inc., 1 DNA Way, South San Francisco, California 94080, United States
| | - Emma Rousseau
- Arvinas LLC, 5 Science Park, New Haven, Connecticut 06511, United States
| | - Leofal Soto
- Arvinas LLC, 5 Science Park, New Haven, Connecticut 06511, United States
| | - Leanna R Staben
- Genentech Inc., 1 DNA Way, South San Francisco, California 94080, United States
| | - Hongming Sun
- Pharmaron Beijing, Co. Ltd., 6 Tai He Road, BDA, Beijing 100176, P. R. China
| | - Qingping Tian
- Genentech Inc., 1 DNA Way, South San Francisco, California 94080, United States
| | - Jing Wang
- Arvinas LLC, 5 Science Park, New Haven, Connecticut 06511, United States
| | - Weifeng Wang
- Pharmaron Beijing, Co. Ltd., 6 Tai He Road, BDA, Beijing 100176, P. R. China
| | - Crystal S Ye
- Genentech Inc., 1 DNA Way, South San Francisco, California 94080, United States
| | - Xiaofen Ye
- Genentech Inc., 1 DNA Way, South San Francisco, California 94080, United States
| | - Penghong Zhang
- Pharmaron Beijing, Co. Ltd., 6 Tai He Road, BDA, Beijing 100176, P. R. China
| | - Yuhui Zhou
- Genentech Inc., 1 DNA Way, South San Francisco, California 94080, United States
| | - Robert Yauch
- Genentech Inc., 1 DNA Way, South San Francisco, California 94080, United States
| | - Peter S Dragovich
- Genentech Inc., 1 DNA Way, South San Francisco, California 94080, United States
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16
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Rossetti P, Apprato G, Caron G, Ermondi G, Rossi Sebastiano M. DegraderTCM: A Computationally Sparing Approach for Predicting Ternary Degradation Complexes. ACS Med Chem Lett 2024; 15:45-53. [PMID: 38229751 PMCID: PMC10788944 DOI: 10.1021/acsmedchemlett.3c00362] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/16/2023] [Revised: 11/30/2023] [Accepted: 11/30/2023] [Indexed: 01/18/2024] Open
Abstract
Proteolysis targeting chimeras (PROTACs or degraders) represent a novel therapeutic modality that has raised interest thanks to promising results and currently undergoing clinical testing. PROTACs induce the selective proteasomal degradation of undesired proteins by the formation of ternary complexes (TCs). Having knowledge of the 3D structure of TCs is crucial for the design of PROTAC drugs. Here, we describe DegraderTCM, a new computational method for modeling PROTAC-mediated TCs that requires low computational power and provides sound results in a short time span. We validated DegraderTCM against a selected set of experimentally determined structures and defined a method to predict the PROTAC degradation activity based on the computed TC structure. Finally, we modeled TCs of known degraders holding significance for defining the method's applicability domain. A retrospective analysis of structure-activity relationships unveiled possibilities for utilizing DegraderTCM in the initial stages of designing novel PROTAC drugs.
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Affiliation(s)
- Paolo Rossetti
- University of Torino, Department of Molecular Biotechnology and Health Sciences,
CASSMedChem, Piazza Nizza
44, 10126 Torino, Italy
| | - Giulia Apprato
- University of Torino, Department of Molecular Biotechnology and Health Sciences,
CASSMedChem, Piazza Nizza
44, 10126 Torino, Italy
| | - Giulia Caron
- University of Torino, Department of Molecular Biotechnology and Health Sciences,
CASSMedChem, Piazza Nizza
44, 10126 Torino, Italy
| | - Giuseppe Ermondi
- University of Torino, Department of Molecular Biotechnology and Health Sciences,
CASSMedChem, Piazza Nizza
44, 10126 Torino, Italy
| | - Matteo Rossi Sebastiano
- University of Torino, Department of Molecular Biotechnology and Health Sciences,
CASSMedChem, Piazza Nizza
44, 10126 Torino, Italy
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17
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Hu B, Hu J. Complete elimination of estrogen receptor α by PROTAC estrogen receptor α degrader ERD-148 in breast cancer cells. Breast Cancer Res Treat 2024; 203:383-396. [PMID: 37847455 DOI: 10.1007/s10549-023-07136-2] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/25/2023] [Accepted: 09/21/2023] [Indexed: 10/18/2023]
Abstract
PURPOSE Estrogen Receptor α (ERα) is a well-established therapeutic target for Estrogen Receptor (ER)-positive breast cancers. Both Selective Estrogen Receptor Degraders (SERD) and PROTAC ER degraders are synthetic compounds suppressing the ER activity through the degradation of ER. However, the differences between SERD and PROTAC ER degraders are far from clear. METHODS The effect of PROTAC ER degrader ERD-148 and SERD fulvestrant on protein degradation was evaluated by western blot analysis. The cell proliferation was tested by WST-8 assays and the gene expressions were assessed by gene microarray and real-time RT-PCR analysis after the compound treatment. RESULTS ERD-148 is a potent and selective PROTAC ERα degrader. It degrades not only unphosphorylated ERα but also the phosphorylated ERα in the cells. In contrast, the SERD fulvestrant showed much-reduced degradation potency on the phosphorylated ERα. The more complete degradation of ERα by ERD-148 translates into a greater maximum cell growth inhibition. However, ERD-148 and fulvestrant share a similar gene regulation profile except for the variation of regulation potency. Further studies indicate that ERD-148 degrades the ERα in fulvestrant-resistant cells. CONCLUSION PROTAC ER degrader has a different mechanism of action compared to SERD which may be used in treating fulvestrant-resistant cancers.
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Affiliation(s)
- Biao Hu
- Department of Internal Medicine, University of Michigan, G349B, 520 NCRC, 1600 Huron Parkway, Ann Arbor, MI, 48109, USA.
| | - Jiantao Hu
- Department of Internal Medicine, University of Michigan, G349B, 520 NCRC, 1600 Huron Parkway, Ann Arbor, MI, 48109, USA
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18
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Cui Q, Huang C, Liu JY, Zhang JT. Small Molecule Inhibitors Targeting the "Undruggable" Survivin: The Past, Present, and Future from a Medicinal Chemist's Perspective. J Med Chem 2023; 66:16515-16545. [PMID: 38092421 DOI: 10.1021/acs.jmedchem.3c01130] [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] [Indexed: 12/29/2023]
Abstract
Survivin, a homodimeric protein and a member of the IAP family, plays a vital function in cell survival and cycle progression by interacting with various proteins and complexes. Its expression is upregulated in cancers but not detectable in normal tissues. Thus, it has been regarded and validated as an ideal cancer target. However, survivin is "undruggable" due to its lack of enzymatic activities or active sites for small molecules to bind/inhibit. Academic and industrial laboratories have explored different strategies to overcome this hurdle over the past two decades, with some compounds advanced into clinical testing. These strategies include inhibiting survivin expression, its interaction with binding partners and homodimerization. Here, we provide comprehensive analyses of these strategies and perspective on different small molecule survivin inhibitors to help drug discovery targeting "undruggable" proteins in general and survivin specifically with a true survivin inhibitor that will prevail in the foreseeable future.
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Affiliation(s)
- Qingbin Cui
- Department of Cell and Cancer Biology, University of Toledo College of Medicine and Life Sciences, Toledo, Ohio 43614, United States
| | - Caoqinglong Huang
- Department of Cell and Cancer Biology, University of Toledo College of Medicine and Life Sciences, Toledo, Ohio 43614, United States
| | - Jing-Yuan Liu
- Department of Medicine, University of Toledo College of Medicine and Life Sciences, Toledo, Ohio 43614, United States
| | - Jian-Ting Zhang
- Department of Cell and Cancer Biology, University of Toledo College of Medicine and Life Sciences, Toledo, Ohio 43614, United States
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19
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Zhou Z, Fan H, Yu D, Shi F, Li Q, Zhang Z, Wang X, Zhang X, Dong C, Sun H, Mi W. Glutathione-responsive PROTAC for targeted degradation of ERα in breast cancer cells. Bioorg Med Chem 2023; 96:117526. [PMID: 38008041 DOI: 10.1016/j.bmc.2023.117526] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/31/2023] [Revised: 11/03/2023] [Accepted: 11/07/2023] [Indexed: 11/28/2023]
Abstract
ERα (estrogen receptor-α)-targeting PROTACs (PROteolysis TArgeting Chimeras) have emerged as a novel and promising modality for breast cancer therapeutics. However, ERα PROTACs-induced degradation in normal tissues raises concerns about potential off-tissue toxicity. Tumor microenvironment-responsive strategy provides potential for specific control of the PROTAC's on-target degradation activity. The glutathione (GSH) level has been reported to be significantly increased in tumor cells. Here, we designed a GSH-responsive ERα PROTAC, which is generated by conjugating an o-nitrobenzenesulfonyl group to the hydroxyl group of VHL-based ERα PROTAC through a nucleophilic substitution reaction. The o-nitrobenzenesulfonyl group as a protecting group blocks the bioactivity of ERα PROTAC (ER-P1), and that can be specifically recognized and removed by highly abundant GSH in cancer cells. Consequently, the GSH-responsive ERα PROTAC (GSH-ER-P1) exhibits significantly enhanced degradation of ERα in cancer cells compared to that in normal cells, leading to a remarkable inhibition of breast cancer cell proliferation and less toxic effects on normal cells. This study provides a potentially valuable strategy for breast cancer treatment using tumor microenvironment-responsive PROTACs.
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Affiliation(s)
- Zhili Zhou
- Tianjin Institute of Immunology, Key Laboratory of Immune Microenvironment and Disease of the Ministry of Education, The Province and Ministry Co-sponsored Collaborative Innovation Center for Medical Epigenetics, Department of Immunology, School of Basic Medical Sciences, Tianjin Medical University General Hospital, Tianjin Medical University, Tianjin 300070. China
| | - Heli Fan
- Department of Chemical Biology, Key Laboratory on Technologies Enabling Development of Clinical Therapeutics and Diagnostics, School of Pharmacy, Tianjin Medical University, Tianjin 300070. China
| | - Dehao Yu
- Department of Chemical Biology, Key Laboratory on Technologies Enabling Development of Clinical Therapeutics and Diagnostics, School of Pharmacy, Tianjin Medical University, Tianjin 300070. China
| | - Fengying Shi
- Tianjin Institute of Immunology, Key Laboratory of Immune Microenvironment and Disease of the Ministry of Education, The Province and Ministry Co-sponsored Collaborative Innovation Center for Medical Epigenetics, Department of Immunology, School of Basic Medical Sciences, Tianjin Medical University General Hospital, Tianjin Medical University, Tianjin 300070. China
| | - Qianqian Li
- Tianjin Institute of Immunology, Key Laboratory of Immune Microenvironment and Disease of the Ministry of Education, The Province and Ministry Co-sponsored Collaborative Innovation Center for Medical Epigenetics, Department of Immunology, School of Basic Medical Sciences, Tianjin Medical University General Hospital, Tianjin Medical University, Tianjin 300070. China
| | - Zhenjian Zhang
- Tianjin Institute of Immunology, Key Laboratory of Immune Microenvironment and Disease of the Ministry of Education, The Province and Ministry Co-sponsored Collaborative Innovation Center for Medical Epigenetics, Department of Immunology, School of Basic Medical Sciences, Tianjin Medical University General Hospital, Tianjin Medical University, Tianjin 300070. China
| | - Xiaolu Wang
- Tianjin Institute of Immunology, Key Laboratory of Immune Microenvironment and Disease of the Ministry of Education, The Province and Ministry Co-sponsored Collaborative Innovation Center for Medical Epigenetics, Department of Immunology, School of Basic Medical Sciences, Tianjin Medical University General Hospital, Tianjin Medical University, Tianjin 300070. China
| | - Xuejun Zhang
- Tianjin Institute of Immunology, Key Laboratory of Immune Microenvironment and Disease of the Ministry of Education, The Province and Ministry Co-sponsored Collaborative Innovation Center for Medical Epigenetics, Department of Immunology, School of Basic Medical Sciences, Tianjin Medical University General Hospital, Tianjin Medical University, Tianjin 300070. China
| | - Cheng Dong
- Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, Key Laboratory of Immune Microenvironment and Disease (Ministry of Education), The Province and Ministry Co-sponsored Collaborative Innovation Center for Medical Epigenetics, School of Basic Medical Sciences, Tianjin Medical University, Tianjin 300070. China.
| | - Huabing Sun
- Department of Chemical Biology, Key Laboratory on Technologies Enabling Development of Clinical Therapeutics and Diagnostics, School of Pharmacy, Tianjin Medical University, Tianjin 300070. China.
| | - Wenyi Mi
- Tianjin Institute of Immunology, Key Laboratory of Immune Microenvironment and Disease of the Ministry of Education, The Province and Ministry Co-sponsored Collaborative Innovation Center for Medical Epigenetics, Department of Immunology, School of Basic Medical Sciences, Tianjin Medical University General Hospital, Tianjin Medical University, Tianjin 300070. China.
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20
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Wang Y, Min J, Deng X, Feng T, Hu H, Guo X, Cheng Y, Xie B, Yang Y, Chen CC, Guo RT, Dong C, Zhou HB. Discovery of novel covalent selective estrogen receptor degraders against endocrine-resistant breast cancer. Acta Pharm Sin B 2023; 13:4963-4982. [PMID: 38045063 PMCID: PMC10692362 DOI: 10.1016/j.apsb.2023.05.005] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/29/2023] [Revised: 05/03/2023] [Accepted: 05/06/2023] [Indexed: 12/05/2023] Open
Abstract
Endocrine-resistance remains a major challenge in estrogen receptor α positive (ERα+) breast cancer (BC) treatment and constitutively active somatic mutations in ERα are a common mechanism. There is an urgent need to develop novel drugs with new mode of mechanism to fight endocrine-resistance. Given aberrant ERα activity, we herein report the identification of novel covalent selective estrogen receptor degraders (cSERDs) possessing the advantages of both covalent and degradation strategies. A highly potent cSERD 29c was identified with superior anti-proliferative activity than fulvestrant against a panel of ERα+ breast cancer cell lines including mutant ERα. Crystal structure of ERα‒29c complex alongside intact mass spectrometry revealed that 29c disrupted ERα protein homeostasis through covalent targeting C530 and strong hydrophobic interaction collied on H11, thus enforcing a unique antagonist conformation and driving the ERα degradation. These significant effects of the cSERD on ERα homeostasis, unlike typical ERα degraders that occur directly via long side chains perturbing the morphology of H12, demonstrating a distinct mechanism of action (MoA). In vivo, 29c showed potent antitumor activity in MCF-7 tumor xenograft models and low toxicity. This proof-of-principle study verifies that novel cSERDs offering new opportunities for the development of innovative therapies for endocrine-resistant BC.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yubo Wang
- Department of Gynecological Oncology, Zhongnan Hospital of Wuhan University, School of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Wuhan University, Wuhan 430071, China
| | - Jian Min
- State Key Laboratory of Biocatalysis and Enzyme Engineering, National & Local Joint Engineering Research Center of High-throughput Drug Screening Technology, Hubei Key Laboratory of Industrial Biotechnology, School of Life Sciences, Hubei University, Wuhan 430062, China
| | - Xiangping Deng
- Department of Gynecological Oncology, Zhongnan Hospital of Wuhan University, School of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Wuhan University, Wuhan 430071, China
| | - Tian Feng
- Department of Gynecological Oncology, Zhongnan Hospital of Wuhan University, School of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Wuhan University, Wuhan 430071, China
| | - Hebing Hu
- State Key Laboratory of Biocatalysis and Enzyme Engineering, National & Local Joint Engineering Research Center of High-throughput Drug Screening Technology, Hubei Key Laboratory of Industrial Biotechnology, School of Life Sciences, Hubei University, Wuhan 430062, China
| | - Xinyi Guo
- Department of Gynecological Oncology, Zhongnan Hospital of Wuhan University, School of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Wuhan University, Wuhan 430071, China
| | - Yan Cheng
- Department of Gynecological Oncology, Zhongnan Hospital of Wuhan University, School of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Wuhan University, Wuhan 430071, China
| | - Baohua Xie
- Department of Gynecological Oncology, Zhongnan Hospital of Wuhan University, School of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Wuhan University, Wuhan 430071, China
| | - Yu Yang
- State Key Laboratory of Biocatalysis and Enzyme Engineering, National & Local Joint Engineering Research Center of High-throughput Drug Screening Technology, Hubei Key Laboratory of Industrial Biotechnology, School of Life Sciences, Hubei University, Wuhan 430062, China
| | - Chun-Chi Chen
- State Key Laboratory of Biocatalysis and Enzyme Engineering, National & Local Joint Engineering Research Center of High-throughput Drug Screening Technology, Hubei Key Laboratory of Industrial Biotechnology, School of Life Sciences, Hubei University, Wuhan 430062, China
| | - Rey-Ting Guo
- State Key Laboratory of Biocatalysis and Enzyme Engineering, National & Local Joint Engineering Research Center of High-throughput Drug Screening Technology, Hubei Key Laboratory of Industrial Biotechnology, School of Life Sciences, Hubei University, Wuhan 430062, China
| | - Chune Dong
- Department of Gynecological Oncology, Zhongnan Hospital of Wuhan University, School of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Wuhan University, Wuhan 430071, China
- Frontier Science Center for Immunology and Metabolism, State Key Laboratory of Virology, Provincial Key Laboratory of Developmentally Originated Disease, Key Laboratory of Combinatorial Biosynthesis and Drug Discovery (MOE) and Hubei Province Engineering and Technology Research Center for Fluorinated Pharmaceuticals, Wuhan University, Wuhan 430071, China
| | - Hai-Bing Zhou
- Department of Gynecological Oncology, Zhongnan Hospital of Wuhan University, School of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Wuhan University, Wuhan 430071, China
- Frontier Science Center for Immunology and Metabolism, State Key Laboratory of Virology, Provincial Key Laboratory of Developmentally Originated Disease, Key Laboratory of Combinatorial Biosynthesis and Drug Discovery (MOE) and Hubei Province Engineering and Technology Research Center for Fluorinated Pharmaceuticals, Wuhan University, Wuhan 430071, China
- Wuhan Research Center for Infectious Diseases and Cancer, Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences, Zhongnan Hospital of Wuhan University, Wuhan 430071, China
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21
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Stevens R, Bendito-Moll E, Battersby DJ, Miah AH, Wellaway N, Law RP, Stacey P, Klimaszewska D, Macina JM, Burley GA, Harling JD. Integrated Direct-to-Biology Platform for the Nanoscale Synthesis and Biological Evaluation of PROTACs. J Med Chem 2023; 66:15437-15452. [PMID: 37933562 DOI: 10.1021/acs.jmedchem.3c01604] [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: 11/08/2023]
Abstract
Proteolysis targeting chimeras (PROTACs) are heterobifunctional molecules that co-opt the cell's natural proteasomal degradation mechanisms to degrade undesired proteins. A challenge associated with PROTACs is the time and resource-intensive optimization; thus, the development of high-throughput platforms for their synthesis and biological evaluation is required. In this study, we establish an ultra-high-throughput experimentation (ultraHTE) platform for PROTAC synthesis, followed by direct addition of the crude reaction mixtures to cellular degradation assays without any purification. This 'direct-to-biology' (D2B) approach was validated and then exemplified in a medicinal chemistry campaign to identify novel BRD4 PROTACs. Using the D2B platform, the synthesis of 650 PROTACs was carried out in a 1536-well plate, and subsequent biological evaluation was performed by a single scientist in less than 1 month. Due to its ability to hugely accelerate the optimization of new degraders, we anticipate our platform will transform the synthesis and testing of PROTACs.
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Affiliation(s)
- Rebecca Stevens
- Medicines Design, GSK Medicines Research Centre, Gunnels Wood Road, Stevenage, Hertfordshire SG1 2NY, United Kingdom
- Department of Pure and Applied Chemistry, University of Strathclyde, 295 Cathedral Street, Glasgow G1 1XL, United Kingdom
| | - Enrique Bendito-Moll
- Medicines Design, GSK Medicines Research Centre, Gunnels Wood Road, Stevenage, Hertfordshire SG1 2NY, United Kingdom
- Department of Pure and Applied Chemistry, University of Strathclyde, 295 Cathedral Street, Glasgow G1 1XL, United Kingdom
| | - David J Battersby
- Medicines Design, GSK Medicines Research Centre, Gunnels Wood Road, Stevenage, Hertfordshire SG1 2NY, United Kingdom
| | - Afjal H Miah
- Medicines Design, GSK Medicines Research Centre, Gunnels Wood Road, Stevenage, Hertfordshire SG1 2NY, United Kingdom
| | - Natalie Wellaway
- Medicines Design, GSK Medicines Research Centre, Gunnels Wood Road, Stevenage, Hertfordshire SG1 2NY, United Kingdom
| | - Robert P Law
- Medicines Design, GSK Medicines Research Centre, Gunnels Wood Road, Stevenage, Hertfordshire SG1 2NY, United Kingdom
| | - Peter Stacey
- Medicines Design, GSK Medicines Research Centre, Gunnels Wood Road, Stevenage, Hertfordshire SG1 2NY, United Kingdom
| | - Diana Klimaszewska
- Medicines Design, GSK Medicines Research Centre, Gunnels Wood Road, Stevenage, Hertfordshire SG1 2NY, United Kingdom
| | - Justyna M Macina
- Medicines Design, GSK Medicines Research Centre, Gunnels Wood Road, Stevenage, Hertfordshire SG1 2NY, United Kingdom
| | - Glenn A Burley
- Department of Pure and Applied Chemistry, University of Strathclyde, 295 Cathedral Street, Glasgow G1 1XL, United Kingdom
| | - John D Harling
- Medicines Design, GSK Medicines Research Centre, Gunnels Wood Road, Stevenage, Hertfordshire SG1 2NY, United Kingdom
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22
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Chen S, Zheng Y, Liang B, Yin Y, Yao J, Wang Q, Liu Y, Neamati N. The application of PROTAC in HDAC. Eur J Med Chem 2023; 260:115746. [PMID: 37607440 DOI: 10.1016/j.ejmech.2023.115746] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/18/2023] [Revised: 07/29/2023] [Accepted: 08/17/2023] [Indexed: 08/24/2023]
Abstract
Inducing protein degradation by proteolysis targeting chimera (PROTAC) has provided great opportunities for scientific research and industrial applications. Histone deacetylase (HDAC)-PROTAC has been widely developed since the first report of its ability to induce the degradation of SIRT2 in 2017. To date, ten of the eighteen HDACs (HDACs 1-8, HDAC10, and SIRT2) have been successfully targeted and degraded by HDAC-PROTACs. HDAC-PROTACs surpass traditional HDAC inhibitors in many aspects, such as higher selectivity, more potent antiproliferative activity, and the ability to disrupt the enzyme-independent functions of a multifunctional protein and overcome drug resistance. Rationally designing HDAC-PROTACs is a main challenge in development because slight variations in chemical structure can lead to drastic effects on the efficiency and selectivity of the degradation. In the future, HDAC-PROTACs can potentially be involved in clinical research with the support of the increased amount of in vivo data, pharmacokinetic evaluation, and pharmacological studies.
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Affiliation(s)
- Shaoting Chen
- State Key Laboratory for Chemistry and Molecular Engineering of Medicinal Resources, Collaborative Innovation Center for Guangxi Ethnic Medicine, School of Chemistry and Pharmaceutical Sciences, Guangxi Normal University, Guilin, 541004, PR China
| | - Yuxiang Zheng
- State Key Laboratory for Chemistry and Molecular Engineering of Medicinal Resources, Collaborative Innovation Center for Guangxi Ethnic Medicine, School of Chemistry and Pharmaceutical Sciences, Guangxi Normal University, Guilin, 541004, PR China
| | - Benji Liang
- State Key Laboratory for Chemistry and Molecular Engineering of Medicinal Resources, Collaborative Innovation Center for Guangxi Ethnic Medicine, School of Chemistry and Pharmaceutical Sciences, Guangxi Normal University, Guilin, 541004, PR China
| | - Yudong Yin
- State Key Laboratory for Chemistry and Molecular Engineering of Medicinal Resources, Collaborative Innovation Center for Guangxi Ethnic Medicine, School of Chemistry and Pharmaceutical Sciences, Guangxi Normal University, Guilin, 541004, PR China
| | - Jian Yao
- State Key Laboratory for Chemistry and Molecular Engineering of Medicinal Resources, Collaborative Innovation Center for Guangxi Ethnic Medicine, School of Chemistry and Pharmaceutical Sciences, Guangxi Normal University, Guilin, 541004, PR China
| | - Quande Wang
- State Key Laboratory for Chemistry and Molecular Engineering of Medicinal Resources, Collaborative Innovation Center for Guangxi Ethnic Medicine, School of Chemistry and Pharmaceutical Sciences, Guangxi Normal University, Guilin, 541004, PR China.
| | - Yanghan Liu
- State Key Laboratory for Chemistry and Molecular Engineering of Medicinal Resources, Collaborative Innovation Center for Guangxi Ethnic Medicine, School of Chemistry and Pharmaceutical Sciences, Guangxi Normal University, Guilin, 541004, PR China.
| | - Nouri Neamati
- Department of Medicinal Chemistry, College of Pharmacy and Rogel Cancer Center, University of Michigan, Ann Arbor, MI, 48109, United States.
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23
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Vu LP, Diehl CJ, Casement R, Bond AG, Steinebach C, Strašek N, Bricelj A, Perdih A, Schnakenburg G, Sosič I, Ciulli A, Gütschow M. Expanding the Structural Diversity at the Phenylene Core of Ligands for the von Hippel-Lindau E3 Ubiquitin Ligase: Development of Highly Potent Hypoxia-Inducible Factor-1α Stabilizers. J Med Chem 2023; 66:12776-12811. [PMID: 37708384 PMCID: PMC10544018 DOI: 10.1021/acs.jmedchem.3c00434] [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: 03/10/2023] [Indexed: 09/16/2023]
Abstract
Hypoxia-inducible factor-1α (HIF-1α) constitutes the principal mediator of cellular adaptation to hypoxia in humans. The HIF-1α protein level and activity are tightly regulated by the ubiquitin E3 ligase von Hippel-Lindau (VHL). Here, we performed a structure-guided and bioactivity-driven design of new VHL inhibitors. Our iterative and combinatorial strategy focused on chemical variability at the phenylene unit and encompassed further points of diversity. The exploitation of tailored phenylene fragments and the stereoselective installation of the benzylic methyl group provided potent VHL ligands. Three high-resolution structures of VHL-ligand complexes were determined, and bioactive conformations of these ligands were explored. The most potent inhibitor (30) exhibited dissociation constants lower than 40 nM, independently determined by fluorescence polarization and surface plasmon resonance and an enhanced cellular potency, as evidenced by its superior ability to induce HIF-1α transcriptional activity. Our work is anticipated to inspire future efforts toward HIF-1α stabilizers and new ligands for proteolysis-targeting chimera (PROTAC) degraders.
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Affiliation(s)
- Lan Phuong Vu
- Pharmaceutical
Institute, Pharmaceutical & Medicinal Chemistry, University of Bonn, An der Immenburg 4, D-53121 Bonn, Germany
- Centre
for Targeted Protein Degradation, School of Life Sciences, University of Dundee, 1 James Lindsay Place, Dundee, Scotland DD1 5JJ, U.K.
| | - Claudia J. Diehl
- Centre
for Targeted Protein Degradation, School of Life Sciences, University of Dundee, 1 James Lindsay Place, Dundee, Scotland DD1 5JJ, U.K.
| | - Ryan Casement
- Centre
for Targeted Protein Degradation, School of Life Sciences, University of Dundee, 1 James Lindsay Place, Dundee, Scotland DD1 5JJ, U.K.
| | - Adam G. Bond
- Centre
for Targeted Protein Degradation, School of Life Sciences, University of Dundee, 1 James Lindsay Place, Dundee, Scotland DD1 5JJ, U.K.
| | - Christian Steinebach
- Pharmaceutical
Institute, Pharmaceutical & Medicinal Chemistry, University of Bonn, An der Immenburg 4, D-53121 Bonn, Germany
| | - Nika Strašek
- Faculty
of Pharmacy, University of Ljubljana, Aškerčeva 7, SI-1000 Ljubljana, Slovenia
| | - Aleša Bricelj
- Faculty
of Pharmacy, University of Ljubljana, Aškerčeva 7, SI-1000 Ljubljana, Slovenia
| | - Andrej Perdih
- Faculty
of Pharmacy, University of Ljubljana, Aškerčeva 7, SI-1000 Ljubljana, Slovenia
- National
Institute of Chemistry, Hajdrihova 19, SI-1000 Ljubljana, Slovenia
| | - Gregor Schnakenburg
- Institute
of Inorganic Chemistry, University of Bonn, Gerhard-Domagk-Straße 1, D-53121 Bonn, Germany
| | - Izidor Sosič
- Faculty
of Pharmacy, University of Ljubljana, Aškerčeva 7, SI-1000 Ljubljana, Slovenia
| | - Alessio Ciulli
- Centre
for Targeted Protein Degradation, School of Life Sciences, University of Dundee, 1 James Lindsay Place, Dundee, Scotland DD1 5JJ, U.K.
| | - Michael Gütschow
- Pharmaceutical
Institute, Pharmaceutical & Medicinal Chemistry, University of Bonn, An der Immenburg 4, D-53121 Bonn, Germany
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24
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Chen Z, Hu B, Rej RK, Wu D, Acharyya RK, Wang M, Xu T, Lu J, Metwally H, Wang Y, McEachern D, Bai L, Gersch CL, Wang M, Zhang W, Li Q, Wen B, Sun D, Rae JM, Wang S. Discovery of ERD-3111 as a Potent and Orally Efficacious Estrogen Receptor PROTAC Degrader with Strong Antitumor Activity. J Med Chem 2023; 66:12559-12585. [PMID: 37647546 DOI: 10.1021/acs.jmedchem.3c01186] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 09/01/2023]
Abstract
Estrogen receptor α (ERα) is a prime target for the treatment of ER-positive (ER+) breast cancer. Despite the development of several effective therapies targeting ERα signaling, clinical resistance remains a major challenge. In this study, we report the discovery of a new class of potent and orally bioavailable ERα degraders using the PROTAC technology, with ERD-3111 being the most promising compound. ERD-3111 exhibits potent in vitro degradation activity against ERα and demonstrates high oral bioavailability in mice, rats, and dogs. Oral administration of ERD-3111 effectively reduces the levels of wild-type and mutated ERα proteins in tumor tissues. ERD-3111 achieves tumor regression or complete tumor growth inhibition in the parental MCF-7 xenograft model with wild-type ER and two clinically relevant ESR1 mutated models in mice. ERD-3111 is a promising ERα degrader for further extensive evaluations for the treatment of ER+ breast cancer.
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Affiliation(s)
- Zhixiang Chen
- Department of Internal Medicine, Division of Hematology/Oncology, University of Michigan, Ann Arbor, Michigan 48109, United States
| | - Biao Hu
- Department of Internal Medicine, Division of Hematology/Oncology, University of Michigan, Ann Arbor, Michigan 48109, United States
| | - Rohan Kalyan Rej
- Department of Internal Medicine, Division of Hematology/Oncology, University of Michigan, Ann Arbor, Michigan 48109, United States
| | - Dimin Wu
- Department of Internal Medicine, Division of Hematology/Oncology, University of Michigan, Ann Arbor, Michigan 48109, United States
| | - Ranjan Kumar Acharyya
- Department of Internal Medicine, Division of Hematology/Oncology, University of Michigan, Ann Arbor, Michigan 48109, United States
| | - Mingliang Wang
- Department of Internal Medicine, Division of Hematology/Oncology, University of Michigan, Ann Arbor, Michigan 48109, United States
| | - Tianfeng Xu
- Department of Internal Medicine, Division of Hematology/Oncology, University of Michigan, Ann Arbor, Michigan 48109, United States
| | - Jianfeng Lu
- Department of Internal Medicine, Division of Hematology/Oncology, University of Michigan, Ann Arbor, Michigan 48109, United States
| | - Hoda Metwally
- Department of Internal Medicine, Division of Hematology/Oncology, University of Michigan, Ann Arbor, Michigan 48109, United States
| | - Yu Wang
- Department of Internal Medicine, Division of Hematology/Oncology, University of Michigan, Ann Arbor, Michigan 48109, United States
| | - Donna McEachern
- Department of Internal Medicine, Division of Hematology/Oncology, University of Michigan, Ann Arbor, Michigan 48109, United States
| | - Longchuan Bai
- Department of Internal Medicine, Division of Hematology/Oncology, University of Michigan, Ann Arbor, Michigan 48109, United States
| | - Christina L Gersch
- Department of Internal Medicine, Division of Hematology/Oncology, University of Michigan, Ann Arbor, Michigan 48109, United States
| | - Meilin Wang
- Department of Pharmaceutical Sciences, College of Pharmacy, University of Michigan, Ann Arbor, Michigan 48109, United States
| | - Wenjing Zhang
- Department of Pharmaceutical Sciences, College of Pharmacy, University of Michigan, Ann Arbor, Michigan 48109, United States
| | - Qiuxia Li
- Department of Pharmaceutical Sciences, College of Pharmacy, University of Michigan, Ann Arbor, Michigan 48109, United States
| | - Bo Wen
- Department of Pharmaceutical Sciences, College of Pharmacy, University of Michigan, Ann Arbor, Michigan 48109, United States
| | - Duxin Sun
- Department of Pharmaceutical Sciences, College of Pharmacy, University of Michigan, Ann Arbor, Michigan 48109, United States
| | - James M Rae
- Department of Internal Medicine, Division of Hematology/Oncology, University of Michigan, Ann Arbor, Michigan 48109, United States
- Department of Pharmacology, University of Michigan, Ann Arbor, Michigan 48109, United States
- The Rogel Cancer Center, University of Michigan, Ann Arbor, Michigan 48109, United States
| | - Shaomeng Wang
- Department of Internal Medicine, Division of Hematology/Oncology, University of Michigan, Ann Arbor, Michigan 48109, United States
- Department of Pharmacology, University of Michigan, Ann Arbor, Michigan 48109, United States
- Department of Medicinal Chemistry, College of Pharmacy, University of Michigan, Ann Arbor, Michigan 48109, United States
- The Rogel Cancer Center, University of Michigan, Ann Arbor, Michigan 48109, United States
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25
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Sakanyan V, Iradyan N, Alves de Sousa R. Targeted Strategies for Degradation of Key Transmembrane Proteins in Cancer. BIOTECH 2023; 12:57. [PMID: 37754201 PMCID: PMC10526213 DOI: 10.3390/biotech12030057] [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: 07/05/2023] [Revised: 07/26/2023] [Accepted: 07/30/2023] [Indexed: 09/28/2023] Open
Abstract
Targeted protein degradation is an attractive technology for cancer treatment due to its ability to overcome the unpredictability of the small molecule inhibitors that cause resistance mutations. In recent years, various targeted protein degradation strategies have been developed based on the ubiquitin-proteasome system in the cytoplasm or the autophagy-lysosomal system during endocytosis. In this review, we describe and compare technologies for the targeted inhibition and targeted degradation of the epidermal growth factor receptor (EGFR), one of the major proteins responsible for the onset and progression of many types of cancer. In addition, we develop an alternative strategy, called alloAUTO, based on the binding of new heterocyclic compounds to an allosteric site located in close proximity to the EGFR catalytic site. These compounds cause the targeted degradation of the transmembrane receptor, simultaneously activating both systems of protein degradation in cells. Damage to the EGFR signaling pathways promotes the inactivation of Bim sensor protein phosphorylation, which leads to the disintegration of the cytoskeleton, followed by the detachment of cancer cells from the extracellular matrix, and, ultimately, to cancer cell death. This hallmark of targeted cancer cell death suggests an advantage over other targeted protein degradation strategies, namely, the fewer cancer cells that survive mean fewer chemotherapy-resistant mutants appear.
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Affiliation(s)
- Vehary Sakanyan
- Faculté de Pharmacie, Université de Nantes, 44035 Nantes, France
- ProtNeteomix, 29 rue de Provence, 44700 Orvault, France
| | - Nina Iradyan
- Institute of Fine Organic Chemistry after A. Mnjoyan, National Academy of Sciences of the Republic of Armenia, Yerevan 0014, Armenia;
| | - Rodolphe Alves de Sousa
- Faculté des Sciences Fondamentales et Biomédicales, Université Paris Descartes, UMR 8601, CBMIT, 75006 Paris, France;
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26
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Yang L, Tu W, Huang L, Miao B, Kaneshige A, Jiang W, Leng L, Wang M, Wen B, Sun D, Wang S. Discovery of SMD-3040 as a Potent and Selective SMARCA2 PROTAC Degrader with Strong in vivo Antitumor Activity. J Med Chem 2023; 66:10761-10781. [PMID: 37523716 DOI: 10.1021/acs.jmedchem.3c00953] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 08/02/2023]
Abstract
SMARCA2 is an attractive synthetic lethality target for human cancers with SMARCA4 deficiency. Herein, we report the design, synthesis, and biological evaluation of selective SMARCA2 protein degraders developed using the proteolysis targeting chimera (PROTAC) technology. Our efforts have led to the discovery of a series of potent and selective SMARCA2 degraders, exemplified by SMD-3040. SMD-3040 degrades SMARCA2 protein with a low nanomolar DC50 and Dmax > 90% and demonstrates an excellent degradation selectivity for SMARCA2 protein over SMARCA4 protein. It displays potent cell growth inhibitory activity in a panel of SMARCA4-deficient cancer cell lines and has much weaker activity in SMARCA4 wild-type cancer cell lines. SMD-3040 achieves strong tumor growth inhibition in two SMARCA4-deficient xenograft models at well-tolerated dose schedules. Further optimization of SMD-3040 may lead to the discovery of new therapies for the treatment of human cancers with SMARCA4 deficiency.
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Affiliation(s)
- Lin Yang
- Department of Internal Medicine, University of Michigan, Ann Arbor, Michigan 48109, United States
| | - Wenbin Tu
- Department of Internal Medicine, University of Michigan, Ann Arbor, Michigan 48109, United States
- Department of Medicinal Chemistry, University of Michigan, Ann Arbor, Michigan 48109, United States
| | - Liyue Huang
- Department of Medicinal Chemistry, University of Michigan, Ann Arbor, Michigan 48109, United States
| | - Bukeyan Miao
- Department of Medicinal Chemistry, University of Michigan, Ann Arbor, Michigan 48109, United States
| | - Atsunori Kaneshige
- Department of Internal Medicine, University of Michigan, Ann Arbor, Michigan 48109, United States
- Department of Medicinal Chemistry, University of Michigan, Ann Arbor, Michigan 48109, United States
| | - Wei Jiang
- Department of Medicinal Chemistry, University of Michigan, Ann Arbor, Michigan 48109, United States
- Rogel Cancer Center, University of Michigan, Ann Arbor, Michigan 48109, United States
| | - Lingying Leng
- Department of Medicinal Chemistry, University of Michigan, Ann Arbor, Michigan 48109, United States
| | - Meilin Wang
- Department of Pharmaceutical Sciences, University of Michigan, Ann Arbor, Michigan 48109, United States
| | - Bo Wen
- Department of Pharmaceutical Sciences, University of Michigan, Ann Arbor, Michigan 48109, United States
| | - Duxin Sun
- Rogel Cancer Center, University of Michigan, Ann Arbor, Michigan 48109, United States
- Department of Pharmaceutical Sciences, University of Michigan, Ann Arbor, Michigan 48109, United States
| | - Shaomeng Wang
- Department of Internal Medicine, University of Michigan, Ann Arbor, Michigan 48109, United States
- Department of Medicinal Chemistry, University of Michigan, Ann Arbor, Michigan 48109, United States
- Department of Pharmacology, University of Michigan, Ann Arbor, Michigan 48109, United States
- Rogel Cancer Center, University of Michigan, Ann Arbor, Michigan 48109, United States
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27
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Hu J, Hu B, Xu F, Wang M, Qin C, McEachern D, Stuckey J, Wang S. Precise Conformational Control Yielding Highly Potent and Exceptionally Selective BRD4 Degraders with Strong Antitumor Activity. J Med Chem 2023; 66:8222-8237. [PMID: 37289649 PMCID: PMC10436693 DOI: 10.1021/acs.jmedchem.3c00520] [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] [Indexed: 06/10/2023]
Abstract
Starting from a nonselective bromodomain and extraterminal (BET) inhibitor and a cereblon ligand, we have used precise conformational control for the development of two potent and highly selective BRD4 degraders, BD-7148 and BD-9136. These compounds induce rapid degradation of BRD4 protein in cells at concentrations as low as 1 nM and demonstrate ≥1000-fold degradation selectivity over BRD2 or BRD3 protein. Proteomic analysis of >5700 proteins confirmed their highly selective BRD4 degradation. A single dose of BD-9136 selectively and effectively depletes BRD4 protein in tumor tissues for >48 h. BD-9136 effectively inhibits tumor growth without adverse effects on mice and is more efficacious than the corresponding pan BET inhibitor. This study suggests selective degradation of BRD4 as a strategy for the treatment of human cancers and demonstrates a strategy for the design of highly selective PROTAC degraders.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jiantao Hu
- Department of Internal Medicine, University of Michigan, Ann Arbor, MI 48109, USA
| | - Biao Hu
- Department of Internal Medicine, University of Michigan, Ann Arbor, MI 48109, USA
| | - Fuming Xu
- Department of Internal Medicine, University of Michigan, Ann Arbor, MI 48109, USA
| | - Mi Wang
- Department of Internal Medicine, University of Michigan, Ann Arbor, MI 48109, USA
| | - Chong Qin
- Department of Internal Medicine, University of Michigan, Ann Arbor, MI 48109, USA
| | - Donna McEachern
- Department of Internal Medicine, University of Michigan, Ann Arbor, MI 48109, USA
| | - Jeanne Stuckey
- Life Sciences Institute, University of Michigan, Ann Arbor, MI 48109, USA
- Rogel Cancer Center, University of Michigan, Ann Arbor, MI 48109, USA
| | - Shaomeng Wang
- Department of Internal Medicine, University of Michigan, Ann Arbor, MI 48109, USA
- Department of Pharmacology, University of Michigan, Ann Arbor, MI 48109, USA
- Department of Medicinal Chemistry, University of Michigan, Ann Arbor, MI 48109, USA
- Rogel Cancer Center, University of Michigan, Ann Arbor, MI 48109, USA
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28
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Abstract
Proteolysis-targeting chimera (PROTAC) is an emerging technique for degrading disease-related proteins. However, the current PROTACs suffer from inadequate solubility and lack of organ targeting, which has hampered their druggability. Herein, we report direct and sustained delivery of PROTACs using microneedle patches to the diseased tissues. In this study, we use an estrogen receptor alpha (ERα)-degrading PROTAC, ERD308, to treat ER-positive breast cancer. A pH-sensitive micelle, MPEG-poly(β-amino ester) (MPEG-PAE), is used to encapsulate ERD308 along with an FDA-approved CDK4/6 inhibitor, Palbociclib (Pal), before loading into biodegradable microneedle patches. These patches enable prolonged drug release into deep tumors, maintaining therapeutic levels for at least 4 days, with an excellent drug retention rate of over 87% in tumors. ERD308 released from the microneedle patches can sufficiently degrade ERα in MCF7 cells. Co-administration of ERD308 and Palbociclib exhibits excellent efficacy by over 80% tumor reduction as well as a good safety profile. Our work demonstrates the feasibility and proof-of-concept therapeutic potential of using microneedle patches to directly deliver PROTACs into tumors.
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Affiliation(s)
- Xiao Cheng
- Joint Department of Biomedical Engineering, University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill, Chapel Hill, North Carolina 27599, United States, and North Carolina State University, Raleigh, North Carolina 27606, United States
- Department of Molecular Biomedical Sciences and Comparative Medicine Institute, North Carolina State University, Raleigh, North Carolina 27607, United States
| | - Shiqi Hu
- Joint Department of Biomedical Engineering, University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill, Chapel Hill, North Carolina 27599, United States, and North Carolina State University, Raleigh, North Carolina 27606, United States
- Department of Molecular Biomedical Sciences and Comparative Medicine Institute, North Carolina State University, Raleigh, North Carolina 27607, United States
| | - Ke Cheng
- Joint Department of Biomedical Engineering, University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill, Chapel Hill, North Carolina 27599, United States, and North Carolina State University, Raleigh, North Carolina 27606, United States
- Department of Molecular Biomedical Sciences and Comparative Medicine Institute, North Carolina State University, Raleigh, North Carolina 27607, United States
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29
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Liang J, Wu Y, Lan K, Dong C, Wu S, Li S, Zhou HB. Antiviral PROTACs: Opportunity borne with challenge. CELL INSIGHT 2023; 2:100092. [PMID: 37398636 PMCID: PMC10308200 DOI: 10.1016/j.cellin.2023.100092] [Citation(s) in RCA: 13] [Impact Index Per Article: 13.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/23/2022] [Revised: 03/15/2023] [Accepted: 03/16/2023] [Indexed: 07/04/2023]
Abstract
Proteolysis targeting chimera (PROTAC) degradation of pathogenic proteins by hijacking of the ubiquitin-proteasome-system has become a promising strategy in drug design. The overwhelming advantages of PROTAC technology have ensured a rapid and wide usage, and multiple PROTACs have entered clinical trials. Several antiviral PROTACs have been developed with promising bioactivities against various pathogenic viruses. However, the number of reported antiviral PROTACs is far less than that of other diseases, e.g., cancers, immune disorders, and neurodegenerative diseases, possibly because of the common deficiencies of PROTAC technology (e.g., limited available ligands and poor membrane permeability) plus the complex mechanism involved and the high tendency of viral mutation during transmission and replication, which may challenge the successful development of effective antiviral PROTACs. This review highlights the important advances in this rapidly growing field and critical limitations encountered in developing antiviral PROTACs by analyzing the current status and representative examples of antiviral PROTACs and other PROTAC-like antiviral agents. We also summarize and analyze the general principles and strategies for antiviral PROTAC design and optimization with the intent of indicating the potential strategic directions for future progress.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jinsen Liang
- Medical Research Institute, Frontier Science Center for Immunology and Metabolism, Wuhan University, Wuhan, 430071, China
| | - Yihe Wu
- Provincial Key Laboratory of Developmentally Originated Disease, Key Laboratory of Combinatorial Biosynthesis and Drug Discovery (MOE) and Hubei Province Engineering and Technology Research Center for Fluorinated Pharmaceuticals, School of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Wuhan University, Wuhan, 430071, China
| | - Ke Lan
- State Key Laboratory of Virology, College of Life Sciences, Wuhan University, Wuhan, 430072, China
| | - Chune Dong
- Medical Research Institute, Frontier Science Center for Immunology and Metabolism, Wuhan University, Wuhan, 430071, China
| | - Shuwen Wu
- State Key Laboratory of Virology, College of Life Sciences, Wuhan University, Wuhan, 430072, China
| | - Shu Li
- Medical Research Institute, Frontier Science Center for Immunology and Metabolism, Wuhan University, Wuhan, 430071, China
| | - Hai-Bing Zhou
- Medical Research Institute, Frontier Science Center for Immunology and Metabolism, Wuhan University, Wuhan, 430071, China
- Provincial Key Laboratory of Developmentally Originated Disease, Key Laboratory of Combinatorial Biosynthesis and Drug Discovery (MOE) and Hubei Province Engineering and Technology Research Center for Fluorinated Pharmaceuticals, School of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Wuhan University, Wuhan, 430071, China
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30
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Xie B, Yin Z, Hu Z, Lv J, Du C, Deng X, Huang Y, Li Q, Huang J, Liang K, Zhou HB, Dong C. Discovery of a Novel Class of PROTACs as Potent and Selective Estrogen Receptor α Degraders to Overcome Endocrine-Resistant Breast Cancer In Vitro and In Vivo. J Med Chem 2023; 66:6631-6651. [PMID: 37161783 DOI: 10.1021/acs.jmedchem.2c02032] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 05/11/2023]
Abstract
The estrogen receptor (ER) is a well-established target for endocrine therapies of ER-positive breast cancer (ER+ BC), but endocrine resistance limits the efficacy of clinical drugs. Using proteolysis targeting chimera (PROTAC) technology to degrade ERα may be an effective alternative to endocrine therapies. Herein, we disclose a novel series of potent and selective ERα PROTACs based on an oxabicycloheptane sulfonamide (OBHSA) scaffold, with no associated ERβ degradation. These PROTACs showed significant antiproliferation and ERα degradation activities against a broad spectrum of ER+ BC cells including tamoxifen-resistant and ERα mutant cell lines. Genomics analysis confirmed that these PROTACs inhibited the nascent RNA synthesis of ERα target genes and impaired genome-wide ERα binding. Compound ZD12 exhibited excellent antitumor potency and ERα degradation activity in both tamoxifen-sensitive and -resistant BC mice models, which are superior to fulvestrant. This study demonstrates the potential of these PROTACs as novel drug candidates for endocrine-resistant BC treatment.
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Affiliation(s)
- Baohua Xie
- Department of Hematology, Zhongnan Hospital of Wuhan University, School of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Wuhan University, Wuhan 430071, China
| | - Zhinang Yin
- Department of Pathophysiology, School of Basic Medical Sciences, Wuhan University, Wuhan 430071, China
| | - Zhiye Hu
- Department of Hematology, Zhongnan Hospital of Wuhan University, School of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Wuhan University, Wuhan 430071, China
| | - Junhui Lv
- Department of Pathophysiology, School of Basic Medical Sciences, Wuhan University, Wuhan 430071, China
| | - Chuanqian Du
- Department of Hematology, Zhongnan Hospital of Wuhan University, School of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Wuhan University, Wuhan 430071, China
| | - Xiangping Deng
- Hubei Key Laboratory of Cell Homeostasis, College of Life Sciences, Wuhan University, Wuhan 430072, China
| | - Yuan Huang
- Department of Hematology, Zhongnan Hospital of Wuhan University, School of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Wuhan University, Wuhan 430071, China
| | - Qiuzi Li
- Hubei Key Laboratory of Cell Homeostasis, College of Life Sciences, Wuhan University, Wuhan 430072, China
| | - Jian Huang
- Hubei Key Laboratory of Cell Homeostasis, College of Life Sciences, Wuhan University, Wuhan 430072, China
| | - Kaiwei Liang
- Department of Pathophysiology, School of Basic Medical Sciences, Wuhan University, Wuhan 430071, China
| | - Hai-Bing Zhou
- Department of Hematology, Zhongnan Hospital of Wuhan University, School of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Wuhan University, Wuhan 430071, China
- Frontier Science Center for Immunology and Metabolism, State Key Laboratory of Virology, Provincial Key Laboratory of Developmentally Originated Disease, Key Laboratory of Combinatorial Biosynthesis and Drug Discovery (MOE) and Hubei Province Engineering and Technology Research Center for Fluorinated Pharmaceuticals, Wuhan University, Wuhan 430071, China
| | - Chune Dong
- Department of Hematology, Zhongnan Hospital of Wuhan University, School of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Wuhan University, Wuhan 430071, China
- Frontier Science Center for Immunology and Metabolism, State Key Laboratory of Virology, Provincial Key Laboratory of Developmentally Originated Disease, Key Laboratory of Combinatorial Biosynthesis and Drug Discovery (MOE) and Hubei Province Engineering and Technology Research Center for Fluorinated Pharmaceuticals, Wuhan University, Wuhan 430071, China
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31
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Li Q, Zhou L, Qin S, Huang Z, Li B, Liu R, Yang M, Nice EC, Zhu H, Huang C. Proteolysis-targeting chimeras in biotherapeutics: Current trends and future applications. Eur J Med Chem 2023; 257:115447. [PMID: 37229829 DOI: 10.1016/j.ejmech.2023.115447] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/12/2023] [Revised: 05/02/2023] [Accepted: 05/02/2023] [Indexed: 05/27/2023]
Abstract
The success of inhibitor-based therapeutics is largely constrained by the acquisition of therapeutic resistance, which is partially driven by the undruggable proteome. The emergence of proteolysis targeting chimera (PROTAC) technology, designed for degrading proteins involved in specific biological processes, might provide a novel framework for solving the above constraint. A heterobifunctional PROTAC molecule could structurally connect an E3 ubiquitin ligase ligand with a protein of interest (POI)-binding ligand by chemical linkers. Such technology would result in the degradation of the targeted protein via the ubiquitin-proteasome system (UPS), opening up a novel way of selectively inhibiting undruggable proteins. Herein, we will highlight the advantages of PROTAC technology and summarize the current understanding of the potential mechanisms involved in biotherapeutics, with a particular focus on its application and development where therapeutic benefits over classical small-molecule inhibitors have been achieved. Finally, we discuss how this technology can contribute to developing biotherapeutic drugs, such as antivirals against infectious diseases, for use in clinical practices.
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Affiliation(s)
- Qiong Li
- West China School of Basic Medical Sciences and Forensic Medicine, State Key Laboratory of Biotherapy and Cancer Center, and West China Hospital, Sichuan University, and Collaborative Innovation Center for Biotherapy, Chengdu, 610041, PR China
| | - Li Zhou
- Key Laboratory of Molecular Biology for Infectious Diseases (Ministry of Education), Institute for Viral Hepatitis, Department of Infectious Diseases, The Second Affiliated Hospital, Chongqing Medical University, Chongqing, 400016, PR China
| | - Siyuan Qin
- West China School of Basic Medical Sciences and Forensic Medicine, State Key Laboratory of Biotherapy and Cancer Center, and West China Hospital, Sichuan University, and Collaborative Innovation Center for Biotherapy, Chengdu, 610041, PR China
| | - Zhao Huang
- West China School of Basic Medical Sciences and Forensic Medicine, State Key Laboratory of Biotherapy and Cancer Center, and West China Hospital, Sichuan University, and Collaborative Innovation Center for Biotherapy, Chengdu, 610041, PR China
| | - Bowen Li
- West China School of Basic Medical Sciences and Forensic Medicine, State Key Laboratory of Biotherapy and Cancer Center, and West China Hospital, Sichuan University, and Collaborative Innovation Center for Biotherapy, Chengdu, 610041, PR China
| | - Ruolan Liu
- School of Basic Medical Sciences, Chengdu University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Chengdu, 611137, PR China
| | - Mei Yang
- West China School of Basic Medical Sciences and Forensic Medicine, State Key Laboratory of Biotherapy and Cancer Center, and West China Hospital, Sichuan University, and Collaborative Innovation Center for Biotherapy, Chengdu, 610041, PR China
| | - Edouard C Nice
- Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, Monash University, Clayton, VIC, Australia
| | - Huili Zhu
- Department of Reproductive Medicine, Key Laboratory of Birth Defects and Related Diseases of Women and Children of Ministry of Education, West China Second University Hospital of Sichuan University, Chengdu, 610041, PR China.
| | - Canhua Huang
- West China School of Basic Medical Sciences and Forensic Medicine, State Key Laboratory of Biotherapy and Cancer Center, and West China Hospital, Sichuan University, and Collaborative Innovation Center for Biotherapy, Chengdu, 610041, PR China; School of Basic Medical Sciences, Chengdu University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Chengdu, 611137, PR China.
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Xie B, Xu B, Xin L, Wei Y, Guo X, Dong C. Discovery of estrogen receptor α targeting caged hypoxia-responsive PROTACs with an inherent bicyclic skeleton for breast cancer treatment. Bioorg Chem 2023; 137:106590. [PMID: 37163809 DOI: 10.1016/j.bioorg.2023.106590] [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: 02/14/2023] [Revised: 04/12/2023] [Accepted: 05/02/2023] [Indexed: 05/12/2023]
Abstract
In view of the potential off-target effects of antitumor drugs, including proteolysis targeting chimera (PROTAC), certain toxic effects may be caused in normal tissues. Herein, based on the characteristics of the tumor microenvironment, we reported the first estrogen receptor α (ERα) targeting hypoxia-responsive PROTACs in order to improve their safety in breast cancer treatment by introducing two hypoxia-activated groups, nitroimidazole and nitrobenzene, into the ER ligand or E3 ligand of an active PROTAC, which has certain cytotoxicity in normal cells. Bioactivity studies showed that these hypoxia-responsive PROTACs exhibited excellent hypoxic responsiveness and ERα degradation activity under hypoxic conditions, and thus improved the toxic effects of the active PROTAC in normal cells. It is expected that our caged compounds provide a new strategy for precise functional control of PROTAC drugs for breast cancer treatment.
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Affiliation(s)
- Baohua Xie
- Key Laboratory of Combinatorial Biosynthesis and Drug Discovery (MOE), School of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Wuhan University, Wuhan 430071, China
| | - Bin Xu
- Key Laboratory of Combinatorial Biosynthesis and Drug Discovery (MOE), School of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Wuhan University, Wuhan 430071, China
| | - Lilan Xin
- Key Laboratory of Combinatorial Biosynthesis and Drug Discovery (MOE), School of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Wuhan University, Wuhan 430071, China
| | - Yizhou Wei
- Wuhan Britain-China School, Wuhan 430030, China
| | - Xinyi Guo
- Key Laboratory of Combinatorial Biosynthesis and Drug Discovery (MOE), School of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Wuhan University, Wuhan 430071, China
| | - Chune Dong
- Key Laboratory of Combinatorial Biosynthesis and Drug Discovery (MOE), School of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Wuhan University, Wuhan 430071, China; Hubei Province Engineering and Technology Research Center for Fluorinated Pharmaceuticals, Wuhan University, Wuhan 430071, China.
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33
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Si R, Hai P, Zheng Y, Liu N, Wang J, Zhang Q, Li Y, Pan X, Zhang J. Discovery of novel PROTACs based on multi-targeted angiogenesis inhibitors. Bioorg Med Chem Lett 2023; 87:129275. [PMID: 37030566 DOI: 10.1016/j.bmcl.2023.129275] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/11/2023] [Revised: 03/29/2023] [Accepted: 04/04/2023] [Indexed: 04/10/2023]
Abstract
Anti-angiogenesis has been proved to be an effective strategy for the treatment of tumors. Anti-angiogenic drugs had achieved certain therapeutic effects. However, drug resistance also gradually emerged and limited the application of angiogenesis inhibitors. Proteolysis Targeting Chimeras (PROTACs) are bifunctional molecules capable of degrading proteins through the ubiquitin-proteasome system (UPS). Compared with traditional inhibitors, they displayed advantages of less dosage, lower toxicity and less resistance. In this study, we designed and synthesized a series of novel PROTACs based on our recently reported multi-targeted angiogenesis inhibitor S5. Preliminary biological evaluation of title PROTACs was carried out in various cell lines. The results indicated that these novel bifunctional PROTACs displayed potential in degrading BRAF protein. Their degradation mechanism showed that the degradation of BRAF by PROTAC-1 was dependent on binding to target proteins and E3 ubiquitin ligase. Our findings provided further evidence that these novel PROTACs could be considered in further application in overcome of clinical resistance of traditional angiogenesis inhibitors.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ru Si
- School of Pharmacy, Health Science Center, Xi'an Jiaotong University, Xi'an 710061, China
| | - Ping Hai
- NMPA Key Laboratory for Quality Control of Traditional Chinese and Tibetan Medicine, Qinghai Provincial Drug Inspection and Testing Institute, Xining 810016, China
| | - Yongbiao Zheng
- NMPA Key Laboratory for Quality Control of Traditional Chinese and Tibetan Medicine, Qinghai Provincial Drug Inspection and Testing Institute, Xining 810016, China
| | - Nanxin Liu
- School of Pharmacy, Health Science Center, Xi'an Jiaotong University, Xi'an 710061, China
| | - Jin Wang
- School of Pharmacy, Health Science Center, Xi'an Jiaotong University, Xi'an 710061, China
| | - Qingqing Zhang
- School of Pharmacy, Health Science Center, Xi'an Jiaotong University, Xi'an 710061, China
| | - Yanchen Li
- School of Pharmacy, Health Science Center, Xi'an Jiaotong University, Xi'an 710061, China
| | - Xiaoyan Pan
- School of Pharmacy, Health Science Center, Xi'an Jiaotong University, Xi'an 710061, China
| | - Jie Zhang
- School of Pharmacy, Health Science Center, Xi'an Jiaotong University, Xi'an 710061, China.
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34
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Ng YL, Bricelj A, Jansen JA, Murgai A, Peter K, Donovan KA, Gütschow M, Krönke J, Steinebach C, Sosič I. Heterobifunctional Ligase Recruiters Enable pan-Degradation of Inhibitor of Apoptosis Proteins. J Med Chem 2023; 66:4703-4733. [PMID: 36996313 PMCID: PMC10108347 DOI: 10.1021/acs.jmedchem.2c01817] [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: 11/07/2022] [Indexed: 04/01/2023]
Abstract
Proteolysis targeting chimeras (PROTACs) represent a new pharmacological modality to inactivate disease-causing proteins. PROTACs operate via recruiting E3 ubiquitin ligases, which enable the transfer of ubiquitin tags onto their target proteins, leading to proteasomal degradation. However, several E3 ligases are validated pharmacological targets themselves, of which inhibitor of apoptosis (IAP) proteins are considered druggable in cancer. Here, we report three series of heterobifunctional PROTACs, which consist of an IAP antagonist linked to either von Hippel-Lindau- or cereblon-recruiting ligands. Hijacking E3 ligases against each other led to potent, rapid, and preferential depletion of cellular IAPs. In addition, these compounds caused complete X-chromosome-linked IAP knockdown, which was rarely observed for monovalent and homobivalent IAP antagonists. In cellular assays, hit degrader 9 outperformed antagonists and showed potent inhibition of cancer cell viability. The hetero-PROTACs disclosed herein are valuable tools to facilitate studies of the biological roles of IAPs and will stimulate further efforts toward E3-targeting therapies.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yuen Lam
Dora Ng
- Department
of Hematology, Oncology and Cancer Immunology, Charité—Universitätsmedizin Berlin, Corporate
Member of Freie Universität Berlin and Humboldt-Universität
zu Berlin, D-12203 Berlin, Germany
| | - Aleša Bricelj
- Faculty
of Pharmacy, University of Ljubljana, Aškerčeva Cesta 7, SI-1000 Ljubljana, Slovenia
| | - Jacqueline A. Jansen
- Department
of Hematology, Oncology and Cancer Immunology, Charité—Universitätsmedizin Berlin, Corporate
Member of Freie Universität Berlin and Humboldt-Universität
zu Berlin, D-12203 Berlin, Germany
| | - Arunima Murgai
- Department
of Hematology, Oncology and Cancer Immunology, Charité—Universitätsmedizin Berlin, Corporate
Member of Freie Universität Berlin and Humboldt-Universität
zu Berlin, D-12203 Berlin, Germany
- German
Cancer Consortium (DKTK) Partner Site Berlin and German Cancer Research
Center (DKFZ), D-69120 Heidelberg, Germany
| | - Kirsten Peter
- Department
of Hematology, Oncology and Cancer Immunology, Charité—Universitätsmedizin Berlin, Corporate
Member of Freie Universität Berlin and Humboldt-Universität
zu Berlin, D-12203 Berlin, Germany
| | - Katherine A. Donovan
- Department
of Cancer Biology, Dana-Farber Cancer Institute, Boston, Massachusetts 02215, United States
- Department
of Biological Chemistry and Molecular Pharmacology, Harvard Medical School, Boston, Massachusetts 02215, United States
| | - Michael Gütschow
- Phamaceutical
Institute, Department of Pharmaceutical & Medicinal Chemistry, University of Bonn, An der Immenburg 4, D-53121 Bonn, Germany
| | - Jan Krönke
- Department
of Hematology, Oncology and Cancer Immunology, Charité—Universitätsmedizin Berlin, Corporate
Member of Freie Universität Berlin and Humboldt-Universität
zu Berlin, D-12203 Berlin, Germany
- German
Cancer Consortium (DKTK) Partner Site Berlin and German Cancer Research
Center (DKFZ), D-69120 Heidelberg, Germany
| | - Christian Steinebach
- Phamaceutical
Institute, Department of Pharmaceutical & Medicinal Chemistry, University of Bonn, An der Immenburg 4, D-53121 Bonn, Germany
| | - Izidor Sosič
- Faculty
of Pharmacy, University of Ljubljana, Aškerčeva Cesta 7, SI-1000 Ljubljana, Slovenia
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Wang H, Wang C, Li B, Zheng C, Liu G, Liu Z, Zhang L, Xu P. Discovery of ML210-Based glutathione peroxidase 4 (GPX4) degrader inducing ferroptosis of human cancer cells. Eur J Med Chem 2023; 254:115343. [PMID: 37087895 DOI: 10.1016/j.ejmech.2023.115343] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/18/2023] [Revised: 03/27/2023] [Accepted: 04/03/2023] [Indexed: 04/25/2023]
Abstract
Ferroptosis is an iron-dependent cell death caused by the accumulation of lipid peroxidation. The glutathione peroxidase 4 (GPX4) is an antioxidative enzyme and a major regulator of ferroptosis. Targeting GPX4 has become a promising strategy for cancer therapy. Here in this article, we designed and synthesized a series of GPX4 degraders using ML210 as a warhead. DC-2 among them has been found to have the best degradation activity with the DC50 value of 0.03 μM in HT1080 cells. It also showed an obvious cell growth inhibition effect with the IC50 value of 0.1 μM in HT1080 cells. Mechanism research showed that DC-2 induced GPX4 degradation via the ubiquitin-proteasome pathway and autophagy-lysosome pathway. GPX4 degradation induced by DC-2 could result in the accumulation of ROS and subsequent ferroptosis. The pharmacodynamics study showed that DC-2 could reduce the GPX4 level in HT1080 tumor tissue in mice and has a good safety profile. Above all, a potent and safe compound DC-2 has been found to induce GPX4 degradation and subsequent ferroptosis. This study may lay the foundation for a highly efficient and safe drug with a new mechanism for cancer therapy.
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Affiliation(s)
- Han Wang
- Department of Medicinal Chemistry, School of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Peking University, Beijing, China
| | - Chao Wang
- State Key Laboratory of Natural and Biomimetic Drugs, Department of Medicinal Chemistry, School of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Peking University, Beijing, China.
| | - Bingru Li
- State Key Laboratory of Natural and Biomimetic Drugs, Department of Chemical Biology, School of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Peking University, Beijing, China
| | - Cangxin Zheng
- Department of Medicinal Chemistry, School of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Peking University, Beijing, China
| | - Guoquan Liu
- State Key Laboratory of Natural and Biomimetic Drugs, Department of Chemical Biology, School of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Peking University, Beijing, China
| | - Zhenming Liu
- State Key Laboratory of Natural and Biomimetic Drugs, Department of Medicinal Chemistry, School of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Peking University, Beijing, China
| | - Liangren Zhang
- State Key Laboratory of Natural and Biomimetic Drugs, Department of Medicinal Chemistry, School of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Peking University, Beijing, China
| | - Ping Xu
- Department of Medicinal Chemistry, School of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Peking University, Beijing, China.
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Kelm JM, Pandey DS, Malin E, Kansou H, Arora S, Kumar R, Gavande NS. PROTAC'ing oncoproteins: targeted protein degradation for cancer therapy. Mol Cancer 2023; 22:62. [PMID: 36991452 PMCID: PMC10061819 DOI: 10.1186/s12943-022-01707-5] [Citation(s) in RCA: 23] [Impact Index Per Article: 23.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/08/2022] [Accepted: 12/23/2022] [Indexed: 03/31/2023] Open
Abstract
Molecularly targeted cancer therapies substantially improve patient outcomes, although the durability of their effectiveness can be limited. Resistance to these therapies is often related to adaptive changes in the target oncoprotein which reduce binding affinity. The arsenal of targeted cancer therapies, moreover, lacks coverage of several notorious oncoproteins with challenging features for inhibitor development. Degraders are a relatively new therapeutic modality which deplete the target protein by hijacking the cellular protein destruction machinery. Degraders offer several advantages for cancer therapy including resiliency to acquired mutations in the target protein, enhanced selectivity, lower dosing requirements, and the potential to abrogate oncogenic transcription factors and scaffolding proteins. Herein, we review the development of proteolysis targeting chimeras (PROTACs) for selected cancer therapy targets and their reported biological activities. The medicinal chemistry of PROTAC design has been a challenging area of active research, but the recent advances in the field will usher in an era of rational degrader design.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jeremy M Kelm
- Department of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Eugene Applebaum College of Pharmacy and Health Sciences (EACPHS), Wayne State University, Detroit, MI, 48201, USA
| | - Deepti S Pandey
- Department of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Eugene Applebaum College of Pharmacy and Health Sciences (EACPHS), Wayne State University, Detroit, MI, 48201, USA
| | - Evan Malin
- Department of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Eugene Applebaum College of Pharmacy and Health Sciences (EACPHS), Wayne State University, Detroit, MI, 48201, USA
| | - Hussein Kansou
- Department of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Eugene Applebaum College of Pharmacy and Health Sciences (EACPHS), Wayne State University, Detroit, MI, 48201, USA
| | - Sahil Arora
- Laboratory for Drug Design and Synthesis, Department of Pharmaceutical Sciences and Natural Products, Central University of Punjab, Bathinda, 151401, India
| | - Raj Kumar
- Laboratory for Drug Design and Synthesis, Department of Pharmaceutical Sciences and Natural Products, Central University of Punjab, Bathinda, 151401, India
| | - Navnath S Gavande
- Department of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Eugene Applebaum College of Pharmacy and Health Sciences (EACPHS), Wayne State University, Detroit, MI, 48201, USA.
- Molecular Therapeutics Program, Barbara Ann Karmanos Cancer Institute, Wayne State University School of Medicine, Detroit, MI, 48201, USA.
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Ge Y, Zhan Z, Ye M, Jin X. The crosstalk between ubiquitination and endocrine therapy. J Mol Med (Berl) 2023; 101:461-486. [PMID: 36961537 DOI: 10.1007/s00109-023-02300-z] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/01/2022] [Revised: 02/23/2023] [Accepted: 02/26/2023] [Indexed: 03/25/2023]
Abstract
Endocrine therapy (ET), also known as hormone therapy, refers to the treatment of tumors by regulating and changing the endocrine environment and hormone levels. Its related mechanism is mainly through reducing hormone levels and blocking the binding of hormones to corresponding receptors, thus blocking the signal transduction pathway to stimulate tumor growth. However, with the application of ET, some patients show resistance to ET, which is attributed to abnormal accumulation of hormone receptors (HRs) and the production of multiple mutants of HRs. The targeted degradation of abnormal accumulation protein mediated by ubiquitination is an important approach that regulates the protein level and function of intracellular proteins in eukaryotes. Here, we provide a brief description of the traditional and novel drugs available for ET in this review. Then, we introduce the link between ubiquitination and ET. In the end, we elaborate the clinical application of ET combined with ubiquitination-related molecules. KEY MESSAGES: • A brief description of the traditional and novel drugs available for endocrine therapy (ET). • The link between ubiquitination and ET. • The clinical application of ET combined with ubiquitination-related molecules.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yidong Ge
- The Department of Medical Oncology, The First Hospital of Ningbo University, Ningbo University, Ningbo, 315010, China
- Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, Zhejiang Key Laboratory of Pathophysiology, Health Science Center, Medical School of Ningbo University, Ningbo University, Ningbo, Zhejiang, 315211, China
| | - Ziqing Zhan
- The Department of Medical Oncology, The First Hospital of Ningbo University, Ningbo University, Ningbo, 315010, China
- Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, Zhejiang Key Laboratory of Pathophysiology, Health Science Center, Medical School of Ningbo University, Ningbo University, Ningbo, Zhejiang, 315211, China
| | - Meng Ye
- The Department of Medical Oncology, The First Hospital of Ningbo University, Ningbo University, Ningbo, 315010, China.
- Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, Zhejiang Key Laboratory of Pathophysiology, Health Science Center, Medical School of Ningbo University, Ningbo University, Ningbo, Zhejiang, 315211, China.
| | - Xiaofeng Jin
- The Department of Medical Oncology, The First Hospital of Ningbo University, Ningbo University, Ningbo, 315010, China.
- Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, Zhejiang Key Laboratory of Pathophysiology, Health Science Center, Medical School of Ningbo University, Ningbo University, Ningbo, Zhejiang, 315211, China.
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Abstract
Proteolysis-targeting chimeras (PROTACs) have shown great therapeutic potential by degrading various disease-causing proteins, particularly those related to tumors. Therefore, the introduction of PROTACs has ushered in a new chapter of antitumor drug development, marked by significant advances over recent years. Herein, we describe recent developments in PROTAC technology, focusing on design strategy, development workflow, and future outlooks. We also discuss potential opportunities and challenges for PROTAC research.
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Affiliation(s)
- Minglei Li
- School of Pharmacy and Pharmaceutical Sciences, Shandong First Medical University & Shandong Academy of Medical Sciences, Jinan, 250117 Shandong, P. R. China
| | - Ying Zhi
- School of Pharmacy and Pharmaceutical Sciences, Shandong First Medical University & Shandong Academy of Medical Sciences, Jinan, 250117 Shandong, P. R. China
| | - Bo Liu
- School of Pharmacy and Pharmaceutical Sciences, Shandong First Medical University & Shandong Academy of Medical Sciences, Jinan, 250117 Shandong, P. R. China
| | - Qingqiang Yao
- School of Pharmacy and Pharmaceutical Sciences, Shandong First Medical University & Shandong Academy of Medical Sciences, Jinan, 250117 Shandong, P. R. China
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Wang YW, Lan L, Wang M, Zhang JY, Gao YH, Shi L, Sun LP. PROTACS: A technology with a gold rush-like atmosphere. Eur J Med Chem 2023; 247:115037. [PMID: 36566716 DOI: 10.1016/j.ejmech.2022.115037] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 8.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/28/2022] [Revised: 12/03/2022] [Accepted: 12/18/2022] [Indexed: 12/24/2022]
Abstract
Abnormally expressed or malfunctioning proteins may affect or even damage cells, leading to the onset of diseases. Proteolysis targeting chimera (PROTAC) technology has been proven to be a fresh therapeutic strategy, superior to conventional small molecule inhibitors for the treatment of diseases caused by pathogenic proteins. Unlike conventional small molecule inhibitors that are occupancy-driven, PROTACs are heterobifunctional small molecules with catalytic properties. They combine with E3 ligases and target proteins to form a ternary complex, rendering the target protein ubiquitous and subsequently degraded by the proteasome. This paper focuses first on significant events in the development of PROTAC technology from 2001 to 2022, followed by a brief overview of various PROTACs categorized by target proteins. In addition, the applications of PROTACs in the treatment of diseases and fundamental biology are also under discussion.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yu-Wei Wang
- Jiangsu Key Laboratory of Drug Design & Optimization, Department of Medicinal Chemistry, China Pharmaceutical University, Nanjing, 210009, PR China
| | - Li Lan
- Jiangsu Key Laboratory of Drug Design & Optimization, Department of Medicinal Chemistry, China Pharmaceutical University, Nanjing, 210009, PR China
| | - Min Wang
- Jiangsu Key Laboratory of Drug Design & Optimization, Department of Medicinal Chemistry, China Pharmaceutical University, Nanjing, 210009, PR China
| | - Jin-Yang Zhang
- Jiangsu Key Laboratory of Drug Design & Optimization, Department of Medicinal Chemistry, China Pharmaceutical University, Nanjing, 210009, PR China
| | - Yu-Hui Gao
- Jiangsu Key Laboratory of Drug Design & Optimization, Department of Medicinal Chemistry, China Pharmaceutical University, Nanjing, 210009, PR China
| | - Lei Shi
- Jiangsu Key Laboratory of Drug Design & Optimization, Department of Medicinal Chemistry, China Pharmaceutical University, Nanjing, 210009, PR China
| | - Li-Ping Sun
- Jiangsu Key Laboratory of Drug Design & Optimization, Department of Medicinal Chemistry, China Pharmaceutical University, Nanjing, 210009, PR China.
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Jia X, Han X. Targeting androgen receptor degradation with PROTACs from bench to bedside. Biomed Pharmacother 2023; 158:114112. [PMID: 36508999 DOI: 10.1016/j.biopha.2022.114112] [Citation(s) in RCA: 16] [Impact Index Per Article: 16.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/06/2022] [Revised: 11/29/2022] [Accepted: 12/07/2022] [Indexed: 12/14/2022] Open
Abstract
Inhibition of androgen receptor (AR) has been extensively investigated to treat prostate cancer. Resistance mechanisms such as increased levels of androgen production, increased AR gene, enhancer expression and AR point mutations always reduce the clinical efficacy. Design and discovery of small-molecule PROTAC AR degraders have been pursued as a new therapeutic strategy to overcome common resistance mechanisms developed during prostate cancer treatment. In the last two decades, potent and efficacious PROTAC AR degraders have been gotten rapid development and several such compounds have been advanced into preclinical phase and phase I/II trials for the treatment of human prostate cancers. Especially, the first PROTAC to enter the clinic, ARV-110, has shown good clinical effects in patients with mCRPC. This fully demonstrates the high clinical value of PROTAC strategy in treatment of human diseases. Here, we summarized the recent advances in the development of these potential clinical-stage PROTAC AR degraders.
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Affiliation(s)
- Xiaojuan Jia
- The 2nd Affiliated Hospital, Zhejiang University School of Medicine, Hangzhou, Zhejiang 310058, China
| | - Xin Han
- The 2nd Affiliated Hospital, Zhejiang University School of Medicine, Hangzhou, Zhejiang 310058, China.; Institute of Translational Medicine, Zhejiang University School of Medicine, Hangzhou 310029, China..
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Jiang H, Xiong H, Gu SX, Wang M. E3 ligase ligand optimization of Clinical PROTACs. Front Chem 2023; 11:1098331. [PMID: 36733714 PMCID: PMC9886873 DOI: 10.3389/fchem.2023.1098331] [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: 11/14/2022] [Accepted: 01/06/2023] [Indexed: 01/18/2023] Open
Abstract
Proteolysis targeting chimeras (PROTACs) technology can realize the development of drugs for non-druggable targets that are difficult to achieve with traditional small molecules, and therefore has attracted extensive attention from both academia and industry. Up to now, there are more than 600 known E3 ubiquitin ligases with different structures and functions, but only a few have developed corresponding E3 ubiquitin ligase ligands, and the ligands used to design PROTAC molecules are limited to a few types such as VHL (Von-Hippel-Lindau), CRBN (Cereblon), MDM2 (Mouse Doubleminute 2 homolog), IAP (Inhibitor of apoptosis proteins), etc. Most of the PROTAC molecules that have entered clinical trials were developed based on CRBN ligands, and only DT2216 was based on VHL ligand. Obviously, the structural optimization of E3 ubiquitin ligase ligands plays an instrumental role in PROTAC technology from bench to bedside. In this review, we review the structure optimization process of E3 ubiquitin ligase ligands currently entering clinical trials on PROTAC molecules, summarize some characteristics of these ligands in terms of druggability, and provide some preliminary insights into their structural optimization. We hope that this review will help medicinal chemists to develop more druggable molecules into clinical studies and to realize the greater therapeutic potential of PROTAC technology.
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Affiliation(s)
- Hanrui Jiang
- Key Laboratory for Green Chemical Process of Ministry of Education, School of Chemical Engineering & Pharmacy, Wuhan Institute of Technology, Wuhan, China,Zhongshan Institute for Drug Discovery, Shanghai Institute of Materia Medica, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Zhongshan, China
| | - Huan Xiong
- Zhongshan Institute for Drug Discovery, Shanghai Institute of Materia Medica, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Zhongshan, China,Department of Medicinal Chemistry, Shanghai Institute of Materia Medica, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Shanghai, China
| | - Shuang-Xi Gu
- Key Laboratory for Green Chemical Process of Ministry of Education, School of Chemical Engineering & Pharmacy, Wuhan Institute of Technology, Wuhan, China,*Correspondence: Shuang-Xi Gu, ; Mingliang Wang,
| | - Mingliang Wang
- Zhongshan Institute for Drug Discovery, Shanghai Institute of Materia Medica, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Zhongshan, China,Department of Medicinal Chemistry, Shanghai Institute of Materia Medica, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Shanghai, China,*Correspondence: Shuang-Xi Gu, ; Mingliang Wang,
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42
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Zhao HY, Xin M, Zhang SQ. Progress of small molecules for targeted protein degradation: PROTACs and other technologies. Drug Dev Res 2023; 84:337-394. [PMID: 36606428 DOI: 10.1002/ddr.22026] [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: 09/11/2022] [Revised: 12/01/2022] [Accepted: 12/17/2022] [Indexed: 01/07/2023]
Abstract
Recent years have witnessed the rapid development of targeted protein degradation (TPD), especially proteolysis targeting chimeras. These degraders have manifested many advantages over small molecule inhibitors. To date, a huge number of degraders have been excavated against over 70 disease-related targets. In particular, degraders against estrogen receptor and androgen receptor have crowded into phase II clinical trial. TPD technologies largely expand the scope of druggable targets, and provide powerful tools for addressing intractable problems that can not be tackled by traditional small molecule inhibitors. In this review, we mainly focus on the structures and biological activities of small molecule degraders as well as the elucidation of mechanisms of emerging TPD technologies. We also propose the challenges that exist in the TPD field at present.
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Affiliation(s)
- Hong-Yi Zhao
- Department of Medicinal Chemistry, School of Pharmacy, Xi'an Jiaotong University Health Science Center, Xi'an, Shaanxi, China
| | - Minhang Xin
- Department of Medicinal Chemistry, School of Pharmacy, Xi'an Jiaotong University Health Science Center, Xi'an, Shaanxi, China
| | - San-Qi Zhang
- Department of Medicinal Chemistry, School of Pharmacy, Xi'an Jiaotong University Health Science Center, Xi'an, Shaanxi, China
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43
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Haid RTU, Reichel A. A Mechanistic Pharmacodynamic Modeling Framework for the Assessment and Optimization of Proteolysis Targeting Chimeras (PROTACs). Pharmaceutics 2023; 15:pharmaceutics15010195. [PMID: 36678824 PMCID: PMC9865105 DOI: 10.3390/pharmaceutics15010195] [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: 11/23/2022] [Revised: 12/19/2022] [Accepted: 12/27/2022] [Indexed: 01/09/2023] Open
Abstract
The field of targeted protein degradation is growing exponentially. Yet, there is an unmet need for pharmacokinetic/pharmacodynamic models that provide mechanistic insights, while also being practically useful in a drug discovery setting. Therefore, we have developed a comprehensive modeling framework which can be applied to experimental data from routine projects to: (1) assess PROTACs based on accurate degradation metrics, (2) guide compound optimization of the most critical parameters, and (3) link degradation to downstream pharmacodynamic effects. The presented framework contains a number of first-time features: (1) a mechanistic model to fit the hook effect in the PROTAC concentration-degradation profile, (2) quantification of the role of target occupancy in the PROTAC mechanism of action and (3) deconvolution of the effects of target degradation and target inhibition by PROTACs on the overall pharmacodynamic response. To illustrate applicability and to build confidence, we have employed these three models to analyze exemplary data on various compounds from different projects and targets. The presented framework allows researchers to tailor their experimental work and to arrive at a better understanding of their results, ultimately leading to more successful PROTAC discovery. While the focus here lies on in vitro pharmacology experiments, key implications for in vivo studies are also discussed.
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Affiliation(s)
- Robin Thomas Ulrich Haid
- DMPK Modeling and Simulation, Drug Metabolism and Pharmacokinetics, Preclinical Development, Bayer AG, Müllerstraße 178, 13353 Berlin, Germany
- Biopharmacy, Institute of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Department of Chemistry and Applied Biosciences, ETH Zurich, Vladimir-Prelog-Weg 4, 8093 Zurich, Switzerland
| | - Andreas Reichel
- DMPK Modeling and Simulation, Drug Metabolism and Pharmacokinetics, Preclinical Development, Bayer AG, Müllerstraße 178, 13353 Berlin, Germany
- Correspondence:
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Ma S, Barr T, Yu J. Recent Advances of RNA m 6A Modifications in Cancer Immunoediting and Immunotherapy. Cancer Treat Res 2023; 190:49-94. [PMID: 38112999 DOI: 10.1007/978-3-031-45654-1_3] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/21/2023]
Abstract
Cancer immunotherapy, which modulates immune responses against tumors using immune-checkpoint inhibitors or adoptive cell transfer, has emerged as a novel and promising therapy for tumors. However, only a minority of patients demonstrate durable responses, while the majority of patients are resistant to immunotherapy. The immune system can paradoxically constrain and promote tumor development and progression. This process is referred to as cancer immunoediting. The mechanisms of resistance to immunotherapy seem to be that cancer cells undergo immunoediting to evade recognition and elimination by the immune system. RNA modifications, specifically N6-methyladenosine (m6A) methylation, have emerged as a key regulator of various post-transcriptional gene regulatory processes, such as RNA export, splicing, stability, and degradation, which play unappreciated roles in various physiological and pathological processes, including immune system development and cancer pathogenesis. Therefore, a deeper understanding of the mechanisms by which RNA modifications impact the cancer immunoediting process can provide insight into the mechanisms of resistance to immunotherapies and the strategies that can be used to overcome such resistance. In this chapter, we briefly introduce the background of cancer immunoediting and immunotherapy. We also review and discuss the roles and mechanisms of RNA m6A modifications in fine-tuning the innate and adaptive immune responses, as well as in regulating tumor escape from immunosurveillance. Finally, we summarize the current strategies targeting m6A regulators for cancer immunotherapy.
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Affiliation(s)
- Shoubao Ma
- Department of Hematology and Hematopoietic Cell Transplantation, City of Hope National Medical Center, Los Angeles, CA, 91010, USA
- Hematologic Malignancies and Stem Cell Transplantation Institute, City of Hope National Medical Center, Los Angeles, CA, 91010, USA
| | - Tasha Barr
- Department of Hematology and Hematopoietic Cell Transplantation, City of Hope National Medical Center, Los Angeles, CA, 91010, USA
- Hematologic Malignancies and Stem Cell Transplantation Institute, City of Hope National Medical Center, Los Angeles, CA, 91010, USA
| | - Jianhua Yu
- Department of Hematology and Hematopoietic Cell Transplantation, City of Hope National Medical Center, Los Angeles, CA, 91010, USA.
- Hematologic Malignancies and Stem Cell Transplantation Institute, City of Hope National Medical Center, Los Angeles, CA, 91010, USA.
- Department of Immuno-Oncology, Beckman Research Institute, City of Hope, Los Angeles, CA, 91010, USA.
- Comprehensive Cancer Center, City of Hope, Los Angeles, CA, 91010, USA.
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Si R, Liu N, Wang J, Zhang Q, Li Y, Pan X, Zhang J. Discovery of selective platelet-derived growth factor receptor-beta (PDGFR-β) bifunctional small-molecule degraders. Bioorg Med Chem 2023; 77:117115. [PMID: 36508995 DOI: 10.1016/j.bmc.2022.117115] [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: 09/24/2022] [Revised: 11/30/2022] [Accepted: 12/01/2022] [Indexed: 12/12/2022]
Abstract
Proteolysis-targeting chimeras (PROTACs) is a promising strategy for treatment of various diseases by degrading of disease-related proteins in recent years. Up to now, most PROTAC molecules are mainly aimed at the degradation of intracellular proteins, but many disease-related proteins are membrane or extracellular proteins. The targeted degradation of membrane proteins would be an attractive and general strategy for discovery of novel PROTACs. Herein, we report the development of multi-targeted kinase inhibitor sorafenib-based PROTACs, they can selectively degrade platelet-derived growth factor receptor beta (PDGFR-β). We provide a method that can be used to degrade cell membrane proteins. To our knowledge, this study also is the first report of PROTAC induced PDGFR-β degradation in cancer cells.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ru Si
- School of Pharmacy, Health Science Center, Xi'an Jiaotong University, Xi'an, 710061, China
| | - Nanxin Liu
- School of Pharmacy, Health Science Center, Xi'an Jiaotong University, Xi'an, 710061, China
| | - Jin Wang
- School of Pharmacy, Health Science Center, Xi'an Jiaotong University, Xi'an, 710061, China
| | - Qingqing Zhang
- School of Pharmacy, Health Science Center, Xi'an Jiaotong University, Xi'an, 710061, China
| | - Yanchen Li
- School of Pharmacy, Health Science Center, Xi'an Jiaotong University, Xi'an, 710061, China
| | - Xiaoyan Pan
- School of Pharmacy, Health Science Center, Xi'an Jiaotong University, Xi'an, 710061, China
| | - Jie Zhang
- School of Pharmacy, Health Science Center, Xi'an Jiaotong University, Xi'an, 710061, China.
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46
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Salama AKAA, Trkulja MV, Casanova E, Uras IZ. Targeted Protein Degradation: Clinical Advances in the Field of Oncology. Int J Mol Sci 2022; 23:15440. [PMID: 36499765 PMCID: PMC9741350 DOI: 10.3390/ijms232315440] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/20/2022] [Revised: 11/23/2022] [Accepted: 12/02/2022] [Indexed: 12/12/2022] Open
Abstract
The field of targeted protein degradation (TPD) is a rapidly developing therapeutic modality with the promise to tame disease-relevant proteins in ways that are difficult or impossible to tackle with other strategies. While we move into the third decade of TPD, multiple degrader drugs have entered the stage of the clinic and many more are expected to follow. In this review, we provide an update on the most recent advances in the field of targeted degradation with insights into possible clinical implications for cancer prevention and treatment.
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Affiliation(s)
| | | | | | - Iris Z. Uras
- Department of Pharmacology, Center of Physiology and Pharmacology & Comprehensive Cancer Center (CCC), Medical University of Vienna, 1090 Vienna, Austria
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47
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Li D, Yu D, Li Y, Yang R. A bibliometric analysis of PROTAC from 2001 to 2021. Eur J Med Chem 2022; 244:114838. [DOI: 10.1016/j.ejmech.2022.114838] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/15/2022] [Revised: 10/04/2022] [Accepted: 10/07/2022] [Indexed: 11/30/2022]
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48
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Wang C, Zhang Y, Zhang T, Shi L, Geng Z, Xing D. Proteolysis-targeting chimaeras (PROTACs) as pharmacological tools and therapeutic agents: advances and future challenges. J Enzyme Inhib Med Chem 2022; 37:1667-1693. [PMID: 35702041 PMCID: PMC9225776 DOI: 10.1080/14756366.2022.2076675] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/17/2022] Open
Abstract
Proteolysis-targeting chimaeras (PROTACs) have been developed to be an emerging technology for targeted protein degradation and attracted the favour of academic institutions, large pharmaceutical enterprises, and biotechnology companies. The mechanism is based on the inhibition of protein function by hijacking a ubiquitin E3 ligase for protein degradation. The heterobifunctional PROTACs contain a ligand for recruiting an E3 ligase, a linker, and another ligand to bind with the protein targeted for degradation. To date, PROTACs targeting ∼70 proteins, many of which are clinically validated drug targets, have been successfully developed with several in clinical trials for diseases therapy. In this review, the recent advances in PROTACs against clinically validated drug targets are summarised and the chemical structure, cellular and in vivo activity, pharmacokinetics, and pharmacodynamics of these PROTACs are highlighted. In addition, the potential advantages, challenges, and prospects of PROTACs technology in disease treatment are discussed.
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Affiliation(s)
- Chao Wang
- The Affiliated Hospital of Qingdao University, Qingdao University, Qingdao Cancer Institute, Qingdao, China
| | - Yujing Zhang
- The Affiliated Cardiovascular Hospital of Qingdao University, Qingdao University, Qingdao, China.,School of Pharmacy, Qingdao University, Qingdao, China
| | - Tingting Zhang
- The Affiliated Hospital of Qingdao University, Qingdao University, Qingdao Cancer Institute, Qingdao, China
| | - Lingyu Shi
- The Affiliated Hospital of Qingdao University, Qingdao University, Qingdao Cancer Institute, Qingdao, China
| | - Zhongmin Geng
- The Affiliated Hospital of Qingdao University, Qingdao University, Qingdao Cancer Institute, Qingdao, China
| | - Dongming Xing
- The Affiliated Hospital of Qingdao University, Qingdao University, Qingdao Cancer Institute, Qingdao, China.,School of Life Sciences, Tsinghua University, Beijing, China
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Negi A, Kesari KK, Voisin-Chiret AS. Estrogen Receptor-α Targeting: PROTACs, SNIPERs, Peptide-PROTACs, Antibody Conjugated PROTACs and SNIPERs. Pharmaceutics 2022; 14:pharmaceutics14112523. [PMID: 36432713 PMCID: PMC9699327 DOI: 10.3390/pharmaceutics14112523] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/20/2022] [Revised: 11/16/2022] [Accepted: 11/17/2022] [Indexed: 11/22/2022] Open
Abstract
Targeting selective estrogen subtype receptors through typical medicinal chemistry approaches is based on occupancy-driven pharmacology. In occupancy-driven pharmacology, molecules are developed in order to inhibit the protein of interest (POI), and their popularity is based on their virtue of faster kinetics. However, such approaches have intrinsic flaws, such as pico-to-nanomolar range binding affinity and continuous dosage after a time interval for sustained inhibition of POI. These shortcomings were addressed by event-driven pharmacology-based approaches, which degrade the POI rather than inhibit it. One such example is PROTACs (Proteolysis targeting chimeras), which has become one of the highly successful strategies of event-driven pharmacology (pharmacology that does the degradation of POI and diminishes its functions). The selective targeting of estrogen receptor subtypes is always challenging for chemical biologists and medicinal chemists. Specifically, estrogen receptor α (ER-α) is expressed in nearly 70% of breast cancer and commonly overexpressed in ovarian, prostate, colon, and endometrial cancer. Therefore, conventional hormonal therapies are most prescribed to patients with ER + cancers. However, on prolonged use, resistance commonly developed against these therapies, which led to selective estrogen receptor degrader (SERD) becoming the first-line drug for metastatic ER + breast cancer. The SERD success shows that removing cellular ER-α is a promising approach to overcoming endocrine resistance. Depending on the mechanism of degradation of ER-α, various types of strategies of developed.
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Affiliation(s)
- Arvind Negi
- Department of Bioproduct and Biosystems, Aalto University, 00076 Espoo, Finland
- Correspondence: or (A.N.); or (K.K.K.); (A.S.V.-C.)
| | - Kavindra Kumar Kesari
- Department of Bioproduct and Biosystems, Aalto University, 00076 Espoo, Finland
- Department of Applied Physics, School of Science, Aalto University, 02150 Espoo, Finland
- Correspondence: or (A.N.); or (K.K.K.); (A.S.V.-C.)
| | - Anne Sophie Voisin-Chiret
- CERMN (Centre d’Etudes et de Recherche sur le Médicament de Normandie), Normandie University UNICAEN, 14000 Caen, France
- Correspondence: or (A.N.); or (K.K.K.); (A.S.V.-C.)
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Ye W, Wu X, Wang X, Wei X, Tang Y, Ouyang X, Gong Y. The proteolysis targeting chimera GMB-475 combined with dasatinib for the treatment of chronic myeloid leukemia with BCR::ABL1 mutants. Front Pharmacol 2022; 13:931772. [PMID: 36263131 PMCID: PMC9574342 DOI: 10.3389/fphar.2022.931772] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/29/2022] [Accepted: 08/23/2022] [Indexed: 11/24/2022] Open
Abstract
Patients with chronic myeloid leukemia (CML) show resistance to tyrosine kinase inhibitors (TKIs) targeting ABL1 due to the emergence of BCR::ABL1 mutants, especially compound mutants during the treatment, which brings great challenges to clinical practice. Combination therapy is an effective strategy for drug resistance. GMB-475, a proteolysis targeting chimera (PROTAC) targeting the myristoyl pocket of ABL1 in an allosteric manner, degrades the BCR::ABL1 through the ubiquitin–proteasome pathway. In this study, we combined GMB-475 with orthosteric TKIs targeting ABL1 to overcome resistance. We constructed Ba/F3 cells carrying BCR::ABL1 mutants by gene cloning technology and compared the effects of combination therapy with those of monotherapy on the biological characteristics and signaling pathways in CML cells. We found that the effects of ABL1 inhibitors, including imatinib, dasatinib, ponatinib, and ABL001, on growth inhibition and promoting apoptosis of Ba/F3 cells with BCR::ABL1 mutants, especially compound mutants, were weakened. GMB-475 combined with TKIs, especially dasatinib, synergistically inhibited growth, promoted apoptosis, and blocked the cell cycle of Ba/F3 cells carrying BCR::ABL1 mutants and synergistically blocked multiple molecules in the JAK-STAT pathway. In conclusion, dasatinib enhanced the antitumor effect of GMB-475; that is, the combination of PROTAC targeting ABL1 in an allosteric manner and orthosteric TKIs, especially dasatinib, provides a novel idea for the treatment of CML patients with BCR::ABL1 mutants in clinical practice.
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