1
|
Cheng SY, Zhang YE. Blocking smoothened cholesterylation: A strategy for overcoming drug resistance in cancer. Cell Chem Biol 2024; 31:1231-1233. [PMID: 39029450 DOI: 10.1016/j.chembiol.2024.06.005] [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: 06/04/2024] [Revised: 06/12/2024] [Accepted: 06/18/2024] [Indexed: 07/21/2024]
Abstract
In this issue of Cell Chemical Biology, Liu et al.1 report the identification of Q29, a synthetic diterpenoid that blocks covalent cholesterol modification of smoothened (SMO) and inhibits hedgehog signaling. Q29 is capable of suppressing tumor cell growth, both in vitro and in vivo, and overcoming resistance to SMO inhibitors.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Steven Y Cheng
- State Key Laboratory of Reproductive Medicine, Department of Medical Genetics, School of Basic Medical Sciences, Nanjing Medical University, Nanjing, Jiangsu 211166, China.
| | - Ying E Zhang
- Laboratory of Cellular & Molecular Biology, Center for Cancer Research, National Cancer Institute, Bethesda, MD 20892, USA.
| |
Collapse
|
2
|
Berrino C, Omar A. Unravelling the Mysteries of the Sonic Hedgehog Pathway in Cancer Stem Cells: Activity, Crosstalk and Regulation. Curr Issues Mol Biol 2024; 46:5397-5419. [PMID: 38920995 PMCID: PMC11202538 DOI: 10.3390/cimb46060323] [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: 05/02/2024] [Revised: 05/24/2024] [Accepted: 05/25/2024] [Indexed: 06/27/2024] Open
Abstract
The Sonic Hedgehog (Shh) signalling pathway plays a critical role in normal development and tissue homeostasis, guiding cell differentiation, proliferation, and survival. Aberrant activation of this pathway, however, has been implicated in the pathogenesis of various cancers, largely due to its role in regulating cancer stem cells (CSCs). CSCs are a subpopulation of cancer cells with the ability to self-renew, differentiate, and initiate tumour growth, contributing significantly to tumorigenesis, recurrence, and resistance to therapy. This review focuses on the intricate activity of the Shh pathway within the context of CSCs, detailing the molecular mechanisms through which Shh signalling influences CSC properties, including self-renewal, differentiation, and survival. It further explores the regulatory crosstalk between the Shh pathway and other signalling pathways in CSCs, highlighting the complexity of this regulatory network. Here, we delve into the upstream regulators and downstream effectors that modulate Shh pathway activity in CSCs. This review aims to cast a specific focus on the role of the Shh pathway in CSCs, provide a detailed exploration of molecular mechanisms and regulatory crosstalk, and discuss current and developing inhibitors. By summarising key findings and insights gained, we wish to emphasise the importance of further elucidating the interplay between the Shh pathway and CSCs to develop more effective cancer therapies.
Collapse
|
3
|
Koukourakis IM, Platoni K, Kouloulias V, Arelaki S, Zygogianni A. Prostate Cancer Stem Cells: Biology and Treatment Implications. Int J Mol Sci 2023; 24:14890. [PMID: 37834336 PMCID: PMC10573523 DOI: 10.3390/ijms241914890] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/06/2023] [Revised: 09/30/2023] [Accepted: 10/01/2023] [Indexed: 10/15/2023] Open
Abstract
Stem cells differentiate into mature organ/tissue-specific cells at a steady pace under normal conditions, but their growth can be accelerated during the process of tissue healing or in the context of certain diseases. It is postulated that the proliferation and growth of carcinomas are sustained by the presence of a vital cellular compartment resembling stem cells residing in normal tissues: 'stem-like cancer cells' or cancer stem cells (CSCs). Mutations in prostate stem cells can lead to the formation of prostate cancer. Prostate CSCs (PCSCs) have been identified and partially characterized. These express surface markers include CD44, CD133, integrin α2β1, and pluripotency factors like OCT4, NANOG, and SOX2. Several signaling pathways are also over-activated, including Notch, PTEN/Akt/PI3K, RAS-RAF-MEK-ERK and HH. Moreover, PCSCs appear to induce resistance to radiotherapy and chemotherapy, while their presence has been linked to aggressive cancer behavior and higher relapse rates. The development of treatment policies to target PCSCs in tumors is appealing as radiotherapy and chemotherapy, through cancer cell killing, trigger tumor repopulation via activated stem cells. Thus, blocking this reactive stem cell mobilization may facilitate a positive outcome through cytotoxic treatment.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Ioannis M. Koukourakis
- Radiation Oncology Unit, 1st Department of Radiology, Aretaieion Hospital, School of Medicine, National and Kapodistrian University of Athens (NKUOA), 11528 Athens, Greece; (I.M.K.); (A.Z.)
| | - Kalliopi Platoni
- Medical Physics Unit, 2nd Department of Radiology, Attikon University Hospital, School of Medicine, National and Kapodistrian University of Athens (NKUOA), 12462 Athens, Greece
| | - Vassilis Kouloulias
- Radiation Oncology Unit, 2nd Department of Radiology, School of Medicine, National and Kapodistrian University of Athens (NKUOA), 12462 Athens, Greece;
| | - Stella Arelaki
- Translational Functional Cancer Genomics, National Center for Tumor Diseases, German Cancer Research Center, 69120 Heidelberg, Germany;
| | - Anna Zygogianni
- Radiation Oncology Unit, 1st Department of Radiology, Aretaieion Hospital, School of Medicine, National and Kapodistrian University of Athens (NKUOA), 11528 Athens, Greece; (I.M.K.); (A.Z.)
| |
Collapse
|
4
|
Maresca L, Crivaro E, Migliorini F, Anichini G, Giammona A, Pepe S, Poggialini F, Vagaggini C, Giannini G, Sestini S, Borgognoni L, Lapucci A, Dreassi E, Taddei M, Manetti F, Petricci E, Stecca B. Targeting GLI1 and GLI2 with small molecule inhibitors to suppress GLI-dependent transcription and tumor growth. Pharmacol Res 2023; 195:106858. [PMID: 37473878 DOI: 10.1016/j.phrs.2023.106858] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/24/2023] [Revised: 07/17/2023] [Accepted: 07/17/2023] [Indexed: 07/22/2023]
Abstract
Aberrant activation of Hedgehog (HH) signaling in cancer is the result of genetic alterations of upstream pathway components (canonical) or other oncogenic mechanisms (noncanonical), that ultimately concur to activate the zinc-finger transcription factors GLI1 and GLI2. Therefore, inhibition of GLI activity is a good therapeutic option to suppress both canonical and noncanonical activation of the HH pathway. However, only a few GLI inhibitors are available, and none of them have the profile required for clinical development due to poor metabolic stability and aqueous solubility, and high hydrophobicity. Two promising quinoline inhibitors of GLI were selected by virtual screening and subjected to hit-to-lead optimization, thus leading to the identification of the 4-methoxy-8-hydroxyquinoline derivative JC19. This molecule impaired GLI1 and GLI2 activities in several cellular models interfering with the binding of GLI1 and GLI2 to DNA. JC19 suppressed cancer cell proliferation by enhancing apoptosis, inducing a strong anti-tumor response in several cancer cell lines in vitro. Specificity towards GLI1 and GLI2 was demonstrated by lower activity of JC19 in GLI1- or GLI2-depleted cancer cells. JC19 showed excellent metabolic stability and high passive permeability. Notably, JC19 inhibited GLI1-dependent melanoma xenograft growth in vivo, with no evidence of toxic effects in mice. These results highlight the potential of JC19 as a novel anti-cancer agent targeting GLI1 and GLI2.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Luisa Maresca
- Core Research Laboratory - Institute for Cancer Research and Prevention (ISPRO), Florence, Italy
| | - Enrica Crivaro
- Core Research Laboratory - Institute for Cancer Research and Prevention (ISPRO), Florence, Italy; Dept. of Biotechnology, Chemistry and Pharmacy, University of Siena, Siena, Italy
| | - Francesca Migliorini
- Dept. of Biotechnology, Chemistry and Pharmacy, University of Siena, Siena, Italy
| | - Giulia Anichini
- Core Research Laboratory - Institute for Cancer Research and Prevention (ISPRO), Florence, Italy
| | - Alessandro Giammona
- Core Research Laboratory - Institute for Cancer Research and Prevention (ISPRO), Florence, Italy
| | - Sara Pepe
- Core Research Laboratory - Institute for Cancer Research and Prevention (ISPRO), Florence, Italy
| | - Federica Poggialini
- Dept. of Biotechnology, Chemistry and Pharmacy, University of Siena, Siena, Italy
| | - Chiara Vagaggini
- Dept. of Biotechnology, Chemistry and Pharmacy, University of Siena, Siena, Italy
| | | | - Serena Sestini
- Plastic and Reconstructive Surgery Unit Regional Melanoma Referral Center and Melanoma & Skin Cancer Unit, Santa Maria Annunziata Hospital, Florence, Italy
| | - Lorenzo Borgognoni
- Plastic and Reconstructive Surgery Unit Regional Melanoma Referral Center and Melanoma & Skin Cancer Unit, Santa Maria Annunziata Hospital, Florence, Italy
| | - Andrea Lapucci
- Department of Health Sciences, University of Florence, Florence, Italy
| | - Elena Dreassi
- Dept. of Biotechnology, Chemistry and Pharmacy, University of Siena, Siena, Italy
| | - Maurizio Taddei
- Dept. of Biotechnology, Chemistry and Pharmacy, University of Siena, Siena, Italy
| | - Fabrizio Manetti
- Dept. of Biotechnology, Chemistry and Pharmacy, University of Siena, Siena, Italy.
| | - Elena Petricci
- Dept. of Biotechnology, Chemistry and Pharmacy, University of Siena, Siena, Italy.
| | - Barbara Stecca
- Core Research Laboratory - Institute for Cancer Research and Prevention (ISPRO), Florence, Italy.
| |
Collapse
|
5
|
Brichkina A, Polo P, Sharma SD, Visestamkul N, Lauth M. A Quick Guide to CAF Subtypes in Pancreatic Cancer. Cancers (Basel) 2023; 15:cancers15092614. [PMID: 37174079 PMCID: PMC10177377 DOI: 10.3390/cancers15092614] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/23/2023] [Revised: 04/21/2023] [Accepted: 04/28/2023] [Indexed: 05/15/2023] Open
Abstract
Pancreatic cancer represents one of the most desmoplastic malignancies and is characterized by an extensive deposition of extracellular matrix. The latter is provided by activated cancer-associated fibroblasts (CAFs), which are abundant cells in the pancreatic tumor microenvironment. Many recent studies have made it clear that CAFs are not a singular cellular entity but represent a multitude of potentially dynamic subgroups that affect tumor biology at several levels. As mentioned before, CAFs significantly contribute to the fibrotic reaction and the biomechanical properties of the tumor, but they can also modulate the local immune environment and the response to targeted, chemo or radiotherapy. As the number of known and emerging CAF subgroups is steadily increasing, it is becoming increasingly difficult to keep up with these developments and to clearly discriminate the cellular subsets identified so far. This review aims to provide a helpful overview that enables readers to quickly familiarize themselves with field of CAF heterogeneity and to grasp the phenotypic, functional and therapeutic distinctions of the various stromal subpopulations.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Anna Brichkina
- Center for Tumor and Immune Biology, Clinics for Gastroenterology, Endocrinology and Metabolism, Philipps University Marburg, Hans-Meerwein-Str. 3, 35043 Marburg, Germany
| | - Pierfrancesco Polo
- Center for Tumor and Immune Biology, Clinics for Gastroenterology, Endocrinology and Metabolism, Philipps University Marburg, Hans-Meerwein-Str. 3, 35043 Marburg, Germany
| | - Shrey Dharamvir Sharma
- Center for Tumor and Immune Biology, Clinics for Gastroenterology, Endocrinology and Metabolism, Philipps University Marburg, Hans-Meerwein-Str. 3, 35043 Marburg, Germany
| | - Nico Visestamkul
- Center for Tumor and Immune Biology, Clinics for Gastroenterology, Endocrinology and Metabolism, Philipps University Marburg, Hans-Meerwein-Str. 3, 35043 Marburg, Germany
| | - Matthias Lauth
- Center for Tumor and Immune Biology, Clinics for Gastroenterology, Endocrinology and Metabolism, Philipps University Marburg, Hans-Meerwein-Str. 3, 35043 Marburg, Germany
| |
Collapse
|
6
|
Emerging Roles of Hedgehog Signaling in Cancer Immunity. Int J Mol Sci 2023; 24:ijms24021321. [PMID: 36674836 PMCID: PMC9864846 DOI: 10.3390/ijms24021321] [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: 11/15/2022] [Revised: 01/04/2023] [Accepted: 01/06/2023] [Indexed: 01/12/2023] Open
Abstract
Hedgehog-GLI (HH) signaling plays an essential role in embryogenesis and tissue homeostasis. Aberrant activation of the pathway through mutations or other mechanisms is involved in the development and progression of numerous types of cancer, including basal cell carcinoma, medulloblastoma, melanoma, breast, prostate, hepatocellular and pancreatic carcinomas. Activation of HH signaling sustains proliferation, suppresses cell death signals, enhances invasion and metastasis, deregulates cellular metabolism and promotes angiogenesis and tumor inflammation. Targeted inhibition of the HH pathway has therefore emerged as an attractive therapeutic strategy for the treatment of a wide range of cancers. Currently, the Smoothened (SMO) receptor and the downstream GLI transcriptional factors have been investigated for the development of targeted drugs. Recent studies have revealed that the HH signaling is also involved in tumor immune evasion and poor responses to cancer immunotherapy. Here we focus on the effects of HH signaling on the major cellular components of the adaptive and innate immune systems, and we present recent discoveries elucidating how the immunosuppressive function of the HH pathway is engaged by cancer cells to prevent immune surveillance. In addition, we discuss the future prospect of therapeutic options combining the HH pathway and immune checkpoint inhibitors.
Collapse
|
7
|
Wang J, Cui B, Li X, Zhao X, Huang T, Ding X. The emerging roles of Hedgehog signaling in tumor immune microenvironment. Front Oncol 2023; 13:1171418. [PMID: 37213270 PMCID: PMC10196179 DOI: 10.3389/fonc.2023.1171418] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/28/2023] [Accepted: 04/26/2023] [Indexed: 05/23/2023] Open
Abstract
The Hedgehog (Hh) signaling pathway is pervasively involved in human malignancies, making it an effective target for cancer treatment for decades. In addition to its direct role in regulating cancer cell attributes, recent work indicates that it has an immunoregulatory effect on tumor microenvironments. An integrated understanding of these actions of Hh signaling pathway in tumor cells and tumor microenvironments will pave the way for novel tumor treatments and further advances in anti-tumor immunotherapy. In this review, we discuss the most recent research about Hh signaling pathway transduction, with a particular emphasis on its role in modulating tumor immune/stroma cell phenotype and function, such as macrophage polarity, T cell response, and fibroblast activation, as well as their mutual interactions between tumor cells and nonneoplastic cells. We also summarize the recent advances in the development of Hh pathway inhibitors and nanoparticle formulation for Hh pathway modulation. We suggest that targeting Hh signaling effects on both tumor cells and tumor immune microenvironments could be more synergistic for cancer treatment.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Juan Wang
- Institute of Geriatrics, Affiliated Nantong Hospital of Shanghai University (The Sixth People’s Hospital of Nantong), School of Medicine, Shanghai University, Nantong, China
- Shanghai Engineering Research Center of Organ Repair, School of Medicine, Shanghai University, Shanghai, China
| | - Baiping Cui
- Institute of Geriatrics, Affiliated Nantong Hospital of Shanghai University (The Sixth People’s Hospital of Nantong), School of Medicine, Shanghai University, Nantong, China
- Shanghai Engineering Research Center of Organ Repair, School of Medicine, Shanghai University, Shanghai, China
| | - Xiaojie Li
- Institute of Geriatrics, Affiliated Nantong Hospital of Shanghai University (The Sixth People’s Hospital of Nantong), School of Medicine, Shanghai University, Nantong, China
- Shanghai Engineering Research Center of Organ Repair, School of Medicine, Shanghai University, Shanghai, China
| | - Xinyue Zhao
- Institute of Geriatrics, Affiliated Nantong Hospital of Shanghai University (The Sixth People’s Hospital of Nantong), School of Medicine, Shanghai University, Nantong, China
- Shanghai Engineering Research Center of Organ Repair, School of Medicine, Shanghai University, Shanghai, China
| | - Taomin Huang
- Department of Pharmacy, Eye & ENT Hospital, Fudan University, Shanghai, China
- *Correspondence: Taomin Huang, ; Xiaolei Ding,
| | - Xiaolei Ding
- Institute of Geriatrics, Affiliated Nantong Hospital of Shanghai University (The Sixth People’s Hospital of Nantong), School of Medicine, Shanghai University, Nantong, China
- Shanghai Engineering Research Center of Organ Repair, School of Medicine, Shanghai University, Shanghai, China
- *Correspondence: Taomin Huang, ; Xiaolei Ding,
| |
Collapse
|
8
|
Feng Z, Zhu S, Li W, Yao M, Song H, Wang RB. Current approaches and strategies to identify Hedgehog signaling pathway inhibitors for cancer therapy. Eur J Med Chem 2022; 244:114867. [DOI: 10.1016/j.ejmech.2022.114867] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/31/2022] [Revised: 10/19/2022] [Accepted: 10/19/2022] [Indexed: 11/30/2022]
|
9
|
Design, synthesis and biological evaluation of novel 4-aminopiperidine derivatives as SMO/ERK dual inhibitors. Bioorg Med Chem 2022; 74:117051. [DOI: 10.1016/j.bmc.2022.117051] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/03/2022] [Revised: 09/22/2022] [Accepted: 10/04/2022] [Indexed: 11/18/2022]
|
10
|
Liu G, Chen T, Zhang X, Ma X, Shi H. Small molecule inhibitors targeting the cancers. MedComm (Beijing) 2022; 3:e181. [PMID: 36254250 PMCID: PMC9560750 DOI: 10.1002/mco2.181] [Citation(s) in RCA: 23] [Impact Index Per Article: 11.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/27/2022] [Revised: 08/23/2022] [Accepted: 08/30/2022] [Indexed: 11/23/2022] Open
Abstract
Compared with traditional therapies, targeted therapy has merits in selectivity, efficacy, and tolerability. Small molecule inhibitors are one of the primary targeted therapies for cancer. Due to their advantages in a wide range of targets, convenient medication, and the ability to penetrate into the central nervous system, many efforts have been devoted to developing more small molecule inhibitors. To date, 88 small molecule inhibitors have been approved by the United States Food and Drug Administration to treat cancers. Despite remarkable progress, small molecule inhibitors in cancer treatment still face many obstacles, such as low response rate, short duration of response, toxicity, biomarkers, and resistance. To better promote the development of small molecule inhibitors targeting cancers, we comprehensively reviewed small molecule inhibitors involved in all the approved agents and pivotal drug candidates in clinical trials arranged by the signaling pathways and the classification of small molecule inhibitors. We discussed lessons learned from the development of these agents, the proper strategies to overcome resistance arising from different mechanisms, and combination therapies concerned with small molecule inhibitors. Through our review, we hoped to provide insights and perspectives for the research and development of small molecule inhibitors in cancer treatment.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Gui‐Hong Liu
- Department of BiotherapyState Key Laboratory of BiotherapyCancer Center, West China HospitalSichuan UniversityChengduChina
| | - Tao Chen
- Department of CardiologyThe First Affiliated Hospital of China Medical UniversityShenyangLiaoningChina
| | - Xin Zhang
- Department of BiotherapyState Key Laboratory of BiotherapyCancer Center, West China HospitalSichuan UniversityChengduChina
| | - Xue‐Lei Ma
- Department of BiotherapyState Key Laboratory of BiotherapyCancer Center, West China HospitalSichuan UniversityChengduChina
| | - Hua‐Shan Shi
- Department of BiotherapyState Key Laboratory of BiotherapyCancer Center, West China HospitalSichuan UniversityChengduChina
| |
Collapse
|
11
|
Koeniger A, Brichkina A, Nee I, Dempwolff L, Hupfer A, Galperin I, Finkernagel F, Nist A, Stiewe T, Adhikary T, Diederich W, Lauth M. Activation of Cilia-Independent Hedgehog/GLI1 Signaling as a Novel Concept for Neuroblastoma Therapy. Cancers (Basel) 2021; 13:cancers13081908. [PMID: 33921042 PMCID: PMC8071409 DOI: 10.3390/cancers13081908] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/12/2021] [Revised: 04/12/2021] [Accepted: 04/13/2021] [Indexed: 11/16/2022] Open
Abstract
Simple Summary Elevated GLI1 expression levels are associated with improved survival in NB patients and GLI1 overexpression exerts tumor-suppressive traits in cultured NB cells. However, NB cells are protected from increased GLI1 levels as they have lost the ability to form primary cilia and transduce Hedgehog signals. This study identifies an isoxazole (ISX) molecule with primary cilia-independent GLI1-activating properties, which blocks NB cell growth. Mechanistically, ISX combines the removal of GLI3 repressor and the inhibition of class I HDACs, providing proof-of-principle evidence that small molecule-mediated activation of GLI1 could be harnessed therapeutically in the future. Abstract Although being rare in absolute numbers, neuroblastoma (NB) represents the most frequent solid tumor in infants and young children. Therapy options and prognosis are comparably good for NB patients except for the high risk stage 4 class. Particularly in adolescent patients with certain genetic alterations, 5-year survival rates can drop below 30%, necessitating the development of novel therapy approaches. The developmentally important Hedgehog (Hh) pathway is involved in neural crest differentiation, the cell type being causal in the etiology of NB. However, and in contrast to its function in some other cancer types, Hedgehog signaling and its transcription factor GLI1 exert tumor-suppressive functions in NB, rendering GLI1 an interesting new candidate for anti-NB therapy. Unfortunately, the therapeutic concept of pharmacological Hh/GLI1 pathway activation is difficult to implement as NB cells have lost primary cilia, essential organelles for Hh perception and activation. In order to bypass this bottleneck, we have identified a GLI1-activating small molecule which stimulates endogenous GLI1 production without the need for upstream Hh pathway elements such as Smoothened or primary cilia. This isoxazole compound potently abrogates NB cell proliferation and might serve as a starting point for the development of a novel class of NB-suppressive molecules.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Anke Koeniger
- Center for Tumor- and Immune Biology, Department of Gastroenterology, Philipps University Marburg, 35043 Marburg, Germany; (A.K.); (A.B.); (A.H.); (I.G.)
| | - Anna Brichkina
- Center for Tumor- and Immune Biology, Department of Gastroenterology, Philipps University Marburg, 35043 Marburg, Germany; (A.K.); (A.B.); (A.H.); (I.G.)
| | - Iris Nee
- Department of Medicinal Chemistry and Center for Tumor- and Immune Biology, Philipps University Marburg, 35043 Marburg, Germany; (I.N.); (L.D.); (W.D.)
| | - Lukas Dempwolff
- Department of Medicinal Chemistry and Center for Tumor- and Immune Biology, Philipps University Marburg, 35043 Marburg, Germany; (I.N.); (L.D.); (W.D.)
| | - Anna Hupfer
- Center for Tumor- and Immune Biology, Department of Gastroenterology, Philipps University Marburg, 35043 Marburg, Germany; (A.K.); (A.B.); (A.H.); (I.G.)
| | - Ilya Galperin
- Center for Tumor- and Immune Biology, Department of Gastroenterology, Philipps University Marburg, 35043 Marburg, Germany; (A.K.); (A.B.); (A.H.); (I.G.)
| | - Florian Finkernagel
- Center for Tumor- and Immune Biology, Bioinformatics Core Facility, Philipps University Marburg, 35043 Marburg, Germany;
| | - Andrea Nist
- Member of the German Center for Lung Research (DZL), Center for Tumor- and Immune Biology, Genomics Core Facility, Institute of Molecular Oncology, Philipps University Marburg, 35043 Marburg, Germany; (A.N.); (T.S.)
| | - Thorsten Stiewe
- Member of the German Center for Lung Research (DZL), Center for Tumor- and Immune Biology, Genomics Core Facility, Institute of Molecular Oncology, Philipps University Marburg, 35043 Marburg, Germany; (A.N.); (T.S.)
| | - Till Adhikary
- Institute for Biomedical Informatics and Biostatistics, Philipps University Marburg, 35043 Marburg, Germany;
| | - Wibke Diederich
- Department of Medicinal Chemistry and Center for Tumor- and Immune Biology, Philipps University Marburg, 35043 Marburg, Germany; (I.N.); (L.D.); (W.D.)
- Core Facility Medicinal Chemistry, Philipps University Marburg, 35043 Marburg, Germany
| | - Matthias Lauth
- Center for Tumor- and Immune Biology, Department of Gastroenterology, Philipps University Marburg, 35043 Marburg, Germany; (A.K.); (A.B.); (A.H.); (I.G.)
- Correspondence:
| |
Collapse
|
12
|
Hupfer A, Brichkina A, Adhikary T, Lauth M. The mammalian Hedgehog pathway is modulated by ANP32 proteins. Biochem Biophys Res Commun 2021; 553:78-84. [PMID: 33761414 DOI: 10.1016/j.bbrc.2021.03.027] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/24/2021] [Accepted: 03/05/2021] [Indexed: 12/29/2022]
Abstract
Medulloblastoma (MB) is the most common malignant brain tumor in children. Transcriptional profiling has so far delineated four major MB subgroups of which one is driven by uncontrolled Hedgehog (Hh) signaling (SHH-MB). This pathway is amenable to drug targeting, yet clinically approved compounds exclusively target the transmembrane component Smoothened (SMO). Unfortunately, drug resistance against SMO inhibitors is encountered frequently, making the identification of novel Hh pathway components mandatory, which could serve as novel drug targets in the future. Here, we have used MB as a tool to delineate novel modulators of Hh signaling and have identified the Acidic Nuclear Phosphoprotein 32 (ANP32) family of proteins as novel regulators. The expression of all three family members (ANP32A, ANP32B, ANP32E) is increased in Hh-induced MB and their expression level is negatively associated with overall survival in SHH-MB patients. Mechanistically, we could find that ANP32 proteins function as positive modulators of mammalian Hh signaling upstream of GLI transcription factors. These findings add hitherto unknown regulators to the mammalian Hh signaling cascade and might spur future translational efforts to combat Hh-driven malignancies.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Anna Hupfer
- Philipps University Marburg, Center for Tumor- and Immune Biology (ZTI), Clinics of Gastroenterology, Endocrinology, Metabolism and Infectiology, Germany
| | - Anna Brichkina
- Philipps University Marburg, Center for Tumor- and Immune Biology (ZTI), Clinics of Gastroenterology, Endocrinology, Metabolism and Infectiology, Germany
| | - Till Adhikary
- Philipps University Marburg, Center for Tumor Biology and Immunology (ZTI), Institute of Medical Bioinformatics and Biostatistics, Institute of Molecular Biology and Tumor Research, Germany
| | - Matthias Lauth
- Philipps University Marburg, Center for Tumor- and Immune Biology (ZTI), Clinics of Gastroenterology, Endocrinology, Metabolism and Infectiology, Germany.
| |
Collapse
|
13
|
Sun C, Zhang D, Luan T, Wang Y, Zhang W, Lin L, Jiang M, Hao Z, Wang Y. Synthesis of 2-methoxybenzamide derivatives and evaluation of their hedgehog signaling pathway inhibition. RSC Adv 2021; 11:22820-22825. [PMID: 35480433 PMCID: PMC9034380 DOI: 10.1039/d1ra00732g] [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: 01/27/2021] [Accepted: 06/22/2021] [Indexed: 11/21/2022] Open
Abstract
Aberrant hedgehog (Hh) signaling is implicated in the development of a variety of cancers. Smoothened (Smo) protein is a bottleneck in the Hh signal transduction. The regulation of the Hh signaling pathway to target the Smo receptor is a practical approach for development of anticancer agents. We report herein the design and synthesis of a series of 2-methoxybenzamide derivatives as Hh signaling pathway inhibitors. The pharmacological data demonstrated that compound 21 possessed potent Hh pathway inhibition with a nanomolar IC50 value, and it prevented Shh-induced Smo from entering the primary cilium. Furthermore, mutant Smo was effectively suppressed via compound 21. The in vitro antiproliferative activity of compound 21 against a drug-resistant cell line gave encouraging results. Benzamide analog (21) was identified as a potent hedgehog signaling pathway inhibitor that targeted the Smo receptor and blocked Daoy cell proliferation.![]()
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Chiyu Sun
- School of Pharmacy
- Shenyang Medical College
- Shenyang 110034
- China
| | - Dajun Zhang
- School of Pharmacy
- Shenyang Medical College
- Shenyang 110034
- China
| | - Tian Luan
- School of Pharmacy
- Shenyang Medical College
- Shenyang 110034
- China
| | - Youbing Wang
- School of Pharmacy
- Shenyang Medical College
- Shenyang 110034
- China
| | - Wenhu Zhang
- School of Pharmacy
- Shenyang Medical College
- Shenyang 110034
- China
| | - Lin Lin
- School of Pharmacy
- Shenyang Medical College
- Shenyang 110034
- China
| | - Meihua Jiang
- School of Pharmacy
- Shenyang Medical College
- Shenyang 110034
- China
| | - Ziqian Hao
- School of Pharmacy
- Shenyang Medical College
- Shenyang 110034
- China
| | - Ying Wang
- School of Pharmacy
- Shenyang Medical College
- Shenyang 110034
- China
| |
Collapse
|
14
|
Sun C, Zhang Y, Wang H, Yin Z, Wu L, Huang Y, Zhang W, Wang Y, Hu Q. Design and biological evaluation of phenyl imidazole analogs as hedgehog signaling pathway inhibitors. Chem Biol Drug Des 2020; 97:546-552. [PMID: 32946174 DOI: 10.1111/cbdd.13799] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/30/2020] [Revised: 08/27/2020] [Accepted: 09/09/2020] [Indexed: 11/30/2022]
Abstract
The hedgehog (Hh) signaling pathway is involved in diverse aspects of cellular events. Aberrant activation of Hh signaling pathway drives oncogenic transformation for a wide range of cancers, and it is therefore a promising target in cancer therapy. In the principle of association and ring-opening, we designed and synthesized a series of Hh signaling pathway inhibitors with phenyl imidazole scaffold, which were biologically evaluated in Gli-Luc reporter assay. Compound 25 was identified to possess high potency with nanomolar IC50 , and moreover, it preserved the inhibition against wild-type and drug-resistant Smo-overexpressing cells. A molecular modeling study of compound 25 expounded its binding mode to Smo receptor, providing a basis for the further structural modification of phenyl imidazole analogs.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Chiyu Sun
- School of Pharmacy, Shenyang Medical College, Shenyang, China
| | - Ying Zhang
- School of Chemical Engineering, Shenyang University of Chemical Technology, Shenyang, China
| | - Han Wang
- School of Pharmacy, Shenyang Medical College, Shenyang, China
| | - Zhengxu Yin
- School of Pharmacy, Shenyang Medical College, Shenyang, China
| | - Lingqiong Wu
- School of Pharmacy, Shenyang Medical College, Shenyang, China
| | - Yanmiao Huang
- School of Pharmacy, Shenyang Medical College, Shenyang, China
| | - Wenhu Zhang
- School of Pharmacy, Shenyang Medical College, Shenyang, China
| | - Youbing Wang
- School of Pharmacy, Shenyang Medical College, Shenyang, China
| | - Qibo Hu
- School of Pharmacy, Shenyang Medical College, Shenyang, China
| |
Collapse
|
15
|
The Role of Smoothened in Cancer. Int J Mol Sci 2020; 21:ijms21186863. [PMID: 32962123 PMCID: PMC7555769 DOI: 10.3390/ijms21186863] [Citation(s) in RCA: 31] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/30/2020] [Revised: 09/13/2020] [Accepted: 09/15/2020] [Indexed: 02/06/2023] Open
Abstract
Smoothened (SMO) belongs to the Hedgehog (HH) signaling pathway, which regulates cell growth, migration, invasion and stem cells in cancer. The HH signaling pathway includes both canonical and noncanonical pathways. The canonical HH pathway functions through major HH molecules such as HH ligands, PTCH, SMO and GLI, whereas the noncanonical HH pathway involves the activation of SMO or GLI through other pathways. The role of SMO has been discussed in different types of cancer, including breast, liver, pancreatic and colon cancers. SMO expression correlates with tumor size, invasiveness, metastasis and recurrence. In addition, SMO inhibitors can suppress cancer formation, reduce the proliferation of cancer cells, trigger apoptosis and suppress cancer stem cell activity. A better understanding of the role of SMO in cancer could contribute to the development of novel therapeutic approaches.
Collapse
|
16
|
Pitsinos EN, Mavridis I, Tzouma E, Vidali VP. Enantioselective Synthesis of Cassane-Type Furanoditerpenoids: Total Synthesis of Sucutiniranes C and D. European J Org Chem 2020. [DOI: 10.1002/ejoc.202000724] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/12/2022]
Affiliation(s)
- Emmanuel N. Pitsinos
- Institute of Nanoscience and Nanotechnology; National Centre of Scientific Research “Demokritos”; P.O. Box 60037 15310 Agia Paraskevi Attikis Greece
| | - Ioannis Mavridis
- Institute of Nanoscience and Nanotechnology; National Centre of Scientific Research “Demokritos”; P.O. Box 60037 15310 Agia Paraskevi Attikis Greece
| | - Eirini Tzouma
- Institute of Nanoscience and Nanotechnology; National Centre of Scientific Research “Demokritos”; P.O. Box 60037 15310 Agia Paraskevi Attikis Greece
| | - Veroniki P. Vidali
- Institute of Nanoscience and Nanotechnology; National Centre of Scientific Research “Demokritos”; P.O. Box 60037 15310 Agia Paraskevi Attikis Greece
| |
Collapse
|
17
|
Tran U, Zhang GC, Eom R, Billingsley KL, Ondrus AE. Small Molecule Intervention in a Protein Kinase C-Gli Transcription Factor Axis. ACS Chem Biol 2020; 15:1321-1327. [PMID: 32479053 DOI: 10.1021/acschembio.0c00355] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/18/2022]
Abstract
Aberrations in the Hedgehog (Hh) signaling pathway are responsible for a broad range of human cancers, yet only a subset rely on the activity of the clinical target, Smoothened (Smo). Emerging cases of cancers that are insensitive to Smo-targeting drugs demand new therapeutic targets and agents for inhibition. As such, we sought to pursue a recently discovered connection between the Hedgehog pathway transcription factors, the glioma-associated oncogene homologues (Glis), and protein kinase C (PKC) isozymes. Here, we report our assessment of a structurally diverse library of PKC effectors for their influence on Gli function. Using cell lines that employ distinct mechanisms of Gli activation up- and downstream of Smo, we identify a PKC effector that acts as a nanomolar Gli antagonist downstream of Smo through a mitogen-activated protein kinase kinase (MEK)-independent mechanism. This agent provides a unique tool to illuminate crosstalk between PKC isozymes and Hh signaling and new opportunities for therapeutic intervention in Hh pathway-dependent cancers.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- UyenPhuong Tran
- Department of Chemistry and Biochemistry, California State University Fullerton, 800 N State College Blvd, Fullerton, California 92831, United States
| | - Grace C. Zhang
- Division of Chemistry and Chemical Engineering, California Institute of Technology, 1200 E California Blvd, Pasadena, California 91125, United States
| | - Ryan Eom
- Department of Chemistry and Chemical Biology, Cornell University, 259 East Ave, Ithaca, New York 14853, United States
| | - Kelvin L. Billingsley
- Department of Chemistry and Biochemistry, California State University Fullerton, 800 N State College Blvd, Fullerton, California 92831, United States
| | - Alison E. Ondrus
- Division of Chemistry and Chemical Engineering, California Institute of Technology, 1200 E California Blvd, Pasadena, California 91125, United States
| |
Collapse
|
18
|
Yun T, Wang J, Yang J, Huang W, Lai L, Tan W, Liu Y. Discovery of Small Molecule Inhibitors Targeting the Sonic Hedgehog. Front Chem 2020; 8:498. [PMID: 32612978 PMCID: PMC7309560 DOI: 10.3389/fchem.2020.00498] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/12/2019] [Accepted: 05/14/2020] [Indexed: 01/03/2023] Open
Abstract
The aberrant activation of hedgehog (Hh) signaling pathway is closely related to human diseases. The upstream protein, N-terminal product of sonic hedgehog (ShhN) is overexpressed in many cancers and considered as a promising antitumor target. Inhibitors that bind to ShhN and break its interaction with the 12-transmembrane glycoprotein patched (Ptch) protein are highly wanted to tune down the abnormal Hh pathway activation. However, research of ShhN inhibitors remains lacking. In this paper, we computationally screened potential inhibitors against the ShhN-Ptch interaction interface, and tested their activities by experimental studies. Seven compounds (1-7) with diverse scaffolds, showed inhibition in cellular assays and directly bound to ShhN in vitro. The compounds were verified to modulate the Hh pathway activity. Furthermore, we studied the structure-activity relationship of the pyrimidine (7) derivatives and identified a potent compound (7_3d3) with IC50 of 0.4 ± 0.1 μM in cellular assays. These small molecule inhibitors of ShhN provide novel chemical probes for future investigations of Hh signaling.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Taikangxiang Yun
- Center for Quantitative Biology, Academy for Advanced Interdisciplinary Studies, College of Chemistry and Molecular Engineering, Beijing National Laboratory for Molecular Sciences (BNLMS), Peking University, Beijing, China
| | - Juan Wang
- Department of Pharmacology, School of Pharmacy, Fudan University, Shanghai, China
| | - Jun Yang
- Department of Pharmacology, School of Pharmacy, Fudan University, Shanghai, China
| | - Wenjing Huang
- Department of Pharmacology, School of Pharmacy, Fudan University, Shanghai, China
| | - Luhua Lai
- Center for Quantitative Biology, Academy for Advanced Interdisciplinary Studies, College of Chemistry and Molecular Engineering, Beijing National Laboratory for Molecular Sciences (BNLMS), Peking University, Beijing, China
| | - Wenfu Tan
- Department of Pharmacology, School of Pharmacy, Fudan University, Shanghai, China
| | - Ying Liu
- Center for Quantitative Biology, Academy for Advanced Interdisciplinary Studies, College of Chemistry and Molecular Engineering, Beijing National Laboratory for Molecular Sciences (BNLMS), Peking University, Beijing, China
| |
Collapse
|
19
|
Johansson HK, Svingen T. Hedgehog signal disruption, gonadal dysgenesis and reproductive disorders: Is there a link to endocrine disrupting chemicals? Curr Res Toxicol 2020; 1:116-123. [PMID: 34345840 PMCID: PMC8320607 DOI: 10.1016/j.crtox.2020.10.001] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/27/2020] [Revised: 10/05/2020] [Accepted: 10/06/2020] [Indexed: 01/04/2023] Open
Abstract
Developmental exposure to chemicals that can disrupt sex hormone signaling may cause a broad spectrum of reproductive disorders. This is because reproductive development is tightly regulated by steroid sex hormones. Consequently, non-animal screening methods currently used to test chemicals for potential endocrine disrupting activities typically include steroidogenesis and nuclear receptor assays. In many cases there is a correlation between in vitro and in vivo data examining endocrine disruption, for example between blocked androgen receptor activity and feminized male genitals. However, there are many examples where there is poor, or no, correlation between in vitro data and in vivo effect outcomes in rodent studies, for various reasons. One possible, and less studied, reason for discordance between in vitro and in vivo data is that the mechanisms causing the in vivo effects are not covered by those typically tested for in vitro. This knowledge gap must be addressed if we are to elaborate robust testing strategies that do not rely on animal experimentation. In this review, we highlight the Hedgehog (HH) signaling pathway as a target for environmental chemicals and its potential implications for reproductive disorders originating from early life exposure. A central proposition is that, by disrupting HH signal transduction during critical stages of mammalian development, the endocrine cells of the testes or ovaries fail to develop normally, which ultimately will lead to disrupted sex hormone synthesis and sexual development in both sexes. If this is the case, then such mechanism must also be included in future test strategies aimed at eliminating chemicals that may cause reproductive disorders in humans.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Hanna K.L. Johansson
- Division of Diet, Disease Prevention and Toxicology, National Food Institute, Technical University of Denmark, Kgs. Lyngby, DK-2800, Denmark
| | - Terje Svingen
- Division of Diet, Disease Prevention and Toxicology, National Food Institute, Technical University of Denmark, Kgs. Lyngby, DK-2800, Denmark
| |
Collapse
|
20
|
Ji D, Zhang W, Xu Y, Zhang JJ. Design, synthesis and biological evaluation of anthranilamide derivatives as potent SMO inhibitors. Bioorg Med Chem 2020; 28:115354. [DOI: 10.1016/j.bmc.2020.115354] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/09/2019] [Revised: 01/17/2020] [Accepted: 01/31/2020] [Indexed: 01/20/2023]
|
21
|
Xiao WF, Li YS, Deng A, Yang YT, He M. Functional role of hedgehog pathway in osteoarthritis. Cell Biochem Funct 2019; 38:122-129. [PMID: 31833076 DOI: 10.1002/cbf.3448] [Citation(s) in RCA: 12] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/15/2019] [Revised: 08/29/2019] [Accepted: 10/13/2019] [Indexed: 12/23/2022]
Abstract
The hedgehog signalling pathway is one of the key regulators of metazoan development, and it plays an important role in the regulation of a variety of developmental and physiological processes. But it is aberrantly activated in many human diseases, including osteoarthritis (OA). In this study, we have reviewed the association of hedgehog signalling pathway in the development and progression of OA and evaluated the efforts to target this pathway for the prevention of OA. Usually in OA, activation of hedgehog induces up-regulation of the expression of hypertrophic markers, including type X collagen, increases production of nitric oxide and prostaglandin E2, several matrix-degrading enzymes including matrix metalloproteinase and a disintegrin and metalloproteinase with thrombospondin motifs in human knee joint cartilage leading to cartilage degeneration, and thus contributes in OA. Targeting hedgehog signalling might be a viable strategy to prevent or treat OA. Chemical inhibitors of hedgehog signalling is promising, but they cause severe side effects. Knockdown of HH gene is not an option for OA treatment in humans because it is not possible to delete HH in larger animals. Efficient knockdown of HH achieved by local delivery of small interfering RNA in future studies utilizing large animal OA models might be a more efficient approach for the prevention of OA. However, it remains a major problem to develop one single scaffold due to the different physiological functions of cartilage and subchondral bones possess. More studies are necessary to identify selective inhibitors for efficiently targeting the hedgehog pathway in clinical conditions.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Wen-Feng Xiao
- Department of Orthopaedics, Xiangya Hospital of Central South University, Changsha, Hunan, China.,National Clinical Research Center for Geriatric Disorders, Xiangya Hospital of Central South University, Changsha, Hunan, China
| | - Yu-Sheng Li
- Department of Orthopaedics, Xiangya Hospital of Central South University, Changsha, Hunan, China.,National Clinical Research Center for Geriatric Disorders, Xiangya Hospital of Central South University, Changsha, Hunan, China
| | - Ang Deng
- Department of Spine Surgery, Xiangya Hospital of Central South University, Changsha, Hunan, China.,National Clinical Research Center for Geriatric Disorders, Xiangya Hospital of Central South University, Changsha, Hunan, China
| | - Yun-Tao Yang
- Department of Orthopaedics, Xiangya Hospital of Central South University, Changsha, Hunan, China
| | - Miao He
- Department of Orthopaedics, Xiangya Hospital of Central South University, Changsha, Hunan, China
| |
Collapse
|