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Zhang R, Zheng Y, Xiang F, Zhou J. Inducing or enhancing protein-protein interaction to develop drugs: Molecular glues with various biological activity. Eur J Med Chem 2024; 277:116756. [PMID: 39191033 DOI: 10.1016/j.ejmech.2024.116756] [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: 05/24/2024] [Revised: 07/15/2024] [Accepted: 08/01/2024] [Indexed: 08/29/2024]
Abstract
Over the past two decades, molecular glues (MGs) have gradually attracted the attention of the pharmaceutical community with the advent of MG degraders such as IMiDs and indisulam. Such molecules degrade the target protein by promoting the interaction between the target protein and E3 ligase. In addition, as a chemical inducer, MGs promote the dimerization of homologous proteins and heterologous proteins to form ternary complexes, which have great prospects in regulating biological activities. This review focuses on the application of MGs in the field of drug development including protein-protein interaction (PPI) stability and protein degradation. We thoroughly analyze the structure of various MGs and the interactions between MGs and various biologically active molecules, thus providing new perspectives for the development of PPI stabilizers and new degraders.
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Affiliation(s)
- Rongyu Zhang
- Key Laboratory of the Ministry of Education for Advanced Catalysis Materials, Department of Chemistry, Zhejiang Normal University, 688 Yingbin Road, Jinhua, 321004, PR China
| | - Yirong Zheng
- Key Laboratory of the Ministry of Education for Advanced Catalysis Materials, Department of Chemistry, Zhejiang Normal University, 688 Yingbin Road, Jinhua, 321004, PR China
| | - Fengjiao Xiang
- Key Laboratory of the Ministry of Education for Advanced Catalysis Materials, Department of Chemistry, Zhejiang Normal University, 688 Yingbin Road, Jinhua, 321004, PR China
| | - Jinming Zhou
- Key Laboratory of the Ministry of Education for Advanced Catalysis Materials, Department of Chemistry, Zhejiang Normal University, 688 Yingbin Road, Jinhua, 321004, PR China.
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2
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Gao Y, Zheng H. Role of mitochondria and potential of mitochondria-targeted therapy in BRAF mutant cancer: A review. Crit Rev Oncol Hematol 2024; 203:104484. [PMID: 39197669 DOI: 10.1016/j.critrevonc.2024.104484] [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: 05/23/2024] [Revised: 07/28/2024] [Accepted: 08/21/2024] [Indexed: 09/01/2024] Open
Abstract
The classical mitogen-activated protein kinase (MAPK) signaling pathway, the Ras/Raf/MEK (mitogen-activated protein kinase/ERK kinase)/ERK protein kinase cascade, is a conserved cascade that regulates cell growth, differentiation, and proliferation. The significance of BRAF in cancer was established with the discovery of cancer-activating mutations in BRAF in several human tumors in 2002. Currently, BRAF is recognized as a driver mutation that affects cancer phenotypes in different ways, making it an important therapeutic target for cancer. BRAF-selective inhibitors have shown promise in clinical trials involving patients with metastatic melanoma. However, resistance mechanisms to BRAF inhibitors therapy have resulted in short-lived therapeutic responses. Further in-depth research is imperative to explore resistance mechanisms that oppose the effectiveness of BRAF inhibitors. Metabolic reprogramming has emerging role in BRAF-mutant cancers. In particular, mitochondrial metabolism and its closely related signaling pathways mediated by mitochondria have become recognized as potential new targets for treating BRAF-mutant cancers. This review, examines the progress in understanding BRAF mutations in cancer, the clinicopathological correlation of BRAF inhibitors, and recent advances in mitochondrial metabolism, mitochondrial dynamics and mitochondrial mediated death in BRAF-mutant cancer. This review will inform future cancer research and lay the foundation for novel treatment combinations of BRAF-mutant cancers.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yanyan Gao
- Department of Anesthesiology, Shanxi Bethune Hospital, Shanxi Academy of Medical Sciences, Tongji Shanxi Hospital, Third Hospital of Shanxi Medical University, Taiyuan 030032, China; Tongji Hospital, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan 430030, China.
| | - Hua Zheng
- Department of Anesthesiology, Shanxi Bethune Hospital, Shanxi Academy of Medical Sciences, Tongji Shanxi Hospital, Third Hospital of Shanxi Medical University, Taiyuan 030032, China; Tongji Hospital, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan 430030, China
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3
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Planchard D, Wolf J, Solomon B, Sebastian M, Wermke M, Heist RS, Sun JM, Min Kim T, Reguart N, Sanmamed MF, Felip E, Garrido P, Santoro A, Bootle D, Couillebault XM, Gaur A, Mueller C, Poggio T, Yang J, Moschetta M, Dooms C. A phase Ib study of the combination of naporafenib with rineterkib or trametinib in patients with advanced and metastatic KRAS- or BRAF-mutant non-small cell lung cancer. Lung Cancer 2024; 197:107964. [PMID: 39383771 DOI: 10.1016/j.lungcan.2024.107964] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/04/2024] [Revised: 09/06/2024] [Accepted: 09/22/2024] [Indexed: 10/11/2024]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Genetic alterations activating the MAPK pathway are common in non-small cell lung cancer (NSCLC). Patients with NSCLC may benefit from treatment with the pan-RAF inhibitor naporafenib (LXH254) plus the ERK1/2 inhibitor rineterkib (LTT462) or MEK1/2 inhibitor trametinib. METHODS This first-in-human phase 1b dose-escalation/dose-expansion study investigated the combinations of naporafenib (50-350 mg once daily [QD] or 300-600 mg twice daily [BID]) with rineterkib (100-300 mg QD) in patients with KRAS-/BRAF-mutant NSCLC and naporafenib (200 mg BID or 400 mg BID) with trametinib (0.5 mg QD, 1 mg QD or 1 mg QD 2 weeks on/2 weeks off) in patients with KRAS-/BRAF-mutant NSCLC and NRAS-mutant melanoma. The primary objectives were to identify the recommended dose for expansion (RDE) and evaluate tolerability and safety. Secondary objectives included antitumor activity and pharmacodynamics. RESULTS Overall, 216 patients were treated with naporafenib plus rineterkib (NSCLC: n = 101) or naporafenib plus trametinib (NSCLC: n = 79; melanoma: n = 36). In total, 10 of 62 (16%) patients experienced at least one dose-limiting toxicity. The RDEs were established as naporafenib 400 mg BID plus rineterkib 200 mg QD, naporafenib 200 mg BID plus trametinib 1 mg QD and naporafenib 400 mg BID plus trametinib 0.5 mg QD. The most frequent grade ≥ 3 treatment-related adverse event was increased lipase (8/101 [7.9%] patients) for naporafenib plus rineterkib and rash (22/115 [19.1%] patients) for naporafenib plus trametinib. Among patients with NSCLC, partial response was observed in three patients (one with KRAS-mutant, two with BRAFnon-V600-mutant NSCLC) treated with naporafenib plus rineterkib and two patients (both with KRAS-mutant NSCLC) treated with naporafenib plus trametinib. On-treatment median reductions in DUSP6 mRNA levels from baseline were 45.5% and 76.1% with naporafenib plus rineterkib or trametinib, respectively. CONCLUSIONS Both naporafenib combinations had acceptable safety profiles. Antitumor activity was limited in patients with NSCLC, despite the observed on-target pharmacodynamic effect. CLINICALTRIALS gov identifier: NCT02974725.
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Affiliation(s)
- David Planchard
- Department of Medical Oncology, Thoracic Group and International Center for Thoracic Cancers (CICT), Villejuif, France; Faculty of Medicine, Paris-Saclay University, Paris, France
| | - Jürgen Wolf
- Center for Integrated Oncology, University Hospital Köln, Köln, Germany
| | | | - Martin Sebastian
- Goethe University Frankfurt, University Hospital, Frankfurt, Germany
| | - Martin Wermke
- TU Dresden, NCT/UCC Early Clinical Trial Unit, Dresden, Germany
| | | | | | - Tae Min Kim
- Seoul National University Hospital, Seoul, South Korea
| | | | | | - Enriqueta Felip
- Vall d'Hebron University Hospital and Vall d'Hebron Institute of Oncology (VHIO), Barcelona, Spain
| | | | - Armando Santoro
- Department of Biomedical Sciences, Humanitas University, Pieve Emanuele, Milan, Italy; IRCCS Humanitas Research Hospital, Humanitas Cancer Center, Rozzano, Milan, Italy
| | | | | | - Anil Gaur
- Novartis Healthcare Pvt. Ltd, Hyderabad, India
| | | | | | - Jie Yang
- Novartis Biomedical Research, Cambridge, MA, USA
| | | | - Christophe Dooms
- Department of Respiratory Diseases, University Hospitals KU Leuven, Leuven, Belgium; Department of Chronic Diseases and Metabolism, Respiratory Oncology Unit, Laboratory of Respiratory Diseases and Thoracic Surgery, KU Leuven, Leuven, Belgium
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4
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Ghannam IAY, El Kerdawy AM, Mounier MM, Abo-Elfadl MT, Abdel-Mohsen HT. Discovery of novel diaryl urea-oxindole hybrids as BRAF kinase inhibitors targeting BRAF and KRAS mutant cancers. Bioorg Chem 2024; 153:107848. [PMID: 39368145 DOI: 10.1016/j.bioorg.2024.107848] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/05/2024] [Revised: 09/12/2024] [Accepted: 09/26/2024] [Indexed: 10/07/2024]
Abstract
In the current study, a novel series of diaryl urea incorporating oxindole moiety was rationally designed as type II BRAF inhibitors targeting BRAF and KRAS mutant cancers. Molecular hybridization between the diaryl urea scaffold which binds to the inactive conformation of protein kinases on one side and the oxindole core which exhibit adenine mimic properties to be settled in the hinge region on the other side was performed. Studying the antiproliferative activity of the synthesized candidates 9a-t on NCI cancer cell lines showed that they exhibit potent and broad spectrum of antiproliferative activity on the tested cancer cell lines with compounds 9c, 9p, 9q, 9s, and 9t demonstrating potent GI50 reaching 0.01 µM. Noteworthy, compound 9s demonstrated a potent GI50 on cell lines expressing mutant KRAS and those express BRAFV600E with GI50 ranges of 1.79 and 7.94 µM and 1.68 to 2.0 µM, respectively. Further analysis on A375 and Mel501 cell lines expressing BRAFV600E revealed that compound 9s has a potent growth inhibitory activity with IC50 of 0.7 and 1.5 µM, respectively, in reference to sorafenib (IC50 = 8.7 and 0.3 µM, respectively). Additionally, nearly all the target candidates did not show any cytotoxic effect on the normal fibroblast cell line BJ-1 with compound 9s showing IC50 of 20.2 µM in reference to sorafenib (IC50 = 6.1 µM). Further cellular assays on A375 cell line, revealed the ability of compound 9s to halt the cell cycle progression at the G2 phase besides its ability to induce apoptosis. In parallel, all the synthesized candidates 9a-t were biochemically evaluated for their inhibitory activity on BRAFWT and compounds 9b, 9c, and 9n revealed a sub-micromolar IC50 of 0.11, 0.84 and 0.80 µM, respectively. Further investigation of selected compounds on BRAFV600E showed that compounds 9c, 9n, 9s, and 9t exhibit a sub-micromolar IC50 range of 0.17 to 0.89 µM. Noteworthy, the examined candidates demonstrated a higher selectively towards BRAFV600E over BRAFWT highlighting their promising optimization for treating BRAFV600E expressing cancers. Molecular docking and molecular dynamics simulations in the inactive DFG-out kinase domain of BRAFWT/V600E protein kinases confirmed the planned design strategy.
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Affiliation(s)
- Iman A Y Ghannam
- Chemistry of Natural and Microbial Products Department, Pharmaceutical and Drug Industries Research Institute, National Research Centre, El-Buhouth St., Dokki P.O. Box 12622, Cairo, Egypt.
| | - Ahmed M El Kerdawy
- School of Pharmacy, College of Health and Science, University of Lincoln, Joseph Banks Laboratories, Green Lane, Lincoln, United Kingdom; Department of Pharmaceutical Chemistry, Faculty of Pharmacy, Cairo University, Kasr El-Aini Street, Cairo, P.O. Box 11562, Egypt
| | - Marwa M Mounier
- Department of Pharmacognosy, Pharmaceutical and Drug Industries Research Institute, National Research Centre, Dokki, Cairo 12622, Egypt
| | - Mahmoud T Abo-Elfadl
- Cancer Biology and Genetics Laboratory, Centre of Excellence for Advanced Sciences, National Research Centre, Dokki, Cairo 12622, Egypt; Biochemistry Department, Biotechnology Research Institute, National Research Centre, Dokki, Cairo, Egypt
| | - Heba T Abdel-Mohsen
- Chemistry of Natural and Microbial Products Department, Pharmaceutical and Drug Industries Research Institute, National Research Centre, El-Buhouth St., Dokki P.O. Box 12622, Cairo, Egypt.
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5
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Ghadrdoost Nakhchi B, Kosuru R, Chrzanowska M. Towards Targeting Endothelial Rap1B to Overcome Vascular Immunosuppression in Cancer. Int J Mol Sci 2024; 25:9853. [PMID: 39337337 PMCID: PMC11432579 DOI: 10.3390/ijms25189853] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/31/2024] [Revised: 08/23/2024] [Accepted: 09/05/2024] [Indexed: 09/30/2024] Open
Abstract
The vascular endothelium, a specialized monolayer of endothelial cells (ECs), is crucial for maintaining vascular homeostasis by controlling the passage of substances and cells. In the tumor microenvironment, Vascular Endothelial Growth Factor A (VEGF-A) drives tumor angiogenesis, leading to endothelial anergy and vascular immunosuppression-a state where ECs resist cytotoxic CD8+ T cell infiltration, hindering immune surveillance. Immunotherapies have shown clinical promise. However, their effectiveness is significantly reduced by tumor EC anergy. Anti-angiogenic treatments aim to normalize tumor vessels and improve immune cell infiltration. Despite their potential, these therapies often cause significant systemic toxicities, necessitating new treatments. The small GTPase Rap1B emerges as a critical regulator of Vascular Endothelial Growth Factor Receptor 2 (VEGFR2) signaling in ECs. Our studies using EC-specific Rap1B knockout mice show that the absence of Rap1B impairs tumor growth, alters vessel morphology, and increases CD8+ T cell infiltration and activation. This indicates that Rap1B mediates VEGF-A's immunosuppressive effects, making it a promising target for overcoming vascular immunosuppression in cancer. Rap1B shares structural and functional similarities with RAS oncogenes. We propose that targeting Rap1B could enhance therapies' efficacy while minimizing adverse effects by reversing endothelial anergy. We briefly discuss strategies successfully developed for targeting RAS as a model for developing anti-Rap1 therapies.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Ramoji Kosuru
- Versiti Blood Research Institute, Milwaukee, WI 53226, USA; (B.G.N.)
| | - Magdalena Chrzanowska
- Versiti Blood Research Institute, Milwaukee, WI 53226, USA; (B.G.N.)
- Department of Pharmacology and Toxicology, Medical College of Wisconsin, Milwaukee, WI 53226, USA
- Cardiovascular Center, Medical College of Wisconsin, Milwaukee, WI 53226, USA
- Cancer Center, Medical College of Wisconsin, Milwaukee, WI 53226, USA
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6
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Lin H, Cao XX. Current State of Targeted Therapy in Adult Langerhans Cell Histiocytosis and Erdheim-Chester Disease. Target Oncol 2024; 19:691-703. [PMID: 38990463 DOI: 10.1007/s11523-024-01080-x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 06/25/2024] [Indexed: 07/12/2024]
Abstract
The mitogen-activated protein kinase (MAPK) pathway is a key driver in many histiocytic disorders, including Langerhans cell histiocytosis (LCH) and Erdheim-Chester disease (ECD). This has led to successful and promising treatment with targeted therapies, including BRAF inhibitors and MEK inhibitors. Additional novel inhibitors have also demonstrated encouraging results. Nevertheless, there are several problems concerning targeted therapy that need to be addressed. These include, among others, incomplete responsiveness and the emergence of resistance to BRAF inhibition as observed in other BRAF-mutant malignancies. Drug resistance and relapse after treatment interruption remain problems with current targeted therapies. Targeted therapy does not seem to eradicate the mutated clone, leading to inevitable relapes, which is a huge challenge for the future. More fundamental research and clinical trials are needed to address these issues and to develop improved targeted therapies that can overcome resistance and achieve long-lasting remissions.
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Affiliation(s)
- He Lin
- Department of Hematology, Peking Union Medical College Hospital, Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences and Peking Union Medical College, Beijing, China
- State Key Laboratory of Complex Severe and Rare Diseases, Peking Union Medical College Hospital, Beijing, China
| | - Xin-Xin Cao
- Department of Hematology, Peking Union Medical College Hospital, Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences and Peking Union Medical College, Beijing, China.
- State Key Laboratory of Complex Severe and Rare Diseases, Peking Union Medical College Hospital, Beijing, China.
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7
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Ngo VA. Insight into molecular basis and dynamics of full-length CRaf kinase in cellular signaling mechanisms. Biophys J 2024; 123:2623-2637. [PMID: 38946141 PMCID: PMC11365224 DOI: 10.1016/j.bpj.2024.06.028] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/19/2024] [Revised: 05/15/2024] [Accepted: 06/28/2024] [Indexed: 07/02/2024] Open
Abstract
Raf kinases play key roles in signal transduction in cells for regulating proliferation, differentiation, and survival. Despite decades of research into functions and dynamics of Raf kinases with respect to other cytosolic proteins, understanding Raf kinases is limited by the lack of their full-length structures at the atomic resolution. Here, we present the first model of the full-length CRaf kinase obtained from artificial intelligence/machine learning algorithms with a converging ensemble of structures simulated by large-scale temperature replica exchange simulations. Our model is validated by comparing simulated structures with the latest cryo-EM structure detailing close contacts among three key domains and regions of the CRaf. Our simulations identify potentially new epitopes of intramolecule interactions within the CRaf and reveal a dynamical nature of CRaf kinases, in which the three domains can move back and forth relative to each other for regulatory dynamics. The dynamic conformations are then used in a docking algorithm to shed insight into the paradoxical effect caused by vemurafenib in comparison with a paradox breaker PLX7904. We propose a model of Raf-heterodimer/KRas-dimer as a signalosome based on the dynamics of the full-length CRaf.
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Affiliation(s)
- Van A Ngo
- Advanced Computing for Life Sciences and Engineering, Science Engagement Section, Computing and Computational Sciences, National Center for Computational Sciences, Oak Ridge National Laboratory, Oak Ridge, Tennessee.
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8
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Mozzarelli AM, Simanshu DK, Castel P. Functional and structural insights into RAS effector proteins. Mol Cell 2024; 84:2807-2821. [PMID: 39025071 PMCID: PMC11316660 DOI: 10.1016/j.molcel.2024.06.027] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/08/2024] [Revised: 06/24/2024] [Accepted: 06/25/2024] [Indexed: 07/20/2024]
Abstract
RAS proteins are conserved guanosine triphosphate (GTP) hydrolases (GTPases) that act as molecular binary switches and play vital roles in numerous cellular processes. Upon GTP binding, RAS GTPases adopt an active conformation and interact with specific proteins termed RAS effectors that contain a conserved ubiquitin-like domain, thereby facilitating downstream signaling. Over 50 effector proteins have been identified in the human proteome, and many have been studied as potential mediators of RAS-dependent signaling pathways. Biochemical and structural analyses have provided mechanistic insights into these effectors, and studies using model organisms have complemented our understanding of their role in physiology and disease. Yet, many critical aspects regarding the dynamics and biological function of RAS-effector complexes remain to be elucidated. In this review, we discuss the mechanisms and functions of known RAS effector proteins, provide structural perspectives on RAS-effector interactions, evaluate their significance in RAS-mediated signaling, and explore their potential as therapeutic targets.
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Affiliation(s)
- Alessandro M Mozzarelli
- Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Pharmacology, NYU Grossman School of Medicine, New York, NY, USA; Laura and Isaac Perlmutter NYU Cancer Center, NYU Langone Health, New York, NY, USA
| | - Dhirendra K Simanshu
- NCI RAS Initiative, Cancer Research Technology Program, Frederick National Laboratory for Cancer Research, Frederick, MD, USA.
| | - Pau Castel
- Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Pharmacology, NYU Grossman School of Medicine, New York, NY, USA; Laura and Isaac Perlmutter NYU Cancer Center, NYU Langone Health, New York, NY, USA.
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9
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Bromberger S, Zadorozhna Y, Ressler JM, Holzner S, Nawrocki A, Zila N, Springer A, Røssel Larsen M, Schossleitner K. Off-targets of BRAF inhibitors disrupt endothelial signaling and vascular barrier function. Life Sci Alliance 2024; 7:e202402671. [PMID: 38839106 PMCID: PMC11153892 DOI: 10.26508/lsa.202402671] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/22/2024] [Revised: 05/17/2024] [Accepted: 05/20/2024] [Indexed: 06/07/2024] Open
Abstract
Targeted therapies against mutant BRAF are effectively used in combination with MEK inhibitors (MEKi) to treat advanced melanoma. However, treatment success is affected by resistance and adverse events (AEs). Approved BRAF inhibitors (BRAFi) show high levels of target promiscuity, which can contribute to these effects. The blood vessel lining is in direct contact with high plasma concentrations of BRAFi, but effects of the inhibitors in this cell type are unknown. Hence, we aimed to characterize responses to approved BRAFi for melanoma in the vascular endothelium. We showed that clinically approved BRAFi induced a paradoxical activation of endothelial MAPK signaling. Moreover, phosphoproteomics revealed distinct sets of off-targets per inhibitor. Endothelial barrier function and junction integrity were impaired upon treatment with vemurafenib and the next-generation dimerization inhibitor PLX8394, but not with dabrafenib or encorafenib. Together, these findings provide insights into the surprisingly distinct side effects of BRAFi on endothelial signaling and functionality. Better understanding of off-target effects could help to identify molecular mechanisms behind AEs and guide the continued development of therapies for BRAF-mutant melanoma.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sophie Bromberger
- https://ror.org/05n3x4p02 Department of Dermatology, Medical University of Vienna, Vienna, Austria
| | - Yuliia Zadorozhna
- https://ror.org/05n3x4p02 Department of Dermatology, Medical University of Vienna, Vienna, Austria
| | - Julia Maria Ressler
- https://ror.org/05n3x4p02 Department of Dermatology, Medical University of Vienna, Vienna, Austria
| | - Silvio Holzner
- https://ror.org/05n3x4p02 Department of Dermatology, Medical University of Vienna, Vienna, Austria
| | - Arkadiusz Nawrocki
- Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, University of Southern Denmark, Odense, Denmark
| | - Nina Zila
- https://ror.org/05n3x4p02 Department of Dermatology, Medical University of Vienna, Vienna, Austria
- University of Applied Sciences FH Campus Wien, Division of Biomedical Science, Vienna, Austria
| | - Alexander Springer
- https://ror.org/05n3x4p02 Department of Pediatric Surgery, Medical University of Vienna, Vienna, Austria
| | - Martin Røssel Larsen
- Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, University of Southern Denmark, Odense, Denmark
| | - Klaudia Schossleitner
- https://ror.org/05n3x4p02 Department of Dermatology, Medical University of Vienna, Vienna, Austria
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10
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Fan L, Tong W, Wei A, Mu X. Progress of proteolysis-targeting chimeras (PROTACs) delivery system in tumor treatment. Int J Biol Macromol 2024; 275:133680. [PMID: 38971291 DOI: 10.1016/j.ijbiomac.2024.133680] [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: 05/03/2024] [Revised: 06/27/2024] [Accepted: 07/03/2024] [Indexed: 07/08/2024]
Abstract
Proteolysis targeting chimeras (PROTACs) can use the intrinsic protein degradation system in cells to degrade pathogenic target proteins, and are currently a revolutionary frontier of development strategy for tumor treatment with small molecules. However, the poor water solubility, low cellular permeability, and off-target side effects of most PROTACs have prevented them from passing the preclinical research stage of drug development. This requires the use of appropriate delivery systems to overcome these challenging hurdles and ensure precise delivery of PROTACs towards the tumor site. Therefore, the combination of PROTACs and multifunctional delivery systems will open up new research directions for targeted degradation of tumor proteins. In this review, we systematically reviewed the design principles and the most recent advances of various PROTACs delivery systems. Moreover, the constructive strategies for developing multifunctional PROTACs delivery systems were proposed comprehensively. This review aims to deepen the understanding of PROTACs drugs and promote the further development of PROTACs delivery system.
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Affiliation(s)
- Lianlian Fan
- Department of Pharmacy, China-Japan Union Hospital of Jilin University, Changchun 130033, China
| | - Weifang Tong
- Department of Otolaryngology Head and Neck Surgery, The Second Hospital of Jilin University, Changchun 130021, China
| | - Anhui Wei
- Jilin University School of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Changchun 130021, China
| | - Xupeng Mu
- Scientific Research Center, China-Japan Union Hospital of Jilin University, Changchun 130033, China.
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11
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Jeon H, Tkacik E, Eck MJ. Signaling from RAS to RAF: The Molecules and Their Mechanisms. Annu Rev Biochem 2024; 93:289-316. [PMID: 38316136 DOI: 10.1146/annurev-biochem-052521-040754] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 02/07/2024]
Abstract
RAF family protein kinases are a key node in the RAS/RAF/MAP kinase pathway, the signaling cascade that controls cellular proliferation, differentiation, and survival in response to engagement of growth factor receptors on the cell surface. Over the past few years, structural and biochemical studies have provided new understanding of RAF autoregulation, RAF activation by RAS and the SHOC2 phosphatase complex, and RAF engagement with HSP90-CDC37 chaperone complexes. These studies have important implications for pharmacologic targeting of the pathway. They reveal RAF in distinct regulatory states and show that the functional RAF switch is an integrated complex of RAF with its substrate (MEK) and a 14-3-3 dimer. Here we review these advances, placing them in the context of decades of investigation of RAF regulation. We explore the insights they provide into aberrant activation of the pathway in cancer and RASopathies (developmental syndromes caused by germline mutations in components of the pathway).
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Affiliation(s)
- Hyesung Jeon
- Department of Cancer Biology, Dana-Farber Cancer Institute, Boston, Massachusetts, USA;
- Department of Biological Chemistry and Molecular Pharmacology, Harvard Medical School, Boston, Massachusetts, USA
| | - Emre Tkacik
- Department of Cancer Biology, Dana-Farber Cancer Institute, Boston, Massachusetts, USA;
- Systems, Synthetic, and Quantitative Biology PhD Program, Harvard Medical School, Boston, Massachusetts, USA
| | - Michael J Eck
- Department of Cancer Biology, Dana-Farber Cancer Institute, Boston, Massachusetts, USA;
- Department of Biological Chemistry and Molecular Pharmacology, Harvard Medical School, Boston, Massachusetts, USA
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12
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Smirnova L, Hartung T. The Promise and Potential of Brain Organoids. Adv Healthc Mater 2024; 13:e2302745. [PMID: 38252094 DOI: 10.1002/adhm.202302745] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/20/2023] [Revised: 12/22/2023] [Indexed: 01/23/2024]
Abstract
Brain organoids are 3D in vitro culture systems derived from human pluripotent stem cells that self-organize to model features of the (developing) human brain. This review examines the techniques behind organoid generation, their current and potential applications, and future directions for the field. Brain organoids possess complex architecture containing various neural cell types, synapses, and myelination. They have been utilized for toxicology testing, disease modeling, infection studies, personalized medicine, and gene-environment interaction studies. An emerging concept termed Organoid Intelligence (OI) combines organoids with artificial intelligence systems to generate learning and memory, with the goals of modeling cognition and enabling biological computing applications. Brain organoids allow neuroscience studies not previously achievable with traditional techniques, and have the potential to transform disease modeling, drug development, and the understanding of human brain development and disorders. The aspirational vision of OI parallels the origins of artificial intelligence, and efforts are underway to map a roadmap toward its realization. In summary, brain organoids constitute a disruptive technology that is rapidly advancing and gaining traction across multiple disciplines.
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Affiliation(s)
- Lena Smirnova
- Center for Alternatives to Animal Testing (CAAT), Bloomberg School of Public Health and Whiting School of Engineering, Johns Hopkins University, 615 N Wolfe St, Baltimore, MD, 21205, USA
| | - Thomas Hartung
- Center for Alternatives to Animal Testing (CAAT), Bloomberg School of Public Health and Whiting School of Engineering, Johns Hopkins University, 615 N Wolfe St, Baltimore, MD, 21205, USA
- CAAT-Europe, University of Konstanz, Universitätsstr. 10, 78464, Konstanz, BW, Germany
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13
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Sobierajski T, Małolepsza J, Pichlak M, Gendaszewska-Darmach E, Błażewska KM. The impact of E3 ligase choice on PROTAC effectiveness in protein kinase degradation. Drug Discov Today 2024; 29:104032. [PMID: 38789027 DOI: 10.1016/j.drudis.2024.104032] [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: 02/02/2024] [Revised: 04/30/2024] [Accepted: 05/15/2024] [Indexed: 05/26/2024]
Abstract
Proteolysis targeting chimera (PROTACs) provide a novel therapeutic approach that is revolutionizing drug discovery. The success of PROTACs largely depends on the combination of their three fragments: E3 ligase ligand, linker and protein of interest (POI)-targeting ligand. We summarize the pivotal significance of the precise combination of the E3 ligase ligand with the POI-recruiting warhead, which is crucial for the successful execution of cellular processes and achieving the desired outcomes. Therefore, the key to our selection was the use of at least two ligands recruiting two different ligases. This approach enables a direct comparison of the impacts of the specific ligases on target degradation.
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Affiliation(s)
- Tomasz Sobierajski
- Institute of Organic Chemistry, Lodz University of Technology, Łódź, Poland
| | - Joanna Małolepsza
- Institute of Organic Chemistry, Lodz University of Technology, Łódź, Poland
| | - Marta Pichlak
- Institute of Molecular and Industrial Biotechnology, Lodz University of Technology, Łódź, Poland
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14
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Karras F, Kunz M. Patient-derived melanoma models. Pathol Res Pract 2024; 259:155231. [PMID: 38508996 DOI: 10.1016/j.prp.2024.155231] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/30/2023] [Revised: 02/15/2024] [Accepted: 02/26/2024] [Indexed: 03/22/2024]
Abstract
Melanoma is a very aggressive, rapidly metastasizing tumor that has been studied intensively in the past regarding the underlying genetic and molecular mechanisms. More recently developed treatment modalities have improved response rates and overall survival of patients. However, the majority of patients suffer from secondary treatment resistance, which requires in depth analyses of the underlying mechanisms. Here, melanoma models based on patients-derived material may play an important role. Consequently, a plethora of different experimental techniques have been developed in the past years. Among these are 3D and 4D culture techniques, organotypic skin reconstructs, melanoma-on-chip models and patient-derived xenografts, Every technique has its own strengths but also weaknesses regarding throughput, reproducibility, and reflection of the human situation. Here, we provide a comprehensive overview of currently used techniques and discuss their use in different experimental settings.
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Affiliation(s)
- Franziska Karras
- Institute of Pathology, Otto-von-Guericke University Magdeburg, Leipziger Str. 44, Magdeburg 39120, Germany.
| | - Manfred Kunz
- Department of Dermatology, Venereology and Allergology, University Medical Center Leipzig, Philipp-Rosenthal-Str. 23, Leipzig 04103, Germany
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15
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Combarel D, Dousset L, Bouchet S, Ferrer F, Tetu P, Lebbe C, Ciccolini J, Meyer N, Paci A. Tyrosine kinase inhibitors in cancers: Treatment optimization - Part I. Crit Rev Oncol Hematol 2024; 199:104384. [PMID: 38762217 DOI: 10.1016/j.critrevonc.2024.104384] [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: 01/24/2024] [Revised: 05/02/2024] [Accepted: 05/03/2024] [Indexed: 05/20/2024] Open
Abstract
A multitude of TKI has been developed and approved targeting various oncogenetic alterations. While these have provided improvements in efficacy compared with conventional chemotherapies, resistance to targeted therapies occurs. Mutations in the kinase domain result in the inability of TKI to inactivate the protein kinase. Also, gene amplification, increased protein expression and downstream activation or bypassing of signalling pathways are commonly reported mechanisms of resistance. Improved understanding of mechanisms involved in TKI resistance has resulted in the development of new generations of targeted agents. In a race against time, the search for new, more potent and efficient drugs, and/or combinations of drugs, remains necessary as new resistance mechanisms to the latest generation of TKI emerge. This review examines the various generations of TKI approved to date and their common mechanisms of resistance, focusing on TKI targeting BCR-ABL, epidermal growth factor receptor, anaplastic lymphoma kinase and BRAF/MEK tyrosine kinases.
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Affiliation(s)
- David Combarel
- Service de Pharmacologie, Département de Biologie et Pathologie médicales, Gustave Roussy, Villejuif 94805, France; Service de Pharmacocinétique, Faculté de Pharmacie, Université Paris Saclay, Châtenay-Malabry 92 296, France
| | - Léa Dousset
- Dermatology Department, Bordeaux University Hospital, Bordeaux, France
| | - Stéphane Bouchet
- Département de Pharmacologie, Centre Hospitalier Universitaire de Bordeaux, Bordeaux, France
| | - Florent Ferrer
- Department of Pharmacology, Clermont-Ferrand University Hospital, Clermont-Ferrand, France; SMARTc Unit, CRCM Inserm U1068, Aix Marseille Univ and APHM, Marseille, France
| | - Pauline Tetu
- Department of Dermatology, APHP Dermatology, Paris 7 Diderot University, INSERM U976, Hôpital Saint-Louis, Paris, France
| | - Céleste Lebbe
- Department of Dermatology, APHP Dermatology, Paris 7 Diderot University, INSERM U976, Hôpital Saint-Louis, Paris, France
| | - Joseph Ciccolini
- SMARTc Unit, CRCM Inserm U1068, Aix Marseille Univ and APHM, Marseille, France
| | - Nicolas Meyer
- Université Paul Sabatier-Toulouse III, Institut National de la Santé et de la Recherche Médicale Unité Mixte de Recherche 1037-CRCT, Toulouse, France
| | - Angelo Paci
- Service de Pharmacologie, Département de Biologie et Pathologie médicales, Gustave Roussy, Villejuif 94805, France; Service de Pharmacocinétique, Faculté de Pharmacie, Université Paris Saclay, Châtenay-Malabry 92 296, France.
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16
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Perrone C, Angioli R, Luvero D, Giannini A, Di Donato V, Cuccu I, Muzii L, Raspagliesi F, Bogani G. Targeting BRAF pathway in low-grade serous ovarian cancer. J Gynecol Oncol 2024; 35:e104. [PMID: 38768941 PMCID: PMC11262891 DOI: 10.3802/jgo.2024.35.e104] [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: 02/19/2024] [Revised: 04/14/2024] [Accepted: 05/07/2024] [Indexed: 05/22/2024] Open
Abstract
Mutations in genes encoding for proteins along the RAS-RAF-MEK-ERK pathway have been detected in a variety of tumor entities including ovarian carcinomas. In the recent years, several inhibitors of this pathway have been developed, whose antitumor potential is currently being assessed in different clinical trials. Low grade serous ovarian carcinoma, is a rare gynecological tumor which shows favorable overall survival, compared to the general ovarian cancer population, but worrying resistance to conventional chemotherapies. The clinical behavior of low grade serous ovarian carcinoma reflects the different gene profile compared to high-grade serous carcinoma: KRAS/BRAF mutations. BRAF inhibitors as single agents were approved for the treatment of BRAF mutated tumors. Nevertheless, many patients face progressive disease. The understanding of the mechanisms of resistance to BRAF inhibitors therapy and preclinical studies showing that BRAF and mitogen-activated protein kinase kinase (MEK) inhibitors combined therapy delays the onset of resistance compared to BRAF inhibitor single agent, led to the clinical investigation of combined therapy. The aim of this paper is to review the efficacy and safety of the combination of BRAF plus MEK inhibitors on ovarian carcinomas, in particularly focusing on low grade serous ovarian carcinoma.
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Affiliation(s)
- Chiara Perrone
- Department of Gynecological, Obstetrical and Urological Sciences, Sapienza University of Rome, Rome, Italy
| | - Roberto Angioli
- Department of Gynecology, Campus Bio-Medico University Hospital Foundation, Rome, Italy
| | - Daniela Luvero
- Department of Gynecology, Campus Bio-Medico University Hospital Foundation, Rome, Italy
| | - Andrea Giannini
- Department of Gynecological, Obstetrical and Urological Sciences, Sapienza University of Rome, Rome, Italy
| | - Violante Di Donato
- Department of Gynecological, Obstetrical and Urological Sciences, Sapienza University of Rome, Rome, Italy
| | - Ilaria Cuccu
- Department of Gynecological, Obstetrical and Urological Sciences, Sapienza University of Rome, Rome, Italy
| | - Ludovico Muzii
- Department of Gynecological, Obstetrical and Urological Sciences, Sapienza University of Rome, Rome, Italy
| | - Francesco Raspagliesi
- Gynecologic Oncologic Unit, Fondazione IRCCS Istituto Nazionale dei Tumori, Milano, Italy
| | - Giorgio Bogani
- Gynecologic Oncologic Unit, Fondazione IRCCS Istituto Nazionale dei Tumori, Milano, Italy.
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17
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Takada M, Kitagawa K, Zhang Y, Bulitta JB, Moirano S, Jones A, Borgen J, Onsager A, Thaiwong T, Vail DM. Population Pharmacokinetics, Pharmacodynamics and Safety Properties of Trametinib in Dogs With Cancer: A Phase I Dose Escalating Clinical Trial. Vet Comp Oncol 2024. [PMID: 38889903 DOI: 10.1111/vco.12989] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/27/2024] [Revised: 05/20/2024] [Accepted: 05/22/2024] [Indexed: 06/20/2024]
Abstract
MAPK has been reported as a key oncogenic pathway for canine histiocytic sarcoma, which can be pharmacologically targeted with trametinib, a small inhibitor of MEK1/2. Preliminary data showed promising antitumor activity in in vitro and in vivo models and represented a proof of concept to translate the findings from bench to bedside. In this phase I, dose escalating study using a 3 + 3 cohort design, trametinib was evaluated in 18 dogs with cancer. Adverse events were graded according to VCOG-CTCAE v2. Blood samples and tumour biopsies were collected for pharmacokinetic and pharmacodynamic assessment. Trametinib was well tolerated with a maximum tolerated dose of 0.5 mg/m2/day, PO. Dose-limiting toxicities included systemic hypertension, proteinuria, lethargy and elevated ALP, and were all Grade 3. The drug exposures increased more than linearly with dose since the elimination of trametinib was saturable. At a dose of 500 μg Q24h (0.5 mg/m2/day in a 30 kg dog), approximately 70% of dogs had an average steady-state concentration of 10 ng/mL, achieved after approximately 2 weeks. This threshold was associated with clinical efficacy in humans. Target engagement was not observed in biospecimens collected on Days 0 and 7. In conclusion, trametinib was considered safe in dogs with cancer, and the dose of 0.5 mg/m2/day was the recommended dose for phase II studies.
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Affiliation(s)
- Marilia Takada
- Department of Surgical Sciences, School of Veterinary Medicine, University of Wisconsin-Madison, Madison, Wisconsin, USA
- Department of Small Animal Clinical Sciences, College of Veterinary Medicine, University of Florida, Gainesville, Florida, USA
| | - Keita Kitagawa
- Department of Small Animal Clinical Sciences, College of Veterinary Medicine, University of Florida, Gainesville, Florida, USA
| | - Yongzhen Zhang
- Department of Pharmacotherapy and Translational Research, College of Pharmacy, University of Florida, Gainesville, Florida, USA
| | - Jürgen B Bulitta
- Department of Pharmacotherapy and Translational Research, College of Pharmacy, University of Florida, Gainesville, Florida, USA
| | - Steven Moirano
- Department of Surgical Sciences, School of Veterinary Medicine, University of Wisconsin-Madison, Madison, Wisconsin, USA
| | - Abigail Jones
- Department of Surgical Sciences, School of Veterinary Medicine, University of Wisconsin-Madison, Madison, Wisconsin, USA
| | - Jennifer Borgen
- Department of Surgical Sciences, School of Veterinary Medicine, University of Wisconsin-Madison, Madison, Wisconsin, USA
| | - Ashley Onsager
- Department of Surgical Sciences, School of Veterinary Medicine, University of Wisconsin-Madison, Madison, Wisconsin, USA
| | - Tuddow Thaiwong
- Veterinary Diagnostic Laboratory, Michigan State University, Lansing, Michigan, USA
| | - David M Vail
- Department of Medical Sciences, School of Veterinary Medicine, University of Wisconsin-Madison, Madison, Wisconsin, USA
- Carbone Comprehensive Cancer Center, University of Wisconsin-Madison, Madison, Wisconsin, USA
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18
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Chen Y, Yu J, Ge S, Jia R, Song X, Wang Y, Fan X. An Overview of Optic Pathway Glioma With Neurofibromatosis Type 1: Pathogenesis, Risk Factors, and Therapeutic Strategies. Invest Ophthalmol Vis Sci 2024; 65:8. [PMID: 38837168 PMCID: PMC11160950 DOI: 10.1167/iovs.65.6.8] [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: 01/07/2024] [Accepted: 05/14/2024] [Indexed: 06/06/2024] Open
Abstract
Optic pathway gliomas (OPGs) are most predominant pilocytic astrocytomas, which are typically diagnosed within the first decade of life. The majority of affected children with OPGs also present with neurofibromatosis type 1 (NF1), the most common tumor predisposition syndrome. OPGs in individuals with NF1 primarily affect the optic pathway and lead to visual disturbance. However, it is challenging to assess risk in asymptomatic patients without valid biomarkers. On the other hand, for symptomatic patients, there is still no effective treatment to prevent or recover vision loss. Therefore, this review summarizes current knowledge regarding the pathogenesis of NF1-associated OPGs (NF1-OPGs) from preclinical studies to seek potential prognostic markers and therapeutic targets. First, the loss of the NF1 gene activates 3 distinct Ras effector pathways, including the PI3K/AKT/mTOR pathway, the MEK/ERK pathway, and the cAMP pathway, which mediate glioma tumorigenesis. Meanwhile, non-neoplastic cells from the tumor microenvironment (microglia, T cells, neurons, etc.) also contribute to gliomagenesis via various soluble factors. Subsequently, we investigated potential genetic risk factors, molecularly targeted therapies, and neuroprotective strategies for tumor prevention and vision recovery. Last, potential directions and promising preclinical models of NF1-OPGs are presented for further research. On the whole, NF1-OPGs develop as a result of the interaction between glioma cells and the tumor microenvironment. Developing effective treatments require a better understanding of tumor molecular characteristics, as well as multistage interventions targeting both neoplastic cells and non-neoplastic cells.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ying Chen
- Department of Ophthalmology, Shanghai Key Laboratory of Orbital Diseases and Ocular Oncology, Ninth People's Hospital, Shanghai JiaoTong University School of Medicine, Shanghai, P.R. China
| | - Jie Yu
- Department of Ophthalmology, Shanghai Key Laboratory of Orbital Diseases and Ocular Oncology, Ninth People's Hospital, Shanghai JiaoTong University School of Medicine, Shanghai, P.R. China
| | - Shengfang Ge
- Department of Ophthalmology, Shanghai Key Laboratory of Orbital Diseases and Ocular Oncology, Ninth People's Hospital, Shanghai JiaoTong University School of Medicine, Shanghai, P.R. China
| | - Renbing Jia
- Department of Ophthalmology, Shanghai Key Laboratory of Orbital Diseases and Ocular Oncology, Ninth People's Hospital, Shanghai JiaoTong University School of Medicine, Shanghai, P.R. China
| | - Xin Song
- Department of Ophthalmology, Shanghai Key Laboratory of Orbital Diseases and Ocular Oncology, Ninth People's Hospital, Shanghai JiaoTong University School of Medicine, Shanghai, P.R. China
| | - Yefei Wang
- Department of Ophthalmology, Shanghai Key Laboratory of Orbital Diseases and Ocular Oncology, Ninth People's Hospital, Shanghai JiaoTong University School of Medicine, Shanghai, P.R. China
| | - Xianqun Fan
- Department of Ophthalmology, Shanghai Key Laboratory of Orbital Diseases and Ocular Oncology, Ninth People's Hospital, Shanghai JiaoTong University School of Medicine, Shanghai, P.R. China
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19
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Katz S, Ciuba D, Ribas A, Shelach N, Zelinger G, Barrow B, Corn BW. A topical BRAF inhibitor (LUT-014) for treatment of radiodermatitis among women with breast cancer. JAAD Int 2024; 15:62-68. [PMID: 38405632 PMCID: PMC10891318 DOI: 10.1016/j.jdin.2023.11.009] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 11/22/2023] [Indexed: 02/27/2024] Open
Abstract
Background Modern radiotherapy is associated with dermatitis (RD) in approximately one-third of patients treated for breast cancer. There is currently no standard for treating RD. Objective The objective of this study was to determine whether LUT014, a topical BRAF inhibitor which paradoxically activates mitogen-activated protein kinase, can safely improve RD. Methods A phase I/II study was designed to first follow a small cohort of women with grade 2 RD regarding toxicity and response. Then, 20 patients were randomized to compare LUT014 to "vehicle" relative to safety and response (measured with common terminology criteria for adverse events, Dermatology Life Quality Index). Results No substantial toxicity (eg, 0 serious adverse event) was associated with LUT014. All 8 women receiving LUT014 achieved treatment success (5-point Dermatology Life Quality Index reduction at day 14) compared to 73% (8/11) on the placebo arm (P = .591). The time to complete recovery was shorter in the treatment arm. Limitations The sample size was limited. Only 2 hospitals were included. Conclusions Topical LU014 is tolerable and may be efficacious for grade 2 RD.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sanford Katz
- Division of Radiotherapy, Willis-Knighton Cancer Center, Shreveport, Louisiana
| | - Doug Ciuba
- Radiation Oncology of Columbus, Columbus, Georgia
| | - Antoni Ribas
- Department of Medical Oncology, University of California Los Angeles (UCAL) and Jonsson Comprehensive Cancer Center, Los Angeles, California
| | | | - Galit Zelinger
- Department of Medical Oncology, University of California Los Angeles (UCAL) and Jonsson Comprehensive Cancer Center, Los Angeles, California
| | - Briana Barrow
- Division of Radiotherapy, Willis-Knighton Cancer Center, Shreveport, Louisiana
| | - Benjamin W. Corn
- Lutris-Pharma, Tel Aviv, Israel
- Department of Oncology, Hebrew University Faculty of Medicine, Jerusalem, Israel
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20
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Bjorklund GR, Rees KP, Balasubramanian K, Hewitt LT, Nishimura K, Newbern JM. Hyperactivation of MEK1 in cortical glutamatergic neurons results in projection axon deficits and aberrant motor learning. Dis Model Mech 2024; 17:dmm050570. [PMID: 38826084 PMCID: PMC11247507 DOI: 10.1242/dmm.050570] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/06/2023] [Accepted: 05/21/2024] [Indexed: 06/04/2024] Open
Abstract
Abnormal extracellular signal-regulated kinase 1/2 (ERK1/2, encoded by Mapk3 and Mapk1, respectively) signaling is linked to multiple neurodevelopmental diseases, especially the RASopathies, which typically exhibit ERK1/2 hyperactivation in neurons and non-neuronal cells. To better understand how excitatory neuron-autonomous ERK1/2 activity regulates forebrain development, we conditionally expressed a hyperactive MEK1 (MAP2K1) mutant, MEK1S217/221E, in cortical excitatory neurons of mice. MEK1S217/221E expression led to persistent hyperactivation of ERK1/2 in cortical axons, but not in soma/nuclei. We noted reduced axonal arborization in multiple target domains in mutant mice and reduced the levels of the activity-dependent protein ARC. These changes did not lead to deficits in voluntary locomotion or accelerating rotarod performance. However, skilled motor learning in a single-pellet retrieval task was significantly diminished in these MEK1S217/221E mutants. Restriction of MEK1S217/221E expression to layer V cortical neurons recapitulated axonal outgrowth deficits but did not affect motor learning. These results suggest that cortical excitatory neuron-autonomous hyperactivation of MEK1 is sufficient to drive deficits in axon outgrowth, which coincide with reduced ARC expression, and deficits in skilled motor learning. Our data indicate that neuron-autonomous decreases in long-range axonal outgrowth may be a key aspect of neuropathogenesis in RASopathies.
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Affiliation(s)
- George R. Bjorklund
- School of Life Sciences, Arizona State University, Tempe, AZ 85287, USA
- School of Biological and Health Systems Engineering, Arizona State University, Tempe, AZ 85287, USA
| | - Katherina P. Rees
- School of Life Sciences, Arizona State University, Tempe, AZ 85287, USA
| | | | - Lauren T. Hewitt
- School of Life Sciences, Arizona State University, Tempe, AZ 85287, USA
| | - Kenji Nishimura
- School of Life Sciences, Arizona State University, Tempe, AZ 85287, USA
| | - Jason M. Newbern
- School of Life Sciences, Arizona State University, Tempe, AZ 85287, USA
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21
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Scardaci R, Berlinska E, Scaparone P, Vietti Michelina S, Garbo E, Novello S, Santamaria D, Ambrogio C. Novel RAF-directed approaches to overcome current clinical limits and block the RAS/RAF node. Mol Oncol 2024; 18:1355-1377. [PMID: 38362705 PMCID: PMC11161739 DOI: 10.1002/1878-0261.13605] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/24/2023] [Revised: 11/30/2023] [Accepted: 01/30/2024] [Indexed: 02/17/2024] Open
Abstract
Mutations in the RAS-RAF-MEK-ERK pathway are frequent alterations in cancer and RASopathies, and while RAS oncogene activation alone affects 19% of all patients and accounts for approximately 3.4 million new cases every year, less frequent alterations in the cascade's downstream effectors are also involved in cancer etiology. RAS proteins initiate the signaling cascade by promoting the dimerization of RAF kinases, which can act as oncoproteins as well: BRAFV600E is the most common oncogenic driver, mutated in the 8% of all malignancies. Research in this field led to the development of drugs that target the BRAFV600-like mutations (Class I), which are now utilized in clinics, but cause paradoxical activation of the pathway and resistance development. Furthermore, they are ineffective against non-BRAFV600E malignancies that dimerize and could be either RTK/RAS independent or dependent (Class II and III, respectively), which are still lacking an effective treatment. This review discusses the recent advances in anti-RAF therapies, including paradox breakers, dimer-inhibitors, immunotherapies, and other novel approaches, critically evaluating their efficacy in overcoming the therapeutic limitations, and their putative role in blocking the RAS pathway.
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Affiliation(s)
- Rossella Scardaci
- Department of Molecular Biotechnology and Health Sciences, Molecular Biotechnology CenterUniversity of TorinoItaly
| | - Ewa Berlinska
- Department of Molecular Biotechnology and Health Sciences, Molecular Biotechnology CenterUniversity of TorinoItaly
| | - Pietro Scaparone
- Department of Molecular Biotechnology and Health Sciences, Molecular Biotechnology CenterUniversity of TorinoItaly
| | - Sandra Vietti Michelina
- Department of Molecular Biotechnology and Health Sciences, Molecular Biotechnology CenterUniversity of TorinoItaly
| | - Edoardo Garbo
- Department of OncologyUniversity of Torino, San Luigi HospitalOrbassanoItaly
| | - Silvia Novello
- Department of OncologyUniversity of Torino, San Luigi HospitalOrbassanoItaly
| | - David Santamaria
- Centro de Investigación del CáncerCSIC‐Universidad de SalamancaSpain
| | - Chiara Ambrogio
- Department of Molecular Biotechnology and Health Sciences, Molecular Biotechnology CenterUniversity of TorinoItaly
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22
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Turner N, Hamidi S, Ouni R, Rico R, Henderson YC, Puche M, Alekseev S, Colunga-Minutti JG, Zafereo ME, Lai SY, Kim ST, Cabanillas ME, Nurieva R. Emerging therapeutic options for follicular-derived thyroid cancer in the era of immunotherapy. Front Immunol 2024; 15:1369780. [PMID: 38868771 PMCID: PMC11167082 DOI: 10.3389/fimmu.2024.1369780] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/12/2024] [Accepted: 03/12/2024] [Indexed: 06/14/2024] Open
Abstract
Although most follicular-derived thyroid cancers are well differentiated and have an overall excellent prognosis following treatment with surgery and radioiodine, management of advanced thyroid cancers, including iodine refractory disease and poorly differentiated/undifferentiated subtypes, is more challenging. Over the past decade, better understanding of the genetic drivers and immune milieu of advanced thyroid cancers has led to significant progress in the management of these patients. Numerous targeted kinase inhibitors are now approved by the U.S Food and Drug administration (FDA) for the treatment of advanced, radioiodine refractory differentiated thyroid cancers (DTC) as well as anaplastic thyroid cancer (ATC). Immunotherapy has also been thoroughly studied and has shown promise in selected cases. In this review, we summarize the progress in the understanding of the genetic landscape and the cellular and molecular basis of radioiodine refractory-DTC and ATC, as well as discuss the current treatment options and future therapeutic avenues.
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Affiliation(s)
- Naimah Turner
- Department of Immunology, The University of Texas MD Anderson Cancer Center, Houston, TX, United States
| | - Sarah Hamidi
- Department of Endocrine Neoplasia and Hormonal Disorders, The University of Texas MD Anderson Cancer Center, Houston, TX, United States
| | - Rim Ouni
- Department of Immunology, The University of Texas MD Anderson Cancer Center, Houston, TX, United States
| | - Rene Rico
- Department of Immunology, The University of Texas MD Anderson Cancer Center, Houston, TX, United States
| | - Ying C. Henderson
- Department of Head and Neck Surgery, The University of Texas MD Anderson Cancer Center, Houston, TX, United States
| | - Maria Puche
- Department of Immunology, The University of Texas MD Anderson Cancer Center, Houston, TX, United States
- Department of Biology, College of Science and Engineering, Houston Christian University, Houston, TX, United States
| | - Sayan Alekseev
- Department of Immunology, The University of Texas MD Anderson Cancer Center, Houston, TX, United States
- Program of Biology, College of Sciences, The University of Texas at San Antonio, San Antonio, TX, United States
| | - Jocelynn G. Colunga-Minutti
- Department of Immunology, The University of Texas MD Anderson Cancer Center, Houston, TX, United States
- Program of Immunology, The University of Texas MD Anderson Cancer Center UTHealth Graduate School of Biomedical Sciences (GSBS), Houston, TX, United States
| | - Mark E. Zafereo
- Department of Head and Neck Surgery, The University of Texas MD Anderson Cancer Center, Houston, TX, United States
| | - Stephen Y. Lai
- Department of Head and Neck Surgery, The University of Texas MD Anderson Cancer Center, Houston, TX, United States
| | - Sang T. Kim
- Department of Rheumatology, Allergy and Immunology, Yale University, New Haven, CT, United States
| | - Maria E. Cabanillas
- Department of Endocrine Neoplasia and Hormonal Disorders, The University of Texas MD Anderson Cancer Center, Houston, TX, United States
| | - Roza Nurieva
- Department of Immunology, The University of Texas MD Anderson Cancer Center, Houston, TX, United States
- Program of Immunology, The University of Texas MD Anderson Cancer Center UTHealth Graduate School of Biomedical Sciences (GSBS), Houston, TX, United States
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23
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De Carli A, Kapelyukh Y, Kursawe J, Chaplain MAJ, Wolf CR, Hamis S. Simulating BRAFV600E-MEK-ERK signalling dynamics in response to vertical inhibition treatment strategies. NPJ Syst Biol Appl 2024; 10:51. [PMID: 38750040 PMCID: PMC11096323 DOI: 10.1038/s41540-024-00379-9] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/13/2023] [Accepted: 04/29/2024] [Indexed: 05/18/2024] Open
Abstract
In vertical inhibition treatment strategies, multiple components of an intracellular pathway are simultaneously inhibited. Vertical inhibition of the BRAFV600E-MEK-ERK signalling pathway is a standard of care for treating BRAFV600E-mutated melanoma where two targeted cancer drugs, a BRAFV600E-inhibitor, and a MEK inhibitor, are administered in combination. Targeted therapies have been linked to early onsets of drug resistance, and thus treatment strategies of higher complexities and lower doses have been proposed as alternatives to current clinical strategies. However, finding optimal complex, low-dose treatment strategies is a challenge, as it is possible to design more treatment strategies than are feasibly testable in experimental settings. To quantitatively address this challenge, we develop a mathematical model of BRAFV600E-MEK-ERK signalling dynamics in response to combinations of the BRAFV600E-inhibitor dabrafenib (DBF), the MEK inhibitor trametinib (TMT), and the ERK-inhibitor SCH772984 (SCH). From a model of the BRAFV600E-MEK-ERK pathway, and a set of molecular-level drug-protein interactions, we extract a system of chemical reactions that is parameterised by in vitro data and converted to a system of ordinary differential equations (ODEs) using the law of mass action. The ODEs are solved numerically to produce simulations of how pathway-component concentrations change over time in response to different treatment strategies, i.e., inhibitor combinations and doses. The model can thus be used to limit the search space for effective treatment strategies that target the BRAFV600E-MEK-ERK pathway and warrant further experimental investigation. The results demonstrate that DBF and DBF-TMT-SCH therapies show marked sensitivity to BRAFV600E concentrations in silico, whilst TMT and SCH monotherapies do not.
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Affiliation(s)
- Alice De Carli
- School of Mathematics and Statistics, University of St Andrews, St Andrews, Scotland, UK
| | - Yury Kapelyukh
- School of Medicine, Jacqui Wood Cancer Centre, Ninewells Hospital and Medical School, University of Dundee, Dundee, Scotland, UK
| | - Jochen Kursawe
- School of Mathematics and Statistics, University of St Andrews, St Andrews, Scotland, UK
| | - Mark A J Chaplain
- School of Mathematics and Statistics, University of St Andrews, St Andrews, Scotland, UK
| | - C Roland Wolf
- School of Medicine, Jacqui Wood Cancer Centre, Ninewells Hospital and Medical School, University of Dundee, Dundee, Scotland, UK
| | - Sara Hamis
- School of Mathematics and Statistics, University of St Andrews, St Andrews, Scotland, UK.
- Tampere Institute for Advanced Study, Faculty of Medicine and Health Technology, Tampere University, Tampere, Finland.
- Department of Information Technology, Uppsala University, Uppsala, Sweden.
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24
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Rasmussen DM, Semonis MM, Greene JT, Muretta JM, Thompson AR, Toledo Ramos S, Thomas DD, Pomerantz WCK, Freedman TS, Levinson NM. Allosteric coupling asymmetry mediates paradoxical activation of BRAF by type II inhibitors. eLife 2024; 13:RP95481. [PMID: 38742856 PMCID: PMC11093583 DOI: 10.7554/elife.95481] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 05/16/2024] Open
Abstract
The type II class of RAF inhibitors currently in clinical trials paradoxically activate BRAF at subsaturating concentrations. Activation is mediated by induction of BRAF dimers, but why activation rather than inhibition occurs remains unclear. Using biophysical methods tracking BRAF dimerization and conformation, we built an allosteric model of inhibitor-induced dimerization that resolves the allosteric contributions of inhibitor binding to the two active sites of the dimer, revealing key differences between type I and type II RAF inhibitors. For type II inhibitors the allosteric coupling between inhibitor binding and BRAF dimerization is distributed asymmetrically across the two dimer binding sites, with binding to the first site dominating the allostery. This asymmetry results in efficient and selective induction of dimers with one inhibited and one catalytically active subunit. Our allosteric models quantitatively account for paradoxical activation data measured for 11 RAF inhibitors. Unlike type II inhibitors, type I inhibitors lack allosteric asymmetry and do not activate BRAF homodimers. Finally, NMR data reveal that BRAF homodimers are dynamically asymmetric with only one of the subunits locked in the active αC-in state. This provides a structural mechanism for how binding of only a single αC-in inhibitor molecule can induce potent BRAF dimerization and activation.
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Affiliation(s)
- Damien M Rasmussen
- Department of Pharmacology, University of MinnesotaMinneapolisUnited States
- Department of Biochemistry, Molecular Biology, and Biophysics, University of MinnesotaMinneapolisUnited States
| | - Manny M Semonis
- Department of Pharmacology, University of MinnesotaMinneapolisUnited States
| | - Joseph T Greene
- Department of Pharmacology, University of MinnesotaMinneapolisUnited States
| | - Joseph M Muretta
- Department of Biochemistry, Molecular Biology, and Biophysics, University of MinnesotaMinneapolisUnited States
| | - Andrew R Thompson
- Department of Biochemistry, Molecular Biology, and Biophysics, University of MinnesotaMinneapolisUnited States
| | | | - David D Thomas
- Department of Biochemistry, Molecular Biology, and Biophysics, University of MinnesotaMinneapolisUnited States
| | | | - Tanya S Freedman
- Department of Pharmacology, University of MinnesotaMinneapolisUnited States
- Center for Immunology, University of MinnesotaMinneapolisUnited States
- Masonic Cancer Center, University of MinnesotaMinneapolisUnited States
| | - Nicholas M Levinson
- Department of Pharmacology, University of MinnesotaMinneapolisUnited States
- Masonic Cancer Center, University of MinnesotaMinneapolisUnited States
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25
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Yin H, Tang Q, Xia H, Bi F. Targeting RAF dimers in RAS mutant tumors: From biology to clinic. Acta Pharm Sin B 2024; 14:1895-1923. [PMID: 38799634 PMCID: PMC11120325 DOI: 10.1016/j.apsb.2024.02.018] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/09/2023] [Revised: 01/02/2024] [Accepted: 02/20/2024] [Indexed: 05/29/2024] Open
Abstract
RAS mutations occur in approximately 30% of tumors worldwide and have a poor prognosis due to limited therapies. Covalent targeting of KRAS G12C has achieved significant success in recent years, but there is still a lack of efficient therapeutic approaches for tumors with non-G12C KRAS mutations. A highly promising approach is to target the MAPK pathway downstream of RAS, with a particular focus on RAF kinases. First-generation RAF inhibitors have been authorized to treat BRAF mutant tumors for over a decade. However, their use in RAS-mutated tumors is not recommended due to the paradoxical ERK activation mainly caused by RAF dimerization. To address the issue of RAF dimerization, type II RAF inhibitors have emerged as leading candidates. Recent clinical studies have shown the initial effectiveness of these agents against RAS mutant tumors. Promisingly, type II RAF inhibitors in combination with MEK or ERK inhibitors have demonstrated impressive efficacy in RAS mutant tumors. This review aims to clarify the importance of RAF dimerization in cellular signaling and resistance to treatment in tumors with RAS mutations, as well as recent progress in therapeutic approaches to address the problem of RAF dimerization in RAS mutant tumors.
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Affiliation(s)
- Huanhuan Yin
- Division of Abdominal Cancer, Department of Medical Oncology, Cancer Center and Laboratory of Molecular Targeted Therapy in Oncology, West China Hospital, Sichuan University, Chengdu 610041, China
| | - Qiulin Tang
- Division of Abdominal Cancer, Department of Medical Oncology, Cancer Center and Laboratory of Molecular Targeted Therapy in Oncology, West China Hospital, Sichuan University, Chengdu 610041, China
| | - Hongwei Xia
- Division of Abdominal Cancer, Department of Medical Oncology, Cancer Center and Laboratory of Molecular Targeted Therapy in Oncology, West China Hospital, Sichuan University, Chengdu 610041, China
| | - Feng Bi
- Division of Abdominal Cancer, Department of Medical Oncology, Cancer Center and Laboratory of Molecular Targeted Therapy in Oncology, West China Hospital, Sichuan University, Chengdu 610041, China
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26
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Adamopoulos C, Papavassiliou KA, Poulikakos PI, Papavassiliou AG. RAF and MEK Inhibitors in Non-Small Cell Lung Cancer. Int J Mol Sci 2024; 25:4633. [PMID: 38731852 PMCID: PMC11083651 DOI: 10.3390/ijms25094633] [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: 02/29/2024] [Revised: 04/17/2024] [Accepted: 04/22/2024] [Indexed: 05/13/2024] Open
Abstract
Lung cancer, despite recent advancements in survival rates, represents a significant global health burden. Non-small cell lung cancer (NSCLC), the most prevalent type, is driven largely by activating mutations in Kirsten rat sarcoma viral oncogene homologue (KRAS) and receptor tyrosine kinases (RTKs), and less in v-RAF murine sarcoma viral oncogene homolog B (BRAF) and mitogen-activated protein-kinase kinase (MEK), all key components of the RTK-RAS-mitogen-activated protein kinase (MAPK) pathway. Learning from melanoma, the identification of BRAFV600E substitution in NSCLC provided the rationale for the investigation of RAF and MEK inhibition as a therapeutic strategy. The regulatory approval of two RAF-MEK inhibitor combinations, dabrafenib-trametinib, in 2017, and encorafenib-binimetinib, in 2023, signifies a breakthrough for the management of BRAFV600E-mutant NSCLC patients. However, the almost universal emergence of acquired resistance limits their clinical benefit. New RAF and MEK inhibitors, with distinct biochemical characteristics, are in preclinical and clinical development. In this review, we aim to provide valuable insights into the current state of RAF and MEK inhibition in the management of NSCLC, fostering a deeper understanding of the potential impact on patient outcomes.
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Affiliation(s)
- Christos Adamopoulos
- Department of Biological Chemistry, Medical School, National and Kapodistrian University of Athens, 11527 Athens, Greece
- Department of Oncological Sciences, Precision Immunology Institute, Tisch Cancer Institute, Icahn School of Medicine at Mount Sinai, New York, NY 10029, USA;
| | - Kostas A. Papavassiliou
- First University Department of Respiratory Medicine, ‘Sotiria’ Hospital, Medical School, National and Kapodistrian University of Athens, 11527 Athens, Greece;
| | - Poulikos I. Poulikakos
- Department of Oncological Sciences, Precision Immunology Institute, Tisch Cancer Institute, Icahn School of Medicine at Mount Sinai, New York, NY 10029, USA;
| | - Athanasios G. Papavassiliou
- Department of Biological Chemistry, Medical School, National and Kapodistrian University of Athens, 11527 Athens, Greece
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27
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Cooke SF, Wright TA, Sin YY, Ling J, Kyurkchieva E, Phanthaphol N, Mcskimming T, Herbert K, Rebus S, Biankin AV, Chang DK, Baillie GS, Blair CM. Disruption of the pro-oncogenic c-RAF-PDE8A complex represents a differentiated approach to treating KRAS-c-RAF dependent PDAC. Sci Rep 2024; 14:8998. [PMID: 38637546 PMCID: PMC11026450 DOI: 10.1038/s41598-024-59451-3] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/21/2023] [Accepted: 04/10/2024] [Indexed: 04/20/2024] Open
Abstract
Pancreatic ductal adenocarcinoma (PDAC) is considered the third leading cause of cancer mortality in the western world, offering advanced stage patients with few viable treatment options. Consequently, there remains an urgent unmet need to develop novel therapeutic strategies that can effectively inhibit pro-oncogenic molecular targets underpinning PDACs pathogenesis and progression. One such target is c-RAF, a downstream effector of RAS that is considered essential for the oncogenic growth and survival of mutant RAS-driven cancers (including KRASMT PDAC). Herein, we demonstrate how a novel cell-penetrating peptide disruptor (DRx-170) of the c-RAF-PDE8A protein-protein interaction (PPI) represents a differentiated approach to exploiting the c-RAF-cAMP/PKA signaling axes and treating KRAS-c-RAF dependent PDAC. Through disrupting the c-RAF-PDE8A protein complex, DRx-170 promotes the inactivation of c-RAF through an allosteric mechanism, dependent upon inactivating PKA phosphorylation. DRx-170 inhibits cell proliferation, adhesion and migration of a KRASMT PDAC cell line (PANC1), independent of ERK1/2 activity. Moreover, combining DRx-170 with afatinib significantly enhances PANC1 growth inhibition in both 2D and 3D cellular models. DRx-170 sensitivity appears to correlate with c-RAF dependency. This proof-of-concept study supports the development of DRx-170 as a novel and differentiated strategy for targeting c-RAF activity in KRAS-c-RAF dependent PDAC.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sean F Cooke
- College of Medical, Veterinary and Life Sciences, University of Glasgow, Glasgow, Scotland, UK
| | - Thomas A Wright
- College of Medical, Veterinary and Life Sciences, University of Glasgow, Glasgow, Scotland, UK
| | - Yuan Yan Sin
- College of Medical, Veterinary and Life Sciences, University of Glasgow, Glasgow, Scotland, UK
| | - Jiayue Ling
- College of Medical, Veterinary and Life Sciences, University of Glasgow, Glasgow, Scotland, UK
| | - Elka Kyurkchieva
- College of Medical, Veterinary and Life Sciences, University of Glasgow, Glasgow, Scotland, UK
| | - Nattaporn Phanthaphol
- Siriraj Centre of Research Excellence for Cancer Immunotherapy, Faculty of Medicine, Siriraj Hospital, Mahidol University, Bangkok, Thailand
| | - Thomas Mcskimming
- College of Medical, Veterinary and Life Sciences, University of Glasgow, Glasgow, Scotland, UK
| | - Katharine Herbert
- Wolfson Wohl Cancer Research Centre, Institute of Cancer Sciences, University of Glasgow, Glasgow, Scotland, UK
| | - Selma Rebus
- Wolfson Wohl Cancer Research Centre, Institute of Cancer Sciences, University of Glasgow, Glasgow, Scotland, UK
| | - Andrew V Biankin
- Wolfson Wohl Cancer Research Centre, Institute of Cancer Sciences, University of Glasgow, Glasgow, Scotland, UK
| | - David K Chang
- Wolfson Wohl Cancer Research Centre, Institute of Cancer Sciences, University of Glasgow, Glasgow, Scotland, UK
| | - George S Baillie
- College of Medical, Veterinary and Life Sciences, University of Glasgow, Glasgow, Scotland, UK
| | - Connor M Blair
- College of Medical, Veterinary and Life Sciences, University of Glasgow, Glasgow, Scotland, UK.
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28
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Clayton J, Romany A, Matenoglou E, Gavathiotis E, Poulikakos PI, Shen J. Mechanism of Dimer Selectivity and Binding Cooperativity of BRAF Inhibitors. BIORXIV : THE PREPRINT SERVER FOR BIOLOGY 2024:2023.12.12.571293. [PMID: 38168366 PMCID: PMC10760002 DOI: 10.1101/2023.12.12.571293] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/05/2024]
Abstract
Aberrant signaling of BRAFV600E is a major cancer driver. Current FDA-approved RAF inhibitors selectively inhibit the monomeric BRAFV600E and suffer from tumor resistance. Recently, dimer-selective and equipotent RAF inhibitors have been developed; however, the mechanism of dimer selectivity is poorly understood. Here, we report extensive molecular dynamics (MD) simulations of the monomeric and dimeric BRAFV600E in the apo form or in complex with one or two dimer-selective (PHI1) or equipotent (LY3009120) inhibitor(s). The simulations uncovered the unprecedented details of the remarkable allostery in BRAFV600E dimerization and inhibitor binding. Specifically, dimerization retrains and shifts the αC helix inward and increases the flexibility of the DFG motif; dimer compatibility is due to the promotion of the αC-in conformation, which is stabilized by a hydrogen bond formation between the inhibitor and the αC Glu501. A more stable hydrogen bond further restrains and shifts the αC helix inward, which incurs a larger entropic penalty that disfavors monomer binding. This mechanism led us to propose an empirical way based on the co-crystal structure to assess the dimer selectivity of a BRAFV600E inhibitor. Simulations also revealed that the positive cooperativity of PHI1 is due to its ability to preorganize the αC and DFG conformation in the opposite protomer, priming it for binding the second inhibitor. The atomically detailed view of the interplay between BRAF dimerization and inhibitor allostery as well as cooperativity has implications for understanding kinase signaling and contributes to the design of protomer selective RAF inhibitors.
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Affiliation(s)
- Joseph Clayton
- Department of Pharmaceutical Sciences, University of Maryland School of Pharmacy, Baltimore, MD 21201, United States
- Division of Applied Regulatory Science, Office of Clinical Pharmacology, Office of Translational Sciences, Center for Drug Evaluation and Research, United States Food and Drug Administration, Silver Spring, MD 20993, United States
| | - Aarion Romany
- Department of Pharmaceutical Sciences, University of Maryland School of Pharmacy, Baltimore, MD 21201, United States
| | - Evangelia Matenoglou
- Department of Biochemistry, Department of Medicine, Department of Oncology, Montefiore Einstein Comprehensive Cancer Center, Albert Einstein College of Medicine, New York, NY 10461, United States
| | - Evripidis Gavathiotis
- Department of Biochemistry, Department of Medicine, Department of Oncology, Montefiore Einstein Comprehensive Cancer Center, Albert Einstein College of Medicine, New York, NY 10461, United States
| | - Poulikos I Poulikakos
- Department of Oncological Sciences, Icahn School of Medicine at Mount Sinai, New York, NY 10029, United States
| | - Jana Shen
- Department of Pharmaceutical Sciences, University of Maryland School of Pharmacy, Baltimore, MD 21201, United States
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29
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Planchard D, Sanborn RE, Negrao MV, Vaishnavi A, Smit EF. BRAF V600E-mutant metastatic NSCLC: disease overview and treatment landscape. NPJ Precis Oncol 2024; 8:90. [PMID: 38627602 PMCID: PMC11021522 DOI: 10.1038/s41698-024-00552-7] [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: 10/06/2023] [Accepted: 02/15/2024] [Indexed: 04/19/2024] Open
Abstract
In this review, we cover the current understanding of BRAF mutations and associated clinical characteristics in patients with metastatic NSCLC, approved and emerging treatment options, BRAF sequencing approaches, and unmet needs. The BRAFV600E mutation confers constitutive activity of the MAPK pathway, leading to enhanced growth, proliferation, and survival of tumor cells. Testing for BRAF mutations enables patients to be treated with therapies that directly target BRAFV600E and the MAPK pathway, but BRAF testing lags behind other oncogene testing in metastatic NSCLC. Additional therapies targeting BRAFV600E mutations provide options for patients with metastatic NSCLC. Emerging therapies and combinations under investigation could potentially overcome issues of resistance and target non-V600E mutations. Therefore, because targeted therapies with enhanced efficacy are on the horizon, being able to identify BRAF mutations in metastatic NSCLC may become even more important.
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Affiliation(s)
- David Planchard
- Thoracic Cancer Group, Department of Medical Oncology, Gustave Roussy, Villejuif, France.
| | - Rachel E Sanborn
- Earle A. Chiles Research Institute, Providence Cancer Institute, Portland, OR, USA
| | - Marcelo V Negrao
- Department of Thoracic/Head and Neck Medical Oncology, Division of Cancer Medicine, University of Texas MD Anderson Cancer Center, Houston, TX, USA
| | - Aria Vaishnavi
- Department of Cancer Biology, University of Texas MD Anderson Cancer Center, Houston, TX, USA
| | - Egbert F Smit
- Department of Pulmonary Disease, Leiden University Medical Centre, Leiden, Netherlands
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30
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Dedden D, Nitsche J, Schneider EV, Thomsen M, Schwarz D, Leuthner B, Grädler U. Cryo-EM Structures of CRAF 2/14-3-3 2 and CRAF 2/14-3-3 2/MEK1 2 Complexes. J Mol Biol 2024; 436:168483. [PMID: 38331211 DOI: 10.1016/j.jmb.2024.168483] [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: 09/15/2023] [Revised: 12/22/2023] [Accepted: 02/02/2024] [Indexed: 02/10/2024]
Abstract
RAF protein kinases are essential effectors in the MAPK pathway and are important cancer drug targets. Structural understanding of RAF activation is so far based on cryo-electron microscopy (cryo-EM) and X-ray structures of BRAF in different conformational states as inactive or active complexes with KRAS, 14-3-3 and MEK1. In this study, we have solved the first cryo-EM structures of CRAF2/14-3-32 at 3.4 Å resolution and CRAF2/14-3-32/MEK12 at 4.2 Å resolution using CRAF kinase domain expressed as constitutively active Y340D/Y341D mutant in insect cells. The overall architecture of our CRAF2/14-3-32 and CRAF2/14-3-32/MEK12 cryo-EM structures is highly similar to corresponding BRAF structures in complex with 14-3-3 or 14-3-3/MEK1 and represent the activated dimeric RAF conformation. Our CRAF cryo-EM structures provide additional insights into structural understanding of the activated CRAF2/14-3-32/MEK12 complex.
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Affiliation(s)
- Dirk Dedden
- Proteros biostructures GmbH, Bunsenstraße 7a, D-82152 Planegg-Martinsried, Germany
| | - Julius Nitsche
- Proteros biostructures GmbH, Bunsenstraße 7a, D-82152 Planegg-Martinsried, Germany
| | | | - Maren Thomsen
- Proteros biostructures GmbH, Bunsenstraße 7a, D-82152 Planegg-Martinsried, Germany
| | - Daniel Schwarz
- The Healthcare Business of Merck KGaA, Frankfurter Str. 250, 64293 Darmstadt, Germany
| | - Birgitta Leuthner
- The Healthcare Business of Merck KGaA, Frankfurter Str. 250, 64293 Darmstadt, Germany
| | - Ulrich Grädler
- The Healthcare Business of Merck KGaA, Frankfurter Str. 250, 64293 Darmstadt, Germany.
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31
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Shanderson RL, Ferguson ID, Siprashvili Z, Ducoli L, Li AM, Miao W, Srinivasan S, Velasco MG, Li Y, Ye J, Khavari PA. Mitochondrial Raf1 Regulates Glutamine Catabolism. BIORXIV : THE PREPRINT SERVER FOR BIOLOGY 2024:2024.03.08.581297. [PMID: 38496616 PMCID: PMC10942467 DOI: 10.1101/2024.03.08.581297] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 03/19/2024]
Abstract
Raf kinases play vital roles in normal mitogenic signaling and cancer, however, the identities of functionally important Raf-proximal proteins throughout the cell are not fully known. Raf1 proximity proteomics/BioID in Raf1-dependent cancer cells unexpectedly identified Raf1-adjacent proteins known to reside in the mitochondrial matrix. Inner-mitochondrial localization of Raf1 was confirmed by mitochondrial purification and super-resolution microscopy. Inside mitochondria, Raf1 associated with glutaminase (GLS) in diverse human cancers and enabled glutaminolysis, an important source of biosynthetic precursors in cancer. These impacts required Raf1 kinase activity and were independent of canonical MAP kinase pathway signaling. Kinase-dead mitochondrial matrix-localized Raf1 impaired glutaminolysis and tumorigenesis in vivo. These data indicate that Raf1 localizes inside mitochondria where it interacts with GLS to engage glutamine catabolism and support tumorigenesis.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ronald L. Shanderson
- Program in Cancer Biology, Stanford University, Stanford, CA, 94305, USA
- Program in Epithelial Biology, Stanford University, Stanford, CA, 94305, USA
| | - Ian D. Ferguson
- Program in Cancer Biology, Stanford University, Stanford, CA, 94305, USA
- Program in Epithelial Biology, Stanford University, Stanford, CA, 94305, USA
| | - Zurab Siprashvili
- Program in Epithelial Biology, Stanford University, Stanford, CA, 94305, USA
| | - Luca Ducoli
- Program in Epithelial Biology, Stanford University, Stanford, CA, 94305, USA
| | - Albert M. Li
- Program in Cancer Biology, Stanford University, Stanford, CA, 94305, USA
- Department of Radiation Oncology, Stanford University, Stanford, CA, 94305, USA
| | - Weili Miao
- Program in Epithelial Biology, Stanford University, Stanford, CA, 94305, USA
| | - Suhas Srinivasan
- Program in Epithelial Biology, Stanford University, Stanford, CA, 94305, USA
| | | | - Yang Li
- Department of Radiation Oncology, Stanford University, Stanford, CA, 94305, USA
| | - Jiangbin Ye
- Program in Cancer Biology, Stanford University, Stanford, CA, 94305, USA
- Department of Radiation Oncology, Stanford University, Stanford, CA, 94305, USA
| | - Paul A. Khavari
- Program in Cancer Biology, Stanford University, Stanford, CA, 94305, USA
- Program in Epithelial Biology, Stanford University, Stanford, CA, 94305, USA
- Veterans Affairs Palo Alto Healthcare System, Palo Alto, CA, 94304, USA
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32
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Hanrahan AJ, Chen Z, Rosen N, Solit DB. BRAF - a tumour-agnostic drug target with lineage-specific dependencies. Nat Rev Clin Oncol 2024; 21:224-247. [PMID: 38278874 DOI: 10.1038/s41571-023-00852-0] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 12/12/2023] [Indexed: 01/28/2024]
Abstract
In June 2022, the FDA granted Accelerated Approval to the BRAF inhibitor dabrafenib in combination with the MEK inhibitor trametinib for the treatment of adult and paediatric patients (≥6 years of age) with unresectable or metastatic BRAFV600E-mutant solid tumours, except for BRAFV600E-mutant colorectal cancers. The histology-agnostic approval of dabrafenib plus trametinib marks the culmination of two decades of research into the landscape of BRAF mutations in human cancers, the biochemical mechanisms underlying BRAF-mediated tumorigenesis, and the clinical development of selective RAF and MEK inhibitors. Although the majority of patients with BRAFV600E-mutant tumours derive clinical benefit from BRAF inhibitor-based combinations, resistance to treatment develops in most. In this Review, we describe the biochemical basis for oncogenic BRAF-induced activation of MAPK signalling and pan-cancer and lineage-specific mechanisms of intrinsic, adaptive and acquired resistance to BRAF inhibitors. We also discuss novel RAF inhibitors and drug combinations designed to delay the emergence of treatment resistance and/or expand the population of patients with BRAF-mutant cancers who benefit from molecularly targeted therapies.
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Affiliation(s)
- Aphrothiti J Hanrahan
- Human Oncology and Pathogenesis Program, Memorial Sloan Kettering Cancer Center, New York, NY, USA
| | - Ziyu Chen
- Human Oncology and Pathogenesis Program, Memorial Sloan Kettering Cancer Center, New York, NY, USA
- Department of Physiology, Biophysics & Systems Biology, Weill Cornell Graduate School of Medical Sciences, Cornell University, New York, NY, USA
| | - Neal Rosen
- Molecular Pharmacology Program, Sloan Kettering Institute for Cancer Research, Memorial Sloan Kettering Cancer Center, New York, NY, USA
- Department of Medicine, Memorial Sloan Kettering Cancer Center, New York, NY, USA
- Weill Cornell Medical College, Cornell University, New York, NY, USA
| | - David B Solit
- Human Oncology and Pathogenesis Program, Memorial Sloan Kettering Cancer Center, New York, NY, USA.
- Department of Medicine, Memorial Sloan Kettering Cancer Center, New York, NY, USA.
- Weill Cornell Medical College, Cornell University, New York, NY, USA.
- Marie-Josée and Henry R. Kravis Center for Molecular Oncology, Memorial Sloan Kettering Cancer Center, New York, NY, USA.
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33
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Marsiglia WM, Chow A, Khan ZM, He L, Dar AC. Live-cell target engagement of allosteric MEKi on MEK-RAF/KSR-14-3-3 complexes. Nat Chem Biol 2024; 20:373-381. [PMID: 37919548 PMCID: PMC10948974 DOI: 10.1038/s41589-023-01454-8] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/30/2022] [Accepted: 09/19/2023] [Indexed: 11/04/2023]
Abstract
The RAS-mitogen-activated protein kinase (MAPK) pathway includes KSR, RAF, MEK and the phospho-regulatory sensor 14-3-3. Specific assemblies among these components drive various diseases and likely dictate efficacy for numerous targeted therapies, including allosteric MEK inhibitors (MEKi). However, directly measuring drug interactions on physiological RAS-MAPK complexes in live cells has been inherently challenging to query and therefore remains poorly understood. Here we present a series of NanoBRET-based assays to quantify direct target engagement of MEKi on MEK1 and higher-order MEK1-bound complexes with ARAF, BRAF, CRAF, KSR1 and KSR2 in the presence and absence of 14-3-3 in living cells. We find distinct MEKi preferences among these complexes that can be compiled to generate inhibitor binding profiles. Further, these assays can report on the influence of the pathogenic BRAF-V600E mutant on MEKi binding. Taken together, these approaches can be used as a platform to screen for compounds intended to target specific complexes in the RAS-MAPK cascade.
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Affiliation(s)
- William M Marsiglia
- Department of Oncological Sciences, The Tisch Cancer Institute, Mount Sinai Center for Therapeutic Discovery, Icahn School of Medicine at Mount Sinai, New York, NY, USA.
- Department of Pharmacological Sciences, The Tisch Cancer Institute, Mount Sinai Center for Therapeutic Discovery, Icahn School of Medicine at Mount Sinai, New York, NY, USA.
- Department of Pharmacology and Toxicology, The University of Alabama at Birmingham, Birmingham, AL, USA.
| | - Arthur Chow
- Department of Oncological Sciences, The Tisch Cancer Institute, Mount Sinai Center for Therapeutic Discovery, Icahn School of Medicine at Mount Sinai, New York, NY, USA
- Department of Pharmacological Sciences, The Tisch Cancer Institute, Mount Sinai Center for Therapeutic Discovery, Icahn School of Medicine at Mount Sinai, New York, NY, USA
- Program in Chemical Biology, Sloan Kettering Institute, Memorial Sloan Kettering Cancer Center, New York, NY, USA
| | - Zaigham M Khan
- Department of Oncological Sciences, The Tisch Cancer Institute, Mount Sinai Center for Therapeutic Discovery, Icahn School of Medicine at Mount Sinai, New York, NY, USA
- Department of Pharmacological Sciences, The Tisch Cancer Institute, Mount Sinai Center for Therapeutic Discovery, Icahn School of Medicine at Mount Sinai, New York, NY, USA
| | - Liu He
- Department of Oncological Sciences, The Tisch Cancer Institute, Mount Sinai Center for Therapeutic Discovery, Icahn School of Medicine at Mount Sinai, New York, NY, USA
- Department of Pharmacological Sciences, The Tisch Cancer Institute, Mount Sinai Center for Therapeutic Discovery, Icahn School of Medicine at Mount Sinai, New York, NY, USA
- Program in Chemical Biology, Sloan Kettering Institute, Memorial Sloan Kettering Cancer Center, New York, NY, USA
| | - Arvin C Dar
- Department of Oncological Sciences, The Tisch Cancer Institute, Mount Sinai Center for Therapeutic Discovery, Icahn School of Medicine at Mount Sinai, New York, NY, USA.
- Department of Pharmacological Sciences, The Tisch Cancer Institute, Mount Sinai Center for Therapeutic Discovery, Icahn School of Medicine at Mount Sinai, New York, NY, USA.
- Program in Chemical Biology, Sloan Kettering Institute, Memorial Sloan Kettering Cancer Center, New York, NY, USA.
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Lu X, Jin J, Wu Y, Liu X, Liang X, Lin J, Sun Q, Qin J, Zhang W, Luan X. Progress in RAS-targeted therapeutic strategies: From small molecule inhibitors to proteolysis targeting chimeras. Med Res Rev 2024; 44:812-832. [PMID: 38009264 DOI: 10.1002/med.21993] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/18/2022] [Revised: 04/14/2023] [Accepted: 10/29/2023] [Indexed: 11/28/2023]
Abstract
As a widely considerable target in chemical biology and pharmacological research, rat sarcoma (RAS) gene mutations play a critical driving factor in several fatal cancers. Despite the great progress of RAS subtype-specific inhibitors, rapid acquired drug resistance could limit their further clinical applications. Proteolysis targeting chimera (PROTAC) has emerged as a powerful tool to handle "undruggable" targets and exhibited significant therapeutic benefit for the combat of drug resistance. Owing to unique molecular mechanism and binding kinetics, PROTAC is expected to become a feasible strategy to break the bottleneck of classical RAS inhibitors. This review aims to discuss the current advances of RAS inhibitors and especially focus on PROTAC strategy targeting RAS mutations and their downstream effectors for relevant cancer treatment.
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Affiliation(s)
- Xinchen Lu
- Shanghai Frontiers Science Center for Chinese Medicine Chemical Biology, Institute of Interdisciplinary Integrative Medicine Research, Shanghai University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Shanghai, China
- Department of Pharmacology, School of Pharmacy, Fudan University, Shanghai, China
- State Key Laboratory of New Drug and Pharmaceutical Process, Shanghai Institute of Pharmaceutical Industry, China State Institute of Pharmaceutical Industry, Shanghai, China
| | - Jinmei Jin
- Shanghai Frontiers Science Center for Chinese Medicine Chemical Biology, Institute of Interdisciplinary Integrative Medicine Research, Shanghai University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Shanghai, China
| | - Ye Wu
- Shanghai Frontiers Science Center for Chinese Medicine Chemical Biology, Institute of Interdisciplinary Integrative Medicine Research, Shanghai University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Shanghai, China
| | - Xiaoxia Liu
- Shanghai Frontiers Science Center for Chinese Medicine Chemical Biology, Institute of Interdisciplinary Integrative Medicine Research, Shanghai University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Shanghai, China
| | - Xiaohui Liang
- Shanghai Frontiers Science Center for Chinese Medicine Chemical Biology, Institute of Interdisciplinary Integrative Medicine Research, Shanghai University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Shanghai, China
| | - Jiayi Lin
- Shanghai Frontiers Science Center for Chinese Medicine Chemical Biology, Institute of Interdisciplinary Integrative Medicine Research, Shanghai University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Shanghai, China
| | - Qingyan Sun
- State Key Laboratory of New Drug and Pharmaceutical Process, Shanghai Institute of Pharmaceutical Industry, China State Institute of Pharmaceutical Industry, Shanghai, China
| | - Jiangjiang Qin
- The Cancer Hospital of the University of Chinese Academy of Sciences (Zhejiang Cancer Hospital), Institute of Basic Medicine and Cancer (IBMC), Chinese Academy of Sciences, Hangzhou, Zhejiang, China
| | - Weidong Zhang
- Shanghai Frontiers Science Center for Chinese Medicine Chemical Biology, Institute of Interdisciplinary Integrative Medicine Research, Shanghai University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Shanghai, China
- State Key Laboratory of New Drug and Pharmaceutical Process, Shanghai Institute of Pharmaceutical Industry, China State Institute of Pharmaceutical Industry, Shanghai, China
| | - Xin Luan
- Shanghai Frontiers Science Center for Chinese Medicine Chemical Biology, Institute of Interdisciplinary Integrative Medicine Research, Shanghai University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Shanghai, China
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Riley MJ, Mitchell CC, Ernst SE, Taylor EB, Welsh MJ. A model for stimulation of enzyme activity by a competitive inhibitor based on the interaction of terazosin and phosphoglycerate kinase 1. Proc Natl Acad Sci U S A 2024; 121:e2318956121. [PMID: 38377207 PMCID: PMC10907273 DOI: 10.1073/pnas.2318956121] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/30/2023] [Accepted: 01/21/2024] [Indexed: 02/22/2024] Open
Abstract
The drug terazosin (TZ) binds to and can enhance the activity of the glycolytic enzyme phosphoglycerate kinase 1 (PGK1) and can increase ATP levels. That finding prompted studies of TZ in Parkinson's disease (PD) in which decreased neuronal energy metabolism is a hallmark feature. TZ was neuroprotective in cell-based and animal PD models and in large epidemiological studies of humans. However, how TZ might increase PGK1 activity has remained a perplexing question because structural data revealed that the site of TZ binding to PGK1 overlaps with the site of substrate binding, predicting that TZ would competitively inhibit activity. Functional data also indicate that TZ is a competitive inhibitor. To explore the paradoxical observation of a competitive inhibitor increasing enzyme activity under some conditions, we developed a mass action model of TZ and PGK1 interactions using published data on PGK1 kinetics and the effect of varying TZ concentrations. The model indicated that TZ-binding introduces a bypass pathway that accelerates product release. At low concentrations, TZ binding circumvents slow product release and increases the rate of enzymatic phosphotransfer. However, at high concentrations, TZ inhibits PGK1 activity. The model explains stimulation of enzyme activity by a competitive inhibitor and the biphasic dose-response relationship for TZ and PGK1 activity. By providing a plausible mechanism for interactions between TZ and PGK1, these findings may aid development of TZ or other agents as potential therapeutics for neurodegenerative diseases. The results may also have implications for agents that interact with the active site of other enzymes.
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Affiliation(s)
- Mitchell J. Riley
- Department of Mathematics, University of Iowa, Iowa City, IA52242
- Department of Internal Medicine, Pappajohn Biomedical Institute, Roy J. and Lucille A. Carver College of Medicine, University of Iowa, Iowa City, IA52242
| | | | - Sarah E. Ernst
- Department of Internal Medicine, Pappajohn Biomedical Institute, Roy J. and Lucille A. Carver College of Medicine, University of Iowa, Iowa City, IA52242
- HHMI, University of Iowa, Iowa City, IA52242
| | - Eric B. Taylor
- Department of Molecular Physiology and Biophysics, Pappajohn Biomedical Institute, Roy J. and Lucille A. Carver College of Medicine, University of Iowa, Iowa City, IA52242
| | - Michael J. Welsh
- Department of Internal Medicine, Pappajohn Biomedical Institute, Roy J. and Lucille A. Carver College of Medicine, University of Iowa, Iowa City, IA52242
- HHMI, University of Iowa, Iowa City, IA52242
- Department of Molecular Physiology and Biophysics, Pappajohn Biomedical Institute, Roy J. and Lucille A. Carver College of Medicine, University of Iowa, Iowa City, IA52242
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Chen YK, Kanouni T, Arnold LD, Cox JM, Gardiner E, Grandinetti K, Jiang P, Kaldor SW, Lee C, Li C, Martin ES, Miller N, Murphy EA, Timple N, Tyhonas JS, Vassar A, Wang TS, Williams R, Yuan D, Kania RS. The Discovery of Exarafenib (KIN-2787): Overcoming the Challenges of Pan-RAF Kinase Inhibition. J Med Chem 2024; 67:1747-1757. [PMID: 38230963 DOI: 10.1021/acs.jmedchem.3c01830] [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: 01/18/2024]
Abstract
RAF, a core signaling component of the MAPK kinase cascade, is often mutated in various cancers, including melanoma, lung, and colorectal cancers. The approved inhibitors were focused on targeting the BRAFV600E mutation that results in constitutive activation of kinase signaling through the monomeric protein (Class I). However, these inhibitors also paradoxically activate kinase signaling of RAF dimers, resulting in increased MAPK signaling in normal tissues. Recently, significant attention has turned to targeting RAF alterations that activate dimeric signaling (class II and III BRAF and NRAS). However, the discovery of a potent and selective inhibitor with biopharmaceutical properties suitable to sustain robust target inhibition in the clinical setting has proven challenging. Herein, we report the discovery of exarafenib (15), a highly potent and selective inhibitor that intercepts the RAF protein in the dimer compatible αC-helix-IN conformation and demonstrates anti-tumor efficacy in preclinical models with BRAF class I, II, and III and NRAS alterations.
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Affiliation(s)
- Young K Chen
- Kinnate Biopharma, 12830 El Camino Real, Suite 150, San Diego, California 92130, United States
| | - Toufike Kanouni
- Kinnate Biopharma, 12830 El Camino Real, Suite 150, San Diego, California 92130, United States
| | - Lee D Arnold
- Kinnate Biopharma, 12830 El Camino Real, Suite 150, San Diego, California 92130, United States
| | - Jason M Cox
- Kinnate Biopharma, 12830 El Camino Real, Suite 150, San Diego, California 92130, United States
| | - Elisabeth Gardiner
- Kinnate Biopharma, 12830 El Camino Real, Suite 150, San Diego, California 92130, United States
| | - Kathryn Grandinetti
- Kinnate Biopharma, 12830 El Camino Real, Suite 150, San Diego, California 92130, United States
| | - Ping Jiang
- Kinnate Biopharma, 12830 El Camino Real, Suite 150, San Diego, California 92130, United States
| | - Stephen W Kaldor
- Kinnate Biopharma, 12830 El Camino Real, Suite 150, San Diego, California 92130, United States
| | - Catherine Lee
- Kinnate Biopharma, 12830 El Camino Real, Suite 150, San Diego, California 92130, United States
| | - Chun Li
- Kinnate Biopharma, 12830 El Camino Real, Suite 150, San Diego, California 92130, United States
| | - Eric S Martin
- Kinnate Biopharma, 12830 El Camino Real, Suite 150, San Diego, California 92130, United States
| | - Nichol Miller
- Kinnate Biopharma, 12830 El Camino Real, Suite 150, San Diego, California 92130, United States
| | - Eric A Murphy
- Kinnate Biopharma, 12830 El Camino Real, Suite 150, San Diego, California 92130, United States
| | - Noel Timple
- Kinnate Biopharma, 12830 El Camino Real, Suite 150, San Diego, California 92130, United States
| | - John S Tyhonas
- Kinnate Biopharma, 12830 El Camino Real, Suite 150, San Diego, California 92130, United States
| | - Angie Vassar
- Kinnate Biopharma, 12830 El Camino Real, Suite 150, San Diego, California 92130, United States
| | - Tim S Wang
- Kinnate Biopharma, 12830 El Camino Real, Suite 150, San Diego, California 92130, United States
| | - Richard Williams
- Kinnate Biopharma, 12830 El Camino Real, Suite 150, San Diego, California 92130, United States
| | - Ding Yuan
- Kinnate Biopharma, 12830 El Camino Real, Suite 150, San Diego, California 92130, United States
| | - Robert S Kania
- Kinnate Biopharma, 12830 El Camino Real, Suite 150, San Diego, California 92130, United States
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Gao Y, Packeiser EM, Wendt S, Sekora A, Cavalleri JMV, Pratscher B, Alammar M, Hühns M, Brenig B, Junghanss C, Nolte I, Murua Escobar H. Cross-Species Comparison of the Pan-RAF Inhibitor LY3009120's Anti-Tumor Effects in Equine, Canine, and Human Malignant Melanoma Cell Lines. Genes (Basel) 2024; 15:202. [PMID: 38397192 PMCID: PMC10887541 DOI: 10.3390/genes15020202] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/20/2023] [Revised: 01/29/2024] [Accepted: 01/30/2024] [Indexed: 02/25/2024] Open
Abstract
Malignant melanomas (MMs) are the abnormal proliferation of melanocytes and are one of the lethal skin cancers in humans, equines, and canines. Accordingly, MMs in companion animals can serve as naturally occurring animal models, completing conventional cancer models. The common constitutive activation of the MAPK and PI3K pathways in MMs has been described in all three species. Targeting the related pathways is considered a potential option in comparative oncologic approaches. Herein, we present a cross-species comparative analysis exposing a set of ten melanoma cell lines (one human, three equine, and six canine) derived from primary tumors or metastasis to a pan-RAF and RAF dimer inhibitor (LY3009120). Cellular response (proliferation, biomass, metabolism, early and late apoptosis/necrosis, and morphology) and the presence of pathogenic single-nucleotide variants (SNVs) within the mutational hotspot genes BRAF exon 11 and 15, NRAS exon 2 and 3, KRAS exon 2, and KIT exon 11 were analyzed. This study showed that equine malignant melanoma (EMM) cells (MelDuWi) harbor the KRAS p.Q61H mutation, while canine malignant melanoma (CMM) cells (cRGO1 and cRGO1.2) carry NRAS p.G13R. Except for EMM metastasis cells eRGO6 (wild type of the above-mentioned hotspot genes), all melanoma cell lines exhibited a decrease in dose dependence after 48 and 72 h of exposure to LY3009120, independent of the mutation hotspot landscape. Furthermore, LY3009120 caused significant early apoptosis and late apoptosis/necrosis in all melanoma cell lines except for eRGO6. The anti-tumor effects of LY3009120 were observed in nine melanoma cell lines, indicating the potential feasibility of experimental trials with LY3009120. The present study reveals that the irradiation-resistant canine metastasis cells (cRGO1.2) harboring the NRAS p.G13R mutation are significantly LY3009120-sensitive, while the equine metastases-derived eRGO6 cells show significant resistance to LY3009120, which make them both valuable tools for studying resistance mechanisms in comparative oncology.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yu Gao
- Department of Small Animal Medicine and Surgery, University of Veterinary Medicine Hannover, Foundation, 30559 Hannover, Germany
- Department of Medicine, Clinic III, Hematology, Oncology and Palliative Medicine, University Medical Center Rostock, 18057 Rostock, Germany
| | - Eva-Maria Packeiser
- Department of Small Animal Medicine and Surgery, University of Veterinary Medicine Hannover, Foundation, 30559 Hannover, Germany
| | - Sophia Wendt
- Department of Medicine, Clinic III, Hematology, Oncology and Palliative Medicine, University Medical Center Rostock, 18057 Rostock, Germany
| | - Anett Sekora
- Department of Medicine, Clinic III, Hematology, Oncology and Palliative Medicine, University Medical Center Rostock, 18057 Rostock, Germany
| | - Jessika-Maximiliane V. Cavalleri
- Clinical Unit of Equine Internal Medicine, Department for Companion Animals and Horses, University of Veterinary Medicine Vienna, 1210 Vienna, Austria
| | - Barbara Pratscher
- Clinical Unit of Equine Internal Medicine, Department for Companion Animals and Horses, University of Veterinary Medicine Vienna, 1210 Vienna, Austria
- Clinical Unit of Small Animal Internal Medicine, Department for Companion Animals and Horses, University of Veterinary Medicine Vienna, 1210 Vienna, Austria
| | - Moosheer Alammar
- Department of Medicine, Clinic III, Hematology, Oncology and Palliative Medicine, University Medical Center Rostock, 18057 Rostock, Germany
| | - Maja Hühns
- Institute of Pathology, University Medicine of Rostock, Strempelstrasse, 18055 Rostock, Germany
| | - Bertram Brenig
- Institute of Veterinary Medicine, Division of Molecular Biology of Livestock and Molecular Diagnostics, Georg-August-University of Göttingen, 37077 Göttingen, Germany
| | - Christian Junghanss
- Department of Medicine, Clinic III, Hematology, Oncology and Palliative Medicine, University Medical Center Rostock, 18057 Rostock, Germany
| | - Ingo Nolte
- Department of Small Animal Medicine and Surgery, University of Veterinary Medicine Hannover, Foundation, 30559 Hannover, Germany
| | - Hugo Murua Escobar
- Department of Medicine, Clinic III, Hematology, Oncology and Palliative Medicine, University Medical Center Rostock, 18057 Rostock, Germany
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Theerawatanasirikul S, Lueangaramkul V, Semkum P, Lekcharoensuk P. Antiviral mechanisms of sorafenib against foot-and-mouth disease virus via c-RAF and AKT/PI3K pathways. Vet Res Commun 2024; 48:329-343. [PMID: 37697209 DOI: 10.1007/s11259-023-10211-0] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/01/2023] [Accepted: 08/28/2023] [Indexed: 09/13/2023]
Abstract
Foot-and-mouth disease virus (FMDV) is a highly contagious pathogen that poses a significant threat to the global livestock industry. However, specific antiviral treatments against FMDV are currently unavailable. This study aimed to evaluate the antiviral activity of anticancer drugs, including kinase and non-kinase inhibitors against FMDV replication in BHK-21 cells. Sorafenib, a multi-kinase inhibitor, demonstrated a significant dose-dependent reduction in FMDV replication. It exhibited a half maximal effective concentration (EC50) value of 2.46 µM at the pre-viral entry stage and 2.03 µM at the post-viral entry stage. Further intracellular assays revealed that sorafenib effectively decreased 3Dpol activity with a half maximal inhibitory concentration (IC50) of 155 nM, while not affecting 3Cpro function. The study indicates that sorafenib influences host protein pathways during FMDV infection, primarily by potentiating the c-RAF canonical pathway and AKT/PI3K pathway. Molecular docking analysis demonstrated specific binding of sorafenib to the active site of FMDV 3Dpol, interacting with crucial catalytic residues, including D245, D338, S298, and N307. Additionally, sorafenib exhibited significant binding affinity to the active site motifs of cellular kinases, namely c-RAF, AKT, and PI3K, which play critical roles in the viral life cycle. The findings suggest that sorafenib holds promise as a therapeutic agent against FMDV infection. Its mechanism of action may involve inhibiting FMDV replication by reducing 3Dpol activity and regulating cellular kinases. This study provides insights for the development of novel therapeutic strategies to combat FMDV infections.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sirin Theerawatanasirikul
- Department of Anatomy, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, Kasetsart University, Bangkok, 10900, Thailand.
| | - Varanya Lueangaramkul
- Department of Microbiology and Immunology, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, Kasetsart University, Bangkok, 10900, Thailand
| | - Ploypailin Semkum
- Department of Microbiology and Immunology, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, Kasetsart University, Bangkok, 10900, Thailand
- Center of Advanced Studies in Agriculture and Food, Kasetsart University, Bangkok, 10900, Thailand
| | - Porntippa Lekcharoensuk
- Department of Microbiology and Immunology, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, Kasetsart University, Bangkok, 10900, Thailand.
- Center of Advanced Studies in Agriculture and Food, Kasetsart University, Bangkok, 10900, Thailand.
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Raj AK, Lokhande KB, Prasad TK, Nandangiri R, Choudhary S, Pal JK, Sharma NK. Intracellular Ellagic Acid Derived from Goat Urine DMSO Fraction (GUDF) Predicted as an Inhibitor of c-Raf Kinase. Curr Mol Med 2024; 24:264-279. [PMID: 36642883 DOI: 10.2174/1566524023666230113141032] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/02/2022] [Revised: 11/12/2022] [Accepted: 11/22/2022] [Indexed: 01/17/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Dietary chemicals and their gut-metabolized products are explored for their anti-proliferative and pro-cell death effects. Dietary and metabolized chemicals are different from ruminants such as goats over humans. METHODS Loss of cell viability and induction of death due to goat urine DMSO fraction (GUDF) derived chemicals were assessed by routine in vitro assays upon MCF-7 breast cancer cells. Intracellular metabolite profiling of MCF-7 cells treated with goat urine DMSO fraction (GUDF) was performed using an in-house designed vertical tube gel electrophoresis (VTGE) assisted methodology, followed by LC-HRMS. Next, identified intracellular dietary chemicals such as ellagic acid were evaluated for their inhibitory effects against transducers of the c-Raf signaling pathway employing molecular docking and molecular dynamics (MD) simulation. RESULTS GUDF treatment upon MCF-7 cells displayed significant loss of cell viability and induction of cell death. A set of dietary and metabolized chemicals in the intracellular compartment of MCF-7 cells, such as ellagic acid, 2-hydroxymyristic acid, artelinic acid, 10-amino-decanoic acid, nervonic acid, 2,4-dimethyl-2-eicosenoic acid, 2,3,4'- Trihydroxy,4-Methoxybenzophenone and 9-amino-nonanoic acid were identified. Among intracellular dietary chemicals, ellagic acid displayed a strong inhibitory affinity (-8.7 kcal/mol) against c-Raf kinase. The inhibitory potential of ellagic acid was found to be significantly comparable with a known c-Raf kinase inhibitor sorafenib with overlapping inhibitory site residues (ARG450, GLU425, TRP423, VA403). CONCLUSION Intracellular dietary-derived chemicals such as ellagic acid are suggested for the induction of cell death in MCF-7 cells. Ellagic acid is predicted as an inhibitor of c-Raf kinase and could be explored as an anti-cancer drug.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ajay Kumar Raj
- Cancer and Translational Research Lab, Dr. D.Y. Patil Biotechnology & Bioinformatics Institute, Dr. D.Y. Patil Vidyapeeth, Pimpri, Pune, Maharashtra, 411033, India
| | - Kiran Bharat Lokhande
- Bioinformatics Research Laboratory, Dr. D. Y. Patil Biotechnology and Bioinformatics Institute, Dr. D. Y. Patil Vidyapeeth, Pimpri, Pune, Maharashtra, 411033, India
| | - Tanay Kondapally Prasad
- Cancer and Translational Research Lab, Dr. D.Y. Patil Biotechnology & Bioinformatics Institute, Dr. D.Y. Patil Vidyapeeth, Pimpri, Pune, Maharashtra, 411033, India
| | - Rasika Nandangiri
- Cancer and Translational Research Lab, Dr. D.Y. Patil Biotechnology & Bioinformatics Institute, Dr. D.Y. Patil Vidyapeeth, Pimpri, Pune, Maharashtra, 411033, India
| | - Sumitra Choudhary
- Cancer and Translational Research Lab, Dr. D.Y. Patil Biotechnology & Bioinformatics Institute, Dr. D.Y. Patil Vidyapeeth, Pimpri, Pune, Maharashtra, 411033, India
| | - Jayanta Kumar Pal
- Cancer and Translational Research Lab, Dr. D.Y. Patil Biotechnology & Bioinformatics Institute, Dr. D.Y. Patil Vidyapeeth, Pimpri, Pune, Maharashtra, 411033, India
| | - Nilesh Kumar Sharma
- Cancer and Translational Research Lab, Dr. D.Y. Patil Biotechnology & Bioinformatics Institute, Dr. D.Y. Patil Vidyapeeth, Pimpri, Pune, Maharashtra, 411033, India
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Trebino TE, Markusic B, Nan H, Banerjee S, Wang Z. Unveiling the domain-specific and RAS isoform-specific details of BRAF kinase regulation. eLife 2023; 12:RP88836. [PMID: 38150000 PMCID: PMC10752582 DOI: 10.7554/elife.88836] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/28/2023] Open
Abstract
BRAF is a key member in the MAPK signaling pathway essential for cell growth, proliferation, and differentiation. Mutant BRAF is often the underlying cause of various types of cancer and mutant RAS, the upstream regulator of BRAF, is a driver of up to one-third of all cancers. BRAF interacts with RAS and undergoes a conformational change from an inactive, autoinhibited monomer to an active dimer, which propagates downstream signaling. Because of BRAF's complex regulation mechanism, the exact order and magnitude of its activation steps have yet to be confirmed experimentally. By studying the inter- and intramolecular interactions of BRAF, we unveil the domain-specific and isoform-specific details of BRAF regulation through pulldown assays, open surface plasmon resonance (OpenSPR), and hydrogen-deuterium exchange mass spectrometry (HDX-MS). We demonstrate that the BRAF specific region (BSR) and cysteine rich domain (CRD) play a crucial role in regulating the activation of BRAF in a RAS isoform-specific manner. Moreover, we quantified the binding affinities between BRAF N-terminal and kinase domains (KD) to reveal their individual roles in autoinhibition. Our findings also indicate that oncogenic BRAF-KDD594G mutant has a lower affinity for the N-terminal domains, implicating that pathogenic BRAF acts through decreased propensity for autoinhibition. Collectively, our study provides valuable insight into the activation mechanism of BRAF kinase to guide the development of new therapeutic strategies for cancer treatment.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Borna Markusic
- Rowan UniversityGlassboroUnited States
- Max Planck Institute of BiophysicsFrankfurt am MainGermany
| | - Haihan Nan
- Rowan UniversityGlassboroUnited States
- School of Laboratory Medicine and Life Science, Wenzhou Medical UniversityWenzhouChina
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41
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Wang P, Laster K, Jia X, Dong Z, Liu K. Targeting CRAF kinase in anti-cancer therapy: progress and opportunities. Mol Cancer 2023; 22:208. [PMID: 38111008 PMCID: PMC10726672 DOI: 10.1186/s12943-023-01903-x] [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: 08/31/2023] [Accepted: 11/16/2023] [Indexed: 12/20/2023] Open
Abstract
The RAS/mitogen-activated protein kinase (MAPK) signaling cascade is commonly dysregulated in human malignancies by processes driven by RAS or RAF oncogenes. Among the members of the RAF kinase family, CRAF plays an important role in the RAS-MAPK signaling pathway, as well as in the progression of cancer. Recent research has provided evidence implicating the role of CRAF in the physiological regulation and the resistance to BRAF inhibitors through MAPK-dependent and MAPK-independent mechanisms. Nevertheless, the effectiveness of solely targeting CRAF kinase activity remains controversial. Moreover, the kinase-independent function of CRAF may be essential for lung cancers with KRAS mutations. It is imperative to develop strategies to enhance efficacy and minimize toxicity in tumors driven by RAS or RAF oncogenes. The review investigates CRAF alterations observed in cancers and unravels the distinct roles of CRAF in cancers propelled by diverse oncogenes. This review also seeks to summarize CRAF-interacting proteins and delineate CRAF's regulation across various cancer hallmarks. Additionally, we discuss recent advances in pan-RAF inhibitors and their combination with other therapeutic approaches to improve treatment outcomes and minimize adverse effects in patients with RAF/RAS-mutant tumors. By providing a comprehensive understanding of the multifaceted role of CRAF in cancers and highlighting the latest developments in RAF inhibitor therapies, we endeavor to identify synergistic targets and elucidate resistance pathways, setting the stage for more robust and safer combination strategies for cancer treatment.
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Affiliation(s)
- Penglei Wang
- Department of Pathophysiology, School of Basic Medical Sciences, Zhengzhou University, Zhengzhou, 450000, China
- Tianjian Laboratory for Advanced Biomedical Sciences, Zhengzhou, 450052, Henan, China
- China-US (Henan) Hormel Cancer Institute, Zhengzhou, 450000, China
| | - Kyle Laster
- China-US (Henan) Hormel Cancer Institute, Zhengzhou, 450000, China
| | - Xuechao Jia
- Department of Pathophysiology, School of Basic Medical Sciences, Zhengzhou University, Zhengzhou, 450000, China
- Tianjian Laboratory for Advanced Biomedical Sciences, Zhengzhou, 450052, Henan, China
- China-US (Henan) Hormel Cancer Institute, Zhengzhou, 450000, China
| | - Zigang Dong
- Department of Pathophysiology, School of Basic Medical Sciences, Zhengzhou University, Zhengzhou, 450000, China.
- Tianjian Laboratory for Advanced Biomedical Sciences, Zhengzhou, 450052, Henan, China.
- China-US (Henan) Hormel Cancer Institute, Zhengzhou, 450000, China.
- Department of Pathophysiology, School of Basic Medical Sciences, China-US (Henan) Hormel Cancer Institute, AMS, College of Medicine, Zhengzhou University, 100 Kexue Avenue, Zhengzhou, 450001, Henan, China.
| | - Kangdong Liu
- Department of Pathophysiology, School of Basic Medical Sciences, Zhengzhou University, Zhengzhou, 450000, China.
- Tianjian Laboratory for Advanced Biomedical Sciences, Zhengzhou, 450052, Henan, China.
- China-US (Henan) Hormel Cancer Institute, Zhengzhou, 450000, China.
- Department of Pathophysiology, School of Basic Medical Sciences, China-US (Henan) Hormel Cancer Institute, AMS, College of Medicine, Zhengzhou University, 100 Kexue Avenue, Zhengzhou, 450001, Henan, China.
- Basic Medicine Sciences Research Center, Academy of Medical Sciences, Zhengzhou University, Zhengzhou, 450052, Henan, China.
- State Key Laboratory of Esophageal Cancer Prevention and Treatment, Zhengzhou University, Zhengzhou, 450000, Henan, China.
- Provincial Cooperative Innovation Center for Cancer Chemoprevention, Zhengzhou University, Zhengzhou, 450000, Henan, China.
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42
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Bahar ME, Kim HJ, Kim DR. Targeting the RAS/RAF/MAPK pathway for cancer therapy: from mechanism to clinical studies. Signal Transduct Target Ther 2023; 8:455. [PMID: 38105263 PMCID: PMC10725898 DOI: 10.1038/s41392-023-01705-z] [Citation(s) in RCA: 20] [Impact Index Per Article: 20.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/03/2023] [Revised: 11/03/2023] [Accepted: 11/12/2023] [Indexed: 12/19/2023] Open
Abstract
Metastatic dissemination of solid tumors, a leading cause of cancer-related mortality, underscores the urgent need for enhanced insights into the molecular and cellular mechanisms underlying metastasis, chemoresistance, and the mechanistic backgrounds of individuals whose cancers are prone to migration. The most prevalent signaling cascade governed by multi-kinase inhibitors is the mitogen-activated protein kinase (MAPK) pathway, encompassing the RAS-RAF-MAPK kinase (MEK)-extracellular signal-related kinase (ERK) pathway. RAF kinase is a primary mediator of the MAPK pathway, responsible for the sequential activation of downstream targets, such as MEK and the transcription factor ERK, which control numerous cellular and physiological processes, including organism development, cell cycle control, cell proliferation and differentiation, cell survival, and death. Defects in this signaling cascade are associated with diseases such as cancer. RAF inhibitors (RAFi) combined with MEK blockers represent an FDA-approved therapeutic strategy for numerous RAF-mutant cancers, including melanoma, non-small cell lung carcinoma, and thyroid cancer. However, the development of therapy resistance by cancer cells remains an important barrier. Autophagy, an intracellular lysosome-dependent catabolic recycling process, plays a critical role in the development of RAFi resistance in cancer. Thus, targeting RAF and autophagy could be novel treatment strategies for RAF-mutant cancers. In this review, we delve deeper into the mechanistic insights surrounding RAF kinase signaling in tumorigenesis and RAFi-resistance. Furthermore, we explore and discuss the ongoing development of next-generation RAF inhibitors with enhanced therapeutic profiles. Additionally, this review sheds light on the functional interplay between RAF-targeted therapies and autophagy in cancer.
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Affiliation(s)
- Md Entaz Bahar
- Department of Biochemistry and Convergence Medical Sciences and Institute of Medical Science, Gyeongsang National University, College of Medicine, Jinju, South Korea
| | - Hyun Joon Kim
- Department of Anatomy and Convergence Medical Sciences and Institute of Medical Science, Gyeongsang National University, College of Medicine, Jinju, South Korea
| | - Deok Ryong Kim
- Department of Biochemistry and Convergence Medical Sciences and Institute of Medical Science, Gyeongsang National University, College of Medicine, Jinju, South Korea.
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43
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Ta L, Tsai BL, Deng W, Sha J, Varuzhanyan G, Tran W, Wohlschlegel JA, Carr-Ascher JR, Witte ON. Wild-type C-Raf gene dosage and dimerization drive prostate cancer metastasis. iScience 2023; 26:108480. [PMID: 38089570 PMCID: PMC10711388 DOI: 10.1016/j.isci.2023.108480] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/10/2023] [Revised: 10/04/2023] [Accepted: 11/15/2023] [Indexed: 02/01/2024] Open
Abstract
Mutated Ras and Raf kinases are well-known to promote cancer metastasis via flux through the Ras/Raf/MEK/ERK (mitogen-activated protein kinase [MAPK]) pathway. A role for non-mutated Raf in metastasis is also emerging, but the key mechanisms remain unclear. Elevated expression of any of the three wild-type Raf family members (C, A, or B) can drive metastasis. We utilized an in vivo model to show that wild-type C-Raf overexpression can promote metastasis of immortalized prostate cells in a gene dosage-dependent manner. Analysis of the transcriptomic and phosphoproteomic landscape indicated that C-Raf-driven metastasis is accompanied by upregulated MAPK signaling. Use of C-Raf mutants demonstrated that the dimerization domain, but not its kinase activity, is essential for metastasis. Endogenous Raf monomer knockouts revealed that C-Raf's ability to form dimers with endogenous Raf molecules is important for promoting metastasis. These data identify wild-type C-Raf heterodimer signaling as a potential target for treating metastatic disease.
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Affiliation(s)
- Lisa Ta
- Department of Molecular and Medical Pharmacology, University of California, Los Angeles; Los Angeles, CA 90095, USA
| | - Brandon L. Tsai
- Department of Human Genetics, University of California, Los Angeles; Los Angeles, CA 90095, USA
| | - Weixian Deng
- Department of Biological Chemistry, David Geffen School of Medicine, University of California, Los Angeles; Los Angeles, CA 90095, USA
| | - Jihui Sha
- Department of Biological Chemistry, David Geffen School of Medicine, University of California, Los Angeles; Los Angeles, CA 90095, USA
| | - Grigor Varuzhanyan
- Department of Microbiology, Immunology, and Molecular Genetics, University of California, Los Angeles; Los Angeles, CA 90095, USA
| | - Wendy Tran
- Department of Microbiology, Immunology, and Molecular Genetics, University of California, Los Angeles; Los Angeles, CA 90095, USA
| | - James A. Wohlschlegel
- Department of Biological Chemistry, David Geffen School of Medicine, University of California, Los Angeles; Los Angeles, CA 90095, USA
| | - Janai R. Carr-Ascher
- Department of Internal Medicine, Division of Hematology/Oncology, University of California, Davis, Sacramento, CA 95817, USA
- Department of Orthopedic Surgery, University of California, Davis; Sacramento, CA 95817, USA
| | - Owen N. Witte
- Department of Molecular and Medical Pharmacology, University of California, Los Angeles; Los Angeles, CA 90095, USA
- Department of Microbiology, Immunology, and Molecular Genetics, University of California, Los Angeles; Los Angeles, CA 90095, USA
- Molecular Biology Institute, University of California, Los Angeles; Los Angeles, CA 90095, USA
- Eli and Edythe Broad Center of Regenerative Medicine and Stem Cell Research, University of California, Los Angeles, Los Angeles, CA 90095, USA
- Jonsson Comprehensive Cancer Center, University of California, Los Angeles; Los Angeles, CA 90095, USA
- Parker Institute for Cancer Immunotherapy, University of California, Los Angeles; Los Angeles, CA 90095, USA
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44
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Shen X, Niu N, Xue J. Oncogenic KRAS triggers metabolic reprogramming in pancreatic ductal adenocarcinoma. J Transl Int Med 2023; 11:322-329. [PMID: 38130635 PMCID: PMC10732496 DOI: 10.2478/jtim-2022-0022] [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: 11/16/2022] Open
Abstract
Pancreatic ductal adenocarcinoma (PDAC) is a devastating disease with an extremely high lethality rate. Oncogenic KRAS activation has been proven to be a key driver of PDAC initiation and progression. There is increasing evidence that PDAC cells undergo extensive metabolic reprogramming to adapt to their extreme energy and biomass demands. Cell-intrinsic factors, such as KRAS mutations, are able to trigger metabolic rewriting. Here, we update recent advances in KRAS-driven metabolic reprogramming and the associated metabolic therapeutic potential in PDAC.
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Affiliation(s)
- Xuqing Shen
- State Key Laboratory of Oncogenes and Related Genes, Stem Cell Research Center, Ren Ji Hospital, School of Medicine, Shanghai Cancer Institute, Shanghai Jiao Tong University, Shanghai200127, China
| | - Ningning Niu
- State Key Laboratory of Oncogenes and Related Genes, Stem Cell Research Center, Ren Ji Hospital, School of Medicine, Shanghai Cancer Institute, Shanghai Jiao Tong University, Shanghai200127, China
| | - Jing Xue
- State Key Laboratory of Oncogenes and Related Genes, Stem Cell Research Center, Ren Ji Hospital, School of Medicine, Shanghai Cancer Institute, Shanghai Jiao Tong University, Shanghai200127, China
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45
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Rasmussen DM, Semonis MM, Greene JT, Muretta JM, Thompson AR, Ramos ST, Thomas DD, Pomerantz WC, Freedman TS, Levinson NM. Allosteric coupling asymmetry mediates paradoxical activation of BRAF by type II inhibitors. BIORXIV : THE PREPRINT SERVER FOR BIOLOGY 2023:2023.04.18.536450. [PMID: 37131649 PMCID: PMC10153139 DOI: 10.1101/2023.04.18.536450] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 05/04/2023]
Abstract
The type II class of RAF inhibitors currently in clinical trials paradoxically activate BRAF at subsaturating concentrations. Activation is mediated by induction of BRAF dimers, but why activation rather than inhibition occurs remains unclear. Using biophysical methods tracking BRAF dimerization and conformation we built an allosteric model of inhibitor-induced dimerization that resolves the allosteric contributions of inhibitor binding to the two active sites of the dimer, revealing key differences between type I and type II RAF inhibitors. For type II inhibitors the allosteric coupling between inhibitor binding and BRAF dimerization is distributed asymmetrically across the two dimer binding sites, with binding to the first site dominating the allostery. This asymmetry results in efficient and selective induction of dimers with one inhibited and one catalytically active subunit. Our allosteric models quantitatively account for paradoxical activation data measured for 11 RAF inhibitors. Unlike type II inhibitors, type I inhibitors lack allosteric asymmetry and do not activate BRAF homodimers. Finally, NMR data reveal that BRAF homodimers are dynamically asymmetric with only one of the subunits locked in the active αC-in state. This provides a structural mechanism for how binding of only a single αC-in inhibitor molecule can induce potent BRAF dimerization and activation.
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Affiliation(s)
- Damien M. Rasmussen
- Department of Pharmacology, University of Minnesota, Minneapolis, MN, 55455
- Department of Biochemistry, Molecular Biology, and Biophysics, University of Minnesota, Minneapolis, MN, 55455
| | - Manny M. Semonis
- Department of Pharmacology, University of Minnesota, Minneapolis, MN, 55455
| | - Joseph T. Greene
- Department of Pharmacology, University of Minnesota, Minneapolis, MN, 55455
| | - Joseph M. Muretta
- Department of Biochemistry, Molecular Biology, and Biophysics, University of Minnesota, Minneapolis, MN, 55455
| | - Andrew R. Thompson
- Department of Biochemistry, Molecular Biology, and Biophysics, University of Minnesota, Minneapolis, MN, 55455
| | | | - David D. Thomas
- Department of Biochemistry, Molecular Biology, and Biophysics, University of Minnesota, Minneapolis, MN, 55455
| | | | - Tanya S. Freedman
- Department of Pharmacology, University of Minnesota, Minneapolis, MN, 55455
- Center for Immunology, University of Minnesota, Minneapolis, MN, 55455
- Masonic Cancer Center, University of Minnesota, Minneapolis, MN, 55455
| | - Nicholas M. Levinson
- Department of Pharmacology, University of Minnesota, Minneapolis, MN, 55455
- Masonic Cancer Center, University of Minnesota, Minneapolis, MN, 55455
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46
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Chen K, McInnis-Smith K, Tiwari N, Moser JC, Ramasubramanian A. BRAF Immunohistochemical Studies of Pediatric Conjunctival Lesions. Cornea 2023; 42:1404-1407. [PMID: 36729648 DOI: 10.1097/ico.0000000000003196] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/26/2022] [Accepted: 09/28/2022] [Indexed: 02/03/2023]
Abstract
PURPOSE The purpose of this study was to analyze the prevalence of an activating mutation in the B-Raf proto-oncogene (BRAF) V600E immunoreactivity in pediatric conjunctival lesions. METHODS This retrospective case-control study included 32 pediatric patients who underwent surgical excision of conjunctival lesions between Jan 2019 and May 2022. The collected data included demographic data, clinical features, and histopathologic characteristics of the lesion, including BRAF V600E positivity. The Student t test and the Fisher exact test were used to determine the significance of the associations between clinical variables and BRAF positivity. RESULTS BRAF immunoreactivity was positive in 11/32 lesions (34%). Age at diagnosis did not correlate with BRAF positivity, with a mean age at diagnosis of 131.7 months for patients with BRAF+ lesions and 134.7 months for those with BRAF- lesions ( P > 0.1). No clinical or pathological features were found to be significantly correlated with BRAF positivity, although there was a trend toward BRAF positivity in the presence of cysts ( P = 0.072). CONCLUSIONS BRAF reactivity was present in approximately one-third of pediatric conjunctival nevi but does not correlate significantly with unique clinical or histopathological features.
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Affiliation(s)
| | | | | | - Justin C Moser
- HonorHealth Research and Innovation Institute, Scottsdale, AZ
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47
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Flaherty KT. A twenty year perspective on melanoma therapy. Pigment Cell Melanoma Res 2023; 36:563-575. [PMID: 37770281 DOI: 10.1111/pcmr.13125] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/13/2023] [Revised: 08/27/2023] [Accepted: 08/29/2023] [Indexed: 09/30/2023]
Abstract
Melanoma had long been considered to be particularly addressable with immunotherapy, but that reputation was built on modestly effective cytokine-based immunotherapy. CTLA-4 antibody therapy reinforced this legacy, but PD-1 antibodies transformed the melanoma treatment landscape and lead the way for immunotherapy to become standard treatment for more than half of the advanced cancer population. BRAF mutations were discovered in 8% of all cancer and nearly 50% of melanomas. Successful development of BRAF inhibitors and BRAF/MEK combination therapy in melanoma preceded regulatory approval across all cancer types. No cancer type saw outcomes improved by the same margin as melanoma in the decade of the 2010s.
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Affiliation(s)
- Keith T Flaherty
- Massachusetts General Hospital Cancer Center, Boston, Massachusetts, USA
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48
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Mendiratta G, Stites E. Theoretical analysis reveals a role for RAF conformational autoinhibition in paradoxical activation. eLife 2023; 12:e82739. [PMID: 37823369 PMCID: PMC10627510 DOI: 10.7554/elife.82739] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/16/2022] [Accepted: 10/10/2023] [Indexed: 10/13/2023] Open
Abstract
RAF kinase inhibitors can, under certain conditions, increase RAF kinase signaling. This process, which is commonly referred to as 'paradoxical activation' (PA), is incompletely understood. We use mathematical and computational modeling to investigate PA and derive rigorous analytical expressions that illuminate the underlying mechanism of this complex phenomenon. We find that conformational autoinhibition modulation by a RAF inhibitor could be sufficient to create PA. We find that experimental RAF inhibitor drug dose-response data that characterize PA across different types of RAF inhibitors are best explained by a model that includes RAF inhibitor modulation of three properties: conformational autoinhibition, dimer affinity, and drug binding within the dimer (i.e., negative cooperativity). Overall, this work establishes conformational autoinhibition as a robust mechanism for RAF inhibitor-driven PA based solely on equilibrium dynamics of canonical interactions that comprise RAF signaling and inhibition.
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Affiliation(s)
- Gaurav Mendiratta
- Integrative Biology Laboratory, Salk Institute for Biological StudiesLa JollaUnited States
| | - Edward Stites
- Department of Laboratory Medicine, Yale UniversityNew HavenUnited States
- Yale Cancer Center, Yale School of MedicineNew HavenUnited States
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49
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Chen W, Park JI. Tumor Cell Resistance to the Inhibition of BRAF and MEK1/2. Int J Mol Sci 2023; 24:14837. [PMID: 37834284 PMCID: PMC10573597 DOI: 10.3390/ijms241914837] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/01/2023] [Revised: 09/26/2023] [Accepted: 09/27/2023] [Indexed: 10/15/2023] Open
Abstract
BRAF is one of the most frequently mutated oncogenes, with an overall frequency of about 50%. Targeting BRAF and its effector mitogen-activated protein kinase kinase 1/2 (MEK1/2) is now a key therapeutic strategy for BRAF-mutant tumors, and therapies based on dual BRAF/MEK inhibition showed significant efficacy in a broad spectrum of BRAF tumors. Nonetheless, BRAF/MEK inhibition therapy is not always effective for BRAF tumor suppression, and significant challenges remain to improve its clinical outcomes. First, certain BRAF tumors have an intrinsic ability to rapidly adapt to the presence of BRAF and MEK1/2 inhibitors by bypassing drug effects via rewired signaling, metabolic, and regulatory networks. Second, almost all tumors initially responsive to BRAF and MEK1/2 inhibitors eventually acquire therapy resistance via an additional genetic or epigenetic alteration(s). Overcoming these challenges requires identifying the molecular mechanism underlying tumor cell resistance to BRAF and MEK inhibitors and analyzing their specificity in different BRAF tumors. This review aims to update this information.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Jong-In Park
- Department of Biochemistry, Medical College of Wisconsin, Milwaukee, WI 53226, USA;
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50
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Karras F, Bonsack M, Seifert S, Friedrich L, Kunz M. MEK inhibition induces expression of differentiation marker Keratin 10 in human keratinocytes. Pathol Res Pract 2023; 250:154788. [PMID: 37729782 DOI: 10.1016/j.prp.2023.154788] [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: 06/13/2023] [Revised: 08/29/2023] [Accepted: 09/01/2023] [Indexed: 09/22/2023]
Abstract
BRAF mutant metastatic melanoma was regularly treated in the past with a BRAF inhibitor (BRAFi) alone or in combination with inhibitors of the mitogen-activated protein kinase kinase (MEKi), which is still a common treatment. This combination therapy strongly reduced the occurrence of keratoacanthomas and squamous cell carcinoma, which was frequently seen when BRAFi was used as monotherapy. Here we addressed the question whether MEK inhibition counteracts squamous cell carcinoma development in part by promoting keratinocyte differentiation. Exposure of human immortalized keratinocytes to different concentrations of MEKi revealed a significant increase in the expression of differentiation-associated keratins K10 and K1 as determined by qRT-PCR and immunofluorescence staining. Taken together, the present study suggests that in a combined treatment of melanoma with BRAFi/MEKi, MEKi reduces the incidence of squamous cell carcinomas by promoting keratinocyte differentiation under combined BRAFi/MEKi treatment in melanoma. This might open further treatment perspectives for skin cancer treatment.
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Affiliation(s)
- F Karras
- Department of Dermatology, Venereology and Allergology, University Medical Center Leipzig, 04103 Leipzig, Germany; Institute of Pathology, University Hospital Otto-von-Guericke University Magdeburg, 39120 Magdeburg, Germany.
| | - M Bonsack
- Department of Dermatology, Venereology and Allergology, University Medical Center Leipzig, 04103 Leipzig, Germany
| | - S Seifert
- Department of Dermatology, Venereology and Allergology, University Medical Center Leipzig, 04103 Leipzig, Germany
| | - L Friedrich
- Department of Dermatology, Venereology and Allergology, University Medical Center Leipzig, 04103 Leipzig, Germany
| | - M Kunz
- Department of Dermatology, Venereology and Allergology, University Medical Center Leipzig, 04103 Leipzig, Germany
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