1
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Konstantinidou M, Arkin MR. Molecular glues for protein-protein interactions: Progressing toward a new dream. Cell Chem Biol 2024; 31:1064-1088. [PMID: 38701786 PMCID: PMC11193649 DOI: 10.1016/j.chembiol.2024.04.002] [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: 01/04/2024] [Revised: 03/08/2024] [Accepted: 04/08/2024] [Indexed: 05/05/2024]
Abstract
The modulation of protein-protein interactions with small molecules is one of the most rapidly developing areas in drug discovery. In this review, we discuss advances over the past decade (2014-2023) focusing on molecular glues (MGs)-monovalent small molecules that induce proximity, either by stabilizing native interactions or by inducing neomorphic interactions. We include both serendipitous and rational discoveries and describe the different approaches that were used to identify them. We classify the compounds in three main categories: degradative MGs, non-degradative MGs or PPI stabilizers, and MGs that induce self-association. Diverse, illustrative examples with structural data are described in detail, emphasizing the elements of molecular recognition and cooperative binding at the interface that are fundamental for a MG mechanism of action.
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Affiliation(s)
- Markella Konstantinidou
- Department of Pharmaceutical Chemistry and Small Molecule Discovery Center (SMDC), University of California, San Francisco, San Francisco, CA 94143, USA
| | - Michelle R Arkin
- Department of Pharmaceutical Chemistry and Small Molecule Discovery Center (SMDC), University of California, San Francisco, San Francisco, CA 94143, USA.
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2
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Pitasse-Santos P, Hewitt-Richards I, Abeywickrama Wijewardana Sooriyaarachchi MD, Doveston RG. Harnessing the 14-3-3 protein-protein interaction network. Curr Opin Struct Biol 2024; 86:102822. [PMID: 38685162 DOI: 10.1016/j.sbi.2024.102822] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/06/2024] [Revised: 03/26/2024] [Accepted: 04/05/2024] [Indexed: 05/02/2024]
Abstract
Protein-protein interactions (PPIs) play a critical role in cellular signaling and represent interesting targets for therapeutic intervention. 14-3-3 proteins integrate many signaling targets via PPIs and are frequently implicated in disease, making them intriguing drug targets. Here, we review the recent advances in the 14-3-3 field. It will discuss the roles 14-3-3 proteins play within the cell, elucidation of their expansive interactome, and the complex mechanisms that underpin their function. In addition, the review will discuss significant advances in the development of molecular glues that target 14-3-3 PPIs. In particular, it will focus on novel drug discovery and development methodologies that have delivered selective, potent, and drug-like molecules that could open new avenues for the development of precision molecular tools and medicines.
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Affiliation(s)
- Paulo Pitasse-Santos
- Leicester Institute of Structural and Chemical Biology, University of Leicester, University Road, Leicester, LE1 7RH, UK; School of Chemistry, University of Leicester, University Road, Leicester, LE1 7RH, UK
| | - Isaac Hewitt-Richards
- School of Chemistry, University of Leicester, University Road, Leicester, LE1 7RH, UK
| | | | - Richard G Doveston
- Leicester Institute of Structural and Chemical Biology, University of Leicester, University Road, Leicester, LE1 7RH, UK; School of Chemistry, University of Leicester, University Road, Leicester, LE1 7RH, UK.
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3
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Ward JA, Romartinez-Alonso B, Kay DF, Bellamy-Carter J, Thurairajah B, Basran J, Kwon H, Leney AC, Macip S, Roversi P, Muskett FW, Doveston RG. Characterizing the protein-protein interaction between MDM2 and 14-3-3σ; proof of concept for small molecule stabilization. J Biol Chem 2024; 300:105651. [PMID: 38237679 PMCID: PMC10864208 DOI: 10.1016/j.jbc.2024.105651] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/11/2023] [Revised: 12/01/2023] [Accepted: 01/01/2024] [Indexed: 02/10/2024] Open
Abstract
Mouse Double Minute 2 (MDM2) is a key negative regulator of the tumor suppressor protein p53. MDM2 overexpression occurs in many types of cancer and results in the suppression of WT p53. The 14-3-3 family of adaptor proteins are known to bind MDM2 and the 14-3-3σ isoform controls MDM2 cellular localization and stability to inhibit its activity. Therefore, small molecule stabilization of the 14-3-3σ/MDM2 protein-protein interaction (PPI) is a potential therapeutic strategy for the treatment of cancer. Here, we provide a detailed biophysical and structural characterization of the phosphorylation-dependent interaction between 14-3-3σ and peptides that mimic the 14-3-3 binding motifs within MDM2. The data show that di-phosphorylation of MDM2 at S166 and S186 is essential for high affinity 14-3-3 binding and that the binary complex formed involves one MDM2 di-phosphorylated peptide bound to a dimer of 14-3-3σ. However, the two phosphorylation sites do not simultaneously interact so as to bridge the 14-3-3 dimer in a 'multivalent' fashion. Instead, the two phosphorylated MDM2 motifs 'rock' between the two binding grooves of the dimer, which is unusual in the context of 14-3-3 proteins. In addition, we show that the 14-3-3σ-MDM2 interaction is amenable to small molecule stabilization. The natural product fusicoccin A forms a ternary complex with a 14-3-3σ dimer and an MDM2 di-phosphorylated peptide resulting in the stabilization of the 14-3-3σ/MDM2 PPI. This work serves as a proof-of-concept of the drugability of the 14-3-3/MDM2 PPI and paves the way toward the development of more selective and efficacious small molecule stabilizers.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jake A Ward
- Leicester Institute for Structural and Chemical Biology, University of Leicester, Leicester, UK; Mechanisms of Cancer and Aging Laboratory, Department of Molecular and Cell Biology, University of Leicester, Leicester, UK
| | - Beatriz Romartinez-Alonso
- Leicester Institute for Structural and Chemical Biology, University of Leicester, Leicester, UK; Department of Molecular and Cell Biology, University of Leicester, Leicester, UK
| | - Danielle F Kay
- School of Biosciences, University of Birmingham, Edgbaston, Birmingham, UK
| | | | - Bethany Thurairajah
- Leicester Institute for Structural and Chemical Biology, University of Leicester, Leicester, UK; School of Chemistry, University of Leicester, Leicester, UK
| | - Jaswir Basran
- Department of Molecular and Cell Biology, University of Leicester, Leicester, UK
| | - Hanna Kwon
- Leicester Institute for Structural and Chemical Biology, University of Leicester, Leicester, UK; Department of Molecular and Cell Biology, University of Leicester, Leicester, UK
| | - Aneika C Leney
- School of Biosciences, University of Birmingham, Edgbaston, Birmingham, UK
| | - Salvador Macip
- Mechanisms of Cancer and Aging Laboratory, Department of Molecular and Cell Biology, University of Leicester, Leicester, UK; FoodLab, Faculty of Health Sciences, Universitat Oberta de Catalunya, Barcelona, Spain; Josep Carreras Leukaemia Research Institute, Ctra de Can Ruti, Camí de les Escoles, s/n, Badalona, Barcelona, Spain
| | - Pietro Roversi
- Leicester Institute for Structural and Chemical Biology, University of Leicester, Leicester, UK; Institute of Agricultural Biology and Biotechnology, C.N.R., Unit of Milan, Milano, Italy
| | - Frederick W Muskett
- Leicester Institute for Structural and Chemical Biology, University of Leicester, Leicester, UK; Department of Molecular and Cell Biology, University of Leicester, Leicester, UK
| | - Richard G Doveston
- Leicester Institute for Structural and Chemical Biology, University of Leicester, Leicester, UK; School of Chemistry, University of Leicester, Leicester, UK.
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4
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Jiang W, Jiang Y, Luo Y, Qiao W, Yang T. Facilitating the development of molecular glues: Opportunities from serendipity and rational design. Eur J Med Chem 2024; 263:115950. [PMID: 37984298 DOI: 10.1016/j.ejmech.2023.115950] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/28/2023] [Revised: 11/09/2023] [Accepted: 11/09/2023] [Indexed: 11/22/2023]
Abstract
Molecular glues can specifically induce interactions between two or more proteins to modulate biological functions and have been proven to be a powerful therapeutic modality in drug discovery. It plays a variety of vital roles in several biological processes, such as complex stabilization, interactome modulation and transporter inhibition, thus enabling challenging therapeutic targets to be druggable. Most known molecular glues were identified serendipitously, such as IMiDs, auxin, and rapamycin. In recent years, more rational strategies were explored with the development of chemical biology and a deep understanding of the interaction between molecular glues and proteins, which led to the rational discovery of several molecular glues. Thus, in this review, we aim to highlight the discovery strategies of molecular glues from three aspects: serendipitous discovery, screening methods and rational design principles. We expect that this review will provide a reasonable reference and insights for the discovery of molecular glues.
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Affiliation(s)
- Weiqing Jiang
- Laboratory of Human Diseases and Immunotherapies, and State Key Laboratory of Biotherapy, West China Hospital, Sichuan University, Chengdu, 610041, China; Institute of Immunology and Inflammation, Frontiers Science Center for Disease-related Molecular Network, West China Hospital, Sichuan University, Chengdu, 610041, China
| | - Yunhan Jiang
- Laboratory of Human Diseases and Immunotherapies, and State Key Laboratory of Biotherapy, West China Hospital, Sichuan University, Chengdu, 610041, China; Institute of Immunology and Inflammation, Frontiers Science Center for Disease-related Molecular Network, West China Hospital, Sichuan University, Chengdu, 610041, China; Cardiovascular Surgery Research Laboratory, West China Hospital, Sichuan University, Chengdu, 610041, China
| | - Youfu Luo
- Laboratory of Human Diseases and Immunotherapies, and State Key Laboratory of Biotherapy, West China Hospital, Sichuan University, Chengdu, 610041, China.
| | - Wenliang Qiao
- Lung Cancer Center, Laboratory of Lung Cancer, West China Hospital, Sichuan University, Chengdu, 610041, China.
| | - Tao Yang
- Laboratory of Human Diseases and Immunotherapies, and State Key Laboratory of Biotherapy, West China Hospital, Sichuan University, Chengdu, 610041, China; Institute of Immunology and Inflammation, Frontiers Science Center for Disease-related Molecular Network, West China Hospital, Sichuan University, Chengdu, 610041, China.
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5
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Wu Q, Centorrino F, Guillory X, Wolter M, Ottmann C, Cossar PJ, Brunsveld L. Discovery of 14-3-3 PPI Stabilizers by Extension of an Amidine-Substituted Thiophene Fragment. Chembiochem 2024; 25:e202300636. [PMID: 37902676 DOI: 10.1002/cbic.202300636] [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: 09/17/2023] [Revised: 10/29/2023] [Accepted: 10/30/2023] [Indexed: 10/31/2023]
Abstract
Protein-protein interaction (PPI) modulation is a promising approach in drug discovery with the potential to expand the 'druggable' proteome and develop new therapeutic strategies. While there have been significant advancements in methodologies for developing PPI inhibitors, there is a relative scarcity of literature describing the 'bottom-up' development of PPI stabilizers (Molecular Glues). The hub protein 14-3-3 and its interactome provide an excellent platform for exploring conceptual approaches to PPI modulation, including evolution of chemical matter for Molecular Glues. In this study, we employed a fragment extension strategy to discover stabilizers for the complex of 14-3-3 protein and an Estrogen Receptor alpha-derived peptide (ERα). A focused library of analogues derived from an amidine-substituted thiophene fragment enhanced the affinity of the 14-3-3/ERα complex up to 6.2-fold. Structure-activity relationship (SAR) analysis underscored the importance of the newly added, aromatic side chain with a certain degree of rigidity. X-ray structural analysis revealed a unique intermolecular π-π stacking binding mode of the most active analogues, resulting in the simultaneous binding of two molecules to the PPI binding pocket. Notably, analogue 11 displayed selective stabilization of the 14-3-3/ERα complex.
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Affiliation(s)
- Qi Wu
- Laboratory of Chemical Biology, Department of Biomedical Engineering and, Institute for Complex Molecular Systems, Eindhoven University of Technology, P.O. Box 513, 5600 MB, Eindhoven, The Netherlands
| | - Federica Centorrino
- Laboratory of Chemical Biology, Department of Biomedical Engineering and, Institute for Complex Molecular Systems, Eindhoven University of Technology, P.O. Box 513, 5600 MB, Eindhoven, The Netherlands
| | - Xavier Guillory
- Laboratory of Chemical Biology, Department of Biomedical Engineering and, Institute for Complex Molecular Systems, Eindhoven University of Technology, P.O. Box 513, 5600 MB, Eindhoven, The Netherlands
| | - Madita Wolter
- Laboratory of Chemical Biology, Department of Biomedical Engineering and, Institute for Complex Molecular Systems, Eindhoven University of Technology, P.O. Box 513, 5600 MB, Eindhoven, The Netherlands
| | - Christian Ottmann
- Laboratory of Chemical Biology, Department of Biomedical Engineering and, Institute for Complex Molecular Systems, Eindhoven University of Technology, P.O. Box 513, 5600 MB, Eindhoven, The Netherlands
| | - Peter J Cossar
- Laboratory of Chemical Biology, Department of Biomedical Engineering and, Institute for Complex Molecular Systems, Eindhoven University of Technology, P.O. Box 513, 5600 MB, Eindhoven, The Netherlands
| | - Luc Brunsveld
- Laboratory of Chemical Biology, Department of Biomedical Engineering and, Institute for Complex Molecular Systems, Eindhoven University of Technology, P.O. Box 513, 5600 MB, Eindhoven, The Netherlands
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6
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Konstantinidou M, Visser EJ, Vandenboorn E, Chen S, Jaishankar P, Overmans M, Dutta S, Neitz RJ, Renslo AR, Ottmann C, Brunsveld L, Arkin MR. Structure-Based Optimization of Covalent, Small-Molecule Stabilizers of the 14-3-3σ/ERα Protein-Protein Interaction from Nonselective Fragments. J Am Chem Soc 2023; 145:20328-20343. [PMID: 37676236 PMCID: PMC10515640 DOI: 10.1021/jacs.3c05161] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/17/2023] [Indexed: 09/08/2023]
Abstract
The stabilization of protein-protein interactions (PPIs) has emerged as a promising strategy in chemical biology and drug discovery. The identification of suitable starting points for stabilizing native PPIs and their subsequent elaboration into selective and potent molecular glues lacks structure-guided optimization strategies. We have previously identified a disulfide fragment that stabilized the hub protein 14-3-3σ bound to several of its clients, including ERα and C-RAF. Here, we show the structure-based optimization of the nonselective fragment toward selective and highly potent small-molecule stabilizers of the 14-3-3σ/ERα complex. The more elaborated molecular glues, for example, show no stabilization of 14-3-3σ/C-RAF up to 150 μM compound. Orthogonal biophysical assays, including mass spectrometry and fluorescence anisotropy, were used to establish structure-activity relationships. The binding modes of 37 compounds were elucidated with X-ray crystallography, which further assisted the concomitant structure-guided optimization. By targeting specific amino acids in the 14-3-3σ/ERα interface and locking the conformation with a spirocycle, the optimized covalent stabilizer 181 achieved potency, cooperativity, and selectivity similar to the natural product Fusicoccin-A. This case study showcases the value of addressing the structure, kinetics, and cooperativity for molecular glue development.
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Affiliation(s)
- Markella Konstantinidou
- Department
of Pharmaceutical Chemistry and Small Molecule Discovery Center (SMDC), University of California, San Francisco, California 94143, United States
| | - Emira J. Visser
- Laboratory
of Chemical Biology, Department of Biomedical Engineering and Institute
for Complex Molecular Systems (ICMS), Eindhoven
University of Technology, 5600 MB Eindhoven, The Netherlands
| | - Edmee Vandenboorn
- Laboratory
of Chemical Biology, Department of Biomedical Engineering and Institute
for Complex Molecular Systems (ICMS), Eindhoven
University of Technology, 5600 MB Eindhoven, The Netherlands
| | - Sheng Chen
- Department
of Pharmaceutical Chemistry and Small Molecule Discovery Center (SMDC), University of California, San Francisco, California 94143, United States
| | - Priyadarshini Jaishankar
- Department
of Pharmaceutical Chemistry and Small Molecule Discovery Center (SMDC), University of California, San Francisco, California 94143, United States
| | - Maurits Overmans
- Laboratory
of Chemical Biology, Department of Biomedical Engineering and Institute
for Complex Molecular Systems (ICMS), Eindhoven
University of Technology, 5600 MB Eindhoven, The Netherlands
| | - Shubhankar Dutta
- Department
of Pharmaceutical Chemistry and Small Molecule Discovery Center (SMDC), University of California, San Francisco, California 94143, United States
| | - R. Jeffrey Neitz
- Department
of Pharmaceutical Chemistry and Small Molecule Discovery Center (SMDC), University of California, San Francisco, California 94143, United States
| | - Adam R. Renslo
- Department
of Pharmaceutical Chemistry and Small Molecule Discovery Center (SMDC), University of California, San Francisco, California 94143, United States
| | - Christian Ottmann
- Laboratory
of Chemical Biology, Department of Biomedical Engineering and Institute
for Complex Molecular Systems (ICMS), Eindhoven
University of Technology, 5600 MB Eindhoven, The Netherlands
| | - Luc Brunsveld
- Laboratory
of Chemical Biology, Department of Biomedical Engineering and Institute
for Complex Molecular Systems (ICMS), Eindhoven
University of Technology, 5600 MB Eindhoven, The Netherlands
| | - Michelle R. Arkin
- Department
of Pharmaceutical Chemistry and Small Molecule Discovery Center (SMDC), University of California, San Francisco, California 94143, United States
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7
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Aljabal G, Teh AH, Yap BK. In Silico Prediction and Biophysical Validation of Novel 14-3-3σ Homodimer Stabilizers. J Chem Inf Model 2023; 63:5619-5630. [PMID: 37606921 DOI: 10.1021/acs.jcim.3c00791] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 08/23/2023]
Abstract
14-3-3σ plays an important role in controlling tumor metabolic reprogramming and cancer cell growth. However, its function is often compromised in many cancers due to its downregulation. Previous studies found that homodimerization of 14-3-3σ is critical for its activity. However, to date, it is not known if stabilization of 14-3-3σ homodimers can improve its activity or prevent its degradation. In our previous work, we have showed that GCP-Lys-OMe is a potential 14-3-3σ homodimer stabilizer. However, its stabilizing effect was not experimentally validated. Therefore, in this study, we have attempted to predict few potential peptides that can stabilize the dimeric form of 14-3-3σ using similar in silico techniques as described previously for GCP-Lys-OMe. Subsequent [1H]-CPMG NMR experiments confirmed the binding of the peptides (peptides 3, 5, 9, and 16) on 14-3-3σ, with peptide 3 showing the strongest binding. Competitive [1H]-CPMG assays further revealed that while peptide 3 does not compete with a 14-3-3σ binding peptide (ExoS) for the protein's amphipathic groove, it was found to improve ExoS binding on 14-3-3σ. When 14-3-3σ was subjected to dynamic light scattering experiments, the 14-3-3σ homodimer was found to undergo dissociation into monomers prior to aggregation. Intriguingly, the presence of peptide 3 increased 14-3-3σ stability against aggregation. Overall, our findings suggest that (1) docking accompanied by MD simulations can be used to identify potential homodimer stabilizing compounds of 14-3-3σ and (2) peptide 3 can slow down 14-3-3σ aggregation (presumably by preventing its dissociation into monomers), as well as improving the binding of 14-3-3σ to ExoS protein.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ghazi Aljabal
- School of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Universiti Sains Malaysia, Gelugor, Penang 11800, Malaysia
| | - Aik-Hong Teh
- Centre for Chemical Biology, Universiti Sains Malaysia, Bayan Lepas, Penang 11900, Malaysia
| | - Beow Keat Yap
- School of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Universiti Sains Malaysia, Gelugor, Penang 11800, Malaysia
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8
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Visser EJ, Jaishankar P, Sijbesma E, Pennings MAM, Vandenboorn EMF, Guillory X, Neitz RJ, Morrow J, Dutta S, Renslo AR, Brunsveld L, Arkin MR, Ottmann C. From Tethered to Freestanding Stabilizers of 14-3-3 Protein-Protein Interactions through Fragment Linking. Angew Chem Int Ed Engl 2023; 62:e202308004. [PMID: 37455289 DOI: 10.1002/anie.202308004] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/07/2023] [Revised: 07/11/2023] [Accepted: 07/12/2023] [Indexed: 07/18/2023]
Abstract
Small-molecule stabilization of protein-protein interactions (PPIs) is a promising strategy in chemical biology and drug discovery. However, the systematic discovery of PPI stabilizers remains a largely unmet challenge. Herein we report a fragment-linking approach targeting the interface of 14-3-3 and a peptide derived from the estrogen receptor alpha (ERα) protein. Two classes of fragments-a covalent and a noncovalent fragment-were co-crystallized and subsequently linked, resulting in a noncovalent hybrid molecule in which the original fragment interactions were largely conserved. Supported by 20 crystal structures, this initial hybrid molecule was further optimized, resulting in selective, 25-fold stabilization of the 14-3-3/ERα interaction. The high-resolution structures of both the single fragments, their co-crystal structures and those of the linked fragments document a feasible strategy to develop orthosteric PPI stabilizers by linking to an initial tethered fragment.
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Affiliation(s)
- Emira J Visser
- Laboratory of Chemical Biology, Department of Biomedical Engineering and Institute for Complex Molecular Systems (ICMS), Eindhoven University of Technology, Den Dolech 2, 5612, AZ Eindhoven, The Netherlands
| | - Priyadarshini Jaishankar
- Department of Pharmaceutical Chemistry and Small Molecule Discovery Centre (SMDC), University of California San Francisco (UCSF), San Francisco, CA, 94143, USA
| | - Eline Sijbesma
- Laboratory of Chemical Biology, Department of Biomedical Engineering and Institute for Complex Molecular Systems (ICMS), Eindhoven University of Technology, Den Dolech 2, 5612, AZ Eindhoven, The Netherlands
| | - Marloes A M Pennings
- Laboratory of Chemical Biology, Department of Biomedical Engineering and Institute for Complex Molecular Systems (ICMS), Eindhoven University of Technology, Den Dolech 2, 5612, AZ Eindhoven, The Netherlands
| | - Edmee M F Vandenboorn
- Laboratory of Chemical Biology, Department of Biomedical Engineering and Institute for Complex Molecular Systems (ICMS), Eindhoven University of Technology, Den Dolech 2, 5612, AZ Eindhoven, The Netherlands
| | - Xavier Guillory
- Laboratory of Chemical Biology, Department of Biomedical Engineering and Institute for Complex Molecular Systems (ICMS), Eindhoven University of Technology, Den Dolech 2, 5612, AZ Eindhoven, The Netherlands
| | - R Jeffrey Neitz
- Department of Pharmaceutical Chemistry and Small Molecule Discovery Centre (SMDC), University of California San Francisco (UCSF), San Francisco, CA, 94143, USA
| | - John Morrow
- Department of Pharmaceutical Chemistry and Small Molecule Discovery Centre (SMDC), University of California San Francisco (UCSF), San Francisco, CA, 94143, USA
| | - Shubhankar Dutta
- Department of Pharmaceutical Chemistry and Small Molecule Discovery Centre (SMDC), University of California San Francisco (UCSF), San Francisco, CA, 94143, USA
| | - Adam R Renslo
- Department of Pharmaceutical Chemistry and Small Molecule Discovery Centre (SMDC), University of California San Francisco (UCSF), San Francisco, CA, 94143, USA
| | - Luc Brunsveld
- Laboratory of Chemical Biology, Department of Biomedical Engineering and Institute for Complex Molecular Systems (ICMS), Eindhoven University of Technology, Den Dolech 2, 5612, AZ Eindhoven, The Netherlands
| | - Michelle R Arkin
- Department of Pharmaceutical Chemistry and Small Molecule Discovery Centre (SMDC), University of California San Francisco (UCSF), San Francisco, CA, 94143, USA
| | - Christian Ottmann
- Laboratory of Chemical Biology, Department of Biomedical Engineering and Institute for Complex Molecular Systems (ICMS), Eindhoven University of Technology, Den Dolech 2, 5612, AZ Eindhoven, The Netherlands
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9
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Dewey JA, Delalande C, Azizi SA, Lu V, Antonopoulos D, Babnigg G. Molecular Glue Discovery: Current and Future Approaches. J Med Chem 2023; 66:9278-9296. [PMID: 37437222 PMCID: PMC10805529 DOI: 10.1021/acs.jmedchem.3c00449] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 9.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 07/14/2023]
Abstract
The intracellular interactions of biomolecules can be maneuvered to redirect signaling, reprogram the cell cycle, or decrease infectivity using only a few dozen atoms. Such "molecular glues," which can drive both novel and known interactions between protein partners, represent an enticing therapeutic strategy. Here, we review the methods and approaches that have led to the identification of small-molecule molecular glues. We first classify current FDA-approved molecular glues to facilitate the selection of discovery methods. We then survey two broad discovery method strategies, where we highlight the importance of factors such as experimental conditions, software packages, and genetic tools for success. We hope that this curation of methodologies for directed discovery will inspire diverse research efforts targeting a multitude of human diseases.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jeffrey A Dewey
- Biosciences Division, Argonne National Laboratory, Lemont, Illinois 60439, United States
| | - Clémence Delalande
- Department of Chemistry, University of Chicago, Chicago, Illinois 60637, United States
| | - Saara-Anne Azizi
- Pritzker School of Medicine, University of Chicago, Chicago, Illinois 60637, United States
| | - Vivian Lu
- Department of Chemistry, University of Chicago, Chicago, Illinois 60637, United States
| | - Dionysios Antonopoulos
- Biosciences Division, Argonne National Laboratory, Lemont, Illinois 60439, United States
| | - Gyorgy Babnigg
- Biosciences Division, Argonne National Laboratory, Lemont, Illinois 60439, United States
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10
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Chen SY, Zacharias M. What Makes a Good Protein-Protein Interaction Stabilizer: Analysis and Application of the Dual-Binding Mechanism. ACS CENTRAL SCIENCE 2023; 9:969-979. [PMID: 37252344 PMCID: PMC10214505 DOI: 10.1021/acscentsci.3c00003] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/05/2023] [Indexed: 05/31/2023]
Abstract
Protein-protein interactions (PPIs) are essential for biological processes including immune reactions and diseases. Inhibition of PPIs by drug-like compounds is a common basis for therapeutic approaches. In many cases the flat interface of PP complexes prevents discovery of specific compound binding to cavities on one partner and PPI inhibition. However, frequently new pockets are formed at the PP interface that allow accommodation of stabilizers which is often as desirable as inhibition but a much less explored alternative strategy. Herein, we employ molecular dynamics simulations and pocket detection to investigate 18 known stabilizers and associated PP complexes. For most cases, we find that a dual-binding mechanism, a similar stabilizer interaction strength with each protein partner, is an important prerequisite for effective stabilization. A few stabilizers follow an allosteric mechanism by stabilizing the protein bound structure and/or increase the PPI indirectly. On 226 protein-protein complexes, we find in >75% of the cases interface cavities suitable for binding of drug-like compounds. We propose a computational compound identification workflow that exploits new PP interface cavities and optimizes the dual-binding mechanism and apply it to 5 PP complexes. Our study demonstrates a great potential for in silico PPI stabilizers discovery with a wide range of therapeutic applications.
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11
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Lau R, Hann MM, Ottmann C. Crystal structure and ligandability of the 14-3-3/pyrin interface. Biochem Biophys Res Commun 2023; 651:1-7. [PMID: 36774661 DOI: 10.1016/j.bbrc.2023.02.013] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/23/2023] [Revised: 02/02/2023] [Accepted: 02/03/2023] [Indexed: 02/05/2023]
Abstract
Overactivation of Pyrin is the cause of the inflammatory diseases Mediterranean Fever and Pyrin-associated autoinflammation with neutrophilic dermatosis (PAAND). Binding of 14-3-3 proteins reduces the pro-inflammatory activity of Pyrin, hence small molecules that stabilize the Pyrin/14-3-3 complex could convey an anti-inflammatory effect. We have solved the atomic resolution crystal structures of phosphorylated peptides derived from PyrinpS208 and PyrinpS242 - the two principle 14-3-3 binding sites in Pyrin - in complex with 14-3-3 and analyzed the ligandability of these protein-peptide interfaces by crystal-based fragment soaking. The complex between 14-3-3 and PyrinpS242 appears to be much more amenable for small-molecule binding than that of 14-3-3/PyrinpS208. Consequently, only for the 14-3-3/PyrinpS242 complex could we find an interface-binding fragment, validating protein crystallography and fragment soaking as a method to evaluate the ligandability of protein surfaces.
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Affiliation(s)
- Roxanne Lau
- Laboratory of Chemical Biology, Department of Biomedical Engineering and Institute for Complex Molecular Systems, Technische Universiteit Eindhoven, Den Dolech 2, 5612 AZ, Eindhoven, the Netherlands
| | | | - Christian Ottmann
- Laboratory of Chemical Biology, Department of Biomedical Engineering and Institute for Complex Molecular Systems, Technische Universiteit Eindhoven, Den Dolech 2, 5612 AZ, Eindhoven, the Netherlands.
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12
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Aljabal G, Yap BK. In Silico Studies on GCP-Lys-OMe as a Potential 14-3-3σ Homodimer Stabilizer. Pharmaceuticals (Basel) 2022; 15:ph15101290. [PMID: 36297403 PMCID: PMC9609495 DOI: 10.3390/ph15101290] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/21/2022] [Revised: 10/09/2022] [Accepted: 10/13/2022] [Indexed: 11/18/2022] Open
Abstract
14-3-3 sigma is a vital negative cell cycle regulator. Its expression is consistently downregulated in many types of cancer through gene promoter hypermethylation or proteasomal degradation. 14-3-3 sigma needs to form a homodimer to be functional, while dimers are less prone to degradation than monomers. This suggests that a homodimer stabilizer may increase the tumor suppressive activities of 14-3-3 sigma. However, no known homodimer stabilizer of 14-3-3 sigma has been reported to date. Therefore, this study attempts to test the potential capability of GCP-Lys-OMe (previously reported to bind at the dimer interface of 14-3-3 zeta isoform), to bind and stabilize the 14-3-3 sigma homodimer. In silico docking of GCP-Lys-OMe on 14-3-3 sigma showed more favorable interaction energy (−9.63 kcal/mole) to the dimer interface than 14-3-3 zeta (−7.73 kcal/mole). Subsequent 100 ns molecular dynamics simulation of the GCP-Lys-OMe/14-3-3 sigma complex revealed a highly stable interaction with an average root-mean-square deviation of 0.39 nm (protein backbone) and 0.77 nm (ligand atoms). More contacts between residues at the homodimer interface and a smaller coverage of conformational space of protein atoms were detected for the bound form than for the apo form. These results suggest that GCP-Lys-OMe is a potential homodimer stabilizer of 14-3-3 sigma.
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13
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Chatterjee C, Singh SK. Peptide and protein chemistry approaches to study the tumor suppressor protein p53. Org Biomol Chem 2022; 20:5500-5509. [PMID: 35786742 PMCID: PMC10112546 DOI: 10.1039/d2ob00902a] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/21/2022]
Abstract
The tumor suppressor and master gene regulator protein p53 has been the subject of intense investigation for several decades due to its mutation in about half of all human cancers. However, mechanistic studies of p53 in cells are complicated by its many dynamic binding partners and heterogeneous post-translational modifications. The design of therapeutics that rescue p53 functions in cells requires a mechanistic understanding of its protein-protein interactions in specific protein complexes and identifying changes in p53 activity by diverse post-translational modifications. This review highlights the important roles that peptide and protein chemistry have played in biophysical and biochemical studies aimed at elucidating p53 regulation by several key binding partners. The design of various peptide inhibitors that rescue p53 function in cells and new opportunities in targeting p53-protein interactions are discussed. In addition, the review highlights the importance of a protein semisynthesis approach to comprehend the role of site-specific PTMs in p53 regulation.
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Affiliation(s)
- Champak Chatterjee
- Department of Chemistry, University of Washington, Seattle, WA 98195, USA.
| | - Sumeet K Singh
- Department of Chemistry, University of Washington, Seattle, WA 98195, USA.
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14
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Brink H, Riemens R, Thee S, Bieshuizen B, Da Costa Pereira D, Wijtmans M, De Esch IJP, Smit MJ, De Boer AH. Fragment screening yields a small-molecule stabilizer of 14-3-3 dimers that modulates client protein interactions. Chembiochem 2022; 23:e202200178. [PMID: 35767695 PMCID: PMC9543038 DOI: 10.1002/cbic.202200178] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/30/2022] [Revised: 06/28/2022] [Indexed: 11/30/2022]
Abstract
The development of protein‐protein interaction (PPI) inhibitors has been a successful strategy in drug development. However, the identification of PPI stabilizers has proven much more challenging. Here we report a fragment‐based drug screening approach using the regulatory hub‐protein 14‐3‐3 as a platform for identifying PPI stabilizers. A homogenous time‐resolved FRET assay was used to monitor stabilization of 14‐3‐3/peptide binding using the known interaction partner estrogen receptor alpha. Screening of an in‐house fragment library identified fragment 2 (VUF15640) as a putative PPI stabilizer capable of cooperatively stabilizing 14‐3‐3 PPIs in a cooperative fashion with Fusicoccin‐A. Mechanistically, fragment 2 appears to enhance 14‐3‐3 dimerization leading to increased client‐protein binding. Functionally, fragment 2 enhanced potency of 14‐3‐3 in a cell‐free system inhibiting the enzyme activity of the nitrate reductase. In conclusion, we identified a general PPI stabilizer targeting 14‐3‐3, which could be used as a tool compound for investigating 14‐3‐3 client protein interactions.
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Affiliation(s)
- Hendrik Brink
- Vrije Universiteit Amsterdam, Division of medicinal chemistry, faculty of life sciences, De Boelelaan 1108, 1081 HZ, Amsterdam, NETHERLANDS
| | - Rick Riemens
- Vrije Universiteit Amsterdam, Division of medicinal chemistry, faculty of life sciences, NETHERLANDS
| | - Stephanie Thee
- Vrije Universiteit Amsterdam, Division of Medicinal Chemistry, Faculty of Sciences, NETHERLANDS
| | - Berend Bieshuizen
- Vrije Universiteit Amsterdam, Division of medicinal chemistry, faculty of life sciences, NETHERLANDS
| | - Daniel Da Costa Pereira
- Vrije Universiteit Amsterdam, Division of Medicinal Chemistry, Faculty of Sciences, NETHERLANDS
| | - Maikel Wijtmans
- Vrije Universiteit Amsterdam, Division of medicinal chemistry, faculty of life sciences, NETHERLANDS
| | - Iwan J P De Esch
- Vrije Universiteit Amsterdam, Division of medicinal chemistry, faculty of life sciences, NETHERLANDS
| | - Martine J Smit
- Vrije Universiteit Amsterdam, Division of medicinal chemistry, faculty of life sciences, NETHERLANDS
| | - Albertus H De Boer
- Vrije Universiteit Amsterdam, Division of Medicinal Chemistry, De Boelelaan 1108, 1075GJ, Amsterdam, NETHERLANDS
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15
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Soini L, Leysen S, Davis J, Ottmann C. Molecular glues to stabilise protein-protein interactions. Curr Opin Chem Biol 2022; 69:102169. [PMID: 35749929 DOI: 10.1016/j.cbpa.2022.102169] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/29/2022] [Revised: 04/21/2022] [Accepted: 05/11/2022] [Indexed: 11/27/2022]
Abstract
Targeting protein-protein interactions (PPIs) has become a common approach to tackle various diseases whose pathobiology is driven by their mis-regulation in important signalling pathways. Modulating PPIs has tremendous untapped therapeutic potential and different approaches can be used to modulate PPIs. Initially, therapeutic effects were mostly sought by inhibiting PPIs. However, by gaining insight in the mode of action of certain therapeutic compounds, it became clear that stabilising (i.e. enhancing) PPIs can also be useful. The latter strategy is recently gaining a lot of attention, as stabilising physiologic, or even inducing novel interactions of a target protein with E3 ubiquitin ligases forms the basis of the targeted protein degradation (TPD) approach. An emerging additional example for drug discovery based on PPI stabilisation are the 14-3-3 proteins, a family of regulatory proteins, which engages in many protein-protein interactions, some of which might become therapeutical targets.
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Affiliation(s)
- Lorenzo Soini
- Laboratory of Chemical Biology, Department of Biomedical Engineering and Institute for Complex Molecular Systems, Eindhoven University of Technology, Eindhoven, the Netherlands; Department of Structural Biology and Biophysics, UCB Biopharma UK, Slough, UK
| | - Seppe Leysen
- Department of Structural Biology and Biophysics, UCB Biopharma UK, Slough, UK
| | - Jeremy Davis
- Department of Chemistry, UCB Biopharma UK, Slough, UK.
| | - Christian Ottmann
- Laboratory of Chemical Biology, Department of Biomedical Engineering and Institute for Complex Molecular Systems, Eindhoven University of Technology, Eindhoven, the Netherlands.
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16
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Tang R, Chen P, Wang Z, Wang L, Hao H, Hou T, Sun H. Characterizing the stabilization effects of stabilizers in protein-protein systems with end-point binding free energy calculations. Brief Bioinform 2022; 23:6565618. [PMID: 35395683 DOI: 10.1093/bib/bbac127] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/23/2021] [Revised: 02/10/2022] [Accepted: 03/15/2022] [Indexed: 02/06/2023] Open
Abstract
Drug design targeting protein-protein interactions (PPIs) associated with the development of diseases has been one of the most important therapeutic strategies. Besides interrupting the PPIs with PPI inhibitors/blockers, increasing evidence shows that stabilizing the interaction between two interacting proteins may also benefit the therapy, such as the development of various types of molecular glues/stabilizers that mostly work by stabilizing the two interacting proteins to regulate the downstream biological effects. However, characterizing the stabilization effect of a stabilizer is usually hard or too complicated for traditional experiments since it involves ternary interactions [protein-protein-stabilizer (PPS) interaction]. Thus, developing reliable computational strategies will facilitate the discovery/design of molecular glues or PPI stabilizers. Here, by fully analyzing the energetic features of the binary interactions in the PPS ternary complex, we systematically investigated the performance of molecular mechanics Poisson-Boltzmann surface area (MM/PBSA) and molecular mechanics generalized Born surface area (MM/GBSA) methods on characterizing the stabilization effects of stabilizers in 14-3-3 systems. The results show that both MM/PBSA and MM/GBSA are powerful tools in distinguishing the stabilizers from the decoys (with area under the curves of 0.90-0.93 for all tested cases) and are reasonable for ranking protein-peptide interactions in the presence or absence of stabilizers as well (with the average Pearson correlation coefficient of ~0.6 at a relatively high dielectric constant for both methods). Moreover, to give a detailed picture of the stabilization effects, the stabilization mechanism is also analyzed from the structural and energetic points of view for individual systems containing strong or weak stabilizers. This study demonstrates a potential strategy to accelerate the discovery of PPI stabilizers.
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Affiliation(s)
- Rongfan Tang
- Department of Medicinal Chemistry, China Pharmaceutical University, Nanjing 210009, Jiangsu, P. R. China
| | - Pengcheng Chen
- Institute of Big Data and Artificial Intelligence in Medicine, School of Electronics and Information Engineering, Taizhou University, Taizhou 318000, Zhejiang, P. R. China
| | - Zhe Wang
- Innovation Institute for Artificial Intelligence in Medicine of Zhejiang University, College of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Zhejiang University, Hangzhou 310058, Zhejiang, P. R. China
| | - Lingling Wang
- Department of Medicinal Chemistry, China Pharmaceutical University, Nanjing 210009, Jiangsu, P. R. China
| | - Haiping Hao
- State Key Laboratory of Natural Medicines, Key Lab of Drug Metabolism and Pharmacokinetics, China Pharmaceutical University, 210009 Nanjing, China
| | - Tingjun Hou
- Innovation Institute for Artificial Intelligence in Medicine of Zhejiang University, College of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Zhejiang University, Hangzhou 310058, Zhejiang, P. R. China
| | - Huiyong Sun
- Department of Medicinal Chemistry, China Pharmaceutical University, Nanjing 210009, Jiangsu, P. R. China
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17
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Fragment-based exploration of the 14-3-3/Amot-p130 interface. Curr Res Struct Biol 2022; 4:21-28. [PMID: 35036934 PMCID: PMC8743172 DOI: 10.1016/j.crstbi.2021.12.003] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/09/2021] [Revised: 12/06/2021] [Accepted: 12/20/2021] [Indexed: 02/06/2023] Open
Abstract
The modulation of protein-protein interactions (PPIs) has developed into a well-established field of drug discovery. Despite the advances achieved in the field, many PPIs are still deemed as ‘undruggable’ targets and the design of PPIs stabilizers remains a significant challenge. The application of fragment-based methods for the identification of drug leads and to evaluate the ‘tractability’ of the desired protein target has seen a remarkable development in recent years. In this study, we explore the molecular characteristics of the 14-3-3/Amot-p130 PPI and the conceptual possibility of targeting this interface using X-ray crystallography fragment-based screening. We report the first structural elucidation of the 14-3-3 binding motif of Amot-p130 and the characterization of the binding mode and affinities involved. We made use of fragments to probe the ‘ligandability’ of the 14-3-3/Amot-p130 composite binding pocket. Here we disclose initial hits with promising stabilizing activity and an early-stage selectivity toward the Amot-p130 motifs over other representatives 14-3-3 partners. Our findings highlight the potential of using fragments to characterize and explore proteins' surfaces and might provide a starting point toward the development of small molecules capable of acting as molecular glues. Phosphorylation of Ser 175 mediates binding of Amot-p130 to 14-3-3. The crystal structure of the 14-3-3σΔC/Amot-p130 peptide complex describes the interface. A fragment-based exploration of the interface assesses ‘ligandability’. Fragments binding at the 14-3-3/Amot-p130 interface display an initial stabilizing activity.
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Key Words
- 14-3-3 /protein-protein interactions stabilizers
- AIP4, Atrophin-1 interacting protein 4
- Amot, Angiomotin
- Amot-p130
- AmotL1/2, Angiomotin-like 1/2
- FBDD, Fragment-based drug discovery
- FP, Fluorescence polarization
- Fragment-based drug discovery
- Lats 1/2, Large tumor suppressor 1/2
- Ligandability
- MST, Microscale thermophoresis
- PPI, Protein-protein interaction
- PTMs, post-translational modifications
- X-ray crystallography
- YAP1, Yes-associated protein 1
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18
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de Esch IJP, Erlanson DA, Jahnke W, Johnson CN, Walsh L. Fragment-to-Lead Medicinal Chemistry Publications in 2020. J Med Chem 2022; 65:84-99. [PMID: 34928151 PMCID: PMC8762670 DOI: 10.1021/acs.jmedchem.1c01803] [Citation(s) in RCA: 46] [Impact Index Per Article: 23.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/20/2021] [Indexed: 12/28/2022]
Abstract
Fragment-based drug discovery (FBDD) continues to evolve and make an impact in the pharmaceutical sciences. We summarize successful fragment-to-lead studies that were published in 2020. Having systematically analyzed annual scientific outputs since 2015, we discuss trends and best practices in terms of fragment libraries, target proteins, screening technologies, hit-optimization strategies, and the properties of hit fragments and the leads resulting from them. As well as the tabulated Fragment-to-Lead (F2L) programs, our 2020 literature review identifies several trends and innovations that promise to further increase the success of FBDD. These include developing structurally novel screening fragments, improving fragment-screening technologies, using new computer-aided design and virtual screening approaches, and combining FBDD with other innovative drug-discovery technologies.
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Affiliation(s)
- Iwan J. P. de Esch
- Division
of Medicinal Chemistry, Amsterdam Institute of Molecular and Life
Sciences (AIMMS), Vrije Universiteit Amsterdam, De Boelelaan 1108, 1081 HZ Amsterdam, The Netherlands
| | - Daniel A. Erlanson
- Frontier
Medicines, 151 Oyster
Point Blvd., South San Francisco, California 94080, United States
| | - Wolfgang Jahnke
- Novartis
Institutes for Biomedical Research, Chemical
Biology and Therapeutics, 4002 Basel, Switzerland
| | - Christopher N. Johnson
- Astex
Pharmaceuticals, 436 Cambridge Science Park, Milton Road, Cambridge CB4 0QA, United Kingdom
| | - Louise Walsh
- Astex
Pharmaceuticals, 436 Cambridge Science Park, Milton Road, Cambridge CB4 0QA, United Kingdom
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19
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Ecsédi P, Gógl G, Nyitray L. Studying the Structures of Relaxed and Fuzzy Interactions: The Diverse World of S100 Complexes. Front Mol Biosci 2021; 8:749052. [PMID: 34708078 PMCID: PMC8542695 DOI: 10.3389/fmolb.2021.749052] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/28/2021] [Accepted: 09/06/2021] [Indexed: 01/04/2023] Open
Abstract
S100 proteins are small, dimeric, Ca2+-binding proteins of considerable interest due to their associations with cancer and rheumatic and neurodegenerative diseases. They control the functions of numerous proteins by forming protein–protein complexes with them. Several of these complexes were found to display “fuzzy” properties. Examining these highly flexible interactions, however, is a difficult task, especially from a structural biology point of view. Here, we summarize the available in vitro techniques that can be deployed to obtain structural information about these dynamic complexes. We also review the current state of knowledge about the structures of S100 complexes, focusing on their often-asymmetric nature.
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Affiliation(s)
- Péter Ecsédi
- Department of Biochemistry, Eötvös Loránd University, Budapest, Hungary
| | - Gergő Gógl
- Department of Integrative Structural Biology, Institut de Génétique et de Biologie Moléculaire et Cellulaire (IGBMC), INSERM U1258/CNRS UMR 7104/Université de Strasbourg, Illkirch, France
| | - László Nyitray
- Department of Biochemistry, Eötvös Loránd University, Budapest, Hungary
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20
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Soini L, Redhead M, Westwood M, Leysen S, Davis J, Ottmann C. Identification of molecular glues of the SLP76/14-3-3 protein-protein interaction. RSC Med Chem 2021; 12:1555-1564. [PMID: 34667951 PMCID: PMC8459327 DOI: 10.1039/d1md00172h] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/19/2021] [Accepted: 07/01/2021] [Indexed: 12/12/2022] Open
Abstract
The stabilisation of protein-protein interactions (PPIs) through molecular glues is a novel and promising approach in drug discovery. In stark contrast to research in protein-protein inhibition the field of stabilisation remains underdeveloped with comparatively few examples of small-molecule stabilisers of PPIs reported to date. At the same time identifying molecular glues has received recent sustained interest, especially in the fields of targeted protein degradation and 14-3-3 PPIs. The hub-protein 14-3-3 has a broad interactome with more than 500 known protein partners which presents a great opportunity for therapeutic intervention. In this study we have developed an HTRF assay suitable for HTS of the 14-3-3/SLP76 PPI and have completed a proof of concept screen against a chemically diverse library of 20 K molecules. The adaptor protein SLP76 has been reported to interact with 14-3-3 proteins downstream of the TCR playing an important role in mediating its own proteasomal degradation. We believe that stabilisation of this PPI could be exploited to potentiate degradation of SLP76 and therefore inhibit TCR signalling. This would represent an interesting alternative to other approaches in the field of targeted protein degradation. Here we disclose 16 novel stabilisers of the 14-3-3/SLP76 PPI across multiple different chemotypes. Based on the early results presented here we would recommend this approach to find molecular glues with broad applicability in the field of 14-3-3 PPIs.
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Affiliation(s)
- Lorenzo Soini
- Laboratory of Chemical Biology, Department of Biomedical Engineering and Institute for Complex Molecular Systems, Eindhoven University of Technology Eindhoven The Netherlands .,Department of Chemistry, UCB Celltech Slough UK
| | - Martin Redhead
- Exscientia Ltd, Schrodinger Building, Oxford Science Park Oxford OX44GE UK
| | - Marta Westwood
- Structural Biology, Discovery, Charles River, Chesterford Research Park UK
| | - Seppe Leysen
- Department of Structural Biology and Biophysics, UCB Celltech Slough UK
| | | | - Christian Ottmann
- Laboratory of Chemical Biology, Department of Biomedical Engineering and Institute for Complex Molecular Systems, Eindhoven University of Technology Eindhoven The Netherlands
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21
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Guillory X, Hadrović I, de Vink PJ, Sowislok A, Brunsveld L, Schrader T, Ottmann C. Supramolecular Enhancement of a Natural 14-3-3 Protein Ligand. J Am Chem Soc 2021; 143:13495-13500. [PMID: 34427424 DOI: 10.1021/jacs.1c07095] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/30/2022]
Abstract
Rational design of protein-protein interaction (PPI) inhibitors is challenging. Connecting a general supramolecular protein binder with a specific peptidic ligand provides a novel conceptual approach. Thus, lysine-specific molecular tweezers were conjugated to a peptide-based 14-3-3 ligand and produced a strong PPI inhibitor with 100-fold elevated protein affinity. X-ray crystal structure elucidation of this supramolecular directed assembly provides unique molecular insight into the binding mode and fully aligns with Molecular Dynamics (MD) simulations. This new supramolecular chemical biology concept opens the path to novel chemical tools for studying PPIs.
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Affiliation(s)
- Xavier Guillory
- Laboratory of Chemical Biology, Department of Biomedical Engineering and Institute for Complex Molecular System, Eindhoven University of Technology, (TU/e) Den Dolech 2, 5612 AZ Eindhoven, The Netherlands.,Department of Chemistry, University of Duisburg-Essen, Universitätsstraße 7, 45117 Essen, Germany
| | - Inesa Hadrović
- Department of Chemistry, University of Duisburg-Essen, Universitätsstraße 7, 45117 Essen, Germany
| | - Pim J de Vink
- Laboratory of Chemical Biology, Department of Biomedical Engineering and Institute for Complex Molecular System, Eindhoven University of Technology, (TU/e) Den Dolech 2, 5612 AZ Eindhoven, The Netherlands
| | - Andrea Sowislok
- University Clinics Essen, Experimental Orthopedics and Trauma Surgery, 45147 Essen, Germany
| | - Luc Brunsveld
- Laboratory of Chemical Biology, Department of Biomedical Engineering and Institute for Complex Molecular System, Eindhoven University of Technology, (TU/e) Den Dolech 2, 5612 AZ Eindhoven, The Netherlands
| | - Thomas Schrader
- Department of Chemistry, University of Duisburg-Essen, Universitätsstraße 7, 45117 Essen, Germany
| | - Christian Ottmann
- Laboratory of Chemical Biology, Department of Biomedical Engineering and Institute for Complex Molecular System, Eindhoven University of Technology, (TU/e) Den Dolech 2, 5612 AZ Eindhoven, The Netherlands.,Department of Chemistry, University of Duisburg-Essen, Universitätsstraße 7, 45117 Essen, Germany
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22
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Dewey JA, Azizi SA, Lu V, Dickinson BC. A System for the Evolution of Protein-Protein Interaction Inducers. ACS Synth Biol 2021; 10:2096-2110. [PMID: 34319091 DOI: 10.1021/acssynbio.1c00276] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/07/2023]
Abstract
Molecules that induce interactions between proteins, often referred to as "molecular glues", are increasingly recognized as important therapeutic modalities and as entry points for rewiring cellular signaling networks. Here, we report a new PACE-based method to rapidly select and evolve molecules that mediate interactions between otherwise noninteracting proteins: rapid evolution of protein-protein interaction glues (rePPI-G). By leveraging proximity-dependent split RNA polymerase-based biosensors, we developed E. coli-based detection and selection systems that drive gene expression outputs only when interactions between target proteins are induced. We then validated the system using engineered bivalent molecular glues, showing that rePPI-G robustly selects for molecules that induce the target interaction. Proof-of-concept evolutions demonstrated that rePPI-G reduces the "hook effect" of the engineered molecular glues, due at least in part to tuning the interaction affinities of each individual component of the bifunctional molecule. Altogether, this work validates rePPI-G as a continuous, phage-based evolutionary technology for optimizing molecular glues, providing a strategy for developing molecules that reprogram protein-protein interactions.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jeffrey A. Dewey
- Department of Chemistry, The University of Chicago, Chicago, Illinois 60615, United States
| | - Saara-Anne Azizi
- Department of Chemistry, The University of Chicago, Chicago, Illinois 60615, United States
| | - Vivian Lu
- Department of Chemistry, The University of Chicago, Chicago, Illinois 60615, United States
| | - Bryan C. Dickinson
- Department of Chemistry, The University of Chicago, Chicago, Illinois 60615, United States
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23
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Structural and molecular bases to IRE1 activity modulation. Biochem J 2021; 478:2953-2975. [PMID: 34375386 DOI: 10.1042/bcj20200919] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/18/2021] [Revised: 07/06/2021] [Accepted: 07/12/2021] [Indexed: 12/13/2022]
Abstract
The Unfolded Protein response is an adaptive pathway triggered upon alteration of endoplasmic reticulum (ER) homeostasis. It is transduced by three major ER stress sensors, among which the Inositol Requiring Enzyme 1 (IRE1) is the most evolutionarily conserved. IRE1 is an ER-resident type I transmembrane protein exhibiting an ER luminal domain that senses the protein folding status and a catalytic kinase and RNase cytosolic domain. In recent years, IRE1 has emerged as a relevant therapeutic target in various diseases including degenerative, inflammatory and metabolic pathologies and cancer. As such several drugs altering IRE1 activity were developed that target either catalytic activity and showed some efficacy in preclinical pathological mouse models. In this review, we describe the different drugs identified to target IRE1 activity as well as their mode of action from a structural perspective, thereby identifying common and different modes of action. Based on this information we discuss on how new IRE1-targeting drugs could be developed that outperform the currently available molecules.
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24
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Liu J, Cao S, Ding G, Wang B, Li Y, Zhao Y, Shao Q, Feng J, Liu S, Qin L, Xiao Y. The role of 14-3-3 proteins in cell signalling pathways and virus infection. J Cell Mol Med 2021; 25:4173-4182. [PMID: 33793048 PMCID: PMC8093981 DOI: 10.1111/jcmm.16490] [Citation(s) in RCA: 14] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/26/2021] [Revised: 03/06/2021] [Accepted: 03/13/2021] [Indexed: 12/14/2022] Open
Abstract
14-3-3 proteins are highly conserved in species ranging from yeast to mammals and regulate numerous signalling pathways via direct interactions with proteins carrying phosphorylated 14-3-3-binding motifs. Recent studies have shown that 14-3-3 proteins can also play a role in viral infections. This review summarizes the biological functions of 14-3-3 proteins in protein trafficking, cell-cycle control, apoptosis, autophagy and other cell signal transduction pathways, as well as the associated mechanisms. Recent findings regarding the role of 14-3-3 proteins in viral infection and innate immunity are also reviewed.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jiaqi Liu
- Department of Fundamental Veterinary MedicineCollege of Animal Science and Veterinary MedicineShandong Agricultural UniversityTai'anChina
- Shandong Provincial Key Laboratory of Animal Biotechnology and Disease Control and PreventionShandong Agricultural UniversityTai’anChina
| | - Shengliang Cao
- Department of Fundamental Veterinary MedicineCollege of Animal Science and Veterinary MedicineShandong Agricultural UniversityTai'anChina
- Shandong Provincial Key Laboratory of Animal Biotechnology and Disease Control and PreventionShandong Agricultural UniversityTai’anChina
| | - Guofei Ding
- Department of Fundamental Veterinary MedicineCollege of Animal Science and Veterinary MedicineShandong Agricultural UniversityTai'anChina
- Shandong Provincial Key Laboratory of Animal Biotechnology and Disease Control and PreventionShandong Agricultural UniversityTai’anChina
| | - Bin Wang
- Department of Fundamental Veterinary MedicineCollege of Animal Science and Veterinary MedicineShandong Agricultural UniversityTai'anChina
- Shandong Provincial Key Laboratory of Animal Biotechnology and Disease Control and PreventionShandong Agricultural UniversityTai’anChina
| | - Yingchao Li
- Department of Fundamental Veterinary MedicineCollege of Animal Science and Veterinary MedicineShandong Agricultural UniversityTai'anChina
- Shandong Provincial Key Laboratory of Animal Biotechnology and Disease Control and PreventionShandong Agricultural UniversityTai’anChina
| | - Yuzhong Zhao
- Department of Fundamental Veterinary MedicineCollege of Animal Science and Veterinary MedicineShandong Agricultural UniversityTai'anChina
- Shandong Provincial Key Laboratory of Animal Biotechnology and Disease Control and PreventionShandong Agricultural UniversityTai’anChina
| | - Qingyuan Shao
- Department of Fundamental Veterinary MedicineCollege of Animal Science and Veterinary MedicineShandong Agricultural UniversityTai'anChina
- Shandong Provincial Key Laboratory of Animal Biotechnology and Disease Control and PreventionShandong Agricultural UniversityTai’anChina
| | - Jian Feng
- Department of Fundamental Veterinary MedicineCollege of Animal Science and Veterinary MedicineShandong Agricultural UniversityTai'anChina
- Shandong Provincial Key Laboratory of Animal Biotechnology and Disease Control and PreventionShandong Agricultural UniversityTai’anChina
| | - Sidang Liu
- Department of Fundamental Veterinary MedicineCollege of Animal Science and Veterinary MedicineShandong Agricultural UniversityTai'anChina
- Shandong Provincial Key Laboratory of Animal Biotechnology and Disease Control and PreventionShandong Agricultural UniversityTai’anChina
| | - Liting Qin
- Shandong New Hope Liuhe Group Co., Ltd.QingdaoChina
- Qingdao Jiazhi Biotechnology Co., Ltd.QingdaoChina
| | - Yihong Xiao
- Department of Fundamental Veterinary MedicineCollege of Animal Science and Veterinary MedicineShandong Agricultural UniversityTai'anChina
- Shandong Provincial Key Laboratory of Animal Biotechnology and Disease Control and PreventionShandong Agricultural UniversityTai’anChina
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25
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Inflammageing in the cardiovascular system: mechanisms, emerging targets, and novel therapeutic strategies. Clin Sci (Lond) 2021; 134:2243-2262. [PMID: 32880386 DOI: 10.1042/cs20191213] [Citation(s) in RCA: 24] [Impact Index Per Article: 8.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/20/2020] [Revised: 08/18/2020] [Accepted: 08/19/2020] [Indexed: 12/13/2022]
Abstract
In the elderly population, pathological inflammation has been associated with ageing-associated diseases. The term 'inflammageing', which was used for the first time by Franceschi and co-workers in 2000, is associated with the chronic, low-grade, subclinical inflammatory processes coupled to biological ageing. The source of these inflammatory processes is debated. The senescence-associated secretory phenotype (SASP) has been proposed as the main origin of inflammageing. The SASP is characterised by the release of inflammatory cytokines, elevated activation of the NLRP3 inflammasome, altered regulation of acetylcholine (ACh) nicotinic receptors, and abnormal NAD+ metabolism. Therefore, SASP may be 'druggable' by small molecule therapeutics targeting those emerging molecular targets. It has been shown that inflammageing is a hallmark of various cardiovascular diseases, including atherosclerosis, hypertension, and adverse cardiac remodelling. Therefore, the pathomechanism involving SASP activation via the NLRP3 inflammasome; modulation of NLRP3 via α7 nicotinic ACh receptors; and modulation by senolytics targeting other proteins have gained a lot of interest within cardiovascular research and drug development communities. In this review, which offers a unique view from both clinical and preclinical target-based drug discovery perspectives, we have focused on cardiovascular inflammageing and its molecular mechanisms. We have outlined the mechanistic links between inflammageing, SASP, interleukin (IL)-1β, NLRP3 inflammasome, nicotinic ACh receptors, and molecular targets of senolytic drugs in the context of cardiovascular diseases. We have addressed the 'druggability' of NLRP3 and nicotinic α7 receptors by small molecules, as these proteins represent novel and exciting targets for therapeutic interventions targeting inflammageing in the cardiovascular system and beyond.
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26
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Ruks T, Loza K, Heggen M, Ottmann C, Bayer P, Beuck C, Epple M. Targeting the Surface of the Protein 14-3-3 by Ultrasmall (1.5 nm) Gold Nanoparticles Carrying the Specific Peptide CRaf. Chembiochem 2021; 22:1456-1463. [PMID: 33275809 PMCID: PMC8248332 DOI: 10.1002/cbic.202000761] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/07/2020] [Revised: 12/04/2020] [Indexed: 12/11/2022]
Abstract
The surface of ultrasmall gold nanoparticles with an average diameter of 1.55 nm was conjugated with a 14-3-3 protein-binding peptide derived from CRaf. Each particle carries 18 CRaf peptides, leading to an overall stoichiometry of Au(115)Craf(18). The binding to the protein 14-3-3 was probed by isothermal titration calorimetry (ITC) and fluorescence polarization spectroscopy (FP). The dissociation constant (KD ) was measured as 5.0 μM by ITC and 0.9 μM by FP, which was close to the affinity of dissolved CRaf to 14-3-3σ. In contrast to dissolved CRaf, which alone did not enter HeLa cells, CRAF-conjugated gold nanoparticles were well taken up by HeLa cells, opening the opportunity to target the protein inside a cell.
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Affiliation(s)
- Tatjana Ruks
- Inorganic Chemistry and Center for Nanointegration Duisburg-Essen (CeNIDE), University of Duisburg-Essen, Universitätsstrasse 5-7, 45117, Essen, Germany
| | - Kateryna Loza
- Inorganic Chemistry and Center for Nanointegration Duisburg-Essen (CeNIDE), University of Duisburg-Essen, Universitätsstrasse 5-7, 45117, Essen, Germany
| | - Marc Heggen
- Ernst Ruska-Centre for Microscopy and Spectroscopy with Electrons, Forschungszentrum Jülich GmbH, 52425, Jülich, Germany
| | - Christian Ottmann
- Laboratory of Chemical Biology Department of Biomedical Engineering and Institute for Complex Molecular Systems (ICMS), Eindhoven University of Technology, P.O. Box 513, 5600MB, Eindhoven, The Netherlands
| | - Peter Bayer
- Department of Structural and Medicinal Biochemistry, Centre for Medical Biotechnology (ZMB), University of Duisburg-Essen, 45117, Essen, Germany
| | - Christine Beuck
- Department of Structural and Medicinal Biochemistry, Centre for Medical Biotechnology (ZMB), University of Duisburg-Essen, 45117, Essen, Germany
| | - Matthias Epple
- Inorganic Chemistry and Center for Nanointegration Duisburg-Essen (CeNIDE), University of Duisburg-Essen, Universitätsstrasse 5-7, 45117, Essen, Germany
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27
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Aljabal G, Yap BK. 14-3-3σ and Its Modulators in Cancer. Pharmaceuticals (Basel) 2020; 13:ph13120441. [PMID: 33287252 PMCID: PMC7761676 DOI: 10.3390/ph13120441] [Citation(s) in RCA: 14] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/04/2020] [Revised: 11/30/2020] [Accepted: 12/01/2020] [Indexed: 01/19/2023] Open
Abstract
14-3-3σ is an acidic homodimer protein with more than one hundred different protein partners associated with oncogenic signaling and cell cycle regulation. This review aims to highlight the crucial role of 14-3-3σ in controlling tumor growth and apoptosis and provide a detailed discussion on the structure-activity relationship and binding interactions of the most recent 14-3-3σ protein-protein interaction (PPI) modulators reported to date, which has not been reviewed previously. This includes the new fusicoccanes stabilizers (FC-NAc, DP-005), fragment stabilizers (TCF521-123, TCF521-129, AZ-003, AZ-008), phosphate-based inhibitors (IMP, PLP), peptide inhibitors (2a-d), as well as inhibitors from natural sources (85531185, 95911592). Additionally, this review will also include the discussions of the recent efforts by a different group of researchers for understanding the binding mechanisms of existing 14-3-3σ PPI modulators. The strategies and state-of-the-art techniques applied by various group of researchers in the discovery of a different chemical class of 14-3-3σ modulators for cancer are also briefly discussed in this review, which can be used as a guide in the development of new 14-3-3σ modulators in the near future.
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28
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Soini L, Leysen S, Davis J, Westwood M, Ottmann C. The 14-3-3/SLP76 protein-protein interaction in T-cell receptor signalling: a structural and biophysical characterization. FEBS Lett 2020; 595:404-414. [PMID: 33159816 DOI: 10.1002/1873-3468.13993] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/11/2020] [Revised: 10/13/2020] [Accepted: 11/01/2020] [Indexed: 12/18/2022]
Abstract
The SH2 domain-containing protein of 76 kDa, SLP76, is an important adaptor protein that coordinates a complex protein network downstream of T-cell receptors (TCR), ultimately regulating the immune response. Upon phosphorylation on Ser376, SLP76 interacts with 14-3-3 adaptor proteins, which leads to its proteolytic degradation. This provides a negative feedback mechanism by which TCR signalling can be controlled. To gain insight into the 14-3-3/SLP76 protein-protein interaction (PPI), we have determined a high-resolution crystal structure of a SLP76 synthetic peptide containing Ser376 with 14-3-3σ. We then characterized its binding to 14-3-3 proteins biophysically by means of fluorescence polarization and isothermal titration calorimetry. Furthermore, we generated two recombinant SLP76 protein constructs and characterized their binding to 14-3-3. Our work lays the foundation for drug design efforts aimed at targeting the 14-3-3/SLP76 interaction and, thereby, TCR signalling.
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Affiliation(s)
- Lorenzo Soini
- Laboratory of Chemical Biology, Department of Biomedical Engineering and Institute for Complex Molecular Systems, Eindhoven University of Technology, Eindhoven, the Netherlands.,Department of Chemistry, UCB Celltech, Slough, UK
| | - Seppe Leysen
- Department of Structural Biology and Biophysics, UCB Celltech, Slough, UK
| | - Jeremy Davis
- Department of Chemistry, UCB Celltech, Slough, UK
| | | | - Christian Ottmann
- Laboratory of Chemical Biology, Department of Biomedical Engineering and Institute for Complex Molecular Systems, Eindhoven University of Technology, Eindhoven, the Netherlands
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29
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Falcicchio M, Ward JA, Macip S, Doveston RG. Regulation of p53 by the 14-3-3 protein interaction network: new opportunities for drug discovery in cancer. Cell Death Discov 2020; 6:126. [PMID: 33298896 PMCID: PMC7669891 DOI: 10.1038/s41420-020-00362-3] [Citation(s) in RCA: 32] [Impact Index Per Article: 8.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/04/2020] [Revised: 10/02/2020] [Accepted: 10/23/2020] [Indexed: 01/17/2023] Open
Abstract
Most cancers evolve to disable the p53 pathway, a key tumour suppressor mechanism that prevents transformation and malignant cell growth. However, only ~50% exhibit inactivating mutations of p53, while in the rest its activity is suppressed by changes in the proteins that modulate the pathway. Therefore, restoring p53 activity in cells in which it is still wild type is a highly attractive therapeutic strategy that could be effective in many different cancer types. To this end, drugs can be used to stabilise p53 levels by modulating its regulatory pathways. However, despite the emergence of promising strategies, drug development has stalled in clinical trials. The need for alternative approaches has shifted the spotlight to the 14-3-3 family of proteins, which strongly influence p53 stability and transcriptional activity through direct and indirect interactions. Here, we present the first detailed review of how 14-3-3 proteins regulate p53, with special emphasis on the mechanisms involved in their binding to different members of the pathway. This information will be important to design new compounds that can reactivate p53 in cancer cells by influencing protein-protein interactions. The intricate relationship between the 14-3-3 isoforms and the p53 pathway suggests that many potential drug targets for p53 reactivation could be identified and exploited to design novel antineoplastic therapies with a wide range of applications.
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Affiliation(s)
- Marta Falcicchio
- Leicester Institute for Structural and Chemical Biology, University of Leicester, University Road, Leicester, LE1 7RH, UK
- School of Chemistry, University of Leicester, University Road, Leicester, LE1 7RH, UK
| | - Jake A Ward
- Leicester Institute for Structural and Chemical Biology, University of Leicester, University Road, Leicester, LE1 7RH, UK
- Mechanisms of Cancer and Ageing Lab, Department of Molecular and Cell Biology, University of Leicester, University Road, Leicester, LE1 7RH, UK
| | - Salvador Macip
- Mechanisms of Cancer and Ageing Lab, Department of Molecular and Cell Biology, University of Leicester, University Road, Leicester, LE1 7RH, UK.
- FoodLab, Faculty of Health Sciences, Universitat Oberta de Catalunya, Barcelona, Spain.
| | - Richard G Doveston
- Leicester Institute for Structural and Chemical Biology, University of Leicester, University Road, Leicester, LE1 7RH, UK.
- School of Chemistry, University of Leicester, University Road, Leicester, LE1 7RH, UK.
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30
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Ballone A, Picarazzi F, Prosser C, Davis J, Ottmann C, Mori M. Experimental and Computational Druggability Exploration of the 14-3-3ζ/SOS1pS 1161 PPI Interface. J Chem Inf Model 2020; 60:6555-6565. [PMID: 33138374 DOI: 10.1021/acs.jcim.0c00722] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/29/2022]
Abstract
The exploration of the druggability of certain protein-protein interactions (PPIs) still remains a challenging task in drug discovery. Here, we present a case study using the 14-3-3-PPI, showing how small molecules can be located that are able to modulate this key oncogenic pathway. A workflow embracing biophysical techniques and MD simulations was developed to evaluate the potential of a 14-3-3ζ PPI system to bind new tool compounds. The significance of the use of computational approaches to compensate for the limitations of experimental techniques is demonstrated.
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Affiliation(s)
- Alice Ballone
- Department of Biochemical Engineering and Institute for Complex Molecular Systems, Laboratory of Chemical Biology, University of Technology Eindhoven, 5600 MB, Eindhoven, The Netherlands.,Department of Biotechnology, Chemistry and Pharmacy, Department of Excellence 2018-2022, University of Siena, Via Aldo Moro 2, 53100 Siena, Italy.,Department of Chemistry, UCB Pharma SPRL, 216 Bath Rd., Slough SL1 3WE, United Kingdom
| | - Francesca Picarazzi
- Department of Biotechnology, Chemistry and Pharmacy, Department of Excellence 2018-2022, University of Siena, Via Aldo Moro 2, 53100 Siena, Italy
| | - Christine Prosser
- Department of Chemistry, UCB Pharma SPRL, 216 Bath Rd., Slough SL1 3WE, United Kingdom
| | - Jeremy Davis
- Department of Chemistry, UCB Pharma SPRL, 216 Bath Rd., Slough SL1 3WE, United Kingdom
| | - Christian Ottmann
- Department of Biochemical Engineering and Institute for Complex Molecular Systems, Laboratory of Chemical Biology, University of Technology Eindhoven, 5600 MB, Eindhoven, The Netherlands
| | - Mattia Mori
- Department of Biotechnology, Chemistry and Pharmacy, Department of Excellence 2018-2022, University of Siena, Via Aldo Moro 2, 53100 Siena, Italy
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31
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Bayer P, Matena A, Beuck C. NMR Spectroscopy of supramolecular chemistry on protein surfaces. Beilstein J Org Chem 2020; 16:2505-2522. [PMID: 33093929 PMCID: PMC7554676 DOI: 10.3762/bjoc.16.203] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/31/2020] [Accepted: 09/18/2020] [Indexed: 01/17/2023] Open
Abstract
As one of the few analytical methods that offer atomic resolution, NMR spectroscopy is a valuable tool to study the interaction of proteins with their interaction partners, both biomolecules and synthetic ligands. In recent years, the focus in chemistry has kept expanding from targeting small binding pockets in proteins to recognizing patches on protein surfaces, mostly via supramolecular chemistry, with the goal to modulate protein-protein interactions. Here we present NMR methods that have been applied to characterize these molecular interactions and discuss the challenges of this endeavor.
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Affiliation(s)
- Peter Bayer
- Structural and Medicinal Biochemistry, University of Duisburg-Essen, Universitätsstr. 1-5, 45141 Essen, Germany
| | - Anja Matena
- Structural and Medicinal Biochemistry, University of Duisburg-Essen, Universitätsstr. 1-5, 45141 Essen, Germany
| | - Christine Beuck
- Structural and Medicinal Biochemistry, University of Duisburg-Essen, Universitätsstr. 1-5, 45141 Essen, Germany
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32
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Ballone A, Lau RA, Zweipfenning FPA, Ottmann C. A new soaking procedure for X-ray crystallographic structural determination of protein-peptide complexes. Acta Crystallogr F Struct Biol Commun 2020; 76:501-507. [PMID: 33006579 PMCID: PMC7531243 DOI: 10.1107/s2053230x2001122x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/27/2020] [Accepted: 08/16/2020] [Indexed: 11/29/2022] Open
Abstract
Interactions between a protein and a peptide motif of its protein partner are prevalent in nature. Often, a protein also has multiple interaction partners. X-ray protein crystallography is commonly used to examine these interactions in terms of bond distances and angles as well as to describe hotspots within protein complexes. However, the crystallization process presents a significant bottleneck in structure determination since it often requires notably time-consuming screening procedures, which involve testing a broad range of crystallization conditions via a trial-and-error approach. This difficulty is also increased as each protein-peptide complex does not necessarily crystallize under the same conditions. Here, a new co-crystallization/peptide-soaking method is presented which circumvents the need to return to the initial lengthy crystal screening and optimization processes for each consequent new complex. The 14-3-3σ protein, which has multiple interacting partners with specific peptidic motifs, was used as a case study. It was found that co-crystals of 14-3-3σ and a low-affinity peptide from one of its partners, c-Jun, could easily be soaked with another interacting peptide to quickly and easily generate new structures at high resolution. Not only does this significantly reduce the production time, but new 14-3-3-peptide structures that were previously not accessible with the 14-3-3σ isoform, despite screening hundreds of other different conditions, were now also able to be resolved. The findings achieved in this study may be considered as a supporting and practical guide to potentially enable the acceleration of the crystallization process of any protein-peptide system.
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Affiliation(s)
- Alice Ballone
- Laboratory of Chemical Biology, Department of Biomedical Engineering and Institute for Complex Molecular Systems, Eindhoven University of Technology, Den Dolech 2, 5612 AZ Eindhoven, The Netherlands
| | - Roxanne A. Lau
- Laboratory of Chemical Biology, Department of Biomedical Engineering and Institute for Complex Molecular Systems, Eindhoven University of Technology, Den Dolech 2, 5612 AZ Eindhoven, The Netherlands
| | - Fabian P. A. Zweipfenning
- Laboratory of Chemical Biology, Department of Biomedical Engineering and Institute for Complex Molecular Systems, Eindhoven University of Technology, Den Dolech 2, 5612 AZ Eindhoven, The Netherlands
| | - Christian Ottmann
- Laboratory of Chemical Biology, Department of Biomedical Engineering and Institute for Complex Molecular Systems, Eindhoven University of Technology, Den Dolech 2, 5612 AZ Eindhoven, The Netherlands
- Department of Chemistry, University of Duisburg-Essen, Universitätsstrasse 7, 45117 Essen, Germany
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