Nahuoic acid A produced by a Streptomyces sp. isolated from a marine sediment is a selective SAM-competitive inhibitor of the histone methyltransferase SETD8

Beyond the tail: the consequence of context in histone post-translational modification and chromatin research

The role of histone post-translational modifications (PTMs) in chromatin structure and genome function has been the subject of intense debate for more than 60 years. Though complex, the discourse can be summarized in two distinct - and deceptively simple - questions: What is the function of histone PTMs? And how should they be studied? Decades of research show these queries are intricately linked and far from straightforward. Here we provide a historical perspective, highlighting how the arrival of new technologies shaped discovery and insight. Despite their limitations, the tools available at each period had a profound impact on chromatin research, and provided essential clues that advanced our understanding of histone PTM function. Finally, we discuss recent advances in the application of defined nucleosome substrates, the study of multivalent chromatin interactions, and new technologies driving the next era of histone PTM research.

Histone H4K20 monomethylation enables recombinant nucleosome methylation by PRMT1 in vitro

Protein arginine methyltransferases (PRMTs) catalyze the transfer of methyl groups to specific arginine residues of histones and nonhistone proteins. There are nine members in the PRMT family (PRMT1 to PRMT9), and PRMT1 is a dominant member catalyzing majority of arginine methylation in the cell. However, none of the PRMTs is active with recombinant nucleosome as substrate in vitro. Here, we report the discovery of the first in class novel crosstalk between histone H4 lysine 20 (H4K20) monomethylation on nucleosome by SETD8 and histone H4 arginine 3 (H4R3) methylation by PRMT1 in vitro. Full kinetic characterization and mass spectrometry analysis indicated that PRMT1 is only active with recombinant nucleosomes monomethylated at H4K20 by SETD8. These data suggests that the level of activity of PRMT1 could potentially be regulated selectively by SETD8 in various pathways, providing a new approach for discovery of selective regulators of PRMT1 activity.

New diterpene and indole alkaloid analogues from the Streptomyces malaysiensis SCSIO 41397

One new cyclooctatin-type diterpenoid, 15-hydroxyl-cyclooctatin ( 1 ), and one new indole alkaloid, streptoprenylindole D ( 3 ), along with 9 known compounds, were isolated from the Streptomyces   malaysiensis  SCSIO 41397. Their structures were established on the basis of spectroscopic analysis, optical rotation, and by a comparison with data from the literature. All isolated compounds were evaluated for their antibacterial (MRSA), antitumor (22Rv1 and PC-3) and antiviral (HSV-1/2) activities. According to the analysis of biological gene clusters in the whole genome, we preliminarily locate the gene clusters related to the synthesis of 15-hydroxyl-cyclooctatin ( 1 ).

Chemical biology and pharmacology of histone lysine methylation inhibitors

Histone lysine methylation is a post-translational modification that plays a key role in the epigenetic regulation of a broad spectrum of biological processes. Moreover, the dysregulation of histone lysine methyltransferases (KMTs) has been implicated in the pathogenesis of several diseases particularly cancer. Due to their pathobiological importance, KMTs have garnered immense attention over the last decade as attractive therapeutic targets. These endeavors have culminated in tens of chemical probes that have been used to interrogate many aspects of histone lysine methylation. Besides, over a dozen inhibitors have been advanced to clinical trials, including the EZH2 inhibitor tazemetostat approved for the treatment of follicular lymphoma and advanced epithelioid sarcoma. In this Review, we highlight the chemical biology and pharmacology of KMT inhibitors and targeted protein degraders focusing on the clinical development of EZH1/2, DOT1L, Menin-MLL, and WDR5-MLL inhibitors. We also briefly discuss the pharmacologic targeting of other KMTs.

Lysine methyltransferase inhibitors: where we are now

Protein lysine methyltransferases constitute a large family of epigenetic writers that catalyse the transfer of a methyl group from the cofactor S-adenosyl-l-methionine to histone- and non-histone-specific substrates. Alterations in the expression and activity of these proteins have been linked to the genesis and progress of several diseases, including cancer, neurological disorders, and growing defects, hence they represent interesting targets for new therapeutic approaches. Over the past two decades, the identification of modulators of lysine methyltransferases has increased tremendously, clarifying the role of these proteins in different physio-pathological states. The aim of this review is to furnish an updated outlook about the protein lysine methyltransferases disclosed modulators, reporting their potency, their mechanism of action and their eventual use in clinical and preclinical studies.

A Novel Approach for Fast Screening of a Complex Cyanobacterial Extract for Immunomodulatory Properties and Antibacterial Activity

The filamentous cyanobacteria from genus Phormidium are rich natural sources of bioactive compounds that could be exploited as pharmaceuticals or nutraceuticals. In this study, we suggest a novel approach for assessing the immunomodulatory properties of the products derived from cyanobacteria. The influence of Phormidium papyraceum extract on the human leukocyte immunophenotype was evaluated by attempting to link this activity to certain putative compounds identified in the extract. By using three staining panels and flow cytometry, we found that the cyanobacterial extract affected mainly CD4+ T cells upregulating activated CD4+CD152+ T cells (15.75 ± 1.93% treated vs. 4.65 ± 1.41% control) and regulatory CD4+CD25+ T cells (5.36 ± 0.64% treated vs. 1.03 ± 0.08% control). Furthermore, P. papyraceum extract can modulate T cell subpopulations with a CD4+ effector/memory phenotype. Extract-treated cells showed increased production of IL-2 (55 ± 12 pg/mL) and IL-6 (493 ± 64 pg/mL) compared to the untreated, 21 ± 7 pg/mL and 250 ± 39 pg/mL, respectively. No significant changes were observed in the secretion of TNF-α. In addition, P. papyraceum extract displayed antibacterial activity against both Gram-negative (inhibition zone from 18.25 ± 0.50 mm to 20.28 ± 1.50 mm) and Gram-positive (inhibition zone from 10.86 ± 0.85 mm to 17.00 ± 0.82 mm) bacteria. The chemical profile of the cyanobacterial extract was determined using LC–ESI–MS/MS analysis, where at least 112 putative compounds were detected. Many of these compounds have proven different biological activities. We speculated that compounds such as betulin and the macrolide azithromycin (or their analogues) could be responsible for the immunomodulatory potential of the investigated extract. More studies are needed to determine and validate the biological activities of the determined putative compounds.

Cytotoxic compounds from marine actinomycetes: Sources, Structures and Bioactivity

Marine actinomycetes produce a substantial number of natural products with cytotoxic activity. The strains of actinomycetes were isolated from different sources like fishes, coral, sponges, seaweeds, mangroves, sediments etc. These cytotoxic compounds can be categorized briefly into four classes: polyketides, non-ribosomal peptides and hybrids, isoprenoids and hybrids, and others, among which majority are polyketides (146). Twenty two out of the 254 compounds showed potent cytotoxicity with IC₅₀ values at ng/mL or nM level. This review highlights the sources, structures and antitumor activity of 254 natural products isolated from marine actinomycetes, which were new when they were reported from 1989 to 2020.

Skipped dienes in natural product synthesis

Covering: 2000-2020The 1,4-diene motif, also known as a skipped diene, is widespread across various classes of natural products including alkaloids, fatty acids, terpenoids, and polyketides as part of either the finalized structure or a biosynthetic intermediate. The prevalence of this nonconjugated diene system in nature has resulted in numerous encounters in the total synthesis literature. However, skipped dienes have not been extensively reviewed, which could be attributed to overshadowing by the more recognized 1,3-diene system. In this review, we aim to highlight the relevance of skipped dienes in natural products through the lens of total synthesis. Subjects that will be covered include nomenclature, structural properties, prevalence in natural products, synthetic strategies and the future direction of the field.

Total synthesis of nahuoic acid A via a putative biogenetic intramolecular Diels-Alder (IMDA) reaction

Inspired by the biogenetic proposal of an intramolecular Diels–Alder (IMDA) cycloaddition, the total synthesis of natural product nahuoic acid A, a cofactor-competitive inhibitor of the epigenetic enzyme lysine methyl transferase SETD8, has been carried out. A non-conjugated pentaenal precursor was synthesized with high levels of stereoselectivity at seven stereogenic centers and with the appropriate control of double bond geometries. Although the IMDA reaction of the non-conjugated pentaenal using Me₂AlCl for catalysis at −40 °C selectively afforded the trans-fused diastereomer corresponding to the Re-endo mode of cycloaddition, under thermal reaction conditions it gave rise to a mixture of diastereomers, that preferentially formed through the exo mode, including the cis-fused angularly-methylated octahydronaphthalene diastereomer precursor of nahuoic acid A. The natural product could be obtained upon oxidation and overall deprotection of the hydroxyl groups present in the Si-exo IMDA diastereomer.

The total synthesis of natural product nahuoic acid A, a cofactor-competitive inhibitor of the epigenetic enzyme lysine methyl transferase SETD8, has been carried out based on the biogenetic proposal of an intramolecular Diels–Alder (IMDA) cycloaddition.

Post-Translational Modifications of PCNA in Control of DNA Synthesis and DNA Damage Tolerance-the Implications in Carcinogenesis

The faithful DNA replication is a critical event for cell survival and inheritance. However, exogenous or endogenous sources of damage challenge the accurate synthesis of DNA, which causes DNA lesions. The DNA lesions are obstacles for replication fork progression. However, the prolonged replication fork stalling leads to replication fork collapse, which may cause DNA double-strand breaks (DSB). In order to maintain genomic stability, eukaryotic cells evolve translesion synthesis (TLS) and template switching (TS) to resolve the replication stalling. Proliferating cell nuclear antigen (PCNA) trimer acts as a slide clamp and encircles DNA to orchestrate DNA synthesis and DNA damage tolerance (DDT). The post-translational modifications (PTMs) of PCNA regulate these functions to ensure the appropriate initiation and termination of replication and DDT. The aberrant regulation of PCNA PTMs will result in DSB, which causes mutagenesis and poor response to chemotherapy. Here, we review the roles of the PCNA PTMs in DNA duplication and DDT. We propose that clarifying the regulation of PCNA PTMs may provide insights into understanding the development of cancers.

Insights into the Variation in Bioactivities of Closely Related Streptomyces Strains from Marine Sediments of the Visayan Sea against ESKAPE and Ovarian Cancer

Marine sediments host diverse actinomycetes that serve as a source of new natural products to combat infectious diseases and cancer. Here, we report the biodiversity, bioactivities against ESKAPE pathogens (Enterococcus faecium, Staphylococcus aureus, Klebsiella pneumoniae, Acinetobacter baumannii, Pseudomonas aeruginosa, and Enterobacter spp.) and ovarian cancer, and metabolites variation among culturable actinomycetes isolated from the marine sediments of Visayan Sea, Philippines. We identified 15 Streptomyces species based on a 16S rRNA gene sequence analysis. The crude extracts of 10 Streptomyces species have inhibited the growth of ESKAPE pathogens with minimum inhibitory concentration (MIC) values ranging from 0.312 mg/mL to 20 mg/mL depending on the strain and pathogens targeted. Additionally, ten crude extracts have antiproliferative activity against A2780 human ovarian carcinoma at 2 mg/mL. To highlight, we observed that four phylogenetically identical Streptomyces albogriseolus strains demonstrated variation in antibiotic and anticancer activities. These strains harbored type I and II polyketide synthase (PKS) and non-ribosomal synthetase (NRPS) genes in their genomes, implying that their bioactivity is independent of the polymerase chain reaction (PCR)-detected bio-synthetic gene clusters (BGCs) in this study. Metabolite profiling revealed that the taxonomically identical strains produced core and strain-specific metabolites. Thus, the chemical diversity among these strains influences the variation observed in their biological activities. This study expanded our knowledge on the potential of marine-derived Streptomyces residing from the unexplored regions of the Visayan Sea as a source of small molecules against ESKAPE pathogens and cancer. It also highlights that Streptomyces species strains produce unique strain-specific secondary metabolites; thus, offering new chemical space for natural product discovery.

Histone lysine methyltransferase SET8 is a novel therapeutic target for cancer treatment

SET8 is the only lysine methyltransferase that can specifically monomethylate the histone H4K20. SET8-mediated protein modifications are largely involved in the regulation of cell cycle, DNA repair, gene transcription, cell apoptosis, and other vital physiological processes. The aberrant expression of SET8 is closely linked to the proliferation, invasion, metastasis, and prognosis of a variety of cancers. As a consequence, targeting SET8 could be an appealing strategy for cancer therapy. In this article, we introduce the molecular structure of SET8, followed by summarizing its roles in various biological pathways. Crucially, we highlight the potential functions of SET8 in tumors, as well as progress in the development of SET inhibitors for cancer treatment.

Targeting Epigenetic Regulators with Covalent Small-Molecule Inhibitors

Epigenetic regulation of gene expression plays a critical role in various physiological processes, and epigenetic dysregulation is implicated in a number of diseases, prominently including cancer. Epigenetic regulators have been validated as potential therapeutic targets, and significant progress has been made in the discovery and development of epigenetic-based inhibitors. However, successful epigenetic drug discovery is still facing challenges, including moderate selectivity, limited efficacy, and acquired drug resistance. Inspired by the advantages of covalent small-molecule inhibitors, targeted covalent inhibition has attracted increasing interest in epigenetic drug discovery. In this review, we comprehensively summarize the structure-based design and characterization of covalent inhibitors targeting epigenetic writers, readers, and erasers and highlight their potential benefits in enhancing selectivity across the enzyme family and improving in vivo efficacy. We also discuss the challenges and opportunities of covalent small-molecule inhibitors and hope to shed light on future epigenetic drug discovery.

The Chromatin Response to Double-Strand DNA Breaks and Their Repair

Cellular DNA is constantly being damaged by numerous internal and external mutagenic factors. Probably the most severe type of insults DNA could suffer are the double-strand DNA breaks (DSBs). They sever both DNA strands and compromise genomic stability, causing deleterious chromosomal aberrations that are implicated in numerous maladies, including cancer. Not surprisingly, cells have evolved several DSB repair pathways encompassing hundreds of different DNA repair proteins to cope with this challenge. In eukaryotic cells, DSB repair is fulfilled in the immensely complex environment of the chromatin. The chromatin is not just a passive background that accommodates the multitude of DNA repair proteins, but it is a highly dynamic and active participant in the repair process. Chromatin alterations, such as changing patterns of histone modifications shaped by numerous histone-modifying enzymes and chromatin remodeling, are pivotal for proficient DSB repair. Dynamic chromatin changes ensure accessibility to the damaged region, recruit DNA repair proteins, and regulate their association and activity, contributing to DSB repair pathway choice and coordination. Given the paramount importance of DSB repair in tumorigenesis and cancer progression, DSB repair has turned into an attractive target for the development of novel anticancer therapies, some of which have already entered the clinic.

Biologically active marine natural products and their molecular targets discovered using a chemical genetics approach

Covering: 2000 to 2019The discovery of new natural products that have some combination of unprecedented chemical structures, biological activities of therapeutic interest for urgent medical needs, and new molecular targets provides the fuel that sustains the vitality of natural products chemistry research. Unfortunately, finding these important new compounds is neither routine or trivial and a major challenge is finding effective discovery paradigms. This review presents examples that illustrate the effectiveness of a chemical genetics approach to marine natural product (MNP) discovery that intertwines compound discovery, molecular target identification, and phenotypic response/biological activity. The examples include MNPs that have complex unprecedented structures, new or understudied molecular targets, and potent biological activities of therapeutic interest. A variety of methods to identify molecular targets are also featured.

Epigenetic drug discovery: a success story for cofactor interference

Within the past two decades, seven epigenetic drugs have received regulatory approval and numerous other candidates are currently in clinical trials. Among the epigenetic targets are the writer and eraser enzymes that are, respectively, responsible for the reversible introduction and removal of structural modifications in the nucleosome. This review discusses the progress achieved in the design and development of inhibitors against the key writer and eraser pairs: DNA methyltransferases and Tet demethylases; lysine/arginine methyltransferases and lysine demethylases; and histone acetyltransferases and histone deacetylases. A common theme for the successful inhibition of these enzymes in a potent and selective manner is the targeting of the cofactors present in the active site, namely zinc and iron cations, S-adenosylmethione, nicotinamide adenine dinucleotide, flavin adenine dinucleotide and acetyl Coenzyme A.This article is part of a discussion meeting issue 'Frontiers in epigenetic chemical biology'.

Histone methyl transferases: A class of epigenetic opportunities to counter uncontrolled cell proliferation

With each newly disclosed resistance mechanism, management of cancer with previously established targets have become a "failure" oriented approach. Molecular targets such as kinases did initially provide a ray of hope against cancer but with decades of struggle between novel therapeutic agents and more sophisticated resistance mechanisms, they seem to have saturated as anti-cancer targets. Now, with more exhaustive molecular recognition techniques and approaches, epigenetic targets have accessed the centre stage as anti-cancer targets. Accordingly, several classes of epigenetic enzymes are being studied for this role and histone methyltransferases form one such class. They include a class of epigenetic enzymes which transfer methyl group from histone proteins and maintain genetic homeostasis. In cancer, several reports have deduced upregulation of different members of this family according to the tumor environment, establishing them as one of the novel anti-cancer targets. This compilation provides an updated information on several members of histone methyltransferases family as epigenetic targets for developing novel anti-cancer agents.

Natural Products and Chemical Biology Tools: Alternatives to Target Epigenetic Mechanisms in Cancers

DNA methylation and histone acetylation are widely studied epigenetic modifications. They are involved in numerous pathologies such as cancer, neurological disease, inflammation, obesity, etc. Since the discovery of the epigenome, numerous compounds have been developed to reverse DNA methylation and histone acetylation aberrant profile in diseases. Among them several were inspired by Nature and have a great interest as therapeutic molecules. In the quest of finding new ways to target epigenetic mechanisms, the use of chemical tools is a powerful strategy to better understand epigenetic mechanisms in biological systems. In this review we will present natural products reported as DNMT or HDAC inhibitors for anticancer treatments. We will then discuss the use of chemical tools that have been used in order to explore the epigenome.

Epigenetic tools (The Writers, The Readers and The Erasers) and their implications in cancer therapy

Addition of chemical tags on the DNA and modification of histone proteins impart a distinct feature on chromatin architecture. With the advancement in scientific research, the key players underlying these changes have been identified as epigenetic modifiers of the chromatin. Indeed, the plethora of enzymes catalyzing these modifications, portray the diversity of epigenetic space and the intricacy in regulating gene expression. These epigenetic players are categorized as writers: that introduce various chemical modifications on DNA and histones, readers: the specialized domain containing proteins that identify and interpret those modifications and erasers: the dedicated group of enzymes proficient in removing these chemical tags. Research over the past few decades has established that these epigenetic tools are associated with numerous disease conditions especially cancer. Besides, with the involvement of epigenetics in cancer, these enzymes and protein domains provide new targets for cancer drug development. This is certain from the volume of epigenetic research conducted in universities and R&D sector of pharmaceutical industry. Here we have highlighted the different types of epigenetic enzymes and protein domains with an emphasis on methylation and acetylation. This review also deals with the recent developments in small molecule inhibitors as potential anti-cancer drugs targeting the epigenetic space.

Identification of Novel HIV-1 Latency-Reversing Agents from a Library of Marine Natural Products

Natural products originating from marine and plant materials are a rich source of chemical diversity and unique antimicrobials. Using an established in vitro model of HIV-1 latency, we screened 257 pure compounds from a marine natural product library and identified 4 (psammaplin A, aplysiatoxin, debromoaplysiatoxin, and previously-described alotaketal C) that induced expression of latent HIV-1 provirus in both cell line and primary cell models. Notably, aplysiatoxin induced similar levels of HIV-1 expression as prostratin but at up to 900-fold lower concentrations and without substantial effects on cell viability. Psammaplin A enhanced HIV-1 expression synergistically when treated in combination with the protein kinase C (PKC) activator prostratin, but not the histone deacetylase inhibitor (HDACi) panobinostat, suggesting that psammaplin A functions as a latency-reversing agent (LRA) of the HDACi class. Conversely, aplysiatoxin and debromoaplysiatoxin synergized with panobinostat but not prostratin, suggesting that they function as PKC activators. Our study identifies new compounds from previously untested marine natural products and adds to the repertoire of LRAs that can inform therapeutic “shock-and-kill”-based strategies to eliminate latent HIV-infected reservoirs.

Clinically Applicable Inhibitors Impacting Genome Stability

Advances in technology have facilitated the molecular profiling (genomic and transcriptomic) of tumours, and has led to improved stratification of patients and the individualisation of treatment regimes. To fully realize the potential of truly personalised treatment options, we need targeted therapies that precisely disrupt the compensatory pathways identified by profiling which allow tumours to survive or gain resistance to treatments. Here, we discuss recent advances in novel therapies that impact the genome (chromosomes and chromatin), pathways targeted and the stage of the pathways targeted. The current state of research will be discussed, with a focus on compounds that have advanced into trials (clinical and pre-clinical). We will discuss inhibitors of specific DNA damage responses and other genome stability pathways, including those in development, which are likely to synergistically combine with current therapeutic options. Tumour profiling data, combined with the knowledge of new treatments that affect the regulation of essential tumour signalling pathways, is revealing fundamental insights into cancer progression and resistance mechanisms. This is the forefront of the next evolution of advanced oncology medicine that will ultimately lead to improved survival and may, one day, result in many cancers becoming chronic conditions, rather than fatal diseases.

Synthesis of the octahydronaphthalene core of nahuoic acid A via a B(C6F5)3-catalyzed intramolecular Diels-Alder (IMDA) reaction

Model tetraenal 9b underwent intramolecular Diels-Alder cycloaddition in CH₂Cl₂ at -10 °C under catalysis by the bulky Lewis acid B(C₆F₅)₃ to deliver as major components the cis-fused angularly-methylated octahydronaphthalene products, which are formed through the alternative exo orientations of the reacting moieties. One of these diastereomers features the relative and absolute configuration present in the core of nahuoic acid A, a natural product that acts as a cofactor-competitive inhibitor of the lysine methyl transferase SETD8. By contrast, catalysis of the reaction by Me₂AlCl at -40 °C selectively afforded the trans-fused isomer resulting from the Re-endo orientation.

Marine natural products

Covering: 2016. Previous review: Nat. Prod. Rep., 2017, 34, 235-294This review covers the literature published in 2016 for marine natural products (MNPs), with 757 citations (643 for the period January to December 2016) referring to compounds isolated from marine microorganisms and phytoplankton, green, brown and red algae, sponges, cnidarians, bryozoans, molluscs, tunicates, echinoderms, mangroves and other intertidal plants and microorganisms. The emphasis is on new compounds (1277 in 432 papers for 2016), together with the relevant biological activities, source organisms and country of origin. Reviews, biosynthetic studies, first syntheses, and syntheses that led to the revision of structures or stereochemistries, have been included.

Total Synthesis of (-)-Nahuoic Acid Ci (Bii)

A convergent total synthesis of (-)-nahuoic acid Ci(Bii) (3), a novel cis-decalin polyketide, has been achieved. Key synthetic transformations include Type II Anion Relay Chemistry (ARC) to construct the polyol chain, a Ti-catalyzed asymmetric Diels-Alder reaction to generate the cis-decalin skeleton, and a late-stage large fragment union exploiting a Micalizio alkoxide-directed alkyne-alkene coupling tactic.

Marine Pharmacology in 2012-2013: Marine Compounds with Antibacterial, Antidiabetic, Antifungal, Anti-Inflammatory, Antiprotozoal, Antituberculosis, and Antiviral Activities; Affecting the Immune and Nervous Systems, and Other Miscellaneous Mechanisms of Action

The peer-reviewed marine pharmacology literature from 2012 to 2013 was systematically reviewed, consistent with the 1998–2011 reviews of this series. Marine pharmacology research from 2012 to 2013, conducted by scientists from 42 countries in addition to the United States, reported findings on the preclinical pharmacology of 257 marine compounds. The preclinical pharmacology of compounds isolated from marine organisms revealed antibacterial, antifungal, antiprotozoal, antituberculosis, antiviral and anthelmitic pharmacological activities for 113 marine natural products. In addition, 75 marine compounds were reported to have antidiabetic and anti-inflammatory activities and affect the immune and nervous system. Finally, 69 marine compounds were shown to display miscellaneous mechanisms of action which could contribute to novel pharmacological classes. Thus, in 2012–2013, the preclinical marine natural product pharmacology pipeline provided novel pharmacology and lead compounds to the clinical marine pharmaceutical pipeline, and contributed significantly to potentially novel therapeutic approaches to several global disease categories.

Recent progress in developing selective inhibitors of protein methyltransferases

Mounting evidence suggests that protein methyltransferases (PMTs), which catalyze methylation of histones as well as non-histone proteins, play a crucial role in diverse biological pathways and human diseases. In particular, PMTs have been recognized as major players in regulating gene expression and chromatin state. There has been an increasingly growing interest in these enzymes as potential therapeutic targets and over the past two years tremendous progress has been made in the discovery of selective, small molecule inhibitors of protein lysine and arginine methyltransferases. Inhibitors of PMTs have been used extensively in oncology studies as tool compounds, and inhibitors of EZH2, DOT1L and PRMT5 are currently in clinical trials.

Inhibitors of Protein Methyltransferases and Demethylases

Post-translational modifications of histones by protein methyltransferases (PMTs) and histone demethylases (KDMs) play an important role in the regulation of gene expression and transcription and are implicated in cancer and many other diseases. Many of these enzymes also target various nonhistone proteins impacting numerous crucial biological pathways. Given their key biological functions and implications in human diseases, there has been a growing interest in assessing these enzymes as potential therapeutic targets. Consequently, discovering and developing inhibitors of these enzymes has become a very active and fast-growing research area over the past decade. In this review, we cover the discovery, characterization, and biological application of inhibitors of PMTs and KDMs with emphasis on key advancements in the field. We also discuss challenges, opportunities, and future directions in this emerging, exciting research field.

Turning a Substrate Peptide into a Potent Inhibitor for the Histone Methyltransferase SETD8

SETD8 is a histone H4-K20 methyltransferase that plays an essential role in the maintenance of genomic integrity during mitosis and in DNA damage repair, making it an intriguing target for cancer research. While some small molecule inhibitors for SETD8 have been reported, the structural binding modes for these inhibitors have not been revealed. Using the complex structure of the substrate peptide bound to SETD8 as a starting point, different natural and unnatural amino acid substitutions were tested, and a potent (K_i 50 nM, IC₅₀ 0.33 μM) and selective norleucine containing peptide inhibitor has been obtained.

Structure-Based Design of a Covalent Inhibitor of the SET Domain-Containing Protein 8 (SETD8) Lysine Methyltransferase

Selective inhibitors of protein lysine methyltransferases, including SET domain-containing protein 8 (SETD8), are highly desired, as only a fraction of these enzymes are associated with high-quality inhibitors. From our previously discovered SETD8 inhibitor, we developed a more potent analog and solved a cocrystal structure, which is the first crystal structure of SETD8 in complex with a small-molecule inhibitor. This cocrystal structure allowed the design of a covalent inhibitor of SETD8 (MS453), which specifically modifies a cysteine residue near the inhibitor binding site, has an IC₅₀ value of 804 nM, reacts with SETD8 with near-quantitative yield, and is selective for SETD8 against 28 other methyltransferases. We also solved the crystal structure of the covalent inhibitor in complex with SETD8. This work provides atomic-level perspective on the inhibition of SETD8 by small molecules and will help identify high-quality chemical probes of SETD8.

The emerging role of lysine methyltransferase SETD8 in human diseases

SETD8/SET8/Pr-SET7/KMT5A is the only known lysine methyltransferase (KMT) that monomethylates lysine 20 of histone H4 (H4K20) in vivo. Lysine residues of non-histone proteins including proliferating cell nuclear antigen (PCNA) and p53 are also monomethylated. As a consequence, the methyltransferase activity of the enzyme is implicated in many essential cellular processes including DNA replication, DNA damage response, transcription modulation, and cell cycle regulation. This review aims to provide an overview of the roles of SETD8 in physiological and pathological pathways and to discuss the progress made to date in inhibiting the activity of SETD8 by small molecules, with an emphasis on their discovery, selectivity over other methyltransferases and cellular activity.

Design, synthesis, and protein methyltransferase activity of a unique set of constrained amine containing compounds

Epigenetic alterations relate to various human diseases, and developing inhibitors of Kme regulatory proteins is considered to be a new frontier for drug discovery. We were inspired by the known multicyclic ligands, UNC669 and UNC926, which are the first reported small molecule ligands for a methyl-lysine binding domain. We hypothesized that reducing the conformational flexibility of the key amine moiety of UNC669 would result in a unique set of ligands. Twenty-five novel compounds containing a fused bi- or tricyclic amine or a spirocyclic amine were designed and synthesized. To gauge the potential of these amine-containing compounds to interact with Kme regulatory proteins, the compounds were screened against a panel of 24 protein methyltransferases. Compound 13 was discovered as a novel scaffold that interacts with SETD8 and could serve as a starting point for the future development of PKMT inhibitors.

Progress in the Development of Lysine Methyltransferase SETD8 Inhibitors

SETD8/SET8/Pr-SET7/KMT5A is the only known lysine methyltransferase that monomethylates lysine 20 of histone H4 (H4K20) in vivo. The methyltransferase activity of SETD8 has been implicated in many essential cellular processes, including DNA replication, DNA damage response, transcription modulation, and cell cycle regulation. In addition to H4K20, SETD8 monomethylates non-histone substrates including proliferating cell nuclear antigen and p53. During the past decade, different structural classes of inhibitors targeting various lysine methyltransferases have been designed and developed. However, the development of SETD8 inhibitors is still in its infancy. This review covers the progress made to date in inhibiting the activity of SETD8 by small molecules, with an emphasis on their discovery, selectivity over other methyltransferases, and cellular activity.

The Use of Nucleosome Substrates Improves Binding of SAM Analogs to SETD8

SETD8 is the methyltransferase responsible for monomethylation of lysine at position 20 of the N-terminus of histone H4 (H4K20). This activity has been implicated in both DNA damage and cell cycle progression. Existing biochemical assays have utilized truncated enzymes containing the SET domain of SETD8 and peptide substrates. In this report, we present the development of a mechanistically balanced biochemical assay using full-length SETD8 and a recombinant nucleosome substrate. This improves the binding of SAM, SAH, and sinefungin by up to 10,000-fold. A small collection of inhibitors structurally related to SAM were screened and 40 compounds were identified that only inhibit SETD8 when a nucleosome substrate is used.

Structures of Nahuoic Acids B-E Produced in Culture by a Streptomyces sp. Isolated from a Marine Sediment and Evidence for the Inhibition of the Histone Methyl Transferase SETD8 in Human Cancer Cells by Nahuoic Acid A

Nahuoic acids A-E (1-5) have been isolated from laboratory cultures of a Streptomyces sp. obtained from a tropical marine sediment. The structures of the new polyketides 2-5 were elucidated by analysis of spectroscopic data of the natural products and the chemical derivatives 6 and 7. Nahuoic acids 1-5 are in vitro inhibitors of the histone methyltransferase SETD8, and nahuoic acid A (1) and its pentaacetate derivative 8 inhibit the proliferation of several cancer cells lines in vitro with modest potency. At the IC50 for cancer cell proliferation, nahuoic acid A (1) showed selective inhibition of SETD8 in U2OS osteosarcoma cells that reflect its selectivity against a panel of pure histone methyl transferases. A cell cycle analysis revealed that the cellular toxicity of nahuoic acid A (1) is likely linked to its ability to inhibit SETD8 activity.

Nahuoic Acids B-E, Polyhydroxy Polyketides from the Marine-Derived Streptomyces sp. SCSGAA 0027

Four new polyol polyketides containing a decalin ring, nahuoic acids B-E (1-4), together with a known analogue, nahuoic acid A (5), possessing an unprecedented carbon skeleton, were isolated from a culture broth of the marine-derived Streptomyces sp. SCSGAA 0027. Their structures were determined by detailed analysis of spectroscopic data and chemical transformations including acetonide formation and Mosher's ester method. Compounds 1-5 showed weak antibiofilm activity against Shewanella onedensis MR-1 biofilm. This is the first series of analogues of the novel selective SETD8 inhibitor nahuoic acid A.

Marine natural products

This review covers the literature published in 2013 for marine natural products (MNPs), with 982 citations (644 for the period January to December 2013) referring to compounds isolated from marine microorganisms and phytoplankton, green, brown and red algae, sponges, cnidarians, bryozoans, molluscs, tunicates, echinoderms, mangroves and other intertidal plants and microorganisms. The emphasis is on new compounds (1163 for 2013), together with the relevant biological activities, source organisms and country of origin. Reviews, biosynthetic studies, first syntheses, and syntheses that lead to the revision of structures or stereochemistries, have been included.

Synthesis of lysine methyltransferase inhibitors

Lysine methyltransferase which catalyze methylation of histone and non-histone proteins, play a crucial role in diverse biological processes and has emerged as a promising target for the development of various human diseases, including cancer, inflammation, and psychiatric disorders. However, inhibiting lysine methyltransferases selectively has presented many challenges to medicinal chemists. During the past decade, lysine methyltransferase inhibitors covering many different structural classes have been designed and developed. In this review, we describe the development of selective, small-molecule inhibitors of lysine methyltransferases with an emphasis on their discovery and chemical synthesis. We highlight the current state of lysine methyltransferase inhibitors and discuss future directions and opportunities for lysine methyltransferase inhibitor discovery.

Natural products containing 'decalin' motif in microorganisms

Microorganisms are well-known producers of a wide variety of bioactive compounds that are utilized not only for their primary metabolism but also for other purposes such as defense, detoxification, or communication with other micro- and macro-organisms. Natural products containing a 'decalin ring' occur often in microorganisms. They exhibit diverse and remarkable biological activities, including antifungal, antibacterial, anticancer and immunosuppressive activities, to name a few. This review surveys the natural decalin-type compounds that have been isolated from microorganisms, with emphasis on both chemical and biological implications. Total syntheses of some important decalin moiety-containing natural products are also highlighted.

Selective inhibitors of protein methyltransferases

Mounting evidence suggests that protein methyltransferases (PMTs), which catalyze methylation of histone and nonhistone proteins, play a crucial role in diverse biological processes and human diseases. In particular, PMTs have been recognized as major players in regulating gene expression and chromatin state. PMTs are divided into two categories: protein lysine methyltransferases (PKMTs) and protein arginine methyltransferases (PRMTs). There has been a steadily growing interest in these enzymes as potential therapeutic targets and therefore discovery of PMT inhibitors has also been pursued increasingly over the past decade. Here, we present a perspective on selective, small-molecule inhibitors of PMTs with an emphasis on their discovery, characterization, and applicability as chemical tools for deciphering the target PMTs' physiological functions and involvement in human diseases. We highlight the current state of PMT inhibitors and discuss future directions and opportunities for PMT inhibitor discovery.

Small-molecule inhibitors of SETD8 with cellular activity

SETD8/SET8/Pr-SET7/KMT5A is the sole protein lysine methyltransferase (PKMT) known to monomethylate lysine 20 of histone H4 in vivo. SETD8’s methyltransferase activity has been implicated in many essential cellular processes including DNA replication, DNA damage response, transcription modulation, and cell cycle regulation. Developing SETD8 inhibitors with cellular activity is a key step toward elucidating the diverse roles of SETD8 via convenient pharmacological perturbation. From the hits of a prior high throughput screen (HTS), SPS8I1–3 (NSC663284, BVT948, and ryuvidine) were validated as potent SETD8 inhibitors. These compounds contain different structural motifs and inhibit SETD8 via distinct modes. More importantly, these compounds show cellular activity by suppressing the H4K20me1 mark of SETD8 and recapitulate characteristic S/G2/M-phase cell cycle defects as observed for RNAi-mediated SETD8 knockdown. The commonality of SPS8I1–3 against SETD8, together with their distinct structures and mechanisms for SETD8 inhibition, argues for the collective application of these compounds as SETD8 inhibitors.

Epigenetic pathway targets for the treatment of disease: accelerating progress in the development of pharmacological tools: IUPHAR Review 11

The properties of a cell are determined both genetically by the DNA sequence of its genes and epigenetically through processes that regulate the pattern, timing and magnitude of expression of its genes. While the genetic basis of disease has been a topic of intense study for decades, recent years have seen a dramatic increase in the understanding of epigenetic regulatory mechanisms and a growing appreciation that epigenetic misregulation makes a significant contribution to human disease. Several large protein families have been identified that act in different ways to control the expression of genes through epigenetic mechanisms. Many of these protein families are finally proving tractable for the development of small molecules that modulate their function and represent new target classes for drug discovery. Here, we provide an overview of some of the key epigenetic regulatory proteins and discuss progress towards the development of pharmacological tools for use in research and therapy.

Discovery of a selective, substrate-competitive inhibitor of the lysine methyltransferase SETD8

The lysine methyltransferase SETD8 is the only known methyltransferase that catalyzes monomethylation of histone H4 lysine 20 (H4K20). Monomethylation of H4K20 has been implicated in regulating diverse biological processes including the DNA damage response. In addition to H4K20, SETD8 monomethylates non-histone substrates including proliferating cell nuclear antigen (PCNA) and promotes carcinogenesis by deregulating PCNA expression. However, selective inhibitors of SETD8 are scarce. The only known selective inhibitor of SETD8 to date is nahuoic acid A, a marine natural product, which is competitive with the cofactor. Here, we report the discovery of the first substrate-competitive inhibitor of SETD8, UNC0379 (1). This small-molecule inhibitor is active in multiple biochemical assays. Its affinity to SETD8 was confirmed by ITC (isothermal titration calorimetry) and SPR (surface plasmon resonance) studies. Importantly, compound 1 is selective for SETD8 over 15 other methyltransferases. We also describe structure-activity relationships (SAR) of this series.

Marine low molecular weight natural products as potential cancer preventive compounds

Due to taxonomic positions and special living environments, marine organisms produce secondary metabolites that possess unique structures and biological activities. This review is devoted to recently isolated and/or earlier described marine compounds with potential or established cancer preventive activities, their biological sources, molecular mechanisms of their action, and their associations with human health and nutrition. The review covers literature published in 2003–2013 years and focuses on findings of the last 2 years.

Secondary metabolites from marine-derived microorganisms

In the search for novel and bioactive molecules for drug discovery, marine-derived natural resources, especially marine microorganisms are becoming an important and interesting research area. This study covers the literature published after 2008 on secondary metabolites of marine-derived microorganisms. The emphasis was on new compounds with the relevant biological activities, strain information, and country of origin. New compounds without biological activity were not included.

Structure-activity relationship studies of SETD8 inhibitors

SETD8 (also known as SET8, PR-SET7, or KMT5A (lysine methyltransferase 5A)) is the only known lysine methyltransferase that catalyzes monomethylation of histone H4 lysine 20 (H4K20). In addition to H4K20, SETD8 monomethylates non-histone substrates such as the tumor suppressor p53 and proliferating cell nuclear antigen (PCNA). Because of its role in regulating diverse biological processes, SETD8 has been pursued as a potential therapeutic target. We recently reported the first substrate-competitive SETD8 inhibitor, UNC0379 (1), which is selective for SETD8 over 15 other methyltransferases. We characterized this inhibitor in a battery of biochemical and biophysical assays. Here we describe our comprehensive structure-activity relationship (SAR) studies of this chemical series. In addition to 2- and 4-substituents, we extensively explored 6- and 7-substituents of the quinazoline scaffold. These SAR studies led to the discovery of several new compounds, which displayed similar potencies as compound 1, and interesting SAR trends.

Combating the epigenome: epigenetic drugs against non-Hodgkin's lymphoma

Non-Hodgkin's lymphomas (NHLs) comprise a large and diverse group of neoplasms of lymphocyte origin with heterogeneous molecular features and clinical manifestations. Current therapies are based on standard chemotherapy, immunotherapy, radiation or stem cell transplantation. The discovery of recurrent mutations in epigenetic enzymes, such as chromatin modifiers and DNA methyltransferases, has provided researchers with a rationale to develop novel inhibitors targeting these enzymes. Several clinical and preclinical studies have demonstrated the efficacy of epigenetic drugs in NHL therapy and a few specific inhibitors have already been approved for clinical use. Here, we provide an overview of current NHL classification and a review of the present literature describing epigenetic alterations in NHL, including a summary of different epigenetic drugs, and their use in preclinical and clinical studies.

Discovery of an in vivo chemical probe of the lysine methyltransferases G9a and GLP

Among epigenetic "writers", "readers", and "erasers", the lysine methyltransferases G9a and GLP, which catalyze mono- and dimethylation of histone H3 lysine 9 (H3K9me2) and nonhistone proteins, have been implicated in a variety of human diseases. A "toolkit" of well-characterized chemical probes will allow biological and disease hypotheses concerning these proteins to be tested in cell-based and animal models with high confidence. We previously discovered potent and selective G9a/GLP inhibitors including the cellular chemical probe UNC0638, which displays an excellent separation of functional potency and cell toxicity. However, this inhibitor is not suitable for animal studies due to its poor pharmacokinetic (PK) properties. Here, we report the discovery of the first G9a and GLP in vivo chemical probe UNC0642, which not only maintains high in vitro and cellular potency, low cell toxicity, and excellent selectivity, but also displays improved in vivo PK properties, making it suitable for animal studies.