1
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Brankiewicz-Kopcinska W, Kallingal A, Krzemieniecki R, Baginski M. Targeting shelterin proteins for cancer therapy. Drug Discov Today 2024; 29:104056. [PMID: 38844065 DOI: 10.1016/j.drudis.2024.104056] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/19/2024] [Revised: 05/17/2024] [Accepted: 05/31/2024] [Indexed: 06/12/2024]
Abstract
As a global health challenge, cancer prompts continuous exploration for innovative therapies that are also based on new targets. One promising avenue is targeting the shelterin protein complex, a safeguard for telomeres crucial in preventing DNA damage. The role of shelterin in modulating ataxia-telangiectasia mutated (ATM) and ataxia-telangiectasia and Rad3-related (ATR) kinases, key players in the DNA damage response (DDR), establishes its significance in cancer cells. Disrupting these defence mechanisms of shelterins, especially in cancer cells, renders telomeres vulnerable, potentially leading to genomic instability and hindering cancer cell survival. In this review, we outline recent approaches exploring shelterins as potential anticancer targets, highlighting the prospect of developing selective molecules to exploit telomere vulnerabilities toward new innovative cancer treatments.
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Affiliation(s)
- Wioletta Brankiewicz-Kopcinska
- Department of Pharmaceutical Technology and Biochemistry, Gdansk University of Technology, G. Narutowicza St 11/12, 80-233 Gdansk, Poland; Department of Medical Genetics, Institute of Clinical Medicine, University of Oslo, Kirkeveien 166, 0450 Oslo, Norway.
| | - Anoop Kallingal
- Department of Pharmaceutical Technology and Biochemistry, Gdansk University of Technology, G. Narutowicza St 11/12, 80-233 Gdansk, Poland
| | - Radoslaw Krzemieniecki
- Department of Pharmaceutical Technology and Biochemistry, Gdansk University of Technology, G. Narutowicza St 11/12, 80-233 Gdansk, Poland
| | - Maciej Baginski
- Department of Pharmaceutical Technology and Biochemistry, Gdansk University of Technology, G. Narutowicza St 11/12, 80-233 Gdansk, Poland.
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2
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Ng YB, Akincilar SC. Shaping DNA damage responses: Therapeutic potential of targeting telomeric proteins and DNA repair factors in cancer. Curr Opin Pharmacol 2024; 76:102460. [PMID: 38776747 DOI: 10.1016/j.coph.2024.102460] [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: 12/10/2022] [Revised: 10/06/2023] [Accepted: 10/11/2023] [Indexed: 05/25/2024]
Abstract
Shelterin proteins regulate genomic stability by preventing inappropriate DNA damage responses (DDRs) at telomeres. Unprotected telomeres lead to persistent DDR causing cell cycle inhibition, growth arrest, and apoptosis. Cancer cells rely on DDR to protect themselves from DNA lesions and exogenous DNA-damaging agents such as chemotherapy and radiotherapy. Therefore, targeting DDR machinery is a promising strategy to increase the sensitivity of cancer cells to existing cancer therapies. However, the success of these DDR inhibitors depends on other mutations, and over time, patients develop resistance to these therapies. This suggests the need for alternative approaches. One promising strategy is co-inhibiting shelterin proteins with DDR molecules, which would offset cellular fitness in DNA repair in a mutation-independent manner. This review highlights the associations and dependencies of the shelterin complex with the DDR proteins and discusses potential co-inhibition strategies that might improve the therapeutic potential of current inhibitors.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yu Bin Ng
- Laboratory of NFκB Signalling, Institute of Molecular and Cell Biology (IMCB), Agency for Science, Technology and Research (A∗STAR), 61 Biopolis Drive, Proteos, Singapore 138673, Republic of Singapore
| | - Semih Can Akincilar
- Laboratory of NFκB Signalling, Institute of Molecular and Cell Biology (IMCB), Agency for Science, Technology and Research (A∗STAR), 61 Biopolis Drive, Proteos, Singapore 138673, Republic of Singapore.
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3
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Sobinoff AP, Di Maro S, Low RRJ, Benedetti R, Tomassi S, D'Aniello A, Russo R, Baglivo I, Chianese U, Pedone PV, Chambery A, Cesare AJ, Altucci L, Pickett HA, Cosconati S. Irreversible inhibition of TRF2 TRFH recruiting functions by a covalent cyclic peptide induces telomeric replication stress in cancer cells. Cell Chem Biol 2023; 30:1652-1665.e6. [PMID: 38065101 DOI: 10.1016/j.chembiol.2023.11.008] [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: 07/25/2022] [Revised: 09/28/2023] [Accepted: 11/13/2023] [Indexed: 12/24/2023]
Abstract
The TRF2 shelterin component is an essential regulator of telomere homeostasis and genomic stability. Mutations in the TRF2TRFH domain physically impair t-loop formation and prevent the recruitment of several factors that promote efficient telomere replication, causing telomeric DNA damage. Here, we design, synthesize, and biologically test covalent cyclic peptides that irreversibly target the TRF2TRFH domain. We identify APOD53 as our most promising compound, as it consistently induces a telomeric DNA damage response in cancer cell lines. APOD53 forms a covalent adduct with a reactive cysteine residue present in the TRF2TRFH domain and induces phenotypes consistent with TRF2TRFH domain mutants. These include induction of a telomeric DNA damage response, increased telomeric replication stress, and impaired recruitment of RTEL1 and SLX4 to telomeres. We demonstrate that APOD53 impairs cancer cell growth and find that co-treatment with APOD53 can exacerbate telomere replication stress caused by the G4 stabilizer RHPS4 and low dose aphidicolin (APH).
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Affiliation(s)
- Alexander P Sobinoff
- Telomere Length Regulation Unit, Children's Medical Research Institute, Faculty of Medicine and Health, University of Sydney, Westmead, NSW 2145, Australia
| | - Salvatore Di Maro
- DiSTABiF, University of Campania "Luigi Vanvitelli", Via Vivaldi 43, 81100 Caserta, Italy
| | - Ronnie R J Low
- Genome Integrity Unit, Children's Medical Research Institute, Faculty of Medicine and Health, University of Sydney, Westmead, NSW 2145, Australia
| | - Rosaria Benedetti
- Department of Precision Medicine, University of Campania "Luigi Vanvitelli", Vico L. De Crecchio 7, 80138 Naples, Italy; Azienda Ospedaliera Universitaria "Luigi Vanvitelli", Medical Epigenetics Program
| | - Stefano Tomassi
- Department of Pharmacy, University of Naples "Federico II", Via D. Montesano 49, 80131 Naples, Italy
| | - Antonia D'Aniello
- DiSTABiF, University of Campania "Luigi Vanvitelli", Via Vivaldi 43, 81100 Caserta, Italy
| | - Rosita Russo
- DiSTABiF, University of Campania "Luigi Vanvitelli", Via Vivaldi 43, 81100 Caserta, Italy
| | - Ilaria Baglivo
- DiSTABiF, University of Campania "Luigi Vanvitelli", Via Vivaldi 43, 81100 Caserta, Italy
| | - Ugo Chianese
- Department of Precision Medicine, University of Campania "Luigi Vanvitelli", Vico L. De Crecchio 7, 80138 Naples, Italy
| | - Paolo V Pedone
- DiSTABiF, University of Campania "Luigi Vanvitelli", Via Vivaldi 43, 81100 Caserta, Italy
| | - Angela Chambery
- DiSTABiF, University of Campania "Luigi Vanvitelli", Via Vivaldi 43, 81100 Caserta, Italy
| | - Anthony J Cesare
- Genome Integrity Unit, Children's Medical Research Institute, Faculty of Medicine and Health, University of Sydney, Westmead, NSW 2145, Australia
| | - Lucia Altucci
- Department of Precision Medicine, University of Campania "Luigi Vanvitelli", Vico L. De Crecchio 7, 80138 Naples, Italy; BIOGEM, 83031 Ariano Irpino, Italy; Azienda Ospedaliera Universitaria "Luigi Vanvitelli", Medical Epigenetics Program; IEOS CNR, Napoli, Italy
| | - Hilda A Pickett
- Telomere Length Regulation Unit, Children's Medical Research Institute, Faculty of Medicine and Health, University of Sydney, Westmead, NSW 2145, Australia.
| | - Sandro Cosconati
- DiSTABiF, University of Campania "Luigi Vanvitelli", Via Vivaldi 43, 81100 Caserta, Italy.
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4
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Brankiewicz W, Kalathiya U, Padariya M, Węgrzyn K, Prusinowski M, Zebrowska J, Zylicz-Stachula A, Skowron P, Drab M, Szajewski M, Ciesielski M, Gawrońska M, Kallingal A, Makowski M, Bagiński M. Modified Peptide Molecules As Potential Modulators of Shelterin Protein Functions; TRF1. Chemistry 2023; 29:e202300970. [PMID: 37332024 DOI: 10.1002/chem.202300970] [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: 03/28/2023] [Revised: 06/02/2023] [Accepted: 06/13/2023] [Indexed: 06/20/2023]
Abstract
In this work, we present studies on relatively new and still not well-explored potential anticancer targets which are shelterin proteins, in particular the TRF1 protein can be blocked by in silico designed "peptidomimetic" molecules. TRF1 interacts directly with the TIN2 protein, and this protein-protein interaction is crucial for the proper functioning of telomere, which could be blocked by our novel modified peptide molecules. Our chemotherapeutic approach is based on assumption that modulation of TRF1-TIN2 interaction may be more harmful for cancer cells as cancer telomeres are more fragile than in normal cells. We have shown in vitro within SPR experiments that our modified peptide PEP1 molecule interacts with TRF1, presumably at the site originally occupied by the TIN2 protein. Disturbance of the shelterin complex by studied molecule may not in short term lead to cytotoxic effects, however blocking TRF1-TIN2 resulted in cellular senescence in cellular breast cancer lines used as a cancer model. Thus, our compounds appeared useful as starting model compounds for precise blockage of TRF proteins.
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Affiliation(s)
- Wioletta Brankiewicz
- Department of Pharmaceutical Technology and Biochemistry, Faculty of Chemistry, Gdansk University of Technology, Narutowicza St 11/12, 80-233, Gdansk, Poland
| | - Umesh Kalathiya
- International Centre for Cancer Vaccine Science, University of Gdansk, ul. Kładki 24, 80-822, Gdańsk, Poland
| | - Monikaben Padariya
- International Centre for Cancer Vaccine Science, University of Gdansk, ul. Kładki 24, 80-822, Gdańsk, Poland
| | - Katarzyna Węgrzyn
- Intercollegiate Faculty of Biotechnology, University of Gdansk, Abrahama 58, 80-307, Gdansk, Poland
| | - Maciej Prusinowski
- Faculty of Chemistry, University of Gdansk, Wita Stwosza 63, 80-308, Gdansk, Poland
| | - Joanna Zebrowska
- Faculty of Chemistry, University of Gdansk, Wita Stwosza 63, 80-308, Gdansk, Poland
| | | | - Piotr Skowron
- Faculty of Chemistry, University of Gdansk, Wita Stwosza 63, 80-308, Gdansk, Poland
| | - Marek Drab
- Unit of Nanostructural Bio-Interactions, Hirszfeld Institute of Immunology and Experimental Therapy, Polish Academy of Sciences, 12 Weigla-Street, 53-114, Wrocław, Poland
| | - Mariusz Szajewski
- Department of Oncological Surgery, Gdynia Oncology Centre, Gdynia, Poland
- Division of Propaedeutics of Oncology, Medical University of Gdańsk, Gdańsk, Poland
| | - Maciej Ciesielski
- Department of Oncological Surgery, Gdynia Oncology Centre, Gdynia, Poland
- Division of Propaedeutics of Oncology, Medical University of Gdańsk, Gdańsk, Poland
| | - Małgorzata Gawrońska
- Faculty of Chemistry, University of Gdansk, Wita Stwosza 63, 80-308, Gdansk, Poland
| | - Anoop Kallingal
- Department of Pharmaceutical Technology and Biochemistry, Faculty of Chemistry, Gdansk University of Technology, Narutowicza St 11/12, 80-233, Gdansk, Poland
| | - Mariusz Makowski
- Faculty of Chemistry, University of Gdansk, Wita Stwosza 63, 80-308, Gdansk, Poland
| | - Maciej Bagiński
- Department of Pharmaceutical Technology and Biochemistry, Faculty of Chemistry, Gdansk University of Technology, Narutowicza St 11/12, 80-233, Gdansk, Poland
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5
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Ali JH, Walter M. Combining old and new concepts in targeting telomerase for cancer therapy: transient, immediate, complete and combinatory attack (TICCA). Cancer Cell Int 2023; 23:197. [PMID: 37679807 PMCID: PMC10483736 DOI: 10.1186/s12935-023-03041-2] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/21/2023] [Accepted: 08/25/2023] [Indexed: 09/09/2023] Open
Abstract
Telomerase can overcome replicative senescence by elongation of telomeres but is also a specific element in most cancer cells. It is expressed more vastly than any other tumor marker. Telomerase as a tumor target inducing replicative immortality can be overcome by only one other mechanism: alternative lengthening of telomeres (ALT). This limits the probability to develop resistance to treatments. Moreover, telomerase inhibition offers some degree of specificity with a low risk of toxicity in normal cells. Nevertheless, only one telomerase antagonist reached late preclinical studies. The underlying causes, the pitfalls of telomerase-based therapies, and future chances based on recent technical advancements are summarized in this review. Based on new findings and approaches, we propose a concept how long-term survival in telomerase-based cancer therapies can be significantly improved: the TICCA (Transient Immediate Complete and Combinatory Attack) strategy.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jaber Haj Ali
- Institute of Laboratory Medicine, Clinical Chemistry and Pathobiochemistry, Charité Universitätsmedizin Berlin, Augustenburger Platz 1, 13353, Berlin, Germany
- Institute of Clinical Chemistry and Laboratory Medicine, Universitätsmedizin Rostock, Ernst-Heydemann-Straße 6, 18057, Rostock, Germany
| | - Michael Walter
- Institute of Clinical Chemistry and Laboratory Medicine, Universitätsmedizin Rostock, Ernst-Heydemann-Straße 6, 18057, Rostock, Germany.
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6
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Sohn EJ, Goralsky JA, Shay JW, Min J. The Molecular Mechanisms and Therapeutic Prospects of Alternative Lengthening of Telomeres (ALT). Cancers (Basel) 2023; 15:cancers15071945. [PMID: 37046606 PMCID: PMC10093677 DOI: 10.3390/cancers15071945] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/23/2023] [Revised: 03/14/2023] [Accepted: 03/15/2023] [Indexed: 04/14/2023] Open
Abstract
As detailed by the end replication problem, the linear ends of a cell's chromosomes, known as telomeres, shorten with each successive round of replication until a cell enters into a state of growth arrest referred to as senescence. To maintain their immortal proliferation capacity, cancer cells must employ a telomere maintenance mechanism, such as telomerase activation or the Alternative Lengthening of Telomeres pathway (ALT). With only 10-15% of cancers utilizing the ALT mechanism, progress towards understanding its molecular components and associated hallmarks has only recently been made. This review analyzes the advances towards understanding the ALT pathway by: (1) detailing the mechanisms associated with engaging the ALT pathway as well as (2) identifying potential therapeutic targets of ALT that may lead to novel cancer therapeutic treatments. Collectively, these studies indicate that the ALT molecular mechanisms involve at least two distinct pathways induced by replication stress and damage at telomeres. We suggest exploiting tumor dependency on ALT is a promising field of study because it suggests new approaches to ALT-specific therapies for cancers with poorer prognosis. While substantial progress has been made in the ALT research field, additional progress will be required to realize these advances into clinical practices to treat ALT cancers and improve patient prognoses.
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Affiliation(s)
- Eric J Sohn
- Institute for Cancer Genetics, Columbia University Irving Medical Center, New York, NY 10032, USA
| | - Julia A Goralsky
- Institute for Cancer Genetics, Columbia University Irving Medical Center, New York, NY 10032, USA
| | - Jerry W Shay
- Department of Cell Biology, University of Texas Southwestern Medical Center, Dallas, TX 75390-9039, USA
| | - Jaewon Min
- Institute for Cancer Genetics, Columbia University Irving Medical Center, New York, NY 10032, USA
- Department of Pathology and Cell Biology, Columbia University Irving Medical Center, New York, NY 10032, USA
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7
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Gao J, Pickett HA. Targeting telomeres: advances in telomere maintenance mechanism-specific cancer therapies. Nat Rev Cancer 2022; 22:515-532. [PMID: 35790854 DOI: 10.1038/s41568-022-00490-1] [Citation(s) in RCA: 70] [Impact Index Per Article: 35.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 05/25/2022] [Indexed: 12/31/2022]
Abstract
Cancer cells establish replicative immortality by activating a telomere-maintenance mechanism (TMM), be it telomerase or the alternative lengthening of telomeres (ALT) pathway. Targeting telomere maintenance represents an intriguing opportunity to treat the vast majority of all cancer types. Whilst telomerase inhibitors have historically been heralded as promising anticancer agents, the reality has been more challenging, and there are currently no therapeutic options for cancer types that use ALT despite their aggressive nature and poor prognosis. In this Review, we discuss the mechanistic differences between telomere maintenance by telomerase and ALT, the current methods used to detect each mechanism, the utility of these tests for clinical diagnosis, and recent developments in the therapeutic strategies being employed to target both telomerase and ALT. We present notable developments in repurposing established therapeutic agents and new avenues that are emerging to target cancer types according to which TMM they employ. These opportunities extend beyond inhibition of telomere maintenance, by finding and exploiting inherent weaknesses in the telomeres themselves to trigger rapid cellular effects that lead to cell death.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jixuan Gao
- Telomere Length Regulation Unit, Children's Medical Research Institute, Faculty of Medicine and Health, University of Sydney, Westmead, NSW, Australia
| | - Hilda A Pickett
- Telomere Length Regulation Unit, Children's Medical Research Institute, Faculty of Medicine and Health, University of Sydney, Westmead, NSW, Australia.
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8
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Vertecchi E, Rizzo A, Salvati E. Telomere Targeting Approaches in Cancer: Beyond Length Maintenance. Int J Mol Sci 2022; 23:ijms23073784. [PMID: 35409143 PMCID: PMC8998427 DOI: 10.3390/ijms23073784] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/04/2022] [Revised: 03/25/2022] [Accepted: 03/26/2022] [Indexed: 12/19/2022] Open
Abstract
Telomeres are crucial structures that preserve genome stability. Their progressive erosion over numerous DNA duplications determines the senescence of cells and organisms. As telomere length homeostasis is critical for cancer development, nowadays, telomere maintenance mechanisms are established targets in cancer treatment. Besides telomere elongation, telomere dysfunction impinges on intracellular signaling pathways, in particular DNA damage signaling and repair, affecting cancer cell survival and proliferation. This review summarizes and discusses recent findings in anticancer drug development targeting different “telosome” components.
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Affiliation(s)
- Eleonora Vertecchi
- Institute of Molecular Biology and Pathology, National Research Council, Rome, Italy, c/o Department of Biology and Biotechnology, Sapienza University of Rome, Via degli Apuli 4, 00185 Rome, Italy;
| | - Angela Rizzo
- Oncogenomic and Epigenetic Unit, IRCCS Regina Elena National Cancer Institute, Via Elio Chianesi 53, 00144 Rome, Italy;
| | - Erica Salvati
- Institute of Molecular Biology and Pathology, National Research Council, Rome, Italy, c/o Department of Biology and Biotechnology, Sapienza University of Rome, Via degli Apuli 4, 00185 Rome, Italy;
- Correspondence:
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9
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Tomassi S, Dimmito MP, Cai M, D’Aniello A, Del Bene A, Messere A, Liu Z, Zhu T, Hruby VJ, Stefanucci A, Cosconati S, Mollica A, Di Maro S. CLIPSing Melanotan-II to Discover Multiple Functionally Selective hMCR Agonists. J Med Chem 2022; 65:4007-4017. [DOI: 10.1021/acs.jmedchem.1c01848] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/29/2023]
Affiliation(s)
- Stefano Tomassi
- Dipartimento di Farmacia, Università degli Studi di Napoli “Federico II”, Via D. Montesano 49, Naples 80131, Italy
| | - Marilisa Pia Dimmito
- Dipartimento di Farmacia, Università di Chieti-Pescara “G. d’Annunzio”, Via dei Vestini 31, Chieti 66100, Italy
| | - Minying Cai
- Department of Chemistry and Biochemistry, University of Arizona, Tucson, Arizona 85721, United States
| | - Antonia D’Aniello
- DiSTABiF, University of Campania “Luigi Vanvitelli”, Via Vivaldi 43, 81100 Caserta, Italy
| | - Alessandra Del Bene
- DiSTABiF, University of Campania “Luigi Vanvitelli”, Via Vivaldi 43, 81100 Caserta, Italy
| | - Anna Messere
- DiSTABiF, University of Campania “Luigi Vanvitelli”, Via Vivaldi 43, 81100 Caserta, Italy
| | - Zekun Liu
- Department of Chemistry and Biochemistry, University of Arizona, Tucson, Arizona 85721, United States
| | - Tingyi Zhu
- Department of Chemistry and Biochemistry, University of Arizona, Tucson, Arizona 85721, United States
| | - Victor J. Hruby
- Department of Chemistry and Biochemistry, University of Arizona, Tucson, Arizona 85721, United States
| | - Azzurra Stefanucci
- Dipartimento di Farmacia, Università di Chieti-Pescara “G. d’Annunzio”, Via dei Vestini 31, Chieti 66100, Italy
| | - Sandro Cosconati
- DiSTABiF, University of Campania “Luigi Vanvitelli”, Via Vivaldi 43, 81100 Caserta, Italy
| | - Adriano Mollica
- Dipartimento di Farmacia, Università di Chieti-Pescara “G. d’Annunzio”, Via dei Vestini 31, Chieti 66100, Italy
| | - Salvatore Di Maro
- DiSTABiF, University of Campania “Luigi Vanvitelli”, Via Vivaldi 43, 81100 Caserta, Italy
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10
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A Novel Screen for Expression Regulators of the Telomeric Protein TRF2 Identified Small Molecules That Impair TRF2 Dependent Immunosuppression and Tumor Growth. Cancers (Basel) 2021; 13:cancers13122998. [PMID: 34203903 PMCID: PMC8232760 DOI: 10.3390/cancers13122998] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/25/2021] [Revised: 06/03/2021] [Accepted: 06/08/2021] [Indexed: 02/08/2023] Open
Abstract
Simple Summary The telomeric protein TRF2 (Telomeric repeat-binding factor 2) is upregulated in human cancers and associated with poor prognosis. TRF2 oncogenic properties rely on its intrinsic telomere protective role, but also on cell extrinsic effects through immunosuppressive and angiogenic activities. Therefore, targeting TRF2 appears as a promising therapeutic anti-cancer strategy. In this study, we developed a cell-based method to screen for TRF2 inhibitors allowing us to identify two compounds that blunt the TRF2 pro-oncogenic properties in vivo. Abstract Telomeric repeat-binding factor 2 (TRF2) is a subunit of the shelterin protein complex, which binds to and protects telomeres from unwanted DNA damage response (DDR) activation. TRF2 expression plays a pivotal role in aging and cancer, being downregulated during cellular senescence and overexpressed during oncogenesis. Cancers overexpressing TRF2 often exhibit a poor prognosis. In cancer cells, TRF2 plays multiple functions, including telomere protection and non-cell autonomous roles, promoting neo-angiogenesis and immunosuppression. We present here an original screening strategy, which enables identification of small molecules that decrease or increase TRF2 expression. By screening a small library of Food and Drug Agency (FDA)-approved drugs, we identified two molecules (AR-A014418 and alexidine·2HCl) that impaired tumor growth, neo-angiogenesis and immunosuppression by downregulating TRF2 expression in a mouse xenograft model. These results support the chemotherapeutic strategy of downregulating TRF2 expression to treat aggressive human tumors and validate this cell-based assay capable of screening for potential anti-cancer and anti-aging molecules by modulating TRF2 expression levels.
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11
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Zhu XH, Sun BF, Luo M, Yu J, Zhang YD, Xu HQ, Luo H. Bloom helicase explicitly unwinds 3'-tailed G4DNA structure in prostate cancer cells. Int J Biol Macromol 2021; 180:578-589. [PMID: 33727188 DOI: 10.1016/j.ijbiomac.2021.03.060] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/19/2020] [Revised: 01/22/2021] [Accepted: 03/11/2021] [Indexed: 10/21/2022]
Abstract
G-quadruplex DNA (G4DNA) structure, which widely exists in the chromosomal telomeric regions and oncogenic promoter regions, plays a pivotal role in extending telomeric DNA with the help of telomerase in human cells. Bloom (BLM) helicase, a crucial member of the family of genome surveillance proteins, plays an essential role in DNA metabolic and repair pathways, including DNA replication, repair, transcription, recombination during chromosome segregation, and assuring telomere stability. The unwinding of G4DNA requires the participation of DNA helicase, which is crucial for maintaining chromosomal stability in cancer cells. Using fluorescence polarization and the electrophoretic mobility shift assay (EMSA), this study aimed to investigate the DNA-binding and unwinding properties of BLM helicase, cloned and purified from prostate cancer cells, toward G4DNA. The results revealed that BLM helicase derived from prostate cancer cells could bind and unwind G4DNA. The molecular affinity of bond between G4DNA and the helicase was dependent on the single-stranded DNA (ssDNA) terminals in G4DNA; the helicase was effectively bound to the G4DNA when the helicase monomer sufficiently covered approximately 10 nucleotides at the 3' or 5' ssDNA tail of G4DNA. For the unwinding of G4DNA, there was an apparent requirement of a 3' ssDNA tail and ATP; a G4DNA with only a 3' ssDNA tail was identified to be the most suitable substrate to be unwound by BLM helicase and required 3' ssDNA tails of at least 10 nt in length for efficient unwinding. Besides, BLM helicase was loosely bound and partly unwound the blunt-ended G4DNA. Although further mechanistic studies are warranted, the experimental results presented in this study are beneficial to further our understanding of the functional implication of BLM helicase in prostate cancer cells.
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Affiliation(s)
- Xu-Hui Zhu
- State Key Laboratory of Functions And Applications of Medicinal Plants, Guizhou Medical University, Guiyang 550014, PR China; Beijing ChaoYang Hospital, Capital Medical University, Beijing 100016, PR China
| | - Bao-Fei Sun
- State Key Laboratory of Functions And Applications of Medicinal Plants, Guizhou Medical University, Guiyang 550014, PR China
| | - Mei Luo
- State Key Laboratory of Functions And Applications of Medicinal Plants, Guizhou Medical University, Guiyang 550014, PR China; The Key Laboratory of Chemistry for Natural Products of Guizhou Province and Chinese Academy of Science, Guiyang 550014, PR China
| | - Jia Yu
- State Key Laboratory of Functions And Applications of Medicinal Plants, Guizhou Medical University, Guiyang 550014, PR China; The Key Laboratory of Chemistry for Natural Products of Guizhou Province and Chinese Academy of Science, Guiyang 550014, PR China
| | | | - Hou-Qiang Xu
- Key Laboratory of Animal Genetics, Breeding and Reproduction in the Plateau Mountainous Region, Ministry of Education, College of Animal Science, Guizhou University, Guiyang 550025, PR China.
| | - Heng Luo
- State Key Laboratory of Functions And Applications of Medicinal Plants, Guizhou Medical University, Guiyang 550014, PR China; The Key Laboratory of Chemistry for Natural Products of Guizhou Province and Chinese Academy of Science, Guiyang 550014, PR China; Key Laboratory of Animal Genetics, Breeding and Reproduction in the Plateau Mountainous Region, Ministry of Education, College of Animal Science, Guizhou University, Guiyang 550025, PR China.
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12
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N-terminal modified cyclopeptidic mimetics of Apollo TBM as inhibitors of TRF2. Bioorg Med Chem Lett 2020; 30:127401. [PMID: 32871539 DOI: 10.1016/j.bmcl.2020.127401] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/16/2020] [Revised: 07/05/2020] [Accepted: 07/07/2020] [Indexed: 11/23/2022]
Abstract
Telomeric repeat binding factor 2 (TRF2) plays an important role in protecting telomeres from being recognized as DNA breaks. TRF2 performs its telomere protecting functions partially by recruiting a number of accessory proteins to telomeres through its TRF homology (TFRH) domain. Identification of small molecular compounds which can bind to the TRFH domain of TRF2 and block the interactions between TRF2 and its associated proteins is crucial for elucidating the molecular mechanisms of these protein-protein interactions. Using a previously identified peptidic mimetic of ApolloTBM as a lead compound, we designed and synthesized a series of novel TRF2 inhibitors by non-peptidic modifications of the N-terminal residues. These compounds can maintain the binding affinities to TRF2 but have much reduced peptidic characteristics compared to the lead compound.
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Srinivas N, Rachakonda S, Kumar R. Telomeres and Telomere Length: A General Overview. Cancers (Basel) 2020; 12:E558. [PMID: 32121056 PMCID: PMC7139734 DOI: 10.3390/cancers12030558] [Citation(s) in RCA: 131] [Impact Index Per Article: 32.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/22/2020] [Revised: 02/24/2020] [Accepted: 02/26/2020] [Indexed: 02/06/2023] Open
Abstract
Telomeres are highly conserved tandem nucleotide repeats that include proximal double-stranded and distal single-stranded regions that in complex with shelterin proteins afford protection at chromosomal ends to maintain genomic integrity. Due to the inherent limitations of DNA replication and telomerase suppression in most somatic cells, telomeres undergo age-dependent incremental attrition. Short or dysfunctional telomeres are recognized as DNA double-stranded breaks, triggering cells to undergo replicative senescence. Telomere shortening, therefore, acts as a counting mechanism that drives replicative senescence by limiting the mitotic potential of cells. Telomere length, a complex hereditary trait, is associated with aging and age-related diseases. Epidemiological data, in general, support an association with varying magnitudes between constitutive telomere length and several disorders, including cancers. Telomere attrition is also influenced by oxidative damage and replicative stress caused by genetic, epigenetic, and environmental factors. Several single nucleotide polymorphisms at different loci, identified through genome-wide association studies, influence inter-individual variation in telomere length. In addition to genetic factors, environmental factors also influence telomere length during growth and development. Telomeres hold potential as biomarkers that reflect the genetic predisposition together with the impact of environmental conditions and as targets for anti-cancer therapies.
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Affiliation(s)
| | | | - Rajiv Kumar
- Division of Functional Genome Analysis, German Cancer Research Center, Im Neunheimer Feld 580, 69120 Heidelberg, Germany; (N.S.); (S.R.)
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Chen Y. The structural biology of the shelterin complex. Biol Chem 2019; 400:457-466. [PMID: 30352022 DOI: 10.1515/hsz-2018-0368] [Citation(s) in RCA: 15] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/10/2018] [Accepted: 10/15/2018] [Indexed: 02/07/2023]
Abstract
The shelterin complex protects telomeric DNA and plays critical roles in maintaining chromosome stability. The structures and functions of the shelterin complex have been extensively explored in the past decades. This review summarizes the current progress on structural studies of shelterin complexes from different species. It focuses on the structural features and assembly of common structural domains, highlighting the evolutionary plasticity and conserved roles of shelterin proteins in telomere homeostasis and protection.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yong Chen
- State Key Laboratory of Molecular Biology, National Center for Protein Science Shanghai, Shanghai Science Research Center, CAS Center for Excellence in Molecular Cell Science, Shanghai Institute of Biochemistry and Cell Biology, Chinese Academy of Sciences, University of Chinese Academy of Sciences, 333 Haike Road, Shanghai 201210, China.,School of Life Science and Technology, Shanghai Tech University, 100 Haike Road, Shanghai 201210, China
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15
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Investigation of the Stereochemical-Dependent DNA and RNA Binding of Arginine-Based Nucleopeptides. Symmetry (Basel) 2019. [DOI: 10.3390/sym11040567] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/28/2022] Open
Abstract
Nucleopeptides represent an intriguing class of nucleic acid analogues, in which nucleobases are placed in a peptide structure. The incorporation of D- and/or L-amino acids in nucleopeptide molecules allows the investigation of the role of backbone stereochemistry in determining the formation of DNA and RNA hybrids. Circular Dichroism (CD) spectroscopic studies indicated the nucleopeptide as having fully l-backbone configuration-formed stable hybrid complexes with RNA molecules. Molecular Dynamics (MD) simulations suggested a potential structure of the complex resulting from the interaction between the l-nucleopeptide and RNA strand. From this study, both the backbone (ionics and H-bonds) and nucleobases (pairing and π-stacking) of the chiral nucleopeptide appeared to be involved in the hybrid complex formation, highlighting the key role of the backbone stereochemistry in the formation of the nucleopeptide/RNA complexes.
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Cacchione S, Biroccio A, Rizzo A. Emerging roles of telomeric chromatin alterations in cancer. J Exp Clin Cancer Res 2019; 38:21. [PMID: 30654820 PMCID: PMC6337846 DOI: 10.1186/s13046-019-1030-5] [Citation(s) in RCA: 26] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/22/2018] [Accepted: 01/07/2019] [Indexed: 12/26/2022] Open
Abstract
Telomeres, the nucleoprotein structures that cap the ends of eukaryotic chromosomes, play important and multiple roles in tumorigenesis. Functional telomeres need the establishment of a protective chromatin structure based on the interplay between the specific complex named shelterin and a tight nucleosomal organization. Telomere shortening in duplicating somatic cells leads eventually to the destabilization of the telomere capping structure and to the activation of a DNA damage response (DDR) signaling. The final outcome of this process is cell replicative senescence, which constitute a protective barrier against unlimited proliferation. Cells that can bypass senescence checkpoint continue to divide until a second replicative checkpoint, crisis, characterized by chromosome fusions and rearrangements leading to massive cell death by apoptosis. During crisis telomere dysfunctions can either inhibit cell replication or favor tumorigenesis by the accumulation of chromosomal rearrangements and neoplastic mutations. The acquirement of a telomere maintenance mechanism allows fixing the aberrant phenotype, and gives the neoplastic cell unlimited replicative potential, one of the main hallmarks of cancer.Despite the crucial role that telomeres play in cancer development, little is known about the epigenetic alterations of telomeric chromatin that affect telomere protection and are associated with tumorigenesis. Here we discuss the current knowledge on the role of telomeric chromatin in neoplastic transformation, with a particular focus on H3.3 mutations in alternative lengthening of telomeres (ALT) cancers and sirtuin deacetylases dysfunctions.
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Affiliation(s)
- Stefano Cacchione
- Department of Biology and Biotechnology "Charles Darwin", Sapienza University of Roma, Piazzale Aldo Moro 5, 00185, Rome, Italy.
| | - Annamaria Biroccio
- Oncogenomic and Epigenetic Unit, IRCCS-Regina Elena National Cancer Institute, Via Elio Chianesi 53, 00144, Rome, Italy
| | - Angela Rizzo
- Oncogenomic and Epigenetic Unit, IRCCS-Regina Elena National Cancer Institute, Via Elio Chianesi 53, 00144, Rome, Italy.
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Telomeres: Implications for Cancer Development. Int J Mol Sci 2018; 19:ijms19010294. [PMID: 29351238 PMCID: PMC5796239 DOI: 10.3390/ijms19010294] [Citation(s) in RCA: 52] [Impact Index Per Article: 8.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/12/2017] [Revised: 01/12/2018] [Accepted: 01/16/2018] [Indexed: 12/31/2022] Open
Abstract
Telomeres facilitate the protection of natural ends of chromosomes from constitutive exposure to the DNA damage response (DDR). This is most likely achieved by a lariat structure that hides the linear telomeric DNA through protein-protein and protein-DNA interactions. The telomere shortening associated with DNA replication in the absence of a compensatory mechanism culminates in unmasked telomeres. Then, the subsequent activation of the DDR will define the fate of cells according to the functionality of cell cycle checkpoints. Dysfunctional telomeres can suppress cancer development by engaging replicative senescence or apoptotic pathways, but they can also promote tumour initiation. Studies in telomere dynamics and karyotype analysis underpin telomere crisis as a key event driving genomic instability. Significant attainment of telomerase or alternative lengthening of telomeres (ALT)-pathway to maintain telomere length may be permissive and required for clonal evolution of genomically-unstable cells during progression to malignancy. We summarise current knowledge of the role of telomeres in the maintenance of chromosomal stability and carcinogenesis.
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Curcusone C induces telomeric DNA-damage response in cancer cells through inhibition of telomeric repeat factor 2. BIOCHIMICA ET BIOPHYSICA ACTA-PROTEINS AND PROTEOMICS 2017; 1865:1372-1382. [PMID: 28870734 DOI: 10.1016/j.bbapap.2017.08.022] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/03/2017] [Revised: 08/28/2017] [Accepted: 08/31/2017] [Indexed: 01/12/2023]
Abstract
Telomeric repeat factor 2 (known as TRF2 or TERF2) is a key component of telomere protection protein complex named as Shelterin. TRF2 helps the folding of telomere to form T-loop structure and the suppression of ATM-dependent DNA damage response activation. TRF2 has been recognized as a potentially new therapeutic target for cancer treatment. In our routine screening of small molecule libraries, we found that Curcusone C had significant effect in disrupting the binding between TRF2 and telomeric DNA, with potent antitumor activity against cancer cells. Our result showed that Curcusone C could bind with TRF2 without binding interaction with TRF1 (telomeric repeat factor 1) although these two proteins share high sequence homology, indicating that their binding conformations and biological functions in telomere could be different. Our mechanistic studies showed that Curcusone C bound with TRF2 possibly through its DNA binding site causing blockage of its interaction with telomeric DNA. Further in cellular studies indicated that the interaction of TRF2 with Curcusone C could activate DNA-damage response, inhibit tumor cell proliferation, and cause cell cycle arrest, resulting in tumor cell apoptosis. Our studies showed that Curcusone C could become a promising lead compound for further development for cancer treatment. Here, TRF2 was firstly identified as a target of Curcusone C. It is likely that the anti-cancer activity of some other terpenes and terpenoids are related with their possible effect for telomere protection proteins.
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Martínez P, Blasco MA. Telomere-driven diseases and telomere-targeting therapies. J Cell Biol 2017; 216:875-887. [PMID: 28254828 PMCID: PMC5379954 DOI: 10.1083/jcb.201610111] [Citation(s) in RCA: 168] [Impact Index Per Article: 24.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/31/2016] [Revised: 01/03/2017] [Accepted: 01/09/2017] [Indexed: 01/19/2023] Open
Abstract
Martínez and Blasco review the molecular mechanisms underlying diseases associated with telomere dysfunction, including telomeropathies, age-related disorders, and cancer. Current and future therapeutic strategies to treat and prevent these diseases, including preclinical development of telomere-targeted therapies using mouse models, are discussed. Telomeres, the protective ends of linear chromosomes, shorten throughout an individual’s lifetime. Telomere shortening is proposed to be a primary molecular cause of aging. Short telomeres block the proliferative capacity of stem cells, affecting their potential to regenerate tissues, and trigger the development of age-associated diseases. Mutations in telomere maintenance genes are associated with pathologies referred to as telomere syndromes, including Hoyeraal-Hreidarsson syndrome, dyskeratosis congenita, pulmonary fibrosis, aplastic anemia, and liver fibrosis. Telomere shortening induces chromosomal instability that, in the absence of functional tumor suppressor genes, can contribute to tumorigenesis. In addition, mutations in telomere length maintenance genes and in shelterin components, the protein complex that protects telomeres, have been found to be associated with different types of cancer. These observations have encouraged the development of therapeutic strategies to treat and prevent telomere-associated diseases, namely aging-related diseases, including cancer. Here we review the molecular mechanisms underlying telomere-driven diseases and highlight recent advances in the preclinical development of telomere-targeted therapies using mouse models.
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Affiliation(s)
- Paula Martínez
- Telomeres and Telomerase Group, Molecular Oncology Program, Spanish National Cancer Centre, Madrid E-28029, Spain
| | - Maria A Blasco
- Telomeres and Telomerase Group, Molecular Oncology Program, Spanish National Cancer Centre, Madrid E-28029, Spain
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Zou BQ, Qin QP, Bai YX, Cao QQ, Zhang Y, Liu YC, Chen ZF, Liang H. Synthesis and antitumor mechanism of a new iron(iii) complex with 5,7-dichloro-2-methyl-8-quinolinol as ligands. MEDCHEMCOMM 2017; 8:633-639. [PMID: 30108780 PMCID: PMC6072324 DOI: 10.1039/c6md00644b] [Citation(s) in RCA: 19] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/20/2016] [Accepted: 01/26/2017] [Indexed: 11/21/2022]
Abstract
A new iron(iii) complex with 5,7-dichloro-2-methyl-8-quinolinol (HClMQ) as ligands, i.e., [Fe(ClMQ)2Cl] (1), was synthesized and evaluated for its anticancer activity. Compared to the HClMQ ligand, complex 1 showed a higher cytotoxicity towards a series of tumor cell lines, including Hep-G2, BEL-7404, NCI-H460, A549, and T-24, with IC50 values in the range of 5.04-14.35 μM. Notably, the Hep-G2 cell line was the most sensitive to complex 1. Mechanistic studies indicated that complex 1 is a telomerase inhibitor targeting c-myc G-quadruplex DNA and can trigger cell apoptosis via inducing cell cycle arrest and DNA damage.
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Affiliation(s)
- Bi-Qun Zou
- State Key Laboratory for Chemistry and Molecular Engineering of Medicinal Resources , School of Chemistry & Pharmaceutical Sciences , Guangxi Normal University , Guilin , Guangxi 541004 , P. R. China . ; ; ; ; Tel: +86 773 2120958
- Department of Chemistry , Guilin Normal College , Guilin , Guangxi 541001 , P. R. China
| | - Qi-Pin Qin
- State Key Laboratory for Chemistry and Molecular Engineering of Medicinal Resources , School of Chemistry & Pharmaceutical Sciences , Guangxi Normal University , Guilin , Guangxi 541004 , P. R. China . ; ; ; ; Tel: +86 773 2120958
| | - Yu-Xia Bai
- State Key Laboratory for Chemistry and Molecular Engineering of Medicinal Resources , School of Chemistry & Pharmaceutical Sciences , Guangxi Normal University , Guilin , Guangxi 541004 , P. R. China . ; ; ; ; Tel: +86 773 2120958
| | - Qian-Qian Cao
- State Key Laboratory for Chemistry and Molecular Engineering of Medicinal Resources , School of Chemistry & Pharmaceutical Sciences , Guangxi Normal University , Guilin , Guangxi 541004 , P. R. China . ; ; ; ; Tel: +86 773 2120958
| | - Ye Zhang
- State Key Laboratory for Chemistry and Molecular Engineering of Medicinal Resources , School of Chemistry & Pharmaceutical Sciences , Guangxi Normal University , Guilin , Guangxi 541004 , P. R. China . ; ; ; ; Tel: +86 773 2120958
- Department of Chemistry , Guilin Normal College , Guilin , Guangxi 541001 , P. R. China
- College of Pharmacy , Guilin Medical University , North Ring 2rd Road 109 , Guilin 541004 , P. R. China
| | - Yan-Cheng Liu
- State Key Laboratory for Chemistry and Molecular Engineering of Medicinal Resources , School of Chemistry & Pharmaceutical Sciences , Guangxi Normal University , Guilin , Guangxi 541004 , P. R. China . ; ; ; ; Tel: +86 773 2120958
| | - Zhen-Feng Chen
- State Key Laboratory for Chemistry and Molecular Engineering of Medicinal Resources , School of Chemistry & Pharmaceutical Sciences , Guangxi Normal University , Guilin , Guangxi 541004 , P. R. China . ; ; ; ; Tel: +86 773 2120958
| | - Hong Liang
- State Key Laboratory for Chemistry and Molecular Engineering of Medicinal Resources , School of Chemistry & Pharmaceutical Sciences , Guangxi Normal University , Guilin , Guangxi 541004 , P. R. China . ; ; ; ; Tel: +86 773 2120958
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Qin QP, Qin JL, Meng T, Lin WH, Zhang CH, Wei ZZ, Chen JN, Liu YC, Liang H, Chen ZF. High in vivo antitumor activity of cobalt oxoisoaporphine complexes by targeting G-quadruplex DNA, telomerase and disrupting mitochondrial functions. Eur J Med Chem 2016; 124:380-392. [DOI: 10.1016/j.ejmech.2016.08.063] [Citation(s) in RCA: 59] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/24/2016] [Revised: 08/25/2016] [Accepted: 08/26/2016] [Indexed: 12/27/2022]
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22
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Fotticchia I, Guarnieri D, Fotticchia T, Falanga AP, Vecchione R, Giancola C, Netti PA. Energetics of ligand-receptor binding affinity on endothelial cells: An in vitro model. Colloids Surf B Biointerfaces 2016; 144:250-256. [DOI: 10.1016/j.colsurfb.2016.04.018] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/21/2015] [Revised: 03/18/2016] [Accepted: 04/07/2016] [Indexed: 01/31/2023]
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Molecular basis and quantitative assessment of TRF1 and TRF2 protein interactions with TIN2 and Apollo peptides. EUROPEAN BIOPHYSICS JOURNAL: EBJ 2016; 46:171-187. [DOI: 10.1007/s00249-016-1157-7] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/26/2016] [Revised: 06/30/2016] [Accepted: 07/09/2016] [Indexed: 10/21/2022]
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Wakefield AE, Wuest WM, Voelz VA. Molecular Simulation of Conformational Pre-Organization in Cyclic RGD Peptides. J Chem Inf Model 2015; 55:806-13. [PMID: 25741627 DOI: 10.1021/ci500768u] [Citation(s) in RCA: 35] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/15/2022]
Abstract
To test the ability of molecular simulations to accurately predict the solution-state conformational properties of peptidomimetics, we examined a test set of 18 cyclic RGD peptides selected from the literature, including the anticancer drug candidate cilengitide, whose favorable binding affinity to integrin has been ascribed to its pre-organization in solution. For each design, we performed all-atom replica-exchange molecular dynamics simulations over several microseconds and compared the results to extensive published NMR data. We find excellent agreement with experimental NOE distance restraints, suggesting that molecular simulation can be a useful tool for the computational design of pre-organized solution-state structure. Moreover, our analysis of conformational populations estimates that, despite the potential for increased flexibility due to backbone amide isomerizaton, N-methylation provides about 0.5 kcal/mol of reduced conformational entropy to cyclic RGD peptides. The combination of pre-organization and binding-site compatibility explains the strong binding affinity of cilengitide to integrin.
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Affiliation(s)
- Amanda E Wakefield
- Department of Chemistry, Temple University, Philadelphia, Pennsylvania 19122, United States
| | - William M Wuest
- Department of Chemistry, Temple University, Philadelphia, Pennsylvania 19122, United States
| | - Vincent A Voelz
- Department of Chemistry, Temple University, Philadelphia, Pennsylvania 19122, United States
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