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Matsuyama M, Ortega JT, Fedorov Y, Scott-McKean J, Muller-Greven J, Buck M, Adams D, Jastrzebska B, Greenlee W, Matsuyama S. Development of novel cytoprotective small compounds inhibiting mitochondria-dependent cell death. iScience 2023; 26:107916. [PMID: 37841588 PMCID: PMC10568349 DOI: 10.1016/j.isci.2023.107916] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/17/2023] [Revised: 07/27/2023] [Accepted: 09/12/2023] [Indexed: 10/17/2023] Open
Abstract
We identified cytoprotective small molecules (CSMs) by a cell-based high-throughput screening of Bax inhibitors. Through a medicinal chemistry program, M109S was developed, which is orally bioactive and penetrates the blood-brain/retina barriers. M109S protected retinal cells in ocular disease mouse models. M109S directly interacted with Bax and inhibited the conformational change and mitochondrial translocation of Bax. M109S inhibited ABT-737-induced apoptosis both in Bax-only and Bak-only mouse embryonic fibroblasts. M109S also inhibited apoptosis induced by staurosporine, etoposide, and obatoclax. M109S decreased maximal mitochondrial oxygen consumption rate and reactive oxygen species production, whereas it increased glycolysis. These effects on cellular metabolism may contribute to the cytoprotective activity of M109S. M109S is a novel small molecule protecting cells from mitochondria-dependent apoptosis both in vitro and in vivo. M109S has the potential to become a research tool for studying cell death mechanisms and to develop therapeutics targeting mitochondria-dependent cell death pathway.
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Affiliation(s)
- Mieko Matsuyama
- Department of Ophthalmology and Visual Science, School of Medicine, Case Western Reserve University, Cleveland, OH 44106, USA
| | - Joseph T. Ortega
- Department of Pharmacology and Cleveland Center for Membrane and Structural Biology, School of Medicine, Case Western Reserve University, Cleveland, OH 44106, USA
| | - Yuri Fedorov
- Department of Genetics and Genome Science, School of Medicine, Case Western Reserve University, Cleveland, OH 44106, USA
| | - Jonah Scott-McKean
- Department of Ophthalmology and Visual Science, School of Medicine, Case Western Reserve University, Cleveland, OH 44106, USA
- Department of Macromolecular Science and Engineering, School of Engineering, Case Western Reserve University, Cleveland, OH 44106, USA
| | - Jeannie Muller-Greven
- Department of Physiology and Biophysics, School of Medicine, Case Western Reserve University, Cleveland, OH 44106, USA
| | - Matthias Buck
- Department of Physiology and Biophysics, School of Medicine, Case Western Reserve University, Cleveland, OH 44106, USA
| | - Drew Adams
- Department of Genetics and Genome Science, School of Medicine, Case Western Reserve University, Cleveland, OH 44106, USA
| | - Beata Jastrzebska
- Department of Pharmacology and Cleveland Center for Membrane and Structural Biology, School of Medicine, Case Western Reserve University, Cleveland, OH 44106, USA
| | | | - Shigemi Matsuyama
- Department of Ophthalmology and Visual Science, School of Medicine, Case Western Reserve University, Cleveland, OH 44106, USA
- Department of Pharmacology and Cleveland Center for Membrane and Structural Biology, School of Medicine, Case Western Reserve University, Cleveland, OH 44106, USA
- Department of Pathology, School of Medicine, Case Western Reserve University, Cleveland, OH 44106, USA
- Division of Hematology and Oncology, Department of Medicine, School of Medicine, Case Western Reserve University, Cleveland, OH 44106, USA
- Case Comprehensive Cancer Center, Cleveland, OH 44106, USA
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Li Z, Pan G, Zhong M, Zhang L, Yu X, Zha J, Xu B. High-Throughput Drug Screen for Potential Combinations With Venetoclax Guides the Treatment of Transformed Follicular Lymphoma. Int J Toxicol 2023; 42:386-406. [PMID: 37271574 DOI: 10.1177/10915818231178693] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 06/06/2023]
Abstract
Transformed follicular lymphoma (t-FL) is an aggressive malignancy that is refractory and rapidly progressing with poor prognosis. There is currently no effective treatment. High-throughput screening (HTS) platforms are used to profile the sensitivity or toxicity of hundreds of drug molecules, and this approach is applied to identify potential effective treatments for t-FL. We randomly selected a compound panel from the School of Pharmaceutical Sciences Xiamen University, tested the effects of the panel on the activity of t-FL cell lines using HTS and the CCK-8 assay, and identified compounds showing synergistic anti-proliferative activity with the Bcl-2 inhibitor venetoclax (ABT-199). Bioinformatics tools were used to analyze the potential synergistic mechanisms. The single-concentration compound library demonstrated varying degrees of activity across the t-FL cell lines evaluated, of which the Karpas422 cells were the most sensitive, but it was the cell line with the least synergy with ABT-199. We computationally identified 30 drugs with synergistic effects in all cell lines. Molecularly, we found that the targets of these 30 drugs didn't directly regulate Bcl-2 and identified 13 medications with high evidence value above .9 of coordination with ABT-199, further confirming TP53 may play the largest role in the synergistic effect. Collectively, these findings identified the combined regimens of ABT-199 and further suggested that the mechanism is far from directly targeting Bcl-2, but rather through the regulation and synergistic action of p53 and Bcl-2. This study intended to reveal the best synergistic scheme of ABT-199 through HTS to more quickly inform the treatment of t-FL.
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Affiliation(s)
- Zhifeng Li
- The School of Clinical Medicine, Fujian Medical University, Fuzhou, China
- Department of Hematology, The First Affiliated Hospital of Xiamen University and Institute of Hematology, School of Medicine, Xiamen University, Xiamen, China
- Key laboratory of Xiamen for Diagnosis and Treatment of Hematological Malignancy, Xiamen, China
| | - Guangchao Pan
- Department of Hematology, The First Affiliated Hospital of Xiamen University and Institute of Hematology, School of Medicine, Xiamen University, Xiamen, China
- Key laboratory of Xiamen for Diagnosis and Treatment of Hematological Malignancy, Xiamen, China
| | - Mengya Zhong
- Department of Hematology, The First Affiliated Hospital of Xiamen University and Institute of Hematology, School of Medicine, Xiamen University, Xiamen, China
- Key laboratory of Xiamen for Diagnosis and Treatment of Hematological Malignancy, Xiamen, China
| | - Li Zhang
- Department of Hematology, The First Affiliated Hospital of Xiamen University and Institute of Hematology, School of Medicine, Xiamen University, Xiamen, China
- Key laboratory of Xiamen for Diagnosis and Treatment of Hematological Malignancy, Xiamen, China
| | - Xingxing Yu
- Department of Hematology, The First Affiliated Hospital of Xiamen University and Institute of Hematology, School of Medicine, Xiamen University, Xiamen, China
- Key laboratory of Xiamen for Diagnosis and Treatment of Hematological Malignancy, Xiamen, China
| | - Jie Zha
- Department of Hematology, The First Affiliated Hospital of Xiamen University and Institute of Hematology, School of Medicine, Xiamen University, Xiamen, China
- Key laboratory of Xiamen for Diagnosis and Treatment of Hematological Malignancy, Xiamen, China
| | - Bing Xu
- The School of Clinical Medicine, Fujian Medical University, Fuzhou, China
- Department of Hematology, The First Affiliated Hospital of Xiamen University and Institute of Hematology, School of Medicine, Xiamen University, Xiamen, China
- Key laboratory of Xiamen for Diagnosis and Treatment of Hematological Malignancy, Xiamen, China
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Bateman G, Guo-Parke H, Rodgers AM, Linden D, Bailey M, Weldon S, Kidney JC, Taggart CC. Airway Epithelium Senescence as a Driving Mechanism in COPD Pathogenesis. Biomedicines 2023; 11:2072. [PMID: 37509711 PMCID: PMC10377597 DOI: 10.3390/biomedicines11072072] [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: 06/29/2023] [Revised: 07/19/2023] [Accepted: 07/20/2023] [Indexed: 07/30/2023] Open
Abstract
Cellular senescence is a state of permanent cell cycle arrest triggered by various intrinsic and extrinsic stressors. Cellular senescence results in impaired tissue repair and remodeling, loss of physiological integrity, organ dysfunction, and changes in the secretome. The systemic accumulation of senescence cells has been observed in many age-related diseases. Likewise, cellular senescence has been implicated as a risk factor and driving mechanism in chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD) pathogenesis. Airway epithelium exhibits hallmark features of senescence in COPD including activation of the p53/p21WAF1/CIP1 and p16INK4A/RB pathways, leading to cell cycle arrest. Airway epithelial senescent cells secrete an array of inflammatory mediators, the so-called senescence-associated secretory phenotype (SASP), leading to a persistent low-grade chronic inflammation in COPD. SASP further promotes senescence in an autocrine and paracrine manner, potentially contributing to the onset and progression of COPD. In addition, cellular senescence in COPD airway epithelium is associated with telomere dysfunction, DNA damage, and oxidative stress. This review discusses the potential mechanisms of airway epithelial cell senescence in COPD, the impact of cellular senescence on the development and severity of the disease, and highlights potential targets for modulating cellular senescence in airway epithelium as a potential therapeutic approach in COPD.
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Affiliation(s)
- Georgia Bateman
- Airway Innate Immunity Research Group, Wellcome Wolfson Institute for Experimental Medicine, School of Medicine, Dentistry and Biomedical Sciences, Queens University Belfast, Belfast BT9 7AE, UK
| | - Hong Guo-Parke
- Airway Innate Immunity Research Group, Wellcome Wolfson Institute for Experimental Medicine, School of Medicine, Dentistry and Biomedical Sciences, Queens University Belfast, Belfast BT9 7AE, UK
| | - Aoife M Rodgers
- Airway Innate Immunity Research Group, Wellcome Wolfson Institute for Experimental Medicine, School of Medicine, Dentistry and Biomedical Sciences, Queens University Belfast, Belfast BT9 7AE, UK
| | - Dermot Linden
- Airway Innate Immunity Research Group, Wellcome Wolfson Institute for Experimental Medicine, School of Medicine, Dentistry and Biomedical Sciences, Queens University Belfast, Belfast BT9 7AE, UK
| | - Melanie Bailey
- Department of Respiratory Medicine, Mater Hospital Belfast, Belfast BT14 6AB, UK
| | - Sinéad Weldon
- Airway Innate Immunity Research Group, Wellcome Wolfson Institute for Experimental Medicine, School of Medicine, Dentistry and Biomedical Sciences, Queens University Belfast, Belfast BT9 7AE, UK
| | - Joseph C Kidney
- Department of Respiratory Medicine, Mater Hospital Belfast, Belfast BT14 6AB, UK
| | - Clifford C Taggart
- Airway Innate Immunity Research Group, Wellcome Wolfson Institute for Experimental Medicine, School of Medicine, Dentistry and Biomedical Sciences, Queens University Belfast, Belfast BT9 7AE, UK
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Aksoy O, Lind J, Sunder-Plaßmann V, Vallet S, Podar K. Bone marrow microenvironment- induced regulation of Bcl-2 family members in multiple myeloma (MM): Therapeutic implications. Cytokine 2023; 161:156062. [PMID: 36332463 DOI: 10.1016/j.cyto.2022.156062] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/01/2022] [Revised: 09/19/2022] [Accepted: 09/30/2022] [Indexed: 11/23/2022]
Abstract
In Multiple Myeloma (MM) the finely tuned homeostasis of the bone marrow (BM) microenvironment is disrupted. Evasion of programmed cell death (apoptosis) represents a hallmark of cancer. Besides genetic aberrations, the supportive and protective MM BM milieu, which is constituted by cytokines and growth factors, intercellular and cell: extracellular matrix (ECM) interactions and exosomes, in particular, plays a key role in the abundance of pro-survival members of the Bcl-2 family (i.e., Mcl-1, Bcl-2, and Bcl-xL) in tumor cells. Moreover, microenvironmental cues have also an impact on stability- regulating post-translational modifications of anti-apoptotic proteins including de/phosphorylation, polyubiquitination; on their intracellular binding affinities, and localization. Advances of our molecular knowledge on the escape of cancer cells from apoptosis have informed the development of a new class of small molecules that mimic the action of BH3-only proteins. Indeed, approaches to directly target anti-apoptotic Bcl-2 family members are among today's most promising therapeutic strategies and BH3-mimetics (i.e., venetoclax) are currently revolutionizing not only the treatment of CLL and AML, but also hold great therapeutic promise in MM. Furthermore, approaches that activate apoptotic pathways indirectly via modification of the tumor microenvironment have already entered clinical practice. The present review article will summarize our up-to-date knowledge on molecular mechanisms by which the MM BM microenvironment, cytokines, and growth factors in particular, mediates tumor cell evasion from apoptosis. Moreover, it will discuss some of the most promising science- derived therapeutic strategies to overcome Bcl-2- mediated tumor cell survival in order to further improve MM patient outcome.
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Affiliation(s)
- Osman Aksoy
- Molecular Oncology and Hematology Unit, Karl Landsteiner University of Health Sciences, Dr. Karl-Dorrek-Straße 30, 3500 Krems an der Donau, Austria
| | - Judith Lind
- Molecular Oncology and Hematology Unit, Karl Landsteiner University of Health Sciences, Dr. Karl-Dorrek-Straße 30, 3500 Krems an der Donau, Austria
| | - Vincent Sunder-Plaßmann
- Molecular Oncology and Hematology Unit, Karl Landsteiner University of Health Sciences, Dr. Karl-Dorrek-Straße 30, 3500 Krems an der Donau, Austria
| | - Sonia Vallet
- Molecular Oncology and Hematology Unit, Karl Landsteiner University of Health Sciences, Dr. Karl-Dorrek-Straße 30, 3500 Krems an der Donau, Austria; Department of Internal Medicine 2, University Hospital Krems, Mitterweg 10, 3500 Krems an der Donau, Austria
| | - Klaus Podar
- Molecular Oncology and Hematology Unit, Karl Landsteiner University of Health Sciences, Dr. Karl-Dorrek-Straße 30, 3500 Krems an der Donau, Austria; Department of Internal Medicine 2, University Hospital Krems, Mitterweg 10, 3500 Krems an der Donau, Austria.
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5
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Townsend PA, Kozhevnikova MV, Cexus ONF, Zamyatnin AA, Soond SM. BH3-mimetics: recent developments in cancer therapy. J Exp Clin Cancer Res 2021; 40:355. [PMID: 34753495 PMCID: PMC8576916 DOI: 10.1186/s13046-021-02157-5] [Citation(s) in RCA: 31] [Impact Index Per Article: 10.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/08/2021] [Accepted: 10/26/2021] [Indexed: 01/11/2023] Open
Abstract
The hopeful outcomes from 30 years of research in BH3-mimetics have indeed served a number of solid paradigms for targeting intermediates from the apoptosis pathway in a variety of diseased states. Not only have such rational approaches in drug design yielded several key therapeutics, such outputs have also offered insights into the integrated mechanistic aspects of basic and clinical research at the genetics level for the future. In no other area of medical research have the effects of such work been felt, than in cancer research, through targeting the BAX-Bcl-2 protein-protein interactions. With these promising outputs in mind, several mimetics, and their potential therapeutic applications, have also been developed for several other pathological conditions, such as cardiovascular disease and tissue fibrosis, thus highlighting the universal importance of the intrinsic arm of the apoptosis pathway and its input to general tissue homeostasis. Considering such recent developments, and in a field that has generated so much scientific interest, we take stock of how the broadening area of BH3-mimetics has developed and diversified, with a focus on their uses in single and combined cancer treatment regimens and recently explored therapeutic delivery methods that may aid the development of future therapeutics of this nature.
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Affiliation(s)
- Paul A Townsend
- University of Surrey, Guildford, UK.
- Sechenov First Moscow State Medical University, Moscow, Russian Federation.
- University of Manchester, Manchester, UK.
| | - Maria V Kozhevnikova
- University of Surrey, Guildford, UK
- Sechenov First Moscow State Medical University, Moscow, Russian Federation
| | | | - Andrey A Zamyatnin
- University of Surrey, Guildford, UK
- Sechenov First Moscow State Medical University, Moscow, Russian Federation
- Lomonosov Moscow State University, Moscow, Russian Federation
- Sirius University of Science and Technology, Sochi, Russian Federation
| | - Surinder M Soond
- University of Surrey, Guildford, UK.
- Sechenov First Moscow State Medical University, Moscow, Russian Federation.
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6
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Genomic Abnormalities as Biomarkers and Therapeutic Targets in Acute Myeloid Leukemia. Cancers (Basel) 2021; 13:cancers13205055. [PMID: 34680203 PMCID: PMC8533805 DOI: 10.3390/cancers13205055] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/11/2021] [Revised: 10/01/2021] [Accepted: 10/08/2021] [Indexed: 11/17/2022] Open
Abstract
Simple Summary AML is a heterogenous malignancy with a variety of underlying genomic abnormalities. Some of the genetic aberrations in AML have led to the development of specific inhibitors which were approved by the Food and Drug Administration (FDA) and are currently used to treat eligible patients. In this review, we describe five gene mutations for which approved inhibitors have been developed, the response of AML patients to these inhibitors, and the known mechanism(s) of resistance. This review also highlights the significance of developing function-based screens for target discovery in the era of personalized medicine. Abstract Acute myeloid leukemia (AML) is a highly heterogeneous malignancy characterized by the clonal expansion of myeloid stem and progenitor cells in the bone marrow, peripheral blood, and other tissues. AML results from the acquisition of gene mutations or chromosomal abnormalities that induce proliferation or block differentiation of hematopoietic progenitors. A combination of cytogenetic profiling and gene mutation analyses are essential for the proper diagnosis, classification, prognosis, and treatment of AML. In the present review, we provide a summary of genomic abnormalities in AML that have emerged as both markers of disease and therapeutic targets. We discuss the abnormalities of RARA, FLT3, BCL2, IDH1, and IDH2, their significance as therapeutic targets in AML, and how various mechanisms cause resistance to the currently FDA-approved inhibitors. We also discuss the limitations of current genomic approaches for producing a comprehensive picture of the activated signaling pathways at diagnosis or at relapse in AML patients, and how innovative technologies combining genomic and functional methods will improve the discovery of novel therapeutic targets in AML. The ultimate goal is to optimize a personalized medicine approach for AML patients and possibly those with other types of cancers.
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Evasion of cell death: A contributory factor in prostate cancer development and treatment resistance. Cancer Lett 2021; 520:213-221. [PMID: 34343635 DOI: 10.1016/j.canlet.2021.07.045] [Citation(s) in RCA: 13] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/31/2021] [Revised: 06/17/2021] [Accepted: 07/28/2021] [Indexed: 12/24/2022]
Abstract
Cell death is a natural process in organismal development, homeostasis and response to disease or infection that eliminates unnecessary or potentially dangerous cells and acts as an innate barrier to oncogenesis. Inactivation of cell death is a key step in tumour development and also impedes effective response to cancer therapy. Precise execution of unwanted cells is achieved through regulated cell death processes including the intrinsic apoptotic pathway that is governed by the BCL-2 (B-cell lymphoma 2) protein family. There is compelling evidence that intrinsic apoptosis is defective in prostate cancer, particularly in metastatic and castration resistant advanced disease, currently a lethal diagnosis. New therapeutics have been developed to target pro-survival BCL-2 proteins (including BCL-2, BCL-XL and MCL-1) and show promise in reinstating apoptosis to destroy tumour cells in haematological cancers. Here we discuss perturbation of cell death in prostate cancer and how new therapeutics could improve treatment outcome in prostate cancer.
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Targeting BCL-2 in Cancer: Advances, Challenges, and Perspectives. Cancers (Basel) 2021; 13:cancers13061292. [PMID: 33799470 PMCID: PMC8001391 DOI: 10.3390/cancers13061292] [Citation(s) in RCA: 94] [Impact Index Per Article: 31.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/06/2021] [Revised: 03/08/2021] [Accepted: 03/10/2021] [Indexed: 12/19/2022] Open
Abstract
Simple Summary Apoptosis, a programmed form of cell death, represents the main mechanism by which cells die. Such phenomenon is highly regulated by the BCL-2 family of proteins, which includes both pro-apoptotic and pro-survival proteins. The decision whether cells live or die is tightly controlled by a balance between these two classes of proteins. Notably, the pro-survival Bcl-2 proteins are frequently overexpressed in cancer cells dysregulating this balance in favor of survival and also rendering cells more resistant to therapeutic interventions. In this review, we outlined the most important steps in the development of targeting the BCL-2 survival proteins, which laid the ground for the discovery and the development of the selective BCL-2 inhibitor venetoclax as a therapeutic drug in hematological malignancies. The limitations and future directions are also discussed. Abstract The major form of cell death in normal as well as malignant cells is apoptosis, which is a programmed process highly regulated by the BCL-2 family of proteins. This includes the antiapoptotic proteins (BCL-2, BCL-XL, MCL-1, BCLW, and BFL-1) and the proapoptotic proteins, which can be divided into two groups: the effectors (BAX, BAK, and BOK) and the BH3-only proteins (BIM, BAD, NOXA, PUMA, BID, BIK, HRK). Notably, the BCL-2 antiapoptotic proteins are often overexpressed in malignant cells. While this offers survival advantages to malignant cells and strengthens their drug resistance capacity, it also offers opportunities for novel targeted therapies that selectively kill such cells. This review provides a comprehensive overview of the extensive preclinical and clinical studies targeting BCL-2 proteins with various BCL-2 proteins inhibitors with emphasis on venetoclax as a single agent, as well as in combination with other therapeutic agents. This review also discusses recent advances, challenges focusing on drug resistance, and future perspectives for effective targeting the Bcl-2 family of proteins in cancer.
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Gupta VA, Ackley J, Kaufman JL, Boise LH. BCL2 Family Inhibitors in the Biology and Treatment of Multiple Myeloma. BLOOD AND LYMPHATIC CANCER-TARGETS AND THERAPY 2021; 11:11-24. [PMID: 33737856 PMCID: PMC7965688 DOI: 10.2147/blctt.s245191] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/05/2021] [Accepted: 02/26/2021] [Indexed: 12/12/2022]
Abstract
Although much progress has been made in the treatment of multiple myeloma, the majority of patients fail to be cured and require numerous lines of therapy. Inhibitors of the BCL2 family represent an exciting new class of drugs with a novel mechanism of action that are likely to have activity as single agents and in combination with existing myeloma therapies. The BCL2 proteins are oncogenes that promote cell survival and are frequently upregulated in multiple myeloma, making them attractive targets. Venetoclax, a BCL2 specific inhibitor, is furthest along in development and has shown promising results in a subset of myeloma characterized by the t(11;14) translocation. Combining venetoclax with proteasome inhibitors and monoclonal antibodies has improved responses in a broader group of patients, but has come at the expense of a toxicity safety signal that requires additional follow-up. MCL1 inhibitors are likely to be effective in a broader range of patients and are currently in early clinical trials. This review will cover much of what is known about the biology of these drugs, biomarkers that predict response, mechanisms of resistance, and unanswered questions as they pertain to multiple myeloma.
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Affiliation(s)
- Vikas A Gupta
- Department of Hematology and Medical Oncology, Winship Cancer Institute of Emory University, Emory University School of Medicine, Atlanta, GA, USA
| | - James Ackley
- Cancer Biology Graduate Program, Winship Cancer Institute of Emory University, Emory University School of Medicine, Atlanta, GA, USA
| | - Jonathan L Kaufman
- Department of Hematology and Medical Oncology, Winship Cancer Institute of Emory University, Emory University School of Medicine, Atlanta, GA, USA
| | - Lawrence H Boise
- Department of Hematology and Medical Oncology, Winship Cancer Institute of Emory University, Emory University School of Medicine, Atlanta, GA, USA
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It's time to die: BH3 mimetics in solid tumors. BIOCHIMICA ET BIOPHYSICA ACTA-MOLECULAR CELL RESEARCH 2021; 1868:118987. [PMID: 33600840 DOI: 10.1016/j.bbamcr.2021.118987] [Citation(s) in RCA: 37] [Impact Index Per Article: 12.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/13/2020] [Revised: 01/26/2021] [Accepted: 01/29/2021] [Indexed: 12/31/2022]
Abstract
The removal of cells by apoptosis is an essential process regulating tissue homeostasis. Cancer cells acquire the ability to circumvent apoptosis and survive in an unphysiological tissue context. Thereby, the Bcl-2 protein family plays a key role in the initiation of apoptosis, and overexpression of the anti-apoptotic Bcl-2 proteins is one of the molecular mechanisms protecting cancer cells from apoptosis. Recently, small molecules targeting the anti-apoptotic Bcl-2 family proteins have been identified, and with venetoclax the first of these BH3 mimetics has been approved for the treatment of leukemia. In solid tumors the anti-apoptotic Bcl-2 family proteins Mcl-1 and Bcl-xL are frequently overexpressed or genetically amplified. In this review, we summarize the role of Mcl-1 and Bcl-xL in solid tumors and compare the different BH3 mimetics targeting Mcl-1 or Bcl-xL.
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11
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Diamanti P, Ede BC, Dace PE, Barendt WJ, Cox CV, Hancock JP, Moppett JP, Blair A. Investigating the response of paediatric leukaemia-propagating cells to BCL-2 inhibitors. Br J Haematol 2020; 192:577-588. [PMID: 32452017 PMCID: PMC8237230 DOI: 10.1111/bjh.16773] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/23/2020] [Accepted: 05/01/2020] [Indexed: 12/11/2022]
Abstract
Relapse of paediatric acute lymphoblastic leukaemia (ALL) may occur due to persistence of resistant cells with leukaemia‐propagating ability (LPC). In leukaemia, the balance of B‐cell lymphoma‐2 (BCL‐2) family proteins is disrupted, promoting survival of malignant cells and possibly LPC. A direct comparison of BCL‐2 inhibitors, navitoclax and venetoclax, was undertaken on LPC subpopulations from B‐cell precursor (BCP) and T‐cell ALL (T‐ALL) cases in vitro and in vivo. Responses were compared to BCL‐2 levels detected by microarray analyses and Western blotting. In vitro, both drugs were effective against most BCP‐ALL LPC, except CD34−/CD19− cells. In contrast, only navitoclax was effective in T‐ALL and CD34−/CD7− LPC were resistant to both drugs. In vivo, navitoclax was more effective than venetoclax, significantly improving survival of mice engrafted with BCP‐ and T‐ALL samples. Venetoclax was not particularly effective against T‐ALL cases in vivo. The proportions of CD34+/CD19−, CD34−/CD19− BCP‐ALL cells and CD34−/CD7− T‐ALL cells increased significantly following in vivo treatment. Expression of pro‐apoptotic BCL‐2 genes was lower in these subpopulations, which may explain the lack of sensitivity. These data demonstrate that some LPC were resistant to BCL‐2 inhibitors and sustained remission will require their use in combination with other therapeutics.
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Affiliation(s)
- Paraskevi Diamanti
- Bristol Institute for Transfusion Sciences, NHSBT Filton, Bristol, UK.,School of Cellular and Molecular Medicine, University of Bristol, Bristol, UK
| | - Benjamin C Ede
- School of Cellular and Molecular Medicine, University of Bristol, Bristol, UK
| | - Phoebe Ei Dace
- School of Cellular and Molecular Medicine, University of Bristol, Bristol, UK
| | - William J Barendt
- School of Cellular and Molecular Medicine, University of Bristol, Bristol, UK
| | - Charlotte V Cox
- Bristol Institute for Transfusion Sciences, NHSBT Filton, Bristol, UK
| | - Jeremy P Hancock
- Bristol Genetics Laboratory, Severn Pathology, North Bristol Trust, Bristol, UK
| | - John P Moppett
- School of Cellular and Molecular Medicine, University of Bristol, Bristol, UK.,Bristol Royal Hospital for Children, Bristol, UK
| | - Allison Blair
- Bristol Institute for Transfusion Sciences, NHSBT Filton, Bristol, UK.,School of Cellular and Molecular Medicine, University of Bristol, Bristol, UK
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12
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Opydo-Chanek M, Cichoń I, Rak A, Kołaczkowska E, Mazur L. The pan-Bcl-2 inhibitor obatoclax promotes differentiation and apoptosis of acute myeloid leukemia cells. Invest New Drugs 2020; 38:1664-1676. [PMID: 32367199 PMCID: PMC7575496 DOI: 10.1007/s10637-020-00931-4] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/04/2020] [Accepted: 03/26/2020] [Indexed: 12/19/2022]
Abstract
One of the key features of acute myeloid leukemia (AML) is the arrest of differentiation at the early progenitor stage of myelopoiesis. Therefore, the identification of new agents that could overcome this differentiation block and force leukemic cells to enter the apoptotic pathway is essential for the development of new treatment strategies in AML. Regarding this, herein we report the pro-differentiation activity of the pan-Bcl-2 inhibitor, obatoclax. Obatoclax promoted differentiation of human AML HL-60 cells and triggered their apoptosis in a dose- and time-dependent manner. Importantly, obatoclax-induced apoptosis was associated with leukemic cell differentiation. Moreover, decreased expression of Bcl-2 protein was observed in obatoclax-treated HL-60 cells. Furthermore, differentiation of these cells was accompanied by the loss of their proliferative capacity, as shown by G0/G1 cell cycle arrest. Taken together, these findings indicate that the anti-AML effects of obatoclax involve not only the induction of apoptosis but also differentiation of leukemic cells. Therefore, obatoclax represents a promising treatment for AML that warrants further exploration.
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Affiliation(s)
- Małgorzata Opydo-Chanek
- Department of Experimental Hematology, Institute of Zoology and Biomedical Research, Jagiellonian University, Gronostajowa 9, 30-387, Kraków, Poland.
| | - Iwona Cichoń
- Department of Experimental Hematology, Institute of Zoology and Biomedical Research, Jagiellonian University, Gronostajowa 9, 30-387, Kraków, Poland
| | - Agnieszka Rak
- Department of Physiology and Toxicology of Reproduction, Institute of Zoology and Biomedical Research, Jagiellonian University, Gronostajowa 9, 30-387, Kraków, Poland
| | - Elżbieta Kołaczkowska
- Department of Experimental Hematology, Institute of Zoology and Biomedical Research, Jagiellonian University, Gronostajowa 9, 30-387, Kraków, Poland
| | - Lidia Mazur
- Department of Experimental Hematology, Institute of Zoology and Biomedical Research, Jagiellonian University, Gronostajowa 9, 30-387, Kraków, Poland
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13
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Wei H, Harper MT. Comparison of putative BH3 mimetics AT-101, HA14-1, sabutoclax and TW-37 with ABT-737 in platelets. Platelets 2020; 32:105-112. [PMID: 32079453 DOI: 10.1080/09537104.2020.1724276] [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] [Indexed: 01/09/2023]
Abstract
Platelet lifespan is regulated by intrinsic apoptosis. Platelet apoptosis can be triggered by BH3 mimetics that inhibit the pro-survival Bcl-2 family protein, Bcl-xL. Here, we investigated several small molecules that are reported to act as BH3 mimetics and compared their effects to the well-established BH3 mimetic, ABT-737. Platelet phosphatidylserine (PS) exposure was determined by flow cytometry. Changes in cytosolic Ca2+ signaling were detected using Cal-520. Plasma membrane integrity was determined by calcein leakage. The roles of caspases and calpain in these processes were determined using Q-VD-OPh and calpeptin, respectively. As previously reported, ABT-737 triggered PS exposure in a caspase-dependent manner and calcein loss in a caspase and calpain-dependent manner. In contrast, AT-101 and sabutoclax triggered PS exposure independently of caspases. HA14-1 also triggered PS exposure in a caspase-independent but calpain-dependent manner. There were also significant differences in the pattern and protease-dependency of cytosolic Ca2+ signaling in response to these drugs compared to ABT-737. Since there are clear differences between the action of ABT-737 and the other putative BH3 mimetics investigated here, AT-101, HA14-1 and sabutoclax cannot be considered as acting as BH3 mimetics in platelets. Furthermore, the platelet death caused by these drugs is likely to be distinct from apoptosis.
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Affiliation(s)
- Hao Wei
- Department of Pharmacology, University of Cambridge , Cambridge, UK
| | - Matthew T Harper
- Department of Pharmacology, University of Cambridge , Cambridge, UK
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14
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Future Therapeutic Directions for Smac-Mimetics. Cells 2020; 9:cells9020406. [PMID: 32053868 PMCID: PMC7072318 DOI: 10.3390/cells9020406] [Citation(s) in RCA: 88] [Impact Index Per Article: 22.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/21/2020] [Revised: 02/05/2020] [Accepted: 02/07/2020] [Indexed: 12/15/2022] Open
Abstract
It is well accepted that the ability of cancer cells to circumvent the cell death program that untransformed cells are subject to helps promote tumor growth. Strategies designed to reinstate the cell death program in cancer cells have therefore been investigated for decades. Overexpression of members of the Inhibitor of APoptosis (IAP) protein family is one possible mechanism hindering the death of cancer cells. To promote cell death, drugs that mimic natural IAP antagonists, such as second mitochondria-derived activator of caspases (Smac/DIABLO) were developed. Smac-Mimetics (SMs) have entered clinical trials for hematological and solid cancers, unfortunately with variable and limited results so far. This review explores the use of SMs for the treatment of cancer, their potential to synergize with up-coming treatments and, finally, discusses the challenges and optimism facing this strategy.
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15
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Yang B, Liu Q, Bi Y. Autophagy and apoptosis are regulated by stress on Bcl2 by AMBRA1 in the endoplasmic reticulum and mitochondria. Theor Biol Med Model 2019; 16:18. [PMID: 31665034 PMCID: PMC6819422 DOI: 10.1186/s12976-019-0113-5] [Citation(s) in RCA: 13] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/16/2019] [Accepted: 09/11/2019] [Indexed: 02/06/2023] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Autophagy and apoptosis are two important physiological processes that determine cell survival or death in response to different stress signals. The regulatory mechanisms of these two processes share B-cell lymphoma-2 family proteins and AMBRA1, which are present in both the endoplasmic reticulum and mitochondria. B-cell lymphoma-2 family proteins sense different stresses and interact with AMBRA1 to regulate autophagy and apoptosis, which are respectively mediated by Beclin1 and Caspases. Therefore, we investigated how different levels of stress on B-cell lymphoma-2 family proteins that bind to AMBRA1 in the endoplasmic reticulum and mitochondria regulate the switch from autophagy to apoptosis. METHODS In this paper, we considered the responses of B-cell lymphoma-2 family proteins, which bind to AMBRA1 in both the endoplasmic reticulum and mitochondria, to two different levels of stress in a model originally proposed by Kapuy et al. We investigated how these two stress levels affect the transition from autophagy to apoptosis and their effects on apoptosis activation over time. Additionally, we analyzed how the feedback regulation in this model affects the bifurcation diagrams of two levels of stress and cell fate decisions between autophagy and apoptosis. RESULTS Autophagy is activated for minor stress in mitochondria regardless of endoplasmic reticulum stress, while apoptosis is activated for only significant stress in mitochondria. Apoptosis is only sensitive to mitochondria stress. The time duration before apoptosis activation is longer in the presence of high AMBRA1 levels with high endoplasmic reticulum and mitochondria stress. AMBRA1 can compete with B-cell lymphoma-2 family proteins to bind and activate Beclin1 and thus promote the autophagy process for a long time before apoptosis. Furthermore, apoptosis is prone to occur with increasing activation of Caspases, inactivation of Beclin1-A and the Michaelis constant of Caspases. CONCLUSION A novel mathematical model has been developed to understand the complex regulatory mechanisms of autophagy and apoptosis. Our model may be applied to further autophagy-apoptosis dynamic modeling experiments and simulations.
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Affiliation(s)
- Bojie Yang
- School of Mathematical Sciences, Inner Mongolia University, Hohhot, 010021, China
| | - Quansheng Liu
- School of Mathematical Sciences, Inner Mongolia University, Hohhot, 010021, China.
| | - Yuanhong Bi
- School of Statistics and Mathematics, Inner Mongolia, University of Finance and Economics, Hohhot, 010070, China
- Inner Mongolia Key Laboratory of Economic Data Analysis and Mining, Hohhot, 010070, China
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16
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Hadji A, Schmitt GK, Schnorenberg MR, Roach L, Hickey CM, Leak LB, Tirrell MV, LaBelle JL. Preferential targeting of MCL-1 by a hydrocarbon-stapled BIM BH3 peptide. Oncotarget 2019; 10:6219-6233. [PMID: 31692812 PMCID: PMC6817437 DOI: 10.18632/oncotarget.27262] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/08/2019] [Accepted: 10/04/2019] [Indexed: 11/29/2022] Open
Abstract
BCL-2 family proteins are central regulators of apoptosis and represent prime therapeutic targets for overcoming cell death resistance in malignancies. However, plasticity of anti-apoptotic members, such as MCL-1, often allows for a switch in cell death dependency patterns that lie outside the binding profile of targeted BH3-mimetics. Therefore discovery of therapeutics that effectively inactivate all anti-apoptotic members is a high priority. To address this we tested the potency of a hydrocarbon stapled BIM BH3 peptide (BIM SAHBA) to overcome both BCL-2 and MCL-1 apoptotic resistance given BIM’s naturally wide ranging affinity for all BCL-2 family multidomain members. BIM SAHBA effectively killed diffuse large B-cell lymphoma (DLBCL) cell lines regardless of their anti-apoptotic dependence. Despite BIM BH3’s ability to bind all BCL-2 anti-apoptotic proteins, BIM SAHBA’s dominant intracellular target was MCL-1 and this specificity was exploited in sequenced combination BH3-mimetic treatments targeting BCL-2, BCL-XL, and BCL-W. Extending this MCL-1 functional dependence, mouse embryonic fibroblasts (MEFs) deficient in MCL-1 were resistant to mitochondrial changes induced by BIM SAHBA. This study demonstrates the importance of understanding BH3 mimetic functional intracellular affinities for optimized use and highlights the diagnostic and therapeutic promise of a BIM BH3 peptide mimetic as a potential MCL-1 inhibitor.
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Affiliation(s)
- Abbas Hadji
- Department of Pediatrics, Section of Hematology/Oncology/Stem Cell Transplantation and Committee on Cancer Biology, University of Chicago, Chicago, IL 60637, USA
| | - Greta K Schmitt
- Department of Pediatrics, Section of Hematology/Oncology/Stem Cell Transplantation and Committee on Cancer Biology, University of Chicago, Chicago, IL 60637, USA
| | - Mathew R Schnorenberg
- Department of Pediatrics, Section of Hematology/Oncology/Stem Cell Transplantation and Committee on Cancer Biology, University of Chicago, Chicago, IL 60637, USA.,Pritzker School of Molecular Engineering, University of Chicago, Chicago, IL 60637, USA
| | - Lauren Roach
- Department of Pediatrics, Section of Hematology/Oncology/Stem Cell Transplantation and Committee on Cancer Biology, University of Chicago, Chicago, IL 60637, USA
| | - Connie M Hickey
- Department of Pediatrics, Section of Hematology/Oncology/Stem Cell Transplantation and Committee on Cancer Biology, University of Chicago, Chicago, IL 60637, USA
| | - Logan B Leak
- Department of Pediatrics, Section of Hematology/Oncology/Stem Cell Transplantation and Committee on Cancer Biology, University of Chicago, Chicago, IL 60637, USA
| | - Matthew V Tirrell
- Pritzker School of Molecular Engineering, University of Chicago, Chicago, IL 60637, USA
| | - James L LaBelle
- Department of Pediatrics, Section of Hematology/Oncology/Stem Cell Transplantation and Committee on Cancer Biology, University of Chicago, Chicago, IL 60637, USA
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17
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Targeting cancer's Achilles’ heel: role of BCL-2 inhibitors in cellular senescence and apoptosis. Future Med Chem 2019; 11:2287-2312. [DOI: 10.4155/fmc-2018-0366] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/13/2022] Open
Abstract
Members of the antiapoptotic BCL-2 proteins are involved in tumor growth, progression and survival, and are also responsible for chemoresistance to conventional anticancer agents. Early efforts to target these proteins yielded some active compounds; however, newer methodologies involving structure-based drug design, Nuclear Magnetic Resonance (NMR)-based screening and fragment-based screening yielded more potent compounds. Discovery of specific as well as nonspecific inhibitors of this class of proteins has resulted in great advances in targeted chemotherapy and decrease in chemoresistance. Here, we review the history and current progress in direct as well as selective targeting of the BCL-2 proteins for anticancer therapy.
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18
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Villalobos-Ortiz M, Ryan J, Mashaka TN, Opferman JT, Letai A. BH3 profiling discriminates on-target small molecule BH3 mimetics from putative mimetics. Cell Death Differ 2019; 27:999-1007. [PMID: 31332296 DOI: 10.1038/s41418-019-0391-9] [Citation(s) in RCA: 53] [Impact Index Per Article: 10.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/14/2018] [Revised: 06/20/2019] [Accepted: 06/24/2019] [Indexed: 11/09/2022] Open
Abstract
Inhibition of the anti-apoptotic machinery of cancer cells is a promising therapeutic approach that has driven the development of an important class of compounds termed "BH3 mimetics". These novel small molecules mimic BH3-only proteins by antagonizing the pro-survival function of anti-apoptotic proteins, thereby inducing apoptosis in cancer cells. To qualify as an authentic BH3 mimetic, a compound must function directly on the mitochondria of a cell of known anti-apoptotic dependence, must directly and selectively inhibit the anti-apoptotic protein with high-affinity binding, and must induce mitochondrial outer membrane permeabilization (MOMP) and apoptosis in a BAX/BAK-dependent manner. While many BH3 mimetics have entered clinical trials, the lack of a reliable validation assay to directly test the mitochondrial activity of new BH3 mimetic candidates has resulted in many misleading reports of agents touted as BH3 mimetics despite their off-target mechanisms of action. BH3 profiling probes the activity of a compound at the mitochondrial level by measuring cytochrome c release as a surrogate marker for MOMP. We propose a comprehensive biochemical toolkit consisting of BH3 profiling in parallel with high-throughput Annexin V/Hoechst viability testing to validate BH3 mimetic candidates. We tested our toolkit on eighteen different putative BH3 mimetics using a set of standardized cell lines of known anti-apoptotic dependence. Included in this set of cell lines is an apoptosis refractory BAX/BAK DKO control line to detect compounds that function independently of the BCL-2 family. Taken together, this rapid, efficient means of testing will prove advantageous as the demand for BH3 mimetics increases, particularly in the quest to identify and develop more potent MCL-1 inhibitors for use in the clinic. We strongly urge researchers utilizing BH3 mimetics in their work to use the potent and selective compounds identified with this validation toolkit instead of those lacking such potency and selectivity.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Jeremy Ryan
- Department of Medical Oncology, Dana-Farber Cancer Institute, 02215, Boston, MA, USA
| | - Thelma N Mashaka
- Department of Medical Oncology, Dana-Farber Cancer Institute, 02215, Boston, MA, USA
| | - Joseph T Opferman
- Department of Cell and Molecular Biology, St. Jude Children's Research Hospital, Memphis, TN, USA
| | - Anthony Letai
- Department of Medical Oncology, Dana-Farber Cancer Institute, 02215, Boston, MA, USA. .,Department of Medicine, Brigham and Women's Hospital, Boston, MA, USA. .,Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA, USA. .,Ludwig Center at Harvard, Boston, MA, USA.
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19
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Apogossypol-mediated reorganisation of the endoplasmic reticulum antagonises mitochondrial fission and apoptosis. Cell Death Dis 2019; 10:521. [PMID: 31285422 PMCID: PMC6614446 DOI: 10.1038/s41419-019-1759-y] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/29/2019] [Revised: 06/05/2019] [Accepted: 06/07/2019] [Indexed: 02/04/2023]
Abstract
The endoplasmic reticulum (ER) with its elaborate network of highly curved tubules and flat sheets interacts with several other organelles, including mitochondria, peroxisomes and endosomes, to play vital roles in their membrane dynamics and functions. Previously, we identified structurally diverse chemicals from different pharmacological classes, which induce a reversible reorganisation of ER membranes. Using apogossypol as a prototypic tool compound, we now show that ER membrane reorganisation occurs at the level of ER tubules but does not involve ER sheets. Reorganisation of ER membranes prevents DRP-1-mediated mitochondrial fission, thereby antagonising the functions of several mitochondrial fission-inducing agents. Previous reports have suggested that ER membranes mark the constriction sites of mitochondria by localising DRP-1, as well as BAX on mitochondrial membranes to facilitate both mitochondrial fission and outer membrane permeabilisation. Following ER membrane reorganisation and subsequent exposure to an apoptotic stimulus (BH3 mimetics), DRP-1 still colocalises with the reorganised ER membranes but BAX translocation and activation, cytochrome c release and phosphatidylserine externalisation are all inhibited, thereby diminishing the ability of BH3 mimetics to induce the intrinsic apoptotic pathway. Strikingly, both ER membrane reorganisation and its resulting inhibition of apoptosis could be reversed by inhibitors of dihydroorotate dehydrogenase (DHODH), namely teriflunomide and its active metabolite, leflunomide. However, neither genetic inhibition of DHODH using RNA interference nor metabolic supplementation with orotate or uridine to circumvent the consequences of a loss of DHODH activity rescued the effects of DHODH inhibitors, suggesting that the effects of these inhibitors in preventing ER membrane reorganisation is most likely independent of their ability to antagonise DHODH activity. Our results strengthen the hypothesis that ER is fundamental for key mitochondrial functions, such as fusion-fission dynamics and apoptosis.
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20
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Al-Zebeeby A, Vogler M, Milani M, Richards C, Alotibi A, Greaves G, Dyer MJS, Cohen GM, Varadarajan S. Targeting intermediary metabolism enhances the efficacy of BH3 mimetic therapy in hematologic malignancies. Haematologica 2019; 104:1016-1025. [PMID: 30467206 PMCID: PMC6518917 DOI: 10.3324/haematol.2018.204701] [Citation(s) in RCA: 12] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/16/2018] [Accepted: 11/20/2018] [Indexed: 12/11/2022] Open
Abstract
BH3 mimetics are novel targeted drugs with remarkable specificity, potency and enormous potential to improve cancer therapy. However, acquired resistance is an emerging problem. We report the rapid development of resistance in chronic lymphocytic leukemia cells isolated from patients exposed to increasing doses of navitoclax (ABT-263), a BH3 mimetic. To mimic such rapid development of chemoresistance, we developed simple resistance models to three different BH3 mimetics, targeting BCL-2 (ABT-199), BCL-XL (A-1331852) or MCL-1 (A-1210477), in relevant hematologic cancer cell lines. In these models, resistance could not be attributed to either consistent changes in expression levels of the anti-apoptotic proteins or interactions among different pro- and anti-apoptotic BCL-2 family members. Using genetic silencing, pharmacological inhibition and metabolic supplementation, we found that targeting glutamine uptake and its downstream signaling pathways, namely glutaminolysis, reductive carboxylation, lipogenesis, cholesterogenesis and mammalian target of rapamycin signaling resulted in marked sensitization of the chemoresistant cells to BH3 mimetic-mediated apoptosis. Furthermore, our findings highlight the possibility of repurposing widely used drugs, such as statins, to target intermediary metabolism and improve the efficacy of BH3 mimetic therapy.
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MESH Headings
- Antineoplastic Agents/pharmacology
- Benzothiazoles/pharmacology
- Biomimetics
- Bridged Bicyclo Compounds, Heterocyclic/pharmacology
- Cholesterol/biosynthesis
- Clinical Trials, Phase I as Topic
- Clinical Trials, Phase II as Topic
- Drug Resistance, Neoplasm
- Glutamine/metabolism
- Humans
- Indoles/pharmacology
- Isoquinolines/pharmacology
- Leukemia, Lymphocytic, Chronic, B-Cell/drug therapy
- Leukemia, Lymphocytic, Chronic, B-Cell/metabolism
- Leukemia, Lymphocytic, Chronic, B-Cell/pathology
- Lipogenesis/drug effects
- Myeloid Cell Leukemia Sequence 1 Protein/antagonists & inhibitors
- Neoplasm Recurrence, Local/drug therapy
- Neoplasm Recurrence, Local/metabolism
- Neoplasm Recurrence, Local/pathology
- Peptide Fragments/chemistry
- Proto-Oncogene Proteins/chemistry
- Proto-Oncogene Proteins c-bcl-2/antagonists & inhibitors
- Sulfonamides/pharmacology
- TOR Serine-Threonine Kinases/antagonists & inhibitors
- Tumor Cells, Cultured
- bcl-X Protein/antagonists & inhibitors
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Affiliation(s)
- Aoula Al-Zebeeby
- Department of Molecular and Clinical Cancer Medicine, Institute of Translational Medicine, University of Liverpool, UK
| | - Meike Vogler
- Institute for Experimental Cancer Research in Pediatrics, Goethe-University, Frankfurt, Germany
| | - Mateus Milani
- Department of Molecular and Clinical Cancer Medicine, Institute of Translational Medicine, University of Liverpool, UK
| | - Caitlin Richards
- Department of Molecular and Clinical Cancer Medicine, Institute of Translational Medicine, University of Liverpool, UK
| | - Ahoud Alotibi
- Department of Molecular and Clinical Cancer Medicine, Institute of Translational Medicine, University of Liverpool, UK
| | - Georgia Greaves
- Department of Molecular and Clinical Cancer Medicine, Institute of Translational Medicine, University of Liverpool, UK
| | - Martin J S Dyer
- Ernest and Helen Scott Haematological Research Institute, Leicester Cancer Research Centre, University of Leicester, Leicester Royal Infirmary, UK
| | - Gerald M Cohen
- Department of Molecular and Clinical Cancer Medicine, Institute of Translational Medicine, University of Liverpool, UK
- Department of Molecular and Clinical Cancer Pharmacology, Institute of Translational Medicine, University of Liverpool, UK
| | - Shankar Varadarajan
- Department of Molecular and Clinical Cancer Medicine, Institute of Translational Medicine, University of Liverpool, UK
- Department of Molecular and Clinical Cancer Pharmacology, Institute of Translational Medicine, University of Liverpool, UK
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21
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Slomp A, Peperzak V. Role and Regulation of Pro-survival BCL-2 Proteins in Multiple Myeloma. Front Oncol 2018; 8:533. [PMID: 30524962 PMCID: PMC6256118 DOI: 10.3389/fonc.2018.00533] [Citation(s) in RCA: 38] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/07/2018] [Accepted: 10/30/2018] [Indexed: 12/12/2022] Open
Abstract
Apoptosis plays a key role in protection against genomic instability and maintaining tissue homeostasis, and also shapes humoral immune responses. During generation of an antibody response, multiple rounds of B-cell expansion and selection take place in germinal centers (GC) before high antigen affinity memory B-cells and long-lived plasma cells (PC) are produced. These processes are tightly regulated by the intrinsic apoptosis pathway, and malignant transformation throughout and following the GC reaction is often characterized by apoptosis resistance. Expression of pro-survival BCL-2 family protein MCL-1 is essential for survival of malignant PC in multiple myeloma (MM). In addition, BCL-2 and BCL-XL contribute to apoptosis resistance. MCL-1, BCL-2, and BCL-XL expression is induced and maintained by signals from the bone marrow microenvironment, but overexpression can also result from genetic lesions. Since MM PC depend on these proteins for survival, inhibiting pro-survival BCL-2 proteins using novel and highly specific BH3-mimetic inhibitors is a promising strategy for treatment. This review addresses the role and regulation of pro-survival BCL-2 family proteins during healthy PC differentiation and in MM, as well as their potential as therapeutic targets.
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Affiliation(s)
- Anne Slomp
- Laboratory of Translational Immunology, University Medical Center Utrecht, Utrecht University, Utrecht, Netherlands
| | - Victor Peperzak
- Laboratory of Translational Immunology, University Medical Center Utrecht, Utrecht University, Utrecht, Netherlands
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22
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Chen Y, Peubez C, Smith V, Xiong S, Kocsis-Fodor G, Kennedy B, Wagner S, Balotis C, Jayne S, Dyer MJS, Macip S. CUDC-907 blocks multiple pro-survival signals and abrogates microenvironment protection in CLL. J Cell Mol Med 2018; 23:340-348. [PMID: 30353642 PMCID: PMC6307843 DOI: 10.1111/jcmm.13935] [Citation(s) in RCA: 20] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/03/2018] [Revised: 08/08/2018] [Accepted: 09/03/2018] [Indexed: 12/27/2022] Open
Abstract
CUDC‐907, a dual PI3K/HDAC inhibitor, has been proposed to have therapeutic potential in hematopoietic malignancies. However, the molecular mechanisms of its effects in chronic lymphocytic leukaemia (CLL) remain elusive. We show that CLL cells are sensitive to CUDC‐907, even under conditions similar to the protective microenvironment of proliferation centres. CUDC‐907 inhibited PI3K/AKT and HDAC activity, as expected, but also suppressed RAF/MEK/ERK and STAT3 signalling and reduced the expression of anti‐apoptotic BCL‐2 family proteins BCL‐2, BCL‐xL, and MCL‐1. Moreover, CUDC‐907 downregulated cytokines BAFF and APRIL and their receptors BAFFR, TACI, and BCMA, thus blocking BAFF‐induced NF‐κB signalling. T cell chemokines CCL3/4/17/22 and phosphorylation of CXCR4 were also reduced by CUDC‐907. These data indicated that CUDC‐907 abrogates different protective signals and suggested that it might sensitize CLL cells to other drugs. Indeed, combinations of low concentrations of CUDC‐907 with inhibitors of BCL2, BTK, or the NF‐κB pathway showed a potent synergistic effect. Our data indicate that, apart from its known functions, CUDC‐907 blocks multiple pro‐survival pathways to overcome microenvironment protection in CLL cells. This provides a rationale to evaluate the clinical relevance of CUDC‐907 in combination therapies with other targeted inhibitors.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yixiang Chen
- Mechanisms of Cancer and Ageing Laboratory, Department of Molecular and Cell Biology, University of Leicester, Leicester, UK.,Ernest and Helen Scott Haematological Research Institute, University of Leicester, Leicester, UK.,Medical College, Henan University of Science and Technology, Luoyang, China
| | - Chloé Peubez
- Mechanisms of Cancer and Ageing Laboratory, Department of Molecular and Cell Biology, University of Leicester, Leicester, UK.,Ernest and Helen Scott Haematological Research Institute, University of Leicester, Leicester, UK
| | - Victoria Smith
- Mechanisms of Cancer and Ageing Laboratory, Department of Molecular and Cell Biology, University of Leicester, Leicester, UK.,Ernest and Helen Scott Haematological Research Institute, University of Leicester, Leicester, UK
| | - Shiqiu Xiong
- Ernest and Helen Scott Haematological Research Institute, University of Leicester, Leicester, UK.,Department of Cancer Studies, University of Leicester, Leicester, UK
| | - Gabriella Kocsis-Fodor
- Mechanisms of Cancer and Ageing Laboratory, Department of Molecular and Cell Biology, University of Leicester, Leicester, UK.,Ernest and Helen Scott Haematological Research Institute, University of Leicester, Leicester, UK
| | - Ben Kennedy
- Department of Haematology, University Hospitals of Leicester, Leicester, UK
| | - Simon Wagner
- Department of Haematology, University Hospitals of Leicester, Leicester, UK
| | | | - Sandrine Jayne
- Ernest and Helen Scott Haematological Research Institute, University of Leicester, Leicester, UK.,Department of Cancer Studies, University of Leicester, Leicester, UK
| | - Martin J S Dyer
- Ernest and Helen Scott Haematological Research Institute, University of Leicester, Leicester, UK.,Department of Cancer Studies, University of Leicester, Leicester, UK
| | - Salvador Macip
- Mechanisms of Cancer and Ageing Laboratory, Department of Molecular and Cell Biology, University of Leicester, Leicester, UK.,Ernest and Helen Scott Haematological Research Institute, University of Leicester, Leicester, UK
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23
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Shakeel E, Sharma N, Akhtar S, Khan MKA, Lohani M, Siddiqui MH. Decoding the antineoplastic efficacy of Aplysin targeting Bcl-2: A de novo perspective. Comput Biol Chem 2018; 77:390-401. [PMID: 30469054 DOI: 10.1016/j.compbiolchem.2018.09.003] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/09/2018] [Revised: 08/28/2018] [Accepted: 09/02/2018] [Indexed: 12/24/2022]
Abstract
The B-cell lymphoma-2 (Bcl-2) family proteins have been attributed to be the key regulators in programmed cell death and apoptosis with a prominent role in human cancer. Understanding the fundamental principles of cell survival and death have been the main cornerstone in cancer drug discovery for identification of novel anticancer agents. In this context the Bcl-2 family of anti-and pro-apoptotic proteins provide an excellent opportunity for development of anticancer agents, as blocking the Bcl-2 or Bcl-XL functionally promotes apoptosis in tumor cells and also sensitize them to chemo- and radiotherapies. The present study reports the identification of novel Aplysin analogs as BCL-2 inhibitors from a sequential virtual screening approach using drug-like, ADMET, docking, pharmacophore filters and molecular dynamics simulation. We identified promising Aplysin analogs that have a potential to be Bcl-2 inhibitors just like the standard drug Obatoclax. One of the compound analog 11 was identified to be a promising inhibitor of Bcl-2 in the docking, pharmacophore and simulation based models.The molecular modeling information provided here can be vital in designing of the novel Bcl-2 inhibitors.
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Affiliation(s)
- Eram Shakeel
- Advanced Centre for Bioengineering and Bioinformatics (ACBB), Integral Information and Research Centre (IIRC), Integral University, Lucknow, Uttar Pradesh, 226026, India; Department of Bioengineering, Faculty of Engineering, Integral University, Lucknow, Uttar Pradesh, 226026, India
| | - Neha Sharma
- Advanced Centre for Bioengineering and Bioinformatics (ACBB), Integral Information and Research Centre (IIRC), Integral University, Lucknow, Uttar Pradesh, 226026, India; Department of Bioengineering, Faculty of Engineering, Integral University, Lucknow, Uttar Pradesh, 226026, India
| | - Salman Akhtar
- Advanced Centre for Bioengineering and Bioinformatics (ACBB), Integral Information and Research Centre (IIRC), Integral University, Lucknow, Uttar Pradesh, 226026, India; Department of Bioengineering, Faculty of Engineering, Integral University, Lucknow, Uttar Pradesh, 226026, India
| | - Mohd Kalim Ahmad Khan
- Advanced Centre for Bioengineering and Bioinformatics (ACBB), Integral Information and Research Centre (IIRC), Integral University, Lucknow, Uttar Pradesh, 226026, India; Department of Bioengineering, Faculty of Engineering, Integral University, Lucknow, Uttar Pradesh, 226026, India
| | - Mohtashim Lohani
- Department of EMS, College of Applied Medical Sciences, University of Jazan, Saudi Arabia
| | - Mohd Haris Siddiqui
- Advanced Centre for Bioengineering and Bioinformatics (ACBB), Integral Information and Research Centre (IIRC), Integral University, Lucknow, Uttar Pradesh, 226026, India; Department of Bioengineering, Faculty of Engineering, Integral University, Lucknow, Uttar Pradesh, 226026, India.
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BCL-2 inhibition in AML: an unexpected bonus? Blood 2018; 132:1007-1012. [PMID: 30037885 DOI: 10.1182/blood-2018-03-828269] [Citation(s) in RCA: 110] [Impact Index Per Article: 18.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/16/2018] [Accepted: 07/06/2018] [Indexed: 11/20/2022] Open
Abstract
B-cell lymphoma 2 (BCL-2) was discovered at the breakpoint of the t(14;18) in follicular lymphoma >30 years ago. Although inhibition of BCL-2 first proved valuable in lymphoid malignancies, clinical progress in myeloid malignancies lagged. Here, we summarize the basic biology and preclinical results that spurred clinical BCL-2 inhibition in acute myeloid leukemia (AML). Response rates and toxicity for venetoclax in combination with standard AML agents, such as azacitidine, decitabine, and low-dose cytarabine, compare favorably with conventional induction chemotherapy. Durability of response requires further study.
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25
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Timucin AC, Basaga H, Kutuk O. Selective targeting of antiapoptotic BCL-2 proteins in cancer. Med Res Rev 2018; 39:146-175. [DOI: 10.1002/med.21516] [Citation(s) in RCA: 42] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/21/2017] [Revised: 05/05/2018] [Accepted: 05/12/2018] [Indexed: 12/11/2022]
Affiliation(s)
- Ahmet Can Timucin
- Faculty of Engineering and Natural Sciences, Department of Chemical and Biological Engineering; Uskudar University; Uskudar Istanbul Turkey
- Faculty of Engineering and Natural Sciences, Molecular Biology, Genetics and Bioengineering Program; Sabanci University; Tuzla Istanbul Turkey
| | - Huveyda Basaga
- Faculty of Engineering and Natural Sciences, Molecular Biology, Genetics and Bioengineering Program; Sabanci University; Tuzla Istanbul Turkey
| | - Ozgur Kutuk
- Department of Medical Genetics; Adana Medical and Research Center; School of Medicine, Baskent University; Yuregir Adana Turkey
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Wu S, Yang Y, Li F, Huang L, Han Z, Wang G, Yu H, Li H. Chelerythrine induced cell death through ROS-dependent ER stress in human prostate cancer cells. Onco Targets Ther 2018; 11:2593-2601. [PMID: 29780252 PMCID: PMC5951218 DOI: 10.2147/ott.s157707] [Citation(s) in RCA: 26] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/23/2022] Open
Abstract
INTRODUCTION Prostate cancer is the most common noncutaneous cancer and the second leading cause of cancer-related mortality worldwide and the third in USA in 2017. Chelerythrine (CHE), a naturalbenzo[c]phenanthridine alkaloid, formerly identified as a protein kinase C inhibitor, has also shown anticancer effect through a number of mechanisms. Herein, effect and mechanism of the CHE-induced apoptosis via reactive oxygen species (ROS)-mediated endoplasmic reticulum (ER) stress in prostate cancer cells were studied for the first time. METHODS In our present study, we investigated whether CHE induced cell viability decrease, colony formation inhibition, and apoptosis in a dose-dependent manner in PC-3 cells. In addition, we showed that CHE increases intracellular ROS and leads to ROS-dependent ER stress and cell apoptosis. RESULTS Pre-treatment with N-acetyl cysteine, an ROS scavenger, totally reversed the CHE-induced cancer cell apoptosis as well as ER stress activation, suggesting that the ROS generation was responsible for the anticancer effects of CHE. CONCLUSION Taken together, our findings support one of the anticancer mechanisms by which CHE increased ROS accumulation in prostate cancer cells, thereby leading to ER stress and caused intrinsic apoptotic signaling. The study reveals that CHE could be a potential candidate for application in the treatment of prostate cancer.
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Affiliation(s)
- Songjiang Wu
- Department of Urology, Enze Hospital of Taizhou Enze Medical Center (Group), Taizhou, China
| | - Yanying Yang
- Department of Urology, Enze Hospital of Taizhou Enze Medical Center (Group), Taizhou, China
| | - Feiping Li
- Department of Urology, Enze Hospital of Taizhou Enze Medical Center (Group), Taizhou, China
| | - Lifu Huang
- Department of Urology, Enze Hospital of Taizhou Enze Medical Center (Group), Taizhou, China
| | - Zihua Han
- Department of Urology, Enze Hospital of Taizhou Enze Medical Center (Group), Taizhou, China
| | - Guanfu Wang
- Department of Urology, Enze Hospital of Taizhou Enze Medical Center (Group), Taizhou, China
| | - Hongyuan Yu
- Department of Urology, Enze Hospital of Taizhou Enze Medical Center (Group), Taizhou, China
| | - Haiping Li
- Department of Urology, Enze Hospital of Taizhou Enze Medical Center (Group), Taizhou, China
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Bcl-2 inhibitors as anti-cancer therapeutics: The impact of and on calcium signaling. Cell Calcium 2018; 70:102-116. [DOI: 10.1016/j.ceca.2017.05.014] [Citation(s) in RCA: 29] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/28/2017] [Revised: 05/24/2017] [Accepted: 05/24/2017] [Indexed: 01/08/2023]
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Eastman A. Improving anticancer drug development begins with cell culture: misinformation perpetrated by the misuse of cytotoxicity assays. Oncotarget 2018; 8:8854-8866. [PMID: 27750219 PMCID: PMC5352448 DOI: 10.18632/oncotarget.12673] [Citation(s) in RCA: 71] [Impact Index Per Article: 11.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/05/2016] [Accepted: 10/12/2016] [Indexed: 11/25/2022] Open
Abstract
The high failure rate of anticancer drug discovery and development has consumed billions of dollars annually. While many explanations have been provided, I believe that misinformation arising from inappropriate cell-based screens has been completely over-looked. Most cell culture experiments are irrelevant to how drugs are subsequently administered to patients. Usually, drug development focuses on growth inhibition rather than cell killing. Drugs are selected based on continuous incubation of cells, then frequently administered to the patient as a bolus. Target identification and validation is often performed by gene suppression that inevitably mimics continuous target inhibition. Drug concentrations in vitro frequently far exceed in vivo concentrations. Studies of drug synergy are performed at sub-optimal concentrations. And the focus on a limited number of cell lines can misrepresent the potential efficacy in a patient population. The intent of this review is to encourage more appropriate experimental design and data interpretation, and to improve drug development in the area of cell-based assays. Application of these principles should greatly enhance the successful translation of novel drugs to the patient.
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Affiliation(s)
- Alan Eastman
- Norris Cotton Cancer Center, Geisel School of Medicine at Dartmouth, Lebanon, NH, USA
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Obatoclax impairs lysosomal function to block autophagy in cisplatin-sensitive and -resistant esophageal cancer cells. Oncotarget 2018; 7:14693-707. [PMID: 26910910 PMCID: PMC4924745 DOI: 10.18632/oncotarget.7492] [Citation(s) in RCA: 25] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/08/2015] [Accepted: 12/29/2015] [Indexed: 12/13/2022] Open
Abstract
Obatoclax, a pan-inhibitor of anti-apoptotic Bcl-2 proteins, exhibits cytotoxic effect on cancer cells through both apoptosis-dependent and -independent pathways. Here we show that obatoclax caused cytotoxicity in both cisplatin-sensitive and -resistant esophageal cancer cells. Although obatoclax showed differential apoptogenic effects in these cells, it consistently blocked autophagic flux, which was evidenced by concomitant accumulation of LC3-II and p62. Obatoclax was trapped in lysosomes and induced lysosome clustering. Obatoclax also substantially reduced the expression of lysosomal cathepsins B, D and L. Moreover, cathepsin knockdown was sufficient to induce cytotoxicity, connecting lysosomal function to cell viability. Consistent with the known function of autophagy, obatoclax caused the accumulation of polyubiquitinated proteins and showed synergy with proteasome inhibition. Taken together, our studies unveiled impaired lysosomal function as a novel mechanism whereby obatoclax mediates its cytotoxic effect in esophageal cancer cells.
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30
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Chen Y, Chen S, Liang H, Yang H, Liu L, Zhou K, Xu L, Liu J, Yun L, Lai B, Song L, Luo H, Peng J, Liu Z, Xiao Y, Chen W, Tang H. Bcl-2 protects TK6 cells against hydroquinone-induced apoptosis through PARP-1 cytoplasm translocation and stabilizing mitochondrial membrane potential. ENVIRONMENTAL AND MOLECULAR MUTAGENESIS 2018; 59:49-59. [PMID: 28843007 DOI: 10.1002/em.22126] [Citation(s) in RCA: 15] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/21/2017] [Revised: 07/25/2017] [Accepted: 07/26/2017] [Indexed: 06/07/2023]
Abstract
B cell leukemia/lymphoma-2 (Bcl-2) suppresses apoptosis by binding the BH3 domain of proapoptotic factors and thereby regulating mitochondrial membrane potential (MMP). This study aimed to investigate the role of Bcl-2 in controlling the mitochondrial pathway of apoptosis during hydroquinone (HQ)-induced TK6 cytotoxicity. In this study, HQ, one metabolite of benzene, decreased the MMP in a concentration-dependent manner and induced the generation of reactive oxygen species (ROS), the activation of the DNA damage marker γ-H2AX, and production of the DNA damage-responsive enzyme poly(ADP-ribose)polymerase-1 (PARP-1). Exposure of TK6 cells to HQ leads to an increase in Bcl-2 and co-localization with PARP-1 in the cytoplasm. Inhibition of Bcl-2 using the BH3 mimetic, ABT-737, suppressed the PARP-1 nuclear to cytoplasm translocation and sensitized TK6 cells to HQ-induced apoptosis through depolarization of the MMP. Western blot analysis indicated that ABT-737 combined with HQ increased the levels of cleaved PARP and γ-H2AX, but significantly decreased the level of P53. Thus, ABT-737 can influence PARP-1 translocation and induce apoptosis via mitochondria-mediated apoptotic pathway, independently of P53. In addition, we found that knockdown of PARP-1 attenuated the HQ-induced production of cleaved PARP and P53. These results identify Bcl-2 as a protective mediator of HQ-induced apoptosis and show that upregulation of Bcl-2 helps to localize PARP-1 to the cytoplasm and stabilize MMP. Environ. Mol. Mutagen. 59:49-59, 2018. © 2017 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yuting Chen
- Department of Environmental and Occupational Health, Dongguan Key Laboratory of Environmental Medicine, School of Public Health, Guangdong Medical University, Dongguan, 523808, China
| | - Shaoyun Chen
- Department of Environmental and Occupational Health, Dongguan Key Laboratory of Environmental Medicine, School of Public Health, Guangdong Medical University, Dongguan, 523808, China
| | - Hairong Liang
- Department of Environmental and Occupational Health, Dongguan Key Laboratory of Environmental Medicine, School of Public Health, Guangdong Medical University, Dongguan, 523808, China
| | - Hui Yang
- Department of Environmental and Occupational Health, Dongguan Key Laboratory of Environmental Medicine, School of Public Health, Guangdong Medical University, Dongguan, 523808, China
| | - Linhua Liu
- Department of Environmental and Occupational Health, Dongguan Key Laboratory of Environmental Medicine, School of Public Health, Guangdong Medical University, Dongguan, 523808, China
| | - Kairu Zhou
- Department of Environmental and Occupational Health, Dongguan Key Laboratory of Environmental Medicine, School of Public Health, Guangdong Medical University, Dongguan, 523808, China
| | - Longmei Xu
- Department of Environmental and Occupational Health, Dongguan Key Laboratory of Environmental Medicine, School of Public Health, Guangdong Medical University, Dongguan, 523808, China
| | - Jiaxian Liu
- Department of Environmental and Occupational Health, Dongguan Key Laboratory of Environmental Medicine, School of Public Health, Guangdong Medical University, Dongguan, 523808, China
| | - Lin Yun
- Department of Environmental and Occupational Health, Dongguan Key Laboratory of Environmental Medicine, School of Public Health, Guangdong Medical University, Dongguan, 523808, China
| | - Bei Lai
- Department of Environmental and Occupational Health, Dongguan Key Laboratory of Environmental Medicine, School of Public Health, Guangdong Medical University, Dongguan, 523808, China
| | - Li Song
- Department of Environmental and Occupational Health, Dongguan Key Laboratory of Environmental Medicine, School of Public Health, Guangdong Medical University, Dongguan, 523808, China
| | - Hao Luo
- Department of Environmental and Occupational Health, Dongguan Key Laboratory of Environmental Medicine, School of Public Health, Guangdong Medical University, Dongguan, 523808, China
| | - Jianming Peng
- Huizhou Prevention and Treatment Centre for Occupational Disease, Huizhou, 516000, China
| | - Zhidong Liu
- Huizhou Prevention and Treatment Centre for Occupational Disease, Huizhou, 516000, China
| | - Yongmei Xiao
- Guangzhou Key Laboratory of Environmental Pollution and Health Risk Assessment, Department of Toxicology, School of Public Health, Sun Yat-sen University, Guangzhou, 510080, China
| | - Wen Chen
- Guangzhou Key Laboratory of Environmental Pollution and Health Risk Assessment, Department of Toxicology, School of Public Health, Sun Yat-sen University, Guangzhou, 510080, China
| | - Huanwen Tang
- Department of Environmental and Occupational Health, Dongguan Key Laboratory of Environmental Medicine, School of Public Health, Guangdong Medical University, Dongguan, 523808, China
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Robak P, Robak T. Novel synthetic drugs currently in clinical development for chronic lymphocytic leukemia. Expert Opin Investig Drugs 2017; 26:1249-1265. [PMID: 28942659 DOI: 10.1080/13543784.2017.1384814] [Citation(s) in RCA: 21] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/18/2022]
Abstract
INTRODUCTION Over the last few years, several new synthetic drugs, particularly Bruton's tyrosine kinase (BTK), phosphatidylinositol 3-kinase (PI3K) and BCL-2 inhibitors have been developed and investigated in chronic lymphocytic leukemia (CLL). Areas covered: This review highlights key aspects of BTK, PI3K and BCL-2 inhibitors that are currently at various stages of preclinical and clinical development in CLL. A literature review of the MEDLINE database for articles in English concerning CLL, B-cell receptor, BCL-2 antagonists, BTK inhibitors and PI3K inhibitors, was conducted via PubMed. Publications from 2000 through July 2017 were scrutinized. The search terms used were acalabrutinib, ACP-196, BGB-3111, ONO-4059, GS-4059, duvelisib, IPI-145, TGR-1202, copanlisib, Bay 80-6946, buparlisib, BKM-120, BCL-2 inhibitors, venetoclax, ABT-263, navitoclax, CDK inhibitors, alvocidib, flavopiridol, dinaciclib, SCH 727,965, palbociclib, PD-0332991, in conjunction with CLL. Conference proceedings from the previous five years of the ASH and EHA Annual Scientific Meetings were searched manually. Additional relevant publications were obtained by reviewing the references from the chosen articles. Expert opinion: The use of new synthetic drugs is a promising strategy for the treatment of CLL. Data from ongoing and future clinical trials will aid in better defining the status of new drugs in the treatment of CLL.
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Affiliation(s)
- Pawel Robak
- a Department of Experimental Hematology , Medical University of Lodz , Lodz , Poland
| | - Tadeusz Robak
- b Department of Hematology , Medical University of Lodz , Lodz , Poland
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Abstract
The approval of venetoclax, a 'BH3-mimetic' antagonist of the BCL-2 anti-apoptotic protein, for chronic lymphocytic leukemia represents a major milestone in translational apoptosis research. Venetoclax has already received 'breakthrough' designation for acute myeloid leukemia, and is being studied in many other tumor types. However, resistance to BCL-2 inhibitor monotherapy may rapidly ensue. Several studies have shown that the other two major anti-apoptotic BCL-2 family proteins, BCL-XL and MCL-1, are the main determinants of resistance to venetoclax. This opens up possibilities for rationally combining venetoclax with other targeted agents to circumvent resistance. Here, we summarize the most promising combinations, and highlight those already in clinical trials. There is also increasing recognition that different tumors display different degrees of addiction to individual BCL-2 family proteins, and of the need to refine current 'BH3 profiling' techniques. Finally, the successful clinical development of potent and selective antagonists of BCL-XL and MCL-1 is eagerly awaited.
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MESH Headings
- Animals
- Antineoplastic Agents/pharmacology
- Antineoplastic Agents/therapeutic use
- Antineoplastic Combined Chemotherapy Protocols/adverse effects
- Antineoplastic Combined Chemotherapy Protocols/therapeutic use
- Apoptosis/drug effects
- Apoptosis/genetics
- Biomimetics
- Bridged Bicyclo Compounds, Heterocyclic/pharmacology
- Bridged Bicyclo Compounds, Heterocyclic/therapeutic use
- Clinical Trials as Topic
- Drug Discovery
- Drug Resistance, Neoplasm/genetics
- Humans
- Leukemia, Lymphocytic, Chronic, B-Cell/drug therapy
- Leukemia, Lymphocytic, Chronic, B-Cell/genetics
- Leukemia, Lymphocytic, Chronic, B-Cell/metabolism
- Myeloid Cell Leukemia Sequence 1 Protein/antagonists & inhibitors
- Myeloid Cell Leukemia Sequence 1 Protein/genetics
- Myeloid Cell Leukemia Sequence 1 Protein/metabolism
- Neoplasms/drug therapy
- Neoplasms/genetics
- Neoplasms/metabolism
- Peptide Fragments/pharmacology
- Peptide Fragments/therapeutic use
- Proto-Oncogene Proteins/pharmacology
- Proto-Oncogene Proteins/therapeutic use
- Proto-Oncogene Proteins c-bcl-2/antagonists & inhibitors
- Proto-Oncogene Proteins c-bcl-2/chemistry
- Proto-Oncogene Proteins c-bcl-2/metabolism
- Sulfonamides/pharmacology
- Sulfonamides/therapeutic use
- bcl-X Protein/antagonists & inhibitors
- bcl-X Protein/genetics
- bcl-X Protein/metabolism
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Affiliation(s)
- Prithviraj Bose
- a Department of Leukemia , University of Texas MD Anderson Cancer Center , Houston , TX , USA
| | - Varsha Gandhi
- a Department of Leukemia , University of Texas MD Anderson Cancer Center , Houston , TX , USA
- b Department of Experimental Therapeutics , University of Texas MD Anderson Cancer Center , Houston , TX , USA
| | - Marina Konopleva
- a Department of Leukemia , University of Texas MD Anderson Cancer Center , Houston , TX , USA
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33
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Wolf P. BH3 Mimetics for the Treatment of Prostate Cancer. Front Pharmacol 2017; 8:557. [PMID: 28868037 PMCID: PMC5563364 DOI: 10.3389/fphar.2017.00557] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/26/2017] [Accepted: 08/07/2017] [Indexed: 12/11/2022] Open
Abstract
Despite improved diagnostic and therapeutic intervention, advanced prostate cancer (PC) remains incurable. The acquired resistance of PC cells to current treatment protocols has been traced to apoptosis resistance based on the upregulation of anti-apoptotic proteins of the Bcl-2 family. The use of BH3 mimetics, mimicking pro-apoptotic activator or sensitizer proteins of the intrinsic apoptotic pathway, is therefore a promising treatment strategy. The present review gives an overview of preclinical and clinical studies with pan- and specific BH3 mimetics as sensitizers for cell death and gives an outlook how they could be effectively used for the therapy of advanced PC in future.
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Affiliation(s)
- Philipp Wolf
- Department of Urology, Medical Center - University of Freiburg, Faculty of Medicine, University of FreiburgFreiburg, Germany
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34
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Vogler M, Walter HS, Dyer MJS. Targeting anti-apoptotic BCL2 family proteins in haematological malignancies - from pathogenesis to treatment. Br J Haematol 2017; 178:364-379. [DOI: 10.1111/bjh.14684] [Citation(s) in RCA: 58] [Impact Index Per Article: 8.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/15/2022]
Affiliation(s)
- Meike Vogler
- Department of Molecular and Cell Biology; University of Leicester; Leicester UK
- Institute for Experimental Cancer Research in Paediatrics; Goethe-University; Frankfurt Germany
| | - Harriet S. Walter
- Ernest and Helen Scott Haematological Research Institute; University of Leicester; Leicester UK
| | - Martin J. S. Dyer
- Ernest and Helen Scott Haematological Research Institute; University of Leicester; Leicester UK
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35
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El-Hachem N, Gendoo DMA, Ghoraie LS, Safikhani Z, Smirnov P, Chung C, Deng K, Fang A, Birkwood E, Ho C, Isserlin R, Bader GD, Goldenberg A, Haibe-Kains B. Integrative Cancer Pharmacogenomics to Infer Large-Scale Drug Taxonomy. Cancer Res 2017; 77:3057-3069. [PMID: 28314784 DOI: 10.1158/0008-5472.can-17-0096] [Citation(s) in RCA: 23] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/17/2017] [Revised: 02/27/2017] [Accepted: 03/13/2017] [Indexed: 11/16/2022]
Abstract
Identification of drug targets and mechanism of action (MoA) for new and uncharacterized anticancer drugs is important for optimization of treatment efficacy. Current MoA prediction largely relies on prior information including side effects, therapeutic indication, and chemoinformatics. Such information is not transferable or applicable for newly identified, previously uncharacterized small molecules. Therefore, a shift in the paradigm of MoA predictions is necessary toward development of unbiased approaches that can elucidate drug relationships and efficiently classify new compounds with basic input data. We propose here a new integrative computational pharmacogenomic approach, referred to as Drug Network Fusion (DNF), to infer scalable drug taxonomies that rely only on basic drug characteristics toward elucidating drug-drug relationships. DNF is the first framework to integrate drug structural information, high-throughput drug perturbation, and drug sensitivity profiles, enabling drug classification of new experimental compounds with minimal prior information. DNF taxonomy succeeded in identifying pertinent and novel drug-drug relationships, making it suitable for investigating experimental drugs with potential new targets or MoA. The scalability of DNF facilitated identification of key drug relationships across different drug categories, providing a flexible tool for potential clinical applications in precision medicine. Our results support DNF as a valuable resource to the cancer research community by providing new hypotheses on compound MoA and potential insights for drug repurposing. Cancer Res; 77(11); 3057-69. ©2017 AACR.
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Affiliation(s)
- Nehme El-Hachem
- Integrative Computational Systems Biology, Institut de Recherches Cliniques de Montréal, Montreal, Quebec, Canada.,Department of Biomedical Sciences. Université de Montréal, Montreal, Quebec, Canada
| | - Deena M A Gendoo
- Princess Margaret Cancer Centre, University Health Network, Toronto, Ontario, Canada.,Department of Medical Biophysics, University of Toronto, Toronto, Ontario, Canada
| | - Laleh Soltan Ghoraie
- Princess Margaret Cancer Centre, University Health Network, Toronto, Ontario, Canada.,Department of Medical Biophysics, University of Toronto, Toronto, Ontario, Canada
| | - Zhaleh Safikhani
- Princess Margaret Cancer Centre, University Health Network, Toronto, Ontario, Canada.,Department of Medical Biophysics, University of Toronto, Toronto, Ontario, Canada
| | - Petr Smirnov
- Princess Margaret Cancer Centre, University Health Network, Toronto, Ontario, Canada
| | - Christina Chung
- Department of Computer Science, University of Toronto, Toronto, Ontario, Canada
| | - Kenan Deng
- Department of Computer Science, University of Toronto, Toronto, Ontario, Canada
| | - Ailsa Fang
- Department of Computer Science, University of Toronto, Toronto, Ontario, Canada
| | - Erin Birkwood
- School of Computer Science, McGill University, Montreal, Quebec, Canada
| | - Chantal Ho
- Department of Computer Science, University of Toronto, Toronto, Ontario, Canada
| | - Ruth Isserlin
- Department of Computer Science, University of Toronto, Toronto, Ontario, Canada
| | - Gary D Bader
- Department of Computer Science, University of Toronto, Toronto, Ontario, Canada.,The Donnelly Centre, Toronto, Ontario, Canada.,The Lunenfeld-Tanenbaum Research Institute, Mount Sinai Hospital, Toronto, Ontario, Canada
| | - Anna Goldenberg
- Department of Computer Science, University of Toronto, Toronto, Ontario, Canada.,Hospital for Sick Children, Toronto, Ontario, Canada
| | - Benjamin Haibe-Kains
- Princess Margaret Cancer Centre, University Health Network, Toronto, Ontario, Canada. .,Department of Medical Biophysics, University of Toronto, Toronto, Ontario, Canada.,Department of Computer Science, University of Toronto, Toronto, Ontario, Canada.,Ontario Institute of Cancer Research, Toronto, Ontario, Canada
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36
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Opydo-Chanek M, Gonzalo O, Marzo I. Multifaceted anticancer activity of BH3 mimetics: Current evidence and future prospects. Biochem Pharmacol 2017; 136:12-23. [PMID: 28288819 DOI: 10.1016/j.bcp.2017.03.006] [Citation(s) in RCA: 47] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/23/2016] [Accepted: 03/06/2017] [Indexed: 12/19/2022]
Abstract
BH3 mimetics are a novel class of anticancer agents designed to specifically target pro-survival proteins of the Bcl-2 family. Like endogenous BH3-only proteins, BH3 mimetics competitively bind to surface hydrophobic grooves of pro-survival Bcl-2 family members, counteracting their protective effects and thus facilitating apoptosis in cancer cells. Among the small-molecule BH3 mimetics identified, ABT-737 and its analogs, obatoclax as well as gossypol derivatives are the best characterized. The anticancer potential of these compounds applied as a single agent or in combination with chemotherapeutic drugs is currently being evaluated in preclinical studies and in clinical trials. In spite of promising results, the actual mechanisms of their anticancer action remain to be identified. Findings from preclinical studies point to additional activities of BH3 mimetics in cancer cells that are not connected with apoptosis induction. These off-target effects involve induction of autophagy and necrotic cell death as well as modulation of the cell cycle and multiple cell signaling pathways. For the optimization and clinical implementation of BH3 mimetics, a detailed understanding of their role as inhibitors of the pro-survival Bcl-2 proteins, but also of their possible additional effects is required. This review summarizes the most representative BH3 mimetic compounds with emphasis on their off-target effects. Based on the present knowledge on the multifaceted effects of BH3 mimetics on cancer cells, the commentary outlines the potential pitfalls and highlights the considerable promise for cancer treatment with BH3 mimetics.
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Affiliation(s)
- Małgorzata Opydo-Chanek
- Department of Experimental Hematology, Institute of Zoology, Jagiellonian University in Kraków, Poland.
| | - Oscar Gonzalo
- Department of Biochemistry, Molecular and Cell Biology, IIS, University of Zaragoza, Spain
| | - Isabel Marzo
- Department of Biochemistry, Molecular and Cell Biology, IIS, University of Zaragoza, Spain
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37
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BH3 mimetic-elicited Ca 2+ signals in pancreatic acinar cells are dependent on Bax and can be reduced by Ca 2+-like peptides. Cell Death Dis 2017; 8:e2640. [PMID: 28252652 PMCID: PMC5386550 DOI: 10.1038/cddis.2017.41] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/12/2016] [Revised: 12/20/2016] [Accepted: 01/11/2017] [Indexed: 02/07/2023]
Abstract
BH3 mimetics are small-molecule inhibitors of B-cell lymphoma-2 (Bcl-2) and Bcl-xL, which disrupt the heterodimerisation of anti- and pro-apoptotic Bcl-2 family members sensitising cells to apoptotic death. These compounds have been developed as anti-cancer agents to counteract increased levels of Bcl-2 proteins often present in cancer cells. Application of a chemotherapeutic drug supported with a BH3 mimetic has the potential to overcome drug resistance in cancers overexpressing anti-apoptotic Bcl-2 proteins and thus increase the success rate of the treatment. We have previously shown that the BH3 mimetics, BH3I-2' and HA14-1, induce Ca2+ release from intracellular stores followed by a sustained elevation of the cytosolic Ca2+ concentration. Here we demonstrate that loss of Bax, but not Bcl-2 or Bak, inhibits this sustained Ca2+ elevation. What is more, in the absence of Bax, thapsigargin-elicited responses were decreased; and in two-photon-permeabilised bax-/- cells, Ca2+ loss from the ER was reduced compared to WT cells. The Ca2+-like peptides, CALP-1 and CALP-3, which activate EF hand motifs of Ca2+-binding proteins, significantly reduced excessive Ca2+ signals and necrosis caused by two BH3 mimetics: BH3I-2' and gossypol. In the presence of CALP-1, cell death was shifted from necrotic towards apoptotic, whereas CALP-3 increased the proportion of live cells. Importantly, neither of the CALPs markedly affected physiological Ca2+ signals elicited by ACh, or cholecystokinin. In conclusion, the reduction in passive ER Ca2+ leak in bax-/- cells as well as the fact that BH3 mimetics trigger substantial Ca2+ signals by liberating Bax, indicate that Bax may regulate Ca2+ leak channels in the ER. This study also demonstrates proof-of-principle that pre-activation of EF hand Ca2+-binding sites by CALPs can be used to ameliorate excessive Ca2+ signals caused by BH3 mimetics and shift necrotic death towards apoptosis.
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38
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Wei WJ, Sun ZK, Shen CT, Song HJ, Zhang XY, Qiu ZL, Luo QY. Obatoclax and LY3009120 Efficiently Overcome Vemurafenib Resistance in Differentiated Thyroid Cancer. Am J Cancer Res 2017; 7:987-1001. [PMID: 28382170 PMCID: PMC5381260 DOI: 10.7150/thno.17322] [Citation(s) in RCA: 27] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/23/2016] [Accepted: 12/31/2016] [Indexed: 12/11/2022] Open
Abstract
Although the prognosis of differentiated thyroid cancer (DTC) is relatively good, 30-40% of patients with distant metastases develop resistance to radioactive iodine therapy due to tumor dedifferentiation. For DTC patients harboring BRAFV600E mutation, Vemurafenib, a BRAF kinase inhibitor, has dramatically changed the therapeutic landscape, but side effects and drug resistance often lead to termination of the single agent treatment. In the present study, we showed that either LY3009120 or Obatoclax (GX15-070) efficiently inhibited cell cycle progression and induced massive death of DTC cells. We established that BRAF/CRAF dimerization was an underlying mechanism for Vemurafenib resistance. LY3009120, the newly discovered pan-RAF inhibitor, successfully overcame Vemurafenib resistance and suppressed the growth of DTC cells in vitro and in vivo. We also observed that expression of anti-apoptotic Bcl-2 increased substantially following BRAF inhibitor treatment in Vemurafenib-resistant K1 cells, and both Obatoclax and LY3009120 efficiently induced apoptosis of these resistant cells. Specifically, Obatoclax exerted its anti-cancer activity by inducing loss of mitochondrial membrane potential (ΔΨm), dysfunction of mitochondrial respiration, reduction of cellular glycolysis, autophagy, neutralization of lysosomes, and caspase-related apoptosis. Furthermore, the cancer killing effects of LY3009120 and Obatoclax extended to two more Vemurafenib-resistant DTC cell lines, KTC-1 and BCPAP. Taken together, our results highlighted the potential value of LY3009120 for both Vemurafenib-sensitive and -resistant DTC and provided evidence for the combination therapy using Vemurafenib and Obatoclax for radioiodine-refractory DTC.
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Lim IK, Choi JA, Kim EY, Kim BN, Jang S, Ryu MS, Shim SH. TIS21/BTG2 inhibits doxorubicin-induced stress fiber-vimentin networks via Nox4-ROS-ABI2-DRF-linked signal cascade. Cell Signal 2017; 30:179-190. [DOI: 10.1016/j.cellsig.2016.12.001] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/19/2016] [Revised: 11/11/2016] [Accepted: 12/04/2016] [Indexed: 01/28/2023]
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40
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Yap JL, Chen L, Lanning ME, Fletcher S. Expanding the Cancer Arsenal with Targeted Therapies: Disarmament of the Antiapoptotic Bcl-2 Proteins by Small Molecules. J Med Chem 2016; 60:821-838. [PMID: 27749061 DOI: 10.1021/acs.jmedchem.5b01888] [Citation(s) in RCA: 74] [Impact Index Per Article: 9.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/29/2022]
Abstract
A hallmark of cancer is the evasion of apoptosis, which is often associated with the upregulation of the antiapoptotic members of the Bcl-2 family of proteins. The prosurvival function of the antiapoptotic Bcl-2 proteins is manifested by capturing and neutralizing the proapoptotic Bcl-2 proteins via their BH3 death domains. Accordingly, strategies to antagonize the antiapoptotic Bcl-2 proteins have largely focused on the development of low-molecular-weight, synthetic BH3 mimetics ("magic bullets") to disrupt the protein-protein interactions between anti- and proapoptotic Bcl-2 proteins. In this way, apoptosis has been reactivated in malignant cells. Moreover, several such Bcl-2 family inhibitors are presently being evaluated for a range of cancers in clinical trials and show great promise as new additions to the cancer armamentarium. Indeed, the selective Bcl-2 inhibitor venetoclax (Venclexta) recently received FDA approval for the treatment of a specific subset of patients with chronic lymphocytic leukemia. This review focuses on the major developments in the field of Bcl-2 inhibitors over the past decade, with particular emphasis on binding modes and, thus, the origins of selectivity for specific Bcl-2 family members.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jeremy L Yap
- Department of Pharmaceutical Sciences, University of Maryland School of Pharmacy , 20 N. Pine Street, Baltimore, Maryland 21201, United States
| | - Lijia Chen
- Department of Pharmaceutical Sciences, University of Maryland School of Pharmacy , 20 N. Pine Street, Baltimore, Maryland 21201, United States
| | - Maryanna E Lanning
- Department of Pharmaceutical Sciences, University of Maryland School of Pharmacy , 20 N. Pine Street, Baltimore, Maryland 21201, United States
| | - Steven Fletcher
- Department of Pharmaceutical Sciences, University of Maryland School of Pharmacy , 20 N. Pine Street, Baltimore, Maryland 21201, United States.,University of Maryland Greenebaum Cancer Center , Baltimore, Maryland 21201, United States
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Abstract
The BCL2-selective BH3 mimetic venetoclax was recently approved for the treatment of relapsed, chromosome 17p-deleted chronic lymphocytic leukemia (CLL) and is undergoing extensive testing, alone and in combination, in lymphomas, acute leukemias, and solid tumors. Here we summarize recent advances in understanding of the biology of BCL2 family members that shed light on the action of BH3 mimetics, review preclinical and clinical studies leading to the regulatory approval of venetoclax, and discuss future investigation of this new class of antineoplastic agent.
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Affiliation(s)
- Haiming Dai
- Division of Oncology Research , Mayo Clinic, Rochester, MN, 55905, USA.,Department of Molecular Pharmacology & Experimental Therapeutics, Mayo Clinic, Rochester, MN, 55905, USA.,Center for Medical Physics and Technology, Hefei Institute of Physical Science, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Hefei, 230031, China
| | - X Wei Meng
- Division of Oncology Research , Mayo Clinic, Rochester, MN, 55905, USA.,Department of Molecular Pharmacology & Experimental Therapeutics, Mayo Clinic, Rochester, MN, 55905, USA
| | - Scott H Kaufmann
- Division of Oncology Research , Mayo Clinic, Rochester, MN, 55905, USA.,Department of Molecular Pharmacology & Experimental Therapeutics, Mayo Clinic, Rochester, MN, 55905, USA
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42
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Ding H, Peterson KL, Correia C, Koh B, Schneider PA, Nowakowski GS, Kaufmann SH. Histone deacetylase inhibitors interrupt HSP90•RASGRP1 and HSP90•CRAF interactions to upregulate BIM and circumvent drug resistance in lymphoma cells. Leukemia 2016; 31:1593-1602. [PMID: 27890930 PMCID: PMC5474223 DOI: 10.1038/leu.2016.357] [Citation(s) in RCA: 24] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/18/2016] [Revised: 10/29/2016] [Accepted: 11/07/2016] [Indexed: 12/23/2022]
Abstract
Histone deacetylase (HDAC) inhibitors, which are approved for the treatment of cutaneous T cell lymphoma and multiple myeloma, are undergoing evaluation in other lymphoid neoplasms. How they kill susceptible cells is incompletely understood. Here we show that trichostatin A, romidepsin, and panobinostat induce apoptosis across a panel of malignant B cell lines, including lines that are intrinsically resistant to bortezomib, etoposide, cytarabine, and BH3 mimetics. Further analysis traces the pro-apoptotic effects of HDAC inhibitors to increased acetylation of the chaperone heat shock protein 90 (HSP90), causing release and degradation of the HSP90 client proteins RASGRP1 and CRAF, which in turn leads to downregulation of mitogen activated protein kinase pathway signaling and upregulation of the pro-apoptotic BCL2 family member BIM in vitro and in vivo. Importantly, these pro-apoptotic effects are mimicked by RASGRP1 siRNA or HSP90 inhibition and reversed by overexpression of constitutively active MEK1 or siRNA-mediated downregulation of BIM. Collectively, these observations not only identify a new HSP90 client protein, RASGRP1, but also delineate a complete signaling pathway from HSP90 acetylation through RASGRP1 and CRAF degradation to BIM upregulation that contributes to selective cytotoxicity of HDAC inhibitors in lymphoid malignancies.
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Affiliation(s)
- H Ding
- Division of Oncology Research, Department of Oncology, Mayo Clinic College of Medicine, Rochester, MN, USA.,Department of Molecular Pharmacology and Experimental Therapeutics, Mayo Clinic College of Medicine, Rochester, MN, USA
| | - K L Peterson
- Division of Oncology Research, Department of Oncology, Mayo Clinic College of Medicine, Rochester, MN, USA
| | - C Correia
- Division of Oncology Research, Department of Oncology, Mayo Clinic College of Medicine, Rochester, MN, USA.,Department of Molecular Pharmacology and Experimental Therapeutics, Mayo Clinic College of Medicine, Rochester, MN, USA
| | - B Koh
- Division of Oncology Research, Department of Oncology, Mayo Clinic College of Medicine, Rochester, MN, USA
| | - P A Schneider
- Division of Oncology Research, Department of Oncology, Mayo Clinic College of Medicine, Rochester, MN, USA
| | - G S Nowakowski
- Division of Hematology, Department of Medicine, Mayo Clinic College of Medicine, Rochester, MN, USA
| | - S H Kaufmann
- Division of Oncology Research, Department of Oncology, Mayo Clinic College of Medicine, Rochester, MN, USA.,Department of Molecular Pharmacology and Experimental Therapeutics, Mayo Clinic College of Medicine, Rochester, MN, USA.,Division of Hematology, Department of Medicine, Mayo Clinic College of Medicine, Rochester, MN, USA
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43
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Song T, Wang Z, Zhang Z. Substituted indole Mcl-1 inhibitors: a patent evaluation (WO2015148854A1). Expert Opin Ther Pat 2016; 26:1227-1238. [DOI: 10.1080/13543776.2016.1240786] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 02/08/2023]
Affiliation(s)
- Ting Song
- State Key Laboratory of Fine Chemicals, School of Chemistry, Dalian University of Technology, Dalian, China
| | - Ziqian Wang
- State Key Laboratory of Fine Chemicals, School of Chemistry, Dalian University of Technology, Dalian, China
| | - Zhichao Zhang
- State Key Laboratory of Fine Chemicals, School of Chemistry, Dalian University of Technology, Dalian, China
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Polley E, Kunkel M, Evans D, Silvers T, Delosh R, Laudeman J, Ogle C, Reinhart R, Selby M, Connelly J, Harris E, Fer N, Sonkin D, Kaur G, Monks A, Malik S, Morris J, Teicher BA. Small Cell Lung Cancer Screen of Oncology Drugs, Investigational Agents, and Gene and microRNA Expression. J Natl Cancer Inst 2016; 108:djw122. [PMID: 27247353 PMCID: PMC6279282 DOI: 10.1093/jnci/djw122] [Citation(s) in RCA: 117] [Impact Index Per Article: 14.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/15/2015] [Revised: 02/29/2016] [Accepted: 03/23/2016] [Indexed: 02/06/2023] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Small cell lung carcinoma (SCLC) is an aggressive, recalcitrant cancer, often metastatic at diagnosis and unresponsive to chemotherapy upon recurrence, thus it is challenging to treat. METHODS Sixty-three human SCLC lines and three NSCLC lines were screened for response to 103 US Food and Drug Administration-approved oncology agents and 423 investigational agents. The investigational agents library was a diverse set of small molecules that included multiple compounds targeting the same molecular entity. The compounds were screened in triplicate at nine concentrations with a 96-hour exposure time using an ATP Lite endpoint. Gene expression was assessed by exon array, and microRNA expression was derived by direct digital detection. Activity across the SCLC lines was associated with molecular characteristics using pair-wise Pearson correlations. RESULTS Results are presented for inhibitors of targets: BCL2, PARP1, mTOR, IGF1R, KSP/Eg5, PLK-1, AURK, and FGFR1. A relational map identified compounds with similar patterns of response. Unsupervised microRNA clustering resulted in three distinct SCLC subgroups. Associating drug response with micro-RNA expression indicated that lines most sensitive to etoposide and topotecan expressed high miR-200c-3p and low miR-140-5p and miR-9-5p. The BCL-2/BCL-XL inhibitors produced similar response patterns. Sensitivity to ABT-737 correlated with higher ASCL1 and BCL2. Several classes of compounds targeting nuclear proteins regulating mitosis produced a response pattern distinct from the etoposide response pattern. CONCLUSIONS Agents targeting nuclear kinases appear to be effective in SCLC lines. Confirmation of SCLC line findings in xenografts is needed. The drug and compound response, gene expression, and microRNA expression data are publicly available at http://sclccelllines.cancer.gov.
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Affiliation(s)
- Eric Polley
- Affiliations of authors:
Molecular Pharmacology Group, Leidos Biomedical Research, Inc., Frederick National Laboratory for Cancer Research, Frederick, MD (DE, TS, RD, JL, CO, RR, MS, JC, EH, NF, AM); Developmental Therapeutics Program, Division of Cancer Treatment and Diagnosis (MK, GK, JM, BAT), Biometric Research Program, Division of Cancer Treatment and Diagnosis (EP, DS), and Cancer Therapy Evaluation Program (SM), National Cancer Institute, Rockville, MD
| | - Mark Kunkel
- Affiliations of authors:
Molecular Pharmacology Group, Leidos Biomedical Research, Inc., Frederick National Laboratory for Cancer Research, Frederick, MD (DE, TS, RD, JL, CO, RR, MS, JC, EH, NF, AM); Developmental Therapeutics Program, Division of Cancer Treatment and Diagnosis (MK, GK, JM, BAT), Biometric Research Program, Division of Cancer Treatment and Diagnosis (EP, DS), and Cancer Therapy Evaluation Program (SM), National Cancer Institute, Rockville, MD
| | - David Evans
- Affiliations of authors:
Molecular Pharmacology Group, Leidos Biomedical Research, Inc., Frederick National Laboratory for Cancer Research, Frederick, MD (DE, TS, RD, JL, CO, RR, MS, JC, EH, NF, AM); Developmental Therapeutics Program, Division of Cancer Treatment and Diagnosis (MK, GK, JM, BAT), Biometric Research Program, Division of Cancer Treatment and Diagnosis (EP, DS), and Cancer Therapy Evaluation Program (SM), National Cancer Institute, Rockville, MD
| | - Thomas Silvers
- Affiliations of authors:
Molecular Pharmacology Group, Leidos Biomedical Research, Inc., Frederick National Laboratory for Cancer Research, Frederick, MD (DE, TS, RD, JL, CO, RR, MS, JC, EH, NF, AM); Developmental Therapeutics Program, Division of Cancer Treatment and Diagnosis (MK, GK, JM, BAT), Biometric Research Program, Division of Cancer Treatment and Diagnosis (EP, DS), and Cancer Therapy Evaluation Program (SM), National Cancer Institute, Rockville, MD
| | - Rene Delosh
- Affiliations of authors:
Molecular Pharmacology Group, Leidos Biomedical Research, Inc., Frederick National Laboratory for Cancer Research, Frederick, MD (DE, TS, RD, JL, CO, RR, MS, JC, EH, NF, AM); Developmental Therapeutics Program, Division of Cancer Treatment and Diagnosis (MK, GK, JM, BAT), Biometric Research Program, Division of Cancer Treatment and Diagnosis (EP, DS), and Cancer Therapy Evaluation Program (SM), National Cancer Institute, Rockville, MD
| | - Julie Laudeman
- Affiliations of authors:
Molecular Pharmacology Group, Leidos Biomedical Research, Inc., Frederick National Laboratory for Cancer Research, Frederick, MD (DE, TS, RD, JL, CO, RR, MS, JC, EH, NF, AM); Developmental Therapeutics Program, Division of Cancer Treatment and Diagnosis (MK, GK, JM, BAT), Biometric Research Program, Division of Cancer Treatment and Diagnosis (EP, DS), and Cancer Therapy Evaluation Program (SM), National Cancer Institute, Rockville, MD
| | - Chad Ogle
- Affiliations of authors:
Molecular Pharmacology Group, Leidos Biomedical Research, Inc., Frederick National Laboratory for Cancer Research, Frederick, MD (DE, TS, RD, JL, CO, RR, MS, JC, EH, NF, AM); Developmental Therapeutics Program, Division of Cancer Treatment and Diagnosis (MK, GK, JM, BAT), Biometric Research Program, Division of Cancer Treatment and Diagnosis (EP, DS), and Cancer Therapy Evaluation Program (SM), National Cancer Institute, Rockville, MD
| | - Russell Reinhart
- Affiliations of authors:
Molecular Pharmacology Group, Leidos Biomedical Research, Inc., Frederick National Laboratory for Cancer Research, Frederick, MD (DE, TS, RD, JL, CO, RR, MS, JC, EH, NF, AM); Developmental Therapeutics Program, Division of Cancer Treatment and Diagnosis (MK, GK, JM, BAT), Biometric Research Program, Division of Cancer Treatment and Diagnosis (EP, DS), and Cancer Therapy Evaluation Program (SM), National Cancer Institute, Rockville, MD
| | - Michael Selby
- Affiliations of authors:
Molecular Pharmacology Group, Leidos Biomedical Research, Inc., Frederick National Laboratory for Cancer Research, Frederick, MD (DE, TS, RD, JL, CO, RR, MS, JC, EH, NF, AM); Developmental Therapeutics Program, Division of Cancer Treatment and Diagnosis (MK, GK, JM, BAT), Biometric Research Program, Division of Cancer Treatment and Diagnosis (EP, DS), and Cancer Therapy Evaluation Program (SM), National Cancer Institute, Rockville, MD
| | - John Connelly
- Affiliations of authors:
Molecular Pharmacology Group, Leidos Biomedical Research, Inc., Frederick National Laboratory for Cancer Research, Frederick, MD (DE, TS, RD, JL, CO, RR, MS, JC, EH, NF, AM); Developmental Therapeutics Program, Division of Cancer Treatment and Diagnosis (MK, GK, JM, BAT), Biometric Research Program, Division of Cancer Treatment and Diagnosis (EP, DS), and Cancer Therapy Evaluation Program (SM), National Cancer Institute, Rockville, MD
| | - Erik Harris
- Affiliations of authors:
Molecular Pharmacology Group, Leidos Biomedical Research, Inc., Frederick National Laboratory for Cancer Research, Frederick, MD (DE, TS, RD, JL, CO, RR, MS, JC, EH, NF, AM); Developmental Therapeutics Program, Division of Cancer Treatment and Diagnosis (MK, GK, JM, BAT), Biometric Research Program, Division of Cancer Treatment and Diagnosis (EP, DS), and Cancer Therapy Evaluation Program (SM), National Cancer Institute, Rockville, MD
| | - Nicole Fer
- Affiliations of authors:
Molecular Pharmacology Group, Leidos Biomedical Research, Inc., Frederick National Laboratory for Cancer Research, Frederick, MD (DE, TS, RD, JL, CO, RR, MS, JC, EH, NF, AM); Developmental Therapeutics Program, Division of Cancer Treatment and Diagnosis (MK, GK, JM, BAT), Biometric Research Program, Division of Cancer Treatment and Diagnosis (EP, DS), and Cancer Therapy Evaluation Program (SM), National Cancer Institute, Rockville, MD
| | - Dmitriy Sonkin
- Affiliations of authors:
Molecular Pharmacology Group, Leidos Biomedical Research, Inc., Frederick National Laboratory for Cancer Research, Frederick, MD (DE, TS, RD, JL, CO, RR, MS, JC, EH, NF, AM); Developmental Therapeutics Program, Division of Cancer Treatment and Diagnosis (MK, GK, JM, BAT), Biometric Research Program, Division of Cancer Treatment and Diagnosis (EP, DS), and Cancer Therapy Evaluation Program (SM), National Cancer Institute, Rockville, MD
| | - Gurmeet Kaur
- Affiliations of authors:
Molecular Pharmacology Group, Leidos Biomedical Research, Inc., Frederick National Laboratory for Cancer Research, Frederick, MD (DE, TS, RD, JL, CO, RR, MS, JC, EH, NF, AM); Developmental Therapeutics Program, Division of Cancer Treatment and Diagnosis (MK, GK, JM, BAT), Biometric Research Program, Division of Cancer Treatment and Diagnosis (EP, DS), and Cancer Therapy Evaluation Program (SM), National Cancer Institute, Rockville, MD
| | - Anne Monks
- Affiliations of authors:
Molecular Pharmacology Group, Leidos Biomedical Research, Inc., Frederick National Laboratory for Cancer Research, Frederick, MD (DE, TS, RD, JL, CO, RR, MS, JC, EH, NF, AM); Developmental Therapeutics Program, Division of Cancer Treatment and Diagnosis (MK, GK, JM, BAT), Biometric Research Program, Division of Cancer Treatment and Diagnosis (EP, DS), and Cancer Therapy Evaluation Program (SM), National Cancer Institute, Rockville, MD
| | - Shakun Malik
- Affiliations of authors:
Molecular Pharmacology Group, Leidos Biomedical Research, Inc., Frederick National Laboratory for Cancer Research, Frederick, MD (DE, TS, RD, JL, CO, RR, MS, JC, EH, NF, AM); Developmental Therapeutics Program, Division of Cancer Treatment and Diagnosis (MK, GK, JM, BAT), Biometric Research Program, Division of Cancer Treatment and Diagnosis (EP, DS), and Cancer Therapy Evaluation Program (SM), National Cancer Institute, Rockville, MD
| | - Joel Morris
- Affiliations of authors:
Molecular Pharmacology Group, Leidos Biomedical Research, Inc., Frederick National Laboratory for Cancer Research, Frederick, MD (DE, TS, RD, JL, CO, RR, MS, JC, EH, NF, AM); Developmental Therapeutics Program, Division of Cancer Treatment and Diagnosis (MK, GK, JM, BAT), Biometric Research Program, Division of Cancer Treatment and Diagnosis (EP, DS), and Cancer Therapy Evaluation Program (SM), National Cancer Institute, Rockville, MD
| | - Beverly A. Teicher
- Affiliations of authors:
Molecular Pharmacology Group, Leidos Biomedical Research, Inc., Frederick National Laboratory for Cancer Research, Frederick, MD (DE, TS, RD, JL, CO, RR, MS, JC, EH, NF, AM); Developmental Therapeutics Program, Division of Cancer Treatment and Diagnosis (MK, GK, JM, BAT), Biometric Research Program, Division of Cancer Treatment and Diagnosis (EP, DS), and Cancer Therapy Evaluation Program (SM), National Cancer Institute, Rockville, MD
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45
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Chitalia A, Ujjani C. Prospect & progress of venetoclax in treating chronic lymphocytic leukemia. Expert Opin Orphan Drugs 2016. [DOI: 10.1080/21678707.2016.1230059] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/21/2022]
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46
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Gibson CJ, Davids MS. BCL-2 Antagonism to Target the Intrinsic Mitochondrial Pathway of Apoptosis. Clin Cancer Res 2016; 21:5021-9. [PMID: 26567361 DOI: 10.1158/1078-0432.ccr-15-0364] [Citation(s) in RCA: 72] [Impact Index Per Article: 9.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/20/2023]
Abstract
Despite significant improvements in treatment, cure rates for many cancers remain suboptimal. The rise of cytotoxic chemotherapy has led to curative therapy for a subset of cancers, though intrinsic treatment resistance is difficult to predict for individual patients. The recent wave of molecularly targeted therapies has focused on druggable-activating mutations, and is thus limited to specific subsets of patients. The lessons learned from these two disparate approaches suggest the need for therapies that borrow aspects of both, targeting biologic properties of cancer that are at once distinct from normal cells and yet common enough to make the drugs widely applicable across a range of cancer subtypes. The intrinsic mitochondrial pathway of apoptosis represents one such promising target for new therapies, and successfully targeting this pathway has the potential to alter the therapeutic landscape of therapy for a variety of cancers. Here, we discuss the biology of the intrinsic pathway of apoptosis, an assay known as BH3 profiling that can interrogate this pathway, early attempts to target BCL-2 clinically, and the recent promising results with the BCL-2 antagonist venetoclax (ABT-199) in clinical trials in hematologic malignancies. See all articles in this CCR Focus section, "Cell Death and Cancer Therapy."
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Affiliation(s)
- Christopher J Gibson
- Department of Medical Oncology, Dana-Farber Cancer Institute, Boston, Massachusetts
| | - Matthew S Davids
- Department of Medical Oncology, Dana-Farber Cancer Institute, Boston, Massachusetts.
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S Soderquist R, Eastman A. BCL2 Inhibitors as Anticancer Drugs: A Plethora of Misleading BH3 Mimetics. Mol Cancer Ther 2016; 15:2011-7. [PMID: 27535975 DOI: 10.1158/1535-7163.mct-16-0031] [Citation(s) in RCA: 91] [Impact Index Per Article: 11.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/20/2016] [Accepted: 05/18/2016] [Indexed: 11/16/2022]
Abstract
Antiapoptotic BCL2 proteins play a major role in tumor cell survival. Hence, BCL2 inhibitors have been developed as direct inducers of apoptosis. ABT-199 (venetoclax) received breakthrough therapy designation from the FDA due to its apparent efficacy in CLL and AML. However, resistance to ABT-199 is mediated by other BCL2 proteins including BCLXL and MCL1. Considerable effort has been expended seeking novel "BH3 mimetics" that inhibit all of these BCL2 proteins. While many BH3 mimetics inhibit BCL2 proteins in vitro, they fail to directly inhibit them in intact cells. Many BH3 mimetics induce the unfolded protein response culminating in induction of the proapoptotic protein NOXA, which in turn inhibits MCL1. We propose simple experiments to validate BH3 mimetics in cells. A true BCL2 inhibitor will rapidly induce apoptosis in chronic lymphocytic leukemia cells ex vivo A BCLXL inhibitor will rapidly induce apoptosis in platelets. Finally, a BH3 mimetic targeting MCL1 will inhibit its degradation thereby inducing rapid MCL1 accumulation. Compounds that fail these tests should no longer be called BH3 mimetics. We now have a toolbox of selective inhibitors for most of the BCL2 proteins, and we hope these new tools will lead to effective treatment options for many cancers. Mol Cancer Ther; 15(9); 2011-7. ©2016 AACR.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ryan S Soderquist
- Norris Cotton Cancer Center, Geisel School of Medicine at Dartmouth, Hanover, New Hampshire
| | - Alan Eastman
- Norris Cotton Cancer Center, Geisel School of Medicine at Dartmouth, Hanover, New Hampshire.
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Opydo-Chanek M, Mazur L. Comparison of in vitro antileukemic activity of obatoclax and ABT-737. Tumour Biol 2016; 37:10839-49. [PMID: 26880588 PMCID: PMC4999481 DOI: 10.1007/s13277-016-4943-z] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/12/2015] [Accepted: 01/29/2016] [Indexed: 01/10/2023] Open
Abstract
Obatoclax and ABT-737 belong to a new class of anticancer agents known as BH3-mimetics. These agents antagonize the anti-apoptotic members of Bcl-2 family. The Bcl-2 proteins modulate sensitivity of many types of cancer cells to chemotherapy. Therefore, the objective of the present study was to examine and compare the antileukemic activity of obatoclax and ABT-737 applied alone, and in combination with anticancer agent, mafosfamide and daunorubicin. The in vitro cytotoxic effects of the tested agents on human leukemia cells were determined using the spectrophotometric MTT test, Coulter electrical impedance method, flow cytometry annexin V-fluorescein/propidium iodide assay, and light microscopy technique. The combination index analysis was used to quantify the extent of agent interactions. BH3 mimetics significantly decreased the leukemia cell viability and synergistically enhanced the cytotoxic effects induced by mafosfamide and daunorubicin. Obatoclax affected the cell viability to a greater degree than did ABT-737. In addition, various patterns of temporary changes in the cell volume and count, and in the frequency of leukemia cells undergoing apoptosis, were found 24 and 48 h after the tested agent application. ABT-737 combined with anticancer agents induced apoptosis more effectively than obatoclax when given in the same combination regimen. The results of the present study point to the different antileukemic activities of obatoclax and ABT-737, when applied alone, and in combination with anticancer agents. A better understanding of the exact mechanisms of BH3 mimetic action is of key importance for their optional use in cancer therapy.
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Affiliation(s)
- Małgorzata Opydo-Chanek
- Department of Experimental Hematology, Jagiellonian University, Gronostajowa 9, 30-387, Krakow, Poland.
| | - Lidia Mazur
- Department of Experimental Hematology, Jagiellonian University, Gronostajowa 9, 30-387, Krakow, Poland
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49
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Hierarchy for targeting prosurvival BCL2 family proteins in multiple myeloma: pivotal role of MCL1. Blood 2016; 128:1834-1844. [PMID: 27465916 DOI: 10.1182/blood-2016-03-704908] [Citation(s) in RCA: 113] [Impact Index Per Article: 14.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/09/2016] [Accepted: 07/13/2016] [Indexed: 11/20/2022] Open
Abstract
New therapeutic targets are needed to address the poor prognosis of patients with high-risk multiple myeloma. Myeloma cells usually express a range of the prosurvival BCL2 proteins. To define the hierarchy of their relative importance for maintaining the survival of myeloma cells, we targeted each of them in a large panel of cell lines, using pharmacological inhibitors or gene editing or by peptide-based approaches, alone or in combination. The majority of well-established immortalized cell lines (17/25) or low-passage myeloma cell lines (5/7) are readily killed when MCL1 is targeted, even including those cell lines sensitive to BCL2 inhibition. Targeting MCL1 also constrained the growth of myeloma in vivo. We also identified a previously unrecognized subset of myeloma that is highly BCLXL-dependent, and has the potential for cotargeting MCL1 and BCLXL. As MCL1 is pivotal for maintaining survival of most myelomas, it should be prioritized for targeting in the clinic once high-quality, validated inhibitors become available.
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50
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Abstract
Apoptosis is a form of programmed cell death that is critical for basic human development and physiology. One of the more important surprises in cell biology in the last two decades is the extent to which mitochondria represent a physical point of convergence for many apoptosis-inducing signals in mammalian cells. Mitochondria not only adjudicate the decision of whether or not to commit to cell death, but also release toxic proteins culminating in widespread proteolysis, nucleolysis, and cell engulfment. Interactions among BCL-2 family proteins at the mitochondrial outer membrane control the release of these toxic proteins and, by extension, control cellular commitment to apoptosis. This pathway is particularly relevant to cancer treatment, as most cancer chemotherapies trigger mitochondrial-mediated apoptosis. In this Review, we discuss recent advances in the BCL-2 family interactions, their control by upstream factors, and how the mitochondria itself alters these interactions. We also highlight recent clinical insights into mitochondrial-mediated apoptosis and novel cancer therapies that exploit this pathway.
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Affiliation(s)
- Patrick D Bhola
- Department of Biological Chemistry and Molecular Pharmacology, Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA 02115, USA; Department of Medical Oncology, Dana-Farber Cancer Institute, Boston, MA 02215, USA
| | - Anthony Letai
- Department of Biological Chemistry and Molecular Pharmacology, Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA 02115, USA; Department of Medical Oncology, Dana-Farber Cancer Institute, Boston, MA 02215, USA.
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