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Hassanzadeh A, Shomali N, Kamrani A, Soltani-Zangbar MS, Nasiri H, Akbari M. Cancer therapy by cyclin-dependent kinase inhibitors (CDKIs): bench to bedside. EXCLI JOURNAL 2024; 23:862-882. [PMID: 38983782 PMCID: PMC11231458 DOI: 10.17179/excli2024-7076] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/11/2024] [Accepted: 03/06/2024] [Indexed: 07/11/2024]
Abstract
A major characteristic of cancer is dysregulated cell division, which results in aberrant growth of cells. Consequently, medicinal targets that prevent cell division would be useful in the fight against cancer. The primary regulator of proliferation is a complex consisting of cyclin and cyclin-dependent kinases (CDKs). The FDA has granted approval for CDK inhibitors (CDKIs) to treat metastatic hormone receptor-positive breast cancer. Specifically, CDK4/6 CDKIs block the enzyme activity of CDK4 and CDK6. Unfortunately, the majority of first-generation CDK inhibitors, also known as pan-CDK inhibitors because they target multiple CDKs, have not been authorized for clinical use owing to their serious side effects and lack of selection. In contrast to this, significant advancements have been created to permit the use of pan-CDK inhibitors in therapeutic settings. Notably, the toxicity and negative consequences of pan-CDK inhibitors have been lessened in recent years thanks to the emergence of combination therapy tactics. Therefore, pan-CDK inhibitors have renewed promise for clinical use when used in a combination regimen. The members of the CDK family have been reviewed and their primary roles in cell cycle regulation were covered in this review. Next, we provided an overview of the state of studies on CDK inhibitors.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ali Hassanzadeh
- Department of Applied Cell Sciences, School of Advanced Technologies in Medicine, Tehran University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran
| | - Navid Shomali
- Department of Immunology, Faculty of Medicine, Tabriz University of Medical Sciences, Tabriz, Iran
- Immunology Research Center, Tabriz University of Medical Sciences, Tabriz, Iran
| | - Amin Kamrani
- Department of Immunology, Faculty of Medicine, Tabriz University of Medical Sciences, Tabriz, Iran
- Immunology Research Center, Tabriz University of Medical Sciences, Tabriz, Iran
| | - Mohammad Sadegh Soltani-Zangbar
- Department of Immunology, Faculty of Medicine, Tabriz University of Medical Sciences, Tabriz, Iran
- Immunology Research Center, Tabriz University of Medical Sciences, Tabriz, Iran
| | - Hadi Nasiri
- Immunology Research Center, Tabriz University of Medical Sciences, Tabriz, Iran
| | - Morteza Akbari
- Immunology Research Center, Tabriz University of Medical Sciences, Tabriz, Iran
- Department of Medical Biotechnology, Faculty of Advanced Medical Sciences, Tabriz University of Medical Sciences, Tabriz, Iran
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2
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Niu P, Tao Y, Meng Q, Huang Y, Li S, Ding K, Ma D, Ye Z, Fan M. Discovery of novel macrocyclic derivatives as potent and selective cyclin-dependent kinase 2 inhibitors. Bioorg Med Chem 2024; 104:117711. [PMID: 38583237 DOI: 10.1016/j.bmc.2024.117711] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/21/2024] [Revised: 03/23/2024] [Accepted: 03/31/2024] [Indexed: 04/09/2024]
Abstract
Cyclin-dependent kinase 2 (CDK2) is a member of CDK family of kinases (CDKs) that regulate the cell cycle. Its inopportune or over-activation leads to uncontrolled cell cycle progression and drives numerous types of cancers, especially ovarian, uterine, gastric cancer, as well as those associated with amplified CCNE1 gene. However, developing selective lead compound as CDK2 inhibitors remains challenging owing to similarities in the ATP pockets among different CDKs. Herein, we described the optimization of compound 1, a novel macrocyclic inhibitor targeting CDK2/5/7/9, aiming to discover more selective and metabolically stable lead compound as CDK2 inhibitor. Molecular dynamic (MD) simulations were performed for compound 1 and 9 to gain insights into the improved selectivity against CDK5. Further optimization efforts led to compound 22, exhibiting excellent CDK2 inhibitory activity, good selectivity over other CDKs and potent cellular effects. Based on these characterizations, we propose that compound 22 holds great promise as a potential lead candidate for drug development.
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Affiliation(s)
- Pengpeng Niu
- Academy of Medical Engineering and Translational Medicine (AMT), Tianjin University, Tianjin 300072, China; Hangzhou Institute of Medicine, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Hangzhou, Zhejiang 310018, China
| | - Yanxin Tao
- School of Life Sciences, Tianjin University, Tianjin 300072, China; Hangzhou Institute of Medicine, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Hangzhou, Zhejiang 310018, China
| | - Qingyuan Meng
- Hangzhou Institute of Medicine, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Hangzhou, Zhejiang 310018, China; School of Molecular Medicine, Hangzhou Institute for Advanced Study, University of Chinese Academy of Sciences, Hangzhou, Zhejiang 310024, China; Institute of Chemistry, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing 100190, China
| | - Yixing Huang
- Department of Otorhinolaryngology, Affiliated Hangzhou First People's Hospital, Zhejiang University School of Medicine, Hangzhou, Zhejiang 310022, China
| | - Shan Li
- Hangzhou Institute of Medicine, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Hangzhou, Zhejiang 310018, China; Zhejiang Cancer Hospital, Hangzhou, Zhejiang 310022, China
| | - Ke Ding
- Shanghai Institute of Organic Chemistry, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Shanghai 20032, China
| | - Dawei Ma
- Shanghai Institute of Organic Chemistry, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Shanghai 20032, China
| | - Zu Ye
- Hangzhou Institute of Medicine, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Hangzhou, Zhejiang 310018, China; Zhejiang Cancer Hospital, Hangzhou, Zhejiang 310022, China.
| | - Mengyang Fan
- Hangzhou Institute of Medicine, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Hangzhou, Zhejiang 310018, China; Zhejiang Cancer Hospital, Hangzhou, Zhejiang 310022, China.
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3
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Zhang Y, Shan L, Tang W, Ge Y, Li C, Zhang J. Recent Discovery and Development of Inhibitors that Target CDK9 and Their Therapeutic Indications. J Med Chem 2024; 67:5185-5215. [PMID: 38564299 DOI: 10.1021/acs.jmedchem.4c00312] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 04/04/2024]
Abstract
CDK9 is a cyclin-dependent kinase that plays pivotal roles in multiple cellular functions including gene transcription, cell cycle regulation, DNA damage repair, and cellular differentiation. Targeting CDK9 is considered an attractive strategy for antitumor therapy, especially for leukemia and lymphoma. Several potent small molecule inhibitors, exemplified by TG02 (4), have progressed to clinical trials. However, many of them face challenges such as low clinical efficacy and multiple adverse reactions and may necessitate the exploration of novel strategies to lead to success in the clinic. In this perspective, we present a comprehensive overview of the structural characteristics, biological functions, and preclinical status of CDK9 inhibitors. Our focus extends to various types of inhibitors, including pan-inhibitors, selective inhibitors, dual-target inhibitors, degraders, PPI inhibitors, and natural products. The discussion encompasses chemical structures, structure-activity relationships (SARs), biological activities, selectivity, and therapeutic potential, providing detailed insight into the diverse landscape of CDK9 inhibitors.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yuming Zhang
- Department of Neurology, Neuro-system and Multimorbidity Laboratory and State Key Laboratory of Biotherapy and Cancer Center and National Clinical Research Center for Geriatrics, West China Hospital, Sichuan University, Chengdu, 610041 Sichuan, China
- West China College of Medicine, West China Hospital, Sichuan University, Chengdu, 610041 Sichuan, China
| | - Lianhai Shan
- School of Life Science and Engineering, Southwest Jiaotong University, Chengdu, 610031 Sichuan, China
| | - Wentao Tang
- Department of Neurology, Neuro-system and Multimorbidity Laboratory and State Key Laboratory of Biotherapy and Cancer Center and National Clinical Research Center for Geriatrics, West China Hospital, Sichuan University, Chengdu, 610041 Sichuan, China
| | - Yating Ge
- Department of Neurology, Neuro-system and Multimorbidity Laboratory and State Key Laboratory of Biotherapy and Cancer Center and National Clinical Research Center for Geriatrics, West China Hospital, Sichuan University, Chengdu, 610041 Sichuan, China
| | - ChengXian Li
- Department of Neurology, Neuro-system and Multimorbidity Laboratory and State Key Laboratory of Biotherapy and Cancer Center and National Clinical Research Center for Geriatrics, West China Hospital, Sichuan University, Chengdu, 610041 Sichuan, China
| | - Jifa Zhang
- Department of Neurology, Neuro-system and Multimorbidity Laboratory and State Key Laboratory of Biotherapy and Cancer Center and National Clinical Research Center for Geriatrics, West China Hospital, Sichuan University, Chengdu, 610041 Sichuan, China
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4
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Chan KI, Zhang S, Li G, Xu Y, Cui L, Wang Y, Su H, Tan W, Zhong Z. MYC Oncogene: A Druggable Target for Treating Cancers with Natural Products. Aging Dis 2024; 15:640-697. [PMID: 37450923 PMCID: PMC10917530 DOI: 10.14336/ad.2023.0520] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/24/2023] [Accepted: 05/20/2023] [Indexed: 07/18/2023] Open
Abstract
Various diseases, including cancers, age-associated disorders, and acute liver failure, have been linked to the oncogene, MYC. Animal testing and clinical trials have shown that sustained tumor volume reduction can be achieved when MYC is inactivated, and different combinations of therapeutic agents including MYC inhibitors are currently being developed. In this review, we first provide a summary of the multiple biological functions of the MYC oncoprotein in cancer treatment, highlighting that the equilibrium points of the MYC/MAX, MIZ1/MYC/MAX, and MAD (MNT)/MAX complexes have further potential in cancer treatment that could be used to restrain MYC oncogene expression and its functions in tumorigenesis. We also discuss the multifunctional capacity of MYC in various cellular cancer processes, including its influences on immune response, metabolism, cell cycle, apoptosis, autophagy, pyroptosis, metastasis, angiogenesis, multidrug resistance, and intestinal flora. Moreover, we summarize the MYC therapy patent landscape and emphasize the potential of MYC as a druggable target, using herbal medicine modulators. Finally, we describe pending challenges and future perspectives in biomedical research, involving the development of therapeutic approaches to modulate MYC or its targeted genes. Patients with cancers driven by MYC signaling may benefit from therapies targeting these pathways, which could delay cancerous growth and recover antitumor immune responses.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ka Iong Chan
- Macao Centre for Research and Development in Chinese Medicine, State Key Laboratory of Quality Research in Chinese Medicine, Institute of Chinese Medical Sciences, University of Macau, Macao SAR 999078, China
| | - Siyuan Zhang
- Macao Centre for Research and Development in Chinese Medicine, State Key Laboratory of Quality Research in Chinese Medicine, Institute of Chinese Medical Sciences, University of Macau, Macao SAR 999078, China
| | - Guodong Li
- Macao Centre for Research and Development in Chinese Medicine, State Key Laboratory of Quality Research in Chinese Medicine, Institute of Chinese Medical Sciences, University of Macau, Macao SAR 999078, China
| | - Yida Xu
- Macao Centre for Research and Development in Chinese Medicine, State Key Laboratory of Quality Research in Chinese Medicine, Institute of Chinese Medical Sciences, University of Macau, Macao SAR 999078, China
| | - Liao Cui
- Guangdong Provincial Key Laboratory of Research and Development of Natural Drugs, School of Pharmacy, Guangdong Medical University, Zhanjiang 524000, China
| | - Yitao Wang
- Macao Centre for Research and Development in Chinese Medicine, State Key Laboratory of Quality Research in Chinese Medicine, Institute of Chinese Medical Sciences, University of Macau, Macao SAR 999078, China
| | - Huanxing Su
- Macao Centre for Research and Development in Chinese Medicine, State Key Laboratory of Quality Research in Chinese Medicine, Institute of Chinese Medical Sciences, University of Macau, Macao SAR 999078, China
| | - Wen Tan
- School of Pharmacy, Lanzhou University, Lanzhou 730000, China
| | - Zhangfeng Zhong
- Macao Centre for Research and Development in Chinese Medicine, State Key Laboratory of Quality Research in Chinese Medicine, Institute of Chinese Medical Sciences, University of Macau, Macao SAR 999078, China
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Athwal H, Kochiyanil A, Bhat V, Allan AL, Parsyan A. Centrosomes and associated proteins in pathogenesis and treatment of breast cancer. Front Oncol 2024; 14:1370565. [PMID: 38606093 PMCID: PMC11007099 DOI: 10.3389/fonc.2024.1370565] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/14/2024] [Accepted: 03/04/2024] [Indexed: 04/13/2024] Open
Abstract
Breast cancer is the most prevalent malignancy among women worldwide. Despite significant advances in treatment, it remains one of the leading causes of female mortality. The inability to effectively treat advanced and/or treatment-resistant breast cancer demonstrates the need to develop novel treatment strategies and targeted therapies. Centrosomes and their associated proteins have been shown to play key roles in the pathogenesis of breast cancer and thus represent promising targets for drug and biomarker development. Centrosomes are fundamental cellular structures in the mammalian cell that are responsible for error-free execution of cell division. Centrosome amplification and aberrant expression of its associated proteins such as Polo-like kinases (PLKs), Aurora kinases (AURKs) and Cyclin-dependent kinases (CDKs) have been observed in various cancers, including breast cancer. These aberrations in breast cancer are thought to cause improper chromosomal segregation during mitosis, leading to chromosomal instability and uncontrolled cell division, allowing cancer cells to acquire new genetic changes that result in evasion of cell death and the promotion of tumor formation. Various chemical compounds developed against PLKs and AURKs have shown meaningful antitumorigenic effects in breast cancer cells in vitro and in vivo. The mechanism of action of these inhibitors is likely related to exacerbation of numerical genomic instability, such as aneuploidy or polyploidy. Furthermore, growing evidence demonstrates enhanced antitumorigenic effects when inhibitors specific to centrosome-associated proteins are used in combination with either radiation or chemotherapy drugs in breast cancer. This review focuses on the current knowledge regarding the roles of centrosome and centrosome-associated proteins in breast cancer pathogenesis and their utility as novel targets for breast cancer treatment.
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Affiliation(s)
- Harjot Athwal
- Department of Anatomy and Cell Biology, Schulich School of Medicine and Dentistry, Western University, London, ON, Canada
| | - Arpitha Kochiyanil
- Faculty of Science, Schulich School of Medicine and Dentistry, Western University, London, ON, Canada
| | - Vasudeva Bhat
- Department of Anatomy and Cell Biology, Schulich School of Medicine and Dentistry, Western University, London, ON, Canada
- London Regional Cancer Program, London Health Sciences Centre, Lawson Health Research Institute, London, ON, Canada
| | - Alison L. Allan
- Department of Anatomy and Cell Biology, Schulich School of Medicine and Dentistry, Western University, London, ON, Canada
- London Regional Cancer Program, London Health Sciences Centre, Lawson Health Research Institute, London, ON, Canada
- Department of Oncology, Schulich School of Medicine and Dentistry, Western University, London, ON, Canada
| | - Armen Parsyan
- Department of Anatomy and Cell Biology, Schulich School of Medicine and Dentistry, Western University, London, ON, Canada
- London Regional Cancer Program, London Health Sciences Centre, Lawson Health Research Institute, London, ON, Canada
- Department of Oncology, Schulich School of Medicine and Dentistry, Western University, London, ON, Canada
- Division of General Surgery, Department of Surgery, Schulich School of Medicine and Dentistry, Western University, London, ON, Canada
- Department of Surgery, St. Joseph’s Health Care London and London Health Sciences Centre, London, ON, Canada
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Acharya B, Saha D, Armstrong D, Jabali B, Hanafi M, Herrera-Rueda A, Lakkaniga NR, Frett B. Kinase inhibitor macrocycles: a perspective on limiting conformational flexibility when targeting the kinome with small molecules. RSC Med Chem 2024; 15:399-415. [PMID: 38389874 PMCID: PMC10880908 DOI: 10.1039/d3md00457k] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/31/2023] [Accepted: 12/10/2023] [Indexed: 02/24/2024] Open
Abstract
Methods utilized for drug discovery and development within the kinome have rapidly evolved since the approval of imatinib, the first small molecule kinase inhibitor. Macrocycles have received increasing interest as a technique to improve kinase inhibitor drug properties evident by the FDA approvals of lorlatinib, pacritinib, and repotrectinib. Compared to their acyclic counterparts, macrocycles can possess improved pharmacodynamic and pharmacokinetic properties. This review highlights clinical success stories when implementing macrocycles in kinase-based drug discovery and showcases that macrocyclization is a clinically validated drug discovery strategy when targeting the kinome.
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Affiliation(s)
- Baku Acharya
- Department of Pharmaceutical Sciences, College of Pharmacy, University of Arkansas for Medical Sciences Little Rock AR USA
| | - Debasmita Saha
- Department of Pharmaceutical Sciences, College of Pharmacy, University of Arkansas for Medical Sciences Little Rock AR USA
- Conrad Prebys Centre for Chemical Genomics, Sanford Burnham Prebys Medical Discovery Institute San Diego CA USA
| | - Daniel Armstrong
- Department of Pharmaceutical Sciences, College of Pharmacy, University of Arkansas for Medical Sciences Little Rock AR USA
| | - Baha'a Jabali
- Department of Pharmaceutical Sciences, College of Pharmacy, University of Arkansas for Medical Sciences Little Rock AR USA
| | - Maha Hanafi
- Department of Pharmaceutical Sciences, College of Pharmacy, University of Arkansas for Medical Sciences Little Rock AR USA
- Department of Pharmaceutical Chemistry, Faculty of Pharmacy, Cairo University Cairo 11526 Egypt
| | - Alan Herrera-Rueda
- Department of Pharmaceutical Sciences, College of Pharmacy, University of Arkansas for Medical Sciences Little Rock AR USA
| | - Naga Rajiv Lakkaniga
- Department of Chemistry and Chemical Biology, Indian Institute of Technology (Indian School of Mines) Dhanbad India
| | - Brendan Frett
- Department of Pharmaceutical Sciences, College of Pharmacy, University of Arkansas for Medical Sciences Little Rock AR USA
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Le Rhun E, Gorlia T, Felsberg J, Jongen J, Maurage CA, Ducray F, Gramatzki D, Hau P, Chinot OL, Preusser M, Cartalat S, Roth P, van den Bent M, Furtner J, Collienne M, Reifenberger G, Weller M. Zotiraciclib (TG02) for newly diagnosed glioblastoma in the elderly or for recurrent glioblastoma: The EORTC 1608 STEAM trial. Eur J Cancer 2024; 198:113475. [PMID: 38159337 DOI: 10.1016/j.ejca.2023.113475] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/03/2023] [Revised: 12/03/2023] [Accepted: 12/04/2023] [Indexed: 01/03/2024]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Zotiraciclib (TG02) is an oral multi-cyclin dependent kinase (CDK) inhibitor thought to inhibit tumor growth via CDK-9-dependent depletion of survival proteins such as c-MYC and MCL-1 which are frequently overexpressed in glioblastoma. METHODS EORTC 1608 (NCT03224104) (STEAM) had a three parallel group (A,B,C) phase Ib, open-label, non-randomized, multicenter design in IDH wild-type newly diagnosed glioblastoma or anaplastic astrocytoma. Groups A and B explored the maximum tolerated dose (MTD) of TG02 in elderly patients, in combination with hypofractionated radiotherapy alone (group A) or temozolomide alone (group B), according to O6-methylguanine DNA methyltransferase promoter methylation status determined centrally. Group C explored single agent activity of TG02 at first relapse after temozolomide chemoradiotherapy with a primary endpoint of progression-free survival at 6 months (PFS-6). Tumor expression of CDK-9, c-MYC and MCL-1 was determined by immunohistochemistry. RESULTS The MTD was 150 mg twice weekly in combination with radiotherapy alone (group A) or temozolomide alone (group B). Two dose-limiting toxicities were observed at 150 mg: one in group A (grade 3 seizure), one in group B (multiple grade 1 events). Main toxicities included neutropenia, gastrointestinal disorders and hepatotoxicity. PFS-6 in group C was 6.7%. CDK-9, c-MYC and MCL-1 were confirmed to be expressed and their expression was moderately cross-correlated. High protein levels of MCL-1 were associated with inferior survival. CONCLUSIONS TG02 exhibits overlapping toxicity with alkylating agents and low single agent clinical activity in recurrent glioblastoma. The role of CDK-9 and its down-stream effectors as prognostic factors and therapeutic targets in glioblastoma warrants further study.
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Affiliation(s)
- Emilie Le Rhun
- Department of Neurosurgery, Clinical Neuroscience Center, University Hospital and University of Zurich, Zurich, Switzerland; Department of Neurology, Clinical Neuroscience Center, University Hospital and University of Zurich, Zurich, Switzerland; Neuro-Oncology, General and Stereotaxic Neurosurgery Service, University Hospital of Lille, Lille, France; University of Lille, Inserm, U-1192, Lille, France.
| | - Thierry Gorlia
- European Organization for Research and Treatment of Cancer, Brussels, Belgium
| | - Jörg Felsberg
- Institute of Neuropathology, Medical Faculty, Heinrich Heine University and University Hospital Düsseldorf, and German Cancer Consortium (DKTK), Partner Site Essen/Düsseldorf, Düsseldorf, Germany
| | - Joost Jongen
- The Brain Tumour Center at the Erasmus MC Cancer Institute, Rotterdam, the Netherlands
| | | | | | - Dorothee Gramatzki
- Department of Neurology, Clinical Neuroscience Center, University Hospital and University of Zurich, Zurich, Switzerland
| | - Peter Hau
- Department of Neurology - NeuroOncology and Wilhelm Sander Neuro-Oncology Unit, University Hospital Regensburg, Regensburg, Germany
| | | | - Matthias Preusser
- Division of Oncology, Department of Medicine 1, Medical University, Vienna, Austria
| | | | - Patrick Roth
- Department of Neurology, Clinical Neuroscience Center, University Hospital and University of Zurich, Zurich, Switzerland
| | - Martin van den Bent
- The Brain Tumour Center at the Erasmus MC Cancer Institute, Rotterdam, the Netherlands
| | - Julia Furtner
- Department of Biomedical imaging and Image-guided Therapy, Medical University of Vienna, Austria; Research Center for Medical Image Analysis and Artificial Intelligence (MIAAI), Faculty of Medicine and Dentistry, Danube Private University, 3500 Krems, Austria
| | - Maike Collienne
- European Organization for Research and Treatment of Cancer, Brussels, Belgium
| | - Guido Reifenberger
- Institute of Neuropathology, Medical Faculty, Heinrich Heine University and University Hospital Düsseldorf, and German Cancer Consortium (DKTK), Partner Site Essen/Düsseldorf, Düsseldorf, Germany
| | - Michael Weller
- Department of Neurology, Clinical Neuroscience Center, University Hospital and University of Zurich, Zurich, Switzerland
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Pang Y, Li Q, Sergi Z, Yu G, Sang X, Kim O, Wang H, Ranjan A, Merchant M, Oudit B, Robey RW, Soheilian F, Tran B, Núñez FJ, Zhang M, Song H, Zhang W, Davis D, Gilbert MR, Gottesman MM, Liu Z, Khan J, Thomas CJ, Castro MG, Gujral TS, Wu J. Exploiting the therapeutic vulnerability of IDH-mutant gliomas with zotiraciclib. BIORXIV : THE PREPRINT SERVER FOR BIOLOGY 2024:2023.06.29.547143. [PMID: 37786680 PMCID: PMC10541587 DOI: 10.1101/2023.06.29.547143] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/04/2023]
Abstract
Isocitrate dehydrogenase (IDH)-mutant gliomas have distinctive metabolic and biological traits that may render them susceptible to targeted treatments. Here, by conducting a high-throughput drug screen, we pinpointed a specific susceptibility of IDH-mutant gliomas to zotiraciclib (ZTR). ZTR exhibited selective growth inhibition across multiple IDH-mutant glioma in vitro and in vivo models. Mechanistically, ZTR at low doses suppressed CDK9 and RNA Pol II phosphorylation in IDH-mutant cells, disrupting mitochondrial function and NAD+ production, causing oxidative stress. Integrated biochemical profiling of ZTR kinase targets and transcriptomics unveiled that ZTR-induced bioenergetic failure was linked to the suppression of PIM kinase activity. We posit that the combination of mitochondrial dysfunction and an inability to adapt to oxidative stress resulted in significant cell death upon ZTR treatment, ultimately increasing the therapeutic vulnerability of IDH-mutant gliomas. These findings prompted a clinical trial evaluating ZTR in IDH-mutant gliomas towards precision medicine ( NCT05588141 ). Highlights Zotiraciclib (ZTR), a CDK9 inhibitor, hinders IDH-mutant glioma growth in vitro and in vivo . ZTR halts cell cycle, disrupts respiration, and induces oxidative stress in IDH-mutant cells.ZTR unexpectedly inhibits PIM kinases, impacting mitochondria and causing bioenergetic failure.These findings led to the clinical trial NCT05588141, evaluating ZTR for IDH-mutant gliomas.
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Ma C, Cui S, Xu R. Developments of Fms-like Tyrosine Kinase 3 Inhibitors as Anticancer Agents for AML Treatment. Curr Med Chem 2024; 31:4657-4686. [PMID: 38204232 DOI: 10.2174/0109298673277543231205072556] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/17/2023] [Revised: 10/01/2023] [Accepted: 10/25/2023] [Indexed: 01/12/2024]
Abstract
BACKGROUND FMS-like tyrosine kinase 3 (FLT3) is a commonly mutated gene in acute myeloid leukemia. As a receptor tyrosine kinase (RTK), FLT3 plays a role in the proliferation and differentiation of hematopoietic stem cells. As the most frequent molecular alteration in AML, FLT3 has drawn the attention of many researchers, and a lot of small molecule inhibitors targeting FLT3 have been intensively investigated as potential drugs for AML therapy. METHODS In this paper, PubMed and SciFinder® were used as a tool; the publications about "FLT3 inhibitor" and "Acute myeloid leukemia" were surveyed from 2014 to the present with an exclusion of those published as patents. RESULTS In this study, the structural characterization and biological activities of representative FLT3 inhibitors were summarized. The major challenges and future directions for further research are discussed. CONCLUSION Recently, numerous FLT3 inhibitors have been discovered and employed in FLT3-mutated AML treatment. In order to overcome the drug resistance caused by FLT3 mutations, screening multitargets FLT3 inhibitors has become the main research direction. In addition, the emergence of irreversible FLT3 inhibitors also provides new ideas for discovering new FLT3 inhibitors.
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Affiliation(s)
- Chenchen Ma
- College of Integrated Traditional Chinese and Western Medicine, Shandong University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Jinan 250014, China
- Central Laboratory of Affiliated Hospital of Shandong University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Jinan 250014, China
- Shandong Key Laboratory of Dominant Diseases of traditional Chinese Medicine, Jinan 250014, China
| | - Siyuan Cui
- Department of Hematology, Affiliated Hospital of Shandong University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Jinan, 250014, China
| | - Ruirong Xu
- Department of Hematology, Affiliated Hospital of Shandong University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Jinan, 250014, China
- Institute of Hematology, Shandong University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Jinan, 250014, China
- Shandong Provincial Health Commission Key Laboratory of Hematology of Integrated Traditional Chinese and Western Medicine, Affiliated Hospital of Shandong University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Jinan, China
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10
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Xie X, Yu T, Li X, Zhang N, Foster LJ, Peng C, Huang W, He G. Recent advances in targeting the "undruggable" proteins: from drug discovery to clinical trials. Signal Transduct Target Ther 2023; 8:335. [PMID: 37669923 PMCID: PMC10480221 DOI: 10.1038/s41392-023-01589-z] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 9.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/03/2023] [Revised: 07/22/2023] [Accepted: 08/02/2023] [Indexed: 09/07/2023] Open
Abstract
Undruggable proteins are a class of proteins that are often characterized by large, complex structures or functions that are difficult to interfere with using conventional drug design strategies. Targeting such undruggable targets has been considered also a great opportunity for treatment of human diseases and has attracted substantial efforts in the field of medicine. Therefore, in this review, we focus on the recent development of drug discovery targeting "undruggable" proteins and their application in clinic. To make this review well organized, we discuss the design strategies targeting the undruggable proteins, including covalent regulation, allosteric inhibition, protein-protein/DNA interaction inhibition, targeted proteins regulation, nucleic acid-based approach, immunotherapy and others.
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Affiliation(s)
- Xin Xie
- State Key Laboratory of Southwestern Chinese Medicine Resources, College of Medical Technology and School of Pharmacy, Chengdu University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, 611137, Chengdu, China
- Michael Smith Laboratories, University of British Columbia, Vancouver, BC, V6T 1Z4, Canada
| | - Tingting Yu
- State Key Laboratory of Southwestern Chinese Medicine Resources, College of Medical Technology and School of Pharmacy, Chengdu University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, 611137, Chengdu, China
| | - Xiang Li
- State Key Laboratory of Southwestern Chinese Medicine Resources, College of Medical Technology and School of Pharmacy, Chengdu University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, 611137, Chengdu, China
| | - Nan Zhang
- State Key Laboratory of Southwestern Chinese Medicine Resources, College of Medical Technology and School of Pharmacy, Chengdu University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, 611137, Chengdu, China
- Department of Dermatology and State Key Laboratory of Biotherapy, West China Hospital, Sichuan University, 610041, Chengdu, China
| | - Leonard J Foster
- Michael Smith Laboratories, University of British Columbia, Vancouver, BC, V6T 1Z4, Canada
| | - Cheng Peng
- State Key Laboratory of Southwestern Chinese Medicine Resources, College of Medical Technology and School of Pharmacy, Chengdu University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, 611137, Chengdu, China.
| | - Wei Huang
- State Key Laboratory of Southwestern Chinese Medicine Resources, College of Medical Technology and School of Pharmacy, Chengdu University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, 611137, Chengdu, China.
| | - Gu He
- Department of Dermatology and State Key Laboratory of Biotherapy, West China Hospital, Sichuan University, 610041, Chengdu, China.
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Tian Y, Qin S, Zhang F, Luo J, He X, Sun Y, Yang T. Discovery of N-(4-(Aminomethyl)phenyl)-5-methylpyrimidin-2-amine Derivatives as Potent and Selective JAK2 Inhibitors. ACS Med Chem Lett 2023; 14:1113-1121. [PMID: 37583815 PMCID: PMC10424325 DOI: 10.1021/acsmedchemlett.3c00251] [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: 06/05/2023] [Accepted: 07/28/2023] [Indexed: 08/17/2023] Open
Abstract
The JAK2V617F mutation leads to JAK2 autophosphorylation and activation of downstream pathways, eventually resulting in myeloproliferative neoplasms (MPNs). Selective inhibitors showed advantages in terms of side effects; therefore, there is an urgent need to develop novel selective JAK2 inhibitors for treating MPNs. In this study, we described a series of N-(4-(aminomethyl)phenyl)pyrimidin-2-amine derivatives as selective JAK2 inhibitors. Systematic exploration through opening the tetrahydroisoquinoline based on the previous lead compound 13ac led to the discovery of the optimal compound A8. Compound A8 showed excellent potency on JAK2 kinase, with an IC50 value of 5 nM, and inhibited the phosphorylation of JAK2 and its downstream signaling pathway. Moreover, A8 exhibited 38.6-, 54.6-, and 41.2-fold selectivity for JAK1, JAK3, and TYK2, respectively. Compared to the lead compound, A8 demonstrated much better metabolic stabilities, with a bioavailability of 41.1%. These findings suggest that A8 is a relatively selective JAK2 inhibitor, deserving to be developed for treating MPNs.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yang Tian
- Department
of Otolaryngology Head and Neck Surgery, The Third People’s Hospital of Chengdu, The Affiliated Hospital
of Southwest Jiaotong University, The Second Chengdu Hospital Affiliated
to Chongqing Medical University, Chengdu 610014, China
- Medical
Research Center. The Third People’s Hospital of Chengdu, The
Affiliated Hospital of Southwest Jiaotong University, The Second Chengdu
Hospital Affiliated to Chongqing Medical University, Chengdu, 610014, China
| | - Songhui Qin
- State
Key Laboratory of Biotherapy and Cancer Center, West China Hospital, Sichuan University and Collaborative Innovation
Center of Biotherapy, Chengdu 610041, China
| | - Fang Zhang
- Department
of Otolaryngology Head and Neck Surgery, The Third People’s Hospital of Chengdu, The Affiliated Hospital
of Southwest Jiaotong University, The Second Chengdu Hospital Affiliated
to Chongqing Medical University, Chengdu 610014, China
| | - Jing Luo
- Department
of Otolaryngology Head and Neck Surgery, The Third People’s Hospital of Chengdu, The Affiliated Hospital
of Southwest Jiaotong University, The Second Chengdu Hospital Affiliated
to Chongqing Medical University, Chengdu 610014, China
| | - Xi He
- Department
of Otolaryngology Head and Neck Surgery, The Third People’s Hospital of Chengdu, The Affiliated Hospital
of Southwest Jiaotong University, The Second Chengdu Hospital Affiliated
to Chongqing Medical University, Chengdu 610014, China
| | - Yi Sun
- Department
of Otolaryngology Head and Neck Surgery, The Third People’s Hospital of Chengdu, The Affiliated Hospital
of Southwest Jiaotong University, The Second Chengdu Hospital Affiliated
to Chongqing Medical University, Chengdu 610014, China
| | - Tao Yang
- State
Key Laboratory of Biotherapy and Cancer Center, West China Hospital, Sichuan University and Collaborative Innovation
Center of Biotherapy, Chengdu 610041, China
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12
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Toure MA, Koehler AN. Addressing Transcriptional Dysregulation in Cancer through CDK9 Inhibition. Biochemistry 2023; 62:1114-1123. [PMID: 36854448 PMCID: PMC10035036 DOI: 10.1021/acs.biochem.2c00609] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 03/02/2023]
Abstract
Undermining transcriptional addiction, the dependence of cancers on selected transcriptional programs, is critically important for addressing cancers with high unmet clinical need. Cyclin-dependent kinase 9 (CDK9) has long been considered an actionable therapeutic target for modulating transcription in many diseases. This appeal is due to its role in coordinating the biochemical events that regulate RNA polymerase II (RNA Pol II) pause-release state, one that offers a way for attenuating transcriptional dysregulation driven by amplified or overexpressed transcription factors implicated in cancer. However, targeting CDK9 in the clinic has historically proven elusive, a challenge that stems from the often highly intolerable cytotoxicity attributed to its essentiality across many cell lineages and the polypharmacology of the first generation of pan-CDK inhibitors to reach the clinic. A new wave of highly selective molecules progressing through the early stages of clinical evaluation offers renewed hope.
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Affiliation(s)
- Mohammed A Toure
- Department of Biological Engineering, Massachusetts Institute of Technology, Cambridge, Massachusetts 02139, United States
- Koch Institute for Integrative Cancer Research, Massachusetts Institute of Technology, Cambridge, Massachusetts 02139, United States
- The Broad Institute of MIT and Harvard, Cambridge, Massachusetts 02142, United States
| | - Angela N Koehler
- Department of Biological Engineering, Massachusetts Institute of Technology, Cambridge, Massachusetts 02139, United States
- Koch Institute for Integrative Cancer Research, Massachusetts Institute of Technology, Cambridge, Massachusetts 02139, United States
- The Broad Institute of MIT and Harvard, Cambridge, Massachusetts 02142, United States
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13
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Mounika P, Gurupadayya B, Kumar HY, Namitha B. An Overview of CDK Enzyme Inhibitors in Cancer Therapy. Curr Cancer Drug Targets 2023; 23:603-619. [PMID: 36959160 DOI: 10.2174/1568009623666230320144713] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/10/2022] [Revised: 01/12/2023] [Accepted: 01/25/2023] [Indexed: 03/25/2023]
Abstract
The ability to address the cell cycle in cancer therapy brings up new medication development possibilities. Cyclin-dependent kinases are a group of proteins that control the progression of the cell cycle. The CDK/cyclin complexes are activated when specific CDK sites are phosphorylated. Because of their non-selectivity and severe toxicity, most first-generation CDK inhibitors (also known as pan-CDK inhibitors) have not been authorized for clinical usage. Despite this, significant progress has been made in allowing pan-CDK inhibitors to be employed in clinical settings. Pan-CDK inhibitors' toxicity and side effects have been lowered in recent years because of the introduction of combination therapy techniques. As a result of this, pan-CDK inhibitors have regained a lot of clinical potential as a combination therapy approach. The CDK family members have been introduced in this overview, and their important roles in cell cycle control have been discussed. Then, we have described the current state of CDK inhibitor research, with a focus on inhibitors other than CDK4/6. We have mentioned first-generation pan-CDKIs, flavopiridol and roscovitine, as well as second-generation CDKIs, dinaciclib, P276-00, AT7519, TG02, roniciclib, and RGB-286638, based on their research phases, clinical trials, and cancer targeting. CDKIs are CDK4/6, CDK7, CDK9, and CDK12 inhibitors. Finally, we have looked into the efficacy of CDK inhibitors and PD1/PDL1 antibodies when used together, which could lead to the development of a viable cancer treatment strategy.
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Affiliation(s)
- Peddaguravagari Mounika
- Department of Pharmaceutical Chemistry, JSS College of Pharmacy, JSS Academy of Higher Education & Research, Mysuru, 570015, India
| | - Bannimath Gurupadayya
- Department of Pharmaceutical Chemistry, JSS College of Pharmacy, JSS Academy of Higher Education & Research, Mysuru, 570015, India
| | - Honnavalli Yogish Kumar
- Department of Pharmaceutical Chemistry, JSS College of Pharmacy, JSS Academy of Higher Education & Research, Mysuru, 570015, India
| | - Bannimath Namitha
- Department of Pharmacology, JSS College of Pharmacy, JSS Academy of Higher Education & Research, Mysuru, 570015, India
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14
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D'costa M, Bothe A, Das S, Udhaya Kumar S, Gnanasambandan R, George Priya Doss C. CDK regulators—Cell cycle progression or apoptosis—Scenarios in normal cells and cancerous cells. ADVANCES IN PROTEIN CHEMISTRY AND STRUCTURAL BIOLOGY 2023; 135:125-177. [PMID: 37061330 DOI: 10.1016/bs.apcsb.2022.11.008] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 9.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 02/08/2023]
Abstract
Serine/threonine kinases called cyclin-dependent kinases (CDKs) interact with cyclins and CDK inhibitors (CKIs) to control the catalytic activity. CDKs are essential controllers of RNA transcription and cell cycle advancement. The ubiquitous overactivity of the cell cycle CDKs is caused by a number of genetic and epigenetic processes in human cancer, and their suppression can result in both cell cycle arrest and apoptosis. This review focused on CDKs, describing their kinase activity, their role in phosphorylation inhibition, and CDK inhibitory proteins (CIP/KIP, INK 4, RPIC). We next compared the role of different CDKs, mainly p21, p27, p57, p16, p15, p18, and p19, in the cell cycle and apoptosis in cancer cells with respect to normal cells. The current work also draws attention to the use of CDKIs as therapeutics, overcoming the pharmacokinetic barriers of pan-CDK inhibitors, analyze new chemical classes that are effective at attacking the CDKs that control the cell cycle (cdk4/6 or cdk2). It also discusses CDKI's drawbacks and its combination therapy against cancer patients. These findings collectively demonstrate the complexity of cancer cell cycles and the need for targeted therapeutic intervention. In order to slow the progression of the disease or enhance clinical outcomes, new medicines may be discovered by researching the relationship between cell death and cell proliferation.
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Affiliation(s)
- Maria D'costa
- Laboratory of Integrative Genomics, Department of Integrative Biology, School of Bio Sciences and Technology, Vellore Institute of Technology (VIT), Vellore, Tamil Nadu, India
| | - Anusha Bothe
- Laboratory of Integrative Genomics, Department of Integrative Biology, School of Bio Sciences and Technology, Vellore Institute of Technology (VIT), Vellore, Tamil Nadu, India
| | - Soumik Das
- Laboratory of Integrative Genomics, Department of Integrative Biology, School of Bio Sciences and Technology, Vellore Institute of Technology (VIT), Vellore, Tamil Nadu, India
| | - S Udhaya Kumar
- Laboratory of Integrative Genomics, Department of Integrative Biology, School of Bio Sciences and Technology, Vellore Institute of Technology (VIT), Vellore, Tamil Nadu, India
| | - R Gnanasambandan
- Laboratory of Integrative Genomics, Department of Integrative Biology, School of Bio Sciences and Technology, Vellore Institute of Technology (VIT), Vellore, Tamil Nadu, India.
| | - C George Priya Doss
- Laboratory of Integrative Genomics, Department of Integrative Biology, School of Bio Sciences and Technology, Vellore Institute of Technology (VIT), Vellore, Tamil Nadu, India.
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15
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Young JS, Kidwell RL, Zheng A, Haddad AF, Aghi MK, Raleigh DR, Schulte JD, Butowski NA. CDK 4/6 inhibitors for the treatment of meningioma. Front Oncol 2022; 12:931371. [PMID: 35936751 PMCID: PMC9354681 DOI: 10.3389/fonc.2022.931371] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/28/2022] [Accepted: 06/27/2022] [Indexed: 11/15/2022] Open
Abstract
Meningiomas are the most common non-metastatic brain tumors, and although the majority are relatively slow-growing and histologically benign, a subset of meningiomas are aggressive and remain challenging to treat. Despite a standard of care that includes surgical resection and radiotherapy, and recent advances in meningioma molecular grouping, there are no systemic medical options for patients with meningiomas that are resistant to standard interventions. Misactivation of the cell cycle at the level of CDK4/6 is common in high-grade or molecularly aggressive meningiomas, and CDK4/6 has emerged as a potential target for systemic meningioma treatments. In this review, we describe the preclinical evidence for CDK4/6 inhibitors as a treatment for high-grade meningiomas and summarize evolving clinical experience with these agents. Further, we highlight upcoming clinical trials for patients meningiomas, and discuss future directions aimed at optimizing the efficacy of these therapies and selecting patients most likely to benefit from their use.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jacob S. Young
- Department of Neurological Surgery, University of California San Francisco, San Francisco, CA, United States
- *Correspondence: Jacob S. Young, ; Nicholas A. Butowski,
| | - Reilly L. Kidwell
- Department of Neurological Surgery, University of California San Francisco, San Francisco, CA, United States
| | - Allison Zheng
- Department of Neurological Surgery, University of California San Francisco, San Francisco, CA, United States
| | - Alex F. Haddad
- Department of Neurological Surgery, University of California San Francisco, San Francisco, CA, United States
| | - Manish K. Aghi
- Department of Neurological Surgery, University of California San Francisco, San Francisco, CA, United States
| | - David R. Raleigh
- Department of Neurological Surgery, University of California San Francisco, San Francisco, CA, United States
- Department of Radiation Oncology, University of California San Francisco, San Francisco, CA, United States
| | - Jessica D. Schulte
- Division of Neuro-Oncology, University of California San Diego, San Diego, CA, United States
- Department of Neuroscience, University of California San Diego, San Diego, CA, United States
| | - Nicholas A. Butowski
- Department of Neurological Surgery, University of California San Francisco, San Francisco, CA, United States
- Division of Neuro-Oncology, University of California San Francisco, San Francisco, CA, United States
- *Correspondence: Jacob S. Young, ; Nicholas A. Butowski,
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16
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Alsfouk AA, Alshibl HM, Alsfouk BA, Altwaijry NA, Al-Abdullah ES. Synthesis and Biological Evaluation of Imadazo[1,2-a]pyrazines as Anticancer and Antiviral Agents through Inhibition of CDK9 and Human Coronavirus. Pharmaceuticals (Basel) 2022; 15:ph15070859. [PMID: 35890157 PMCID: PMC9319549 DOI: 10.3390/ph15070859] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/08/2022] [Revised: 07/10/2022] [Accepted: 07/11/2022] [Indexed: 02/04/2023] Open
Abstract
In this work, novel imadazo[1,2-a]pyrazine derivatives were synthesized and evaluated as CDK9 inhibitors. The results of CDK9 assay showed that the derivatives with pyridin-4-yl in position 2 and benzyl in position 3 of imadazo[1,2-a]pyrazine 3c displayed the most potent CDK9 inhibitory activity with IC50 of 0.16 µM. The anti-proliferative effect of the new compounds was examined against breast cancer (MCF7), colorectal cancer (HCT116), and chronic myelogenous leukaemia (K652) cell lines. The data of MTT assay showed that the cytotoxic effect of the inhibitors is correlated to their inhibitory activity against CDK9. Compound 3c exhibited the most potent cytotoxicity effect with average IC50s of three cell lines of 6.66 µM. The drug likeness properties of 3c were predicated in silico and demonstrated that 3c have reasonable physiochemical and pharmacokinetic properties. Selected derivatives were assessed in antiviral assay against human coronavirus 229E. The results of this assay showed that the derivative with pyridin-4-yl in position 2 and cyclohexyl in position 3 of imadazo[1,2-a]pyrazine 3b exhibited the most potent anti-coronaviral activity with IC50 of 56.96 µM and selectivity index of 7.14. The target predication result revealed that 3b showed high affinity to protease enzyme. Docking studies of 3b with COVID-19 main protease was conducted and showed good binding affinity, which confirmed the in vitro assay data.
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Affiliation(s)
- Aisha A. Alsfouk
- Department of Pharmaceutical Sciences, College of Pharmacy, Princess Nourah Bint Abdulrahman University, Riyadh 11671, Saudi Arabia; (B.A.A.); (N.A.A.)
- Correspondence:
| | - Hanan M. Alshibl
- Department of Pharmaceutical Chemistry, College of Pharmacy, King Saud University, Riyadh 11451, Saudi Arabia; (H.M.A.); (E.S.A.-A.)
| | - Bshra A. Alsfouk
- Department of Pharmaceutical Sciences, College of Pharmacy, Princess Nourah Bint Abdulrahman University, Riyadh 11671, Saudi Arabia; (B.A.A.); (N.A.A.)
| | - Najla A. Altwaijry
- Department of Pharmaceutical Sciences, College of Pharmacy, Princess Nourah Bint Abdulrahman University, Riyadh 11671, Saudi Arabia; (B.A.A.); (N.A.A.)
| | - Ebtehal S. Al-Abdullah
- Department of Pharmaceutical Chemistry, College of Pharmacy, King Saud University, Riyadh 11451, Saudi Arabia; (H.M.A.); (E.S.A.-A.)
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17
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Thakur A, Faujdar C, Sharma R, Sharma S, Malik B, Nepali K, Liou JP. Glioblastoma: Current Status, Emerging Targets, and Recent Advances. J Med Chem 2022; 65:8596-8685. [PMID: 35786935 PMCID: PMC9297300 DOI: 10.1021/acs.jmedchem.1c01946] [Citation(s) in RCA: 28] [Impact Index Per Article: 14.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/28/2022]
Abstract
![]()
Glioblastoma (GBM) is a highly malignant
brain tumor characterized
by a heterogeneous population of genetically unstable and highly infiltrative
cells that are resistant to chemotherapy. Although substantial efforts
have been invested in the field of anti-GBM drug discovery in the
past decade, success has primarily been confined to the preclinical
level, and clinical studies have often been hampered due to efficacy-,
selectivity-, or physicochemical property-related issues. Thus, expansion
of the list of molecular targets coupled with a pragmatic design of
new small-molecule inhibitors with central nervous system (CNS)-penetrating
ability is required to steer the wheels of anti-GBM drug discovery
endeavors. This Perspective presents various aspects of drug discovery
(challenges in GBM drug discovery and delivery, therapeutic targets,
and agents under clinical investigation). The comprehensively covered
sections include the recent medicinal chemistry campaigns embarked
upon to validate the potential of numerous enzymes/proteins/receptors
as therapeutic targets in GBM.
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Affiliation(s)
- Amandeep Thakur
- School of Pharmacy, College of Pharmacy, Taipei Medical University, 250 Wuxing Street, Taipei 11031, Taiwan
| | - Chetna Faujdar
- Department of Biotechnology, Jaypee Institute of Information Technology, Noida 201307, India
| | - Ram Sharma
- School of Pharmacy, College of Pharmacy, Taipei Medical University, 250 Wuxing Street, Taipei 11031, Taiwan
| | - Sachin Sharma
- School of Pharmacy, College of Pharmacy, Taipei Medical University, 250 Wuxing Street, Taipei 11031, Taiwan
| | - Basant Malik
- Department of Sterile Product Development, Research and Development-Unit 2, Jubiliant Generics Ltd., Noida 201301, India
| | - Kunal Nepali
- School of Pharmacy, College of Pharmacy, Taipei Medical University, 250 Wuxing Street, Taipei 11031, Taiwan
| | - Jing Ping Liou
- School of Pharmacy, College of Pharmacy, Taipei Medical University, 250 Wuxing Street, Taipei 11031, Taiwan
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18
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Cyclin-dependent kinases as potential targets for colorectal cancer: past, present and future. Future Med Chem 2022; 14:1087-1105. [PMID: 35703127 DOI: 10.4155/fmc-2022-0064] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/17/2022] Open
Abstract
Colorectal cancer (CRC) is a common cancer in the world and its prevalence is increasing in developing countries. Deregulated cell cycle traverse is a hallmark of malignant transformation and is often observed in CRC as a result of imprecise activity of cell cycle regulatory components, viz. cyclins and cyclin-dependent kinases (CDKs). Apart from cell cycle regulation, some CDKs also regulate processes such as transcription and have also been shown to be involved in colorectal carcinogenesis. This article aims to review cyclin-dependent kinases as potential targets for CRC. Furthermore, therapeutic candidates to target CDKs are also discussed.
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19
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Shen P, Wang Y, Jia X, Xu P, Qin L, Feng X, Li Z, Qiu Z. Dual-target Janus kinase (JAK) inhibitors: Comprehensive review on the JAK-based strategies for treating solid or hematological malignancies and immune-related diseases. Eur J Med Chem 2022; 239:114551. [PMID: 35749986 DOI: 10.1016/j.ejmech.2022.114551] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/29/2022] [Revised: 06/14/2022] [Accepted: 06/15/2022] [Indexed: 11/19/2022]
Abstract
Janus kinases (JAKs) are the non-receptor tyrosine kinases covering JAK1, JAK2, JAK3, and TYK2 which regulate signal transductions of hematopoietic cytokines and growth factors to play essential roles in cell growth, survival, and development. Dysregulated JAK activity leading to a constitutively activated signal transducers and activators of transcription (STAT) is strongly associated with immune-related diseases and cancers. Targeting JAK to interfere the signaling of JAK/STAT pathway has achieved quite success in the treatment of these diseases. However, inadequate clinical response and serious adverse events come along by the treatment of monotherapy of JAK inhibitors. With better and deeper understanding of JAK/STAT pathway in the pathogenesis of diseases, researchers start to show huge interest in combining inhibition of JAK and other oncogenic targets to realize a broader regulation on pathological processes to block disease development and progression, which has hastened extensive research of dual JAK inhibitors over the past decades. Until now, studies of dual JAK inhibitors have added BTK, SYK, FLT3, HDAC, Src, and Aurora kinases to the overall inhibitory profile and demonstrated significant advantage and superiority over single-target inhibitors. In this review, we elucidated the possible mechanism of synergic effects caused by dual JAK inhibitors and briefly describe the development of these agents.
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Affiliation(s)
- Pei Shen
- Department of Medicinal Chemistry, China Pharmaceutical University, 24 Tongjiaxiang, Nanjing, 210009, PR China
| | - Yezhi Wang
- Department of Medicinal Chemistry, China Pharmaceutical University, 24 Tongjiaxiang, Nanjing, 210009, PR China
| | - Xiangxiang Jia
- Department of Medicinal Chemistry, China Pharmaceutical University, 24 Tongjiaxiang, Nanjing, 210009, PR China
| | - Pengfei Xu
- Department of Medicinal Chemistry, China Pharmaceutical University, 24 Tongjiaxiang, Nanjing, 210009, PR China
| | - Lian Qin
- Department of Medicinal Chemistry, China Pharmaceutical University, 24 Tongjiaxiang, Nanjing, 210009, PR China
| | - Xi Feng
- Department of Medicinal Chemistry, China Pharmaceutical University, 24 Tongjiaxiang, Nanjing, 210009, PR China
| | - Zhiyu Li
- Department of Medicinal Chemistry, China Pharmaceutical University, 24 Tongjiaxiang, Nanjing, 210009, PR China; Jiangsu Key Laboratory of Drug Design and Optimization, China Pharmaceutical University, Nanjing, 21009, PR China.
| | - Zhixia Qiu
- Department of Medicinal Chemistry, China Pharmaceutical University, 24 Tongjiaxiang, Nanjing, 210009, PR China; Jiangsu Key Laboratory of Drug Design and Optimization, China Pharmaceutical University, Nanjing, 21009, PR China.
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20
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Elbadawy HA, Wahdan SA, El-Demerdash E. Effect of atorvastatin on single oral pharmacokinetics and safety of daclatasvir in rats: Emphasis on P-glycoprotein and cytochrome P450. Curr Drug Metab 2022; 23:484-495. [PMID: 35379125 DOI: 10.2174/1389200223666220404134524] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/10/2021] [Revised: 02/01/2022] [Accepted: 02/06/2022] [Indexed: 11/22/2022]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE This study was aimed to investigate the effect of atorvastatin on daclatasvir oral pharmacokinetics and safety and assess the possible underlining mechanisms through targeting P-glycoprotein (P-gp) and cytochrome P450 (CYP3A4). METHODS The transport of daclatasvir, as well as the standard rhodamine 123 by P-gp across the rat intestine, was studied in vitro using the non-everted sac method. To assess the pharmacokinetic profile of daclatasvir in vivo, rats were divided into three groups receiving either saline, a standard P-gp inhibitor verapamil (25 mg/kg), or atorvastatin (10 mg/kg), 2hrs prior to a single dose of daclatasvir (7 mg/kg). In addition, the markers of liver and kidney functions and muscle rhabdomyolysis were assessed. Further, histopathological examination of liver and kidney tissue and assessment of CYP3A4 level were done. RESULTS The inhibitory effect of atorvastatin on Pgp activity and expression was manifested by increased serosal transport of the standard rhodamine 123, as well as daclatasvir. In vivo, Cmax (peak plasma concentration) and Area under the curve (AUC (0-t)) of daclatasvir after atorvastatin treatment increased compared to vehicle group but not in a significant manner. On the other hand, atorvastatin caused a significant increase in the clearance of daclatasvir. Concomitant administration of atorvastatin with daclatasvir significantly decreased CYP3A4 content compared to the control group. The combination also showed increased liver enzymes and some pathological alterations in the liver. CONCLUSION Atorvastatin has a significant effect on P-gp mediated intestinal transport of daclatasvir, however, it did not affect the systemic bioavailability of a single oral dose of daclatasvir.
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Affiliation(s)
- Heba A Elbadawy
- Pharmacology & Toxicology Department, Faculty of Pharmacy, Ain Shams University, Cairo, Egypt
| | - Sara A Wahdan
- Pharmacology & Toxicology Department, Faculty of Pharmacy, Ain Shams University, Cairo, Egypt
| | - Ebtehal El-Demerdash
- Pharmacology & Toxicology Department, Faculty of Pharmacy, Ain Shams University, Cairo, Egypt
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21
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An Orally Bioavailable and Highly Efficacious Inhibitor of CDK9/FLT3 for the Treatment of Acute Myeloid Leukemia. Cancers (Basel) 2022; 14:cancers14051113. [PMID: 35267421 PMCID: PMC8909834 DOI: 10.3390/cancers14051113] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/31/2021] [Revised: 02/15/2022] [Accepted: 02/17/2022] [Indexed: 01/27/2023] Open
Abstract
Mutations in FMS-like tyrosine kinase 3 (FLT3) occur in approximately one-third of AML patients and are associated with a particularly poor prognosis. The most common mutation, FLT3-ITD, is a self-activating internal tandem duplication (ITD) in the FLT3 juxtamembrane domain. Many FLT3 inhibitors have shown encouraging results in clinical trials, but the rapid emergence of resistance has severely limited sustainable efficacy. Co-targeting of CDK9 and FLT3 is a promising two-pronged strategy to overcome resistance as the former plays a role in the transcription of cancer cell-survival genes. Most prominently, MCL-1 is known to be associated with AML tumorigenesis and drug resistance and can be down-regulated by CDK9 inhibition. We have developed CDDD11-8 as a potent CDK9 inhibitor co-targeting FLT3-ITD with Ki values of 8 and 13 nM, respectively. The kinome selectivity has been confirmed when the compound was tested in a panel of 369 human kinases. CDDD11-8 displayed antiproliferative activity against leukemia cell lines, and particularly potent effects were observed against MV4-11 and MOLM-13 cells, which are known to harbor the FLT3-ITD mutation and mixed lineage leukemia (MLL) fusion proteins. The mode of action was consistent with inhibition of CDK9 and FLT3-ITD. Most importantly, CDDD11-8 caused a robust tumor growth inhibition by oral administration in animal xenografts. At 125 mg/kg, CDDD11-8 induced tumor regression, and this was translated to an improved survival of animals. The study demonstrates the potential of CDDD11-8 towards the future development of a novel AML treatment.
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22
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Huang Z, Wang T, Wang C, Fan Y. CDK9 Inhibitors in Cancer Research. RSC Med Chem 2022; 13:688-710. [PMID: 35814933 PMCID: PMC9215160 DOI: 10.1039/d2md00040g] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/11/2022] [Accepted: 04/16/2022] [Indexed: 11/21/2022] Open
Abstract
Cyclin dependent kinase 9 (CDK9) played an essential role in regulating transcriptional elongation. Aberrations in CDK9 activity have been observed in various cancers, which made CDK9 was an attractive therapeutic...
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Affiliation(s)
- Zhi Huang
- Department of Medicinal Chemistry, School of Medicine, Nankai University 94 Weijin Road Tianjin 300071 China
- Anhui Province Key Laboratory of Medical Physics and Technology, Institute of Health and Medical Technology, Hefei Institutes of Physical Science, Chinese Academy of Sciences Hefei 230031 China
| | - Tianqi Wang
- Department of Medicinal Chemistry, School of Medicine, Nankai University 94 Weijin Road Tianjin 300071 China
| | - Cheng Wang
- Department of Medicinal Chemistry, School of Medicine, Nankai University 94 Weijin Road Tianjin 300071 China
| | - Yan Fan
- Department of Medicinal Chemistry, School of Medicine, Nankai University 94 Weijin Road Tianjin 300071 China
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Liu Y, Fu L, Wu J, Liu M, Wang G, Liu B, Zhang L. Transcriptional cyclin-dependent kinases: Potential drug targets in cancer therapy. Eur J Med Chem 2021; 229:114056. [PMID: 34942431 DOI: 10.1016/j.ejmech.2021.114056] [Citation(s) in RCA: 12] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/25/2021] [Revised: 12/14/2021] [Accepted: 12/14/2021] [Indexed: 02/08/2023]
Abstract
In the wake of the development of the concept of cell cycle and its limiting points, cyclin-dependent kinases (CDKs) are considered to play a central role in regulating cell cycle progression. Recent studies have strongly demonstrated that CDKs also has multiple functions, especially in response to extracellular and intracellular signals by interfering with transcriptional events. Consequently, how to inhibit their function has been a hot research topic. It is worth noting that the key role of CDKs in regulating transcription has been explored in recent years, but its related pharmacological targets are less developed, and most inhibitors have not entered the clinical stage. Accordingly, this perspective focus on the biological functions of transcription related CDKs and their complexes, some key upstream and downstream signals, and inhibitors for cancer treatment in recent years. In addition, some corresponding combined treatment strategies will provide a more novel perspective for future cancer remedy.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yi Liu
- Sichuan Engineering Research Center for Biomimetic Synthesis of Natural Drugs, School of Life Science and Engineering, Southwest Jiaotong University, 610031, Chengdu, China
| | - Leilei Fu
- Sichuan Engineering Research Center for Biomimetic Synthesis of Natural Drugs, School of Life Science and Engineering, Southwest Jiaotong University, 610031, Chengdu, China
| | - Junhao Wu
- Department of Otolaryngology, Head and Neck Surgery, West China Hospital, Sichuan University, Chengdu, China
| | - Ming Liu
- Department of Orthopedics, West China Hospital, Sichuan University, Chengdu, 610041, China.
| | - Guan Wang
- State Key Laboratory of Biotherapy and Cancer Center, Innovation Center of Nursing Research, Nursing Key Laboratory of Sichuan Province, West China Hospital, and Collaborative Innovation Center of Biotherapy, Sichuan University, Chengdu, 610041, China.
| | - Bo Liu
- State Key Laboratory of Biotherapy and Cancer Center, Innovation Center of Nursing Research, Nursing Key Laboratory of Sichuan Province, West China Hospital, and Collaborative Innovation Center of Biotherapy, Sichuan University, Chengdu, 610041, China
| | - Lan Zhang
- Sichuan Engineering Research Center for Biomimetic Synthesis of Natural Drugs, School of Life Science and Engineering, Southwest Jiaotong University, 610031, Chengdu, China.
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24
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Alsfouk A. Small molecule inhibitors of cyclin-dependent kinase 9 for cancer therapy. J Enzyme Inhib Med Chem 2021; 36:693-706. [PMID: 33632038 PMCID: PMC7919902 DOI: 10.1080/14756366.2021.1890726] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/05/2020] [Revised: 02/01/2021] [Accepted: 02/09/2021] [Indexed: 01/23/2023] Open
Abstract
Cyclin-dependent kinase 9 (CDK9) plays a vital role in transcription through regulation of short-lived anti-apoptotic genes required for cancer cell survival. Therefore, targeting CDK9 with small molecule inhibitors has emerged as a potential cancer therapy. This article reviews the most recent CDK9 patent literature (2012-2020) related to small molecule inhibitors in cancer along with their selectivity profile and biological results in preclinical studies.
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Affiliation(s)
- Aisha Alsfouk
- Department of Pharmaceutical Sciences, College of Pharmacy, Princess Nourah bint Abdulrahman University, Riyadh, Saudi Arabia
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25
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Montoya S, Soong D, Nguyen N, Affer M, Munamarty SP, Taylor J. Targeted Therapies in Cancer: To Be or Not to Be, Selective. Biomedicines 2021; 9:1591. [PMID: 34829820 PMCID: PMC8615814 DOI: 10.3390/biomedicines9111591] [Citation(s) in RCA: 12] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/29/2021] [Revised: 10/22/2021] [Accepted: 10/27/2021] [Indexed: 12/31/2022] Open
Abstract
Development of targeted therapies in recent years revealed several nonchemotherapeutic options for patients. Chief among targeted therapies is small molecule kinase inhibitors targeting key oncogenic signaling proteins. Through competitive and noncompetitive inhibition of these kinases, and therefore the pathways they activate, cancers can be slowed or completely eradicated, leading to partial or complete remissions for many cancer types. Unfortunately, for many patients, resistance to targeted therapies, such as kinase inhibitors, ultimately develops and can necessitate multiple lines of treatment. Drug resistance can either be de novo or acquired after months or years of drug exposure. Since resistance can be due to several unique mechanisms, there is no one-size-fits-all solution to this problem. However, combinations that target complimentary pathways or potential escape mechanisms appear to be more effective than sequential therapy. Combinations of single kinase inhibitors or alternately multikinase inhibitor drugs could be used to achieve this goal. Understanding how to efficiently target cancer cells and overcome resistance to prior lines of therapy became imperative to the success of cancer treatment. Due to the complexity of cancer, effective treatment options in the future will likely require mixing and matching these approaches in different cancer types and different disease stages.
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Affiliation(s)
| | | | | | | | | | - Justin Taylor
- Sylvester Comprehensive Cancer Center, Miller School of Medicine, University of Miami, 1501 NW 10th Avenue, Miami, FL 33136, USA; (S.M.); (D.S.); (N.N.); (M.A.); (S.P.M.)
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26
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Shaikh J, Patel K, Khan T. Advances in Pyrazole Based Scaffold as Cyclin-Dependent Kinase 2 Inhibitors for the Treatment of Cancer. Mini Rev Med Chem 2021; 22:1197-1215. [PMID: 34711160 DOI: 10.2174/1389557521666211027104957] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/20/2021] [Revised: 05/27/2021] [Accepted: 08/04/2021] [Indexed: 11/22/2022]
Abstract
The transformation of a normal cell into a tumor cell is one of the initial steps in cell cycle deregulation. The cell cycle is regulated by cyclin-dependent kinases (CDKs) that belong to the protein kinase family. CDK2 is an enchanting target for specific genotypes tumors since cyclin E is selective for CDK2 and the deregulation of specific cancer forms. Thus, CDKs inhibitor specifically CDK2/cyclin A-E has the potential to be a valid cancer target as per the currently undergoing clinical trials. Mostly pyrazole scaffolds have shown selectivity and potency for CDK2 inhibitors. This review demonstrates pyrazole and pyrazole fused with other heterocyclic rings for anti-proliferative activity. Based on the in vitro and molecular docking studies, the IC50 value of various hybrids is revealed to display the most potent analogs for CDK2 inhibition. Thus, the review emphasizes various lead analogs of pyrazole hybrids which can be found to be very potent and selective for anti-cancer drugs.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jahara Shaikh
- Department of Pharmaceutical Chemistry & Quality Assurance, SVKM'S Dr. Bhanuben Nanavati College of Pharmacy, Vile Parle (W), Mumbai-56. India
| | - Kavitkumar Patel
- Department of Pharmaceutical Chemistry & Quality Assurance, SVKM'S Dr. Bhanuben Nanavati College of Pharmacy, Vile Parle (W), Mumbai-56. India
| | - Tabassum Khan
- Department of Pharmaceutical Chemistry & Quality Assurance, SVKM'S Dr. Bhanuben Nanavati College of Pharmacy, Vile Parle (W), Mumbai-56. India
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27
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Bhurta D, Bharate SB. Analyzing the scaffold diversity of cyclin-dependent kinase inhibitors and revisiting the clinical and preclinical pipeline. Med Res Rev 2021; 42:654-709. [PMID: 34605036 DOI: 10.1002/med.21856] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/07/2020] [Revised: 07/04/2021] [Accepted: 09/21/2021] [Indexed: 12/17/2022]
Abstract
Kinases have gained an important place in the list of vital therapeutic targets because of their overwhelming clinical success in the last two decades. Among various clinically validated kinases, the cyclin-dependent kinases (CDK) are one of the extensively studied drug targets for clinical development. Food and Drug Administration has approved three CDK inhibitors for therapeutic use, and at least 27 inhibitors are under active clinical development. In the last decade, research and development in this area took a rapid pace, and thus the analysis of scaffold diversity is essential for future drug design. Available reviews lack the systematic study and discussion on the scaffold diversity of CDK inhibitors. Herein we have reviewed and critically analyzed the chemical diversity present in the preclinical and clinical pipeline of CDK inhibitors. Our analysis has shown that although several scaffolds represent CDK inhibitors, only the amino-pyrimidine is a well-represented scaffold. The three-nitrogen framework of amino-pyrimidine is a fundamental hinge-binding unit. Further, we have discussed the selectivity aspects among CDKs, the clinical trial dose-limiting toxicities, and highlighted the most advanced clinical candidates. We also discuss the changing paradigm towards selective inhibitors and an overview of ATP-binding pockets of all druggable CDKs. We carefully analyzed the clinical pipeline to unravel the candidates that are currently under active clinical development. In addition to the plenty of dual CDK4/6 inhibitors, there are many selective CDK7, CDK9, and CDK8/19 inhibitors in the clinical pipeline.
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Affiliation(s)
- Deendyal Bhurta
- Natural Products & Medicinal Chemistry Division, CSIR-Indian Institute of Integrative Medicine, Jammu, India.,Academy of Scientific & Innovative Research (AcSIR), Ghaziabad, India
| | - Sandip B Bharate
- Natural Products & Medicinal Chemistry Division, CSIR-Indian Institute of Integrative Medicine, Jammu, India.,Academy of Scientific & Innovative Research (AcSIR), Ghaziabad, India
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28
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Huang J, Wang X, Dong R, Liu X, Li H, Zhang T, Xu J, Liu C, Zhang Y, Hou S, Tang W, Lu T, Chen Y. Discovery of N-(4-(3-isopropyl-2-methyl-2 H-indazol-5-yl)pyrimidin-2-yl)-4-(4-methylpiperazin-1-yl)quinazolin-7-amine as a Novel, Potent, and Oral Cyclin-Dependent Kinase Inhibitor against Haematological Malignancies. J Med Chem 2021; 64:12548-12571. [PMID: 34415148 DOI: 10.1021/acs.jmedchem.1c00271] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/29/2022]
Abstract
Hematologic malignancies (HM) start in blood forming tissue or in the cells of the immune system. Cyclin-dependent kinases (CDKs) regulate cell cycle progression, and some of them control cellular transcription. CDK inhibition can trigger apoptosis and could be particularly useful in hematological malignancies. Herein, we describe our efforts toward the discovery of a novel series of quinazoline derivatives as CDK inhibitors. Intensive structural modifications lead to the identification of compound 37d as the most active inhibitors of CDKs 1, 2, 4, 8 and 9 with balancing potency and selectivity against CDKs. Further biological studies revealed that compound 37d can arrest the cell cycle and induce apoptosis via activating PARP and caspase 3. More importantly, compound 37d showed good antitumor efficacy in multiple HM mice xenograft models with no obvious toxicity. These results indicated that CDK 1, 2, 4, 8, and 9 inhibitors could be potentially used to treat certain hematologic malignancies.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jianhang Huang
- School of Sciences, China Pharmaceutical University, 639 Longmian Avenue, Nanjing 211198, PR China
| | - Xinren Wang
- School of Sciences, China Pharmaceutical University, 639 Longmian Avenue, Nanjing 211198, PR China
| | - Ruinan Dong
- School of Sciences, China Pharmaceutical University, 639 Longmian Avenue, Nanjing 211198, PR China
| | - Xiaoyue Liu
- School of Sciences, China Pharmaceutical University, 639 Longmian Avenue, Nanjing 211198, PR China
| | - Hongmei Li
- School of Sciences, China Pharmaceutical University, 639 Longmian Avenue, Nanjing 211198, PR China
| | - Tianyi Zhang
- School of Sciences, China Pharmaceutical University, 639 Longmian Avenue, Nanjing 211198, PR China
| | - Junyu Xu
- School of Sciences, China Pharmaceutical University, 639 Longmian Avenue, Nanjing 211198, PR China
| | - Chenhe Liu
- School of Sciences, China Pharmaceutical University, 639 Longmian Avenue, Nanjing 211198, PR China
| | - Yanmin Zhang
- School of Sciences, China Pharmaceutical University, 639 Longmian Avenue, Nanjing 211198, PR China
| | - Shaohua Hou
- School of Sciences, China Pharmaceutical University, 639 Longmian Avenue, Nanjing 211198, PR China
| | - Weifang Tang
- School of Sciences, China Pharmaceutical University, 639 Longmian Avenue, Nanjing 211198, PR China.,State Key Laboratory of Natural Medicines, China Pharmaceutical University, 24 Tongjiaxiang, Nanjing 210009, PR China
| | - Tao Lu
- School of Sciences, China Pharmaceutical University, 639 Longmian Avenue, Nanjing 211198, PR China.,State Key Laboratory of Natural Medicines, China Pharmaceutical University, 24 Tongjiaxiang, Nanjing 210009, PR China
| | - Yadong Chen
- School of Sciences, China Pharmaceutical University, 639 Longmian Avenue, Nanjing 211198, PR China
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29
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Ding AS, Huq S, Casaos J, Raj D, Morales M, Zhao T, Kim T, Srivastava S, Pant A, Serra R, Gorelick NL, Brem H, Tyler B. Targeting of cyclin-dependent kinases in atypical teratoid rhabdoid tumors with multikinase inhibitor TG02. J Neurosurg Pediatr 2021:1-10. [PMID: 34479190 DOI: 10.3171/2021.5.peds20920] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/24/2020] [Accepted: 05/21/2021] [Indexed: 11/06/2022]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE Atypical teratoid rhabdoid tumors (ATRTs) are aggressive pediatric brain tumors with no current standard of care and an estimated median patient survival of 12 to 18 months. Previous genetic analyses have implicated cyclin D1 and enhancer of zeste homolog 2 (EZH2), a histone methyltransferase that is implicated in many cancers, as key drivers of tumorigenicity in ATRTs. Since the effects of EZH2 and cyclin D1 are facilitated by a host of cyclin-dependent kinases (CDKs), the authors sought to investigate the potential therapeutic effects of targeting CDKs in ATRTs with the multi-CDK inhibitor, TG02. METHODS Human ATRT cell lines BT12, BT37, CHLA05, and CHLA06 were selected for investigation. The effects of TG02 on cell viability, proliferation, clonogenicity, and apoptosis were assessed via Cell Counting Kit-8 assays, cell counting, clonogenic assays, and flow cytometry, respectively. Similar methods were used to determine the effects of TG02 combined with radiation therapy (RT) or cisplatin. Synergism indices for TG02-cisplatin combination therapy were calculated using CompuSyn software. RESULTS TG02 was observed to significantly impair ATRT cell growth in vitro by limiting cell proliferation and clonogenicity, and by inducing apoptosis. TG02 inhibited ATRT cell proliferation and decreased cell viability in a dose-dependent manner with nanomolar half maximal effective concentration (EC50) values (BT12, 207.0 nM; BT37, 127.8 nM; CHLA05, 29.7 nM; CHLA06, 18.7 nM). TG02 (150 nM) dramatically increased the proportion of apoptotic ATRT cells 72 hours posttreatment (TG02 8.50% vs control 1.52% apoptotic cells in BT12, p < 0.0001; TG02 70.07% vs control 15.36%, p < 0.0001). Combination therapy studies revealed that TG02 acted as a potent radiosensitizer in ATRT cells (BT12 surviving fraction, RT 51.2% vs RT + TG02 21.7%). Finally, CompuSyn analysis demonstrated that TG02 acted synergistically with cisplatin against ATRT cells at virtually all therapeutic doses. These findings were consistent in cell lines that cover all three molecular subgroups of ATRTs. CONCLUSIONS The results of this investigation have established that TG02 is an effective therapeutic against ATRTs in vitro. Given the lack of standard therapy for ATRTs, these findings help fill an unmet need and support further study of TG02 as a potential therapeutic option for patients with this deadly disease.
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Affiliation(s)
- Andy S. Ding
- Hunterian Neurosurgical Laboratory, Department of Neurosurgery, Johns Hopkins University School of Medicine, Baltimore, Maryland
| | - Sakibul Huq
- Hunterian Neurosurgical Laboratory, Department of Neurosurgery, Johns Hopkins University School of Medicine, Baltimore, Maryland
| | - Joshua Casaos
- Hunterian Neurosurgical Laboratory, Department of Neurosurgery, Johns Hopkins University School of Medicine, Baltimore, Maryland
| | - Divyaansh Raj
- Hunterian Neurosurgical Laboratory, Department of Neurosurgery, Johns Hopkins University School of Medicine, Baltimore, Maryland
| | - Manuel Morales
- Hunterian Neurosurgical Laboratory, Department of Neurosurgery, Johns Hopkins University School of Medicine, Baltimore, Maryland
| | - Tianna Zhao
- Hunterian Neurosurgical Laboratory, Department of Neurosurgery, Johns Hopkins University School of Medicine, Baltimore, Maryland
| | - Timothy Kim
- Hunterian Neurosurgical Laboratory, Department of Neurosurgery, Johns Hopkins University School of Medicine, Baltimore, Maryland
| | - Siddhartha Srivastava
- Hunterian Neurosurgical Laboratory, Department of Neurosurgery, Johns Hopkins University School of Medicine, Baltimore, Maryland
| | - Ayush Pant
- Hunterian Neurosurgical Laboratory, Department of Neurosurgery, Johns Hopkins University School of Medicine, Baltimore, Maryland
| | - Riccardo Serra
- Hunterian Neurosurgical Laboratory, Department of Neurosurgery, Johns Hopkins University School of Medicine, Baltimore, Maryland
| | - Noah L. Gorelick
- Hunterian Neurosurgical Laboratory, Department of Neurosurgery, Johns Hopkins University School of Medicine, Baltimore, Maryland
| | - Henry Brem
- Hunterian Neurosurgical Laboratory, Department of Neurosurgery, Johns Hopkins University School of Medicine, Baltimore, Maryland
| | - Betty Tyler
- Hunterian Neurosurgical Laboratory, Department of Neurosurgery, Johns Hopkins University School of Medicine, Baltimore, Maryland
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30
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Ahmadi SE, Rahimi S, Zarandi B, Chegeni R, Safa M. MYC: a multipurpose oncogene with prognostic and therapeutic implications in blood malignancies. J Hematol Oncol 2021; 14:121. [PMID: 34372899 PMCID: PMC8351444 DOI: 10.1186/s13045-021-01111-4] [Citation(s) in RCA: 74] [Impact Index Per Article: 24.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/08/2021] [Accepted: 06/12/2021] [Indexed: 12/17/2022] Open
Abstract
MYC oncogene is a transcription factor with a wide array of functions affecting cellular activities such as cell cycle, apoptosis, DNA damage response, and hematopoiesis. Due to the multi-functionality of MYC, its expression is regulated at multiple levels. Deregulation of this oncogene can give rise to a variety of cancers. In this review, MYC regulation and the mechanisms by which MYC adjusts cellular functions and its implication in hematologic malignancies are summarized. Further, we also discuss potential inhibitors of MYC that could be beneficial for treating hematologic malignancies.
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Affiliation(s)
- Seyed Esmaeil Ahmadi
- Department of Hematology and Blood Banking, Faculty of Allied Medicine, Iran University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran
| | - Samira Rahimi
- Department of Hematology and Blood Banking, Faculty of Allied Medicine, Iran University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran
| | - Bahman Zarandi
- Department of Hematology and Blood Banking, Faculty of Allied Medicine, Iran University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran
| | - Rouzbeh Chegeni
- Medical Laboratory Sciences Program, College of Health and Human Sciences, Northern Illinois University, DeKalb, IL, USA.
| | - Majid Safa
- Department of Hematology and Blood Banking, Faculty of Allied Medicine, Iran University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran.
- Cellular and Molecular Research Center, Iran University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran.
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31
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Small molecule ERK5 kinase inhibitors paradoxically activate ERK5 signalling: be careful what you wish for…. Biochem Soc Trans 2021; 48:1859-1875. [PMID: 32915196 PMCID: PMC7609025 DOI: 10.1042/bst20190338] [Citation(s) in RCA: 12] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/25/2020] [Revised: 08/06/2020] [Accepted: 08/10/2020] [Indexed: 12/15/2022]
Abstract
ERK5 is a protein kinase that also contains a nuclear localisation signal and a transcriptional transactivation domain. Inhibition of ERK5 has therapeutic potential in cancer and inflammation and this has prompted the development of ERK5 kinase inhibitors (ERK5i). However, few ERK5i programmes have taken account of the ERK5 transactivation domain. We have recently shown that the binding of small molecule ERK5i to the ERK5 kinase domain stimulates nuclear localisation and paradoxical activation of its transactivation domain. Other kinase inhibitors paradoxically activate their intended kinase target, in some cases leading to severe physiological consequences highlighting the importance of mitigating these effects. Here, we review the assays used to monitor ERK5 activities (kinase and transcriptional) in cells, the challenges faced in development of small molecule inhibitors to the ERK5 pathway, and classify the molecular mechanisms of paradoxical activation of protein kinases by kinase inhibitors.
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32
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Ranjan A, Pang Y, Butler M, Merchant M, Kim O, Yu G, Su YT, Gilbert MR, Levens D, Wu J. Targeting CDK9 for the Treatment of Glioblastoma. Cancers (Basel) 2021; 13:3039. [PMID: 34207158 PMCID: PMC8234280 DOI: 10.3390/cancers13123039] [Citation(s) in RCA: 14] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/28/2021] [Revised: 06/15/2021] [Accepted: 06/16/2021] [Indexed: 12/15/2022] Open
Abstract
Glioblastoma is the most common and aggressive primary malignant brain tumor, and more than two-thirds of patients with glioblastoma die within two years of diagnosis. The challenges of treating this disease mainly include genetic and microenvironmental features that often render the tumor resistant to treatments. Despite extensive research efforts, only a small number of drugs tested in clinical trials have become therapies for patients. Targeting cyclin-dependent kinase 9 (CDK9) is an emerging therapeutic approach that has the potential to overcome the challenges in glioblastoma management. Here, we discuss how CDK9 inhibition can impact transcription, metabolism, DNA damage repair, epigenetics, and the immune response to facilitate an anti-tumor response. Moreover, we discuss small-molecule inhibitors of CDK9 in clinical trials and future perspectives on the use of CDK9 inhibitors in treating patients with glioblastoma.
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Affiliation(s)
- Alice Ranjan
- Neuro-Oncology Branch, Center for Cancer Research, National Cancer Institute, Bethesda, MD 20892, USA; (A.R.); (Y.P.); (M.B.); (M.M.); (O.K.); (G.Y.); (Y.-T.S.); (M.R.G.)
| | - Ying Pang
- Neuro-Oncology Branch, Center for Cancer Research, National Cancer Institute, Bethesda, MD 20892, USA; (A.R.); (Y.P.); (M.B.); (M.M.); (O.K.); (G.Y.); (Y.-T.S.); (M.R.G.)
| | - Madison Butler
- Neuro-Oncology Branch, Center for Cancer Research, National Cancer Institute, Bethesda, MD 20892, USA; (A.R.); (Y.P.); (M.B.); (M.M.); (O.K.); (G.Y.); (Y.-T.S.); (M.R.G.)
| | - Mythili Merchant
- Neuro-Oncology Branch, Center for Cancer Research, National Cancer Institute, Bethesda, MD 20892, USA; (A.R.); (Y.P.); (M.B.); (M.M.); (O.K.); (G.Y.); (Y.-T.S.); (M.R.G.)
| | - Olga Kim
- Neuro-Oncology Branch, Center for Cancer Research, National Cancer Institute, Bethesda, MD 20892, USA; (A.R.); (Y.P.); (M.B.); (M.M.); (O.K.); (G.Y.); (Y.-T.S.); (M.R.G.)
| | - Guangyang Yu
- Neuro-Oncology Branch, Center for Cancer Research, National Cancer Institute, Bethesda, MD 20892, USA; (A.R.); (Y.P.); (M.B.); (M.M.); (O.K.); (G.Y.); (Y.-T.S.); (M.R.G.)
| | - Yu-Ting Su
- Neuro-Oncology Branch, Center for Cancer Research, National Cancer Institute, Bethesda, MD 20892, USA; (A.R.); (Y.P.); (M.B.); (M.M.); (O.K.); (G.Y.); (Y.-T.S.); (M.R.G.)
| | - Mark R. Gilbert
- Neuro-Oncology Branch, Center for Cancer Research, National Cancer Institute, Bethesda, MD 20892, USA; (A.R.); (Y.P.); (M.B.); (M.M.); (O.K.); (G.Y.); (Y.-T.S.); (M.R.G.)
| | - David Levens
- Laboratory of Pathology, Center for Cancer Research, National Cancer Institute, Bethesda, MD 20892, USA;
| | - Jing Wu
- Neuro-Oncology Branch, Center for Cancer Research, National Cancer Institute, Bethesda, MD 20892, USA; (A.R.); (Y.P.); (M.B.); (M.M.); (O.K.); (G.Y.); (Y.-T.S.); (M.R.G.)
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33
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Wu J, Yuan Y, Long Priel DA, Fink D, Peer CJ, Sissung TM, Su YT, Pang Y, Yu G, Butler MK, Mendoza TR, Vera E, Ahmad S, Bryla C, Lindsley M, Grajkowska E, Mentges K, Boris L, Antony R, Garren N, Siegel C, Lollo N, Cordova C, Aboud O, Theeler BJ, Burton EM, Penas-Prado M, Leeper H, Gonzales J, Armstrong TS, Calvo KR, Figg WD, Kuhns DB, Gallin JI, Gilbert MR. Phase I Study of Zotiraciclib in Combination with Temozolomide for Patients with Recurrent High-grade Astrocytomas. Clin Cancer Res 2021; 27:3298-3306. [PMID: 33785481 PMCID: PMC8197750 DOI: 10.1158/1078-0432.ccr-20-4730] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/07/2020] [Revised: 02/03/2021] [Accepted: 03/24/2021] [Indexed: 01/31/2023]
Abstract
PURPOSE To investigate the toxicity profile and establish an optimal dosing schedule of zotiraciclib with temozolomide in patients with recurrent high-grade astrocytoma. PATIENTS AND METHODS This two-stage phase I trial determined the MTD of zotiraciclib combined with either dose-dense (Arm1) or metronomic (Arm2) temozolomide using a Bayesian Optimal Interval design; then a randomized cohort expansion compared the progression-free survival rate at 4 months (PFS4) of the two arms for an efficient determination of a temozolomide schedule to combine with zotiraciclib at MTD. Pharmacokinetic and pharmacogenomic profiling were included. Patient-reported outcome was evaluated by longitudinal symptom burden. RESULTS Fifty-three patients were enrolled. Dose-limiting toxicities were neutropenia, diarrhea, elevated liver enzymes, and fatigue. MTD of zotiraciclib was 250 mg in both arms and thus selected for the cohort expansion. Dose-dense temozolomide plus zotiraciclib (PSF4 40%) compared favorably with metronomic temozolomide (PFS4 25%). Symptom burden worsened at cycle 2 but stabilized by cycle 4 in both arms. A significant decrease in absolute neutrophil count and neutrophil reactive oxygen species production occurred 12-24 hours after an oral dose of zotiraciclib but both recovered by 72 hours. Pharmacokinetic/pharmacogenomic analyses revealed that the CYP1A2_5347T>C (rs2470890) polymorphism was associated with higher AUCinf value. CONCLUSIONS Zotiraciclib combined with temozolomide is safe in patients with recurrent high-grade astrocytomas. Zotiraciclib-induced neutropenia can be profound but mostly transient, warranting close monitoring rather than treatment discontinuation. Once validated, polymorphisms predicting drug metabolism may allow personalized dosing of zotiraciclib.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jing Wu
- Neuro-Oncology Branch, Center for Cancer Research, NCI, NIH, Bethesda, Maryland.
| | - Ying Yuan
- Department of Biostatistics, The University of Texas MD Anderson Cancer Center, Houston, Texas
| | - Debra A Long Priel
- Neutrophil Monitoring Laboratory, Frederick National Laboratory for Cancer Research, Frederick, Maryland
| | - Danielle Fink
- Neutrophil Monitoring Laboratory, Frederick National Laboratory for Cancer Research, Frederick, Maryland
| | - Cody J Peer
- Clinical Pharmacology Program, Center for Cancer Research, NCI, NIH, Bethesda, Maryland
| | - Tristan M Sissung
- Clinical Pharmacology Program, Center for Cancer Research, NCI, NIH, Bethesda, Maryland
| | - Yu-Ting Su
- Neuro-Oncology Branch, Center for Cancer Research, NCI, NIH, Bethesda, Maryland
| | - Ying Pang
- Neuro-Oncology Branch, Center for Cancer Research, NCI, NIH, Bethesda, Maryland
| | - Guangyang Yu
- Neuro-Oncology Branch, Center for Cancer Research, NCI, NIH, Bethesda, Maryland
| | - Madison K Butler
- Neuro-Oncology Branch, Center for Cancer Research, NCI, NIH, Bethesda, Maryland
| | - Tito R Mendoza
- Department of Symptom Research, The University of Texas MD Anderson Cancer Center, Houston, Texas
| | - Elizabeth Vera
- Neuro-Oncology Branch, Center for Cancer Research, NCI, NIH, Bethesda, Maryland
| | | | - Christine Bryla
- Neuro-Oncology Branch, Center for Cancer Research, NCI, NIH, Bethesda, Maryland
| | - Matthew Lindsley
- Neuro-Oncology Branch, Center for Cancer Research, NCI, NIH, Bethesda, Maryland
| | - Ewa Grajkowska
- Neuro-Oncology Branch, Center for Cancer Research, NCI, NIH, Bethesda, Maryland
| | - Kelly Mentges
- Neuro-Oncology Branch, Center for Cancer Research, NCI, NIH, Bethesda, Maryland
| | - Lisa Boris
- Neuro-Oncology Branch, Center for Cancer Research, NCI, NIH, Bethesda, Maryland
| | - Ramya Antony
- Neuro-Oncology Branch, Center for Cancer Research, NCI, NIH, Bethesda, Maryland
| | - Nancy Garren
- Neuro-Oncology Branch, Center for Cancer Research, NCI, NIH, Bethesda, Maryland
| | - Christine Siegel
- Neuro-Oncology Branch, Center for Cancer Research, NCI, NIH, Bethesda, Maryland
| | - Nicole Lollo
- Neuro-Oncology Branch, Center for Cancer Research, NCI, NIH, Bethesda, Maryland
| | - Christine Cordova
- Neuro-Oncology Branch, Center for Cancer Research, NCI, NIH, Bethesda, Maryland
| | - Orwa Aboud
- Neuro-Oncology Branch, Center for Cancer Research, NCI, NIH, Bethesda, Maryland
| | - Brett J Theeler
- Neuro-Oncology Branch, Center for Cancer Research, NCI, NIH, Bethesda, Maryland
| | - Eric M Burton
- Neuro-Oncology Branch, Center for Cancer Research, NCI, NIH, Bethesda, Maryland
| | - Marta Penas-Prado
- Neuro-Oncology Branch, Center for Cancer Research, NCI, NIH, Bethesda, Maryland
| | - Heather Leeper
- Neuro-Oncology Branch, Center for Cancer Research, NCI, NIH, Bethesda, Maryland
| | - Javier Gonzales
- Neuro-Oncology Branch, Center for Cancer Research, NCI, NIH, Bethesda, Maryland
| | - Terri S Armstrong
- Neuro-Oncology Branch, Center for Cancer Research, NCI, NIH, Bethesda, Maryland
| | | | - William D Figg
- Clinical Pharmacology Program, Center for Cancer Research, NCI, NIH, Bethesda, Maryland
| | - Douglas B Kuhns
- Neutrophil Monitoring Laboratory, Frederick National Laboratory for Cancer Research, Frederick, Maryland
| | | | - Mark R Gilbert
- Neuro-Oncology Branch, Center for Cancer Research, NCI, NIH, Bethesda, Maryland
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Amrhein JA, Knapp S, Hanke T. Synthetic Opportunities and Challenges for Macrocyclic Kinase Inhibitors. J Med Chem 2021; 64:7991-8009. [PMID: 34076436 DOI: 10.1021/acs.jmedchem.1c00217] [Citation(s) in RCA: 33] [Impact Index Per Article: 11.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/01/2023]
Abstract
Macrocycles are typically cyclic variants of inhibitors derived from uncyclized canonical molecules or from natural products. For medicinal chemistry, drug-like macrocycles have received increasing interest over the past few years, since it has been demonstrated that macrocyclization can favorably alter the biological and physiochemical properties as well as selectivity in comparison to the acyclic analogue. Recent drug approvals such as Lorlatinib, glecaprevir, or voxilaprevir underline the clinical relevance of drug-like macrocycles. However, the synthesis of drug-like macrocycles can be challenging, since the ring-closing reaction is generally challenging with yields depending on the size and geometry of the bridging linker. Nevertheless, macrocycles are one opportunity to expand the synthetic toolbox for medicinal chemistry to provide bioactive molecules. Therefore, we reviewed the past literature of drug-like macrocycles highlighting reactions that have been successfully used for the macrocyclization. We classified the cyclization reactions by their type, ring-size, yield, and macrocyclization efficiency index.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jennifer Alisa Amrhein
- Institute for Pharmaceutical Chemistry, Johann Wolfgang Goethe-University, Max-von-Laue-Str. 9, D-60438 Frankfurt am Main, Germany.,Structure Genomics Consortium Buchmann Institute for Molecular Life Sciences, Johann Wolfgang Goethe-University, Max-von-Laue-Str. 15, D-60438 Frankfurt am Main, Germany
| | - Stefan Knapp
- Institute for Pharmaceutical Chemistry, Johann Wolfgang Goethe-University, Max-von-Laue-Str. 9, D-60438 Frankfurt am Main, Germany.,Structure Genomics Consortium Buchmann Institute for Molecular Life Sciences, Johann Wolfgang Goethe-University, Max-von-Laue-Str. 15, D-60438 Frankfurt am Main, Germany
| | - Thomas Hanke
- Institute for Pharmaceutical Chemistry, Johann Wolfgang Goethe-University, Max-von-Laue-Str. 9, D-60438 Frankfurt am Main, Germany.,Structure Genomics Consortium Buchmann Institute for Molecular Life Sciences, Johann Wolfgang Goethe-University, Max-von-Laue-Str. 15, D-60438 Frankfurt am Main, Germany
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Cyclin-Dependent Kinase Inhibitors in Hematological Malignancies-Current Understanding, (Pre-)Clinical Application and Promising Approaches. Cancers (Basel) 2021; 13:cancers13102497. [PMID: 34065376 PMCID: PMC8161389 DOI: 10.3390/cancers13102497] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/29/2021] [Revised: 05/10/2021] [Accepted: 05/18/2021] [Indexed: 12/18/2022] Open
Abstract
Simple Summary Cyclin-dependent kinases are involved in the regulation of cancer-initiating processes like cell cycle progression, transcription, and DNA repair. In hematological neoplasms, these enzymes are often overexpressed, resulting in increased cell proliferation and cancer progression. Early (pre-)clinical data using cyclin-dependent kinase inhibitors are promising but identifying the right drug for each subgroup and patient is challenging. Certain chromosomal abnormalities and signaling molecule activities are considered as potential biomarkers. We therefore summarized relevant studies investigating cyclin-dependent kinase inhibitors in hematological malignancies and further discuss molecular mechanisms of resistance and other open questions. Abstract Genetically altered stem or progenitor cells feature gross chromosomal abnormalities, inducing modified ability of self-renewal and abnormal hematopoiesis. Cyclin-dependent kinases (CDK) regulate cell cycle progression, transcription, DNA repair and are aberrantly expressed in hematopoietic malignancies. Incorporation of CDK inhibitors (CDKIs) into the existing therapeutic regimens therefore constitutes a promising strategy. However, the complex molecular heterogeneity and different clinical presentation is challenging for selecting the right target and defining the ideal combination to mediate long-term disease control. Preclinical and early clinical data suggest that specific CDKIs have activity in selected patients, dependent on the existing rearrangements and mutations, potentially acting as biomarkers. Indeed, CDK6, expressed in hematopoietic cells, is a direct target of MLL fusion proteins often observed in acute leukemia and thus contributes to leukemogenesis. The high frequency of aberrancies in the retinoblastoma pathway additionally warrants application of CDKIs in hematopoietic neoplasms. In this review, we describe the preclinical and clinical advances recently made in the use of CDKIs. These include the FDA-approved CDK4/6 inhibitors, traditional and novel pan-CDKIs, as well as dual kinase inhibitors. We additionally provide an overview on molecular mechanisms of response vs. resistance and discuss open questions.
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Anshabo AT, Milne R, Wang S, Albrecht H. CDK9: A Comprehensive Review of Its Biology, and Its Role as a Potential Target for Anti-Cancer Agents. Front Oncol 2021; 11:678559. [PMID: 34041038 PMCID: PMC8143439 DOI: 10.3389/fonc.2021.678559] [Citation(s) in RCA: 66] [Impact Index Per Article: 22.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/09/2021] [Accepted: 04/16/2021] [Indexed: 12/25/2022] Open
Abstract
Cyclin-dependent kinases (CDKs) are proteins pivotal to a wide range of cellular functions, most importantly cell division and transcription, and their dysregulations have been implicated as prominent drivers of tumorigenesis. Besides the well-established role of cell cycle CDKs in cancer, the involvement of transcriptional CDKs has been confirmed more recently. Most cancers overtly employ CDKs that serve as key regulators of transcription (e.g., CDK9) for a continuous production of short-lived gene products that maintain their survival. As such, dysregulation of the CDK9 pathway has been observed in various hematological and solid malignancies, making it a valuable anticancer target. This therapeutic potential has been utilized for the discovery of CDK9 inhibitors, some of which have entered human clinical trials. This review provides a comprehensive discussion on the structure and biology of CDK9, its role in solid and hematological cancers, and an updated review of the available inhibitors currently being investigated in preclinical and clinical settings.
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Affiliation(s)
- Abel Tesfaye Anshabo
- Drug Discovery and Development, Centre for Cancer Diagnostics and Therapeutics, Clinical and Health Sciences, University of South Australia, Adelaide, SA, Australia
| | - Robert Milne
- Drug Discovery and Development, Centre for Cancer Diagnostics and Therapeutics, Clinical and Health Sciences, University of South Australia, Adelaide, SA, Australia
| | - Shudong Wang
- Drug Discovery and Development, Centre for Cancer Diagnostics and Therapeutics, Clinical and Health Sciences, University of South Australia, Adelaide, SA, Australia
| | - Hugo Albrecht
- Drug Discovery and Development, Centre for Cancer Diagnostics and Therapeutics, Clinical and Health Sciences, University of South Australia, Adelaide, SA, Australia
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Goel B, Tripathi N, Bhardwaj N, Jain SK. Small Molecule CDK Inhibitors for the Therapeutic Management of Cancer. Curr Top Med Chem 2021; 20:1535-1563. [PMID: 32416692 DOI: 10.2174/1568026620666200516152756] [Citation(s) in RCA: 24] [Impact Index Per Article: 8.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/25/2020] [Revised: 04/14/2020] [Accepted: 04/17/2020] [Indexed: 01/03/2023]
Abstract
Cyclin-dependent kinases (CDKs) are a group of multifunctional enzymes consisting of catalytic and regulatory subunits. The regulatory subunit, cyclin, remains dissociated under normal circumstances, and complexation of cyclin with the catalytic subunit of CDK leads to its activation for phosphorylation of protein substrates. The primary role of CDKs is in the regulation of the cell cycle. Retinoblastoma protein (Rb) is one of the widely investigated tumor suppressor protein substrates of CDK, which prevents cells from entering into cell-cycle under normal conditions. Phosphorylation of Rb by CDKs causes its inactivation and ultimately allows cells to enter a new cell cycle. Many cancers are associated with hyperactivation of CDKs as a result of mutation of the CDK genes or CDK inhibitor genes. Therefore, CDK modulators are of great interest to explore as novel therapeutic agents against cancer and led to the discovery of several CDK inhibitors to clinics. This review focuses on the current progress and development of anti-cancer CDK inhibitors from preclinical to clinical and synthetic to natural small molecules.
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Affiliation(s)
- Bharat Goel
- Department of Pharmaceutical Engineering and Technology, Indian Institute of Technology (Banaras Hindu University), Varanasi-221005, India
| | - Nancy Tripathi
- Department of Pharmaceutical Engineering and Technology, Indian Institute of Technology (Banaras Hindu University), Varanasi-221005, India
| | - Nivedita Bhardwaj
- Department of Pharmaceutical Engineering and Technology, Indian Institute of Technology (Banaras Hindu University), Varanasi-221005, India
| | - Shreyans K Jain
- Department of Pharmaceutical Engineering and Technology, Indian Institute of Technology (Banaras Hindu University), Varanasi-221005, India
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Hoang VT, Matossian MD, La J, Hoang K, Ucar DA, Elliott S, Burks HE, Wright TD, Patel S, Bhatt A, Phamduy T, Chrisey D, Buechlein A, Rusch DB, Nephew KP, Anbalagan M, Rowan B, Cavanaugh JE, Flaherty PT, Miele L, Collins-Burow BM, Burow ME. Dual inhibition of MEK1/2 and MEK5 suppresses the EMT/migration axis in triple-negative breast cancer through FRA-1 regulation. J Cell Biochem 2021; 122:835-850. [PMID: 33876843 DOI: 10.1002/jcb.29916] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/11/2020] [Revised: 02/22/2021] [Accepted: 02/25/2021] [Indexed: 01/03/2023]
Abstract
Triple-negative breast cancer (TNBC) presents a clinical challenge due to the aggressive nature of the disease and a lack of targeted therapies. Constitutive activation of the mitogen-activated protein kinase (MAPK)/extracellular signal-regulated kinase (ERK) pathway has been linked to chemoresistance and metastatic progression through distinct mechanisms, including activation of epithelial-to-mesenchymal transition (EMT) when cells adopt a motile and invasive phenotype through loss of epithelial markers (CDH1), and acquisition of mesenchymal markers (VIM, CDH2). Although MAPK/ERK1/2 kinase inhibitors (MEKi) are useful antitumor agents in a clinical setting, including the Food and Drug Administration (FDA)-approved MEK1,2 dual inhibitors cobimetinib and trametinib, there are limitations to their clinical utility, primarily adaptation of the BRAF pathway and ocular toxicities. The MEK5 (HGNC: MAP2K5) pathway has important roles in metastatic progression of various cancer types, including those of the prostate, colon, bone and breast, and elevated levels of ERK5 expression in breast carcinomas are linked to a worse prognoses in TNBC patients. The purpose of this study is to explore MEK5 regulation of the EMT axis and to evaluate a novel pan-MEK inhibitor on clinically aggressive TNBC cells. Our results show a distinction between the MEK1/2 and MEK5 cascades in maintenance of the mesenchymal phenotype, suggesting that the MEK5 pathway may be necessary and sufficient in EMT regulation while MEK1/2 signaling further sustains the mesenchymal state of TNBC cells. Furthermore, additive effects on MET induction are evident through the inhibition of both MEK1/2 and MEK5. Taken together, these data demonstrate the need for a better understanding of the individual roles of MEK1/2 and MEK5 signaling in breast cancer and provide a rationale for the combined targeting of these pathways to circumvent compensatory signaling and subsequent therapeutic resistance.
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Affiliation(s)
- Van T Hoang
- Department of Medicine, Section of Hematology and Oncology, Tulane University School of Medicine, New Orleans, Louisiana, USA
| | - Margarite D Matossian
- Department of Medicine, Section of Hematology and Oncology, Tulane University School of Medicine, New Orleans, Louisiana, USA
| | - Jacqueline La
- Department of Medicine, Section of Hematology and Oncology, Tulane University School of Medicine, New Orleans, Louisiana, USA
| | - Kristine Hoang
- Department of Medicine, Section of Hematology and Oncology, Tulane University School of Medicine, New Orleans, Louisiana, USA
| | - Deniz A Ucar
- Department of Genetics and Stanley S. Scott Cancer Center, LSUHSC, New Orleans, Louisiana, USA
| | - Steven Elliott
- Department of Medicine, Section of Hematology and Oncology, Tulane University School of Medicine, New Orleans, Louisiana, USA
| | - Hope E Burks
- Department of Medicine, Section of Hematology and Oncology, Tulane University School of Medicine, New Orleans, Louisiana, USA
| | - Thomas D Wright
- Department of Pharmacology, Duquesne University, School of Pharmacy, Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania, USA
| | - Saloni Patel
- Department of Pharmacology, Duquesne University, School of Pharmacy, Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania, USA
| | - Akshita Bhatt
- Department of Pharmacology, Duquesne University, School of Pharmacy, Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania, USA
| | - Theresa Phamduy
- Department of Physics, Tulane University, New Orleans, Louisiana, USA
| | - Douglas Chrisey
- Department of Physics, Tulane University, New Orleans, Louisiana, USA
| | - Aaron Buechlein
- Medical Sciences Program, Indiana University School of Medicine-Bloomington, Bloomington, Indiana, USA
| | - Douglas B Rusch
- Center for Genomics and Bioinformatics, Indiana University, Bloomington, Indiana, USA
| | - Kenneth P Nephew
- Medical Sciences Program, Indiana University School of Medicine-Bloomington, Bloomington, Indiana, USA
| | - Murali Anbalagan
- Department of Structural and Cellular Biology, Tulane University School of Medicine, New Orleans, Louisiana, USA
| | - Brian Rowan
- Department of Structural and Cellular Biology, Tulane University School of Medicine, New Orleans, Louisiana, USA
| | - Jane E Cavanaugh
- Department of Pharmacology, Duquesne University, School of Pharmacy, Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania, USA
| | - Patrick T Flaherty
- Department of Medicinal Chemistry, Duquesne University, School of Pharmacy, Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania, USA
| | - Lucio Miele
- Department of Genetics and Stanley S. Scott Cancer Center, LSUHSC, New Orleans, Louisiana, USA
| | - Bridgette M Collins-Burow
- Department of Medicine, Section of Hematology and Oncology, Tulane University School of Medicine, New Orleans, Louisiana, USA.,Tulane Cancer Center, New Orleans, Louisiana, USA
| | - Matthew E Burow
- Department of Medicine, Section of Hematology and Oncology, Tulane University School of Medicine, New Orleans, Louisiana, USA
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Cruz Da Silva E, Mercier MC, Etienne-Selloum N, Dontenwill M, Choulier L. A Systematic Review of Glioblastoma-Targeted Therapies in Phases II, III, IV Clinical Trials. Cancers (Basel) 2021; 13:1795. [PMID: 33918704 PMCID: PMC8069979 DOI: 10.3390/cancers13081795] [Citation(s) in RCA: 61] [Impact Index Per Article: 20.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/12/2021] [Revised: 03/19/2021] [Accepted: 03/26/2021] [Indexed: 02/07/2023] Open
Abstract
Glioblastoma (GBM), the most frequent and aggressive glial tumor, is currently treated as first line by the Stupp protocol, which combines, after surgery, radiotherapy and chemotherapy. For recurrent GBM, in absence of standard treatment or available clinical trials, various protocols including cytotoxic drugs and/or bevacizumab are currently applied. Despite these heavy treatments, the mean overall survival of patients is under 18 months. Many clinical studies are underway. Based on clinicaltrials.org and conducted up to 1 April 2020, this review lists, not only main, but all targeted therapies in phases II-IV of 257 clinical trials on adults with newly diagnosed or recurrent GBMs for the last twenty years. It does not involve targeted immunotherapies and therapies targeting tumor cell metabolism, that are well documented in other reviews. Without surprise, the most frequently reported drugs are those targeting (i) EGFR (40 clinical trials), and more generally tyrosine kinase receptors (85 clinical trials) and (ii) VEGF/VEGFR (75 clinical trials of which 53 involving bevacizumab). But many other targets and drugs are of interest. They are all listed and thoroughly described, on an one-on-one basis, in four sections related to targeting (i) GBM stem cells and stem cell pathways, (ii) the growth autonomy and migration, (iii) the cell cycle and the escape to cell death, (iv) and angiogenesis.
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Affiliation(s)
- Elisabete Cruz Da Silva
- CNRS, UMR 7021, Laboratoire de Bioimagerie et Pathologies, Faculté de Pharmacie, Université de Strasbourg, 67401 Illkirch, France; (E.C.D.S.); (M.-C.M.); (N.E.-S.); (M.D.)
| | - Marie-Cécile Mercier
- CNRS, UMR 7021, Laboratoire de Bioimagerie et Pathologies, Faculté de Pharmacie, Université de Strasbourg, 67401 Illkirch, France; (E.C.D.S.); (M.-C.M.); (N.E.-S.); (M.D.)
| | - Nelly Etienne-Selloum
- CNRS, UMR 7021, Laboratoire de Bioimagerie et Pathologies, Faculté de Pharmacie, Université de Strasbourg, 67401 Illkirch, France; (E.C.D.S.); (M.-C.M.); (N.E.-S.); (M.D.)
- Service de Pharmacie, Institut de Cancérologie Strasbourg Europe, 67200 Strasbourg, France
| | - Monique Dontenwill
- CNRS, UMR 7021, Laboratoire de Bioimagerie et Pathologies, Faculté de Pharmacie, Université de Strasbourg, 67401 Illkirch, France; (E.C.D.S.); (M.-C.M.); (N.E.-S.); (M.D.)
| | - Laurence Choulier
- CNRS, UMR 7021, Laboratoire de Bioimagerie et Pathologies, Faculté de Pharmacie, Université de Strasbourg, 67401 Illkirch, France; (E.C.D.S.); (M.-C.M.); (N.E.-S.); (M.D.)
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Chen R, Tsai J, Thompson PA, Chen Y, Xiong P, Liu C, Burrows F, Sivina M, Burger JA, Keating MJ, Wierda WG, Plunkett W. The multi-kinase inhibitor TG02 induces apoptosis and blocks B-cell receptor signaling in chronic lymphocytic leukemia through dual mechanisms of action. Blood Cancer J 2021; 11:57. [PMID: 33714981 PMCID: PMC7956145 DOI: 10.1038/s41408-021-00436-0] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/07/2020] [Revised: 01/13/2021] [Accepted: 01/25/2021] [Indexed: 02/06/2023] Open
Abstract
The constitutive activation of B-cell receptor (BCR) signaling, together with the overexpression of the Bcl-2 family anti-apoptotic proteins, represents two hallmarks of chronic lymphocytic leukemia (CLL) that drive leukemia cell proliferation and sustain their survival. TG02 is a small molecule multi-kinase inhibitor that simultaneously targets both of these facets of CLL pathogenesis. First, its inhibition of cyclin-dependent kinase 9 blocked the activation of RNA polymerase II and transcription. This led to the depletion of Mcl-1 and rapid induction of apoptosis in the primary CLL cells. This mechanism of apoptosis was independent of CLL prognostic factors or prior treatment history, but dependent on the expression of BAX and BAK. Second, TG02, which inhibits the members of the BCR signaling pathway such as Lck and Fyn, blocked BCR-crosslinking-induced activation of NF-κB and Akt, indicating abrogation of BCR signaling. Finally, the combination of TG02 and ibrutinib demonstrated moderate synergy, suggesting a future combination of TG02 with ibrutinib, or use in patients that are refractory to the BCR antagonists. Thus, the dual inhibitory activity on both the CLL survival pathway and BCR signaling identifies TG02 as a unique compound for clinical development in CLL and possibly other B cell malignancies.
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Affiliation(s)
- Rong Chen
- Department of Experimental Therapeutics, The University of Texas M.D. Anderson Cancer Center, Houston, TX, USA.
| | - Jennifer Tsai
- Department of Experimental Therapeutics, The University of Texas M.D. Anderson Cancer Center, Houston, TX, USA.,Department of Emergency Medicine, Yale School of Medicine, New Haven, CT, USA
| | - Philip A Thompson
- Department of Leukemia, The University of Texas M.D. Anderson Cancer Center, Houston, TX, USA
| | - Yuling Chen
- Department of Experimental Therapeutics, The University of Texas M.D. Anderson Cancer Center, Houston, TX, USA
| | - Ping Xiong
- Department of Experimental Therapeutics, The University of Texas M.D. Anderson Cancer Center, Houston, TX, USA
| | - Chaomei Liu
- Department of Experimental Therapeutics, The University of Texas M.D. Anderson Cancer Center, Houston, TX, USA
| | - Francis Burrows
- Tragara Pharmaceuticals, Carlsbad, CA, USA.,Kura Oncology, Inc., San Diego, CA, USA
| | - Mariela Sivina
- Department of Leukemia, The University of Texas M.D. Anderson Cancer Center, Houston, TX, USA
| | - Jan A Burger
- Department of Leukemia, The University of Texas M.D. Anderson Cancer Center, Houston, TX, USA
| | - Michael J Keating
- Department of Leukemia, The University of Texas M.D. Anderson Cancer Center, Houston, TX, USA
| | - William G Wierda
- Department of Leukemia, The University of Texas M.D. Anderson Cancer Center, Houston, TX, USA
| | - William Plunkett
- Department of Experimental Therapeutics, The University of Texas M.D. Anderson Cancer Center, Houston, TX, USA.,Department of Leukemia, The University of Texas M.D. Anderson Cancer Center, Houston, TX, USA
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Borgenvik A, Čančer M, Hutter S, Swartling FJ. Targeting MYCN in Molecularly Defined Malignant Brain Tumors. Front Oncol 2021; 10:626751. [PMID: 33585252 PMCID: PMC7877538 DOI: 10.3389/fonc.2020.626751] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/06/2020] [Accepted: 12/09/2020] [Indexed: 12/21/2022] Open
Abstract
Misregulation of MYC genes, causing MYC overexpression or protein stabilization, is frequently found in malignant brain tumors highlighting their important roles as oncogenes. Brain tumors in children are the most lethal of all pediatric malignancies and the most common malignant primary adult brain tumor, glioblastoma, is still practically incurable. MYCN is one of three MYC family members and is crucial for normal brain development. It is associated with poor prognosis in many malignant pediatric brain tumor types and is focally amplified in specific adult brain tumors. Targeting MYCN has proved to be challenging due to its undruggable nature as a transcription factor and for its importance in regulating developmental programs also in healthy cells. In this review, we will discuss efforts made to circumvent the difficulty of targeting MYCN specifically by using direct or indirect measures to treat MYCN-driven brain tumors. We will further consider the mechanism of action of these measures and suggest which molecularly defined brain tumor patients that might benefit from MYCN-directed precision therapies.
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Affiliation(s)
- Anna Borgenvik
- Department of Immunology, Genetics and Pathology, Science for Life Laboratory, Rudbeck Laboratory, Uppsala University, Uppsala, Sweden
| | - Matko Čančer
- Department of Oncology-Pathology, Karolinska Institutet, Stockholm, Sweden
| | - Sonja Hutter
- Department of Immunology, Genetics and Pathology, Science for Life Laboratory, Rudbeck Laboratory, Uppsala University, Uppsala, Sweden
| | - Fredrik J Swartling
- Department of Immunology, Genetics and Pathology, Science for Life Laboratory, Rudbeck Laboratory, Uppsala University, Uppsala, Sweden
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Liang H, Du J, Elhassan RM, Hou X, Fang H. Recent progress in development of cyclin-dependent kinase 7 inhibitors for cancer therapy. Expert Opin Investig Drugs 2021; 30:61-76. [PMID: 33183110 DOI: 10.1080/13543784.2021.1850693] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/18/2022]
Abstract
Introduction: Cyclin-dependent kinase 7 (CDK7) is a part of the CDK-activating kinase family (CAK) which has a key role in the cell cycle and transcriptional regulation. Several lines of evidence suggest that CDK7 is a promising therapeutic target for cancer. CDK7 selective inhibitors such as SY-5609 and CT7001 are in clinical development. Areas covered: We explore the biology of CDK7 and its role in cancer and follow this with an evaluation of the preclinical and clinical progress of CDK7 inhibitors, and their potential in the clinic. We searched PubMed and ClinicalTrials to identify relevant data from the database inception to 14 October 2020. Expert opinion: CDK7 inhibitors are next generation therapeutics for cancer. However, there are still challenges which include selectively, side effects, and drug resistance. Nevertheless, with ongoing clinical development of these inhibitors and greater analysis of their target, CDK7 inhibitors will become a promising approach for treatment of cancer in the near future.
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Affiliation(s)
- Hanzhi Liang
- Department of Medicinal Chemistry and Key Laboratory of Chemical Biology of Natural Products (MOE), School of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Cheeloo College of Medicine, Shandong University , Jinan, Shandong, China
| | - Jintong Du
- Shandong Cancer Hospital and Institute, Shandong First Medical University , Jinan, Shandong, China
| | - Reham M Elhassan
- Department of Medicinal Chemistry and Key Laboratory of Chemical Biology of Natural Products (MOE), School of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Cheeloo College of Medicine, Shandong University , Jinan, Shandong, China
| | - Xuben Hou
- Department of Medicinal Chemistry and Key Laboratory of Chemical Biology of Natural Products (MOE), School of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Cheeloo College of Medicine, Shandong University , Jinan, Shandong, China
| | - Hao Fang
- Department of Medicinal Chemistry and Key Laboratory of Chemical Biology of Natural Products (MOE), School of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Cheeloo College of Medicine, Shandong University , Jinan, Shandong, China
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Discovery of 12O-A Novel Oral Multi-Kinase Inhibitor for the Treatment of Solid Tumor. Molecules 2020; 25:molecules25215199. [PMID: 33182255 PMCID: PMC7664879 DOI: 10.3390/molecules25215199] [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: 09/10/2020] [Revised: 11/01/2020] [Accepted: 11/03/2020] [Indexed: 02/05/2023] Open
Abstract
A novel series of pyrimidine-benzotriazole derivatives have been synthesized and evaluated for their anticancer activity against human solid tumor cell lines. The most promising molecule 12O was identified for its excellent antiproliferative activities, especially against the SiHa cell line with IC50 value as 0.009 μM. Kinase inhibition assay assessed 12O was a potential multi-kinase inhibitor, which possessed potent inhibitory activities against cyclin-dependent kinases (CDKs) and fms-like tyrosine kinase (FLT) with IC50 values in the nanomolar range. Molecular docking studies illustrated that the introduction of triazole moiety in 12O was critical for CDKs inhibition. In addition, 12O inhibited cancer cell proliferation, colony-formation, and cell cycle progression and provoked apoptotic death in vitro. In an SiHa xenograft mouse model, a once-daily dose of compound 12O at 20 mg/kg significantly suppressed the tumor growth without obvious toxicity. Taken together, 12O provided valuable guide for further structural optimization for CDKs and FLT inhibitors.
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Richters A, Doyle SK, Freeman DB, Lee C, Leifer BS, Jagannathan S, Kabinger F, Koren JV, Struntz NB, Urgiles J, Stagg RA, Curtin BH, Chatterjee D, Mathea S, Mikochik PJ, Hopkins TD, Gao H, Branch JR, Xin H, Westover L, Bignan GC, Rupnow BA, Karlin KL, Olson CM, Westbrook TF, Vacca J, Wilfong CM, Trotter BW, Saffran DC, Bischofberger N, Knapp S, Russo JW, Hickson I, Bischoff JR, Gottardis MM, Balk SP, Lin CY, Pop MS, Koehler AN. Modulating Androgen Receptor-Driven Transcription in Prostate Cancer with Selective CDK9 Inhibitors. Cell Chem Biol 2020; 28:134-147.e14. [PMID: 33086052 DOI: 10.1016/j.chembiol.2020.10.001] [Citation(s) in RCA: 39] [Impact Index Per Article: 9.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/31/2020] [Revised: 08/28/2020] [Accepted: 09/30/2020] [Indexed: 12/13/2022]
Abstract
Castration-resistant prostate cancers (CRPCs) lose sensitivity to androgen-deprivation therapies but frequently remain dependent on oncogenic transcription driven by the androgen receptor (AR) and its splice variants. To discover modulators of AR-variant activity, we used a lysate-based small-molecule microarray assay and identified KI-ARv-03 as an AR-variant complex binder that reduces AR-driven transcription and proliferation in prostate cancer cells. We deduced KI-ARv-03 to be a potent, selective inhibitor of CDK9, an important cofactor for AR, MYC, and other oncogenic transcription factors. Further optimization resulted in KB-0742, an orally bioavailable, selective CDK9 inhibitor with potent anti-tumor activity in CRPC models. In 22Rv1 cells, KB-0742 rapidly downregulates nascent transcription, preferentially depleting short half-life transcripts and AR-driven oncogenic programs. In vivo, oral administration of KB-0742 significantly reduced tumor growth in CRPC, supporting CDK9 inhibition as a promising therapeutic strategy to target AR dependence in CRPC.
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Affiliation(s)
- André Richters
- David H. Koch Institute for Integrative Cancer Research, Massachusetts Institute of Technology, Cambridge, MA 02142, USA; MIT Center for Precision Cancer Medicine, Massachusetts Institute of Technology, Cambridge, MA 02142, USA; Broad Institute of MIT and Harvard, Cambridge, MA 02142, USA
| | - Shelby K Doyle
- David H. Koch Institute for Integrative Cancer Research, Massachusetts Institute of Technology, Cambridge, MA 02142, USA; MIT Center for Precision Cancer Medicine, Massachusetts Institute of Technology, Cambridge, MA 02142, USA; Broad Institute of MIT and Harvard, Cambridge, MA 02142, USA; Department of Biological Engineering, Massachusetts Institute of Technology, Cambridge, MA 02139, USA
| | | | | | - Becky S Leifer
- David H. Koch Institute for Integrative Cancer Research, Massachusetts Institute of Technology, Cambridge, MA 02142, USA; MIT Center for Precision Cancer Medicine, Massachusetts Institute of Technology, Cambridge, MA 02142, USA; Broad Institute of MIT and Harvard, Cambridge, MA 02142, USA
| | - Sajjeev Jagannathan
- Therapeutic Innovation Center, Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, Baylor College of Medicine, Houston, TX 77030, USA
| | - Florian Kabinger
- David H. Koch Institute for Integrative Cancer Research, Massachusetts Institute of Technology, Cambridge, MA 02142, USA; MIT Center for Precision Cancer Medicine, Massachusetts Institute of Technology, Cambridge, MA 02142, USA; Broad Institute of MIT and Harvard, Cambridge, MA 02142, USA
| | - Jošt Vrabič Koren
- Therapeutic Innovation Center, Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, Baylor College of Medicine, Houston, TX 77030, USA
| | - Nicholas B Struntz
- David H. Koch Institute for Integrative Cancer Research, Massachusetts Institute of Technology, Cambridge, MA 02142, USA; MIT Center for Precision Cancer Medicine, Massachusetts Institute of Technology, Cambridge, MA 02142, USA; Broad Institute of MIT and Harvard, Cambridge, MA 02142, USA
| | - Julie Urgiles
- David H. Koch Institute for Integrative Cancer Research, Massachusetts Institute of Technology, Cambridge, MA 02142, USA; Harvard-MIT Health Sciences and Technology, Boston, MA 02115, USA
| | - Ryan A Stagg
- David H. Koch Institute for Integrative Cancer Research, Massachusetts Institute of Technology, Cambridge, MA 02142, USA; Department of Biology, Boston University, Boston, MA 02215, USA
| | - Brice H Curtin
- David H. Koch Institute for Integrative Cancer Research, Massachusetts Institute of Technology, Cambridge, MA 02142, USA; MIT Center for Precision Cancer Medicine, Massachusetts Institute of Technology, Cambridge, MA 02142, USA; Broad Institute of MIT and Harvard, Cambridge, MA 02142, USA
| | - Deep Chatterjee
- Goethe-Universität Frankfurt, 60438 Frankfurt am Main, Germany
| | | | | | | | - Hua Gao
- Kronos Bio, Inc., Cambridge, MA 02139, USA
| | | | - Hong Xin
- Janssen Research & Development, LLC, Spring House, PA, USA
| | - Lori Westover
- Janssen Research & Development, LLC, Spring House, PA, USA
| | | | - Brent A Rupnow
- Janssen Research & Development, LLC, Spring House, PA, USA
| | - Kristen L Karlin
- Therapeutic Innovation Center, Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, Baylor College of Medicine, Houston, TX 77030, USA
| | - Calla M Olson
- Therapeutic Innovation Center, Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, Baylor College of Medicine, Houston, TX 77030, USA
| | - Thomas F Westbrook
- Therapeutic Innovation Center, Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, Baylor College of Medicine, Houston, TX 77030, USA
| | | | | | | | | | | | - Stefan Knapp
- Goethe-Universität Frankfurt, 60438 Frankfurt am Main, Germany
| | - Joshua W Russo
- Beth Israel Deaconess Medical Center, Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA 02215, USA
| | - Ian Hickson
- Janssen Research & Development, LLC, Spring House, PA, USA; Cancer Research UK Newcastle Drug Discovery Unit, Translational and Clinical Research Institute, Newcastle University, Newcastle upon Tyne NE2 4HH, UK
| | | | | | - Steven P Balk
- Beth Israel Deaconess Medical Center, Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA 02215, USA
| | - Charles Y Lin
- Kronos Bio, Inc., Cambridge, MA 02139, USA; Therapeutic Innovation Center, Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, Baylor College of Medicine, Houston, TX 77030, USA; Department of Molecular and Human Genetics, Baylor College of Medicine, Houston, TX, USA
| | | | - Angela N Koehler
- David H. Koch Institute for Integrative Cancer Research, Massachusetts Institute of Technology, Cambridge, MA 02142, USA; MIT Center for Precision Cancer Medicine, Massachusetts Institute of Technology, Cambridge, MA 02142, USA; Broad Institute of MIT and Harvard, Cambridge, MA 02142, USA; Department of Biological Engineering, Massachusetts Institute of Technology, Cambridge, MA 02139, USA.
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Therapeutic Targeting of the General RNA Polymerase II Transcription Machinery. Int J Mol Sci 2020; 21:ijms21093354. [PMID: 32397434 PMCID: PMC7246882 DOI: 10.3390/ijms21093354] [Citation(s) in RCA: 26] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/23/2020] [Revised: 05/06/2020] [Accepted: 05/07/2020] [Indexed: 12/27/2022] Open
Abstract
Inhibitors targeting the general RNA polymerase II (RNAPII) transcription machinery are candidate therapeutics in cancer and other complex diseases. Here, we review the molecular targets and mechanisms of action of these compounds, framing them within the steps of RNAPII transcription. We discuss the effects of transcription inhibitors in vitro and in cellular models (with an emphasis on cancer), as well as their efficacy in preclinical and clinical studies. We also discuss the rationale for inhibiting broadly acting transcriptional regulators or RNAPII itself in complex diseases.
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Diab S, Yu M, Wang S. CDK7 Inhibitors in Cancer Therapy: The Sweet Smell of Success? J Med Chem 2020; 63:7458-7474. [DOI: 10.1021/acs.jmedchem.9b01985] [Citation(s) in RCA: 29] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/11/2022]
Affiliation(s)
- Sarah Diab
- School of Pharmacy, Lebanese American University, P.O. Box 36, Byblos, Lebanon
| | - Mingfeng Yu
- Drug Discovery and Development, University of South Australia Cancer Research Institute, Adelaide, SA 5000, Australia
| | - Shudong Wang
- Drug Discovery and Development, University of South Australia Cancer Research Institute, Adelaide, SA 5000, Australia
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Role of Non-Coding RNAs in the Development of Targeted Therapy and Immunotherapy Approaches for Chronic Lymphocytic Leukemia. J Clin Med 2020; 9:jcm9020593. [PMID: 32098192 PMCID: PMC7074107 DOI: 10.3390/jcm9020593] [Citation(s) in RCA: 12] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/31/2019] [Revised: 02/14/2020] [Accepted: 02/16/2020] [Indexed: 12/15/2022] Open
Abstract
In the past decade, novel targeted therapy approaches, such as BTK inhibitors and Bcl2 blockers, and innovative treatments that regulate the immune response against cancer cells, such as monoclonal antibodies, CAR-T cell therapy, and immunomodulatory molecules, have been established to provide support for the treatment of patients. However, drug resistance development and relapse are still major challenges in CLL treatment. Several studies revealed that non-coding RNAs have a main role in the development and progression of CLL. Specifically, microRNAs (miRs) and tRNA-derived small-RNAs (tsRNAs) were shown to be outstanding biomarkers that can be used to diagnose and monitor the disease and to possibly anticipate drug resistance and relapse, thus supporting physicians in the selection of treatment regimens tailored to the patient needs. In this review, we will summarize the most recent discoveries in the field of targeted therapy and immunotherapy for CLL and discuss the role of ncRNAs in the development of novel drugs and combination regimens for CLL patients.
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P-TEFb as A Promising Therapeutic Target. Molecules 2020; 25:molecules25040838. [PMID: 32075058 PMCID: PMC7070488 DOI: 10.3390/molecules25040838] [Citation(s) in RCA: 22] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/05/2020] [Revised: 02/06/2020] [Accepted: 02/07/2020] [Indexed: 01/19/2023] Open
Abstract
The positive transcription elongation factor b (P-TEFb) was first identified as a general factor that stimulates transcription elongation by RNA polymerase II (RNAPII), but soon afterwards it turned out to be an essential cellular co-factor of human immunodeficiency virus (HIV) transcription mediated by viral Tat proteins. Studies on the mechanisms of Tat-dependent HIV transcription have led to radical advances in our knowledge regarding the mechanism of eukaryotic transcription, including the discoveries that P-TEFb-mediated elongation control of cellular transcription is a main regulatory step of gene expression in eukaryotes, and deregulation of P-TEFb activity plays critical roles in many human diseases and conditions in addition to HIV/AIDS. P-TEFb is now recognized as an attractive and promising therapeutic target for inflammation/autoimmune diseases, cardiac hypertrophy, cancer, infectious diseases, etc. In this review article, I will summarize our knowledge about basic P-TEFb functions, the regulatory mechanism of P-TEFb-dependent transcription, P-TEFb’s involvement in biological processes and diseases, and current approaches to manipulating P-TEFb functions for the treatment of these diseases.
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Beyond Kinase Activity: ERK5 Nucleo-Cytoplasmic Shuttling as a Novel Target for Anticancer Therapy. Int J Mol Sci 2020; 21:ijms21030938. [PMID: 32023850 PMCID: PMC7038028 DOI: 10.3390/ijms21030938] [Citation(s) in RCA: 18] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/27/2019] [Revised: 01/28/2020] [Accepted: 01/29/2020] [Indexed: 01/18/2023] Open
Abstract
The importance of mitogen-activated protein kinases (MAPK) in human pathology is underlined by the relevance of abnormalities of MAPK-related signaling pathways to a number of different diseases, including inflammatory disorders and cancer. One of the key events in MAPK signaling, especially with respect to pro-proliferative effects that are crucial for the onset and progression of cancer, is MAPK nuclear translocation and its role in the regulation of gene expression. The extracellular signal-regulated kinase 5 (ERK5) is the most recently discovered classical MAPK and it is emerging as a possible target for cancer treatment. The bigger size of ERK5 when compared to other MAPK enables multiple levels of regulation of its expression and activity. In particular, the phosphorylation of kinase domain and C-terminus, as well as post-translational modifications and chaperone binding, are involved in ERK5 regulation. Likewise, different mechanisms control ERK5 nucleo-cytoplasmic shuttling, underscoring the key role of ERK5 in the nuclear compartment. In this review, we will focus on the mechanisms involved in ERK5 trafficking between cytoplasm and nucleus, and discuss how these processes might be exploited to design new strategies for cancer treatment.
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Tibes R, Bogenberger JM. Transcriptional Silencing of MCL-1 Through Cyclin-Dependent Kinase Inhibition in Acute Myeloid Leukemia. Front Oncol 2019; 9:1205. [PMID: 31921615 PMCID: PMC6920180 DOI: 10.3389/fonc.2019.01205] [Citation(s) in RCA: 16] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/03/2019] [Accepted: 10/23/2019] [Indexed: 12/13/2022] Open
Abstract
Acute myeloid leukemia (AML) is the most common adult acute leukemia. Survival remains poor, despite decades of scientific advances. Cytotoxic induction chemotherapy regimens are standard-of-care for most patients. Many investigations have highlighted the genomic heterogeneity of AML, and several new targeted therapeutic options have recently been approved. Additional novel therapies are showing promising clinical results and may rapidly transform the therapeutic landscape of AML. Despite the emerging clinical success of B-cell lymphoma (BCL)-2 targeting in AML and a large body of preclinical data supporting myeloid leukemia cell (MCL)-1 as an attractive therapeutic target for AML, MCL-1 targeting remains relatively unexplored, although novel MCL-1 inhibitors are under clinical investigation. Inhibitors of cyclin-dependent kinases (CDKs) involved in the regulation of transcription, CDK9 in particular, are being investigated in AML as a strategy to target MCL-1 indirectly. In this article, we review the basis for CDK inhibition in oncology with a focus on relevant preclinical mechanism-of-action studies of CDK9 inhibitors in the context of their therapeutic potential specifically in AML.
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Affiliation(s)
- Raoul Tibes
- NYU School of Medicine & Perlmutter Cancer Center, NYU Langone Health, New York, NY, United States
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