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Yang Y, Mou Y, Wan LX, Zhu S, Wang G, Gao H, Liu B. Rethinking therapeutic strategies of dual-target drugs: An update on pharmacological small-molecule compounds in cancer. Med Res Rev 2024; 44:2600-2623. [PMID: 38769656 DOI: 10.1002/med.22057] [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: 02/15/2022] [Revised: 06/06/2023] [Accepted: 05/09/2024] [Indexed: 05/22/2024]
Abstract
Oncogenes and tumor suppressors are well-known to orchestrate several signaling cascades, regulate extracellular and intracellular stimuli, and ultimately control the fate of cancer cells. Accumulating evidence has recently revealed that perturbation of these key modulators by mutations or abnormal protein expressions are closely associated with drug resistance in cancer therapy; however, the inherent drug resistance or compensatory mechanism remains to be clarified for targeted drug discovery. Thus, dual-target drug development has been widely reported to be a promising therapeutic strategy for improving drug efficiency or overcoming resistance mechanisms. In this review, we provide an overview of the therapeutic strategies of dual-target drugs, especially focusing on pharmacological small-molecule compounds in cancer, including small molecules targeting mutation resistance, compensatory mechanisms, synthetic lethality, synergistic effects, and other new emerging strategies. Together, these therapeutic strategies of dual-target drugs would shed light on discovering more novel candidate small-molecule drugs for the future cancer treatment.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yiren Yang
- Department of Biotherapy, Cancer Center and State Key Laboratory of Biotherapy, and Department of Gastroenterology and Hepatology, West China Hospital, Sichuan University/West China School of Nursing, Sichuan University, Chengdu, China
- Key Laboratory of Structure-Based Drug Design & Discovery of Ministry of Education, School of Traditional Chinese Materia Medica, Shenyang Pharmaceutical University, Shenyang, China
| | - Yi Mou
- Department of Biotherapy, Cancer Center and State Key Laboratory of Biotherapy, and Department of Gastroenterology and Hepatology, West China Hospital, Sichuan University/West China School of Nursing, Sichuan University, Chengdu, China
| | - Lin-Xi Wan
- Key Laboratory of Drug-Targeting and Drug Delivery System of the Education Ministry and Sichuan Province, Sichuan Engineering Laboratory for Plant-Sourced Drug and Sichuan Research Center for Drug Precision Industrial Technology, West China School of Pharmacy, Sichuan University, Chengdu, China
| | - Shiou Zhu
- Department of Biotherapy, Cancer Center and State Key Laboratory of Biotherapy, and Department of Gastroenterology and Hepatology, West China Hospital, Sichuan University/West China School of Nursing, Sichuan University, Chengdu, China
| | - Guan Wang
- Department of Biotherapy, Cancer Center and State Key Laboratory of Biotherapy, and Department of Gastroenterology and Hepatology, West China Hospital, Sichuan University/West China School of Nursing, Sichuan University, Chengdu, China
| | - Huiyuan Gao
- Key Laboratory of Structure-Based Drug Design & Discovery of Ministry of Education, School of Traditional Chinese Materia Medica, Shenyang Pharmaceutical University, Shenyang, China
| | - Bo Liu
- Department of Biotherapy, Cancer Center and State Key Laboratory of Biotherapy, and Department of Gastroenterology and Hepatology, West China Hospital, Sichuan University/West China School of Nursing, Sichuan University, Chengdu, China
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2
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Wu Y, Wang A, Feng G, Pan X, Shuai W, Yang P, Zhang J, Ouyang L, Luo Y, Wang G. Autophagy modulation in cancer therapy: Challenges coexist with opportunities. Eur J Med Chem 2024; 276:116688. [PMID: 39033611 DOI: 10.1016/j.ejmech.2024.116688] [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: 05/30/2024] [Revised: 07/08/2024] [Accepted: 07/15/2024] [Indexed: 07/23/2024]
Abstract
Autophagy, a crucial intracellular degradation process facilitated by lysosomes, plays a pivotal role in maintaining cellular homeostasis. The elucidation of autophagy key genes and signaling pathways has significantly advanced our understanding of this process and has led to the exploration of autophagy as a promising therapeutic approach. This review comprehensively assesses the latest developments in small molecule modulators targeting autophagy. Moreover, the review delves into the most recent strategies for drug discovery, specifically focusing on selective agents that exploit autophagosomes and lysosomes for targeted protein degradation. Additionally, this article highlights the prevailing challenges and outlines potential future advancements in the field. By amalgamating the cutting-edge knowledge in the field, we aim to offer valuable insights and references for the anti-cancer drug development of autophagy-targeted therapies, thus contributing to the advancement of novel therapeutic interventions.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yongya Wu
- Department of Biotherapy, Cancer Center and State Key Laboratory of Biotherapy, Innovation Center of Nursing Research, Nursing Key Laboratory of Sichuan Province, Department of Orthopedics, Orthopedic Research Institute, West China Hospital, West China School of Nursing, Sichuan University, Chengdu, 610041, China
| | - Aoxue Wang
- Department of Biotherapy, Cancer Center and State Key Laboratory of Biotherapy, Innovation Center of Nursing Research, Nursing Key Laboratory of Sichuan Province, Department of Orthopedics, Orthopedic Research Institute, West China Hospital, West China School of Nursing, Sichuan University, Chengdu, 610041, China
| | - Guotai Feng
- Department of Biotherapy, Cancer Center and State Key Laboratory of Biotherapy, Innovation Center of Nursing Research, Nursing Key Laboratory of Sichuan Province, Department of Orthopedics, Orthopedic Research Institute, West China Hospital, West China School of Nursing, Sichuan University, Chengdu, 610041, China
| | - Xiaoli Pan
- Department of Biotherapy, Cancer Center and State Key Laboratory of Biotherapy, Innovation Center of Nursing Research, Nursing Key Laboratory of Sichuan Province, Department of Orthopedics, Orthopedic Research Institute, West China Hospital, West China School of Nursing, Sichuan University, Chengdu, 610041, China
| | - Wen Shuai
- Department of Biotherapy, Cancer Center and State Key Laboratory of Biotherapy, Innovation Center of Nursing Research, Nursing Key Laboratory of Sichuan Province, Department of Orthopedics, Orthopedic Research Institute, West China Hospital, West China School of Nursing, Sichuan University, Chengdu, 610041, China
| | - Panpan Yang
- Department of Biotherapy, Cancer Center and State Key Laboratory of Biotherapy, Innovation Center of Nursing Research, Nursing Key Laboratory of Sichuan Province, Department of Orthopedics, Orthopedic Research Institute, West China Hospital, West China School of Nursing, Sichuan University, Chengdu, 610041, China
| | - Jing Zhang
- Department of Biotherapy, Cancer Center and State Key Laboratory of Biotherapy, Innovation Center of Nursing Research, Nursing Key Laboratory of Sichuan Province, Department of Orthopedics, Orthopedic Research Institute, West China Hospital, West China School of Nursing, Sichuan University, Chengdu, 610041, China
| | - Liang Ouyang
- Department of Biotherapy, Cancer Center and State Key Laboratory of Biotherapy, Innovation Center of Nursing Research, Nursing Key Laboratory of Sichuan Province, Department of Orthopedics, Orthopedic Research Institute, West China Hospital, West China School of Nursing, Sichuan University, Chengdu, 610041, China
| | - Yi Luo
- Department of Biotherapy, Cancer Center and State Key Laboratory of Biotherapy, Innovation Center of Nursing Research, Nursing Key Laboratory of Sichuan Province, Department of Orthopedics, Orthopedic Research Institute, West China Hospital, West China School of Nursing, Sichuan University, Chengdu, 610041, China.
| | - Guan Wang
- Department of Biotherapy, Cancer Center and State Key Laboratory of Biotherapy, Innovation Center of Nursing Research, Nursing Key Laboratory of Sichuan Province, Department of Orthopedics, Orthopedic Research Institute, West China Hospital, West China School of Nursing, Sichuan University, Chengdu, 610041, China.
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3
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Nussinov R, Yavuz BR, Jang H. Anticancer drugs: How to select small molecule combinations? Trends Pharmacol Sci 2024; 45:503-519. [PMID: 38782689 PMCID: PMC11162304 DOI: 10.1016/j.tips.2024.04.012] [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: 03/20/2024] [Revised: 04/26/2024] [Accepted: 04/29/2024] [Indexed: 05/25/2024]
Abstract
Small molecules are at the forefront of anticancer therapies. Successive treatments with single molecules incur drug resistance, calling for combination. Here, we explore the tough choices oncologists face - not just which drugs to use but also the best treatment plans, based on factors such as target proteins, pathways, and gene expression. We consider the reality of cancer's disruption of normal cellular processes, highlighting why it's crucial to understand the ins and outs of current treatment methods. The discussion on using combination drug therapies to target multiple pathways sheds light on a promising approach while also acknowledging the hurdles that come with it, such as dealing with pathway crosstalk. We review options and provide examples and the mechanistic basis, altogether providing the first comprehensive guide to combinatorial therapy selection.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ruth Nussinov
- Computational Structural Biology Section, Frederick National Laboratory for Cancer Research, Frederick, MD 21702, USA; Cancer Innovation Laboratory, National Cancer Institute at Frederick, Frederick, MD 21702, USA; Department of Human Molecular Genetics and Biochemistry, Sackler School of Medicine, Tel Aviv University, Tel Aviv 69978, Israel.
| | - Bengi Ruken Yavuz
- Cancer Innovation Laboratory, National Cancer Institute at Frederick, Frederick, MD 21702, USA
| | - Hyunbum Jang
- Computational Structural Biology Section, Frederick National Laboratory for Cancer Research, Frederick, MD 21702, USA; Cancer Innovation Laboratory, National Cancer Institute at Frederick, Frederick, MD 21702, USA
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4
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Yang J, Wu Y, Lv X, Liu L, Li J, Du G, Liu Y. Engineering Redox Cofactor Balance for Improved 5-Methyltetrahydrofolate Production in Escherichia coli. JOURNAL OF AGRICULTURAL AND FOOD CHEMISTRY 2024; 72:9974-9983. [PMID: 38625685 DOI: 10.1021/acs.jafc.4c00821] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 04/17/2024]
Abstract
5-Methyltetrahydrofolate (5-MTHF) is the sole active form of folate functioning in the human body and is widely used as a nutraceutical. Unlike the pollution from chemical synthesis, microbial synthesis enables green production of 5-MTHF. In this study, Escherichia coli BL21 (DE3) was selected as the host. Initially, by deleting 6-phosphofructokinase 1 and overexpressing glucose-6-phosphate 1-dehydrogenase and 6-phosphogluconate dehydrogenase, the glycolysis pathway flux decreased, while the pentose phosphate pathway flux enhanced. The ratios of NADH/NAD+ and NADPH/NADP+ increased, indicating elevated NAD(P)H supply. This led to more folate being reduced and the successful accumulation of 5-MTHF to 44.57 μg/L. Subsequently, formate dehydrogenases from Candida boidinii and Candida dubliniensis were expressed, which were capable of catalyzing the reaction of sodium formate oxidation for NAD(P)H regeneration. This further increased the NAD(P)H supply, leading to a rise in 5-MTHF production to 247.36 μg/L. Moreover, to maintain the balance between NADH and NADPH, pntAB and sthA, encoding transhydrogenase, were overexpressed. Finally, by overexpressing six key enzymes in the folate to 5-MTHF pathway and employing fed-batch cultivation in a 3 L fermenter, strain Z13 attained a peak 5-MTHF titer of 3009.03 μg/L, the highest level reported in E. coli so far. This research is a significant step toward industrial-scale microbial 5-MTHF production.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jinning Yang
- Key Laboratory of Carbohydrate Chemistry and Biotechnology, Ministry of Education, School of Biotechnology, Jiangnan University, Wuxi 214122, China
- Science Center for Future Foods, Jiangnan University, Wuxi 214122, China
- Engineering Research Center of Ministry of Education on Food Synthetic Biotechnology, Jiangnan University, Wuxi 214122, China
- Jiangsu Province Engineering Research Center of Food Synthetic Biotechnology, Jiangnan University, Wuxi 214122, China
| | - Yaokang Wu
- Key Laboratory of Carbohydrate Chemistry and Biotechnology, Ministry of Education, School of Biotechnology, Jiangnan University, Wuxi 214122, China
- Science Center for Future Foods, Jiangnan University, Wuxi 214122, China
- Engineering Research Center of Ministry of Education on Food Synthetic Biotechnology, Jiangnan University, Wuxi 214122, China
- Jiangsu Province Engineering Research Center of Food Synthetic Biotechnology, Jiangnan University, Wuxi 214122, China
| | - Xueqin Lv
- Key Laboratory of Carbohydrate Chemistry and Biotechnology, Ministry of Education, School of Biotechnology, Jiangnan University, Wuxi 214122, China
- Science Center for Future Foods, Jiangnan University, Wuxi 214122, China
- Engineering Research Center of Ministry of Education on Food Synthetic Biotechnology, Jiangnan University, Wuxi 214122, China
- Jiangsu Province Engineering Research Center of Food Synthetic Biotechnology, Jiangnan University, Wuxi 214122, China
| | - Long Liu
- Key Laboratory of Carbohydrate Chemistry and Biotechnology, Ministry of Education, School of Biotechnology, Jiangnan University, Wuxi 214122, China
- Science Center for Future Foods, Jiangnan University, Wuxi 214122, China
- Engineering Research Center of Ministry of Education on Food Synthetic Biotechnology, Jiangnan University, Wuxi 214122, China
- Jiangsu Province Engineering Research Center of Food Synthetic Biotechnology, Jiangnan University, Wuxi 214122, China
| | - Jianghua Li
- Key Laboratory of Carbohydrate Chemistry and Biotechnology, Ministry of Education, School of Biotechnology, Jiangnan University, Wuxi 214122, China
- Science Center for Future Foods, Jiangnan University, Wuxi 214122, China
- Engineering Research Center of Ministry of Education on Food Synthetic Biotechnology, Jiangnan University, Wuxi 214122, China
- Jiangsu Province Engineering Research Center of Food Synthetic Biotechnology, Jiangnan University, Wuxi 214122, China
| | - Guocheng Du
- Key Laboratory of Carbohydrate Chemistry and Biotechnology, Ministry of Education, School of Biotechnology, Jiangnan University, Wuxi 214122, China
- Science Center for Future Foods, Jiangnan University, Wuxi 214122, China
- Engineering Research Center of Ministry of Education on Food Synthetic Biotechnology, Jiangnan University, Wuxi 214122, China
- Jiangsu Province Engineering Research Center of Food Synthetic Biotechnology, Jiangnan University, Wuxi 214122, China
| | - Yanfeng Liu
- Key Laboratory of Carbohydrate Chemistry and Biotechnology, Ministry of Education, School of Biotechnology, Jiangnan University, Wuxi 214122, China
- Science Center for Future Foods, Jiangnan University, Wuxi 214122, China
- Engineering Research Center of Ministry of Education on Food Synthetic Biotechnology, Jiangnan University, Wuxi 214122, China
- Jiangsu Province Engineering Research Center of Food Synthetic Biotechnology, Jiangnan University, Wuxi 214122, China
- Qingdao Special Food Research Institute, Qingdao 266109, China
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5
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Shuai W, Xiao H, Yang P, Zhang Y, Bu F, Wu Y, Sun Q, Wang G, Ouyang L. Structure-Guided Discovery and Preclinical Assessment of Novel (Thiophen-3-yl)aminopyrimidine Derivatives as Potent ERK1/2 Inhibitors. J Med Chem 2024; 67:6425-6455. [PMID: 38613499 DOI: 10.1021/acs.jmedchem.3c02392] [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: 04/15/2024]
Abstract
The RAS-RAF-MEK-ERK signaling cascade is abnormally activated in various tumors, playing a crucial role in mediating tumor progression. As the key component at the terminal stage of this cascade, ERK1/2 emerges as a potential antitumor target and offers a promising therapeutic strategy for tumors harboring BRAF or RAS mutations. Here, we identified 36c with a (thiophen-3-yl)aminopyrimidine scaffold as a potent ERK1/2 inhibitor through structure-guided optimization for hit 18. In preclinical studies, 36c showed powerful ERK1/2 inhibitory activities (ERK1/2 IC50 = 0.11/0.08 nM) and potent antitumor efficacy both in vitro and in vivo against triple-negative breast cancer and colorectal cancer models harboring BRAF and RAS mutations. 36c could directly inhibit ERK1/2, significantly block the phosphorylation expression of their downstream substrates p90RSK and c-Myc, and induce cell apoptosis and incomplete autophagy-related cell death. Taken together, this work provides a promising ERK1/2 lead compound for multiple tumor-treatment drug discovery.
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Affiliation(s)
- Wen Shuai
- Department of Biotherapy, Cancer Center and State Key Laboratory of Biotherapy, Innovation Center of Nursing Research, Nursing Key Laboratory of Sichuan Province, West China Hospital, Sichuan University/West China School of Nursing, Sichuan University, Chengdu 610041, China
| | - Huan Xiao
- Department of Biotherapy, Cancer Center and State Key Laboratory of Biotherapy, Innovation Center of Nursing Research, Nursing Key Laboratory of Sichuan Province, West China Hospital, Sichuan University/West China School of Nursing, Sichuan University, Chengdu 610041, China
| | - Panpan Yang
- Department of Biotherapy, Cancer Center and State Key Laboratory of Biotherapy, Innovation Center of Nursing Research, Nursing Key Laboratory of Sichuan Province, West China Hospital, Sichuan University/West China School of Nursing, Sichuan University, Chengdu 610041, China
| | - Yiwen Zhang
- Department of Biotherapy, Cancer Center and State Key Laboratory of Biotherapy, Innovation Center of Nursing Research, Nursing Key Laboratory of Sichuan Province, West China Hospital, Sichuan University/West China School of Nursing, Sichuan University, Chengdu 610041, China
| | - Faqian Bu
- Department of Biotherapy, Cancer Center and State Key Laboratory of Biotherapy, Innovation Center of Nursing Research, Nursing Key Laboratory of Sichuan Province, West China Hospital, Sichuan University/West China School of Nursing, Sichuan University, Chengdu 610041, China
| | - Yongya Wu
- Department of Biotherapy, Cancer Center and State Key Laboratory of Biotherapy, Innovation Center of Nursing Research, Nursing Key Laboratory of Sichuan Province, West China Hospital, Sichuan University/West China School of Nursing, Sichuan University, Chengdu 610041, China
| | - Qiu Sun
- Department of Biotherapy, Cancer Center and State Key Laboratory of Biotherapy, Innovation Center of Nursing Research, Nursing Key Laboratory of Sichuan Province, West China Hospital, Sichuan University/West China School of Nursing, Sichuan University, Chengdu 610041, China
| | - Guan Wang
- Department of Biotherapy, Cancer Center and State Key Laboratory of Biotherapy, Innovation Center of Nursing Research, Nursing Key Laboratory of Sichuan Province, West China Hospital, Sichuan University/West China School of Nursing, Sichuan University, Chengdu 610041, China
| | - Liang Ouyang
- Department of Biotherapy, Cancer Center and State Key Laboratory of Biotherapy, Innovation Center of Nursing Research, Nursing Key Laboratory of Sichuan Province, West China Hospital, Sichuan University/West China School of Nursing, Sichuan University, Chengdu 610041, China
- Frontiers Medical Center, Tianfu Jincheng Laboratory, Chengdu 610212, Sichuan, China
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Zhang Q, Gao X, Duan X, Liang H, Gao M, Dong D, Guo C, Huang L. Design, synthesis and SAR of novel 7-azaindole derivatives as potential Erk5 kinase inhibitor with anticancer activity. Bioorg Med Chem 2023; 95:117503. [PMID: 37862935 DOI: 10.1016/j.bmc.2023.117503] [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: 08/01/2023] [Revised: 09/30/2023] [Accepted: 10/13/2023] [Indexed: 10/22/2023]
Abstract
The extracellular signal-regulated kinase 5 (Erk5) signaling plays a crucial role in cancer, and regulating its activity may have potential in cancer chemotherapy. In this study, a series of novel 7-azaindole derivatives (4a-5o) were designed and synthesized. Their antitumor activities on human lung cancer A549 cells was evaluated by 3-(4,5-dimethylthiazol-2-yl)-2,5-diphenyltetrazolium bromide (MTT) assay, 4',6-diamidino-2-phenylindole (DAPI) staining and colony formation assay. Among them, compounds 4a, 4 h, 5d and 5j exhibited good anti-proliferative activity with the IC50 values of 6.23 µg/mL, 8.52 µg/mL, 7.33 µg/mL and 4.56 µg/mL, respectively, equivalent to Erk5 positive control XMD8-92 (IC50 = 5.36 µg/mL). The results of structure-activity relationships (SAR) showed that double bond on the piperidine ring and N atoms at the N7 position of 7-azaindole was essential for their antiproliferative activity. Furthermore, compounds 4a and 5j exhibited good inhibition on Erk5 kinase through Western blot analysis and possible action site of compounds with Erk5 kinase was elucidated by molecular docking.
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Affiliation(s)
- Qin Zhang
- State Key Laboratory Base for Eco-Chemical Engineering, College of Chemical Engineering, Qingdao University of Science and Technology, 266042 Qingdao, Shandong, China
| | - Xintao Gao
- State Key Laboratory Base for Eco-Chemical Engineering, College of Chemical Engineering, Qingdao University of Science and Technology, 266042 Qingdao, Shandong, China
| | - Xiyu Duan
- State Key Laboratory Base for Eco-Chemical Engineering, College of Chemical Engineering, Qingdao University of Science and Technology, 266042 Qingdao, Shandong, China
| | - Han Liang
- State Key Laboratory Base for Eco-Chemical Engineering, College of Chemical Engineering, Qingdao University of Science and Technology, 266042 Qingdao, Shandong, China
| | - Mingyuan Gao
- State Key Laboratory Base for Eco-Chemical Engineering, College of Chemical Engineering, Qingdao University of Science and Technology, 266042 Qingdao, Shandong, China
| | - Dianquan Dong
- State Key Laboratory Base for Eco-Chemical Engineering, College of Chemical Engineering, Qingdao University of Science and Technology, 266042 Qingdao, Shandong, China
| | - Chuanlong Guo
- State Key Laboratory Base for Eco-Chemical Engineering, College of Chemical Engineering, Qingdao University of Science and Technology, 266042 Qingdao, Shandong, China.
| | - Longjiang Huang
- State Key Laboratory Base for Eco-Chemical Engineering, College of Chemical Engineering, Qingdao University of Science and Technology, 266042 Qingdao, Shandong, China; State Key Laboratory of Bioactive Substance and Function of Natural Medicines, Institute of Materia Medica Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences and Peking Union Medical College, 100050 Beijing, China.
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7
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Huang Y, Zhen Y, Chen Y, Sui S, Zhang L. Unraveling the interplay between RAS/RAF/MEK/ERK signaling pathway and autophagy in cancer: From molecular mechanisms to targeted therapy. Biochem Pharmacol 2023; 217:115842. [PMID: 37802240 DOI: 10.1016/j.bcp.2023.115842] [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: 07/24/2023] [Revised: 09/28/2023] [Accepted: 10/02/2023] [Indexed: 10/08/2023]
Abstract
RAS/RAF/MEK/ERK signaling pathway is one of the most important pathways of Mitogen-activated protein kinases (MAPK), which widely participate in regulating cell proliferation, differentiation, apoptosis and signaling transduction. Autophagy is an essential mechanism that maintains cellular homeostasis by degrading aged and damaged organelles. Recently, some studies revealed RAS/RAF/MEK/ERK signaling pathway is closely related to autophagy regulation and has a dual effect in tumor cells. However, the specific mechanism by which RAS/RAF/MEK/ERK signaling pathway participates in autophagy regulation is not fully understood. This article provides a comprehensive review of the research progress with regard to the RAS/RAF/MEK/ERK signaling pathway and autophagy, as well as their interplay in cancer therapy. The impact of small molecule inhibitors that target the RAS/RAF/MEK/ERK signaling pathway on autophagy is discussed in this study. The advantages and limitations of the clinical combination of these small molecule inhibitors with autophagy inhibitors are also explored. The findings from this study may provide additional perspectives for future cancer treatment strategies.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yunli Huang
- Sichuan Engineering Research Center for Biomimetic Synthesis of Natural Drugs, School of Life Science and Engineering, Southwest Jiaotong University, Chengdu 610031, China
| | - Yongqi Zhen
- Department of Biotherapy, Cancer Center and State Key Laboratory of Biotherapy, West China Hospital, Sichuan University, Chengdu 610041, China
| | - Yanmei Chen
- Department of Biotherapy, Cancer Center and State Key Laboratory of Biotherapy, West China Hospital, Sichuan University, Chengdu 610041, China
| | - Shaoguang Sui
- Emergency Department, The Second Hospital, Dalian Medical University, Dalian 116000, China.
| | - Lan Zhang
- Sichuan Engineering Research Center for Biomimetic Synthesis of Natural Drugs, School of Life Science and Engineering, Southwest Jiaotong University, Chengdu 610031, China.
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8
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Hwang J, Moon H, Kim H, Kim KY. Identification of a Novel ERK5 (MAPK7) Inhibitor, MHJ-627, and Verification of Its Potent Anticancer Efficacy in Cervical Cancer HeLa Cells. Curr Issues Mol Biol 2023; 45:6154-6169. [PMID: 37504304 PMCID: PMC10377775 DOI: 10.3390/cimb45070388] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/29/2023] [Revised: 07/19/2023] [Accepted: 07/21/2023] [Indexed: 07/29/2023] Open
Abstract
Extracellular signal-regulated kinase 5 (ERK5), a member of the mitogen-activated protein kinase (MAPK) family, is involved in key cellular processes. However, overexpression and upregulation of ERK5 have been reported in various cancers, and ERK5 is associated with almost every biological characteristic of cancer cells. Accordingly, ERK5 has become a novel target for the development of anticancer drugs as inhibition of ERK5 shows suppressive effects of the deleterious properties of cancer cells. Herein, we report the synthesis and identification of a novel ERK5 inhibitor, MHJ-627, and verify its potent anticancer efficacy in a yeast model and the cervical cancer HeLa cell line. MHJ-627 successfully inhibited the kinase activity of ERK5 (IC50: 0.91 μM) and promoted the mRNA expression of tumor suppressors and anti-metastatic genes. Moreover, we observed significant cancer cell death, accompanied by a reduction in mRNA levels of the cell proliferation marker, proliferating cell nuclear antigen (PCNA), following ERK5 inhibition due to MHJ-627 treatment. We expect this finding to serve as a lead compound for further identification of inhibitors for ERK5-directed novel approaches for oncotherapy with increased specificity.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jeonghye Hwang
- Department of Genetics and Biotechnology, Kyung Hee University, Yongin 17104, Republic of Korea
| | - Hyejin Moon
- Department of Applied Chemistry, Global Center for Pharmaceutical Ingredient Materials, Kyung Hee University, Yongin 17104, Republic of Korea
| | - Hakwon Kim
- Department of Applied Chemistry, Global Center for Pharmaceutical Ingredient Materials, Kyung Hee University, Yongin 17104, Republic of Korea
| | - Ki-Young Kim
- Department of Genetics and Biotechnology, Kyung Hee University, Yongin 17104, Republic of Korea
- Graduate School of Biotechnology, Kyung Hee University, Yongin 17104, Republic of Korea
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9
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Liu C, Ye D, Yang H, Chen X, Su Z, Li X, Ding M, Liu Y. RAS-targeted cancer therapy: Advances in drugging specific mutations. MedComm (Beijing) 2023; 4:e285. [PMID: 37250144 PMCID: PMC10225044 DOI: 10.1002/mco2.285] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/26/2022] [Revised: 04/06/2023] [Accepted: 04/18/2023] [Indexed: 05/31/2023] Open
Abstract
Rat sarcoma (RAS), as a frequently mutated oncogene, has been studied as an attractive target for treating RAS-driven cancers for over four decades. However, it is until the recent success of kirsten-RAS (KRAS)G12C inhibitor that RAS gets rid of the title "undruggable". It is worth noting that the therapeutic effect of KRASG12C inhibitors on different RAS allelic mutations or even different cancers with KRASG12C varies significantly. Thus, deep understanding of the characteristics of each allelic RAS mutation will be a prerequisite for developing new RAS inhibitors. In this review, the structural and biochemical features of different RAS mutations are summarized and compared. Besides, the pathological characteristics and treatment responses of different cancers carrying RAS mutations are listed based on clinical reports. In addition, the development of RAS inhibitors, either direct or indirect, that target the downstream components in RAS pathway is summarized as well. Hopefully, this review will broaden our knowledge on RAS-targeting strategies and trigger more intensive studies on exploiting new RAS allele-specific inhibitors.
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Affiliation(s)
- Cen Liu
- Beijing University of Chinese MedicineBeijingChina
| | - Danyang Ye
- Beijing University of Chinese MedicineBeijingChina
| | - Hongliu Yang
- Beijing University of Chinese MedicineBeijingChina
| | - Xu Chen
- Beijing University of Chinese MedicineBeijingChina
| | - Zhijun Su
- Beijing University of Chinese MedicineBeijingChina
| | - Xia Li
- Institute of Genetics and Developmental BiologyChinese Academy of SciencesBeijingChina
| | - Mei Ding
- Institute of Genetics and Developmental BiologyChinese Academy of SciencesBeijingChina
| | - Yonggang Liu
- Beijing University of Chinese MedicineBeijingChina
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10
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Miller D, Harnor SJ, Martin MP, Noble RA, Wedge SR, Cano C. Modulation of ERK5 Activity as a Therapeutic Anti-Cancer Strategy. J Med Chem 2023; 66:4491-4502. [PMID: 37002872 PMCID: PMC10108346 DOI: 10.1021/acs.jmedchem.3c00072] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/13/2023] [Indexed: 04/03/2023]
Abstract
The extracellular signal-regulated kinase 5 (ERK5) signaling pathway is one of four conventional mitogen-activated protein (MAP) kinase pathways. Genetic perturbation of ERK5 has suggested that modulation of ERK5 activity may have therapeutic potential in cancer chemotherapy. This Miniperspective examines the evidence for ERK5 as a drug target in cancer, the structure of ERK5, and the evolution of structurally distinct chemotypes of ERK5 kinase domain inhibitors. The emerging complexities of ERK5 pharmacology are discussed, including the confounding phenomenon of paradoxical ERK5 activation by small-molecule ERK5 inhibitors. The impact of the recent development and biological evaluation of potent and selective bifunctional degraders of ERK5 and future opportunities in ERK modulation are also explored.
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Affiliation(s)
- Duncan
C. Miller
- Cancer
Research Horizons Therapeutic Innovation, Newcastle Drug Discovery
Group, Newcastle University Centre for Cancer, School of Natural and
Environmental Sciences, Newcastle University, Bedson Building, Newcastle upon Tyne NE1 7RU, United Kingdom
| | - Suzannah J. Harnor
- Cancer
Research Horizons Therapeutic Innovation, Newcastle Drug Discovery
Group, Newcastle University Centre for Cancer, School of Natural and
Environmental Sciences, Newcastle University, Bedson Building, Newcastle upon Tyne NE1 7RU, United Kingdom
| | - Mathew P. Martin
- Cancer
Research Horizons Therapeutic Innovation, Newcastle Drug Discovery
Group, Translational and Clinical Research
Institute, Paul O’Gorman Building, Medical School, Framlington Place, Newcastle upon Tyne NE2 4HH, United Kingdom
| | - Richard A. Noble
- Cancer
Research Horizons Therapeutic Innovation, Newcastle Drug Discovery
Group, Translational and Clinical Research
Institute, Paul O’Gorman Building, Medical School, Framlington Place, Newcastle upon Tyne NE2 4HH, United Kingdom
| | - Stephen R. Wedge
- Cancer
Research Horizons Therapeutic Innovation, Newcastle Drug Discovery
Group, Translational and Clinical Research
Institute, Paul O’Gorman Building, Medical School, Framlington Place, Newcastle upon Tyne NE2 4HH, United Kingdom
| | - Celine Cano
- Cancer
Research Horizons Therapeutic Innovation, Newcastle Drug Discovery
Group, Newcastle University Centre for Cancer, School of Natural and
Environmental Sciences, Newcastle University, Bedson Building, Newcastle upon Tyne NE1 7RU, United Kingdom
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11
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Ye J, Wu J, Liu B. Therapeutic strategies of dual-target small molecules to overcome drug resistance in cancer therapy. Biochim Biophys Acta Rev Cancer 2023; 1878:188866. [PMID: 36842765 DOI: 10.1016/j.bbcan.2023.188866] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/05/2022] [Revised: 01/12/2023] [Accepted: 01/31/2023] [Indexed: 02/28/2023]
Abstract
Despite some advances in targeted therapeutics of human cancers, curative cancer treatment still remains a tremendous challenge due to the occurrence of drug resistance. A variety of underlying resistance mechanisms to targeted cancer drugs have recently revealed that the dual-target therapeutic strategy would be an attractive avenue. Compared to drug combination strategies, one agent simultaneously modulating two druggable targets generally shows fewer adverse reactions and lower toxicity. As a consequence, the dual-target small molecule has been extensively explored to overcome drug resistance in cancer therapy. Thus, in this review, we focus on summarizing drug resistance mechanisms of cancer cells, such as enhanced drug efflux, deregulated cell death, DNA damage repair, and epigenetic alterations. Based upon the resistance mechanisms, we further discuss the current therapeutic strategies of dual-target small molecules to overcome drug resistance, which will shed new light on exploiting more intricate mechanisms and relevant dual-target drugs for future cancer therapeutics.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jing Ye
- State Key Laboratory of Biotherapy and Cancer Center and Department of Otolaryngology, Head and Neck Surgery, West China Hospital, Sichuan University, Chengdu 610041, China
| | - Junhao Wu
- State Key Laboratory of Biotherapy and Cancer Center and Department of Otolaryngology, Head and Neck Surgery, West China Hospital, Sichuan University, Chengdu 610041, China
| | - Bo Liu
- State Key Laboratory of Biotherapy and Cancer Center and Department of Otolaryngology, Head and Neck Surgery, West China Hospital, Sichuan University, Chengdu 610041, China.
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12
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Li H, Zhang SL, Jia YH, Li Q, Feng ZW, Zhang SD, Zheng W, Zhou YL, Li LL, Liu XC, Chen YQ, Peng H, You QD, Xu XL. Imidazo[1,2- a]Pyridine Derivatives as Novel Dual-Target Inhibitors of ABCB1 and ABCG2 for Reversing Multidrug Resistance. J Med Chem 2023; 66:2804-2831. [PMID: 36780419 DOI: 10.1021/acs.jmedchem.2c01862] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 02/15/2023]
Abstract
ABCB1 and ABCG2 are the important ATP-binding cassette (ABC) transporters associated with multidrug resistance (MDR). Herein, we designed a series of imidazo[1,2-a]pyridine derivatives as dual-target inhibitors of ABCB1 and ABCG2 through the scaffold hopping strategy. Compound Y22 displayed potential efflux function inhibitory toward both ABCB1 and ABCG2 (reversal fold: ABCB1 = 8.35 and ABCG2 = 2.71) without obvious cytotoxicity. Y22 also enhanced the potency of antiproliferative drugs in vitro. Mechanistic studies demonstrated that Y22 slightly suppressed ATPase activity but did not affect the protein expression of ABCB1 or ABCG2. Notably, Y22 exhibited negligible CYP3A4 inhibition and enhanced the antiproliferative activity of adriamycin in vivo by restoring the sensitivity of resistant cells. Thus, Y22 may be effective clinically in combination with common chemotherapy agents. In summary, Y22 is a potential dual-target inhibitor that reverses MDR by blocking the efflux function of ABCB1 and ABCG2.
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Affiliation(s)
- Hui Li
- State Key Laboratory of Natural Medicines, and Jiang Su Key Laboratory of Drug Design and Optimization, China Pharmaceutical University, Nanjing 210009, China
- Department of Medicinal Chemistry, School of Pharmacy, China Pharmaceutical University, Nanjing 210009, China
| | - Sheng-Lie Zhang
- State Key Laboratory of Natural Medicines, and Jiang Su Key Laboratory of Drug Design and Optimization, China Pharmaceutical University, Nanjing 210009, China
- Department of Medicinal Chemistry, School of Pharmacy, China Pharmaceutical University, Nanjing 210009, China
| | - Yan-Han Jia
- Department of Operational Medicine, Tianjin Institute of Environmental & Operational Medicine, Tianjin 300050, China
| | - Qian Li
- State Key Laboratory of Natural Medicines, and Jiang Su Key Laboratory of Drug Design and Optimization, China Pharmaceutical University, Nanjing 210009, China
- Department of Medicinal Chemistry, School of Pharmacy, China Pharmaceutical University, Nanjing 210009, China
| | - Zi-Wen Feng
- State Key Laboratory of Natural Medicines, and Jiang Su Key Laboratory of Drug Design and Optimization, China Pharmaceutical University, Nanjing 210009, China
- Department of Medicinal Chemistry, School of Pharmacy, China Pharmaceutical University, Nanjing 210009, China
| | - Shi-Duo Zhang
- State Key Laboratory of Natural Medicines, and Jiang Su Key Laboratory of Drug Design and Optimization, China Pharmaceutical University, Nanjing 210009, China
- Department of Medicinal Chemistry, School of Pharmacy, China Pharmaceutical University, Nanjing 210009, China
| | - Wei Zheng
- State Key Laboratory of Natural Medicines, and Jiang Su Key Laboratory of Drug Design and Optimization, China Pharmaceutical University, Nanjing 210009, China
- Department of Medicinal Chemistry, School of Pharmacy, China Pharmaceutical University, Nanjing 210009, China
| | - Ye-Ling Zhou
- State Key Laboratory of Natural Medicines, and Jiang Su Key Laboratory of Drug Design and Optimization, China Pharmaceutical University, Nanjing 210009, China
- Department of Medicinal Chemistry, School of Pharmacy, China Pharmaceutical University, Nanjing 210009, China
| | - Lin-Lin Li
- State Key Laboratory of Natural Medicines, and Jiang Su Key Laboratory of Drug Design and Optimization, China Pharmaceutical University, Nanjing 210009, China
- Department of Medicinal Chemistry, School of Pharmacy, China Pharmaceutical University, Nanjing 210009, China
| | - Xue-Chun Liu
- State Key Laboratory of Natural Medicines, and Jiang Su Key Laboratory of Drug Design and Optimization, China Pharmaceutical University, Nanjing 210009, China
- Department of Medicinal Chemistry, School of Pharmacy, China Pharmaceutical University, Nanjing 210009, China
| | - Ya-Qiong Chen
- Department of Operational Medicine, Tianjin Institute of Environmental & Operational Medicine, Tianjin 300050, China
| | - Hui Peng
- Department of Operational Medicine, Tianjin Institute of Environmental & Operational Medicine, Tianjin 300050, China
| | - Qi-Dong You
- State Key Laboratory of Natural Medicines, and Jiang Su Key Laboratory of Drug Design and Optimization, China Pharmaceutical University, Nanjing 210009, China
- Department of Medicinal Chemistry, School of Pharmacy, China Pharmaceutical University, Nanjing 210009, China
| | - Xiao-Li Xu
- State Key Laboratory of Natural Medicines, and Jiang Su Key Laboratory of Drug Design and Optimization, China Pharmaceutical University, Nanjing 210009, China
- Department of Medicinal Chemistry, School of Pharmacy, China Pharmaceutical University, Nanjing 210009, China
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13
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Fu L, Chen S, He G, Chen Y, Liu B. Targeting Extracellular Signal-Regulated Protein Kinase 1/2 (ERK1/2) in Cancer: An Update on Pharmacological Small-Molecule Inhibitors. J Med Chem 2022; 65:13561-13573. [PMID: 36205714 DOI: 10.1021/acs.jmedchem.2c01244] [Citation(s) in RCA: 17] [Impact Index Per Article: 8.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/28/2022]
Abstract
Extracellular signal-regulated protein kinase 1/2 (ERK1/2), the only known substrate of MEK1/2, is located downstream of the RAS-RAF-MEK-ERK (MAPK) pathway and is associated with the abnormal activation and poor prognosis of cancer. To date, several small-molecule inhibitors of RAS, RAF, and MEK have been reported to make rapid advances in cancer therapy; however, acquired resistance still occurs, thereby weakening the therapeutic efficacy of these inhibitors. Recently, selective inhibition of ERK1/2 has been regarded as a potential cancer therapeutic strategy that can not only effectively block the MAPK pathway but also overcome drug resistance caused by upstream mutations in RAS, RAF, and MEK. Herein, we summarize the oncogenic roles, key signaling network, and the single- and dual-target inhibitors of ERK1/2 in preclinical and clinical trials. Together, these inspiring findings shed new light on the discovery of more small-molecule inhibitors of ERK1/2 as candidate drugs to improve cancer therapeutics.
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Affiliation(s)
- Leilei Fu
- Sichuan Engineering Research Center for Biomimetic Synthesis of Natural Drugs, School of Life Science and Engineering, Southwest Jiaotong University, Chengdu 610031, China
| | - Siwei Chen
- Sichuan Engineering Research Center for Biomimetic Synthesis of Natural Drugs, School of Life Science and Engineering, Southwest Jiaotong University, Chengdu 610031, China
| | - Gu He
- Department of Gastrointestinal Surgery, State Key Laboratory of Biotherapy and Cancer Center, West China Hospital, Sichuan University, Chengdu 610041, China
| | - Yi Chen
- Department of Gastrointestinal Surgery, State Key Laboratory of Biotherapy and Cancer Center, West China Hospital, Sichuan University, Chengdu 610041, China
| | - Bo Liu
- Department of Gastrointestinal Surgery, State Key Laboratory of Biotherapy and Cancer Center, West China Hospital, Sichuan University, Chengdu 610041, China
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14
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Banerjee S, Lee S, Norman DD, Tigyi GJ. Designing Dual Inhibitors of Autotaxin-LPAR GPCR Axis. Molecules 2022; 27:5487. [PMID: 36080255 PMCID: PMC9458164 DOI: 10.3390/molecules27175487] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/26/2022] [Revised: 08/24/2022] [Accepted: 08/25/2022] [Indexed: 11/18/2022] Open
Abstract
The ATX-LPA-LPAR1 signaling pathway plays a universal role in stimulating diverse cellular responses, including cell proliferation, migration, survival, and invasion in almost every cell type. The ATX-LPAR1 axis is linked to several metabolic and inflammatory diseases including cancer, fibrosis, and rheumatoid arthritis. Numerous selective ATX or LPAR1 inhibitors have been developed and so far, their clinical efficacy has only been evaluated in idiopathic pulmonary fibrosis. None of the ATX and LPAR1 inhibitors have advanced to clinical trials for cancer and rheumatoid arthritis. Nonetheless, several research groups, including ours, have shown considerable benefit of simultaneous ATX and LPAR1 inhibition through combination therapy. Recent research suggests that dual-targeting therapies are superior to combination therapies that use two selective inhibitors. However, limited reports are available on ATX-LPAR1 dual inhibitors, potentially due to co-expression of multiple different LPARs with close structural similarities at the same target. In this review, we discuss rational design and future directions of dual ATX-LPAR1 inhibitors.
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Affiliation(s)
- Souvik Banerjee
- Department of Chemistry, Middle Tennessee State University, 1301 E. Main Street, Murfreesboro, TN 37132, USA
- Molecular Biosciences Program, Middle Tennessee State University, 1301 E. Main Street, Murfreesboro, TN 37132, USA
| | - Suechin Lee
- Department of Physiology, University of Tennessee Health Science Center Memphis, 3 N. Dunlap Street, Memphis, TN 38163, USA
| | - Derek D. Norman
- Department of Physiology, University of Tennessee Health Science Center Memphis, 3 N. Dunlap Street, Memphis, TN 38163, USA
| | - Gabor J. Tigyi
- Department of Physiology, University of Tennessee Health Science Center Memphis, 3 N. Dunlap Street, Memphis, TN 38163, USA
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15
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Cook SJ, Lochhead PA. ERK5 Signalling and Resistance to ERK1/2 Pathway Therapeutics: The Path Less Travelled? Front Cell Dev Biol 2022; 10:839997. [PMID: 35903549 PMCID: PMC9315226 DOI: 10.3389/fcell.2022.839997] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/20/2021] [Accepted: 06/13/2022] [Indexed: 12/01/2022] Open
Abstract
The RAS-regulated RAF-MEK1/2-ERK1/2 signalling pathway is frequently de-regulated in human cancer. Melanoma in particular exhibits a high incidence of activating BRAFV600E/K and NRASQ61L/K mutations and such cells are addicted to the activity of these mutant oncoproteins. As a result three different BRAF inhibitors (BRAFi) have now been approved for BRAFV600E/K- mutant melanoma and have transformed the treatment of this disease. Despite this, clinical responses are typically transient as tumour cells develop resistance. These resistance mechanisms frequently involve reinstatement of ERK1/2 signalling and BRAFi are now deployed in combination with one of three approved MEK1/2 inhibitors (MEKi) to provide more durable, but still transient, clinical responses. Furthermore, inhibitors to ERK1/2 (ERK1/2i) have also been developed to counteract ERK1/2 signalling. However, recent studies have suggested that BRAFi/MEKi and ERK1/2i resistance can arise through activation of a parallel signalling pathway leading to activation of ERK5, an unusual protein kinase that contains both a kinase domain and a transcriptional transactivation domain. Here we review the evidence supporting ERK5 as a mediator of BRAFi/MEKi and ERK1/2i resistance. We also review the challenges in targeting ERK5 signalling with small molecules, including paradoxical activation of the transcriptional transactivation domain, and discuss new therapeutic modalities that could be employed to target ERK5.
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Affiliation(s)
- Simon J. Cook
- Signalling Programme, The Babraham Institute, Babraham Research Campus, Cambridge, United Kingdom
| | - Pamela A. Lochhead
- Signalling Programme, The Babraham Institute, Babraham Research Campus, Cambridge, United Kingdom
- Mechanistic and Structural Biology, Discovery Sciences, R&D, AstraZeneca, Cambridge, United Kingdom
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16
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Yuan L, Liu J, Huang K, Wang S, Jin Y, Lin J. Cascade Reaction of Tertiary Enaminones, KSCN, and Anilines: Temperature-Controlled Synthesis of 2-Aminothiazoles and 2-Iminothiazoline. J Org Chem 2022; 87:9171-9183. [PMID: 35786913 DOI: 10.1021/acs.joc.2c00918] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/28/2022]
Abstract
A one-pot cascade strategy for the synthesis of 2-aminothiazole derivatives by tertiary enaminones, KSCN, and anilines was developed. By changing the reaction temperature, the three-component reaction could be transformed in different ways to obtain moderate to good yields of polysubstituted 2-aminothiazoles and 2-iminothiazolines. This protocol provides an efficient and concise approach to accessing 2-aminothiazole derivatives with potential bioactivity from readily accessible building blocks and reagents.
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Affiliation(s)
- Liu Yuan
- Key Laboratory of Medicinal Chemistry for Natural Resource, Ministry of Education, Yunnan Provincial Center for Research & Development of Natural Products, School of Chemical Science and Technology, Yunnan University, Kunming 650091, P. R. China
| | - Jin Liu
- Key Laboratory of Medicinal Chemistry for Natural Resource, Ministry of Education, Yunnan Provincial Center for Research & Development of Natural Products, School of Chemical Science and Technology, Yunnan University, Kunming 650091, P. R. China
| | - Kun Huang
- Key Laboratory of Medicinal Chemistry for Natural Resource, Ministry of Education, Yunnan Provincial Center for Research & Development of Natural Products, School of Chemical Science and Technology, Yunnan University, Kunming 650091, P. R. China
| | - Siyu Wang
- Key Laboratory of Medicinal Chemistry for Natural Resource, Ministry of Education, Yunnan Provincial Center for Research & Development of Natural Products, School of Chemical Science and Technology, Yunnan University, Kunming 650091, P. R. China
| | - Yi Jin
- Key Laboratory of Medicinal Chemistry for Natural Resource, Ministry of Education, Yunnan Provincial Center for Research & Development of Natural Products, School of Chemical Science and Technology, Yunnan University, Kunming 650091, P. R. China
| | - Jun Lin
- Key Laboratory of Medicinal Chemistry for Natural Resource, Ministry of Education, Yunnan Provincial Center for Research & Development of Natural Products, School of Chemical Science and Technology, Yunnan University, Kunming 650091, P. R. China
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17
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Pan X, Pei J, Wang A, Shuai W, Feng L, Bu F, Zhu Y, Zhang L, Wang G, Ouyang L. Development of small molecule extracellular signal-regulated kinases (ERKs) inhibitors for cancer therapy. Acta Pharm Sin B 2022; 12:2171-2192. [PMID: 35646548 PMCID: PMC9136582 DOI: 10.1016/j.apsb.2021.12.022] [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: 10/06/2021] [Revised: 12/18/2021] [Accepted: 12/22/2021] [Indexed: 01/09/2023] Open
Abstract
The mitogen-activated protein kinase (MAPK)/extracellular signal-regulated kinase 1/2 (ERK1/2) signaling pathway is widely activated by a variety of extracellular stimuli, and its dysregulation is associated with the proliferation, invasion, and migration of cancer cells. ERK1/2 is located at the distal end of this pathway and rarely undergoes mutations, making it an attractive target for anticancer drug development. Currently, an increasing number of ERK1/2 inhibitors have been designed and synthesized for antitumor therapy, among which representative compounds have entered clinical trials. When ERK1/2 signal transduction is eliminated, ERK5 may provide a bypass route to rescue proliferation, and weaken the potency of ERK1/2 inhibitors. Therefore, drug research targeting ERK5 or based on the compensatory mechanism of ERK5 for ERK1/2 opens up a new way for oncotherapy. This review provides an overview of the physiological and biological functions of ERKs, focuses on the structure-activity relationships of small molecule inhibitors targeting ERKs, with a view to providing guidance for future drug design and optimization, and discusses the potential therapeutic strategies to overcome drug resistance.
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Affiliation(s)
- Xiaoli Pan
- State Key Laboratory of Biotherapy and Cancer Center, Innovation Center of Nursing Research, Nursing Key Laboratory of Sichuan Province, National Clinical Research Center for Geriatrics, West China Hospital, and Collaborative Innovation Center of Biotherapy, Sichuan University, Chengdu 610041, China
| | - Junping Pei
- State Key Laboratory of Biotherapy and Cancer Center, Innovation Center of Nursing Research, Nursing Key Laboratory of Sichuan Province, National Clinical Research Center for Geriatrics, West China Hospital, and Collaborative Innovation Center of Biotherapy, Sichuan University, Chengdu 610041, China
| | - Aoxue Wang
- State Key Laboratory of Biotherapy and Cancer Center, Innovation Center of Nursing Research, Nursing Key Laboratory of Sichuan Province, National Clinical Research Center for Geriatrics, West China Hospital, and Collaborative Innovation Center of Biotherapy, Sichuan University, Chengdu 610041, China
| | - Wen Shuai
- State Key Laboratory of Biotherapy and Cancer Center, Innovation Center of Nursing Research, Nursing Key Laboratory of Sichuan Province, National Clinical Research Center for Geriatrics, West China Hospital, and Collaborative Innovation Center of Biotherapy, Sichuan University, Chengdu 610041, China
| | - Lu Feng
- State Key Laboratory of Biotherapy and Cancer Center, Innovation Center of Nursing Research, Nursing Key Laboratory of Sichuan Province, National Clinical Research Center for Geriatrics, West China Hospital, and Collaborative Innovation Center of Biotherapy, Sichuan University, Chengdu 610041, China
| | - Faqian Bu
- State Key Laboratory of Biotherapy and Cancer Center, Innovation Center of Nursing Research, Nursing Key Laboratory of Sichuan Province, National Clinical Research Center for Geriatrics, West China Hospital, and Collaborative Innovation Center of Biotherapy, Sichuan University, Chengdu 610041, China
| | - Yumeng Zhu
- State Key Laboratory of Biotherapy and Cancer Center, Innovation Center of Nursing Research, Nursing Key Laboratory of Sichuan Province, National Clinical Research Center for Geriatrics, West China Hospital, and Collaborative Innovation Center of Biotherapy, Sichuan University, Chengdu 610041, China
| | - Lan Zhang
- Sichuan Engineering Research Center for Biomimetic Synthesis of Natural Drugs, School of Life Science and Engineering, Southwest Jiaotong University, Chengdu 610031, China
| | - Guan Wang
- State Key Laboratory of Biotherapy and Cancer Center, Innovation Center of Nursing Research, Nursing Key Laboratory of Sichuan Province, National Clinical Research Center for Geriatrics, West China Hospital, and Collaborative Innovation Center of Biotherapy, Sichuan University, Chengdu 610041, China
| | - Liang Ouyang
- State Key Laboratory of Biotherapy and Cancer Center, Innovation Center of Nursing Research, Nursing Key Laboratory of Sichuan Province, National Clinical Research Center for Geriatrics, West China Hospital, and Collaborative Innovation Center of Biotherapy, Sichuan University, Chengdu 610041, China
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18
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Liao M, Qin R, Huang W, Zhu HP, Peng F, Han B, Liu B. Targeting regulated cell death (RCD) with small-molecule compounds in triple-negative breast cancer: a revisited perspective from molecular mechanisms to targeted therapies. J Hematol Oncol 2022; 15:44. [PMID: 35414025 PMCID: PMC9006445 DOI: 10.1186/s13045-022-01260-0] [Citation(s) in RCA: 57] [Impact Index Per Article: 28.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/10/2022] [Accepted: 03/28/2022] [Indexed: 02/08/2023] Open
Abstract
Triple-negative breast cancer (TNBC) is a subtype of human breast cancer with one of the worst prognoses, with no targeted therapeutic strategies currently available. Regulated cell death (RCD), also known as programmed cell death (PCD), has been widely reported to have numerous links to the progression and therapy of many types of human cancer. Of note, RCD can be divided into numerous different subroutines, including autophagy-dependent cell death, apoptosis, mitotic catastrophe, necroptosis, ferroptosis, pyroptosis and anoikis. More recently, targeting the subroutines of RCD with small-molecule compounds has been emerging as a promising therapeutic strategy, which has rapidly progressed in the treatment of TNBC. Therefore, in this review, we focus on summarizing the molecular mechanisms of the above-mentioned seven major RCD subroutines related to TNBC and the latest progress of small-molecule compounds targeting different RCD subroutines. Moreover, we further discuss the combined strategies of one drug (e.g., narciclasine) or more drugs (e.g., torin-1 combined with chloroquine) to achieve the therapeutic potential on TNBC by regulating RCD subroutines. More importantly, we demonstrate several small-molecule compounds (e.g., ONC201 and NCT03733119) by targeting the subroutines of RCD in TNBC clinical trials. Taken together, these findings will provide a clue on illuminating more actionable low-hanging-fruit druggable targets and candidate small-molecule drugs for potential RCD-related TNBC therapies.
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Affiliation(s)
- Minru Liao
- State Key Laboratory of Biotherapy and Cancer Center, West China Hospital, and West China School of Pharmacy, Sichuan University, Chengdu, 610041, China
| | - Rui Qin
- State Key Laboratory of Southwestern Chinese Medicine Resources, Hospital of Chengdu University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, School of Pharmacy, Chengdu University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Chengdu, 611137, China
| | - Wei Huang
- State Key Laboratory of Southwestern Chinese Medicine Resources, Hospital of Chengdu University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, School of Pharmacy, Chengdu University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Chengdu, 611137, China
| | - Hong-Ping Zhu
- State Key Laboratory of Southwestern Chinese Medicine Resources, Hospital of Chengdu University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, School of Pharmacy, Chengdu University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Chengdu, 611137, China.,Antibiotics Research and Re-Evaluation Key Laboratory of Sichuan Province, Sichuan Industrial Institute of Antibiotics, Chengdu University, Chengdu, China
| | - Fu Peng
- State Key Laboratory of Biotherapy and Cancer Center, West China Hospital, and West China School of Pharmacy, Sichuan University, Chengdu, 610041, China.
| | - Bo Han
- State Key Laboratory of Southwestern Chinese Medicine Resources, Hospital of Chengdu University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, School of Pharmacy, Chengdu University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Chengdu, 611137, China.
| | - Bo Liu
- State Key Laboratory of Biotherapy and Cancer Center, West China Hospital, and West China School of Pharmacy, Sichuan University, Chengdu, 610041, China.
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19
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Zhang J, Tang P, Zou L, Zhang J, Chen J, Yang C, He G, Liu B, Liu J, Chiang CM, Wang G, Ye T, Ouyang L. Discovery of Novel Dual-Target Inhibitor of Bromodomain-Containing Protein 4/Casein Kinase 2 Inducing Apoptosis and Autophagy-Associated Cell Death for Triple-Negative Breast Cancer Therapy. J Med Chem 2021; 64:18025-18053. [PMID: 34908415 PMCID: PMC10118286 DOI: 10.1021/acs.jmedchem.1c01382] [Citation(s) in RCA: 16] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 02/08/2023]
Abstract
Bromodomain-containing protein 4 (BRD4) is an attractive epigenetic target in human cancers. Inhibiting the phosphorylation of BRD4 by casein kinase 2 (CK2) is a potential strategy to overcome drug resistance in cancer therapy. The present study describes the synthesis of multiple BRD4-CK2 dual inhibitors based on rational drug design, structure-activity relationship, and in vitro and in vivo evaluations, and 44e was identified to possess potent and balanced activities against BRD4 (IC50 = 180 nM) and CK2 (IC50 = 230 nM). In vitro experiments show that 44e could inhibit the proliferation and induce apoptosis and autophagy-associated cell death of MDA-MB-231 and MDA-MB-468 cells. In two in vivo xenograft mouse models, 44e displays potent anticancer activity without obvious toxicities. Taken together, we successfully synthesized the first highly effective BRD4-CK2 dual inhibitor, which is expected to be an attractive therapeutic strategy for triple-negative breast cancer (TNBC).
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Affiliation(s)
- Jifa Zhang
- State Key Laboratory of Biotherapy and Cancer Center, Sichuan University-Oxford University Huaxi Gastrointestinal Cancer Centre, Innovation Center of Nursing Research, Nursing Key Laboratory of Sichuan Province, National Clinical Research Center for Geriatrics, West China Hospital of Sichuan University, Chengdu, 610041 Sichuan, China
| | - Pan Tang
- State Key Laboratory of Biotherapy and Cancer Center, Sichuan University-Oxford University Huaxi Gastrointestinal Cancer Centre, Innovation Center of Nursing Research, Nursing Key Laboratory of Sichuan Province, National Clinical Research Center for Geriatrics, West China Hospital of Sichuan University, Chengdu, 610041 Sichuan, China
| | - Ling Zou
- State Key Laboratory of Biotherapy and Cancer Center, Sichuan University-Oxford University Huaxi Gastrointestinal Cancer Centre, Innovation Center of Nursing Research, Nursing Key Laboratory of Sichuan Province, National Clinical Research Center for Geriatrics, West China Hospital of Sichuan University, Chengdu, 610041 Sichuan, China
| | - Jin Zhang
- State Key Laboratory of Biotherapy and Cancer Center, Sichuan University-Oxford University Huaxi Gastrointestinal Cancer Centre, Innovation Center of Nursing Research, Nursing Key Laboratory of Sichuan Province, National Clinical Research Center for Geriatrics, West China Hospital of Sichuan University, Chengdu, 610041 Sichuan, China.,School of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Health Science Center, Shenzhen University, Shenzhen 518060, China
| | - Juncheng Chen
- State Key Laboratory of Biotherapy and Cancer Center, Sichuan University-Oxford University Huaxi Gastrointestinal Cancer Centre, Innovation Center of Nursing Research, Nursing Key Laboratory of Sichuan Province, National Clinical Research Center for Geriatrics, West China Hospital of Sichuan University, Chengdu, 610041 Sichuan, China
| | - Chengcan Yang
- State Key Laboratory of Biotherapy and Cancer Center, Sichuan University-Oxford University Huaxi Gastrointestinal Cancer Centre, Innovation Center of Nursing Research, Nursing Key Laboratory of Sichuan Province, National Clinical Research Center for Geriatrics, West China Hospital of Sichuan University, Chengdu, 610041 Sichuan, China
| | - Gu He
- State Key Laboratory of Biotherapy and Cancer Center, Sichuan University-Oxford University Huaxi Gastrointestinal Cancer Centre, Innovation Center of Nursing Research, Nursing Key Laboratory of Sichuan Province, National Clinical Research Center for Geriatrics, West China Hospital of Sichuan University, Chengdu, 610041 Sichuan, China
| | - Bo Liu
- State Key Laboratory of Biotherapy and Cancer Center, Sichuan University-Oxford University Huaxi Gastrointestinal Cancer Centre, Innovation Center of Nursing Research, Nursing Key Laboratory of Sichuan Province, National Clinical Research Center for Geriatrics, West China Hospital of Sichuan University, Chengdu, 610041 Sichuan, China
| | - Jie Liu
- State Key Laboratory of Biotherapy and Cancer Center, Sichuan University-Oxford University Huaxi Gastrointestinal Cancer Centre, Innovation Center of Nursing Research, Nursing Key Laboratory of Sichuan Province, National Clinical Research Center for Geriatrics, West China Hospital of Sichuan University, Chengdu, 610041 Sichuan, China
| | - Cheng-Ming Chiang
- Simmons Comprehensive Cancer Center, Department of Pharmacology, and Department of Biochemistry, University of Texas Southwestern Medical Center, Dallas, Texas 75390, United States
| | - Guan Wang
- State Key Laboratory of Biotherapy and Cancer Center, Sichuan University-Oxford University Huaxi Gastrointestinal Cancer Centre, Innovation Center of Nursing Research, Nursing Key Laboratory of Sichuan Province, National Clinical Research Center for Geriatrics, West China Hospital of Sichuan University, Chengdu, 610041 Sichuan, China
| | - Tinghong Ye
- State Key Laboratory of Biotherapy and Cancer Center, Sichuan University-Oxford University Huaxi Gastrointestinal Cancer Centre, Innovation Center of Nursing Research, Nursing Key Laboratory of Sichuan Province, National Clinical Research Center for Geriatrics, West China Hospital of Sichuan University, Chengdu, 610041 Sichuan, China
| | - Liang Ouyang
- State Key Laboratory of Biotherapy and Cancer Center, Sichuan University-Oxford University Huaxi Gastrointestinal Cancer Centre, Innovation Center of Nursing Research, Nursing Key Laboratory of Sichuan Province, National Clinical Research Center for Geriatrics, West China Hospital of Sichuan University, Chengdu, 610041 Sichuan, China
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20
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Castro LHE, Sant'Anna CMR. Molecular Modeling Techniques Applied to the Design of Multitarget Drugs: Methods and Applications. Curr Top Med Chem 2021; 22:333-346. [PMID: 34844540 DOI: 10.2174/1568026621666211129140958] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/01/2021] [Revised: 10/23/2021] [Accepted: 10/28/2021] [Indexed: 11/22/2022]
Abstract
Multifactorial diseases, such as cancer and diabetes present a challenge for the traditional "one-target, one disease" paradigm due to their complex pathogenic mechanisms. Although a combination of drugs can be used, a multitarget drug may be a better choice face of its efficacy, lower adverse effects and lower chance of resistance development. The computer-based design of these multitarget drugs can explore the same techniques used for single-target drug design, but the difficulties associated to the obtention of drugs that are capable of modulating two or more targets with similar efficacy impose new challenges, whose solutions involve the adaptation of known techniques and also to the development of new ones, including machine-learning approaches. In this review, some SBDD and LBDD techniques for the multitarget drug design are discussed, together with some cases where the application of such techniques led to effective multitarget ligands.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Carlos Mauricio R Sant'Anna
- Programa de Pós-Graduação em Química, Instituto de Química, Universidade Federal Rural do Rio de Janeiro, Seropédica. Brazil
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21
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Zheng L, Ren R, Sun X, Zou Y, Shi Y, Di B, Niu MM. Discovery of a Dual Tubulin and Poly(ADP-Ribose) Polymerase-1 Inhibitor by Structure-Based Pharmacophore Modeling, Virtual Screening, Molecular Docking, and Biological Evaluation. J Med Chem 2021; 64:15702-15715. [PMID: 34670362 DOI: 10.1021/acs.jmedchem.1c00932] [Citation(s) in RCA: 18] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/22/2023]
Abstract
Dual inhibition of tubulin and poly(ADP-ribose) polymerase-1 (PARP-1) may become an attractive approach for cancer therapy. Here, we discover a dual tubulin/PARP-1 inhibitor (termed as TP-3) using structure-based virtual screening. TP-3 shows strong dual inhibitory effects on both tubulin and PARP-1. Cellular assays reveal that TP-3 shows superior antiproliferative activities against human cancer cells, including breast, liver, ovarian, and cervical cancers. Further studies indicate that TP-3 plays an antitumor role through multiple mechanisms, including the disturbance of the microtubule network and the PARP-1 DNA repairing function, accumulation of DNA double-strand breaks, inhibition of the tube formation, and induction of G2/M cell cycle arrest and apoptosis. In vivo assessment indicates that TP-3 inhibits the growth of MDA-MB-231 xenograft tumors in nude mouse with no notable side effects. These data demonstrate that TP-3 is a dual-targeting, high-efficacy, and low-toxic antitumor agent.
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Affiliation(s)
- Lufeng Zheng
- School of Life Science and Technology, Jiangsu Key Laboratory of Carcinogenesis and Intervention, China Pharmaceutical University, Nanjing 210009, China
| | - Ren Ren
- Key Laboratory of Drug Quality Control and Pharmacovigilance, Jiangsu Key Laboratory of Drug Design and Optimization, Ministry of Education, China Pharmaceutical University, Nanjing 210009, China
| | - Xiaolian Sun
- State Key Laboratory of Natural Medicines, Key Laboratory of Drug Quality Control and Pharmacovigilance, Department of Pharmaceutical Analysis, China Pharmaceutical University, Nanjing 210009, China
| | - Yunting Zou
- Key Laboratory of Drug Quality Control and Pharmacovigilance, Jiangsu Key Laboratory of Drug Design and Optimization, Ministry of Education, China Pharmaceutical University, Nanjing 210009, China
| | - Yiru Shi
- Key Laboratory of Drug Quality Control and Pharmacovigilance, Jiangsu Key Laboratory of Drug Design and Optimization, Ministry of Education, China Pharmaceutical University, Nanjing 210009, China
| | - Bin Di
- Key Laboratory of Drug Quality Control and Pharmacovigilance, Jiangsu Key Laboratory of Drug Design and Optimization, Ministry of Education, China Pharmaceutical University, Nanjing 210009, China
| | - Miao-Miao Niu
- Key Laboratory of Drug Quality Control and Pharmacovigilance, Jiangsu Key Laboratory of Drug Design and Optimization, Ministry of Education, China Pharmaceutical University, Nanjing 210009, China
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22
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Liu W, Jin W, Zhu S, Chen Y, Liu B. Targeting regulated cell death (RCD) with small-molecule compounds in cancer therapy: A revisited review of apoptosis, autophagy-dependent cell death and necroptosis. Drug Discov Today 2021; 27:612-625. [PMID: 34718209 DOI: 10.1016/j.drudis.2021.10.011] [Citation(s) in RCA: 20] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/17/2021] [Revised: 07/10/2021] [Accepted: 10/21/2021] [Indexed: 02/05/2023]
Abstract
Evasion of regulated cell death (RCD), mainly referring to apoptosis, autophagy-dependent cell death, necroptosis, and other subroutines, is one of the well-established hallmarks of cancer cells. Accumulating evidence has revealed several small-molecule compounds that target different subroutines of RCD in cancer therapy. In this review, we summarize key pathways of apoptosis, autophagy-dependent cell death and necroptosis in cancer, and describe small-molecule compounds that target these pathways and have potential as therapeutics. These inspiring findings light the way towards the discovery of more 'magic bullets' that could work individually or cooperatively to target precisely the three RCD subroutines and so improve cancer treatment.
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Affiliation(s)
- Wei Liu
- State Key Laboratory of Biotherapy and Cancer Center and Department of Gastrointestinal Surgery, West China Hospital, Sichuan University, Chengdu 610041, China
| | - Wenke Jin
- State Key Laboratory of Biotherapy and Cancer Center and Department of Gastrointestinal Surgery, West China Hospital, Sichuan University, Chengdu 610041, China
| | - Shiou Zhu
- State Key Laboratory of Biotherapy and Cancer Center and Department of Gastrointestinal Surgery, West China Hospital, Sichuan University, Chengdu 610041, China
| | - Yi Chen
- State Key Laboratory of Biotherapy and Cancer Center and Department of Gastrointestinal Surgery, West China Hospital, Sichuan University, Chengdu 610041, China.
| | - Bo Liu
- State Key Laboratory of Biotherapy and Cancer Center and Department of Gastrointestinal Surgery, West China Hospital, Sichuan University, Chengdu 610041, China.
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23
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Zhang J, Zou L, Shi D, Liu J, Zhang J, Zhao R, Wang G, Zhang L, Ouyang L, Liu B. Structure-Guided Design of a Small-Molecule Activator of Sirtuin-3 that Modulates Autophagy in Triple Negative Breast Cancer. J Med Chem 2021; 64:14192-14216. [PMID: 34605238 DOI: 10.1021/acs.jmedchem.0c02268] [Citation(s) in RCA: 24] [Impact Index Per Article: 8.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 02/08/2023]
Abstract
Sirtuin-3 (SIRT3) is an NAD+-dependent protein deacetylase localized primarily in the mitochondria with many links to different types of human cancers. Autophagy, which is a highly conserved lysosomal degradation process in eukaryotic cells, has been recently reported to be positively regulated by SIRT3 in cancer; therefore, activating SIRT3-modulated autophagy may be a promising strategy for drug discovery. In this study, we discovered a small-molecule activator of SIRT3 compound 33c (ADTL-SA1215) with specific SIRT3 deacetylase activity by structure-guided design and high-throughput screening. Subsequently, compound 33c inhibited the proliferation and migration of human breast carcinoma MDA-MB-231 cells by SIRT3-driven autophagy/mitophagy signaling pathways in vitro and in vivo. Collectively, these results demonstrate that pharmacological activation of SIRT3 is a potential therapeutic approach of triple negative breast cancer (TNBC). More importantly, compound 33c may be a first-in-class specific small-molecule activator of SIRT3 that would be utilized for future cancer drug development.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jin Zhang
- State Key Laboratory of Biotherapy and Cancer Center, West China Hospital, Sichuan University, and Collaborative Innovation Center of Biotherapy, Chengdu 610041, China.,School of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Health Science Center, Shenzhen University, Shenzhen 518060, China
| | - Ling Zou
- State Key Laboratory of Biotherapy and Cancer Center, West China Hospital, Sichuan University, and Collaborative Innovation Center of Biotherapy, Chengdu 610041, China
| | - Danfeng Shi
- State Key Laboratory of Biotherapy and Cancer Center, West China Hospital, Sichuan University, and Collaborative Innovation Center of Biotherapy, Chengdu 610041, China.,Warshel Institute for Computational Biology, School of Life and Health Sciences, The Chinese University of Hong Kong, Shenzhen 518172, China
| | - Jie Liu
- State Key Laboratory of Biotherapy and Cancer Center, West China Hospital, Sichuan University, and Collaborative Innovation Center of Biotherapy, Chengdu 610041, China
| | - Jifa Zhang
- State Key Laboratory of Biotherapy and Cancer Center, West China Hospital, Sichuan University, and Collaborative Innovation Center of Biotherapy, Chengdu 610041, China
| | - Rongyan Zhao
- School of Life Science and Engineering, Southwest Jiaotong University Chengdu, Chengdu 610031, China
| | - Guan Wang
- State Key Laboratory of Biotherapy and Cancer Center, West China Hospital, Sichuan University, and Collaborative Innovation Center of Biotherapy, Chengdu 610041, China
| | - Lan Zhang
- School of Life Science and Engineering, Southwest Jiaotong University Chengdu, Chengdu 610031, China
| | - Liang Ouyang
- State Key Laboratory of Biotherapy and Cancer Center, West China Hospital, Sichuan University, and Collaborative Innovation Center of Biotherapy, Chengdu 610041, China
| | - Bo Liu
- State Key Laboratory of Biotherapy and Cancer Center, West China Hospital, Sichuan University, and Collaborative Innovation Center of Biotherapy, Chengdu 610041, China
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24
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Li Y, Yang G, Zhang J, Tang P, Yang C, Wang G, Chen J, Liu J, Zhang L, Ouyang L. Discovery, Synthesis, and Evaluation of Highly Selective Vascular Endothelial Growth Factor Receptor 3 (VEGFR3) Inhibitor for the Potential Treatment of Metastatic Triple-Negative Breast Cancer. J Med Chem 2021; 64:12022-12048. [PMID: 34351741 DOI: 10.1021/acs.jmedchem.1c00678] [Citation(s) in RCA: 15] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 02/08/2023]
Abstract
We herein report the identification, structural optimization, and structure-activity relationship of thieno[2,3-d]pyrimidine derivatives as a novel kind of selective vascular endothelial growth factor receptor 3 (VEGFR3) inhibitors. N-(4-Chloro-3-(trifluoromethyl)phenyl)-4-(6-(4-(4-methylpiperazin-1-yl)phenyl)thieno[2,3-d]pyrimidin-4-yl)piperazine-1-carboxamide (38k) was the most potent VEGFR3 inhibitor (IC50 = 110.4 nM) among developed compounds. Compared with VEGFR1 and VEGFR2, VEGFR3 was approximately 100 times more selective. Here, compound 38k significantly inhibited proliferation and migration of VEGF-C-induced human dermal lymphatic endothelial cells (HDLEC), MDA-MB-231, and MDA-MB-436 cells by inactivating the VEGFR3 signaling pathway. Additionally, 38k induced cell apoptosis and a prolonged G1/S-phase in MDA-MB-231 and MDA-MB-436 cells. It also presented acceptable pharmacokinetic characteristics in Sprague-Dawley (SD) rats with an oral bioavailability of 30.9%. In the xenograft model in vivo, 38k effectively inhibited breast cancer growth by suppressing the VEGFR3 signaling pathway. 38k pronouncedly resisted the formation of pulmonary metastatic nodules in mice. Collectively, 38k may be a promising therapeutic agent of metastatic breast cancer.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yang Li
- State Key Laboratory of Biotherapy and Cancer Center, National Clinical Research Center for Geriatrics, West China Hospital of Sichuan University, Chengdu 610041, Sichuan, China
| | - Gaoxia Yang
- State Key Laboratory of Biotherapy and Cancer Center, National Clinical Research Center for Geriatrics, West China Hospital of Sichuan University, Chengdu 610041, Sichuan, China
| | - Jifa Zhang
- State Key Laboratory of Biotherapy and Cancer Center, National Clinical Research Center for Geriatrics, West China Hospital of Sichuan University, Chengdu 610041, Sichuan, China
| | - Pan Tang
- State Key Laboratory of Biotherapy and Cancer Center, National Clinical Research Center for Geriatrics, West China Hospital of Sichuan University, Chengdu 610041, Sichuan, China
| | - Chengcan Yang
- State Key Laboratory of Biotherapy and Cancer Center, National Clinical Research Center for Geriatrics, West China Hospital of Sichuan University, Chengdu 610041, Sichuan, China
| | - Guan Wang
- State Key Laboratory of Biotherapy and Cancer Center, National Clinical Research Center for Geriatrics, West China Hospital of Sichuan University, Chengdu 610041, Sichuan, China
| | - Juncheng Chen
- State Key Laboratory of Biotherapy and Cancer Center, National Clinical Research Center for Geriatrics, West China Hospital of Sichuan University, Chengdu 610041, Sichuan, China
| | - Jie Liu
- State Key Laboratory of Biotherapy and Cancer Center, National Clinical Research Center for Geriatrics, West China Hospital of Sichuan University, Chengdu 610041, Sichuan, China
| | - Lan Zhang
- School of Life Science and Engineering, Southwest Jiaotong University Chengdu 610031, China
| | - Liang Ouyang
- State Key Laboratory of Biotherapy and Cancer Center, National Clinical Research Center for Geriatrics, West China Hospital of Sichuan University, Chengdu 610041, Sichuan, China
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25
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Small molecule ERK5 kinase inhibitors paradoxically activate ERK5 signalling: be careful what you wish for…. Biochem Soc Trans 2021; 48:1859-1875. [PMID: 32915196 PMCID: PMC7609025 DOI: 10.1042/bst20190338] [Citation(s) in RCA: 12] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/25/2020] [Revised: 08/06/2020] [Accepted: 08/10/2020] [Indexed: 12/15/2022]
Abstract
ERK5 is a protein kinase that also contains a nuclear localisation signal and a transcriptional transactivation domain. Inhibition of ERK5 has therapeutic potential in cancer and inflammation and this has prompted the development of ERK5 kinase inhibitors (ERK5i). However, few ERK5i programmes have taken account of the ERK5 transactivation domain. We have recently shown that the binding of small molecule ERK5i to the ERK5 kinase domain stimulates nuclear localisation and paradoxical activation of its transactivation domain. Other kinase inhibitors paradoxically activate their intended kinase target, in some cases leading to severe physiological consequences highlighting the importance of mitigating these effects. Here, we review the assays used to monitor ERK5 activities (kinase and transcriptional) in cells, the challenges faced in development of small molecule inhibitors to the ERK5 pathway, and classify the molecular mechanisms of paradoxical activation of protein kinases by kinase inhibitors.
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26
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Németh AG, Marlok B, Domján A, Gao Q, Han X, Keserű GM, Ábrányi‐Balogh P. Convenient Multicomponent One‐Pot Synthesis of 2‐Iminothiazolines and 2‐Aminothiazoles Using Elemental Sulfur Under Aqueous Conditions. European J Org Chem 2021. [DOI: 10.1002/ejoc.202100548] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/20/2022]
Affiliation(s)
- András Gy. Németh
- Medicinal Chemistry Research Group Research Centre for Natural Sciences Magyar tudósok krt. 2 1117 Budapest Hungary
| | - Bence Marlok
- Medicinal Chemistry Research Group Research Centre for Natural Sciences Magyar tudósok krt. 2 1117 Budapest Hungary
| | - Attila Domján
- NMR Research Laboratory Research Centre for Natural Sciences Magyar tudósok krt. 2 1117 Budapest Hungary
| | - Qinghe Gao
- School of Pharmacy Xinxiang Medical University Xinxiang Henan 453003 P. R. China
| | - Xinya Han
- School of Chemistry and Chemical Engineering Anhui University of Technology Maanshan Anhui 243002 P. R. China
| | - György M. Keserű
- Medicinal Chemistry Research Group Research Centre for Natural Sciences Magyar tudósok krt. 2 1117 Budapest Hungary
| | - Péter Ábrányi‐Balogh
- Medicinal Chemistry Research Group Research Centre for Natural Sciences Magyar tudósok krt. 2 1117 Budapest Hungary
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27
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Shuai W, Wang G, Zhang Y, Bu F, Zhang S, Miller DD, Li W, Ouyang L, Wang Y. Recent Progress on Tubulin Inhibitors with Dual Targeting Capabilities for Cancer Therapy. J Med Chem 2021; 64:7963-7990. [PMID: 34101463 DOI: 10.1021/acs.jmedchem.1c00100] [Citation(s) in RCA: 62] [Impact Index Per Article: 20.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 02/08/2023]
Abstract
Microtubules play a crucial role in multiple cellular functions including mitosis, cell signaling, and organelle trafficking, which makes the microtubule an important target for cancer therapy. Despite the great successes of microtubule-targeting agents in the clinic, the development of drug resistance and dose-limiting toxicity restrict their clinical efficacy. In recent years, multitarget therapy has been considered an effective strategy to achieve higher therapeutic efficacy, in particular dual-target drugs. In terms of the synergetic effect of tubulin and other antitumor agents such as receptor tyrosine kinases inhibitors, histone deacetylases inhibitors, DNA-damaging agents, and topoisomerase inhibitors in combination therapy, designing dual-target tubulin inhibitors is regarded as a promising approach to overcome these limitations and improve therapeutic efficacy. In this Perspective, we discussed rational target combinations, design strategies, structure-activity relationships, and future directions of dual-target tubulin inhibitors.
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Affiliation(s)
- Wen Shuai
- State Key Laboratory of Biotherapy and Cancer Center, Department of Respiratory and Critical Care Medicine, Innovation Center of Nursing Research, National Clinical Research Center for Geriatrics, West China Hospital, and Collaborative Innovation Center of Biotherapy, Sichuan University, Chengdu 610041, Sichuan, China
| | - Guan Wang
- State Key Laboratory of Biotherapy and Cancer Center, Department of Respiratory and Critical Care Medicine, Innovation Center of Nursing Research, National Clinical Research Center for Geriatrics, West China Hospital, and Collaborative Innovation Center of Biotherapy, Sichuan University, Chengdu 610041, Sichuan, China
| | - Yiwen Zhang
- State Key Laboratory of Biotherapy and Cancer Center, Department of Respiratory and Critical Care Medicine, Innovation Center of Nursing Research, National Clinical Research Center for Geriatrics, West China Hospital, and Collaborative Innovation Center of Biotherapy, Sichuan University, Chengdu 610041, Sichuan, China
| | - Faqian Bu
- State Key Laboratory of Biotherapy and Cancer Center, Department of Respiratory and Critical Care Medicine, Innovation Center of Nursing Research, National Clinical Research Center for Geriatrics, West China Hospital, and Collaborative Innovation Center of Biotherapy, Sichuan University, Chengdu 610041, Sichuan, China
| | - Sicheng Zhang
- Department of Pharmaceutical Sciences, College of Pharmacy, University of Tennessee Health Science Center, Memphis, Tennessee 38163, United States
| | - Duane D Miller
- Department of Pharmaceutical Sciences, College of Pharmacy, University of Tennessee Health Science Center, Memphis, Tennessee 38163, United States
| | - Wei Li
- Department of Pharmaceutical Sciences, College of Pharmacy, University of Tennessee Health Science Center, Memphis, Tennessee 38163, United States
| | - Liang Ouyang
- State Key Laboratory of Biotherapy and Cancer Center, Department of Respiratory and Critical Care Medicine, Innovation Center of Nursing Research, National Clinical Research Center for Geriatrics, West China Hospital, and Collaborative Innovation Center of Biotherapy, Sichuan University, Chengdu 610041, Sichuan, China
| | - Yuxi Wang
- State Key Laboratory of Biotherapy and Cancer Center, Department of Respiratory and Critical Care Medicine, Innovation Center of Nursing Research, National Clinical Research Center for Geriatrics, West China Hospital, and Collaborative Innovation Center of Biotherapy, Sichuan University, Chengdu 610041, Sichuan, China.,Targeted Tracer Research and Development Laboratory, Institute of Respiratory Health, Frontiers Science Center for Disease-Related Molecular Network, West China Hospital, Sichuan University, Chengdu 610041, Sichuan, China.,Precision Medicine Key Laboratory of Sichuan Province & Precision Medicine Center, West China Hospital, Sichuan University, Chengdu 610041, Sichuan, China
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28
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Hoang VT, Matossian MD, La J, Hoang K, Ucar DA, Elliott S, Burks HE, Wright TD, Patel S, Bhatt A, Phamduy T, Chrisey D, Buechlein A, Rusch DB, Nephew KP, Anbalagan M, Rowan B, Cavanaugh JE, Flaherty PT, Miele L, Collins-Burow BM, Burow ME. Dual inhibition of MEK1/2 and MEK5 suppresses the EMT/migration axis in triple-negative breast cancer through FRA-1 regulation. J Cell Biochem 2021; 122:835-850. [PMID: 33876843 DOI: 10.1002/jcb.29916] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/11/2020] [Revised: 02/22/2021] [Accepted: 02/25/2021] [Indexed: 01/03/2023]
Abstract
Triple-negative breast cancer (TNBC) presents a clinical challenge due to the aggressive nature of the disease and a lack of targeted therapies. Constitutive activation of the mitogen-activated protein kinase (MAPK)/extracellular signal-regulated kinase (ERK) pathway has been linked to chemoresistance and metastatic progression through distinct mechanisms, including activation of epithelial-to-mesenchymal transition (EMT) when cells adopt a motile and invasive phenotype through loss of epithelial markers (CDH1), and acquisition of mesenchymal markers (VIM, CDH2). Although MAPK/ERK1/2 kinase inhibitors (MEKi) are useful antitumor agents in a clinical setting, including the Food and Drug Administration (FDA)-approved MEK1,2 dual inhibitors cobimetinib and trametinib, there are limitations to their clinical utility, primarily adaptation of the BRAF pathway and ocular toxicities. The MEK5 (HGNC: MAP2K5) pathway has important roles in metastatic progression of various cancer types, including those of the prostate, colon, bone and breast, and elevated levels of ERK5 expression in breast carcinomas are linked to a worse prognoses in TNBC patients. The purpose of this study is to explore MEK5 regulation of the EMT axis and to evaluate a novel pan-MEK inhibitor on clinically aggressive TNBC cells. Our results show a distinction between the MEK1/2 and MEK5 cascades in maintenance of the mesenchymal phenotype, suggesting that the MEK5 pathway may be necessary and sufficient in EMT regulation while MEK1/2 signaling further sustains the mesenchymal state of TNBC cells. Furthermore, additive effects on MET induction are evident through the inhibition of both MEK1/2 and MEK5. Taken together, these data demonstrate the need for a better understanding of the individual roles of MEK1/2 and MEK5 signaling in breast cancer and provide a rationale for the combined targeting of these pathways to circumvent compensatory signaling and subsequent therapeutic resistance.
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Affiliation(s)
- Van T Hoang
- Department of Medicine, Section of Hematology and Oncology, Tulane University School of Medicine, New Orleans, Louisiana, USA
| | - Margarite D Matossian
- Department of Medicine, Section of Hematology and Oncology, Tulane University School of Medicine, New Orleans, Louisiana, USA
| | - Jacqueline La
- Department of Medicine, Section of Hematology and Oncology, Tulane University School of Medicine, New Orleans, Louisiana, USA
| | - Kristine Hoang
- Department of Medicine, Section of Hematology and Oncology, Tulane University School of Medicine, New Orleans, Louisiana, USA
| | - Deniz A Ucar
- Department of Genetics and Stanley S. Scott Cancer Center, LSUHSC, New Orleans, Louisiana, USA
| | - Steven Elliott
- Department of Medicine, Section of Hematology and Oncology, Tulane University School of Medicine, New Orleans, Louisiana, USA
| | - Hope E Burks
- Department of Medicine, Section of Hematology and Oncology, Tulane University School of Medicine, New Orleans, Louisiana, USA
| | - Thomas D Wright
- Department of Pharmacology, Duquesne University, School of Pharmacy, Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania, USA
| | - Saloni Patel
- Department of Pharmacology, Duquesne University, School of Pharmacy, Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania, USA
| | - Akshita Bhatt
- Department of Pharmacology, Duquesne University, School of Pharmacy, Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania, USA
| | - Theresa Phamduy
- Department of Physics, Tulane University, New Orleans, Louisiana, USA
| | - Douglas Chrisey
- Department of Physics, Tulane University, New Orleans, Louisiana, USA
| | - Aaron Buechlein
- Medical Sciences Program, Indiana University School of Medicine-Bloomington, Bloomington, Indiana, USA
| | - Douglas B Rusch
- Center for Genomics and Bioinformatics, Indiana University, Bloomington, Indiana, USA
| | - Kenneth P Nephew
- Medical Sciences Program, Indiana University School of Medicine-Bloomington, Bloomington, Indiana, USA
| | - Murali Anbalagan
- Department of Structural and Cellular Biology, Tulane University School of Medicine, New Orleans, Louisiana, USA
| | - Brian Rowan
- Department of Structural and Cellular Biology, Tulane University School of Medicine, New Orleans, Louisiana, USA
| | - Jane E Cavanaugh
- Department of Pharmacology, Duquesne University, School of Pharmacy, Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania, USA
| | - Patrick T Flaherty
- Department of Medicinal Chemistry, Duquesne University, School of Pharmacy, Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania, USA
| | - Lucio Miele
- Department of Genetics and Stanley S. Scott Cancer Center, LSUHSC, New Orleans, Louisiana, USA
| | - Bridgette M Collins-Burow
- Department of Medicine, Section of Hematology and Oncology, Tulane University School of Medicine, New Orleans, Louisiana, USA.,Tulane Cancer Center, New Orleans, Louisiana, USA
| | - Matthew E Burow
- Department of Medicine, Section of Hematology and Oncology, Tulane University School of Medicine, New Orleans, Louisiana, USA
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29
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Pei J, Wang G, Feng L, Zhang J, Jiang T, Sun Q, Ouyang L. Targeting Lysosomal Degradation Pathways: New Strategies and Techniques for Drug Discovery. J Med Chem 2021; 64:3493-3507. [PMID: 33764774 DOI: 10.1021/acs.jmedchem.0c01689] [Citation(s) in RCA: 56] [Impact Index Per Article: 18.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 02/08/2023]
Abstract
A series of tools for targeted protein degradation are inspiring scientists to develop new drugs with advantages over traditional small-molecule drugs. Among these tools, proteolysis-targeting chimeras (PROTACs) are most representative of the technology based on proteasomes. However, the proteasome has little degradation effect on certain macromolecular proteins or aggregates, extracellular proteins, and organelles, which limits the application of PROTACs. Additionally, lysosomes play an important role in protein degradation. Therefore, lysosome-induced protein degradation drugs can directly regulate protein levels in vivo, achieve the goal of treating diseases, and provide new strategies for drug discovery. Lysosome-based degradation technology has the potential for clinical translation. In this review, strategies targeting lysosomal pathways and lysosome-based degradation techniques are summarized. In addition, lysosome-based degrading drugs are described, and the advantages and challenges are listed. Our efforts will certainly promote the design, discovery, and clinical application of drugs associated with this technology.
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Affiliation(s)
- Junping Pei
- State Key Laboratory of Biotherapy and Cancer Center, National Clinical Research Center for Geriatrics, Innovation Center of Nursing Research, Nursing Key Laboratory of Sichuan Province, West China Hospital, and Collaborative Innovation Center of Biotherapy, Sichuan University, Chengdu 610041, China
| | - Guan Wang
- State Key Laboratory of Biotherapy and Cancer Center, National Clinical Research Center for Geriatrics, Innovation Center of Nursing Research, Nursing Key Laboratory of Sichuan Province, West China Hospital, and Collaborative Innovation Center of Biotherapy, Sichuan University, Chengdu 610041, China
| | - Lu Feng
- State Key Laboratory of Biotherapy and Cancer Center, National Clinical Research Center for Geriatrics, Innovation Center of Nursing Research, Nursing Key Laboratory of Sichuan Province, West China Hospital, and Collaborative Innovation Center of Biotherapy, Sichuan University, Chengdu 610041, China
| | - Jifa Zhang
- State Key Laboratory of Biotherapy and Cancer Center, National Clinical Research Center for Geriatrics, Innovation Center of Nursing Research, Nursing Key Laboratory of Sichuan Province, West China Hospital, and Collaborative Innovation Center of Biotherapy, Sichuan University, Chengdu 610041, China
| | - Tingting Jiang
- State Key Laboratory of Biotherapy and Cancer Center, National Clinical Research Center for Geriatrics, Innovation Center of Nursing Research, Nursing Key Laboratory of Sichuan Province, West China Hospital, and Collaborative Innovation Center of Biotherapy, Sichuan University, Chengdu 610041, China
| | - Qiu Sun
- State Key Laboratory of Biotherapy and Cancer Center, National Clinical Research Center for Geriatrics, Innovation Center of Nursing Research, Nursing Key Laboratory of Sichuan Province, West China Hospital, and Collaborative Innovation Center of Biotherapy, Sichuan University, Chengdu 610041, China
| | - Liang Ouyang
- State Key Laboratory of Biotherapy and Cancer Center, National Clinical Research Center for Geriatrics, Innovation Center of Nursing Research, Nursing Key Laboratory of Sichuan Province, West China Hospital, and Collaborative Innovation Center of Biotherapy, Sichuan University, Chengdu 610041, China
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Liao M, Zhang J, Wang G, Wang L, Liu J, Ouyang L, Liu B. Small-Molecule Drug Discovery in Triple Negative Breast Cancer: Current Situation and Future Directions. J Med Chem 2021; 64:2382-2418. [PMID: 33650861 DOI: 10.1021/acs.jmedchem.0c01180] [Citation(s) in RCA: 58] [Impact Index Per Article: 19.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 02/08/2023]
Abstract
Triple negative breast cancer (TNBC) is the most aggressive subtype of breast cancer, but an effective targeted therapy has not been well-established so far. Considering the lack of effective targets, where do we go next in the current TNBC drug development? A promising intervention for TNBC might lie in de novo small-molecule drugs that precisely target different molecular characteristics of TNBC. However, an ideal single-target drug discovery still faces a huge challenge. Alternatively, other new emerging strategies, such as dual-target drug, drug repurposing, and combination strategies, may provide new insight into the improvement of TNBC therapeutics. In this review, we focus on summarizing the current situation of a series of candidate small-molecule drugs in TNBC therapy, including single-target drugs, dual-target drugs, as well as drug repurposing and combination strategies that will together shed new light on the future directions targeting TNBC vulnerabilities with small-molecule drugs for future therapeutic purposes.
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Affiliation(s)
- Minru Liao
- State Key Laboratory of Biotherapy and Cancer Center, West China Hospital, Sichuan University, Chengdu 610041, China
| | - Jin Zhang
- State Key Laboratory of Biotherapy and Cancer Center, West China Hospital, Sichuan University, Chengdu 610041, China
| | - Guan Wang
- State Key Laboratory of Biotherapy and Cancer Center, West China Hospital, Sichuan University, Chengdu 610041, China
| | - Leiming Wang
- The Institute of Chemical Biology, Shenzhen Bay Laboratory, Shenzhen 518107, China
| | - Jie Liu
- State Key Laboratory of Biotherapy and Cancer Center, West China Hospital, Sichuan University, Chengdu 610041, China
| | - Liang Ouyang
- State Key Laboratory of Biotherapy and Cancer Center, West China Hospital, Sichuan University, Chengdu 610041, China
| | - Bo Liu
- State Key Laboratory of Biotherapy and Cancer Center, West China Hospital, Sichuan University, Chengdu 610041, China
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Carmell N, Rominiyi O, Myers KN, McGarrity-Cottrell C, Vanderlinden A, Lad N, Perroux-David E, El-Khamisy SF, Fernando M, Finegan KG, Brown S, Collis SJ. Identification and Validation of ERK5 as a DNA Damage Modulating Drug Target in Glioblastoma. Cancers (Basel) 2021; 13:cancers13050944. [PMID: 33668183 PMCID: PMC7956595 DOI: 10.3390/cancers13050944] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/29/2021] [Revised: 02/18/2021] [Accepted: 02/22/2021] [Indexed: 12/22/2022] Open
Abstract
Simple Summary Glioblastomas are high-grade brain tumours and are the most common form of malignancy arising in the brain. Patient survival has improved little over the last 40 years, highlighting an urgent unmet need for more effective treatments for these tumours. Current standard-of-care treatment involves surgical removal of as much of the tumour as possible followed by a course of chemo-/radiotherapy. The main chemotherapeutic drug used is called temozolomide, however even with this treatment regimen, the average patient survival following diagnosis is around 15 months. We have identified a protein called ERK5 which is present at higher levels in these high-grade brain tumours compared to normal brain tissue, and which is also associated with resistance to temozolomide and poor patient survival. Additionally, we show that targeting ERK5 in brain tumour cells can improve the effectiveness of temozolomide in killing these tumour cells and offers potential much-needed future clinical benefit to patients diagnosed with glioblastoma. Abstract Brain tumours kill more children and adults under 40 than any other cancer, with approximately half of primary brain tumours being diagnosed as high-grade malignancies known as glioblastomas. Despite de-bulking surgery combined with chemo-/radiotherapy regimens, the mean survival for these patients is only around 15 months, with less than 10% surviving over 5 years. This dismal prognosis highlights the urgent need to develop novel agents to improve the treatment of these tumours. To address this need, we carried out a human kinome siRNA screen to identify potential drug targets that augment the effectiveness of temozolomide (TMZ)—the standard-of-care chemotherapeutic agent used to treat glioblastoma. From this we identified ERK5/MAPK7, which we subsequently validated using a range of siRNA and small molecule inhibitors within a panel of glioma cells. Mechanistically, we find that ERK5 promotes efficient repair of TMZ-induced DNA lesions to confer cell survival and clonogenic capacity. Finally, using several glioblastoma patient cohorts we provide target validation data for ERK5 as a novel drug target, revealing that heightened ERK5 expression at both the mRNA and protein level is associated with increased tumour grade and poorer patient survival. Collectively, these findings provide a foundation to develop clinically effective ERK5 targeting strategies in glioblastomas and establish much-needed enhancement of the therapeutic repertoire used to treat this currently incurable disease.
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Affiliation(s)
- Natasha Carmell
- Weston Park Cancer Centre, Department of Oncology & Metabolism, The University of Sheffield Medical School, Sheffield S10 2SJ, UK; (N.C.); (O.R.); (K.N.M.); (C.M.-C.); (A.V.); (N.L.); (E.P.-D.)
| | - Ola Rominiyi
- Weston Park Cancer Centre, Department of Oncology & Metabolism, The University of Sheffield Medical School, Sheffield S10 2SJ, UK; (N.C.); (O.R.); (K.N.M.); (C.M.-C.); (A.V.); (N.L.); (E.P.-D.)
- Department of Neurosurgery, Royal Hallamshire Hospital, Sheffield Teaching Hospitals NHS Foundation Trust, Sheffield S10 2JF, UK
| | - Katie N. Myers
- Weston Park Cancer Centre, Department of Oncology & Metabolism, The University of Sheffield Medical School, Sheffield S10 2SJ, UK; (N.C.); (O.R.); (K.N.M.); (C.M.-C.); (A.V.); (N.L.); (E.P.-D.)
| | - Connor McGarrity-Cottrell
- Weston Park Cancer Centre, Department of Oncology & Metabolism, The University of Sheffield Medical School, Sheffield S10 2SJ, UK; (N.C.); (O.R.); (K.N.M.); (C.M.-C.); (A.V.); (N.L.); (E.P.-D.)
| | - Aurelie Vanderlinden
- Weston Park Cancer Centre, Department of Oncology & Metabolism, The University of Sheffield Medical School, Sheffield S10 2SJ, UK; (N.C.); (O.R.); (K.N.M.); (C.M.-C.); (A.V.); (N.L.); (E.P.-D.)
| | - Nikita Lad
- Weston Park Cancer Centre, Department of Oncology & Metabolism, The University of Sheffield Medical School, Sheffield S10 2SJ, UK; (N.C.); (O.R.); (K.N.M.); (C.M.-C.); (A.V.); (N.L.); (E.P.-D.)
| | - Eva Perroux-David
- Weston Park Cancer Centre, Department of Oncology & Metabolism, The University of Sheffield Medical School, Sheffield S10 2SJ, UK; (N.C.); (O.R.); (K.N.M.); (C.M.-C.); (A.V.); (N.L.); (E.P.-D.)
| | - Sherif F. El-Khamisy
- Sheffield Institute for Nucleic Acids (SInFoNiA) and the Healthy Lifespan Institute, University of Sheffield, Sheffield S10 2TN, UK;
- Institute of Cancer Therapeutics, University of Bradford, Bradford BD7 1DP, UK
| | - Malee Fernando
- Department of Histopathology, Royal Hallamshire Hospital, Sheffield Teaching Hospitals NHS Foundation Trust, Sheffield S10 2TN, UK;
| | - Katherine G. Finegan
- Faculty of Biology Medicine and Health, University of Manchester, Manchester M13 9PL, UK;
| | - Stephen Brown
- Department of Biomedical Science, The Sheffield RNAi Screening Facility, The University of Sheffield, Sheffield S10 2TN, UK;
| | - Spencer J. Collis
- Weston Park Cancer Centre, Department of Oncology & Metabolism, The University of Sheffield Medical School, Sheffield S10 2SJ, UK; (N.C.); (O.R.); (K.N.M.); (C.M.-C.); (A.V.); (N.L.); (E.P.-D.)
- Sheffield Institute for Nucleic Acids (SInFoNiA) and the Healthy Lifespan Institute, University of Sheffield, Sheffield S10 2TN, UK;
- Correspondence: ; Tel.: +44-(0)114-215-9043
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