1
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Jin X, Ding N, Guo HY, Hu Q. Macrocyclic-based strategy in drug design: From lab to the clinic. Eur J Med Chem 2024; 277:116733. [PMID: 39098132 DOI: 10.1016/j.ejmech.2024.116733] [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: 07/05/2024] [Revised: 07/24/2024] [Accepted: 07/25/2024] [Indexed: 08/06/2024]
Abstract
Macrocyclic compounds have emerged as potent tools in the field of drug design, offering unique advantages for enhancing molecular recognition, improving pharmacokinetic properties, and expanding the chemical space accessible to medicinal chemists. This review delves into the evolutionary trajectory of macrocyclic-based strategies, tracing their journey from laboratory innovations to clinical applications. Beginning with an exploration of the defining structural features of macrocycles and their impact on drug-like characteristics, this discussion progresses to highlight key design principles that have facilitated the development of diverse macrocyclic drug candidates. Through a series of illustrative representative case studies from approved macrocyclic drugs and candidates spanning various therapeutic areas, particular emphasis is placed on their efficacy in targeting challenging protein-protein interactions, enzymes, and receptors. Additionally, this review thoroughly examines how macrocycles effectively address critical issues such as metabolic stability, oral bioavailability and selectivity. Valuable insights into optimization strategies employed during both approved and clinical phases underscore successful translation of promising leads into efficacious therapies while providing valuable perspectives on harnessing the full potential of macrocycles in drug discovery and development endeavors.
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Affiliation(s)
- Xin Jin
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynaecology, Shengjing Hospital of China Medical University, Shenyang, China
| | - Ning Ding
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynaecology, Shengjing Hospital of China Medical University, Shenyang, China
| | - Hong-Yu Guo
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynaecology, Shengjing Hospital of China Medical University, Shenyang, China
| | - Qing Hu
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynaecology, Shengjing Hospital of China Medical University, Shenyang, China.
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2
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Portelinha A, Wang S, Parsa S, Jiang M, Gorelick AN, Mohanty S, Sharma S, de Stanchina E, Berishaj M, Zhao C, Heward J, Aryal NK, Tavana O, Wen J, Fitzgibbon J, Dogan A, Younes A, Melnick AM, Wendel HG. SETD1B mutations confer apoptosis resistance and BCL2 independence in B cell lymphoma. J Exp Med 2024; 221:e20231143. [PMID: 39235528 PMCID: PMC11380151 DOI: 10.1084/jem.20231143] [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: 07/05/2023] [Revised: 03/05/2024] [Accepted: 08/02/2024] [Indexed: 09/06/2024] Open
Abstract
The translocation t(14;18) activates BCL2 and is considered the initiating genetic lesion in most follicular lymphomas (FL). Surprisingly, FL patients fail to respond to the BCL2 inhibitor, Venetoclax. We show that mutations and deletions affecting the histone lysine methyltransferase SETD1B (KMT2G) occur in 7% of FLs and 16% of diffuse large B cell lymphomas (DLBCL). Deficiency in SETD1B confers striking resistance to Venetoclax and an experimental MCL-1 inhibitor. SETD1B also acts as a tumor suppressor and cooperates with the loss of KMT2D in lymphoma development in vivo. Consistently, loss of SETD1B in human lymphomas typically coincides with loss of KMT2D. Mechanistically, SETD1B is required for the expression of several proapoptotic BCL2 family proteins. Conversely, inhibitors of the KDM5 histone H3K4 demethylases restore BIM and BIK expression and synergize with Venetoclax in SETD1B-deficient lymphomas. These results establish SETD1B as an epigenetic regulator of cell death and reveal a pharmacological strategy to augment Venetoclax sensitivity in lymphoma.
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MESH Headings
- Animals
- Humans
- Mice
- Apoptosis/genetics
- Bridged Bicyclo Compounds, Heterocyclic/pharmacology
- Cell Line, Tumor
- DNA-Binding Proteins/genetics
- DNA-Binding Proteins/metabolism
- Drug Resistance, Neoplasm/genetics
- Histone-Lysine N-Methyltransferase/genetics
- Histone-Lysine N-Methyltransferase/metabolism
- Lymphoma, B-Cell/genetics
- Lymphoma, B-Cell/pathology
- Lymphoma, B-Cell/metabolism
- Lymphoma, Large B-Cell, Diffuse/genetics
- Lymphoma, Large B-Cell, Diffuse/pathology
- Lymphoma, Large B-Cell, Diffuse/metabolism
- Mutation
- Neoplasm Proteins/genetics
- Neoplasm Proteins/metabolism
- Proto-Oncogene Proteins c-bcl-2/genetics
- Proto-Oncogene Proteins c-bcl-2/metabolism
- Sulfonamides/pharmacology
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Affiliation(s)
- Ana Portelinha
- Cancer Biology and Genetics Program, Memorial Sloan-Kettering Cancer Center , New York, NY, USA
| | - Shenqiu Wang
- Cancer Biology and Genetics Program, Memorial Sloan-Kettering Cancer Center , New York, NY, USA
| | - Sara Parsa
- Cancer Biology and Genetics Program, Memorial Sloan-Kettering Cancer Center , New York, NY, USA
| | - Man Jiang
- Cancer Biology and Genetics Program, Memorial Sloan-Kettering Cancer Center , New York, NY, USA
| | - Alexander N Gorelick
- Human Oncology and Pathogenesis Program, Memorial Sloan-Kettering Cancer Center , New York, NY, USA
- Department of Genetics, Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA, USA
| | - Sagarajit Mohanty
- Cancer Biology and Genetics Program, Memorial Sloan-Kettering Cancer Center , New York, NY, USA
| | - Soumya Sharma
- Cancer Biology and Genetics Program, Memorial Sloan-Kettering Cancer Center , New York, NY, USA
- Department of Physiology and Biophysics, Weill Cornell Medicine, New York, NY, USA
| | - Elisa de Stanchina
- Antitumor Assessment Core, Memorial Sloan Kettering Cancer Center , New York, NY, USA
| | - Marjan Berishaj
- Cancer Biology and Genetics Program, Memorial Sloan-Kettering Cancer Center , New York, NY, USA
| | - Chunying Zhao
- Cancer Biology and Genetics Program, Memorial Sloan-Kettering Cancer Center , New York, NY, USA
| | | | - Neeraj K Aryal
- Bioscience, Early Oncology R&D, AstraZeneca , Waltham, MA, USA
| | - Omid Tavana
- Bioscience, Early Oncology R&D, AstraZeneca , Waltham, MA, USA
| | - Jiayu Wen
- Division of Genome Sciences and Cancer, The John Curtin School of Medical Research, The Australian National University and Australian Research Council Centre of Excellence for the Mathematical Analysis of Cellular Systems, Canberra, Australia
| | | | - Ahmet Dogan
- Departments of Pathology and Laboratory Medicine, Hematopathology Service, Memorial Sloan-Kettering Cancer Center, New York, NY, USA
| | - Anas Younes
- Haematology R&D, AstraZeneca , New York, NY, USA
| | - Ari M Melnick
- Hematology and Oncology Division, Medicine Department, New York Presbyterian Hospital, Weill Cornell Medicine, New York, NY, USA
| | - Hans-Guido Wendel
- Cancer Biology and Genetics Program, Memorial Sloan-Kettering Cancer Center , New York, NY, USA
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3
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Urabe M, Ikezawa K, Seiki Y, Watsuji K, Kawamoto Y, Hirao T, Kai Y, Takada R, Yamai T, Mukai K, Nakabori T, Uehara H, Nagata S, Ohkawa K. Mcl-1 expression is a predictive marker of response to gemcitabine plus nab-paclitaxel for metastatic pancreatic cancer. Sci Rep 2024; 14:21953. [PMID: 39304727 DOI: 10.1038/s41598-024-73020-8] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/23/2024] [Accepted: 09/12/2024] [Indexed: 09/22/2024] Open
Abstract
Antiapoptotic protein, including Mcl-1, expression is frequently observed in pancreatic cancer. Gemcitabine plus nabpaclitaxel (GnP) is the standard chemotherapy for metastatic pancreatic cancer (MPC); however, predictive markers for its efficacy remain unestablished. This study evaluated the association between GnP's therapeutic effects and Mcl-1 expression in tissue samples obtained using endoscopic ultrasound-guided fine-needle aspiration (EUS-FNA) for pancreatic tumor or percutaneous ultrasound-guided biopsy for metastatic liver tumor. We retrospectively reviewed 38 patients with histologically diagnosed MPC who received GnP as the first-line chemotherapy at our institute between December 2014 and July 2018. Post-immunohistochemistry analysis for Mcl-1 expression detection, patients were divided to into two groups based on the cell proportion showing Mcl-1 immunoreactivity: positive (> 20%; 23 [60.5%] patients) and negative (≤ 20%; 15 [39.5%] patients) groups. Clinical characteristics did not differ between the two groups. The Mcl-1 positive group showed a significantly higher disease control rate (95.7% vs. 73.3%; P = 0.046), longer progressionfree survival (PFS) (7.2 months vs. 4.9 months; P = 0.018) and longer overall survival (OS) (14.9 months vs. 9.2 months; P = 0.008) than the Mcl-1 negative group. Multivariate analysis showed that Mcl-1 expression was an independent predictive marker for PFS and OS. Mcl-1 expression could be a predictive marker for favorable response to GnP.
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Affiliation(s)
- Makiko Urabe
- Department of Hepatobiliary and Pancreatic Oncology, Osaka International Cancer Institute, 3-1-69 Otemae, Chuo-ku, Osaka, 541-8567, Japan
| | - Kenji Ikezawa
- Department of Hepatobiliary and Pancreatic Oncology, Osaka International Cancer Institute, 3-1-69 Otemae, Chuo-ku, Osaka, 541-8567, Japan.
| | - Yusuke Seiki
- Department of Hepatobiliary and Pancreatic Oncology, Osaka International Cancer Institute, 3-1-69 Otemae, Chuo-ku, Osaka, 541-8567, Japan
| | - Ko Watsuji
- Department of Hepatobiliary and Pancreatic Oncology, Osaka International Cancer Institute, 3-1-69 Otemae, Chuo-ku, Osaka, 541-8567, Japan
| | - Yasuharu Kawamoto
- Department of Hepatobiliary and Pancreatic Oncology, Osaka International Cancer Institute, 3-1-69 Otemae, Chuo-ku, Osaka, 541-8567, Japan
| | - Takeru Hirao
- Department of Hepatobiliary and Pancreatic Oncology, Osaka International Cancer Institute, 3-1-69 Otemae, Chuo-ku, Osaka, 541-8567, Japan
| | - Yugo Kai
- Department of Hepatobiliary and Pancreatic Oncology, Osaka International Cancer Institute, 3-1-69 Otemae, Chuo-ku, Osaka, 541-8567, Japan
| | - Ryoji Takada
- Department of Hepatobiliary and Pancreatic Oncology, Osaka International Cancer Institute, 3-1-69 Otemae, Chuo-ku, Osaka, 541-8567, Japan
| | - Takuo Yamai
- Department of Hepatobiliary and Pancreatic Oncology, Osaka International Cancer Institute, 3-1-69 Otemae, Chuo-ku, Osaka, 541-8567, Japan
| | - Kaori Mukai
- Department of Hepatobiliary and Pancreatic Oncology, Osaka International Cancer Institute, 3-1-69 Otemae, Chuo-ku, Osaka, 541-8567, Japan
| | - Tasuku Nakabori
- Department of Hepatobiliary and Pancreatic Oncology, Osaka International Cancer Institute, 3-1-69 Otemae, Chuo-ku, Osaka, 541-8567, Japan
| | - Hiroyuki Uehara
- Department of Hepatobiliary and Pancreatic Oncology, Osaka International Cancer Institute, 3-1-69 Otemae, Chuo-ku, Osaka, 541-8567, Japan
| | - Shigenori Nagata
- Department of Diagnostic Pathology and Cytology, Osaka International Cancer Institute, Osaka, Japan
| | - Kazuyoshi Ohkawa
- Department of Hepatobiliary and Pancreatic Oncology, Osaka International Cancer Institute, 3-1-69 Otemae, Chuo-ku, Osaka, 541-8567, Japan
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4
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O'Leary B, Skinner H, Schoenfeld JD, Licitra L, Le Tourneau C, Esdar C, Schroeder A, Salmio S, Psyrri A. Evasion of apoptosis and treatment resistance in squamous cell carcinoma of the head and neck. Cancer Treat Rev 2024; 129:102773. [PMID: 38878677 DOI: 10.1016/j.ctrv.2024.102773] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/04/2024] [Revised: 05/29/2024] [Accepted: 05/30/2024] [Indexed: 08/18/2024]
Abstract
Combinations of surgery, radiotherapy and chemotherapy can eradicate tumors in patients with locally advanced squamous cell carcinoma of the head and neck (LA SCCHN), but a significant proportion of tumors progress, recur, or do not respond to therapy due to treatment resistance. The prognosis for these patients is poor, thus new approaches are needed to improve outcomes. Key resistance mechanisms to chemoradiotherapy (CRT) in patients with LA SCCHN are alterations to the pathways that mediate apoptosis, a form of programmed cell death. Targeting dysregulation of apoptotic pathways represents a rational therapeutic strategy in many types of cancer, with a number of proteins, including the pro-survival B-cell lymphoma 2 family and inhibitors of apoptosis proteins (IAPs), having been identified as druggable targets. This review discusses the mechanisms by which apoptosis occurs under physiological conditions, and how this process is abnormally restrained in LA SCCHN tumor cells, with treatment strategies aimed at re-enabling apoptosis in LA SCCHN also considered. In particular, the development of, and future opportunities for, IAP inhibitors in LA SCCHN are discussed, in light of recent encouraging proof-of-concept clinical trial data.
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Affiliation(s)
| | | | | | - Lisa Licitra
- Fondazione IRCCS Istituto Nazionale dei Tumori, Milan and University of Milan, Italy
| | | | | | | | | | - Amanda Psyrri
- Attikon University Hospital, National Kapodistrian University of Athens, Greece
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5
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Qi Y, Rezaeian AH, Wang J, Huang D, Chen H, Inuzuka H, Wei W. Molecular insights and clinical implications for the tumor suppressor role of SCF FBXW7 E3 ubiquitin ligase. Biochim Biophys Acta Rev Cancer 2024; 1879:189140. [PMID: 38909632 PMCID: PMC11390337 DOI: 10.1016/j.bbcan.2024.189140] [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: 04/12/2024] [Revised: 06/04/2024] [Accepted: 06/17/2024] [Indexed: 06/25/2024]
Abstract
FBXW7 is one of the most well-characterized F-box proteins, serving as substrate receptor subunit of SKP1-CUL1-F-box (SCF) E3 ligase complexes. SCFFBXW7 is responsible for the degradation of various oncogenic proteins such as cyclin E, c-MYC, c-JUN, NOTCH, and MCL1. Therefore, FBXW7 functions largely as a major tumor suppressor. In keeping with this notion, FBXW7 gene mutations or downregulations have been found and reported in many types of malignant tumors, such as endometrial, colorectal, lung, and breast cancers, which facilitate the proliferation, invasion, migration, and drug resistance of cancer cells. Therefore, it is critical to review newly identified FBXW7 regulation and tumor suppressor function under physiological and pathological conditions to develop effective strategies for the treatment of FBXW7-altered cancers. Since a growing body of evidence has revealed the tumor-suppressive activity and role of FBXW7, here, we updated FBXW7 upstream and downstream signaling including FBXW7 ubiquitin substrates, the multi-level FBXW7 regulatory mechanisms, and dysregulation of FBXW7 in cancer, and discussed promising cancer therapies targeting FBXW7 regulators and downstream effectors, to provide a comprehensive picture of FBXW7 and facilitate the study in this field.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yihang Qi
- Department of Pathology, Beth Israel Deaconess Medical Center, Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA 02215, USA
| | - Abdol-Hossein Rezaeian
- Department of Pathology, Beth Israel Deaconess Medical Center, Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA 02215, USA
| | - Jingchao Wang
- Department of Pathology, Beth Israel Deaconess Medical Center, Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA 02215, USA
| | - Daoyuan Huang
- Department of Pathology, Beth Israel Deaconess Medical Center, Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA 02215, USA
| | - Hong Chen
- Vascular Biology Program, Department of Surgery, Harvard Medical School, Boston Children's Hospital, Boston, MA, USA
| | - Hiroyuki Inuzuka
- Department of Pathology, Beth Israel Deaconess Medical Center, Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA 02215, USA
| | - Wenyi Wei
- Department of Pathology, Beth Israel Deaconess Medical Center, Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA 02215, USA.
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6
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Deng H, Zhang J, Liu L, Zhang H, Han Y, Wu L, Jing Y, Huang M, Zhao L. Discovery of Novel Mcl-1 Inhibitors with a 3-Substituted-1 H-indole-1-yl Moiety Binding to the P1-P3 Pockets to Induce Apoptosis in Acute Myeloid Leukemia Cells. J Med Chem 2024; 67:13925-13958. [PMID: 39121336 DOI: 10.1021/acs.jmedchem.4c00643] [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: 08/11/2024]
Abstract
Mcl-1 is a main antiapoptotic protein in acute myeloid leukemia (AML) and is used as a target to develop inhibitors. Currently, potent Mcl-1 inhibitors primarily interact with the P2-P4 pockets of Mcl-1, but pharmacological modulation by targeting the P1 pocket is less explored. We designed a series of 1H-indole-2-carboxylic acid compounds as novel Mcl-1 inhibitors occupying the P1-P3 pockets and evaluated their Mcl-1 inhibition and apoptosis induction in AML cells. Two-dimensional 15N-HSQC spectroscopy indicated that 47 (Ki = 24 nM) bound to the BH3 binding groove, occupied the P1 pocket in Mcl-1, and formed interactions with Lys234 and Val249. 47 exhibited good microsomal stability and pharmacokinetic profiles, with low potential risk of cardiotoxicity. 47 inhibited tumor growth in HL-60 and THP-1 xenograft models with growth inhibition rate of 63.7% and 57.4%, respectively. Collectively, 47 represents a novel Mcl-1 inhibitor targeting the P1-P3 pockets with excellent antileukemia effects.
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Affiliation(s)
- Hongguang Deng
- Key Laboratory of Structure-Based Drugs Design & Discovery of Ministry of Education, Shenyang Pharmaceutical University, Shenyang 110016, China
| | - Jingyi Zhang
- Liaoning Key Laboratory of Targeting Drugs for Hematological Malignancies, Shenyang Pharmaceutical University, Shenyang 110016, China
| | - Liang Liu
- Key Laboratory of Structure-Based Drugs Design & Discovery of Ministry of Education, Shenyang Pharmaceutical University, Shenyang 110016, China
| | - Hong Zhang
- Key Laboratory of Structure-Based Drugs Design & Discovery of Ministry of Education, Shenyang Pharmaceutical University, Shenyang 110016, China
| | - Yu Han
- Key Laboratory of Structure-Based Drugs Design & Discovery of Ministry of Education, Shenyang Pharmaceutical University, Shenyang 110016, China
| | - Linlin Wu
- Liaoning Key Laboratory of Targeting Drugs for Hematological Malignancies, Shenyang Pharmaceutical University, Shenyang 110016, China
| | - Yongkui Jing
- Liaoning Key Laboratory of Targeting Drugs for Hematological Malignancies, Shenyang Pharmaceutical University, Shenyang 110016, China
| | - Min Huang
- Key Laboratory of Structure-Based Drugs Design & Discovery of Ministry of Education, Shenyang Pharmaceutical University, Shenyang 110016, China
| | - Linxiang Zhao
- Key Laboratory of Structure-Based Drugs Design & Discovery of Ministry of Education, Shenyang Pharmaceutical University, Shenyang 110016, China
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7
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Tarr J, Salovich JM, Aichinger M, Jeon K, Veerasamy N, Sensintaffar JL, Arnhof H, Samwer M, Christov PP, Kim K, Wunberg T, Schweifer N, Trapani F, Arnold A, Martin F, Zhao B, Miriyala N, Sgubin D, Fogarty S, Moore WJ, Stott GM, Olejniczak ET, Engelhardt H, Rudolph D, Lee T, McConnell DB, Fesik SW. Discovery of a Myeloid Cell Leukemia 1 (Mcl-1) Inhibitor That Demonstrates Potent In Vivo Activities in Mouse Models of Hematological and Solid Tumors. J Med Chem 2024; 67:14370-14393. [PMID: 39102508 PMCID: PMC11345828 DOI: 10.1021/acs.jmedchem.4c01188] [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: 05/22/2024] [Revised: 07/10/2024] [Accepted: 07/15/2024] [Indexed: 08/07/2024]
Abstract
Myeloid cell leukemia 1 (Mcl-1) is a key regulator of the intrinsic apoptosis pathway. Overexpression of Mcl-1 is correlated with high tumor grade, poor survival, and both intrinsic and acquired resistance to cancer therapies. Herein, we disclose the structure-guided design of a small molecule Mcl-1 inhibitor, compound 26, that binds to Mcl-1 with subnanomolar affinity, inhibits growth in cell culture assays, and possesses low clearance in mouse and dog pharmacokinetic (PK) experiments. Evaluation of 26 as a single agent in Mcl-1 sensitive hematological and solid tumor xenograft models resulted in regressions. Co-treatment of Mcl-1-sensitive and Mcl-1 insensitive lung cancer derived xenografts with 26 and docetaxel or topotecan, respectively, resulted in an enhanced tumor response. These findings support the premise that pro-apoptotic priming of tumor cells by other therapies in combination with Mcl-1 inhibition may significantly expand the subset of cancers in which Mcl-1 inhibitors may prove beneficial.
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Affiliation(s)
- James
C. Tarr
- Department
of Biochemistry, Vanderbilt University School
of Medicine, 2215 Garland Avenue, 607 Light Hall, Nashville, Tennessee 37232-0146, United States
| | - James M. Salovich
- Department
of Biochemistry, Vanderbilt University School
of Medicine, 2215 Garland Avenue, 607 Light Hall, Nashville, Tennessee 37232-0146, United States
| | - Martin Aichinger
- Discovery
Research, Boehringer Ingelheim Regional
Center Vienna GmbH & Co KG, 1120 Vienna, Austria
| | - KyuOk Jeon
- Department
of Biochemistry, Vanderbilt University School
of Medicine, 2215 Garland Avenue, 607 Light Hall, Nashville, Tennessee 37232-0146, United States
| | - Nagarathanam Veerasamy
- Department
of Biochemistry, Vanderbilt University School
of Medicine, 2215 Garland Avenue, 607 Light Hall, Nashville, Tennessee 37232-0146, United States
| | - John L. Sensintaffar
- Department
of Biochemistry, Vanderbilt University School
of Medicine, 2215 Garland Avenue, 607 Light Hall, Nashville, Tennessee 37232-0146, United States
| | - Heribert Arnhof
- Discovery
Research, Boehringer Ingelheim Regional
Center Vienna GmbH & Co KG, 1120 Vienna, Austria
| | - Matthias Samwer
- Discovery
Research, Boehringer Ingelheim Regional
Center Vienna GmbH & Co KG, 1120 Vienna, Austria
| | - Plamen P. Christov
- Molecular
Design and Synthesis Center, Vanderbilt Institute of Chemical Biology, Vanderbilt University, Nashville, Tennessee 37323-0146, United States
| | - Kwangho Kim
- Molecular
Design and Synthesis Center, Vanderbilt Institute of Chemical Biology, Vanderbilt University, Nashville, Tennessee 37323-0146, United States
| | - Tobias Wunberg
- Discovery
Research, Boehringer Ingelheim Regional
Center Vienna GmbH & Co KG, 1120 Vienna, Austria
| | - Norbert Schweifer
- Discovery
Research, Boehringer Ingelheim Regional
Center Vienna GmbH & Co KG, 1120 Vienna, Austria
| | - Francesca Trapani
- Discovery
Research, Boehringer Ingelheim Regional
Center Vienna GmbH & Co KG, 1120 Vienna, Austria
| | - Allison Arnold
- Department
of Biochemistry, Vanderbilt University School
of Medicine, 2215 Garland Avenue, 607 Light Hall, Nashville, Tennessee 37232-0146, United States
| | - Florian Martin
- Discovery
Research, Boehringer Ingelheim Regional
Center Vienna GmbH & Co KG, 1120 Vienna, Austria
| | - Bin Zhao
- Department
of Biochemistry, Vanderbilt University School
of Medicine, 2215 Garland Avenue, 607 Light Hall, Nashville, Tennessee 37232-0146, United States
| | - Nagaraju Miriyala
- Department
of Biochemistry, Vanderbilt University School
of Medicine, 2215 Garland Avenue, 607 Light Hall, Nashville, Tennessee 37232-0146, United States
| | - Danielle Sgubin
- Department
of Biochemistry, Vanderbilt University School
of Medicine, 2215 Garland Avenue, 607 Light Hall, Nashville, Tennessee 37232-0146, United States
| | - Stuart Fogarty
- Department
of Biochemistry, Vanderbilt University School
of Medicine, 2215 Garland Avenue, 607 Light Hall, Nashville, Tennessee 37232-0146, United States
| | - William J. Moore
- Leidos
Biomedical Research, Frederick National
Laboratory for Cancer Research, Frederick, Maryland 21701-4907, United States
| | - Gordon M. Stott
- Leidos
Biomedical Research, Frederick National
Laboratory for Cancer Research, Frederick, Maryland 21701-4907, United States
| | - Edward T. Olejniczak
- Department
of Biochemistry, Vanderbilt University School
of Medicine, 2215 Garland Avenue, 607 Light Hall, Nashville, Tennessee 37232-0146, United States
| | - Harald Engelhardt
- Discovery
Research, Boehringer Ingelheim Regional
Center Vienna GmbH & Co KG, 1120 Vienna, Austria
| | - Dorothea Rudolph
- Discovery
Research, Boehringer Ingelheim Regional
Center Vienna GmbH & Co KG, 1120 Vienna, Austria
| | - Taekyu Lee
- Department
of Biochemistry, Vanderbilt University School
of Medicine, 2215 Garland Avenue, 607 Light Hall, Nashville, Tennessee 37232-0146, United States
| | - Darryl B. McConnell
- Discovery
Research, Boehringer Ingelheim Regional
Center Vienna GmbH & Co KG, 1120 Vienna, Austria
| | - Stephen W. Fesik
- Department
of Biochemistry, Vanderbilt University School
of Medicine, 2215 Garland Avenue, 607 Light Hall, Nashville, Tennessee 37232-0146, United States
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8
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Suo S, Sun S, Nguyen LXT, Qian J, Li F, Zhao D, Yu W, Lou Y, Zhu H, Tong H, Yang M, Huang X, Zhao S, Qiao J, Liang C, Wang H, Zhang Y, Zhang X, Hoang DH, Chen F, Kang H, Valerio M, Sun J, Ghoda L, Li L, Marcucci G, Zhang B, Jin J. Homoharringtonine synergizes with venetoclax in early T cell progenitor acute lymphoblastic leukemia: Bench and bed. MED 2024:S2666-6340(24)00300-3. [PMID: 39151422 DOI: 10.1016/j.medj.2024.07.018] [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: 08/14/2023] [Revised: 04/26/2024] [Accepted: 07/22/2024] [Indexed: 08/19/2024]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Early T cell precursor acute lymphoblastic leukemia (ETP-ALL) is a distinct subtype of T-ALL with a poor prognosis. To find a cure, we examined the synergistic effect of homoharringtonine (HHT) in combination with the BCL-2 inhibitor venetoclax (VEN) in ETP-ALL. METHODS Using in vitro cellular assays and ETP-ALL xenograft models, we first investigated the synergistic activity of HHT and VEN in ETP-ALL. Next, to explore the underlying mechanism, we employed single-cell RNA sequencing of primary ETP-ALL cells treated with HHT or VEN alone or in combination and validated the results with western blot assays. Based on the promising preclinical results and given that both drugs have been approved for clinical use, we then assessed this combination in clinical practice. FINDINGS Our results showed that HHT synergizes strongly with VEN both in vitro and in vivo in ETP-ALL. Mechanistic studies demonstrated that the HHT/VEN combination concurrently downregulated key anti-apoptotic proteins, i.e., MCL1, leading to enhanced apoptosis. Importantly, the clinical results were very promising. Six patients with ETP-ALL with either refractory/relapsed (R/R) or newly diagnosed disease were treated with an HHT/VEN-based regimen. All patients achieved complete remission (CR) after only one cycle of treatment. CONCLUSIONS Our findings demonstrate that a combination of HHT/VEN is effective on ETP-ALL and represents the "backbone" of a promising and safe regimen for newly diagnosed and R/R patients with ETP-ALL. FUNDING This work was funded by the National Cancer Institute, Gehr Family Foundation, George Hoag Family Foundation, National Natural Science Foundation of China, and Key Research and Development Program of Zhejiang Province of China.
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Affiliation(s)
- Shanshan Suo
- Department of Hematology, The First Affiliated Hospital, Zhejiang University School of Medicine, Hangzhou, P.R. China; Hematology Malignancies Research Institute, Gehr Family Center for Leukemia Research, City of Hope Medical Center, Duarte, CA, USA; Zhejiang Provincial Key Lab of Hematopoietic Malignancy, Zhejiang University, Hangzhou, Zhejiang, P.R. China; Zhejiang University Cancer Center, Hangzhou, Zhejiang, P.R. China
| | - Shu Sun
- Department of Hematology, The First Affiliated Hospital, Zhejiang University School of Medicine, Hangzhou, P.R. China; Zhejiang Provincial Key Lab of Hematopoietic Malignancy, Zhejiang University, Hangzhou, Zhejiang, P.R. China; Zhejiang University Cancer Center, Hangzhou, Zhejiang, P.R. China
| | - Le Xuan Truong Nguyen
- Hematology Malignancies Research Institute, Gehr Family Center for Leukemia Research, City of Hope Medical Center, Duarte, CA, USA
| | - Jiejing Qian
- Department of Hematology, The First Affiliated Hospital, Zhejiang University School of Medicine, Hangzhou, P.R. China; Zhejiang Provincial Key Lab of Hematopoietic Malignancy, Zhejiang University, Hangzhou, Zhejiang, P.R. China; Zhejiang University Cancer Center, Hangzhou, Zhejiang, P.R. China
| | - Fenglin Li
- Zhejiang Provincial Key Lab of Hematopoietic Malignancy, Zhejiang University, Hangzhou, Zhejiang, P.R. China
| | - Dandan Zhao
- Hematology Malignancies Research Institute, Gehr Family Center for Leukemia Research, City of Hope Medical Center, Duarte, CA, USA
| | - Wenjuan Yu
- Department of Hematology, The First Affiliated Hospital, Zhejiang University School of Medicine, Hangzhou, P.R. China; Zhejiang Provincial Key Lab of Hematopoietic Malignancy, Zhejiang University, Hangzhou, Zhejiang, P.R. China; Zhejiang University Cancer Center, Hangzhou, Zhejiang, P.R. China
| | - Yinjun Lou
- Department of Hematology, The First Affiliated Hospital, Zhejiang University School of Medicine, Hangzhou, P.R. China; Zhejiang Provincial Key Lab of Hematopoietic Malignancy, Zhejiang University, Hangzhou, Zhejiang, P.R. China; Zhejiang University Cancer Center, Hangzhou, Zhejiang, P.R. China
| | - Honghu Zhu
- Department of Hematology, The First Affiliated Hospital, Zhejiang University School of Medicine, Hangzhou, P.R. China; Zhejiang Provincial Key Lab of Hematopoietic Malignancy, Zhejiang University, Hangzhou, Zhejiang, P.R. China; Zhejiang University Cancer Center, Hangzhou, Zhejiang, P.R. China
| | - Hongyan Tong
- Department of Hematology, The First Affiliated Hospital, Zhejiang University School of Medicine, Hangzhou, P.R. China; Zhejiang Provincial Key Lab of Hematopoietic Malignancy, Zhejiang University, Hangzhou, Zhejiang, P.R. China; Zhejiang University Cancer Center, Hangzhou, Zhejiang, P.R. China
| | - Min Yang
- Department of Hematology, The First Affiliated Hospital, Zhejiang University School of Medicine, Hangzhou, P.R. China; Zhejiang Provincial Key Lab of Hematopoietic Malignancy, Zhejiang University, Hangzhou, Zhejiang, P.R. China; Zhejiang University Cancer Center, Hangzhou, Zhejiang, P.R. China
| | - Xin Huang
- Zhejiang Provincial Key Lab of Hematopoietic Malignancy, Zhejiang University, Hangzhou, Zhejiang, P.R. China
| | - Shuqi Zhao
- Zhejiang Provincial Key Lab of Hematopoietic Malignancy, Zhejiang University, Hangzhou, Zhejiang, P.R. China
| | - Junjing Qiao
- Hematology Malignancies Research Institute, Gehr Family Center for Leukemia Research, City of Hope Medical Center, Duarte, CA, USA
| | - Chen Liang
- Hematology Malignancies Research Institute, Gehr Family Center for Leukemia Research, City of Hope Medical Center, Duarte, CA, USA
| | - Huafeng Wang
- Department of Hematology, The First Affiliated Hospital, Zhejiang University School of Medicine, Hangzhou, P.R. China; Zhejiang Provincial Key Lab of Hematopoietic Malignancy, Zhejiang University, Hangzhou, Zhejiang, P.R. China; Zhejiang University Cancer Center, Hangzhou, Zhejiang, P.R. China
| | - Yi Zhang
- Department of Hematology, The First Affiliated Hospital, Zhejiang University School of Medicine, Hangzhou, P.R. China; Zhejiang Provincial Key Lab of Hematopoietic Malignancy, Zhejiang University, Hangzhou, Zhejiang, P.R. China; Zhejiang University Cancer Center, Hangzhou, Zhejiang, P.R. China
| | - Xiang Zhang
- Department of Hematology, The First Affiliated Hospital, Zhejiang University School of Medicine, Hangzhou, P.R. China; Zhejiang Provincial Key Lab of Hematopoietic Malignancy, Zhejiang University, Hangzhou, Zhejiang, P.R. China; Zhejiang University Cancer Center, Hangzhou, Zhejiang, P.R. China
| | - Dinh Hoa Hoang
- Hematology Malignancies Research Institute, Gehr Family Center for Leukemia Research, City of Hope Medical Center, Duarte, CA, USA
| | - Fang Chen
- Hematology Malignancies Research Institute, Gehr Family Center for Leukemia Research, City of Hope Medical Center, Duarte, CA, USA
| | - Hyunjun Kang
- Hematology Malignancies Research Institute, Gehr Family Center for Leukemia Research, City of Hope Medical Center, Duarte, CA, USA
| | - Melissa Valerio
- Hematology Malignancies Research Institute, Gehr Family Center for Leukemia Research, City of Hope Medical Center, Duarte, CA, USA
| | - Jie Sun
- Zhejiang Provincial Key Lab of Hematopoietic Malignancy, Zhejiang University, Hangzhou, Zhejiang, P.R. China; Zhejiang University Cancer Center, Hangzhou, Zhejiang, P.R. China
| | - Lucy Ghoda
- Hematology Malignancies Research Institute, Gehr Family Center for Leukemia Research, City of Hope Medical Center, Duarte, CA, USA
| | - Ling Li
- Hematology Malignancies Research Institute, Gehr Family Center for Leukemia Research, City of Hope Medical Center, Duarte, CA, USA
| | - Guido Marcucci
- Hematology Malignancies Research Institute, Gehr Family Center for Leukemia Research, City of Hope Medical Center, Duarte, CA, USA.
| | - Bin Zhang
- Hematology Malignancies Research Institute, Gehr Family Center for Leukemia Research, City of Hope Medical Center, Duarte, CA, USA.
| | - Jie Jin
- Department of Hematology, The First Affiliated Hospital, Zhejiang University School of Medicine, Hangzhou, P.R. China; Zhejiang Provincial Key Lab of Hematopoietic Malignancy, Zhejiang University, Hangzhou, Zhejiang, P.R. China; Zhejiang University Cancer Center, Hangzhou, Zhejiang, P.R. China.
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9
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Zhang Y, Zheng Y, Zhang J, Xu C, Wu J. Apoptotic signaling pathways in bone metastatic lung cancer: a comprehensive analysis. Discov Oncol 2024; 15:310. [PMID: 39060849 PMCID: PMC11282049 DOI: 10.1007/s12672-024-01151-5] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/05/2024] [Accepted: 07/08/2024] [Indexed: 07/28/2024] Open
Abstract
This review provides a comprehensive analysis of apoptotic signaling pathways in the context of bone metastatic lung cancer, emphasizing the intricate molecular mechanisms and microenvironmental influences. Beginning with an overview of apoptosis in cancer, the paper explores the specific molecular characteristics of bone metastatic lung cancer, highlighting alterations in apoptotic pathways. Focused discussions delve into key apoptotic signaling pathways, including the intrinsic and extrinsic pathways, and the roles of critical molecular players such as Bcl-2 family proteins and caspases. Microenvironmental factors, such as the tumor microenvironment, extracellular matrix interactions, and immune cell involvement, are examined in depth. The review also addresses experimental approaches and techniques employed in studying apoptotic signaling, paving the way for a discussion on current therapeutic strategies, their limitations, and future prospects. This synthesis contributes a holistic understanding of apoptosis in bone metastatic lung cancer, offering insights for potential therapeutic advancements.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yi Zhang
- Department of Orthopedic Surgery, Ningbo No. 2 Hospital, Ningbo, 315010, Zhejiang, China
- Health Science Center, Ningbo University, Ningbo, 315211, Zhejiang, China
| | - Yi Zheng
- Department of Orthopedic Surgery, Ningbo No. 2 Hospital, Ningbo, 315010, Zhejiang, China
| | - Jiakai Zhang
- Department of Orthopedic Surgery, Ningbo No. 2 Hospital, Ningbo, 315010, Zhejiang, China
| | - Chaoyang Xu
- Hangzhou Medical College, Hangzhou, 310053, Zhejiang, China
| | - Junlong Wu
- Department of Orthopedic Surgery, Ningbo No. 2 Hospital, Ningbo, 315010, Zhejiang, China.
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10
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Yang J, Peng Y, Ding Y, Liu Y, Wang Y, Liu Y, Liu C. The Clinicopathological and Molecular Characteristics of Endocervical Gastric-Type Adenocarcinoma and the Use of Claudin18.2 as a Potential Therapeutic Target. Mod Pathol 2024; 37:100569. [PMID: 39025403 DOI: 10.1016/j.modpat.2024.100569] [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: 04/04/2024] [Revised: 06/12/2024] [Accepted: 07/10/2024] [Indexed: 07/20/2024]
Abstract
Endocervical gastric-type adenocarcinoma (GAS) is an aggressive type of endocervical mucinous adenocarcinoma characterized as being unrelated to human papillomavirus (HPV) and resistant to chemo/radiotherapy. In this study, we investigated the histology, immunohistochemistry patterns, and molecular characteristics in a large cohort of GAS (n = 62). Histologically, the majority of GAS cases exhibited a distinct morphology resembling gastric glands, although 2 exceptional cases exhibited HPV-associated adenocarcinoma morphology while retaining the characteristic histology of GAS at the invasive front. By immunohistochemistry, Claudin18.2 emerged as a highly sensitive and specific marker for GAS. Additionally, the strong expression of Claudin18.2 in patients with GAS indicated the potential of anti-Claudin18.2 therapy in the treatment of GAS. Other immunohistochemistry markers, including Muc6, p16, p53, Pax8, ER, and PR, may provide additional diagnostic clues for GAS. Quantitative methylation analysis revealed that the overexpression of Claudin18.2 in GAS was governed by the hypomethylation of the CLDN18.2 promoter CpG islands. To further elucidate the pathogenic mechanisms of GAS and its relationship with gastric adenocarcinoma, we performed whole exome sequencing on 11 GAS and 9 gastric adenocarcinomas. TP53, CDKN2A, STK11, and TTN emerged as the most frequently mutated genes in GAS. Mutations in these genes primarily affected cell growth, cell cycle regulation, senescence, and apoptosis. Intriguingly, these top mutated genes in GAS were also commonly mutated in gastric and pancreaticobiliary adenocarcinomas. Regarding germline variants, we identified a probably pathogenic variant in SPINK1, a gene linked to hereditary pancreatic cancer syndrome, in one GAS sample. This finding suggests a potential pathogenic link between pancreatic cancers and GAS. Overall, GAS exhibits molecular characteristics that resemble those observed in gastric and pancreaticobiliary adenocarcinomas, thereby lending support to the aggressive nature of GAS compared with HPV-associated adenocarcinoma.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jing Yang
- Department of Pathology, Third Hospital, School of Basic Medical Sciences, Peking University Health Science Center, Beijing, China
| | - Yang Peng
- Fourth Department of Gynecologic Oncology, Hunan Cancer Hospital/The Affiliated Cancer Hospital of Xiangya School of Medicine, Central South University, Changsha, China
| | - Yan Ding
- Department of Pathology, The Fourth Hospital of Hebei Medical University, Shijiazhuang, Hebei, China
| | - Yueping Liu
- Department of Pathology, The Fourth Hospital of Hebei Medical University, Shijiazhuang, Hebei, China
| | - Yuxiang Wang
- Department of Pathology, Third Hospital, School of Basic Medical Sciences, Peking University Health Science Center, Beijing, China
| | - Yan Liu
- Department of Pathology, Third Hospital, School of Basic Medical Sciences, Peking University Health Science Center, Beijing, China
| | - Congrong Liu
- Department of Pathology, Third Hospital, School of Basic Medical Sciences, Peking University Health Science Center, Beijing, China.
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11
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Matsui Y, Yamada T, Katayama Y, Hirai S, Sawada R, Tachibana Y, Ishida M, Kawachi H, Nakamura R, Nishioka N, Morimoto K, Iwasaku M, Horinaka M, Sakai T, Tokuda S, Takayama K. Initial AXL and MCL-1 inhibition contributes to abolishing lazertinib tolerance in EGFR-mutant lung cancer cells. Cancer Sci 2024. [PMID: 39039802 DOI: 10.1111/cas.16292] [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: 12/11/2023] [Revised: 06/26/2024] [Accepted: 07/05/2024] [Indexed: 07/24/2024] Open
Abstract
Lazertinib, a novel third-generation epidermal growth factor receptor tyrosine kinase inhibitor (EGFR-TKI), demonstrates marked efficacy in EGFR-mutant lung cancer. However, resistance commonly develops, prompting consideration of therapeutic strategies to overcome initial drug resistance mechanisms. This study aimed to elucidate the adaptive resistance to lazertinib and advocate novel combination treatments that demonstrate efficacy in preventing resistance as a first-line treatment for EGFR mutation-positive NSCLC. We found that AXL knockdown significantly inhibited lung cancer cell viability in the presence of lazertinib, indicating that AXL activation contributes to lazertinib resistance. However, long-term culture with a combination of lazertinib and AXL inhibitors led to residual cell proliferation and increased the MCL-1 expression level, which was mediated by the nuclear translocation of the transcription factor YAP. Triple therapy with an MCL-1 or YAP inhibitor in combination with lazertinib and an AXL inhibitor significantly reduced cell viability and increased the apoptosis rate. These results demonstrate that AXL and YAP/MCL-1 signals contribute to adaptive lazertinib resistance in EGFR-mutant lung cancer cells, suggesting that the initial dual inhibition of AXL and YAP/MCL-1 might be a highly effective strategy in eliminating lazertinib-resistant cells.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yohei Matsui
- Department of Pulmonary Medicine, Graduate School of Medical Science, Kyoto Prefectural University of Medicine, Kyoto, Japan
| | - Tadaaki Yamada
- Department of Pulmonary Medicine, Graduate School of Medical Science, Kyoto Prefectural University of Medicine, Kyoto, Japan
| | - Yuki Katayama
- Department of Pulmonary Medicine, Graduate School of Medical Science, Kyoto Prefectural University of Medicine, Kyoto, Japan
| | - Soichi Hirai
- Department of Pulmonary Medicine, Graduate School of Medical Science, Kyoto Prefectural University of Medicine, Kyoto, Japan
| | - Ryo Sawada
- Department of Pulmonary Medicine, Graduate School of Medical Science, Kyoto Prefectural University of Medicine, Kyoto, Japan
| | - Yusuke Tachibana
- Department of Pulmonary Medicine, Graduate School of Medical Science, Kyoto Prefectural University of Medicine, Kyoto, Japan
| | - Masaki Ishida
- Department of Pulmonary Medicine, Graduate School of Medical Science, Kyoto Prefectural University of Medicine, Kyoto, Japan
| | - Hayato Kawachi
- Department of Pulmonary Medicine, Graduate School of Medical Science, Kyoto Prefectural University of Medicine, Kyoto, Japan
| | - Ryota Nakamura
- Department of Pulmonary Medicine, Graduate School of Medical Science, Kyoto Prefectural University of Medicine, Kyoto, Japan
| | - Naoya Nishioka
- Department of Pulmonary Medicine, Graduate School of Medical Science, Kyoto Prefectural University of Medicine, Kyoto, Japan
| | - Kenji Morimoto
- Department of Pulmonary Medicine, Graduate School of Medical Science, Kyoto Prefectural University of Medicine, Kyoto, Japan
| | - Masahiro Iwasaku
- Department of Pulmonary Medicine, Graduate School of Medical Science, Kyoto Prefectural University of Medicine, Kyoto, Japan
| | - Mano Horinaka
- Department of Drug Discovery Medicine, Graduate School of Medical Science, Kyoto Prefectural University of Medicine, Kyoto, Japan
| | - Toshiyuki Sakai
- Department of Drug Discovery Medicine, Graduate School of Medical Science, Kyoto Prefectural University of Medicine, Kyoto, Japan
| | - Shinsaku Tokuda
- Department of Pulmonary Medicine, Graduate School of Medical Science, Kyoto Prefectural University of Medicine, Kyoto, Japan
| | - Koichi Takayama
- Department of Pulmonary Medicine, Graduate School of Medical Science, Kyoto Prefectural University of Medicine, Kyoto, Japan
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12
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Palominos C, Fuentes-Retamal S, Salazar JP, Guzmán-Rivera D, Correa P, Mellado M, Araya-Maturana R, Urra FA. Mitochondrial bioenergetics as a cell fate rheostat for responsive to Bcl-2 drugs: New cues for cancer chemotherapy. Cancer Lett 2024; 594:216965. [PMID: 38788967 DOI: 10.1016/j.canlet.2024.216965] [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: 03/05/2024] [Revised: 05/03/2024] [Accepted: 05/11/2024] [Indexed: 05/26/2024]
Abstract
Pro-survival BCL-2 proteins prevent the initiation of intrinsic apoptosis (mitochondria-dependent pathway) by inhibiting the pro-apoptotic proteins BAX and BAK, while BH3-only proteins promote apoptosis by blocking pro-survival BCL-2 proteins. Disruptions in this delicate balance contribute to cancer cell survival and chemoresistance. Recent advances in cancer therapeutics involve a new generation of drugs known as BH3-mimetics, which are small molecules designed to mimic the action of BH3-only proteins. Promising effects have been observed in patients with hematological and solid tumors undergoing treatment with these agents. However, the rapid emergence of mitochondria-dependent resistance to BH3-mimetics has been reported. This resistance involves increased mitochondrial respiration, altered mitophagy, and mitochondria with higher and tighter cristae. Conversely, mutations in isocitrate dehydrogenase 1 and 2, catalyzing R-2-hydroxyglutarate production, promote sensitivity to venetoclax. This evidence underscores the urgency for comprehensive studies on bioenergetics-based adaptive responses in both BH3 mimetics-sensitive and -resistant cancer cells. Ongoing clinical trials are evaluating BH3-mimetics in combination with standard chemotherapeutics. In this article, we discuss the role of mitochondrial bioenergetics in response to BH3-mimetics and explore potential therapeutic opportunities through metabolism-targeting strategies.
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Affiliation(s)
- Charlotte Palominos
- Metabolic Plasticity and Bioenergetics Laboratory, Clinical and Molecular Pharmacology Program, Institute of Biomedical Sciences (ICBM), Faculty of Medicine, University of Chile, Santiago, 8380453, Chile; Network for Snake Venom Research and Drug Discovery, Santiago, 8380453, Chile; Interdisciplinary Group on Mitochondrial Targeting and Bioenergetics (MIBI), Talca, 3480094, Chile
| | - Sebastián Fuentes-Retamal
- Metabolic Plasticity and Bioenergetics Laboratory, Clinical and Molecular Pharmacology Program, Institute of Biomedical Sciences (ICBM), Faculty of Medicine, University of Chile, Santiago, 8380453, Chile; Network for Snake Venom Research and Drug Discovery, Santiago, 8380453, Chile; Interdisciplinary Group on Mitochondrial Targeting and Bioenergetics (MIBI), Talca, 3480094, Chile; Universidad Andrés Bello. Escuela de Química y Farmacia, Facultad de Medicina, 8320000, Santiago, Chile
| | - Juan Pablo Salazar
- Metabolic Plasticity and Bioenergetics Laboratory, Clinical and Molecular Pharmacology Program, Institute of Biomedical Sciences (ICBM), Faculty of Medicine, University of Chile, Santiago, 8380453, Chile; Network for Snake Venom Research and Drug Discovery, Santiago, 8380453, Chile; Interdisciplinary Group on Mitochondrial Targeting and Bioenergetics (MIBI), Talca, 3480094, Chile
| | - Daniela Guzmán-Rivera
- Metabolic Plasticity and Bioenergetics Laboratory, Clinical and Molecular Pharmacology Program, Institute of Biomedical Sciences (ICBM), Faculty of Medicine, University of Chile, Santiago, 8380453, Chile; Universidad Andrés Bello. Escuela de Química y Farmacia, Facultad de Medicina, 8320000, Santiago, Chile
| | - Pablo Correa
- Metabolic Plasticity and Bioenergetics Laboratory, Clinical and Molecular Pharmacology Program, Institute of Biomedical Sciences (ICBM), Faculty of Medicine, University of Chile, Santiago, 8380453, Chile; Network for Snake Venom Research and Drug Discovery, Santiago, 8380453, Chile; Interdisciplinary Group on Mitochondrial Targeting and Bioenergetics (MIBI), Talca, 3480094, Chile
| | - Mathias Mellado
- Metabolic Plasticity and Bioenergetics Laboratory, Clinical and Molecular Pharmacology Program, Institute of Biomedical Sciences (ICBM), Faculty of Medicine, University of Chile, Santiago, 8380453, Chile; Network for Snake Venom Research and Drug Discovery, Santiago, 8380453, Chile
| | - Ramiro Araya-Maturana
- Network for Snake Venom Research and Drug Discovery, Santiago, 8380453, Chile; Interdisciplinary Group on Mitochondrial Targeting and Bioenergetics (MIBI), Talca, 3480094, Chile; Instituto de Química de Recursos Naturales, Universidad de Talca, Talca, 3460000, Chile
| | - Félix A Urra
- Metabolic Plasticity and Bioenergetics Laboratory, Clinical and Molecular Pharmacology Program, Institute of Biomedical Sciences (ICBM), Faculty of Medicine, University of Chile, Santiago, 8380453, Chile; Network for Snake Venom Research and Drug Discovery, Santiago, 8380453, Chile; Interdisciplinary Group on Mitochondrial Targeting and Bioenergetics (MIBI), Talca, 3480094, Chile; Interuniversity Center for Healthy Aging (CIES), Consortium of Universities of the State of Chile (CUECH), Santiago, 8320216, Chile.
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13
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Dolnikova A, Kazantsev D, Klanova M, Pokorna E, Sovilj D, Kelemen CD, Tuskova L, Hoferkova E, Mraz M, Helman K, Curik N, Machova Polakova K, Andera L, Trneny M, Klener P. Blockage of BCL-XL overcomes venetoclax resistance across BCL2+ lymphoid malignancies irrespective of BIM status. Blood Adv 2024; 8:3532-3543. [PMID: 38713893 PMCID: PMC11261020 DOI: 10.1182/bloodadvances.2024012906] [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: 02/14/2024] [Revised: 04/05/2024] [Accepted: 04/21/2024] [Indexed: 05/09/2024] Open
Abstract
ABSTRACT Venetoclax (VEN), a B-cell lymphoma 2 (BCL2) inhibitor, has a promising single-agent activity in mantle cell lymphoma (MCL), acute lymphoblastic leukemia (ALL), and large BCLs, but remissions were generally short, which call for rational drug combinations. Using a panel of 21 lymphoma and leukemia cell lines and 28 primary samples, we demonstrated strong synergy between VEN and A1155463, a BCL-XL inhibitor. Immunoprecipitation experiments and studies on clones with knockout of expression or transgenic expression of BCL-XL confirmed its key role in mediating inherent and acquired VEN resistance. Of note, the VEN and A1155463 combination was synthetically lethal even in the cell lines with lack of expression of the proapoptotic BCL2L11/BIM and in the derived clones with genetic knockout of BCL2L11/BIM. This is clinically important because BCL2L11/BIM deletion, downregulation, or sequestration results in VEN resistance. Immunoprecipitation experiments further suggested that the proapoptotic effector BAX belongs to principal mediators of the VEN and A1155463 mode of action in the BIM-deficient cells. Lastly, the efficacy of the new proapoptotic combination was confirmed in vivo on a panel of 9 patient-derived lymphoma xenografts models including MCL (n = 3), B-ALL (n = 2), T-ALL (n = 1), and diffuse large BCL (n = 3). Because continuous inhibition of BCL-XL causes thrombocytopenia, we proposed and tested an interrupted 4 days on/3 days off treatment regimen, which retained the desired antitumor synergy with manageable platelet toxicity. The proposed VEN and A1155463 combination represents an innovative chemotherapy-free regimen with significant preclinical activity across diverse BCL2+ hematologic malignancies irrespective of the BCL2L11/BIM status.
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Affiliation(s)
- Alexandra Dolnikova
- Institute of Pathological Physiology, First Faculty of Medicine, Charles University, Prague, Czech Republic
| | - Dmitry Kazantsev
- Institute of Pathological Physiology, First Faculty of Medicine, Charles University, Prague, Czech Republic
| | - Magdalena Klanova
- Institute of Pathological Physiology, First Faculty of Medicine, Charles University, Prague, Czech Republic
- First Department of Medicine, Department of Hematology, Charles University General Hospital, Prague, Czech Republic
| | - Eva Pokorna
- Institute of Pathological Physiology, First Faculty of Medicine, Charles University, Prague, Czech Republic
| | - Dana Sovilj
- Institute of Biotechnology Czech Academy of Sciences/Biotechnology and Biomedicine Centre of the Czech Academy of Sciences and Charles University, Vestec, Czech Republic
| | - Cristina Daniela Kelemen
- Institute of Biotechnology Czech Academy of Sciences/Biotechnology and Biomedicine Centre of the Czech Academy of Sciences and Charles University, Vestec, Czech Republic
| | - Liliana Tuskova
- Institute of Pathological Physiology, First Faculty of Medicine, Charles University, Prague, Czech Republic
- First Department of Medicine, Department of Hematology, Charles University General Hospital, Prague, Czech Republic
| | - Eva Hoferkova
- Molecular Medicine, Central European Institute of Technology, Masaryk University, Brno, Czech Republic
- Department of Internal Medicine, Hematology and Oncology, University Hospital Brno and Faculty of Medicine, Masaryk University, Brno, Czech Republic
| | - Marek Mraz
- Molecular Medicine, Central European Institute of Technology, Masaryk University, Brno, Czech Republic
- Department of Internal Medicine, Hematology and Oncology, University Hospital Brno and Faculty of Medicine, Masaryk University, Brno, Czech Republic
| | - Karel Helman
- Faculty of Informatics and Statistics, University of Economics, Prague, Czech Republic
| | - Nikola Curik
- Institute of Hematology and Blood Transfusion, Prague, Czech Republic
| | | | - Ladislav Andera
- Institute of Biotechnology Czech Academy of Sciences/Biotechnology and Biomedicine Centre of the Czech Academy of Sciences and Charles University, Vestec, Czech Republic
- Institute of Molecular Genetics CAS, Prague, Czech Republic
| | - Marek Trneny
- First Department of Medicine, Department of Hematology, Charles University General Hospital, Prague, Czech Republic
| | - Pavel Klener
- Institute of Pathological Physiology, First Faculty of Medicine, Charles University, Prague, Czech Republic
- First Department of Medicine, Department of Hematology, Charles University General Hospital, Prague, Czech Republic
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14
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Liu W, Khalid M, Wahab S, Faizan Siddiqui M, Hasan Khan S, Sadiq M, Khatoon Z. A multitier virtual screening study of phytoconstituents as Myeloid Cell Leukemias 1 inhibitors. J Biomol Struct Dyn 2024; 42:5219-5228. [PMID: 37418235 DOI: 10.1080/07391102.2023.2226739] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/11/2023] [Accepted: 06/09/2023] [Indexed: 07/08/2023]
Abstract
Myeloid Cell Leukemia 1 (MCL1) is an anti-apoptotic protein that plays a critical role in regulating cell survival, particularly in cancer cells. It is a member of the BCL-2 family of proteins, which control the intrinsic pathway of apoptosis. MCL1 has emerged as a promising target for cancer therapy because it is overexpressed in a wide range of cancers, including breast, lung, prostate, and hematologic malignancies. Due to its remarkable role in cancer progression, it has been reflected as a promising drug target for cancer therapy. A few MCL1 inhibitors have been identified previously, but further research is needed to develop novel, effective and safe MCL1 inhibitors that can overcome resistance mechanisms and minimize toxicity in normal cells. In this study, we aim to search for compounds that target the critical binding site of MCL1 from phytoconstituent library from the IMPPAT database. To accomplish this, a multitier virtual screening approach involving molecular docking and molecular dynamics simulations (MDS) were used to evaluate their suitability for the receptor. Notably, certain screened phytoconstituents have appreciable docking scores and stable interactions toward the binding pocket of MCL1. The screened compounds underwent ADMET and bioactivity analysis to establish their anticancer properties. One phytoconstituent, Isopongaflavone, was identified that exhibiting higher docking and drug-likeness than the already reported MCL1 inhibitor, Tapotoclax. Isopongaflavone and and Tapotoclax, along with MCL1, were subjected to 100 nanoseconds (ns) MDS study to verify their stability inside the binding site of MCL1. The MDS findings demonstrated a strong binding affinity between Isopongaflavone and the MCL1 binding pocket, resulting in reduced conformational fluctuations. This investigation proposes Isopongaflavone as a promising candidate for the development of innovative anticancer therapeutics, pending the necessary validation procedures. Also, the findings provide valuable information for designing MCL1 inhibitors based on the protein's structure.Communicated by Ramaswamy H. Sarma.
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Affiliation(s)
- Wenjun Liu
- School of Environment and Resources, Chongqing Technology and Business University, Chongqing, China
| | - Mohammad Khalid
- Department of Pharmacognosy, College of Pharmacy, Prince Sattam Bin Abdulaziz University, Al-Kharj, Saudi Arabia
| | - Shadma Wahab
- Department of Pharmacognosy, College of Pharmacy, King Khalid University, Abha, Saudi Arabia
| | | | - Shaheer Hasan Khan
- Enzymology and nanotechnology laboratory, Interdisciplinary Biotechnology Unit, Aligarh Muslim University, Aligarh, India
| | - Mohd Sadiq
- Department of Computer Science, Jamia Millia Islamia, New Delhi, India
| | - Zeenat Khatoon
- Centre for Interdisciplinary Research in Basic Sciences, Jamia Millia Islamia, New Delhi, India
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15
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Lance A, Chiad Z, Seegers SL, Paschall SC, Drummond K, Steuerwald NM, Yang HT, Chen J, Voorhees PM, Avalos BR, Druhan LJ. Hereditary chronic neutrophilic leukemia in a four-generation family without transformation to acute leukemia. Am J Hematol 2024. [PMID: 38934467 DOI: 10.1002/ajh.27420] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/27/2024] [Revised: 05/15/2024] [Accepted: 05/30/2024] [Indexed: 06/28/2024]
Abstract
Chronic neutrophilic leukemia (CNL) is a rare myeloproliferative neoplasm (MPN) characterized by peripheral blood neutrophilia, marrow granulocyte hyperplasia, hepatosplenomegaly, and driver mutations in the colony-stimulating factor 3 receptor (CSF3R). Designation of activating CSF3R mutations as a defining genomic abnormality for CNL has led to increased recognition of the disease. However, the natural history of CNL remains poorly understood with most patients reported being of older age, lacking germline data, and having poor survival, in part due to transformation to acute leukemia. CSF3R driver mutations in most patients with CNL have been reported to be acquired, although rare cases of germline mutations have been described. Here, we report the largest pedigree to date with familial CNL, spanning four generations with affected family members ranging in age from 4 to 53 years, none of whom have transformed to acute leukemia. A heterozygous T618I CSF3R mutation was identified in peripheral blood and mesenchymal stromal cells from the proband and in all affected living family members, while the unaffected family members tested were homozygous wild type. We show that the T618I mutation also confers a survival advantage to neutrophils in an MCL1-dependent manner. Collectively, these data provide additional insights into the natural history of familial CNL arising from T618I CSF3R mutations and suggest that enhanced neutrophil survival also contributes to the high neutrophil count observed in patients with CNL.
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Affiliation(s)
- Amanda Lance
- Hematology Oncology Translational Research Laboratory, Levine Cancer Institute, Atrium Health, Charlotte, North Carolina, USA
| | - Zane Chiad
- Department of Hematologic Oncology and Blood Disorders, Levine Cancer Institute, Atrium Health, Charlotte, North Carolina, USA
| | - Sara L Seegers
- Hematology Oncology Translational Research Laboratory, Levine Cancer Institute, Atrium Health, Charlotte, North Carolina, USA
| | - Sarah-Catherine Paschall
- Hematology Oncology Translational Research Laboratory, Levine Cancer Institute, Atrium Health, Charlotte, North Carolina, USA
| | - Kendra Drummond
- Hematology Oncology Translational Research Laboratory, Levine Cancer Institute, Atrium Health, Charlotte, North Carolina, USA
| | - Nury M Steuerwald
- Molecular Biology Core Laboratory, Levine Cancer Institute, Atrium Health, Charlotte, North Carolina, USA
| | - Hsih-Te Yang
- Department of Biostatistics and Data Sciences, Levine Cancer Institute, Atrium Health, Charlotte, North Carolina, USA
| | - Jenny Chen
- Department of Biostatistics and Data Sciences, Levine Cancer Institute, Atrium Health, Charlotte, North Carolina, USA
| | - Peter M Voorhees
- Department of Hematologic Oncology and Blood Disorders, Levine Cancer Institute, Atrium Health, Charlotte, North Carolina, USA
| | - Belinda R Avalos
- Hematology Oncology Translational Research Laboratory, Levine Cancer Institute, Atrium Health, Charlotte, North Carolina, USA
- Department of Hematologic Oncology and Blood Disorders, Levine Cancer Institute, Atrium Health, Charlotte, North Carolina, USA
| | - Lawrence J Druhan
- Hematology Oncology Translational Research Laboratory, Levine Cancer Institute, Atrium Health, Charlotte, North Carolina, USA
- Department of Hematologic Oncology and Blood Disorders, Levine Cancer Institute, Atrium Health, Charlotte, North Carolina, USA
- Department of Cancer Biology, Wake Forest University School of Medicine, Winston-Salem, North Carolina, USA
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16
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Nocquet L, Roul J, Lefebvre CC, Duarte L, Campone M, Juin PP, Souazé F. Low BCL-xL expression in triple-negative breast cancer cells favors chemotherapy efficacy, and this effect is limited by cancer-associated fibroblasts. Sci Rep 2024; 14:14177. [PMID: 38898061 PMCID: PMC11187150 DOI: 10.1038/s41598-024-64696-z] [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: 03/01/2024] [Accepted: 06/12/2024] [Indexed: 06/21/2024] Open
Abstract
Triple negative breast cancers (TNBC) present a poor prognosis primarily due to their resistance to chemotherapy. This resistance is known to be associated with elevated expression of certain anti-apoptotic members within the proteins of the BCL-2 family (namely BCL-xL, MCL-1 and BCL-2). These regulate cell death by inhibiting pro-apoptotic protein activation through binding and sequestration and they can be selectively antagonized by BH3 mimetics. Yet the individual influences of BCL-xL, MCL-1, and BCL-2 on the sensitivity of TNBC cells to chemotherapy, and their regulation by cancer-associated fibroblasts (CAFs), major components of the tumor stroma and key contributors to therapy resistance remain to be delineated. Using gene editing or BH3 mimetics to inhibit anti-apoptotic BCL-2 family proteins in TNBC line MDA-MB-231, we show that BCL-xL and MCL-1 promote cancer cell survival through compensatory mechanisms. This cell line shows limited sensitivity to chemotherapy, in line with the clinical resistance observed in TNBC patients. We elucidate that BCL-xL plays a pivotal role in therapy response, as its depletion or pharmacological inhibition heightened chemotherapy effectiveness. Moreover, BCL-xL expression is associated with chemotherapy resistance in patient-derived tumoroids where its pharmacological inhibition enhances ex vivo response to chemotherapy. In a co-culture model of cancer cells and CAFs, we observe that even in a context where BCL-xL reduced expression renders cancer cells more susceptible to chemotherapy, those in contact with CAFs display reduced sensitivity to chemotherapy. Thus CAFs exert a profound pro-survival effect in breast cancer cells, even in a setting highly favoring cell death through combined chemotherapy and absence of the main actor of chemoresistance, BCL-xL.
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Affiliation(s)
- Lisa Nocquet
- INSERM, CNRS, CRCI2NA, Université de Nantes, 44000, Nantes, France
- Equipe Labellisée LIGUE Contre le Cancer, Paris, France
- SIRIC ILIAD, Nantes, Angers, France
| | - Julie Roul
- INSERM, CNRS, CRCI2NA, Université de Nantes, 44000, Nantes, France
- Equipe Labellisée LIGUE Contre le Cancer, Paris, France
- SIRIC ILIAD, Nantes, Angers, France
- ICO René Gauducheau, Saint Herblain, France
| | - Chloé C Lefebvre
- INSERM, CNRS, CRCI2NA, Université de Nantes, 44000, Nantes, France
- Equipe Labellisée LIGUE Contre le Cancer, Paris, France
- SIRIC ILIAD, Nantes, Angers, France
| | - Laurine Duarte
- INSERM, CNRS, CRCI2NA, Université de Nantes, 44000, Nantes, France
- Equipe Labellisée LIGUE Contre le Cancer, Paris, France
- SIRIC ILIAD, Nantes, Angers, France
| | - Mario Campone
- INSERM, CNRS, CRCI2NA, Université de Nantes, 44000, Nantes, France
- SIRIC ILIAD, Nantes, Angers, France
- ICO René Gauducheau, Saint Herblain, France
| | - Philippe P Juin
- INSERM, CNRS, CRCI2NA, Université de Nantes, 44000, Nantes, France.
- Equipe Labellisée LIGUE Contre le Cancer, Paris, France.
- SIRIC ILIAD, Nantes, Angers, France.
- ICO René Gauducheau, Saint Herblain, France.
| | - Frédérique Souazé
- INSERM, CNRS, CRCI2NA, Université de Nantes, 44000, Nantes, France.
- Equipe Labellisée LIGUE Contre le Cancer, Paris, France.
- SIRIC ILIAD, Nantes, Angers, France.
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17
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Alhammadi SHA, Baby B, Antony P, Jobe A, Humaid RSM, Alhammadi FJA, Vijayan R. Modeling the Binding of Anticancer Peptides and Mcl-1. Int J Mol Sci 2024; 25:6529. [PMID: 38928234 PMCID: PMC11203456 DOI: 10.3390/ijms25126529] [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: 03/29/2024] [Revised: 05/22/2024] [Accepted: 05/27/2024] [Indexed: 06/28/2024] Open
Abstract
Mcl-1 (myeloid cell leukemia 1), a member of the Bcl-2 family, is upregulated in various types of cancer. Peptides representing the BH3 (Bcl-2 homology 3) region of pro-apoptotic proteins have been demonstrated to bind the hydrophobic groove of anti-apoptotic Mcl-1, and this interaction is responsible for regulating apoptosis. Structural studies have shown that, while there is high overall structural conservation among the anti-apoptotic Bcl-2 (B-cell lymphoma 2) proteins, differences in the surface groove of these proteins facilitates binding specificity. This binding specificity is crucial for the mechanism of action of the Bcl-2 family in regulating apoptosis. Bim-based peptides bind specifically to the hydrophobic groove of Mcl-1, emphasizing the importance of these interactions in the regulation of cell death. Molecular docking was performed with BH3-like peptides derived from Bim to identify high affinity peptides that bind to Mcl-1 and to understand the molecular mechanism of their interactions. The interactions of three identified peptides, E2gY, E2gI, and XXA1_F3dI, were further evaluated using 250 ns molecular dynamics simulations. Conserved hydrophobic residues of the peptides play an important role in their binding and the structural stability of the complexes. Understanding the molecular basis of interaction of these peptides will assist in the development of more effective Mcl-1 specific inhibitors.
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Affiliation(s)
- Shamsa Husain Ahmed Alhammadi
- Department of Biology, College of Science, United Arab Emirates University, Al Ain P.O. Box 15551, United Arab Emirates
| | - Bincy Baby
- Department of Biology, College of Science, United Arab Emirates University, Al Ain P.O. Box 15551, United Arab Emirates
| | - Priya Antony
- Department of Biology, College of Science, United Arab Emirates University, Al Ain P.O. Box 15551, United Arab Emirates
| | - Amie Jobe
- Department of Biology, College of Science, United Arab Emirates University, Al Ain P.O. Box 15551, United Arab Emirates
| | - Raghad Salman Mohammed Humaid
- Department of Biology, College of Science, United Arab Emirates University, Al Ain P.O. Box 15551, United Arab Emirates
| | - Fatema Jumaa Ahmed Alhammadi
- Department of Biology, College of Science, United Arab Emirates University, Al Ain P.O. Box 15551, United Arab Emirates
| | - Ranjit Vijayan
- Department of Biology, College of Science, United Arab Emirates University, Al Ain P.O. Box 15551, United Arab Emirates
- The Big Data Analytics Center, United Arab Emirates University, Al Ain P.O. Box 15551, United Arab Emirates
- Zayed Center for Health Sciences, United Arab Emirates University, Al Ain P.O. Box 15551, United Arab Emirates
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18
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Nwosu GO, Ross DM, Powell JA, Pitson SM. Venetoclax therapy and emerging resistance mechanisms in acute myeloid leukaemia. Cell Death Dis 2024; 15:413. [PMID: 38866760 PMCID: PMC11169396 DOI: 10.1038/s41419-024-06810-7] [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: 03/21/2024] [Revised: 06/05/2024] [Accepted: 06/05/2024] [Indexed: 06/14/2024]
Abstract
Acute myeloid leukaemia (AML) is a highly aggressive and devastating malignancy of the bone marrow and blood. For decades, intensive chemotherapy has been the frontline treatment for AML but has yielded only poor patient outcomes as exemplified by a 5-year survival rate of < 30%, even in younger adults. As knowledge of the molecular underpinnings of AML has advanced, so too has the development new strategies with potential to improve the treatment of AML patients. To date the most promising of these targeted agents is the BH3-mimetic venetoclax which in combination with standard of care therapies, has manageable non-haematological toxicity and exhibits impressive efficacy. However, approximately 30% of AML patients fail to respond to venetoclax-based regimens and almost all treatment responders eventually relapse. Here, we review the emerging mechanisms of intrinsic and acquired venetoclax resistance in AML and highlight recent efforts to identify novel strategies to overcome resistance to venetoclax.
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Affiliation(s)
- Gus O Nwosu
- Centre for Cancer Biology, University of South Australia and SA Pathology, Adelaide, SA, Australia
- Clinical and Health Sciences, University of South Australia, Adelaide, SA, Australia
| | - David M Ross
- Centre for Cancer Biology, University of South Australia and SA Pathology, Adelaide, SA, Australia
- Adelaide Medical School, Faculty of Health Sciences, University of Adelaide, Adelaide, SA, Australia
- Department of Haematology, Royal Adelaide Hospital, Central Adelaide Local Health Network, Adelaide, SA, Australia
- Department of Haematology, Flinders University and Medical Centre, Adelaide, SA, Australia
| | - Jason A Powell
- Centre for Cancer Biology, University of South Australia and SA Pathology, Adelaide, SA, Australia.
- Adelaide Medical School, Faculty of Health Sciences, University of Adelaide, Adelaide, SA, Australia.
| | - Stuart M Pitson
- Centre for Cancer Biology, University of South Australia and SA Pathology, Adelaide, SA, Australia.
- Adelaide Medical School, Faculty of Health Sciences, University of Adelaide, Adelaide, SA, Australia.
- School of Biological Sciences, University of Adelaide, Adelaide, SA, Australia.
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19
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Wang H, Qi Z, Lian W, Ma L, Wang S, Liu H, Jin Y, Yang H, Wang J, Cheng M. Application of molecular dynamics-based pharmacophore and machine learning approaches to identify novel Mcl1 inhibitors through drug repurposing and mechanics research. Phys Chem Chem Phys 2024; 26:16107-16124. [PMID: 38780456 DOI: 10.1039/d4cp00576g] [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: 05/25/2024]
Abstract
Myeloid cell leukemia 1 (Mcl1), a critical protein that regulates apoptosis, has been considered as a promising target for antitumor drugs. The conventional pharmacophore screening approach has limitations in conformation sampling and data mining. Here, we offered an innovative solution to identify Mcl1 inhibitors with molecular dynamics-refined pharmacophore and machine learning methods. Considering the safety and druggability of FDA-approved drugs, virtual screening of the database was performed to discover Mcl1 inhibitors, and the hit was subsequently validated via TR-FRET, cytotoxicity, and flow cytometry assays. To reveal the binding characteristics shared by the hit and a typical Mcl1 selective inhibitor, we employed quantum mechanics and molecular mechanics (QM/MM) calculations, umbrella sampling, and metadynamics in this work. The combined studies suggested that fluvastatin had promising cell inhibitory potency and was suitable for further investigation. We believe that this research will shed light on the discovery of novel Mcl1 inhibitors that can be used as a supplemental treatment against leukemia and provide a possible method to improve the accuracy of drug repurposing with limited computational resources while balancing the costs of experimentation well.
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Affiliation(s)
- Hanxun Wang
- Key Laboratory of Structure-Based Drug Design & Discovery, Ministry of Education, Shenyang Pharmaceutical University, Shenyang 110016, Liaoning, P. R. China.
| | - Zhuo Qi
- Key Laboratory of Structure-Based Drug Design & Discovery, Ministry of Education, Shenyang Pharmaceutical University, Shenyang 110016, Liaoning, P. R. China.
| | - Wenxiong Lian
- Key Laboratory of Structure-Based Drug Design & Discovery, Ministry of Education, Shenyang Pharmaceutical University, Shenyang 110016, Liaoning, P. R. China.
| | - Lanyan Ma
- Key Laboratory of Structure-Based Drug Design & Discovery, Ministry of Education, Shenyang Pharmaceutical University, Shenyang 110016, Liaoning, P. R. China.
| | - Shizun Wang
- Key Laboratory of Structure-Based Drug Design & Discovery, Ministry of Education, Shenyang Pharmaceutical University, Shenyang 110016, Liaoning, P. R. China.
| | - Haihan Liu
- Key Laboratory of Structure-Based Drug Design & Discovery, Ministry of Education, Shenyang Pharmaceutical University, Shenyang 110016, Liaoning, P. R. China.
| | - Yu Jin
- Key Laboratory of Structure-Based Drug Design & Discovery, Ministry of Education, Shenyang Pharmaceutical University, Shenyang 110016, Liaoning, P. R. China.
| | - Huali Yang
- Key Laboratory of Structure-Based Drug Design & Discovery, Ministry of Education, Shenyang Pharmaceutical University, Shenyang 110016, Liaoning, P. R. China.
| | - Jian Wang
- School of Pharmaceutical Engineering, Shenyang Pharmaceutical University, 103 Wenhua Road, Shenhe District, Shenyang, 110016, Liaoning, P. R. China.
| | - Maosheng Cheng
- Key Laboratory of Structure-Based Drug Design & Discovery, Ministry of Education, Shenyang Pharmaceutical University, Shenyang 110016, Liaoning, P. R. China.
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20
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Duan L, Tadi MJ, O'Hara KM, Maki CG. Novel markers of MCL1 inhibitor sensitivity in triple-negative breast cancer cells. J Biol Chem 2024; 300:107375. [PMID: 38762181 PMCID: PMC11208921 DOI: 10.1016/j.jbc.2024.107375] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/01/2023] [Revised: 04/15/2024] [Accepted: 05/07/2024] [Indexed: 05/20/2024] Open
Abstract
Triple-negative breast cancer (TNBC) is an aggressive breast cancer sub-type with limited treatment options and poor prognosis. Currently, standard treatments for TNBC include surgery, chemotherapy, and anti-PDL1 therapy. These therapies have limited efficacy in advanced stages. Myeloid-cell leukemia 1 (MCL1) is an anti-apoptotic BCL2 family protein. High expression of MCL1 contributes to chemotherapy resistance and is associated with a worse prognosis in TNBC. MCL1 inhibitors are in clinical trials for TNBC, but response rates to these inhibitors can vary and predictive markers are lacking. Currently, we identified a 4-member (AXL, ETS1, IL6, EFEMP1) gene signature (GS) that predicts MCL1 inhibitor sensitivity in TNBC cells. Factors encoded by these genes regulate signaling pathways to promote MCL1 inhibitor resistance. Small molecule inhibitors of the GS factors can overcome resistance and sensitize otherwise resistant TNBC cells to MCL1 inhibitor treatment. These findings offer insights into potential therapeutic strategies and tumor stratification for MCL1 inhibitor use in TNBC.
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Affiliation(s)
- Lei Duan
- Department of Anatomy and Cell Biology, Rush University Medical Center, Chicago, Illinois, USA.
| | - Mehrdad Jafari Tadi
- Department of Anatomy and Cell Biology, Rush University Medical Center, Chicago, Illinois, USA
| | - Kelsey M O'Hara
- Department of Anatomy and Cell Biology, Rush University Medical Center, Chicago, Illinois, USA
| | - Carl G Maki
- Department of Anatomy and Cell Biology, Rush University Medical Center, Chicago, Illinois, USA.
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21
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Yang Y, Ahmad E, Premkumar V, Liu A, Ashikur Rahman SM, Nikolovska‐Coleska Z. Structural studies of intrinsically disordered MLL-fusion protein AF9 in complex with peptidomimetic inhibitors. Protein Sci 2024; 33:e5019. [PMID: 38747396 PMCID: PMC11094776 DOI: 10.1002/pro.5019] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/11/2023] [Revised: 04/23/2024] [Accepted: 04/28/2024] [Indexed: 05/19/2024]
Abstract
AF9 (MLLT3) and its paralog ENL(MLLT1) are members of the YEATS family of proteins with important role in transcriptional and epigenetic regulatory complexes. These proteins are two common MLL fusion partners in MLL-rearranged leukemias. The oncofusion proteins MLL-AF9/ENL recruit multiple binding partners, including the histone methyltransferase DOT1L, leading to aberrant transcriptional activation and enhancing the expression of a characteristic set of genes that drive leukemogenesis. The interaction between AF9 and DOT1L is mediated by an intrinsically disordered C-terminal ANC1 homology domain (AHD) in AF9, which undergoes folding upon binding of DOT1L and other partner proteins. We have recently reported peptidomimetics that disrupt the recruitment of DOT1L by AF9 and ENL, providing a proof-of-concept for targeting AHD and assessing its druggability. Intrinsically disordered proteins, such as AF9 AHD, are difficult to study and characterize experimentally on a structural level. In this study, we present a successful protein engineering strategy to facilitate structural investigation of the intrinsically disordered AF9 AHD domain in complex with peptidomimetic inhibitors by using maltose binding protein (MBP) as a crystallization chaperone connected with linkers of varying flexibility and length. The strategic incorporation of disulfide bonds provided diffraction-quality crystals of the two disulfide-bridged MBP-AF9 AHD fusion proteins in complex with the peptidomimetics. These successfully determined first series of 2.1-2.6 Å crystal complex structures provide high-resolution insights into the interactions between AHD and its inhibitors, shedding light on the role of AHD in recruiting various binding partner proteins. We show that the overall complex structures closely resemble the reported NMR structure of AF9 AHD/DOT1L with notable difference in the conformation of the β-hairpin region, stabilized through conserved hydrogen bonds network. These first series of AF9 AHD/peptidomimetics complex structures are providing insights of the protein-inhibitor interactions and will facilitate further development of novel inhibitors targeting the AF9/ENL AHD domain.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yuting Yang
- Department of PathologyUniversity of Michigan Medical SchoolAnn ArborMichiganUSA
| | - Ejaz Ahmad
- Department of PathologyUniversity of Michigan Medical SchoolAnn ArborMichiganUSA
| | - Vidhya Premkumar
- Department of PathologyUniversity of Michigan Medical SchoolAnn ArborMichiganUSA
| | - Alicen Liu
- Department of PathologyUniversity of Michigan Medical SchoolAnn ArborMichiganUSA
| | - S. M. Ashikur Rahman
- Department of PathologyUniversity of Michigan Medical SchoolAnn ArborMichiganUSA
| | - Zaneta Nikolovska‐Coleska
- Department of PathologyUniversity of Michigan Medical SchoolAnn ArborMichiganUSA
- Rogel Cancer CenterUniversity of Michigan Medical SchoolAnn ArborMichiganUSA
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22
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Alboreggia G, Udompholkul P, Baggio C, Muzzarelli K, Assar Z, Pellecchia M. Histidine-Covalent Stapled Alpha-Helical Peptides Targeting hMcl-1. J Med Chem 2024; 67:8172-8185. [PMID: 38695666 PMCID: PMC11129181 DOI: 10.1021/acs.jmedchem.4c00277] [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: 01/30/2024] [Revised: 03/28/2024] [Accepted: 04/24/2024] [Indexed: 05/24/2024]
Abstract
Several novel and effective cysteine targeting (Cys) covalent drugs are in clinical use. However, the target area containing a druggable Cys residue is limited. Therefore, methods for creating covalent drugs that target different residues are being looked for; examples of such ligands include those that target the residues lysine (Lys) and tyrosine (Tyr). Though the histidine (His) side chain is more frequently found in protein binding locations and has higher desirable nucleophilicity, surprisingly limited research has been done to specifically target this residue, and there are not many examples of His-targeting ligands that have been rationally designed. In the current work, we created novel stapled peptides that are intended to target hMcl-1 His 252 covalently. We describe the in vitro (biochemical, NMR, and X-ray) and cellular design and characterization of such agents. Our findings further suggest that the use of electrophiles to specifically target His residues is warranted.
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Affiliation(s)
- Giulia Alboreggia
- Division
of Biomedical Sciences, School of Medicine, University of California Riverside, 900 University Avenue, Riverside, California 92521, United States
| | - Parima Udompholkul
- Division
of Biomedical Sciences, School of Medicine, University of California Riverside, 900 University Avenue, Riverside, California 92521, United States
| | - Carlo Baggio
- Division
of Biomedical Sciences, School of Medicine, University of California Riverside, 900 University Avenue, Riverside, California 92521, United States
| | - Kendall Muzzarelli
- Cayman
Chemical Co., 1180 E. Ellsworth road, Ann Arbor, Michigan 48108, United States
| | - Zahra Assar
- Cayman
Chemical Co., 1180 E. Ellsworth road, Ann Arbor, Michigan 48108, United States
| | - Maurizio Pellecchia
- Division
of Biomedical Sciences, School of Medicine, University of California Riverside, 900 University Avenue, Riverside, California 92521, United States
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23
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Krastinaite I, Charkavliuk S, Navakauskiene R, Borutinskaite VV. Metformin as an Enhancer for the Treatment of Chemoresistant CD34+ Acute Myeloid Leukemia Cells. Genes (Basel) 2024; 15:648. [PMID: 38790277 PMCID: PMC11121461 DOI: 10.3390/genes15050648] [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: 04/12/2024] [Revised: 05/14/2024] [Accepted: 05/16/2024] [Indexed: 05/26/2024] Open
Abstract
Acute myeloid leukemia is the second most frequent type of leukemia in adults. Due to a high risk of development of chemoresistance to first-line chemotherapy, the survival rate of patients in a 5-year period is below 30%. One of the reasons is that the AML population is heterogeneous, with cell populations partly composed of very primitive CD34+CD38- hematopoietic stem/progenitor cells, which are often resistant to chemotherapy. First-line treatment with cytarabine and idarubicin fails to inhibit the proliferation of CD34+CD38- cells. In this study, we investigated Metformin's effect with or without first-line conventional chemotherapy, or with other drugs like venetoclax and S63845, on primitive and undifferentiated CD34+ AML cells in order to explore the potential of Metformin or S63845 to serve as adjuvant therapy for AML. We found that first-line conventional chemotherapy treatment inhibited the growth of cells and arrested the cells in the S phase of the cell cycle; however, metformin affected the accumulation of cells in the G2/M phase. We observed that CD34+ KG1a cells respond better to lower doses of cytarabine or idarubicin in combination with metformin. Also, we determined that treatment with cytarabine, venetoclax, and S63845 downregulated the strong tendency of CD34+ KG1a cells to form cell aggregates in culture due to the downregulation of leukemic stem cell markers like CD34 and CD44, as well as adhesion markers. Also, we found that idarubicin slightly upregulated myeloid differentiation markers, CD11b and CD14. Treatment with cytarabine, idarubicin, venetoclax, metformin, and S63845 upregulated some cell surface markers like HLA-DR expression, and metformin upregulated CD9, CD31, and CD105 cell surface marker expression. In conclusion, we believe that metformin has the potential to be used as an adjuvant in the treatment of resistant-to-first-line-chemotherapy AML cells. Also, we believe that the results of our study will stimulate further research and the potential use of changes in the expression of cell surface markers in the development of new therapeutic strategies.
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MESH Headings
- Humans
- Metformin/pharmacology
- Leukemia, Myeloid, Acute/drug therapy
- Leukemia, Myeloid, Acute/genetics
- Leukemia, Myeloid, Acute/metabolism
- Leukemia, Myeloid, Acute/pathology
- Drug Resistance, Neoplasm/drug effects
- Antigens, CD34/metabolism
- Cell Line, Tumor
- Cytarabine/pharmacology
- Cell Proliferation/drug effects
- Sulfonamides/pharmacology
- Bridged Bicyclo Compounds, Heterocyclic/pharmacology
- Idarubicin/pharmacology
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Affiliation(s)
| | | | | | - Veronika Viktorija Borutinskaite
- Department of Molecular Cell Biology, Institute of Biochemistry, Life Sciences Center, Vilnius University, Sauletekio Av. 7, LT-10257 Vilnius, Lithuania; (I.K.); (S.C.); (R.N.)
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24
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Diepstraten ST, Yuan Y, La Marca JE, Young S, Chang C, Whelan L, Ross AM, Fischer KC, Pomilio G, Morris R, Georgiou A, Litalien V, Brown FC, Roberts AW, Strasser A, Wei AH, Kelly GL. Putting the STING back into BH3-mimetic drugs for TP53-mutant blood cancers. Cancer Cell 2024; 42:850-868.e9. [PMID: 38670091 DOI: 10.1016/j.ccell.2024.04.004] [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: 07/23/2023] [Revised: 01/06/2024] [Accepted: 04/04/2024] [Indexed: 04/28/2024]
Abstract
TP53-mutant blood cancers remain a clinical challenge. BH3-mimetic drugs inhibit BCL-2 pro-survival proteins, inducing cancer cell apoptosis. Despite acting downstream of p53, functional p53 is required for maximal cancer cell killing by BH3-mimetics through an unknown mechanism. Here, we report p53 is activated following BH3-mimetic induced mitochondrial outer membrane permeabilization, leading to BH3-only protein induction and thereby potentiating the pro-apoptotic signal. TP53-deficient lymphomas lack this feedforward loop, providing opportunities for survival and disease relapse after BH3-mimetic treatment. The therapeutic barrier imposed by defects in TP53 can be overcome by direct activation of the cGAS/STING pathway, which promotes apoptosis of blood cancer cells through p53-independent BH3-only protein upregulation. Combining clinically relevant STING agonists with BH3-mimetic drugs efficiently kills TRP53/TP53-mutant mouse B lymphoma, human NK/T lymphoma, and acute myeloid leukemia cells. This represents a promising therapy regime that can be fast-tracked to tackle TP53-mutant blood cancers in the clinic.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sarah T Diepstraten
- Blood Cells and Blood Cancer Division, The Walter and Eliza Hall Institute of Medical Research, Parkville, VIC 3052, Australia; Department of Medical Biology, University of Melbourne, Parkville, VIC 3052, Australia.
| | - Yin Yuan
- Blood Cells and Blood Cancer Division, The Walter and Eliza Hall Institute of Medical Research, Parkville, VIC 3052, Australia; Department of Medical Biology, University of Melbourne, Parkville, VIC 3052, Australia; Department of Clinical Haematology, Peter MacCallum Cancer Centre and Royal Melbourne Hospital, Melbourne, VIC 3050, Australia
| | - John E La Marca
- Blood Cells and Blood Cancer Division, The Walter and Eliza Hall Institute of Medical Research, Parkville, VIC 3052, Australia; Department of Medical Biology, University of Melbourne, Parkville, VIC 3052, Australia; Genome Engineering and Cancer Modelling Program, Olivia Newton-John Cancer Research Institute, Heidelberg, VIC 3084, Australia; School of Cancer Medicine, La Trobe University, Melbourne, VIC 3086, Australia
| | - Savannah Young
- Blood Cells and Blood Cancer Division, The Walter and Eliza Hall Institute of Medical Research, Parkville, VIC 3052, Australia
| | - Catherine Chang
- Blood Cells and Blood Cancer Division, The Walter and Eliza Hall Institute of Medical Research, Parkville, VIC 3052, Australia
| | - Lauren Whelan
- Blood Cells and Blood Cancer Division, The Walter and Eliza Hall Institute of Medical Research, Parkville, VIC 3052, Australia
| | - Aisling M Ross
- Blood Cells and Blood Cancer Division, The Walter and Eliza Hall Institute of Medical Research, Parkville, VIC 3052, Australia; School of Medicine, Bernal Institute, Limerick Digital Cancer Research Centre & Health Research Institute, University of Limerick, Limerick, Ireland
| | - Karla C Fischer
- Blood Cells and Blood Cancer Division, The Walter and Eliza Hall Institute of Medical Research, Parkville, VIC 3052, Australia; Department of Medical Biology, University of Melbourne, Parkville, VIC 3052, Australia
| | - Giovanna Pomilio
- Blood Cells and Blood Cancer Division, The Walter and Eliza Hall Institute of Medical Research, Parkville, VIC 3052, Australia
| | - Rhiannon Morris
- Blood Cells and Blood Cancer Division, The Walter and Eliza Hall Institute of Medical Research, Parkville, VIC 3052, Australia; Department of Medical Biology, University of Melbourne, Parkville, VIC 3052, Australia
| | - Angela Georgiou
- Blood Cells and Blood Cancer Division, The Walter and Eliza Hall Institute of Medical Research, Parkville, VIC 3052, Australia
| | - Veronique Litalien
- Blood Cells and Blood Cancer Division, The Walter and Eliza Hall Institute of Medical Research, Parkville, VIC 3052, Australia
| | - Fiona C Brown
- Blood Cells and Blood Cancer Division, The Walter and Eliza Hall Institute of Medical Research, Parkville, VIC 3052, Australia; Department of Medical Biology, University of Melbourne, Parkville, VIC 3052, Australia; Australian Centre for Blood Diseases, Monash University, Melbourne, VIC 3004, Australia
| | - Andrew W Roberts
- Blood Cells and Blood Cancer Division, The Walter and Eliza Hall Institute of Medical Research, Parkville, VIC 3052, Australia; Department of Medical Biology, University of Melbourne, Parkville, VIC 3052, Australia; Department of Clinical Haematology, Peter MacCallum Cancer Centre and Royal Melbourne Hospital, Melbourne, VIC 3050, Australia
| | - Andreas Strasser
- Blood Cells and Blood Cancer Division, The Walter and Eliza Hall Institute of Medical Research, Parkville, VIC 3052, Australia; Department of Medical Biology, University of Melbourne, Parkville, VIC 3052, Australia
| | - Andrew H Wei
- Blood Cells and Blood Cancer Division, The Walter and Eliza Hall Institute of Medical Research, Parkville, VIC 3052, Australia; Department of Medical Biology, University of Melbourne, Parkville, VIC 3052, Australia; Department of Clinical Haematology, Peter MacCallum Cancer Centre and Royal Melbourne Hospital, Melbourne, VIC 3050, Australia
| | - Gemma L Kelly
- Blood Cells and Blood Cancer Division, The Walter and Eliza Hall Institute of Medical Research, Parkville, VIC 3052, Australia; Department of Medical Biology, University of Melbourne, Parkville, VIC 3052, Australia.
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25
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Yuan Z, van Delft MF, Li MX, Sumardy F, Smith BJ, Huang DCS, Lessene G, Khakam Y, Jin R, He S, Smith NA, Birkinshaw RW, Czabotar PE, Dewson G. Key residues in the VDAC2-BAK complex can be targeted to modulate apoptosis. PLoS Biol 2024; 22:e3002617. [PMID: 38696533 PMCID: PMC11098506 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pbio.3002617] [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: 12/23/2023] [Revised: 05/16/2024] [Accepted: 04/05/2024] [Indexed: 05/04/2024] Open
Abstract
BAK and BAX execute intrinsic apoptosis by permeabilising the mitochondrial outer membrane. Their activity is regulated through interactions with pro-survival BCL-2 family proteins and with non-BCL-2 proteins including the mitochondrial channel protein VDAC2. VDAC2 is important for bringing both BAK and BAX to mitochondria where they execute their apoptotic function. Despite this important function in apoptosis, while interactions with pro-survival family members are well characterised and have culminated in the development of drugs that target these interfaces to induce cancer cell apoptosis, the interaction between BAK and VDAC2 remains largely undefined. Deep scanning mutagenesis coupled with cysteine linkage identified key residues in the interaction between BAK and VDAC2. Obstructive labelling of specific residues in the BH3 domain or hydrophobic groove of BAK disrupted this interaction. Conversely, mutating specific residues in a cytosol-exposed region of VDAC2 stabilised the interaction with BAK and inhibited BAK apoptotic activity. Thus, this VDAC2-BAK interaction site can potentially be targeted to either inhibit BAK-mediated apoptosis in scenarios where excessive apoptosis contributes to disease or to promote BAK-mediated apoptosis for cancer therapy.
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Affiliation(s)
- Zheng Yuan
- Walter and Eliza Hall Institute of Medical Research, Parkville, Melbourne, Australia
- Department of Medical Biology, University of Melbourne, Parkville, Melbourne, Australia
| | - Mark F. van Delft
- Walter and Eliza Hall Institute of Medical Research, Parkville, Melbourne, Australia
- Department of Medical Biology, University of Melbourne, Parkville, Melbourne, Australia
| | - Mark Xiang Li
- Peter MacCallum Cancer Centre, Parkville, Melbourne, Australia
| | - Fransisca Sumardy
- Walter and Eliza Hall Institute of Medical Research, Parkville, Melbourne, Australia
| | - Brian J. Smith
- La Trobe Institute for Molecular Science, La Trobe University, Melbourne, Australia
| | - David C. S. Huang
- Walter and Eliza Hall Institute of Medical Research, Parkville, Melbourne, Australia
- Department of Medical Biology, University of Melbourne, Parkville, Melbourne, Australia
| | - Guillaume Lessene
- Walter and Eliza Hall Institute of Medical Research, Parkville, Melbourne, Australia
- Department of Medical Biology, University of Melbourne, Parkville, Melbourne, Australia
- Department of Biochemistry and Pharmacology, University of Melbourne, Parkville, Melbourne, Australia
| | - Yelena Khakam
- Walter and Eliza Hall Institute of Medical Research, Parkville, Melbourne, Australia
| | - Ruitao Jin
- La Trobe Institute for Molecular Science, La Trobe University, Melbourne, Australia
- Research School of Biology, Australian National University, Canberra, Australia
| | - Sitong He
- La Trobe Institute for Molecular Science, La Trobe University, Melbourne, Australia
| | - Nicholas A. Smith
- La Trobe Institute for Molecular Science, La Trobe University, Melbourne, Australia
| | - Richard W. Birkinshaw
- Walter and Eliza Hall Institute of Medical Research, Parkville, Melbourne, Australia
- Department of Medical Biology, University of Melbourne, Parkville, Melbourne, Australia
| | - Peter E. Czabotar
- Walter and Eliza Hall Institute of Medical Research, Parkville, Melbourne, Australia
- Department of Medical Biology, University of Melbourne, Parkville, Melbourne, Australia
| | - Grant Dewson
- Walter and Eliza Hall Institute of Medical Research, Parkville, Melbourne, Australia
- Department of Medical Biology, University of Melbourne, Parkville, Melbourne, Australia
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26
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Fowler-Shorten DJ, Hellmich C, Markham M, Bowles KM, Rushworth SA. BCL-2 inhibition in haematological malignancies: Clinical application and complications. Blood Rev 2024; 65:101195. [PMID: 38523032 DOI: 10.1016/j.blre.2024.101195] [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: 01/10/2024] [Revised: 03/19/2024] [Accepted: 03/20/2024] [Indexed: 03/26/2024]
Abstract
B-cell lymphoma-2 (BCL-2) family proteins are fundamental regulators of the intrinsic apoptotic pathway which modulate cellular fate. In many haematological malignancies, overexpression of anti-apoptotic factors (BCL-2, BCL-XL and MCL-1) circumvent apoptosis. To address this cancer hallmark, a concerted effort has been made to induce apoptosis by inhibiting BCL-2 family proteins. A series of highly selective BCL-2 homology 3 (BH3) domain mimetics are in clinical use and in ongoing clinical trials for acute myeloid leukaemia (AML), chronic myeloid leukaemia (CML), chronic lymphocytic leukaemia (CLL), and multiple myeloma (MM). These inhibitors serve as promising candidates, both as single agents or in combination therapy to improve patient outcomes. In other diseases such as follicular lymphoma, efficacy has been notably limited. There are also clinical problems with BCL-2 family inhibition, including drug resistance, disease relapse, tumour lysis syndrome, and clinically relevant cytopenias. Here, we provide a balanced view on both the clinical benefits of BCL-2 inhibition as well as the associated challenges.
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Affiliation(s)
- Dominic J Fowler-Shorten
- Centre for Metabolic Health, Norwich Medical School, University of East Anglia, Norwich Research Park, Norwich NR4 7UQ, UK
| | - Charlotte Hellmich
- Centre for Metabolic Health, Norwich Medical School, University of East Anglia, Norwich Research Park, Norwich NR4 7UQ, UK; Department of Haematology, Norfolk and Norwich University Hospital NHS Trust, Colney Lane, Norwich NR4 7UY, UK
| | - Matthew Markham
- Centre for Metabolic Health, Norwich Medical School, University of East Anglia, Norwich Research Park, Norwich NR4 7UQ, UK
| | - Kristian M Bowles
- Centre for Metabolic Health, Norwich Medical School, University of East Anglia, Norwich Research Park, Norwich NR4 7UQ, UK; Department of Haematology, Norfolk and Norwich University Hospital NHS Trust, Colney Lane, Norwich NR4 7UY, UK
| | - Stuart A Rushworth
- Centre for Metabolic Health, Norwich Medical School, University of East Anglia, Norwich Research Park, Norwich NR4 7UQ, UK.
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27
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Iksen, Witayateeraporn W, Hardianti B, Pongrakhananon V. Comprehensive review of Bcl-2 family proteins in cancer apoptosis: Therapeutic strategies and promising updates of natural bioactive compounds and small molecules. Phytother Res 2024; 38:2249-2275. [PMID: 38415799 DOI: 10.1002/ptr.8157] [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: 10/31/2023] [Revised: 01/04/2024] [Accepted: 01/29/2024] [Indexed: 02/29/2024]
Abstract
Cancer has a considerably higher fatality rate than other diseases globally and is one of the most lethal and profoundly disruptive ailments. The increasing incidence of cancer among humans is one of the greatest challenges in the field of healthcare. A significant factor in the initiation and progression of tumorigenesis is the dysregulation of physiological processes governing cell death, which results in the survival of cancerous cells. B-cell lymphoma 2 (Bcl-2) family members play important roles in several cancer-related processes. Drug research and development have identified various promising natural compounds that demonstrate potent anticancer effects by specifically targeting Bcl-2 family proteins and their associated signaling pathways. This comprehensive review highlights the substantial roles of Bcl-2 family proteins in regulating apoptosis, including the intricate signaling pathways governing the activity of these proteins, the impact of reactive oxygen species, and the crucial involvement of proteasome degradation and the stress response. Furthermore, this review discusses advances in the exploration and potential therapeutic applications of natural compounds and small molecules targeting Bcl-2 family proteins and thus provides substantial scientific information and therapeutic strategies for cancer management.
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Affiliation(s)
- Iksen
- Department of Pharmacology and Physiology, Faculty of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Chulalongkorn University, Bangkok, Thailand
- Department of Pharmacy, Sekolah Tinggi Ilmu Kesehatan Senior Medan, Medan, Indonesia
| | - Wasita Witayateeraporn
- Department of Pharmacology and Physiology, Faculty of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Chulalongkorn University, Bangkok, Thailand
| | - Besse Hardianti
- Laboratory of Pharmacology and Clinical Pharmacy, Faculty of Health Sciences, Almarisah Madani University, South Sulawesi, Indonesia
| | - Varisa Pongrakhananon
- Department of Pharmacology and Physiology, Faculty of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Chulalongkorn University, Bangkok, Thailand
- Preclinical Toxicity and Efficacy Assessment of Medicines and Chemicals Research Unit, Chulalongkorn University, Bangkok, Thailand
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28
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Deng H, Han Y, Liu L, Zhang H, Liu D, Wen J, Huang M, Zhao L. Targeting Myeloid Leukemia-1 in Cancer Therapy: Advances and Directions. J Med Chem 2024; 67:5963-5998. [PMID: 38597264 DOI: 10.1021/acs.jmedchem.3c01998] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 04/11/2024]
Abstract
As a tripartite cell death switch, B-cell lymphoma protein 2 (Bcl-2) family members precisely regulate the endogenous apoptosis pathway in response to various cell signal stresses through protein-protein interactions. Myeloid leukemia-1 (Mcl-1), a key anti-apoptotic Bcl-2 family member, is positioned downstream in the endogenous apoptotic pathway and plays a central role in regulating mitochondrial function. Mcl-1 is highly expressed in a variety of hematological malignancies and solid tumors, contributing to tumorigenesis, poor prognosis, and chemoresistance, making it an attractive target for cancer treatment. This Perspective aims to discuss the mechanism by which Mcl-1 regulates apoptosis and non-apoptotic functions in cancer cells and to outline the discovery and optimization process of potent Mcl-1 modulators. In addition, we summarize the structural characteristics of potent inhibitors that bind to Mcl-1 through multiple co-crystal structures and analyze the cardiotoxicity caused by current Mcl-1 inhibitors, providing prospects for rational targeting of Mcl-1.
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Affiliation(s)
- Hongguang Deng
- Key Laboratory of Structure-Based Drugs Design & Discovery of Ministry of Education, Shenyang Pharmaceutical University, Shenyang 110016, China
| | - Yu Han
- Key Laboratory of Structure-Based Drugs Design & Discovery of Ministry of Education, Shenyang Pharmaceutical University, Shenyang 110016, China
| | - Liang Liu
- Key Laboratory of Structure-Based Drugs Design & Discovery of Ministry of Education, Shenyang Pharmaceutical University, Shenyang 110016, China
| | - Hong Zhang
- Key Laboratory of Structure-Based Drugs Design & Discovery of Ministry of Education, Shenyang Pharmaceutical University, Shenyang 110016, China
| | - Dan Liu
- Key Laboratory of Structure-Based Drugs Design & Discovery of Ministry of Education, Shenyang Pharmaceutical University, Shenyang 110016, China
| | - Jiachen Wen
- Key Laboratory of Structure-Based Drugs Design & Discovery of Ministry of Education, Shenyang Pharmaceutical University, Shenyang 110016, China
| | - Min Huang
- Key Laboratory of Structure-Based Drugs Design & Discovery of Ministry of Education, Shenyang Pharmaceutical University, Shenyang 110016, China
| | - Linxiang Zhao
- Key Laboratory of Structure-Based Drugs Design & Discovery of Ministry of Education, Shenyang Pharmaceutical University, Shenyang 110016, China
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29
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Wright T, Turnis ME, Grace CR, Li X, Brakefield LA, Wang YD, Xu H, Kaminska E, Climer LK, Mukiza TO, Chang CL, Moldoveanu T, Opferman JT. Anti-apoptotic MCL-1 promotes long-chain fatty acid oxidation through interaction with ACSL1. Mol Cell 2024; 84:1338-1353.e8. [PMID: 38503284 PMCID: PMC11017322 DOI: 10.1016/j.molcel.2024.02.035] [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: 08/11/2023] [Revised: 12/19/2023] [Accepted: 02/27/2024] [Indexed: 03/21/2024]
Abstract
MCL-1 is essential for promoting the survival of many normal cell lineages and confers survival and chemoresistance in cancer. Beyond apoptosis regulation, MCL-1 has been linked to modulating mitochondrial metabolism, but the mechanism(s) by which it does so are unclear. Here, we show in tissues and cells that MCL-1 supports essential steps in long-chain (but not short-chain) fatty acid β-oxidation (FAO) through its binding to specific long-chain acyl-coenzyme A (CoA) synthetases of the ACSL family. ACSL1 binds to the BH3-binding hydrophobic groove of MCL-1 through a non-conventional BH3-domain. Perturbation of this interaction, via genetic loss of Mcl1, mutagenesis, or use of selective BH3-mimetic MCL-1 inhibitors, represses long-chain FAO in cells and in mouse livers and hearts. Our findings reveal how anti-apoptotic MCL-1 facilitates mitochondrial metabolism and indicate that disruption of this function may be associated with unanticipated cardiac toxicities of MCL-1 inhibitors in clinical trials.
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Affiliation(s)
- Tristen Wright
- Department of Cell and Molecular Biology, St. Jude Children's Research Hospital, Memphis, TN 38105, USA; Graduate School of Biomedical Sciences, St. Jude Children's Research Hospital, Memphis, TN 38105, USA
| | - Meghan E Turnis
- Department of Cell and Molecular Biology, St. Jude Children's Research Hospital, Memphis, TN 38105, USA
| | - Christy R Grace
- Department of Structural Biology, St. Jude Children's Research Hospital, Memphis, TN 38105, USA
| | - Xiao Li
- Department of Cell and Molecular Biology, St. Jude Children's Research Hospital, Memphis, TN 38105, USA
| | - Lauren A Brakefield
- Department of Cell and Molecular Biology, St. Jude Children's Research Hospital, Memphis, TN 38105, USA; Integrated Program in Biomedical Sciences, University of Tennessee Health Science Center, Memphis, TN 38163, USA
| | - Yong-Dong Wang
- Department of Cell and Molecular Biology, St. Jude Children's Research Hospital, Memphis, TN 38105, USA
| | - Haiyan Xu
- Department of Cell and Molecular Biology, St. Jude Children's Research Hospital, Memphis, TN 38105, USA
| | - Ewa Kaminska
- Department of Cell and Molecular Biology, St. Jude Children's Research Hospital, Memphis, TN 38105, USA
| | - Leslie K Climer
- Department of Cell and Molecular Biology, St. Jude Children's Research Hospital, Memphis, TN 38105, USA
| | - Tresor O Mukiza
- Department of Cell and Molecular Biology, St. Jude Children's Research Hospital, Memphis, TN 38105, USA
| | - Chi-Lun Chang
- Department of Cell and Molecular Biology, St. Jude Children's Research Hospital, Memphis, TN 38105, USA
| | - Tudor Moldoveanu
- Department of Structural Biology, St. Jude Children's Research Hospital, Memphis, TN 38105, USA
| | - Joseph T Opferman
- Department of Cell and Molecular Biology, St. Jude Children's Research Hospital, Memphis, TN 38105, USA.
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30
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Zhao K, Braun M, Meyer L, Otte K, Raifer H, Helmprobst F, Möschl V, Pagenstecher A, Urban H, Ronellenfitsch MW, Steinbach JP, Pesek J, Watzer B, Nockher WA, Taudte RV, Neubauer A, Nimsky C, Bartsch JW, Rusch T. A Novel Approach for Glioblastoma Treatment by Combining Apoptosis Inducers (TMZ, MTX, and Cytarabine) with E.V.A. (Eltanexor, Venetoclax, and A1210477) Inhibiting XPO1, Bcl-2, and Mcl-1. Cells 2024; 13:632. [PMID: 38607071 PMCID: PMC11011525 DOI: 10.3390/cells13070632] [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: 02/21/2024] [Revised: 03/29/2024] [Accepted: 04/03/2024] [Indexed: 04/13/2024] Open
Abstract
Adjuvant treatment for Glioblastoma Grade 4 with Temozolomide (TMZ) inevitably fails due to therapeutic resistance, necessitating new approaches. Apoptosis induction in GB cells is inefficient, due to an excess of anti-apoptotic XPO1/Bcl-2-family proteins. We assessed TMZ, Methotrexate (MTX), and Cytarabine (Ara-C) (apoptosis inducers) combined with XPO1/Bcl-2/Mcl-1-inhibitors (apoptosis rescue) in GB cell lines and primary GB stem-like cells (GSCs). Using CellTiter-Glo® and Caspase-3 activity assays, we generated dose-response curves and analyzed the gene and protein regulation of anti-apoptotic proteins via PCR and Western blots. Optimal drug combinations were examined for their impact on the cell cycle and apoptosis induction via FACS analysis, paralleled by the assessment of potential toxicity in healthy mouse brain slices. Ara-C and MTX proved to be 150- to 10,000-fold more potent in inducing apoptosis than TMZ. In response to inhibitors Eltanexor (XPO1; E), Venetoclax (Bcl-2; V), and A1210477 (Mcl-1; A), genes encoding for the corresponding proteins were upregulated in a compensatory manner. TMZ, MTX, and Ara-C combined with E, V, and A evidenced highly lethal effects when combined. As no significant cell death induction in mouse brain slices was observed, we conclude that this drug combination is effective in vitro and expected to have low side effects in vivo.
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Affiliation(s)
- Kai Zhao
- Department of Neurosurgery, Philipps University Marburg, Baldingerstraße 1, 35043 Marburg, Germany
- Department of Hematology, Oncology & Immunology, Philipps University Marburg, Baldingerstraße 1, 35043 Marburg, Germany
| | - Madita Braun
- Department of Neurosurgery, Philipps University Marburg, Baldingerstraße 1, 35043 Marburg, Germany
- Department of Hematology, Oncology & Immunology, Philipps University Marburg, Baldingerstraße 1, 35043 Marburg, Germany
| | - Leonie Meyer
- Department of Neurosurgery, Philipps University Marburg, Baldingerstraße 1, 35043 Marburg, Germany
- Department of Hematology, Oncology & Immunology, Philipps University Marburg, Baldingerstraße 1, 35043 Marburg, Germany
| | - Katharina Otte
- Department of Neurosurgery, Philipps University Marburg, Baldingerstraße 1, 35043 Marburg, Germany
- Department of Hematology, Oncology & Immunology, Philipps University Marburg, Baldingerstraße 1, 35043 Marburg, Germany
| | - Hartmann Raifer
- FACS Core Facility, Philipps University Marburg, Hans-Meerwein-Straße 3, 35043 Marburg, Germany
| | - Frederik Helmprobst
- Department of Neuropathology, Philipps University Marburg, Baldingerstraße 1, 35043 Marburg, Germany
| | - Vincent Möschl
- Department of Neuropathology, Philipps University Marburg, Baldingerstraße 1, 35043 Marburg, Germany
| | - Axel Pagenstecher
- Department of Neuropathology, Philipps University Marburg, Baldingerstraße 1, 35043 Marburg, Germany
- University Cancer Center (UCT) Frankfurt—Marburg, Theodor-Stern-Kai 7, 60590 Frankfurt am Main, Germany
| | - Hans Urban
- University Cancer Center (UCT) Frankfurt—Marburg, Theodor-Stern-Kai 7, 60590 Frankfurt am Main, Germany
- Dr. Senckenberg Institute of Neurooncology, Goethe-University of Frankfurt, Schleusenweg 2-16, 60528 Frankfurt am Main, Germany
| | - Michael W. Ronellenfitsch
- University Cancer Center (UCT) Frankfurt—Marburg, Theodor-Stern-Kai 7, 60590 Frankfurt am Main, Germany
- Dr. Senckenberg Institute of Neurooncology, Goethe-University of Frankfurt, Schleusenweg 2-16, 60528 Frankfurt am Main, Germany
| | - Joachim P. Steinbach
- University Cancer Center (UCT) Frankfurt—Marburg, Theodor-Stern-Kai 7, 60590 Frankfurt am Main, Germany
- Dr. Senckenberg Institute of Neurooncology, Goethe-University of Frankfurt, Schleusenweg 2-16, 60528 Frankfurt am Main, Germany
| | - Jelena Pesek
- Medical Mass Spectrometry Core Facility, Philipps University Marburg, Baldingerstraße 1, 35043 Marburg, Germany
| | - Bernhard Watzer
- Medical Mass Spectrometry Core Facility, Philipps University Marburg, Baldingerstraße 1, 35043 Marburg, Germany
| | - Wolfgang A. Nockher
- Medical Mass Spectrometry Core Facility, Philipps University Marburg, Baldingerstraße 1, 35043 Marburg, Germany
| | - R. Verena Taudte
- Medical Mass Spectrometry Core Facility, Philipps University Marburg, Baldingerstraße 1, 35043 Marburg, Germany
| | - Andreas Neubauer
- Department of Hematology, Oncology & Immunology, Philipps University Marburg, Baldingerstraße 1, 35043 Marburg, Germany
- University Cancer Center (UCT) Frankfurt—Marburg, Theodor-Stern-Kai 7, 60590 Frankfurt am Main, Germany
| | - Christopher Nimsky
- Department of Neurosurgery, Philipps University Marburg, Baldingerstraße 1, 35043 Marburg, Germany
- University Cancer Center (UCT) Frankfurt—Marburg, Theodor-Stern-Kai 7, 60590 Frankfurt am Main, Germany
| | - Jörg W. Bartsch
- Department of Neurosurgery, Philipps University Marburg, Baldingerstraße 1, 35043 Marburg, Germany
- University Cancer Center (UCT) Frankfurt—Marburg, Theodor-Stern-Kai 7, 60590 Frankfurt am Main, Germany
| | - Tillmann Rusch
- Department of Hematology, Oncology & Immunology, Philipps University Marburg, Baldingerstraße 1, 35043 Marburg, Germany
- University Cancer Center (UCT) Frankfurt—Marburg, Theodor-Stern-Kai 7, 60590 Frankfurt am Main, Germany
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31
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Jia J, Ji W, Saliba AN, Csizmar CM, Ye K, Hu L, Peterson KL, Schneider PA, Meng XW, Venkatachalam A, Patnaik MM, Webster JA, Smith BD, Ghiaur G, Wu X, Zhong J, Pandey A, Flatten KS, Deng Q, Wang H, Kaufmann SH, Dai H. AMPK inhibition sensitizes acute leukemia cells to BH3 mimetic-induced cell death. Cell Death Differ 2024; 31:405-416. [PMID: 38538744 PMCID: PMC11043078 DOI: 10.1038/s41418-024-01283-9] [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: 02/09/2023] [Revised: 03/14/2024] [Accepted: 03/18/2024] [Indexed: 04/26/2024] Open
Abstract
BH3 mimetics, including the BCL2/BCLXL/BCLw inhibitor navitoclax and MCL1 inhibitors S64315 and tapotoclax, have undergone clinical testing for a variety of neoplasms. Because of toxicities, including thrombocytopenia after BCLXL inhibition as well as hematopoietic, hepatic and possible cardiac toxicities after MCL1 inhibition, there is substantial interest in finding agents that can safely sensitize neoplastic cells to these BH3 mimetics. Building on the observation that BH3 mimetic monotherapy induces AMP kinase (AMPK) activation in multiple acute leukemia cell lines, we report that the AMPK inhibitors (AMPKis) dorsomorphin and BAY-3827 sensitize these cells to navitoclax or MCL1 inhibitors. Cell fractionation and phosphoproteomic analyses suggest that sensitization by dorsomorphin involves dephosphorylation of the proapoptotic BCL2 family member BAD at Ser75 and Ser99, leading BAD to translocate to mitochondria and inhibit BCLXL. Consistent with these results, BAD knockout or mutation to BAD S75E/S99E abolishes the sensitizing effects of dorsomorphin. Conversely, dorsomorphin synergizes with navitoclax or the MCL1 inhibitor S63845 to induce cell death in primary acute leukemia samples ex vivo and increases the antitumor effects of navitoclax or S63845 in several xenograft models in vivo with little or no increase in toxicity in normal tissues. These results suggest that AMPK inhibition can sensitize acute leukemia to multiple BH3 mimetics, potentially allowing administration of lower doses while inducing similar antineoplastic effects.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jia Jia
- Anhui Province Key Laboratory of Medical Physics and Technology, Institute of Health and Medical Technology, Hefei Institutes of Physical Science, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Hefei, 230031, China
- University of Science and Technology of China, Hefei, 230026, China
- Hefei Cancer Hospital, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Hefei, 230031, China
| | - Wenbo Ji
- Anhui Province Key Laboratory of Medical Physics and Technology, Institute of Health and Medical Technology, Hefei Institutes of Physical Science, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Hefei, 230031, China
- University of Science and Technology of China, Hefei, 230026, China
- Hefei Cancer Hospital, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Hefei, 230031, China
| | - Antoine N Saliba
- Division of Hematology, Department of Medicine, Mayo Clinic, Rochester, MN, 55905, USA
| | - Clifford M Csizmar
- Division of Hematology, Department of Medicine, Mayo Clinic, Rochester, MN, 55905, USA
- Department of Molecular Pharmacology and Experimental Therapeutics, Mayo Clinic, Rochester, MN, 55905, USA
| | - Kaiqin Ye
- Anhui Province Key Laboratory of Medical Physics and Technology, Institute of Health and Medical Technology, Hefei Institutes of Physical Science, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Hefei, 230031, China
- Hefei Cancer Hospital, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Hefei, 230031, China
| | - Lei Hu
- Anhui Province Key Laboratory of Medical Physics and Technology, Institute of Health and Medical Technology, Hefei Institutes of Physical Science, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Hefei, 230031, China
- University of Science and Technology of China, Hefei, 230026, China
- Hefei Cancer Hospital, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Hefei, 230031, China
| | - Kevin L Peterson
- Division of Oncology Research, Department of Oncology, Mayo Clinic, Rochester, MN, 55905, USA
| | - Paula A Schneider
- Division of Oncology Research, Department of Oncology, Mayo Clinic, Rochester, MN, 55905, USA
| | - X Wei Meng
- Department of Molecular Pharmacology and Experimental Therapeutics, Mayo Clinic, Rochester, MN, 55905, USA
- Division of Oncology Research, Department of Oncology, Mayo Clinic, Rochester, MN, 55905, USA
| | - Annapoorna Venkatachalam
- Department of Molecular Pharmacology and Experimental Therapeutics, Mayo Clinic, Rochester, MN, 55905, USA
- Division of Oncology Research, Department of Oncology, Mayo Clinic, Rochester, MN, 55905, USA
| | - Mrinal M Patnaik
- Division of Hematology, Department of Medicine, Mayo Clinic, Rochester, MN, 55905, USA
| | - Jonathan A Webster
- Adult Leukemia Program, Sidney Kimmel Cancer Center at Johns Hopkins, Baltimore, MD, 21287, USA
| | - B Douglas Smith
- Adult Leukemia Program, Sidney Kimmel Cancer Center at Johns Hopkins, Baltimore, MD, 21287, USA
| | - Gabriel Ghiaur
- Adult Leukemia Program, Sidney Kimmel Cancer Center at Johns Hopkins, Baltimore, MD, 21287, USA
| | - Xinyan Wu
- Department of Molecular Pharmacology and Experimental Therapeutics, Mayo Clinic, Rochester, MN, 55905, USA
- Department of Laboratory Medicine and Pathology, Mayo Clinic, Rochester, MN, 55905, USA
| | - Jun Zhong
- Department of Laboratory Medicine and Pathology, Mayo Clinic, Rochester, MN, 55905, USA
| | - Akhilesh Pandey
- Department of Molecular Pharmacology and Experimental Therapeutics, Mayo Clinic, Rochester, MN, 55905, USA
- Department of Laboratory Medicine and Pathology, Mayo Clinic, Rochester, MN, 55905, USA
- Manipal Academy of Higher Education, Manipal, 576104, Kamataka, India
| | - Karen S Flatten
- Division of Oncology Research, Department of Oncology, Mayo Clinic, Rochester, MN, 55905, USA
| | - Qingmei Deng
- Anhui Province Key Laboratory of Medical Physics and Technology, Institute of Health and Medical Technology, Hefei Institutes of Physical Science, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Hefei, 230031, China
- Hefei Cancer Hospital, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Hefei, 230031, China
| | - Hongzhi Wang
- Anhui Province Key Laboratory of Medical Physics and Technology, Institute of Health and Medical Technology, Hefei Institutes of Physical Science, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Hefei, 230031, China
- Hefei Cancer Hospital, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Hefei, 230031, China
| | - Scott H Kaufmann
- Division of Hematology, Department of Medicine, Mayo Clinic, Rochester, MN, 55905, USA.
- Department of Molecular Pharmacology and Experimental Therapeutics, Mayo Clinic, Rochester, MN, 55905, USA.
- Division of Oncology Research, Department of Oncology, Mayo Clinic, Rochester, MN, 55905, USA.
| | - Haiming Dai
- Anhui Province Key Laboratory of Medical Physics and Technology, Institute of Health and Medical Technology, Hefei Institutes of Physical Science, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Hefei, 230031, China.
- Hefei Cancer Hospital, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Hefei, 230031, China.
- Division of Oncology Research, Department of Oncology, Mayo Clinic, Rochester, MN, 55905, USA.
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Seipel K, Mandhair H, Bacher U, Pabst T. FLT3 and IRAK4 Inhibitor Emavusertib in Combination with BH3-Mimetics in the Treatment of Acute Myeloid Leukemia. Curr Issues Mol Biol 2024; 46:2946-2960. [PMID: 38666914 PMCID: PMC11049208 DOI: 10.3390/cimb46040184] [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: 02/27/2024] [Revised: 03/22/2024] [Accepted: 03/22/2024] [Indexed: 04/28/2024] Open
Abstract
Targeting the FLT3 receptor and the IL-1R associated kinase 4 as well as the anti-apoptotic proteins MCL1 and BCL2 may be a promising novel approach in the treatment of acute myeloid leukemia (AML). The FLT3 and IRAK4 inhibitor emavusertib (CA4948), the MCL1 inhibitor S63845, the BCL2 inhibitor venetoclax, and the HSP90 inhibitor PU-H71 were assessed as single agents and in combination for their ability to induce apoptosis and cell death in leukemic cells in vitro. AML cells represented all major morphologic and molecular subtypes, including FLT3-ITD and NPM1 mutant AML cell lines and a variety of patient-derived AML cells. Emavusertib in combination with MCL1 inhibitor S63845 or BCL2 inhibitor venetoclax induced cell cycle arrest and apoptosis in MOLM-13 cells. In primary AML cells, the response to emavusertib was associated with the presence of the FLT3 gene mutation with an allelic ratio >0.5 and the presence of NPM1 gene mutations. S63845 was effective in all tested AML cell lines and primary AML samples. Blast cell percentage was positively associated with the response to CA4948, S63845, and venetoclax, with elevated susceptibility of primary AML with blast cell fraction >80%. Biomarkers of the response to venetoclax included the blast cell percentage and bone marrow infiltration rate, as well as the expression levels of CD11b, CD64, and CD117. Elevated susceptibility to CA4948 combination treatments with S63845 or PU-H71 was associated with FLT3-mutated AML and CD34 < 30%. The combination of CA4948 and BH3-mimetics may be effective in the treatment in FLT3-mutated AML with differential target specificity for MCL1 and BCL2 inhibitors. Moreover, the combination of CA4948 and PU-H71 may be a candidate combination treatment in FLT3-mutated AML.
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Affiliation(s)
- Katja Seipel
- Department for Biomedical Research, University of Bern, 3008 Bern, Switzerland;
| | - Harpreet Mandhair
- Department for Biomedical Research, University of Bern, 3008 Bern, Switzerland;
| | - Ulrike Bacher
- Department of Hematology, University Hospital Bern, 3010 Bern, Switzerland;
| | - Thomas Pabst
- Department of Medical Oncology, University Hospital Bern, 3010 Bern, Switzerland
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Niu P, Xu H, Fan M. Discovery and optimization of (2-naphthylthio)acetic acid derivative as selective Bfl-1 inhibitor. Bioorg Med Chem Lett 2024; 101:129658. [PMID: 38373466 DOI: 10.1016/j.bmcl.2024.129658] [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: 01/09/2024] [Revised: 02/10/2024] [Accepted: 02/14/2024] [Indexed: 02/21/2024]
Abstract
Bcl-2 anti-apoptotic protein family suppresses cell death by deploying a surface groove to capture the critical BH3 α-helix of pro-apoptotic members. Bfl-1 is a relatively understudied member of this family, though it has been implicated in the pathogenesis and chemoresistance of a variety of human cancers. Reported small molecular Bfl-1 inhibitors encountered the issue of either lack in potency or poor selectivity against its most homologous member Mcl-1. In order to tackle this issue, compound library was screened and a hit compound UMI-77 was identified. We modified its chemical structure to remove the characteristic of PAINS (pan-assay interference compounds), demonstrated the real binding affinity and achieved selectivity against Mcl-1 under the guidance of computational modeling. After optimization 15 was obtained as leading compound to block Bfl-1/BIM interaction in vitro with more than 10-fold selectivity over Mcl-1. We believe 15 is of great value for the exploration of Bfl-1 biological function and its potential as therapeutic target.
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Affiliation(s)
- Pengpeng Niu
- Academy of Medical Engineering and Translational Medicine (AMT), Tianjin University, Tianjin 300072, China; Hangzhou Institute of Medicine, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Hangzhou, Zhejiang 310018, China
| | - Huiqi Xu
- Hangzhou Institute of Medicine, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Hangzhou, Zhejiang 310018, China; College of Pharmaceutical Science, Zhejiang University of Technology, Hangzhou, Zhejiang 310014, China
| | - Mengyang Fan
- Hangzhou Institute of Medicine, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Hangzhou, Zhejiang 310018, China; Zhejiang Cancer Hospital, Hangzhou, Zhejiang 310022, China.
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34
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Gong Q, Wang H, Zhou M, Zhou L, Wang R, Li Y. B-cell lymphoma-2 family proteins in the crosshairs: Small molecule inhibitors and activators for cancer therapy. Med Res Rev 2024; 44:707-737. [PMID: 37983840 DOI: 10.1002/med.21999] [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: 09/05/2023] [Revised: 10/31/2023] [Accepted: 11/02/2023] [Indexed: 11/22/2023]
Abstract
The B-cell lymphoma-2 (BCL-2) family of proteins plays a crucial role in the regulation of apoptosis, offering a dual mechanism for its control. Numerous studies have established a strong association between gene disorders of these proteins and the proliferation of diverse cancer cell types. Consequently, the identification and development of drugs targeting BCL-2 family proteins have emerged as a prominent area in antitumor therapy. Over the last two decades, several small-molecules have been designed to modulate the protein-protein interactions between anti- and proapoptotic BCL-2 proteins, effectively suppressing tumor growth and metastasis in vivo. The primary focus of research has been on developing BCL-2 homology 3 (BH3) mimetics to target antiapoptotic BCL-2 proteins, thereby competitively releasing proapoptotic BCL-2 proteins and restoring the blocked intrinsic apoptotic program. Additionally, for proapoptotic BCL-2 proteins, exogenous small molecules have been explored to activate cell apoptosis by directly interacting with executioner proteins such as BCL-2-associated X protein (BAX) or BCL-2 homologous antagonist/killer protein (BAK). In this comprehensive review, we summarize the inhibitors and activators (sensitizers) of BCL-2 family proteins developed over the past decades, highlighting their discovery, optimization, preclinical and clinical status, and providing an overall landscape of drug development targeting these proteins for therapeutic purposes.
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Affiliation(s)
- Qineng Gong
- Department of Medicinal Chemistry, School of Pharmacy, Fudan University, Shanghai, People's Republic of China
| | - Haojie Wang
- Department of Medicinal Chemistry, School of Pharmacy, Fudan University, Shanghai, People's Republic of China
| | - Mi Zhou
- Department of Medicinal Chemistry, School of Pharmacy, Fudan University, Shanghai, People's Republic of China
| | - Lu Zhou
- Department of Medicinal Chemistry, School of Pharmacy, Fudan University, Shanghai, People's Republic of China
| | - Renxiao Wang
- Department of Medicinal Chemistry, School of Pharmacy, Fudan University, Shanghai, People's Republic of China
| | - Yan Li
- Department of Medicinal Chemistry, School of Pharmacy, Fudan University, Shanghai, People's Republic of China
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Hekking KFW, Maroto S, van Kekem K, Haasjes FS, Slootweg JC, Oude Alink PGB, Dirks R, Sardana M, Bolster MG, Kuijpers B, Smith D, Doodeman R, Scheepstra M, Zech B, Mulvihill M, Renzetti LM, Babiss L, Centrella PA, Clark MA, Cuozzo JW, Guié MA, Sigel E, Habeshian S, Hupp CD, Liu J, Thomson HA, Zhang Y, Keefe AD, Müller G, Gremmen S. Development of Potent Mcl-1 Inhibitors: Structural Investigations on Macrocycles Originating from a DNA-Encoded Chemical Library Screen. J Med Chem 2024; 67:3039-3065. [PMID: 38306405 DOI: 10.1021/acs.jmedchem.3c02206] [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: 02/04/2024]
Abstract
Evasion of apoptosis is critical for the development and growth of tumors. The pro-survival protein myeloid cell leukemia 1 (Mcl-1) is an antiapoptotic member of the Bcl-2 family, associated with tumor aggressiveness, poor survival, and drug resistance. Development of Mcl-1 inhibitors implies blocking of protein-protein interactions, generally requiring a lengthy optimization process of large, complex molecules. Herein, we describe the use of DNA-encoded chemical library synthesis and screening to directly generate complex, yet conformationally privileged macrocyclic hits that serve as Mcl-1 inhibitors. By applying a conceptual combination of conformational analysis and structure-based design in combination with a robust synthetic platform allowing rapid analoging, we optimized in vitro potency of a lead series into the low nanomolar regime. Additionally, we demonstrate fine-tuning of the physicochemical properties of the macrocyclic compounds, resulting in the identification of lead candidates 57/59 with a balanced profile, which are suitable for future development toward therapeutic use.
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Affiliation(s)
| | | | | | | | | | | | - Ron Dirks
- Symeres, 6546BB Nijmegen, The Netherlands
| | | | | | | | | | | | | | - Birgit Zech
- X-Rx, Inc., New York, New York 10016, United States
| | | | | | - Lee Babiss
- X-Rx, Inc., New York, New York 10016, United States
| | | | | | - John W Cuozzo
- X-Chem, Inc., Waltham, Massachusetts 02453, United States
| | | | - Eric Sigel
- X-Chem, Inc., Waltham, Massachusetts 02453, United States
| | | | | | - Julie Liu
- X-Chem, Inc., Waltham, Massachusetts 02453, United States
| | | | - Ying Zhang
- X-Chem, Inc., Waltham, Massachusetts 02453, United States
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Hoogenboezem EN, Patel SS, Lo JH, Cavnar AB, Babb LM, Francini N, Gbur EF, Patil P, Colazo JM, Michell DL, Sanchez VM, McCune JT, Ma J, DeJulius CR, Lee LH, Rosch JC, Allen RM, Stokes LD, Hill JL, Vickers KC, Cook RS, Duvall CL. Structural optimization of siRNA conjugates for albumin binding achieves effective MCL1-directed cancer therapy. Nat Commun 2024; 15:1581. [PMID: 38383524 PMCID: PMC10881965 DOI: 10.1038/s41467-024-45609-0] [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: 03/14/2023] [Accepted: 01/29/2024] [Indexed: 02/23/2024] Open
Abstract
The high potential of siRNAs to silence oncogenic drivers remains largely untapped due to the challenges of tumor cell delivery. Here, divalent lipid-conjugated siRNAs are optimized for in situ binding to albumin to improve pharmacokinetics and tumor delivery. Systematic variation of the siRNA conjugate structure reveals that the location of the linker branching site dictates tendency toward albumin association versus self-assembly, while the lipid hydrophobicity and reversibility of albumin binding also contribute to siRNA intracellular delivery. The lead structure increases tumor siRNA accumulation 12-fold in orthotopic triple negative breast cancer (TNBC) tumors over the parent siRNA. This structure achieves approximately 80% silencing of the anti-apoptotic oncogene MCL1 and yields better survival outcomes in three TNBC models than an MCL-1 small molecule inhibitor. These studies provide new structure-function insights on siRNA-lipid conjugate structures that are intravenously injected, associate in situ with serum albumin, and improve pharmacokinetics and tumor treatment efficacy.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ella N Hoogenboezem
- Department of Biomedical Engineering, Vanderbilt University, Nashville, TN, USA
| | - Shrusti S Patel
- Department of Biomedical Engineering, Vanderbilt University, Nashville, TN, USA
| | - Justin H Lo
- Department of Biomedical Engineering, Vanderbilt University, Nashville, TN, USA
- Department of Medicine, Vanderbilt University Medical Center, Nashville, TN, USA
| | - Ashley B Cavnar
- Department of Medicine, Vanderbilt University Medical Center, Nashville, TN, USA
| | - Lauren M Babb
- Department of Biomedical Engineering, Vanderbilt University, Nashville, TN, USA
| | - Nora Francini
- Department of Biomedical Engineering, Vanderbilt University, Nashville, TN, USA
| | - Eva F Gbur
- Department of Biomedical Engineering, Vanderbilt University, Nashville, TN, USA
| | - Prarthana Patil
- Department of Biomedical Engineering, Vanderbilt University, Nashville, TN, USA
| | - Juan M Colazo
- Department of Biomedical Engineering, Vanderbilt University, Nashville, TN, USA
- Medical Scientist Training Program, Vanderbilt University School of Medicine, Nashville, TN, USA
| | - Danielle L Michell
- Department of Medicine, Vanderbilt University Medical Center, Nashville, TN, USA
| | - Violeta M Sanchez
- Department of Medicine, Vanderbilt University Medical Center, Nashville, TN, USA
| | - Joshua T McCune
- Department of Biomedical Engineering, Vanderbilt University, Nashville, TN, USA
| | - Jinqi Ma
- Department of Biomedical Engineering, Vanderbilt University, Nashville, TN, USA
| | - Carlisle R DeJulius
- Department of Biomedical Engineering, Vanderbilt University, Nashville, TN, USA
| | - Linus H Lee
- Department of Biomedical Engineering, Vanderbilt University, Nashville, TN, USA
| | - Jonah C Rosch
- Department of Chemical and Biomolecular Engineering, Vanderbilt University, Nashville, TN, USA
| | - Ryan M Allen
- Department of Medicine, Vanderbilt University Medical Center, Nashville, TN, USA
| | - Larry D Stokes
- Department of Biomedical Engineering, Vanderbilt University, Nashville, TN, USA
| | - Jordan L Hill
- Department of Biomedical Engineering, Vanderbilt University, Nashville, TN, USA
| | - Kasey C Vickers
- Department of Medicine, Vanderbilt University Medical Center, Nashville, TN, USA
- Department of Molecular Physiology and Biophysics, Vanderbilt University, Nashville, TN, USA
| | - Rebecca S Cook
- Department of Biomedical Engineering, Vanderbilt University, Nashville, TN, USA
| | - Craig L Duvall
- Department of Biomedical Engineering, Vanderbilt University, Nashville, TN, USA.
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37
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Li R, Wu Y, Li Y, Shuai W, Wang A, Zhu Y, Hu X, Xia Y, Ouyang L, Wang G. Targeted regulated cell death with small molecule compounds in colorectal cancer: Current perspectives of targeted therapy and molecular mechanisms. Eur J Med Chem 2024; 265:116040. [PMID: 38142509 DOI: 10.1016/j.ejmech.2023.116040] [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: 10/06/2023] [Revised: 12/04/2023] [Accepted: 12/08/2023] [Indexed: 12/26/2023]
Abstract
Colorectal cancer (CRC), a tumor of the digestive system, is characterized by high malignancy and poor prognosis. Currently, targeted therapy of CRC is far away from satisfying. The molecular mechanisms of regulated cell death (RCD) have been clearly elucidated, which can be intervened by drug or genetic modification. Numerous studies have provided substantial evidence linking these mechanisms to the progression and treatment of CRC. The RCD includes apoptosis, autophagy-dependent cell death (ADCD), ferroptosis, necroptosis, and pyroptosis, and immunogenic cell death, etc, which provide potential targets for anti-cancer treatment. For the last several years, small-molecule compounds targeting RCD have been a well concerned therapeutic strategy for CRC. This present review aims to describe the function of small-molecule compounds in the targeted therapy of CRC via targeting apoptosis, ADCD, ferroptosis, necroptosis, immunogenic dell death and pyroptosis, and their mechanisms. In addition, we prospect the application of newly discovered cuproptosis and disulfidptosis in CRC. Our review may provide references for the targeted therapy of CRC using small-molecule compounds targeting RCD, including the potential targets and candidate compounds.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ru Li
- Innovation Center of Nursing Research, Nursing Key Laboratory of Sichuan Province, State Key Laboratory of Biotherapy and Cancer Center, Management Department of Scientific Research Laboratory, West China Hospital, Sichuan University /West China School of Nursing, Sichuan University, Chengdu, 610041, China
| | - Yongya Wu
- Innovation Center of Nursing Research, Nursing Key Laboratory of Sichuan Province, State Key Laboratory of Biotherapy and Cancer Center, Management Department of Scientific Research Laboratory, West China Hospital, Sichuan University /West China School of Nursing, Sichuan University, Chengdu, 610041, China
| | - Yan Li
- Innovation Center of Nursing Research, Nursing Key Laboratory of Sichuan Province, State Key Laboratory of Biotherapy and Cancer Center, Management Department of Scientific Research Laboratory, West China Hospital, Sichuan University /West China School of Nursing, Sichuan University, Chengdu, 610041, China
| | - Wen Shuai
- Innovation Center of Nursing Research, Nursing Key Laboratory of Sichuan Province, State Key Laboratory of Biotherapy and Cancer Center, Management Department of Scientific Research Laboratory, West China Hospital, Sichuan University /West China School of Nursing, Sichuan University, Chengdu, 610041, China
| | - Aoxue Wang
- Innovation Center of Nursing Research, Nursing Key Laboratory of Sichuan Province, State Key Laboratory of Biotherapy and Cancer Center, Management Department of Scientific Research Laboratory, West China Hospital, Sichuan University /West China School of Nursing, Sichuan University, Chengdu, 610041, China
| | - Yumeng Zhu
- Innovation Center of Nursing Research, Nursing Key Laboratory of Sichuan Province, State Key Laboratory of Biotherapy and Cancer Center, Management Department of Scientific Research Laboratory, West China Hospital, Sichuan University /West China School of Nursing, Sichuan University, Chengdu, 610041, China
| | - Xiuying Hu
- Innovation Center of Nursing Research, Nursing Key Laboratory of Sichuan Province, State Key Laboratory of Biotherapy and Cancer Center, Management Department of Scientific Research Laboratory, West China Hospital, Sichuan University /West China School of Nursing, Sichuan University, Chengdu, 610041, China
| | - Yong Xia
- Innovation Center of Nursing Research, Nursing Key Laboratory of Sichuan Province, State Key Laboratory of Biotherapy and Cancer Center, Management Department of Scientific Research Laboratory, West China Hospital, Sichuan University /West China School of Nursing, Sichuan University, Chengdu, 610041, China; Department of Rehabilitation Medicine, Rehabilitation Medicine Center, West China Hospital, Sichuan University, Chengdu, 610041, China; Key Laboratory of Rehabilitation Medicine in Sichuan Province/Rehabilitation Medicine Research Institute, Chengdu, 610041, China.
| | - Liang Ouyang
- Innovation Center of Nursing Research, Nursing Key Laboratory of Sichuan Province, State Key Laboratory of Biotherapy and Cancer Center, Management Department of Scientific Research Laboratory, West China Hospital, Sichuan University /West China School of Nursing, Sichuan University, Chengdu, 610041, China.
| | - Guan Wang
- Innovation Center of Nursing Research, Nursing Key Laboratory of Sichuan Province, State Key Laboratory of Biotherapy and Cancer Center, Management Department of Scientific Research Laboratory, West China Hospital, Sichuan University /West China School of Nursing, Sichuan University, Chengdu, 610041, China.
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38
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Fultang N, Schwab AM, McAneny-Droz S, Grego A, Rodgers S, Torres BV, Heiser D, Scherle P, Bhagwat N. PBRM1 loss is associated with increased sensitivity to MCL1 and CDK9 inhibition in clear cell renal cancer. Front Oncol 2024; 14:1343004. [PMID: 38371625 PMCID: PMC10869502 DOI: 10.3389/fonc.2024.1343004] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/22/2023] [Accepted: 01/19/2024] [Indexed: 02/20/2024] Open
Abstract
MCL1 is a member of the BCL2 family of apoptosis regulators, which play a critical role in promoting cancer survival and drug resistance. We previously described PRT1419, a potent, MCL1 inhibitor with anti-tumor efficacy in various solid and hematologic malignancies. To identify novel biomarkers that predict sensitivity to MCL1 inhibition, we conducted a gene essentiality analysis using gene dependency data generated from CRISPR/Cas9 cell viability screens. We observed that clear cell renal cancer (ccRCC) cell lines with damaging PBRM1 mutations displayed a strong dependency on MCL1. PBRM1 (BAF180), is a chromatin-targeting subunit of mammalian pBAF complexes. PBRM1 is frequently altered in various cancers particularly ccRCC with ~40% of tumors harboring damaging PBRM1 alterations. We observed potent inhibition of tumor growth and induction of apoptosis by PRT1419 in various preclinical models of PBRM1-mutant ccRCC but not PBRM1-WT. Depletion of PBRM1 in PBRM1-WT ccRCC cell lines induced sensitivity to PRT1419. Mechanistically, PBRM1 depletion coincided with increased expression of pro-apoptotic factors, priming cells for caspase-mediated apoptosis following MCL1 inhibition. Increased MCL1 activity has been described as a resistance mechanism to Sunitinib and Everolimus, two approved agents for ccRCC. PRT1419 synergized with both agents to potently inhibit tumor growth in PBRM1-loss ccRCC. PRT2527, a potent CDK9 inhibitor which depletes MCL1, was similarly efficacious in monotherapy and in combination with Sunitinib in PBRM1-loss cells. Taken together, these findings suggest PBRM1 loss is associated with MCL1i sensitivity in ccRCC and provide rationale for the evaluation of PRT1419 and PRT2527 for the treatment for PBRM1-deficient ccRCC.
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39
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McAloney CA, Makkawi R, Budhathoki Y, Cannon MV, Franz EM, Gross AC, Cam M, Vetter TA, Duhen R, Davies AE, Roberts RD. Host-derived growth factors drive ERK phosphorylation and MCL1 expression to promote osteosarcoma cell survival during metastatic lung colonization. Cell Oncol (Dordr) 2024; 47:259-282. [PMID: 37676378 PMCID: PMC10899530 DOI: 10.1007/s13402-023-00867-w] [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] [Accepted: 08/23/2023] [Indexed: 09/08/2023] Open
Abstract
PURPOSE For patients with osteosarcoma, disease-related mortality most often results from lung metastasis-a phenomenon shared with many solid tumors. While established metastatic lesions behave aggressively, very few of the tumor cells that reach the lung will survive. By identifying mechanisms that facilitate survival of disseminated tumor cells, we can develop therapeutic strategies that prevent and treat metastasis. METHODS We analyzed single cell RNA-sequencing (scRNAseq) data from murine metastasis-bearing lungs to interrogate changes in both host and tumor cells during colonization. We used these data to elucidate pathways that become activated in cells that survive dissemination and identify candidate host-derived signals that drive activation. We validated these findings through live cell reporter systems, immunocytochemistry, and fluorescent immunohistochemistry. We then validated the functional relevance of key candidates using pharmacologic inhibition in models of metastatic osteosarcoma. RESULTS Expression patterns suggest that the MAPK pathway is significantly elevated in early and established metastases. MAPK activity correlates with expression of anti-apoptotic genes, especially MCL1. Niche cells produce growth factors that increase ERK phosphorylation and MCL1 expression in tumor cells. Both early and established metastases are vulnerable to MCL1 inhibition, but not MEK inhibition in vivo. Combining MCL1 inhibition with chemotherapy both prevented colonization and eliminated established metastases in murine models of osteosarcoma. CONCLUSION Niche-derived growth factors drive MAPK activity and MCL1 expression in osteosarcoma, promoting metastatic colonization. Although later metastases produce less MCL1, they remain dependent on it. MCL1 is a promising target for clinical trials in both human and canine patients.
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Affiliation(s)
- Camille A McAloney
- Department of Veterinary Biosciences, College of Veterinary Medicine, The Ohio State University, Columbus, OH, USA
- Center for Childhood Cancers and Blood Diseases, Abigail Wexner Research Institute at Nationwide Children's Hospital, Columbus, OH, USA
| | - Rawan Makkawi
- Knight Cancer Institute's, Cancer Early Detection Advanced Research Center, Oregon Health & Science University, 3181 SW Sam Jackson Park Road, Portland, OR, 97239, USA
| | - Yogesh Budhathoki
- Center for Childhood Cancers and Blood Diseases, Abigail Wexner Research Institute at Nationwide Children's Hospital, Columbus, OH, USA
- Molecular, Cellular, and Developmental Biology Program, The Ohio State University, Columbus, OH, USA
| | - Matthew V Cannon
- Center for Childhood Cancers and Blood Diseases, Abigail Wexner Research Institute at Nationwide Children's Hospital, Columbus, OH, USA
| | - Emily M Franz
- Center for Childhood Cancers and Blood Diseases, Abigail Wexner Research Institute at Nationwide Children's Hospital, Columbus, OH, USA
- Molecular, Cellular, and Developmental Biology Program, The Ohio State University, Columbus, OH, USA
| | - Amy C Gross
- Center for Childhood Cancers and Blood Diseases, Abigail Wexner Research Institute at Nationwide Children's Hospital, Columbus, OH, USA
| | - Maren Cam
- Center for Childhood Cancers and Blood Diseases, Abigail Wexner Research Institute at Nationwide Children's Hospital, Columbus, OH, USA
| | - Tatyana A Vetter
- Center for Gene Therapy, Abigail Wexner Research Institute, Nationwide Children's Hospital, Columbus, OH, USA
- Department of Pediatrics, The Ohio State University, Columbus, OH, USA
| | - Rebekka Duhen
- Knight Cancer Institute's, Cancer Early Detection Advanced Research Center, Oregon Health & Science University, 3181 SW Sam Jackson Park Road, Portland, OR, 97239, USA
| | - Alexander E Davies
- Knight Cancer Institute's, Cancer Early Detection Advanced Research Center, Oregon Health & Science University, 3181 SW Sam Jackson Park Road, Portland, OR, 97239, USA.
| | - Ryan D Roberts
- Center for Childhood Cancers and Blood Diseases, Abigail Wexner Research Institute at Nationwide Children's Hospital, Columbus, OH, USA.
- Division of Pediatric Hematology, Oncology, and BMT, Nationwide Children's Hospital, 700 Children's Drive, Columbus, OH, 43205, USA.
- The Ohio State University James Comprehensive Cancer Center, Columbus, OH, USA.
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40
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Abbas H, Derkaoui DK, Jeammet L, Adicéam E, Tiollier J, Sicard H, Braun T, Poyet JL. Apoptosis Inhibitor 5: A Multifaceted Regulator of Cell Fate. Biomolecules 2024; 14:136. [PMID: 38275765 PMCID: PMC10813780 DOI: 10.3390/biom14010136] [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: 12/19/2023] [Revised: 01/17/2024] [Accepted: 01/19/2024] [Indexed: 01/27/2024] Open
Abstract
Apoptosis, or programmed cell death, is a fundamental process that maintains tissue homeostasis, eliminates damaged or infected cells, and plays a crucial role in various biological phenomena. The deregulation of apoptosis is involved in many human diseases, including cancer. One of the emerging players in the intricate regulatory network of apoptosis is apoptosis inhibitor 5 (API5), also called AAC-11 (anti-apoptosis clone 11) or FIF (fibroblast growth factor-2 interacting factor). While it may not have yet the same level of notoriety as some other cancer-associated proteins, API5 has garnered increasing attention in the cancer field in recent years, as elevated API5 levels are often associated with aggressive tumor behavior, resistance to therapy, and poor patient prognosis. This review aims to shed light on the multifaceted functions and regulatory mechanisms of API5 in cell fate decisions as well as its interest as therapeutic target in cancer.
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Affiliation(s)
- Hafsia Abbas
- Université Oran 1, Ahmed Ben Bella, Oran 31000, Algeria; (H.A.); (D.K.D.)
| | | | - Louise Jeammet
- Jalon Therapeutics, 75010 Paris, France; (L.J.); (J.T.); (H.S.)
| | - Emilie Adicéam
- Jalon Therapeutics, 75010 Paris, France; (L.J.); (J.T.); (H.S.)
| | - Jérôme Tiollier
- Jalon Therapeutics, 75010 Paris, France; (L.J.); (J.T.); (H.S.)
| | - Hélène Sicard
- Jalon Therapeutics, 75010 Paris, France; (L.J.); (J.T.); (H.S.)
| | - Thorsten Braun
- Laboratoire de Transfert des Leucémies, EA3518, Institut de Recherche Saint Louis, Hôpital Saint Louis, Université de Paris, 75010 Paris, France;
- AP-HP, Service d’Hématologie Clinique, Hôpital Avicenne, Université Paris XIII, 93000 Bobigny, France
- OPALE Carnot Institute, The Organization for Partnerships in Leukemia, Hôpital Saint-Louis, 75010 Paris, France
| | - Jean-Luc Poyet
- INSERM UMRS976, Institut de Recherche Saint Louis, Hôpital Saint Louis, 75010 Paris, France
- Université Paris Cité, 75015 Paris, France
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Wyżewski Z, Stępkowska J, Kobylińska AM, Mielcarska A, Mielcarska MB. Mcl-1 Protein and Viral Infections: A Narrative Review. Int J Mol Sci 2024; 25:1138. [PMID: 38256213 PMCID: PMC10816053 DOI: 10.3390/ijms25021138] [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: 12/14/2023] [Revised: 01/10/2024] [Accepted: 01/15/2024] [Indexed: 01/24/2024] Open
Abstract
MCL-1 is the prosurvival member of the Bcl-2 family. It prevents the induction of mitochondria-dependent apoptosis. The molecular mechanisms dictating the host cell viability gain importance in the context of viral infections. The premature apoptosis of infected cells could interrupt the pathogen replication cycle. On the other hand, cell death following the effective assembly of progeny particles may facilitate virus dissemination. Thus, various viruses can interfere with the apoptosis regulation network to their advantage. Research has shown that viral infections affect the intracellular amount of MCL-1 to modify the apoptotic potential of infected cells, fitting it to the "schedule" of the replication cycle. A growing body of evidence suggests that the virus-dependent deregulation of the MCL-1 level may contribute to several virus-driven diseases. In this work, we have described the role of MCL-1 in infections caused by various viruses. We have also presented a list of promising antiviral agents targeting the MCL-1 protein. The discussed results indicate targeted interventions addressing anti-apoptotic MCL1 as a new therapeutic strategy for cancers as well as other diseases. The investigation of the cellular and molecular mechanisms involved in viral infections engaging MCL1 may contribute to a better understanding of the regulation of cell death and survival balance.
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Affiliation(s)
- Zbigniew Wyżewski
- Institute of Biological Sciences, Cardinal Stefan Wyszyński University in Warsaw, Dewajtis 5, 01-815 Warsaw, Poland
| | - Justyna Stępkowska
- Institute of Family Sciences, Cardinal Stefan Wyszyński University in Warsaw, Dewajtis 5, 01-815 Warsaw, Poland;
| | - Aleksandra Maria Kobylińska
- Division of Immunology, Department of Preclinical Sciences, Institute of Veterinary Medicine, Warsaw University of Life Sciences—SGGW, Ciszewskiego 8, 02-786 Warsaw, Poland; (A.M.K.); (M.B.M.)
| | - Adriana Mielcarska
- Department of Gastroenterology, Hepatology, Nutritional Disorders and Pediatrics, The Children’s Memorial Health Institute, Av. Dzieci Polskich 20, 04-730 Warsaw, Poland;
| | - Matylda Barbara Mielcarska
- Division of Immunology, Department of Preclinical Sciences, Institute of Veterinary Medicine, Warsaw University of Life Sciences—SGGW, Ciszewskiego 8, 02-786 Warsaw, Poland; (A.M.K.); (M.B.M.)
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Deng Y, Li C, Huang L, Xiong P, Li Y, Liu Y, Li S, Chen W, Yin Q, Li Y, Yang Q, Peng H, Wu S, Wang X, Tong Q, Ouyang H, Hu D, Liu X, Li L, You J, Sun Z, Lu X, Xiao Z, Deng Y, Zhao H. Single-cell landscape of the cellular microenvironment in three different colonic polyp subtypes in children. Clin Transl Med 2024; 14:e1535. [PMID: 38264936 PMCID: PMC10807352 DOI: 10.1002/ctm2.1535] [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: 08/29/2023] [Revised: 12/12/2023] [Accepted: 12/26/2023] [Indexed: 01/25/2024] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND The understanding of the heterogeneous cellular microenvironment of colonic polyps in paediatric patients with solitary juvenile polyps (SJPs), polyposis syndrome (PJS) and Peutz-Jeghers syndrome (PJS) remains limited. METHODS We conducted single-cell RNA sequencing and multiplexed immunohistochemistry (mIHC) analyses on both normal colonic tissue and different types of colonic polyps obtained from paediatric patients. RESULTS We identified both shared and disease-specific cell subsets and expression patterns that played important roles in shaping the unique cellular microenvironments observed in each polyp subtype. As such, increased myeloid, endothelial and epithelial cells were the most prominent features of SJP, JPS and PJS polyps, respectively. Noticeably, memory B cells were increased, and a cluster of epithelial-mesenchymal transition (EMT)-like colonocytes existed across all polyp subtypes. Abundant neutrophil infiltration was observed in SJP polyps, while CX3CR1hi CD8+ T cells and regulatory T cells (Tregs) were predominant in SJP and JPS polyps, while GZMAhi natural killer T cells were predominant in PJS polyps. Compared with normal colonic tissues, myeloid cells exhibited specific induction of genes involved in chemotaxis and interferon-related pathways in SJP polyps, whereas fibroblasts in JPS polyps had upregulation of myofiber-associated genes and epithelial cells in PJS polyps exhibited induction of a series of nutrient absorption-related genes. In addition, the TNF-α response was uniformly upregulated in most cell subsets across all polyp subtypes, while endothelial cells and fibroblasts separately showed upregulated cell adhesion and EMT signalling in SJP and JPS polyps. Cell-cell interaction network analysis showed markedly enhanced intercellular communication, such as TNF, VEGF, CXCL and collagen signalling networks, among most cell subsets in polyps, especially SJP and JPS polyps. CONCLUSION These findings strengthen our understanding of the heterogeneous cellular microenvironment of polyp subtypes and identify potential therapeutic approaches to reduce the recurrence of polyps in children.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yafei Deng
- Pediatrics Research Institute of Hunan Province and Hunan Provincial Key Laboratory of Children's Emergency MedicineHunan Children's HospitalChangshaChina
- The School of PediatricsHengyang Medical SchoolUniversity of South ChinaChangshaChina
| | - Canlin Li
- Department of Digestive NutritionHunan Children's HospitalChangshaChina
| | - Lanlan Huang
- Pediatrics Research Institute of Hunan Province and Hunan Provincial Key Laboratory of Children's Emergency MedicineHunan Children's HospitalChangshaChina
- The School of PediatricsHengyang Medical SchoolUniversity of South ChinaChangshaChina
| | - Peiwen Xiong
- Pediatrics Research Institute of Hunan Province and Hunan Provincial Key Laboratory of Children's Emergency MedicineHunan Children's HospitalChangshaChina
| | - Yana Li
- Pediatrics Research Institute of Hunan Province and Hunan Provincial Key Laboratory of Children's Emergency MedicineHunan Children's HospitalChangshaChina
| | - Yongjie Liu
- Pediatrics Research Institute of Hunan Province and Hunan Provincial Key Laboratory of Children's Emergency MedicineHunan Children's HospitalChangshaChina
| | - Songyang Li
- Pediatrics Research Institute of Hunan Province and Hunan Provincial Key Laboratory of Children's Emergency MedicineHunan Children's HospitalChangshaChina
| | - Weijian Chen
- Department of PathologyHunan Children's HospitalChangshaChina
| | - Qiang Yin
- Department of Pediatric SurgeryHunan Children's HospitalChangshaChina
| | - Yong Li
- Department of Pediatric SurgeryHunan Children's HospitalChangshaChina
| | - Qinglan Yang
- Pediatrics Research Institute of Hunan Province and Hunan Provincial Key Laboratory of Children's Emergency MedicineHunan Children's HospitalChangshaChina
| | - Hongyan Peng
- Pediatrics Research Institute of Hunan Province and Hunan Provincial Key Laboratory of Children's Emergency MedicineHunan Children's HospitalChangshaChina
| | - Shuting Wu
- Pediatrics Research Institute of Hunan Province and Hunan Provincial Key Laboratory of Children's Emergency MedicineHunan Children's HospitalChangshaChina
| | - Xiangyu Wang
- Pediatrics Research Institute of Hunan Province and Hunan Provincial Key Laboratory of Children's Emergency MedicineHunan Children's HospitalChangshaChina
| | - Qin Tong
- The School of PediatricsHengyang Medical SchoolUniversity of South ChinaChangshaChina
- Department of Digestive NutritionHunan Children's HospitalChangshaChina
| | - Hongjuan Ouyang
- Department of Digestive NutritionHunan Children's HospitalChangshaChina
| | - Die Hu
- Department of Clinical HematologyCollege of Pharmacy and Laboratory Medicine ScienceArmy Medical UniversityChongqingChina
| | - Xinjia Liu
- Pediatrics Research Institute of Hunan Province and Hunan Provincial Key Laboratory of Children's Emergency MedicineHunan Children's HospitalChangshaChina
- The School of PediatricsHengyang Medical SchoolUniversity of South ChinaChangshaChina
| | - Liping Li
- Pediatrics Research Institute of Hunan Province and Hunan Provincial Key Laboratory of Children's Emergency MedicineHunan Children's HospitalChangshaChina
| | - Jieyu You
- Department of Digestive NutritionHunan Children's HospitalChangshaChina
| | - Zhiyi Sun
- Department of BiostatisticsSchool of Public HealthUniversity of MichiganAnn ArborMichiganUSA
| | - Xiulan Lu
- Pediatrics Research Institute of Hunan Province and Hunan Provincial Key Laboratory of Children's Emergency MedicineHunan Children's HospitalChangshaChina
| | - Zhenghui Xiao
- Pediatrics Research Institute of Hunan Province and Hunan Provincial Key Laboratory of Children's Emergency MedicineHunan Children's HospitalChangshaChina
| | - Youcai Deng
- Department of Clinical HematologyCollege of Pharmacy and Laboratory Medicine ScienceArmy Medical UniversityChongqingChina
| | - Hongmei Zhao
- Department of Digestive NutritionHunan Children's HospitalChangshaChina
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Calderon A, Han C, Karma S, Wang E. Non-genetic mechanisms of drug resistance in acute leukemias. Trends Cancer 2024; 10:38-51. [PMID: 37839973 DOI: 10.1016/j.trecan.2023.09.003] [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: 06/20/2023] [Revised: 09/13/2023] [Accepted: 09/14/2023] [Indexed: 10/17/2023]
Abstract
Acute leukemia is characterized by clonal heterogeneity that contributes to poor drug responses in patients. Despite treatment advances, the occurrence of relapse remains a major barrier to achieving cures as current therapeutic approaches are inadequate to effectively prevent or overcome resistance. Given that only a few genetic mutations are associated with relapse in acute leukemia patients, there is a growing focus on 'non-genetic' mechanisms that affect the hallmarks of cancer to allow leukemic cells to survive post therapy. In this review, we provide an overview of the therapeutic landscape in acute leukemias. Importantly, we discuss non-genetic mechanisms exploited by leukemic cells to promote their survival after treatment. Last, we present current strategies to prevent or overcome drug resistance in this disease.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Cuijuan Han
- The Jackson Laboratory for Genomic Medicine, Farmington, CT, USA
| | - Sadik Karma
- The Jackson Laboratory for Genomic Medicine, Farmington, CT, USA; Graduate Program in Genetics and Development, UConn Health, Farmington, CT, USA
| | - Eric Wang
- The Jackson Laboratory for Genomic Medicine, Farmington, CT, USA; Department of Genetics and Genome Sciences, UConn Health, Farmington, CT, USA; Institute for Systems Genomics, University of Connecticut Health Center, Farmington, CT, USA.
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Zhang X, Yang L, Liu X, Nie Z, Liu M, Wang T, Lu Y, Pan Y, Zhan Y, Wang Z, Luo J. Regulatory role of RBM39 in acute myeloid leukemia: Mediation through the PI3K/AKT pathway. BIOCHIMICA ET BIOPHYSICA ACTA. MOLECULAR CELL RESEARCH 2024; 1871:119607. [PMID: 37852323 DOI: 10.1016/j.bbamcr.2023.119607] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/20/2023] [Revised: 10/09/2023] [Accepted: 10/10/2023] [Indexed: 10/20/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Acute myeloid leukemia (AML) presents ongoing therapeutic challenges due to its intricate molecular pathogenesis. This study aimed to elucidate the role of RNA binding motif protein 39 (RBM39) in AML cell proliferation, apoptosis, and chemosensitivity, and its potential modulation of the PI3K/AKT pathway. METHODS In vitro and in vivo experiments were conducted using AML cell lines (K562 and U937) and bone marrow mononuclear cells (BM-MNCs) from AML patients and healthy donors. RBM39 mRNA and protein levels were measured using qRT-PCR and Western blotting. Cells were transfected with sh-RBM39 or sh-control, and then treated with daunorubicin (DNR) or homoharringtonine (HHT) at varied concentrations. Cell proliferation, chemosensitivity, and apoptosis were assessed through CCK-8 assay and Annexin V-APC/PI staining. RNA sequencing identified differentially expressed genes (DEGs) post RBM39 knockdown. An in vivo xenograft AML model using E7070, a selective RBM39 inhibitor, was employed to evaluate RBM39 modulation effects. RESULTS Elevated RBM39 levels were found in AML patients and cell lines compared to controls. RBM39 knockdown promoted apoptosis, curtailed cell proliferation, and enhanced chemosensitivity to DNR and HHT in vitro. Drug-resistant or relapsed AML patients displayed higher RBM39 levels. RNA sequencing after RBM39 knockdown revealed downregulated PI3K/AKT signaling. The xenograft model validated in vitro results, as E7070 treatment suppressed AML xenograft growth via RBM39-mediated PI3K/AKT pathway suppression. CONCLUSION RBM39 plays a pivotal role in AML progression through the PI3K/AKT signaling pathway. Targeting RBM39, potentially with E7070, could inhibit proliferation and induce apoptosis in AML cells, offering a promising avenue for future AML research and treatment.
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Affiliation(s)
- Xiaoyan Zhang
- Department of Hematology, Key Laboratory of Hematology, The Second Hospital of Hebei Medical University, Shijiazhuang, China.
| | - Lin Yang
- Department of Hematology, Key Laboratory of Hematology, The Second Hospital of Hebei Medical University, Shijiazhuang, China
| | - Xiaojun Liu
- Department of Hematology, Key Laboratory of Hematology, The Second Hospital of Hebei Medical University, Shijiazhuang, China
| | - Ziyuan Nie
- Department of Hematology, Key Laboratory of Hematology, The Second Hospital of Hebei Medical University, Shijiazhuang, China
| | - Menghan Liu
- Department of Hematology, Key Laboratory of Hematology, The Second Hospital of Hebei Medical University, Shijiazhuang, China
| | - Tianyang Wang
- Department of Hepatobiliary Surgery, The Second Hospital of Hebei Medical University, Shijiazhuang, China
| | - Yaqiong Lu
- Department of Hematology Oncology, Hebei Children's Hospital, Shijiazhuang, China
| | - Yuxia Pan
- Department of Hematology, Key Laboratory of Hematology, The Second Hospital of Hebei Medical University, Shijiazhuang, China
| | - Ying Zhan
- Department of Hematology, Key Laboratory of Hematology, The Second Hospital of Hebei Medical University, Shijiazhuang, China
| | - Zhenzhen Wang
- Department of Hematology, Key Laboratory of Hematology, The Second Hospital of Hebei Medical University, Shijiazhuang, China
| | - Jianmin Luo
- Department of Hematology, Key Laboratory of Hematology, The Second Hospital of Hebei Medical University, Shijiazhuang, China.
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Beltrán-Visiedo M, Jiménez-Alduán N, Díez R, Cuenca M, Benedi A, Serrano-Del Valle A, Azaceta G, Palomera L, Peperzak V, Anel A, Naval J, Marzo I. Dinaciclib synergizes with BH3 mimetics targeting BCL-2 and BCL-X L in multiple myeloma cell lines partially dependent on MCL-1 and in plasma cells from patients. Mol Oncol 2023; 17:2507-2525. [PMID: 37704591 DOI: 10.1002/1878-0261.13522] [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: 05/08/2023] [Revised: 08/01/2023] [Accepted: 09/12/2023] [Indexed: 09/15/2023] Open
Abstract
A better understanding of multiple myeloma (MM) biology has led to the development of novel therapies. However, MM is still an incurable disease and new pharmacological strategies are needed. Dinaciclib, a multiple cyclin-dependent kinase (CDK) inhibitor, which inhibits CDK1, 2, 5 and 9, displays significant antimyeloma activity as found in phase II clinical trials. In this study, we have explored the mechanism of dinaciclib-induced death and evaluated its enhancement by different BH3 mimetics in MM cell lines as well as in plasma cells from MM patients. Our results indicate a synergistic effect of dinaciclib-based combinations with B-cell lymphoma 2 or B-cell lymphoma extra-large inhibitors, especially in MM cell lines with partial dependence on myeloid cell leukemia sequence 1 (MCL-1). Simultaneous treatment with dinaciclib and BH3 mimetics ABT-199 or A-1155463 additionally showed a synergistic effect in plasma cells from MM patients, ex vivo. Altered MM cytogenetics did not affect dinaciclib response ex vivo, alone or in combined treatment, suggesting that these combinations could be a suitable therapeutic option for patients bearing cytogenetic alterations and poor prognosis. This work also opens the possibility to explore cyclin-dependent kinase 9 inhibition as a targeted therapy in MM patients overexpressing or with high dependence on MCL-1.
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Affiliation(s)
| | | | - Rosana Díez
- Apoptosis, Immunity & Cancer Group, IIS Aragón, University of Zaragoza, Spain
- Hematology Service, Hospital Universitario Miguel Servet, Zaragoza, Spain
| | - Marta Cuenca
- Center for Translational Immunology, University Medical Center Utrecht, Utrecht University, The Netherlands
| | - Andrea Benedi
- Apoptosis, Immunity & Cancer Group, IIS Aragón, University of Zaragoza, Spain
| | | | - Gemma Azaceta
- Hematology Service, Hospital Clínico Universitario Lozano Blesa, Zaragoza, Spain
- HCU-Lozano Blesa-Hematology Research Group, IIS Aragón, Instituto Aragonés de Ciencias de la Salud, Zaragoza, Spain
| | - Luis Palomera
- Hematology Service, Hospital Clínico Universitario Lozano Blesa, Zaragoza, Spain
- HCU-Lozano Blesa-Hematology Research Group, IIS Aragón, Instituto Aragonés de Ciencias de la Salud, Zaragoza, Spain
| | - Victor Peperzak
- Center for Translational Immunology, University Medical Center Utrecht, Utrecht University, The Netherlands
| | - Alberto Anel
- Apoptosis, Immunity & Cancer Group, IIS Aragón, University of Zaragoza, Spain
| | - Javier Naval
- Apoptosis, Immunity & Cancer Group, IIS Aragón, University of Zaragoza, Spain
| | - Isabel Marzo
- Apoptosis, Immunity & Cancer Group, IIS Aragón, University of Zaragoza, Spain
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Jia J, Li M, Li Y, Xiao J, Dai H. The mtDNA-STING pathway plays an important role in both navitoclax- and S63845-induced autophagy and enhances cell death. Cell Biol Toxicol 2023; 39:2821-2839. [PMID: 37002446 DOI: 10.1007/s10565-023-09804-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: 05/20/2022] [Accepted: 03/24/2023] [Indexed: 04/03/2023]
Abstract
Targeting BCL2 family proteins to induce cancer cell death has been successful in the treatment of cancer. BH3 mimetics such as ABT-737 not only induce cell death, but also activate autophagy. The molecular mechanism by which the BH3 mimetics induce autophagy is still controversial. In this study, we show that the BCL2/BCLXL/BCLw inhibitor navitoclax and the MCL1 inhibitor S63845 induce both apoptosis and autophagy in mouse embryonic fibroblasts (MEFs) and leukemia cell lines, while autophagy induced by navticlax and S63845 in leukemia cell lines requires the inhibition of caspase activities. Further experiments demonstrate that the autophagy induced by navitoclax or S63845 does not depend on Beclin 1, but downstream of Bax/Bak. Moreover, both navitoclax and S63845 treatment induce mtDNA release in MEFs, which activates STING and thereby induces autophagy, while STING KO inhibits both navitoclax- and S63845-induced autophagy. Furthermore, STING KO diminishes navitoclax- or S63845-induced apoptosis, suggesting that STING activation enhances rather than inhibits apoptosis. Thus, our findings provide new insights into the regulations of navitoclax- or S63845-induced autophagy and cell death.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jia Jia
- Anhui Province Key Laboratory of Medical Physics and Technology, Institute of Health & Medical Technology, Hefei Institutes of Physical Science, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Hefei, 230031, Anhui, China
- University of Science and Technology of China, Hefei, 230026, Anhui, China
- Department of Pathology and Laboratory Medicine, Hefei Cancer Hospital, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Hefei, 230031, China
| | - Mengqing Li
- Anhui Province Key Laboratory of Medical Physics and Technology, Institute of Health & Medical Technology, Hefei Institutes of Physical Science, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Hefei, 230031, Anhui, China
- Department of Pathology and Laboratory Medicine, Hefei Cancer Hospital, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Hefei, 230031, China
| | - Yunjian Li
- Anhui Province Key Laboratory of Medical Physics and Technology, Institute of Health & Medical Technology, Hefei Institutes of Physical Science, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Hefei, 230031, Anhui, China
- Department of Pathology and Laboratory Medicine, Hefei Cancer Hospital, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Hefei, 230031, China
| | - Jun Xiao
- Department of Urology, the First Affiliated Hospital of USTC, Division of Life Sciences and Medicine, University of Science and Technology of China, Hefei, 230001, China.
| | - Haiming Dai
- Anhui Province Key Laboratory of Medical Physics and Technology, Institute of Health & Medical Technology, Hefei Institutes of Physical Science, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Hefei, 230031, Anhui, China.
- Department of Pathology and Laboratory Medicine, Hefei Cancer Hospital, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Hefei, 230031, China.
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Arnett E, Pahari S, Leopold Wager CM, Hernandez E, Bonifacio JR, Lumbreras M, Renshaw C, Montoya MJ, Opferman JT, Schlesinger LS. Combination of MCL-1 and BCL-2 inhibitors is a promising approach for a host-directed therapy for tuberculosis. Biomed Pharmacother 2023; 168:115738. [PMID: 37864894 PMCID: PMC10841846 DOI: 10.1016/j.biopha.2023.115738] [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: 06/02/2023] [Revised: 10/04/2023] [Accepted: 10/14/2023] [Indexed: 10/23/2023] Open
Abstract
Tuberculosis (TB) accounts for 1.6 million deaths annually and over 25% of deaths due to antimicrobial resistance. Mycobacterium tuberculosis (M.tb) drives MCL-1 expression (family member of anti-apoptotic BCL-2 proteins) to limit apoptosis and grow intracellularly in human macrophages. The feasibility of re-purposing specific MCL-1 and BCL-2 inhibitors to limit M.tb growth, using inhibitors that are in clinical trials and FDA-approved for cancer treatment has not be tested previously. We show that specifically inhibiting MCL-1 and BCL-2 induces apoptosis of M.tb-infected macrophages, and markedly reduces M.tb growth in human and murine macrophages, and in a pre-clinical model of human granulomas. MCL-1 and BCL-2 inhibitors limit growth of drug resistant and susceptible M.tb in macrophages and act in additive fashion with the antibiotics isoniazid and rifampicin. This exciting work uncovers targeting the intrinsic apoptosis pathway as a promising approach for TB host-directed therapy. Since safety and activity studies are underway in cancer clinics for MCL-1 and BCL-2 inhibitors, we expect that re-purposing them for TB treatment should translate more readily and rapidly to the clinic. Thus, the work supports further development of this host-directed therapy approach to augment current TB treatment.
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Affiliation(s)
- Eusondia Arnett
- Host Pathogen Interactions Program, Texas Biomedical Research Institute, San Antonio, TX 78227, USA.
| | - Susanta Pahari
- Host Pathogen Interactions Program, Texas Biomedical Research Institute, San Antonio, TX 78227, USA
| | - Chrissy M Leopold Wager
- Host Pathogen Interactions Program, Texas Biomedical Research Institute, San Antonio, TX 78227, USA
| | - Elizabeth Hernandez
- Host Pathogen Interactions Program, Texas Biomedical Research Institute, San Antonio, TX 78227, USA
| | - Jordan R Bonifacio
- Host Pathogen Interactions Program, Texas Biomedical Research Institute, San Antonio, TX 78227, USA
| | - Miranda Lumbreras
- Host Pathogen Interactions Program, Texas Biomedical Research Institute, San Antonio, TX 78227, USA
| | - Charles Renshaw
- Host Pathogen Interactions Program, Texas Biomedical Research Institute, San Antonio, TX 78227, USA
| | - Maria J Montoya
- Host Pathogen Interactions Program, Texas Biomedical Research Institute, San Antonio, TX 78227, USA
| | | | - Larry S Schlesinger
- Host Pathogen Interactions Program, Texas Biomedical Research Institute, San Antonio, TX 78227, USA.
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48
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Leśniak M, Lipniarska J, Majka P, Lejman M, Zawitkowska J. Recent Updates in Venetoclax Combination Therapies in Pediatric Hematological Malignancies. Int J Mol Sci 2023; 24:16708. [PMID: 38069030 PMCID: PMC10706781 DOI: 10.3390/ijms242316708] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/27/2023] [Revised: 11/16/2023] [Accepted: 11/22/2023] [Indexed: 12/18/2023] Open
Abstract
Venetoclax is a strongly effective B-cell lymphoma-2 inhibitor (BCL-2) with an ability to selectively restore the apoptotic potential of cancerous cells. It has been proven that in combination with immunotherapy, targeted therapies, and lower-intensity therapies such as hypomethylating agents (HMAs) or low-dose cytarabine (LDAC), the drug can improve overall outcomes for adult patients with acute myeloid leukemia (AML), chronic lymphocytic leukemia (CLL), and multiple myeloma (MM), amongst other hematological malignancies, but its benefit in pediatric hematology remains unclear. With a number of preclinical and clinical trials emerging, the newest findings suggest that in many cases of younger patients, venetoclax combination treatment can be well-tolerated, with a safety profile similar to that in adults, despite often leading to severe infections. Studies aim to determine the activity of BCL-2 inhibitor in the treatment of both primary and refractory acute leukemias in combination with standard and high-dose chemotherapy. Although more research is required to identify the optimal venetoclax-based regimen for the pediatric population and its long-term effects on patients' outcomes, it can become a potential therapeutic agent for pediatric oncology.
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Affiliation(s)
- Maria Leśniak
- Student Scientific Society of Department of Pediatric Hematology, Oncology and Transplantology, Medical University of Lublin, 20-093 Lublin, Poland; (M.L.); (J.L.); (P.M.)
| | - Justyna Lipniarska
- Student Scientific Society of Department of Pediatric Hematology, Oncology and Transplantology, Medical University of Lublin, 20-093 Lublin, Poland; (M.L.); (J.L.); (P.M.)
| | - Patrycja Majka
- Student Scientific Society of Department of Pediatric Hematology, Oncology and Transplantology, Medical University of Lublin, 20-093 Lublin, Poland; (M.L.); (J.L.); (P.M.)
| | - Monika Lejman
- Independent Laboratory of Genetic Diagnostics, Medical University of Lublin, 20-093 Lublin, Poland;
| | - Joanna Zawitkowska
- Department of Pediatric Hematology, Oncology and Transplantology, Medical University of Lublin, 20-093 Lublin, Poland
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Kielbassa K, Van der Weele L, Voskuyl AE, de Vries N, Eldering E, Kuijpers TW. Differential expression pattern of Bcl-2 family members in B and T cells in systemic lupus erythematosus and rheumatoid arthritis. Arthritis Res Ther 2023; 25:225. [PMID: 37993903 PMCID: PMC10664305 DOI: 10.1186/s13075-023-03203-7] [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: 03/13/2023] [Accepted: 10/31/2023] [Indexed: 11/24/2023] Open
Abstract
OBJECTIVE This study aimed to evaluate the expression level of anti-apoptotic Bcl-2 family proteins in B and T cells in patients with systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE) and rheumatoid arthritis (RA) in relation to disease activity and the effect of various Bcl-2 family inhibitors (BH3 mimetics) as potential treatment. METHODS We included 14 SLE patients, 12 RA patients, and 13 healthy controls to study anti-apoptotic Bcl-2, Bcl-XL, and Mcl-1 expression and cell survival in different B and T cell subsets using stimulation assays and intracellular flow cytometry. Effect of various BH3 mimetics was assessed by cell viability analyses. RESULTS In SLE, significant differences in Bcl-2 family members were confined to the B cell compartment with decreased induction of Bcl-XL (p ≤ 0.05) and Mcl-1 (p ≤ 0.001) upon CpG stimulation. In RA, we did not observe any differences in expression levels of Bcl-2 family proteins. Expression patterns did not correlate with disease activity apart from decreased induction of Mcl-1 in B cells in active SLE. After in vitro stimulation with CpG, plasmablasts were more viable after treatment with three different BH3 mimetics compared to naïve or memory B cells in control and patient cells. After activation, Mcl-1 inhibition was most effective in reducing plasmablast and T cell viability, however, less in patients than controls. CONCLUSION Our study provides evidence for the increased differential expression pattern of Bcl-2 family members in B and T cell subsets of patients with SLE compared to controls. Tested BH3 mimetics showed higher efficacy in controls compared to both autoimmune diseases, though nonsignificant due to low patient numbers.
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Affiliation(s)
- K Kielbassa
- Department of Experimental Immunology, Amsterdam Infection & Immunity Institute (AIII), Amsterdam UMC, University of Amsterdam, Amsterdam, The Netherlands
- Department of Hematology, Cancer Center Amsterdam, Amsterdam UMC, University of Amsterdam, Amsterdam, The Netherlands
- Department of Lymphoma and Myeloma Center Amsterdam, Amsterdam, The Netherlands
| | - L Van der Weele
- Department of Experimental Immunology, Amsterdam Infection & Immunity Institute (AIII), Amsterdam UMC, University of Amsterdam, Amsterdam, The Netherlands.
- Department of Rheumatology and Clinical Immunology, Amsterdam Rheumatology and Immunology Centre (ARC), Amsterdam UMC, University of Amsterdam, Amsterdam, The Netherlands.
| | - A E Voskuyl
- Department of Rheumatology and Clinical Immunology, Amsterdam Rheumatology and Immunology Centre (ARC), Amsterdam UMC, Vrije Universiteit, Amsterdam, The Netherlands
| | - N de Vries
- Department of Experimental Immunology, Amsterdam Infection & Immunity Institute (AIII), Amsterdam UMC, University of Amsterdam, Amsterdam, The Netherlands
- Department of Rheumatology and Clinical Immunology, Amsterdam Rheumatology and Immunology Centre (ARC), Amsterdam UMC, University of Amsterdam, Amsterdam, The Netherlands
| | - E Eldering
- Department of Experimental Immunology, Amsterdam Infection & Immunity Institute (AIII), Amsterdam UMC, University of Amsterdam, Amsterdam, The Netherlands
- Department of Lymphoma and Myeloma Center Amsterdam, Amsterdam, The Netherlands
| | - T W Kuijpers
- Department of Pediatric Immunology, Rheumatology and Infectious Diseases, Emma Children's Hospital, Amsterdam UMC, University of Amsterdam, Amsterdam, The Netherlands
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Arang N, Lubrano S, Ceribelli M, Rigiracciolo DC, Saddawi-Konefka R, Faraji F, Ramirez SI, Kim D, Tosto FA, Stevenson E, Zhou Y, Wang Z, Bogomolovas J, Molinolo AA, Swaney DL, Krogan NJ, Yang J, Coma S, Pachter JA, Aplin AE, Alessi DR, Thomas CJ, Gutkind JS. High-throughput chemogenetic drug screening reveals PKC-RhoA/PKN as a targetable signaling vulnerability in GNAQ-driven uveal melanoma. Cell Rep Med 2023; 4:101244. [PMID: 37858338 PMCID: PMC10694608 DOI: 10.1016/j.xcrm.2023.101244] [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: 02/21/2023] [Revised: 09/08/2023] [Accepted: 09/22/2023] [Indexed: 10/21/2023]
Abstract
Uveal melanoma (UM) is the most prevalent cancer of the eye in adults, driven by activating mutation of GNAQ/GNA11; however, there are limited therapies against UM and metastatic UM (mUM). Here, we perform a high-throughput chemogenetic drug screen in GNAQ-mutant UM contrasted with BRAF-mutant cutaneous melanoma, defining the druggable landscape of these distinct melanoma subtypes. Across all compounds, darovasertib demonstrates the highest preferential activity against UM. Our investigation reveals that darovasertib potently inhibits PKC as well as PKN/PRK, an AGC kinase family that is part of the "dark kinome." We find that downstream of the Gαq-RhoA signaling axis, PKN converges with ROCK to control FAK, a mediator of non-canonical Gαq-driven signaling. Strikingly, darovasertib synergizes with FAK inhibitors to halt UM growth and promote cytotoxic cell death in vitro and in preclinical metastatic mouse models, thus exposing a signaling vulnerability that can be exploited as a multimodal precision therapy against mUM.
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Affiliation(s)
- Nadia Arang
- Moores Cancer Center, University of California San Diego, La Jolla, CA 92093, USA; Biomedical Sciences Graduate Program, University of California San Diego, La Jolla, CA 92093, USA; Department of Pharmacology, School of Medicine, University of California San Diego, La Jolla, CA 92093, USA
| | - Simone Lubrano
- Moores Cancer Center, University of California San Diego, La Jolla, CA 92093, USA; Department of Pharmacy, University of Pisa, Pisa, Italy
| | - Michele Ceribelli
- Division of Preclinical Innovation, National Center for Advancing Translational Sciences, National Institutes of Health, Rockville, MD 20850, USA
| | | | | | - Farhoud Faraji
- Moores Cancer Center, University of California San Diego, La Jolla, CA 92093, USA
| | - Sydney I Ramirez
- Moores Cancer Center, University of California San Diego, La Jolla, CA 92093, USA
| | - Daehwan Kim
- Moores Cancer Center, University of California San Diego, La Jolla, CA 92093, USA; Department of Pharmacology, School of Medicine, University of California San Diego, La Jolla, CA 92093, USA
| | - Frances A Tosto
- Division of Preclinical Innovation, National Center for Advancing Translational Sciences, National Institutes of Health, Rockville, MD 20850, USA
| | - Erica Stevenson
- Quantitative Biosciences Institute (QBI), University of California San Francisco, San Francisco, CA 94158, USA; J. David Gladstone Institutes, San Francisco, CA 94158, USA; Department of Cellular and Molecular Pharmacology, University of California San Francisco, San Francisco, CA 94158, USA
| | - Yuan Zhou
- Quantitative Biosciences Institute (QBI), University of California San Francisco, San Francisco, CA 94158, USA; J. David Gladstone Institutes, San Francisco, CA 94158, USA; Department of Cellular and Molecular Pharmacology, University of California San Francisco, San Francisco, CA 94158, USA
| | - Zhiyong Wang
- Moores Cancer Center, University of California San Diego, La Jolla, CA 92093, USA
| | - Julius Bogomolovas
- School of Medicine, University of California San Diego, La Jolla, CA 92093, USA
| | - Alfredo A Molinolo
- Moores Cancer Center, University of California San Diego, La Jolla, CA 92093, USA
| | - Danielle L Swaney
- Quantitative Biosciences Institute (QBI), University of California San Francisco, San Francisco, CA 94158, USA; J. David Gladstone Institutes, San Francisco, CA 94158, USA; Department of Cellular and Molecular Pharmacology, University of California San Francisco, San Francisco, CA 94158, USA
| | - Nevan J Krogan
- Quantitative Biosciences Institute (QBI), University of California San Francisco, San Francisco, CA 94158, USA; J. David Gladstone Institutes, San Francisco, CA 94158, USA; Department of Cellular and Molecular Pharmacology, University of California San Francisco, San Francisco, CA 94158, USA
| | - Jing Yang
- Moores Cancer Center, University of California San Diego, La Jolla, CA 92093, USA; Department of Pharmacology, School of Medicine, University of California San Diego, La Jolla, CA 92093, USA; Department of Pediatrics, University of California San Diego, La Jolla, CA 92093, USA
| | | | | | - Andrew E Aplin
- Department of Cancer Biology, Thomas Jefferson University, Philadelphia, PA 19107, USA
| | - Dario R Alessi
- Medical Research Council (MRC) Protein Phosphorylation and Ubiquitylation Unit, School of Life Sciences, University of Dundee, Dundee DD1 5EH, UK
| | - Craig J Thomas
- Division of Preclinical Innovation, National Center for Advancing Translational Sciences, National Institutes of Health, Rockville, MD 20850, USA
| | - J Silvio Gutkind
- Moores Cancer Center, University of California San Diego, La Jolla, CA 92093, USA; Department of Pharmacology, School of Medicine, University of California San Diego, La Jolla, CA 92093, USA.
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