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Hou X, Bai Z, Chen Y, Shi W, Yang H, Li R, Zhan X, Liu Y, Zhao X, Xiao X. Dipeptide PA3264 derived from rare and endangered Squama Manis is a novel bioactive peptide for the treatment of triple-negative breast cancer. Chin Med 2024; 19:112. [PMID: 39169391 PMCID: PMC11340106 DOI: 10.1186/s13020-024-00979-x] [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: 02/27/2024] [Accepted: 08/04/2024] [Indexed: 08/23/2024] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Squama Manis is a valuable traditional Chinese medicine with a long history of medicinal use in the treatment of breast-related diseases. However, owing to the excessive exploitation and utilization of the resources, Squama Manis has been included in the list of rare and endangered wild animals. The conservation of the resources of Squama Manis and continuing its clinical application has become an urgent problem, and the search for small-molecule substitutes for Squama Manis is an effective way to achieve this goal. Previous studies have identified PA3264 as a possible active ingredient in Squama Manis. In this study, we systematically investigated the pharmacological effects and mechanisms of PA3264 in the treatment of triple-negative breast cancer (TNBC), a representative breast-related disease. METHODS Cell viability and colony formation assays were performed after treatment with the target dipeptide PA3264 in vitro. Next, 4T1 orthotopic tumors and humanized PBMC-CDX mouse models were generated to examine the antitumor effect of PA3264 in vivo. Transcriptome sequencing and molecular docking experiments were performed to predict pathways to function. Western blotting and quantitative real-time PCR were used to validate the molecular mechanisms underlying the anticancer effects of PA3264. RESULTS PA3264 significantly inhibited cell viability and migration of breast cancer cells in vitro. Furthermore, PA3264 suppressed the tumor size and reduced the tumor weight in vivo. Finally, it was verified that PA3264 prevented the progression of breast cancer by inhibiting the PI3K/AKT/NF-κB pathway, causing cell cycle arrest, and promoting apoptosis. CONCLUSIONS This study elucidated that PA3264 derived from rare and endangered Squama Manis was a novel bioactive peptide for treating triple-negative breast cancer from a scientific research perspective.
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Affiliation(s)
- Xiaorong Hou
- School of Pharmacy/School of Modern Chinese Medicine Industry, Chengdu University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Chengdu, 611137, China
- Department of Hepatology, Fifth Medical Center of Chinese PLA General Hospital, Beijing, 100039, China
- Military Institute of Chinese Materia, Fifth Medical Center of Chinese PLA General Hospital, Beijing, 100039, China
| | - Zhaofang Bai
- Department of Hepatology, Fifth Medical Center of Chinese PLA General Hospital, Beijing, 100039, China
- Military Institute of Chinese Materia, Fifth Medical Center of Chinese PLA General Hospital, Beijing, 100039, China
| | - Yuanyuan Chen
- School of Pharmacy/School of Modern Chinese Medicine Industry, Chengdu University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Chengdu, 611137, China
- Department of Hepatology, Fifth Medical Center of Chinese PLA General Hospital, Beijing, 100039, China
- Military Institute of Chinese Materia, Fifth Medical Center of Chinese PLA General Hospital, Beijing, 100039, China
| | - Wei Shi
- Department of Hepatology, Fifth Medical Center of Chinese PLA General Hospital, Beijing, 100039, China
- Military Institute of Chinese Materia, Fifth Medical Center of Chinese PLA General Hospital, Beijing, 100039, China
| | - Huijie Yang
- Department of Hepatology, Fifth Medical Center of Chinese PLA General Hospital, Beijing, 100039, China
- Military Institute of Chinese Materia, Fifth Medical Center of Chinese PLA General Hospital, Beijing, 100039, China
| | - Ruisheng Li
- Research Institute of Department of Infectious Diseases, Fifth Medical Center of Chinese PLA General Hospital, Beijing, 100039, China
| | - Xiaoyan Zhan
- Department of Hepatology, Fifth Medical Center of Chinese PLA General Hospital, Beijing, 100039, China.
- Military Institute of Chinese Materia, Fifth Medical Center of Chinese PLA General Hospital, Beijing, 100039, China.
| | - Youping Liu
- School of Pharmacy/School of Modern Chinese Medicine Industry, Chengdu University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Chengdu, 611137, China.
| | - Xu Zhao
- Department of Hepatology, Fifth Medical Center of Chinese PLA General Hospital, Beijing, 100039, China.
- Military Institute of Chinese Materia, Fifth Medical Center of Chinese PLA General Hospital, Beijing, 100039, China.
| | - Xiaohe Xiao
- School of Pharmacy/School of Modern Chinese Medicine Industry, Chengdu University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Chengdu, 611137, China.
- Department of Hepatology, Fifth Medical Center of Chinese PLA General Hospital, Beijing, 100039, China.
- Military Institute of Chinese Materia, Fifth Medical Center of Chinese PLA General Hospital, Beijing, 100039, China.
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2
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Zhang Z, Tao J, Qiu J, Cao Z, Huang H, Xiao J, Zhang T. From basic research to clinical application: targeting fibroblast activation protein for cancer diagnosis and treatment. Cell Oncol (Dordr) 2024; 47:361-381. [PMID: 37726505 DOI: 10.1007/s13402-023-00872-z] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 08/30/2023] [Indexed: 09/21/2023] Open
Abstract
PURPOSE This study aims to review the multifaceted roles of a membrane protein named Fibroblast Activation Protein (FAP) expressed in tumor tissue, including its molecular functionalities, regulatory mechanisms governing its expression, prognostic significance, and its crucial role in cancer diagnosis and treatment. METHODS Articles that have uncovered the regulatory role of FAP in tumor, as well as its potential utility within clinical realms, spanning diagnosis to therapeutic intervention has been screened for a comprehensive review. RESULTS Our review reveals that FAP plays a pivotal role in solid tumor progression by undertaking a multitude of enzymatic and nonenzymatic roles within the tumor stroma. The exclusive presence of FAP within tumor tissues highlights its potential as a diagnostic marker and therapeutic target. The review also emphasizes the prognostic significance of FAP in predicting tumor progression and patient outcomes. Furthermore, the emerging strategies involving FAPI inhibitor (FAPI) in cancer research and clinical trials for PET/CT diagnosis are discussed. And targeted therapy utilizing FAP including FAPI, chimeric antigen receptor (CAR) T cell therapy, tumor vaccine, antibody-drug conjugates, bispecific T-cell engagers, FAP cleavable prodrugs, and drug delivery system are also introduced. CONCLUSION FAP's intricate interactions with tumor cells and the tumor microenvironment make it a promising target for diagnosis and treatment. Promising strategies such as FAPI offer potential avenues for accurate tumor diagnosis, while multiple therapeutic strategies highlight the prospects of FAP targeting treatments which needs further clinical evaluation.
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Affiliation(s)
- Zeyu Zhang
- Department of General Surgery, State Key Laboratory of Complex Severe and Rare Diseases, Peking Union Medical College Hospital, Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences and Peking Union Medical College, Beijing, 100730, China
- Key Laboratory of Research in Pancreatic Tumor, Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences, Beijing, 100730, China
| | - Jinxin Tao
- Department of General Surgery, State Key Laboratory of Complex Severe and Rare Diseases, Peking Union Medical College Hospital, Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences and Peking Union Medical College, Beijing, 100730, China
- Key Laboratory of Research in Pancreatic Tumor, Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences, Beijing, 100730, China
| | - Jiangdong Qiu
- Department of General Surgery, State Key Laboratory of Complex Severe and Rare Diseases, Peking Union Medical College Hospital, Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences and Peking Union Medical College, Beijing, 100730, China
- Key Laboratory of Research in Pancreatic Tumor, Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences, Beijing, 100730, China
| | - Zhe Cao
- Department of General Surgery, State Key Laboratory of Complex Severe and Rare Diseases, Peking Union Medical College Hospital, Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences and Peking Union Medical College, Beijing, 100730, China
- Key Laboratory of Research in Pancreatic Tumor, Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences, Beijing, 100730, China
| | - Hua Huang
- Department of General Surgery, State Key Laboratory of Complex Severe and Rare Diseases, Peking Union Medical College Hospital, Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences and Peking Union Medical College, Beijing, 100730, China
- Key Laboratory of Research in Pancreatic Tumor, Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences, Beijing, 100730, China
| | - Jianchun Xiao
- Department of General Surgery, State Key Laboratory of Complex Severe and Rare Diseases, Peking Union Medical College Hospital, Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences and Peking Union Medical College, Beijing, 100730, China
- Key Laboratory of Research in Pancreatic Tumor, Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences, Beijing, 100730, China
| | - Taiping Zhang
- Department of General Surgery, State Key Laboratory of Complex Severe and Rare Diseases, Peking Union Medical College Hospital, Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences and Peking Union Medical College, Beijing, 100730, China.
- Key Laboratory of Research in Pancreatic Tumor, Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences, Beijing, 100730, China.
- Clinical Immunology Center, Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences and Peking Union Medical College, Beijing, 100730, China.
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Kalaei Z, Manafi-Farid R, Rashidi B, Kiani FK, Zarei A, Fathi M, Jadidi-Niaragh F. The Prognostic and therapeutic value and clinical implications of fibroblast activation protein-α as a novel biomarker in colorectal cancer. Cell Commun Signal 2023; 21:139. [PMID: 37316886 DOI: 10.1186/s12964-023-01151-y] [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: 11/18/2022] [Accepted: 04/28/2023] [Indexed: 06/16/2023] Open
Abstract
The identification of contributing factors leading to the development of Colorectal Cancer (CRC), as the third fatal malignancy, is crucial. Today, the tumor microenvironment has been shown to play a key role in CRC progression. Fibroblast-Activation Protein-α (FAP) is a type II transmembrane cell surface proteinase expressed on the surface of cancer-associated fibroblasts in tumor stroma. As an enzyme, FAP has di- and endoprolylpeptidase, endoprotease, and gelatinase/collagenase activities in the Tumor Microenvironment (TME). According to recent reports, FAP overexpression in CRC contributes to adverse clinical outcomes such as increased lymph node metastasis, tumor recurrence, and angiogenesis, as well as decreased overall survival. In this review, studies about the expression level of FAP and its associations with CRC patients' prognosis are reviewed. High expression levels of FAP and its association with clinicopathological factors have made as a potential target. In many studies, FAP has been evaluated as a therapeutic target and diagnostic factor into which the current review tries to provide a comprehensive insight. Video Abstract.
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Affiliation(s)
- Zahra Kalaei
- Department of Biology, Faculty of Natural Sciences, Tabriz University, Tabriz, Iran
| | - Reyhaneh Manafi-Farid
- Research Center for Nuclear Medicine, Tehran University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran
| | - Bentolhoda Rashidi
- Immunology Research Center, Tabriz University of Medical Sciences, Tabriz, Iran
| | - Fariba Karoon Kiani
- Immunology Research Center, Tabriz University of Medical Sciences, Tabriz, Iran
| | - Asieh Zarei
- Immunology Research Center, Tabriz University of Medical Sciences, Tabriz, Iran
| | - Mehrdad Fathi
- Research Center for Integrative Medicine in Aging, Aging Research Institute, Tabriz University of Medical Sciences, Tabriz, Iran
| | - Farhad Jadidi-Niaragh
- Immunology Research Center, Tabriz University of Medical Sciences, Tabriz, Iran.
- Research Center for Integrative Medicine in Aging, Aging Research Institute, Tabriz University of Medical Sciences, Tabriz, Iran.
- Department of Immunology, Faculty of Medicine, Tabriz University of Medical Sciences, Tabriz, Iran.
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Bendre S, Zhang Z, Colpo N, Zeisler J, Wong AAWL, Bénard F, Lin KS. Synthesis and Evaluation of 68Ga-Labeled (2 S,4 S)-4-Fluoropyrrolidine-2-Carbonitrile and (4 R)-Thiazolidine-4-Carbonitrile Derivatives as Novel Fibroblast Activation Protein-Targeted PET Tracers for Cancer Imaging. Molecules 2023; 28:molecules28083481. [PMID: 37110717 PMCID: PMC10145249 DOI: 10.3390/molecules28083481] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/18/2023] [Revised: 04/08/2023] [Accepted: 04/12/2023] [Indexed: 04/29/2023] Open
Abstract
Fibroblast activation protein α (FAP-α) is a cell-surface protein overexpressed on cancer-associated fibroblasts that constitute a substantial component of tumor stroma and drive tumorigenesis. FAP is minimally expressed by most healthy tissues, including normal fibroblasts. This makes it a promising pan-cancer diagnostic and therapeutic target. In the present study, we synthesized two novel tracers, [68Ga]Ga-SB03045 and [68Ga]Ga-SB03058, bearing a (2S,4S)-4-fluoropyrrolidine-2-carbonitrile or a (4R)-thiazolidine-4-carbonitrile pharmacophore, respectively. [68Ga]Ga-SB03045 and [68Ga]Ga-SB03058 were evaluated for their FAP-targeting capabilities using substrate-based in vitro binding assays, and in PET/CT imaging and ex vivo biodistribution studies in an HEK293T:hFAP tumor xenograft mouse model. The IC50 values of natGa-SB03045 (1.59 ± 0.45 nM) and natGa-SB03058 (0.68 ± 0.09 nM) were found to be lower than those of the clinically validated natGa-FAPI-04 (4.11 ± 1.42 nM). Contrary to the results obtained in the FAP-binding assay, [68Ga]Ga-SB03058 demonstrated a ~1.5 fold lower tumor uptake than that of [68Ga]Ga-FAPI-04 (7.93 ± 1.33 vs. 11.90 ± 2.17 %ID/g), whereas [68Ga]Ga-SB03045 (11.8 ± 2.35 %ID/g) exhibited a tumor uptake comparable to that of [68Ga]Ga-FAPI-04. Thus, our data suggest that the (2S,4S)-4-fluoropyrrolidine-2-carbonitrile scaffold holds potential as a promising pharmacophore for the design of FAP-targeted radioligands for cancer diagnosis and therapy.
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Affiliation(s)
- Shreya Bendre
- Department of Molecular Oncology, BC Cancer Research Institute, Vancouver, BC V5Z 1L3, Canada
| | - Zhengxing Zhang
- Department of Molecular Oncology, BC Cancer Research Institute, Vancouver, BC V5Z 1L3, Canada
| | - Nadine Colpo
- Department of Molecular Oncology, BC Cancer Research Institute, Vancouver, BC V5Z 1L3, Canada
| | - Jutta Zeisler
- Department of Molecular Oncology, BC Cancer Research Institute, Vancouver, BC V5Z 1L3, Canada
| | - Antonio A W L Wong
- Department of Molecular Oncology, BC Cancer Research Institute, Vancouver, BC V5Z 1L3, Canada
| | - François Bénard
- Department of Molecular Oncology, BC Cancer Research Institute, Vancouver, BC V5Z 1L3, Canada
- Department of Functional Imaging, BC Cancer, Vancouver, BC V5Z 4E6, Canada
- Department of Radiology, University of British Columbia, Vancouver, BC V5Z 1M9, Canada
| | - Kuo-Shyan Lin
- Department of Molecular Oncology, BC Cancer Research Institute, Vancouver, BC V5Z 1L3, Canada
- Department of Functional Imaging, BC Cancer, Vancouver, BC V5Z 4E6, Canada
- Department of Radiology, University of British Columbia, Vancouver, BC V5Z 1M9, Canada
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Song P, Pan Q, Sun Z, Zou L, Yang L. Fibroblast activation protein alpha: Comprehensive detection methods for drug target and tumor marker. Chem Biol Interact 2022; 354:109830. [PMID: 35104486 DOI: 10.1016/j.cbi.2022.109830] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/04/2021] [Revised: 12/22/2021] [Accepted: 01/21/2022] [Indexed: 11/25/2022]
Abstract
Fibroblast activation protein alpha (FAP-α, EC3.4.2. B28), a type II transmembrane proteolytic enzyme for the serine protease peptidase family. It is underexpressed in normal tissues but increased significantly in disease states, especially in neoplasm, which is a potential biomarker to turmor diagnosis. The inhibition of FAP-α activity will retard tumor formation, which is expected to be a promising tumor therapeutic target. At present, although the FAP-α expression detection methods has diversification, a superlative detection means is necessary for the clinical diagnosis. This review covers the discovery and the latest advances in FAP-α, as well as the future research prospects. The tissue distribution, structural characteristics, small-molecule ligands and structure-activity relationship of major inhibitors of FAP-α were summarized in this review. Furthermore, a variety of detection methods including traditional detection methods and emerging probes detection were classified and compared, and the design strategy and kinetic parameters of these FAP-α probe substrates were summarized. In addition, these comprehensive information provides a series of practical and reliable assays for the optimal design principles of FAP-α probes, promoting the application of FAP-α as a disease marker in diagnosis, and a drug target in drug design.
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Affiliation(s)
- Peifang Song
- Institute of Interdisciplinary Integrative Medicine Research, Shanghai University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Shanghai, China
| | - Quisha Pan
- Institute of Interdisciplinary Integrative Medicine Research, Shanghai University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Shanghai, China
| | | | - Liwei Zou
- Institute of Interdisciplinary Integrative Medicine Research, Shanghai University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Shanghai, China.
| | - Ling Yang
- Institute of Interdisciplinary Integrative Medicine Research, Shanghai University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Shanghai, China
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Shao H, Li B, Li H, Gao L, Zhang C, Sheng H, Zhu L. Novel Strategies for Solubility and Bioavailability Enhancement of Bufadienolides. Molecules 2021; 27:51. [PMID: 35011278 PMCID: PMC8746454 DOI: 10.3390/molecules27010051] [Citation(s) in RCA: 14] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/25/2021] [Revised: 12/19/2021] [Accepted: 12/20/2021] [Indexed: 02/07/2023] Open
Abstract
Toad venom contains a large number of bufadienolides, which have a variety of pharmacological activities, including antitumor, cardiovascular, anti-inflammatory, analgesic and immunomodulatory effects. The strong antitumor effect of bufadienolides has attracted considerable attention in recent years, but the clinical application of bufadienolides is limited due to their low solubility and poor bioavailability. In order to overcome these shortcomings, many strategies have been explored, such as structural modification, solid dispersion, cyclodextrin inclusion, microemulsion and nanodrug delivery systems, etc. In this review, we have tried to summarize the pharmacological activities and structure-activity relationship of bufadienolides. Furthermore, the strategies for solubility and bioavailability enhancement of bufadienolides also are discussed. This review can provide a basis for further study on bufadienolides.
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Affiliation(s)
| | | | | | | | | | - Huagang Sheng
- College of Pharmacy, Shandong University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, 4655 Daxue Road, Jinan 250355, China; (H.S.); (B.L.); (H.L.); (L.G.); (C.Z.)
| | - Liqiao Zhu
- College of Pharmacy, Shandong University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, 4655 Daxue Road, Jinan 250355, China; (H.S.); (B.L.); (H.L.); (L.G.); (C.Z.)
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7
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Xin L, Gao J, Zheng Z, Chen Y, Lv S, Zhao Z, Yu C, Yang X, Zhang R. Fibroblast Activation Protein-α as a Target in the Bench-to-Bedside Diagnosis and Treatment of Tumors: A Narrative Review. Front Oncol 2021; 11:648187. [PMID: 34490078 PMCID: PMC8416977 DOI: 10.3389/fonc.2021.648187] [Citation(s) in RCA: 59] [Impact Index Per Article: 19.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/18/2021] [Accepted: 07/28/2021] [Indexed: 12/13/2022] Open
Abstract
Fibroblast activation protein-α (FAP) is a type II integral serine protease that is specifically expressed by activated fibroblasts. Cancer-associated fibroblasts (CAFs) in the tumor stroma have an abundant and stable expression of FAP, which plays an important role in promoting tumor growth, invasion, metastasis, and immunosuppression. For example, in females with a high incidence of breast cancer, CAFs account for 50–70% of the cells in the tumor’s microenvironment. CAF overexpression of FAP promotes tumor development and metastasis by influencing extracellular matrix remodeling, intracellular signaling, angiogenesis, epithelial-to-mesenchymal transition, and immunosuppression. This review discusses the basic biological characteristics of FAP and its applications in the diagnosis and treatment of various cancers. We review the emerging basic and clinical research data regarding the use of nanomaterials that target FAP.
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Affiliation(s)
- Lei Xin
- Department of Radiology, Affiliated Tumor Hospital of Shanxi Medical University, Taiyuan, China
| | - Jinfang Gao
- Third Hospital of Shanxi Medical University, Shanxi Bethune Hospital, Shanxi Academy of Medical Sciences, Taiyuan, China
| | - Ziliang Zheng
- Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, Shanxi Medical University, Taiyuan, China
| | - Yiyou Chen
- Department of Radiology, Affiliated Tumor Hospital of Shanxi Medical University, Taiyuan, China
| | - Shuxin Lv
- Third Hospital of Shanxi Medical University, Shanxi Bethune Hospital, Shanxi Academy of Medical Sciences, Taiyuan, China
| | - Zhikai Zhao
- Department of Radiology, Affiliated Tumor Hospital of Shanxi Medical University, Taiyuan, China
| | - Chunhai Yu
- Department of Radiology, Affiliated Tumor Hospital of Shanxi Medical University, Taiyuan, China
| | - Xiaotang Yang
- Department of Radiology, Affiliated Tumor Hospital of Shanxi Medical University, Taiyuan, China
| | - Ruiping Zhang
- Department of Radiology, Affiliated Tumor Hospital of Shanxi Medical University, Taiyuan, China
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8
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Acetyl-bufalin shows potent efficacy against non-small-cell lung cancer by targeting the CDK9/STAT3 signalling pathway. Br J Cancer 2020; 124:645-657. [PMID: 33122847 PMCID: PMC7851395 DOI: 10.1038/s41416-020-01135-6] [Citation(s) in RCA: 31] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/17/2020] [Revised: 09/04/2020] [Accepted: 10/08/2020] [Indexed: 12/20/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Cyclin-dependent kinase 9 (CDK9) is a promising prognostic marker and therapeutic target in cancers. Bufalin is an effective anti-tumour agent; however, the clinical application of bufalin is limited due to its high toxicity. Acetyl-bufalin, the bufalin prodrug, was designed and synthesised with higher efficiency and lower toxicity. METHODS Three non-small-cell lung cancer (NSCLC) cell lines, a xenograft model and a patient-derived xenograft (PDX) model were used to examine the effects of acetyl-bufalin. CDK9/STAT3 involvement was investigated by knockdown with siRNA, proteome microarray assay, western blot analysis and co-immunoprecipitation experiments. Acute toxicity test and pharmacokinetics (PK) study were conducted to assess the safety and PK. The human NSCLC tissues were analysed to verify high CDK9 expression. RESULTS We showed that CDK9 induced NSCLC cell proliferation and that this effect was associated with STAT3 activation, specifically an increase in STAT3 phosphorylation and transcription factor activity. Acetyl-bufalin is an effective and safety inhibitor of the CDK9/STAT3 pathway, leading to the impediment of various oncogenic processes in NSCLC. Molecular docking and high-throughput proteomics platform analysis uncovered acetyl-bufalin directly binds to CDK9. Consequently, acetyl-bufalin impaired the complex formation of CDK9 and STAT3, decreased the expressions of P-STAT3, and transcribed target genes such as cyclin B1, CDC2, MCL-1, Survivin, VEGF, BCL2, and it upregulated the expression levels of BAX and caspase-3 activity. Acetyl-bufalin inhibited tumour growth in NSCLC xenograft and PDX models. CONCLUSIONS Acetyl-bufalin is a novel blocker of the CDK9/STAT3 pathway thus may have potential in therapy of NSCLC and other cancers.
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Deng LJ, Li Y, Qi M, Liu JS, Wang S, Hu LJ, Lei YH, Jiang RW, Chen WM, Qi Q, Tian HY, Han WL, Wu BJ, Chen JX, Ye WC, Zhang DM. Molecular mechanisms of bufadienolides and their novel strategies for cancer treatment. Eur J Pharmacol 2020; 887:173379. [PMID: 32758567 DOI: 10.1016/j.ejphar.2020.173379] [Citation(s) in RCA: 15] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/10/2020] [Revised: 07/05/2020] [Accepted: 07/13/2020] [Indexed: 12/16/2022]
Abstract
Bufadienolides are cardioactive C24 steroids with an α-pyrone ring at position C17. In the last ten years, accumulating studies have revealed the anticancer activities of bufadienolides and their underlying mechanisms, such as induction of autophagy and apoptosis, cell cycle disruption, inhibition of angiogenesis, epithelial-mesenchymal transition (EMT) and stemness, and multidrug resistance reversal. As Na+/K+-ATPase inhibitors, bufadienolides have inevitable cardiotoxicity. Short half-lives, poor stability, low plasma concentration and oral bioavailability in vivo are obstacles for their applications as drugs. To improve the drug potency of bufadienolides and reduce their side effects, prodrug strategies and drug delivery systems such as liposomes and nanoparticles have been applied. Therefore, systematic and recapitulated information about the antitumor activity of bufadienolides, with special emphasis on the molecular or cellular mechanisms, prodrug strategies and drug delivery systems, is of high interest. Here, we systematically review the anticancer effects of bufadienolides and the molecular or cellular mechanisms of action. Research advancements regarding bufadienolide prodrugs and their tumor-targeting delivery strategies are critically summarized. This work highlights recent scientific advances regarding bufadienolides as effective anticancer agents from 2011 to 2019, which will help researchers to understand the molecular pathways involving bufadienolides, resulting in a selective and safe new lead compound or therapeutic strategy with improved therapeutic applications of bufadienolides for cancer therapy.
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Affiliation(s)
- Li-Juan Deng
- College of Pharmacy, Jinan University, Guangzhou, 510632, China; Guangdong Province Key Laboratory of Pharmacodynamic Constituents of Traditional Chinese Medicine and New Drugs Research, Jinan University, Guangzhou, 510632, China; School of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Jinan University, Guangzhou, 510632, China
| | - Yong Li
- College of Pharmacy, Jinan University, Guangzhou, 510632, China; Guangdong Province Key Laboratory of Pharmacodynamic Constituents of Traditional Chinese Medicine and New Drugs Research, Jinan University, Guangzhou, 510632, China
| | - Ming Qi
- College of Pharmacy, Jinan University, Guangzhou, 510632, China; Guangdong Province Key Laboratory of Pharmacodynamic Constituents of Traditional Chinese Medicine and New Drugs Research, Jinan University, Guangzhou, 510632, China
| | - Jun-Shan Liu
- School of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Southern Medical University, Guangzhou, 510515, China
| | - Sheng Wang
- School of Traditional Chinese Pharmacy, China Pharmaceutical University, Nanjing, 211198, China
| | - Li-Jun Hu
- College of Pharmacy, Jinan University, Guangzhou, 510632, China; Guangdong Province Key Laboratory of Pharmacodynamic Constituents of Traditional Chinese Medicine and New Drugs Research, Jinan University, Guangzhou, 510632, China
| | - Yu-He Lei
- Shenzhen Hospital of Guangzhou University of Chinese Medicine, Shenzhen, 518034, China
| | - Ren-Wang Jiang
- College of Pharmacy, Jinan University, Guangzhou, 510632, China; Guangdong Province Key Laboratory of Pharmacodynamic Constituents of Traditional Chinese Medicine and New Drugs Research, Jinan University, Guangzhou, 510632, China
| | - Wei-Min Chen
- College of Pharmacy, Jinan University, Guangzhou, 510632, China
| | - Qi Qi
- Clinical Translational Center for Targeted Drug, Department of Pharmacology, School of Medicine, Jinan University, Guangzhou, 510632, PR China
| | - Hai-Yan Tian
- College of Pharmacy, Jinan University, Guangzhou, 510632, China; Guangdong Province Key Laboratory of Pharmacodynamic Constituents of Traditional Chinese Medicine and New Drugs Research, Jinan University, Guangzhou, 510632, China
| | - Wei-Li Han
- School of Public Health, Southern Medical University, Guangzhou, 510515, China
| | - Bao-Jian Wu
- College of Pharmacy, Jinan University, Guangzhou, 510632, China
| | - Jia-Xu Chen
- School of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Jinan University, Guangzhou, 510632, China
| | - Wen-Cai Ye
- College of Pharmacy, Jinan University, Guangzhou, 510632, China; Guangdong Province Key Laboratory of Pharmacodynamic Constituents of Traditional Chinese Medicine and New Drugs Research, Jinan University, Guangzhou, 510632, China.
| | - Dong-Mei Zhang
- College of Pharmacy, Jinan University, Guangzhou, 510632, China; Guangdong Province Key Laboratory of Pharmacodynamic Constituents of Traditional Chinese Medicine and New Drugs Research, Jinan University, Guangzhou, 510632, China.
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Li M, Wang XJ, Zhao Q, Wang JX, Xing HY, Zhang YZ, Zhang XX, Zhi YY, Li H, Ma J. Bufalin-induced cardiotoxicity: new findings into mechanisms. Chin J Nat Med 2020; 18:550-560. [PMID: 32616195 DOI: 10.1016/s1875-5364(20)30065-0] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/12/2019] [Indexed: 12/20/2022]
Abstract
Bufalin is one of the main pharmacological and toxicological components of Venenum Bufonis and many traditional Chinese medicine preparations. The cardiotoxicity clearly limits its application to patients living in countries. Hence, an investigation of its toxicological mechanism is helpful for new drug development and treatment of the related clinical adverse reactions. We investigate the cardiotoxicity of bufalin using human induced pluripotent stem cells-derived cardiomyocytes (hiPSC-CMs) (0.003-0.1 μmol·L-1), human induced pluripotent stem cells-derived cardiomyocytes (hiPSC-CMs) (0.03-0.3 μmol·L-1) and eight human cardiac ion channel currents (0.01-100 μmol·L-1) combined with an impedance-based bioanalytical and patch clamp method. Biphasic effect of bufalin on the contractility in hiPSC-CMs, which has been shown to strengthen myocardial contractility, accelerate conduction, and increase beating rate at the earlier stage of administration, whereas weakened myocardial contractility, abolished conduction, and ceased beating rate at the later stage of administration. Bufalin decreased the action potential duration (Action potential duration at 30%, 50% and 90% repolarization), cardiac action potential amplitude, and maximal depolarization rate and depolarized the resting membrane potential of hiPSC-CMs. Spontaneous beating rates of hiPSC-CMs were markedly increased at 0.03 μmol·L-1, while were weakened at 0.3 μmol·L-1 after application. Bufalin blocks INav1.5 in a concentration-dependent manner with half maximal inhibitory concentration of 74.5 μmol·L-1. Bufalin respectively increased the late sodium current and Na+-Ca2+ exchange current with a concentration for 50% of maximal effect of 2.48 and 66.06 μmol·L-1 in hiPSC-CMs. Whereas, bufalin showed no significant effects on other cardiac ion channel currents. The enhancement of the late sodium current is one of the main mechanism for cardiotoxicity of bufalin.
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Affiliation(s)
- Min Li
- China State Institutes of Pharmaceutical Industry National Shanghai Center for New Drug Safety Evaluation and Research, Shanghai 201203, China; Shanghai InnoStar Bio-Tech Co., Ltd., Shanghai 201203, China
| | - Xi-Jie Wang
- China State Institutes of Pharmaceutical Industry National Shanghai Center for New Drug Safety Evaluation and Research, Shanghai 201203, China; Shanghai InnoStar Bio-Tech Co., Ltd., Shanghai 201203, China
| | - Qi Zhao
- China State Institutes of Pharmaceutical Industry National Shanghai Center for New Drug Safety Evaluation and Research, Shanghai 201203, China; Shanghai InnoStar Bio-Tech Co., Ltd., Shanghai 201203, China
| | - Jia-Xian Wang
- Department of Cardiology, the First Affiliated Hospital of Nanjing Medical University, Nanjing Medical University, Nanjing 211100, China; Department of Research and Development, HELP Stem Cell Therapeutics, Nanjing 211100, China
| | - Hong-Yan Xing
- China State Institutes of Pharmaceutical Industry National Shanghai Center for New Drug Safety Evaluation and Research, Shanghai 201203, China; Shanghai InnoStar Bio-Tech Co., Ltd., Shanghai 201203, China
| | - Yi-Zhe Zhang
- China State Institutes of Pharmaceutical Industry National Shanghai Center for New Drug Safety Evaluation and Research, Shanghai 201203, China; Shanghai InnoStar Bio-Tech Co., Ltd., Shanghai 201203, China
| | - Xue-Xia Zhang
- China State Institutes of Pharmaceutical Industry National Shanghai Center for New Drug Safety Evaluation and Research, Shanghai 201203, China; Shanghai InnoStar Bio-Tech Co., Ltd., Shanghai 201203, China
| | - Yang-Yang Zhi
- China State Institutes of Pharmaceutical Industry National Shanghai Center for New Drug Safety Evaluation and Research, Shanghai 201203, China; Shanghai InnoStar Bio-Tech Co., Ltd., Shanghai 201203, China
| | - Hua Li
- China State Institutes of Pharmaceutical Industry National Shanghai Center for New Drug Safety Evaluation and Research, Shanghai 201203, China; Shanghai InnoStar Bio-Tech Co., Ltd., Shanghai 201203, China.
| | - Jing Ma
- China State Institutes of Pharmaceutical Industry National Shanghai Center for New Drug Safety Evaluation and Research, Shanghai 201203, China; Shanghai InnoStar Bio-Tech Co., Ltd., Shanghai 201203, China.
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Šimková A, Bušek P, Šedo A, Konvalinka J. Molecular recognition of fibroblast activation protein for diagnostic and therapeutic applications. BIOCHIMICA ET BIOPHYSICA ACTA-PROTEINS AND PROTEOMICS 2020; 1868:140409. [PMID: 32171757 DOI: 10.1016/j.bbapap.2020.140409] [Citation(s) in RCA: 25] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/02/2019] [Revised: 02/24/2020] [Accepted: 03/05/2020] [Indexed: 01/09/2023]
Abstract
Fibroblast activation protein (FAP) is a non-classical serine protease expressed predominantly in conditions accompanied by tissue remodeling, particularly cancer. Due to its plasma membrane localization, FAP represents a promising molecular target for tumor imaging and treatment. The unique enzymatic activity of FAP facilitates development of diagnostic and therapeutic tools based on molecular recognition of FAP by substrates and small-molecule inhibitors, in addition to conventional antibody-based strategies. In this review, we provide background on the pathophysiological role of FAP and discuss its potential for diagnostic and therapeutic applications. Furthermore, we present a detailed analysis of the structural patterns crucial for substrate and inhibitor recognition by the FAP active site and determinants of selectivity over the related proteases dipeptidyl peptidase IV and prolyl endopeptidase. We also review published data on targeting of the tumor microenvironment with FAP antibodies, FAP-targeted prodrugs, activity-based probes and small-molecule inhibitors. We describe use of a recently developed, selective FAP inhibitor with low-nanomolar potency in inhibitor-based targeting strategies including synthetic antibody mimetics based on hydrophilic polymers and inhibitor conjugates for PET imaging. In conclusion, recent advances in understanding of the molecular structure and function of FAP have significantly contributed to the development of several tools with potential for translation into clinical practice.
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Affiliation(s)
- Adéla Šimková
- Institute of Organic Chemistry and Biochemistry of the Czech Academy of Sciences, Flemingovo náměstí 542/2, 166 10 Praha 6, Czech Republic; Department of Organic Chemistry, Faculty of Science, Charles University, Hlavova 8, 12843 Praha 2, Czech Republic.
| | - Petr Bušek
- Institute of Biochemistry and Experimental Oncology, First Faculty of Medicine, Charles University, U Nemocnice 5, 128 53 Praha 2, Czech Republic.
| | - Aleksi Šedo
- Institute of Biochemistry and Experimental Oncology, First Faculty of Medicine, Charles University, U Nemocnice 5, 128 53 Praha 2, Czech Republic.
| | - Jan Konvalinka
- Institute of Organic Chemistry and Biochemistry of the Czech Academy of Sciences, Flemingovo náměstí 542/2, 166 10 Praha 6, Czech Republic; Department of Biochemistry, Faculty of Science, Charles University, Hlavova 8, 12843 Praha 2, Czech Republic.
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Zhong Y, Zhao C, Wu WY, Fan TY, Li NG, Chen M, Duan JA, Shi ZH. Total synthesis, chemical modification and structure-activity relationship of bufadienolides. Eur J Med Chem 2020; 189:112038. [PMID: 31945667 DOI: 10.1016/j.ejmech.2020.112038] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/15/2019] [Revised: 12/13/2019] [Accepted: 01/03/2020] [Indexed: 02/08/2023]
Abstract
Bufadienolides are a type of natural cardiac steroids and originally isolated from the Traditional Chinese Medicine Chan'Su, they have been used for the treatment of heart disease in traditional remedies as well as in modern medicinal therapy with potent anti-tumor activities. Due to their unique molecular structures with unsaturated six-membered lactones attached to the steroid core, bufadienolides have received great attention in the synthetic organic community. This review presents total synthetic efforts to some representative bufadienolides, chemical modification of bufadienolides will also be given to discuss their structure-activity relationship in anti-tumor.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yue- Zhong
- National and Local Collaborative Engineering Center of Chinese Medicinal Resources Industrialization and Formulae Innovative Medicine, Jiangsu Collaborative Innovation Center of Chinese Medicinal Resources Industrialization, Jiangsu Key Laboratory for High Technology Research of TCM Formulae, Nanjing University of Chinese Medicine, Nanjing, 210023, China
| | - Chao- Zhao
- National and Local Collaborative Engineering Center of Chinese Medicinal Resources Industrialization and Formulae Innovative Medicine, Jiangsu Collaborative Innovation Center of Chinese Medicinal Resources Industrialization, Jiangsu Key Laboratory for High Technology Research of TCM Formulae, Nanjing University of Chinese Medicine, Nanjing, 210023, China
| | - Wen-Yu Wu
- Department of Nuclear Medicine, Nanjing First Hospital, Nanjing Medical University, Nanjing, 210006, China
| | - Tian-Yuan Fan
- National and Local Collaborative Engineering Center of Chinese Medicinal Resources Industrialization and Formulae Innovative Medicine, Jiangsu Collaborative Innovation Center of Chinese Medicinal Resources Industrialization, Jiangsu Key Laboratory for High Technology Research of TCM Formulae, Nanjing University of Chinese Medicine, Nanjing, 210023, China
| | - Nian-Guang Li
- National and Local Collaborative Engineering Center of Chinese Medicinal Resources Industrialization and Formulae Innovative Medicine, Jiangsu Collaborative Innovation Center of Chinese Medicinal Resources Industrialization, Jiangsu Key Laboratory for High Technology Research of TCM Formulae, Nanjing University of Chinese Medicine, Nanjing, 210023, China.
| | - Min- Chen
- National and Local Collaborative Engineering Center of Chinese Medicinal Resources Industrialization and Formulae Innovative Medicine, Jiangsu Collaborative Innovation Center of Chinese Medicinal Resources Industrialization, Jiangsu Key Laboratory for High Technology Research of TCM Formulae, Nanjing University of Chinese Medicine, Nanjing, 210023, China
| | - Jin-Ao Duan
- National and Local Collaborative Engineering Center of Chinese Medicinal Resources Industrialization and Formulae Innovative Medicine, Jiangsu Collaborative Innovation Center of Chinese Medicinal Resources Industrialization, Jiangsu Key Laboratory for High Technology Research of TCM Formulae, Nanjing University of Chinese Medicine, Nanjing, 210023, China
| | - Zhi-Hao Shi
- Department of Organic Chemistry, China Pharmaceutical University, Nanjing, 211198, China.
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Han X, Xu Y, Geranpayehvaghei M, Anderson GJ, Li Y, Nie G. Emerging nanomedicines for anti-stromal therapy against desmoplastic tumors. Biomaterials 2020; 232:119745. [DOI: 10.1016/j.biomaterials.2019.119745] [Citation(s) in RCA: 28] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/08/2019] [Revised: 11/29/2019] [Accepted: 12/25/2019] [Indexed: 02/09/2023]
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