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Zimmermann T, Feng J, de Campos LJ, Knight LA, Schlötzer J, Ramirez YA, Schwickert K, Zehe M, Adler TB, Schirmeister T, Kisker C, Sotriffer C, Conda-Sheridan M, Decker M. Structure-Based Design and Synthesis of Covalent Inhibitors for Deubiquitinase and Acetyltransferase ChlaDUB1 of Chlamydia trachomatis. J Med Chem 2024; 67:10710-10742. [PMID: 38897928 DOI: 10.1021/acs.jmedchem.4c00230] [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: 06/21/2024]
Abstract
Upon infection by an intracellular pathogen, host cells activate apoptotic pathways to limit pathogen replication. Consequently, efficient proliferation of the obligate intracellular pathogen Chlamydia trachomatis, a major cause of trachoma and sexually transmitted diseases, depends on the suppression of host cell apoptosis. C. trachomatis secretes deubiquitinase ChlaDUB1 into the host cell, leading among other interactions to the stabilization of antiapoptotic proteins and, thus, suppression of host cell apoptosis. Targeting the bacterial effector protein may, therefore, lead to new therapeutic possibilities. To explore the active site of ChlaDUB1, an iterative cycle of computational docking, synthesis, and enzymatic screening was applied with the aim of lead structure development. Hereby, covalent inhibitors were developed, which show enhanced inhibition with a 22-fold increase in IC50 values compared to previous work. Comprehensive insights into the binding prerequisites to ChlaDUB1 are provided, establishing the foundation for an additional specific antichlamydial therapy by small molecules.
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Affiliation(s)
- Thomas Zimmermann
- Pharmazeutische und Medizinische Chemie, Institut für Pharmazie und Lebensmittelchemie, Julius-Maximilians-Universität Würzburg (JMU), Am Hubland, 97074 Würzburg, Germany
| | - Jiachen Feng
- Department of Pharmaceutical Sciences, College of Pharmacy, University of Nebraska Medical Center, Omaha, Nebraska 68198, United States
| | - Luana Janaína de Campos
- Department of Pharmaceutical Sciences, College of Pharmacy, University of Nebraska Medical Center, Omaha, Nebraska 68198, United States
| | - Lindsey A Knight
- Department of Pathology, Microbiology and Immunology, University of Nebraska Medical Center, Omaha, Nebraska 68198, United States
| | - Jan Schlötzer
- Rudolf Virchow Center for Integrative and Translational Bioimaging, Institute for Structural Biology, Julius-Maximilians-Universität Würzburg (JMU), 97080 Wurzburg, Germany
| | - Yesid A Ramirez
- Pharmazeutische und Medizinische Chemie, Institut für Pharmazie und Lebensmittelchemie, Julius-Maximilians-Universität Würzburg (JMU), Am Hubland, 97074 Würzburg, Germany
| | - Kevin Schwickert
- Institute of Pharmaceutical and Biomedical Sciences (IPBS), Johannes Gutenberg University Mainz, Staudingerweg 5, 55128 Mainz, Germany
| | - Markus Zehe
- Pharmazeutische und Medizinische Chemie, Institut für Pharmazie und Lebensmittelchemie, Julius-Maximilians-Universität Würzburg (JMU), Am Hubland, 97074 Würzburg, Germany
| | - Thomas B Adler
- Pharmazeutische und Medizinische Chemie, Institut für Pharmazie und Lebensmittelchemie, Julius-Maximilians-Universität Würzburg (JMU), Am Hubland, 97074 Würzburg, Germany
| | - Tanja Schirmeister
- Institute of Pharmaceutical and Biomedical Sciences (IPBS), Johannes Gutenberg University Mainz, Staudingerweg 5, 55128 Mainz, Germany
| | - Caroline Kisker
- Rudolf Virchow Center for Integrative and Translational Bioimaging, Institute for Structural Biology, Julius-Maximilians-Universität Würzburg (JMU), 97080 Wurzburg, Germany
| | - Christoph Sotriffer
- Pharmazeutische und Medizinische Chemie, Institut für Pharmazie und Lebensmittelchemie, Julius-Maximilians-Universität Würzburg (JMU), Am Hubland, 97074 Würzburg, Germany
| | - Martin Conda-Sheridan
- Department of Pharmaceutical Sciences, College of Pharmacy, University of Nebraska Medical Center, Omaha, Nebraska 68198, United States
| | - Michael Decker
- Pharmazeutische und Medizinische Chemie, Institut für Pharmazie und Lebensmittelchemie, Julius-Maximilians-Universität Würzburg (JMU), Am Hubland, 97074 Würzburg, Germany
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Patzke JV, Sauer F, Nair RK, Endres E, Proschak E, Hernandez-Olmos V, Sotriffer C, Kisker C. Structural basis for the bi-specificity of USP25 and USP28 inhibitors. EMBO Rep 2024; 25:2950-2973. [PMID: 38816515 DOI: 10.1038/s44319-024-00167-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] [Received: 11/13/2023] [Revised: 05/10/2024] [Accepted: 05/13/2024] [Indexed: 06/01/2024] Open
Abstract
The development of cancer therapeutics is often hindered by the fact that specific oncogenes cannot be directly pharmaceutically addressed. Targeting deubiquitylases that stabilize these oncogenes provides a promising alternative. USP28 and USP25 have been identified as such target deubiquitylases, and several small-molecule inhibitors indiscriminately inhibiting both enzymes have been developed. To obtain insights into their mode of inhibition, we structurally and functionally characterized USP28 in the presence of the three different inhibitors AZ1, Vismodegib and FT206. The compounds bind into a common pocket acting as a molecular sink. Our analysis provides an explanation why the two enzymes are inhibited with similar potency while other deubiquitylases are not affected. Furthermore, a key glutamate residue at position 366/373 in USP28/USP25 plays a central structural role for pocket stability and thereby for inhibition and activity. Obstructing the inhibitor-binding pocket by mutation of this glutamate may provide a tool to accelerate future drug development efforts for selective inhibitors of either USP28 or USP25 targeting distinct binding pockets.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jonathan Vincent Patzke
- Rudolf Virchow Center for Integrative and Translational Bioimaging, Institute for Structural Biology, Julius-Maximilians-University Würzburg, Würzburg, Germany
| | - Florian Sauer
- Rudolf Virchow Center for Integrative and Translational Bioimaging, Institute for Structural Biology, Julius-Maximilians-University Würzburg, Würzburg, Germany
| | - Radhika Karal Nair
- Rudolf Virchow Center for Integrative and Translational Bioimaging, Institute for Structural Biology, Julius-Maximilians-University Würzburg, Würzburg, Germany
| | - Erik Endres
- Institute of Pharmacy and Food Chemistry, Julius-Maximilians-University Würzburg, Würzburg, Germany
| | - Ewgenij Proschak
- Institute of Pharmaceutical Chemistry, Goethe-University, Frankfurt am Main, Germany
- Fraunhofer Institute for Translational Medicine and Pharmacology ITMP, Frankfurt am Main, Germany
| | - Victor Hernandez-Olmos
- Fraunhofer Institute for Translational Medicine and Pharmacology ITMP, Frankfurt am Main, Germany
| | - Christoph Sotriffer
- Institute of Pharmacy and Food Chemistry, Julius-Maximilians-University Würzburg, Würzburg, Germany
| | - Caroline Kisker
- Rudolf Virchow Center for Integrative and Translational Bioimaging, Institute for Structural Biology, Julius-Maximilians-University Würzburg, Würzburg, Germany.
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3
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Klett T, Schwer M, Ernst LN, Engelhardt MU, Jaag SJ, Masberg B, Knappe C, Lämmerhofer M, Gehringer M, Boeckler FM. Evaluation of a Covalent Library of Diverse Warheads (CovLib) Binding to JNK3, USP7, or p53. Drug Des Devel Ther 2024; 18:2653-2679. [PMID: 38974119 PMCID: PMC11226190 DOI: 10.2147/dddt.s466829] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/09/2024] [Accepted: 06/12/2024] [Indexed: 07/09/2024] Open
Abstract
Purpose Over the last few years, covalent fragment-based drug discovery has gained significant importance. Thus, striving for more warhead diversity, we conceived a library consisting of 20 covalently reacting compounds. Our covalent fragment library (CovLib) contains four different warhead classes, including five α-cyanoacacrylamides/acrylates (CA), three epoxides (EO), four vinyl sulfones (VS), and eight electron-deficient heteroarenes with a leaving group (SNAr/SN). Methods After predicting the theoretical solubility of the fragments by LogP and LogS during the selection process, we determined their experimental solubility using a turbidimetric solubility assay. The reactivities of the different compounds were measured in a high-throughput 5,5'-dithiobis-(2-nitrobenzoic acid) DTNB assay, followed by a (glutathione) GSH stability assay. We employed the CovLib in a (differential scanning fluorimetry) DSF-based screening against different targets: c-Jun N-terminal kinase 3 (JNK3), ubiquitin-specific protease 7 (USP7), and the tumor suppressor p53. Finally, the covalent binding was confirmed by intact protein mass spectrometry (MS). Results In general, the purchased fragments turned out to be sufficiently soluble. Additionally, they covered a broad spectrum of reactivity. All investigated α-cyanoacrylamides/acrylates and all structurally confirmed epoxides turned out to be less reactive compounds, possibly due to steric hindrance and reversibility (for α-cyanoacrylamides/acrylates). The SNAr and vinyl sulfone fragments are either highly reactive or stable. DSF measurements with the different targets JNK3, USP7, and p53 identified reactive fragment hits causing a shift in the melting temperatures of the proteins. MS confirmed the covalent binding mode of all these fragments to USP7 and p53, while additionally identifying the SNAr-type electrophile SN002 as a mildly reactive covalent hit for p53. Conclusion The screening and target evaluation of the CovLib revealed first interesting hits. The highly cysteine-reactive fragments VS004, SN001, SN006, and SN007 covalently modify several target proteins and showed distinct shifts in the melting temperatures up to +5.1 °C and -9.1 °C.
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Affiliation(s)
- Theresa Klett
- Laboratory for Molecular Design & Pharmaceutical Biophysics, Institute of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Department of Pharmacy and Biochemistry, Eberhard Karls Universität Tübingen, Tübingen, 72076, Germany
| | - Martin Schwer
- Laboratory for Molecular Design & Pharmaceutical Biophysics, Institute of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Department of Pharmacy and Biochemistry, Eberhard Karls Universität Tübingen, Tübingen, 72076, Germany
| | - Larissa N Ernst
- Laboratory for Molecular Design & Pharmaceutical Biophysics, Institute of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Department of Pharmacy and Biochemistry, Eberhard Karls Universität Tübingen, Tübingen, 72076, Germany
| | - Marc U Engelhardt
- Laboratory for Molecular Design & Pharmaceutical Biophysics, Institute of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Department of Pharmacy and Biochemistry, Eberhard Karls Universität Tübingen, Tübingen, 72076, Germany
| | - Simon J Jaag
- Pharmaceutical (Bio-) Analysis, Institute of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Department of Pharmacy and Biochemistry, Eberhard Karls Universität Tübingen, Tübingen, 72076, Germany
| | - Benedikt Masberg
- Pharmaceutical (Bio-) Analysis, Institute of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Department of Pharmacy and Biochemistry, Eberhard Karls Universität Tübingen, Tübingen, 72076, Germany
| | - Cornelius Knappe
- Pharmaceutical (Bio-) Analysis, Institute of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Department of Pharmacy and Biochemistry, Eberhard Karls Universität Tübingen, Tübingen, 72076, Germany
| | - Michael Lämmerhofer
- Pharmaceutical (Bio-) Analysis, Institute of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Department of Pharmacy and Biochemistry, Eberhard Karls Universität Tübingen, Tübingen, 72076, Germany
| | - Matthias Gehringer
- Pharmaceutical Chemistry, Institute of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Department of Pharmacy and Biochemistry, Eberhard Karls Universität Tübingen, Tübingen, 72076, Germany
- Medicinal Chemistry, Institute for Biomedical Engineering, Eberhard Karls Universität Tübingen, Tübingen, 72076, Germany
| | - Frank M Boeckler
- Laboratory for Molecular Design & Pharmaceutical Biophysics, Institute of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Department of Pharmacy and Biochemistry, Eberhard Karls Universität Tübingen, Tübingen, 72076, Germany
- Interfaculty Institute for Biomedical Informatics (IBMI), Eberhard Karls Universität Tübingen, Tübingen, 72076, Germany
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Li Z, Wang Z, Zhong C, Zhang H, Liu R, An P, Ma Z, Lu J, Pan C, Zhang Z, Cao Z, Hu J, Xing D, Fei Y, Ding Y, Lu B. P53 upregulation by USP7-engaging molecular glues. Sci Bull (Beijing) 2024; 69:1936-1953. [PMID: 38734583 DOI: 10.1016/j.scib.2024.04.017] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/07/2023] [Revised: 02/01/2024] [Accepted: 02/19/2024] [Indexed: 05/13/2024]
Abstract
Molecular glues are typically small chemical molecules that act at the interface between a target protein and degradation machinery to trigger ternary complex formation. Identifying molecular glues is challenging. There is a scarcity of target-specific upregulating molecular glues, which are highly anticipated for numerous targets, including P53. P53 is degraded in proteasomes through polyubiquitination by specific E3 ligases, whereas deubiquitinases (DUBs) remove polyubiquitination conjugates to counteract these E3 ligases. Thus, small-molecular glues that enhance P53 anchoring to DUBs may stabilize P53 through deubiquitination. Here, using small-molecule microarray-based technology and unbiased screening, we identified three potential molecular glues that may tether P53 to the DUB, USP7, and elevate the P53 level. Among the molecular glues, bromocriptine (BC) is an FDA-approved drug with the most robust effects. BC was further verified to increase P53 stability via the predicted molecular glue mechanism engaging USP7. Consistent with P53 upregulation in cancer cells, BC was shown to inhibit the proliferation of cancer cells in vitro and suppress tumor growth in a xenograft model. In summary, we established a potential screening platform and identified potential molecular glues upregulating P53. Similar strategies could be applied to the identification of other types of molecular glues that may benefit drug discovery and chemical biology studies.
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Affiliation(s)
- Zhaoyang Li
- The State Key Laboratory of Medical Neurobiology and MOE Frontiers Center for Brain Science, Huashan Hospital, the Institutes of Brain Science, School of Life Sciences, Fudan University, Shanghai 200438, China.
| | - Ziying Wang
- The State Key Laboratory of Medical Neurobiology and MOE Frontiers Center for Brain Science, Huashan Hospital, the Institutes of Brain Science, School of Life Sciences, Fudan University, Shanghai 200438, China
| | - Chao Zhong
- The State Key Laboratory of Medical Neurobiology and MOE Frontiers Center for Brain Science, Huashan Hospital, the Institutes of Brain Science, School of Life Sciences, Fudan University, Shanghai 200438, China
| | - Hang Zhang
- Department of Optical Science and Engineering, Shanghai Engineering Research Center of Ultra-Precision Optical Manufacturing, Key Laboratory of Micro and Nano Photonic Structures (Ministry of Education), Fudan University, Shanghai 200438, China
| | - Rui Liu
- The State Key Laboratory of Medical Neurobiology and MOE Frontiers Center for Brain Science, Huashan Hospital, the Institutes of Brain Science, School of Life Sciences, Fudan University, Shanghai 200438, China
| | - Ping An
- The State Key Laboratory of Medical Neurobiology and MOE Frontiers Center for Brain Science, Huashan Hospital, the Institutes of Brain Science, School of Life Sciences, Fudan University, Shanghai 200438, China
| | - Zhiqiang Ma
- The State Key Laboratory of Medical Neurobiology and MOE Frontiers Center for Brain Science, Huashan Hospital, the Institutes of Brain Science, School of Life Sciences, Fudan University, Shanghai 200438, China
| | - Junmei Lu
- The State Key Laboratory of Medical Neurobiology and MOE Frontiers Center for Brain Science, Huashan Hospital, the Institutes of Brain Science, School of Life Sciences, Fudan University, Shanghai 200438, China
| | - Chengfang Pan
- The State Key Laboratory of Medical Neurobiology and MOE Frontiers Center for Brain Science, Huashan Hospital, the Institutes of Brain Science, School of Life Sciences, Fudan University, Shanghai 200438, China
| | - Zhaolin Zhang
- The State Key Laboratory of Medical Neurobiology and MOE Frontiers Center for Brain Science, Huashan Hospital, the Institutes of Brain Science, School of Life Sciences, Fudan University, Shanghai 200438, China
| | - Zhiyuan Cao
- The State Key Laboratory of Medical Neurobiology and MOE Frontiers Center for Brain Science, Huashan Hospital, the Institutes of Brain Science, School of Life Sciences, Fudan University, Shanghai 200438, China
| | - Jianyi Hu
- The State Key Laboratory of Medical Neurobiology and MOE Frontiers Center for Brain Science, Huashan Hospital, the Institutes of Brain Science, School of Life Sciences, Fudan University, Shanghai 200438, China
| | - Dong Xing
- Shanghai Engineering Research Center of Molecular Therapeutics and New Drug Development, School of Chemistry and Molecular Engineering, East China Normal University, Shanghai 200241, China
| | - Yiyan Fei
- Department of Optical Science and Engineering, Shanghai Engineering Research Center of Ultra-Precision Optical Manufacturing, Key Laboratory of Micro and Nano Photonic Structures (Ministry of Education), Fudan University, Shanghai 200438, China.
| | - Yu Ding
- The State Key Laboratory of Medical Neurobiology and MOE Frontiers Center for Brain Science, Huashan Hospital, the Institutes of Brain Science, School of Life Sciences, Fudan University, Shanghai 200438, China.
| | - Boxun Lu
- The State Key Laboratory of Medical Neurobiology and MOE Frontiers Center for Brain Science, Huashan Hospital, the Institutes of Brain Science, School of Life Sciences, Fudan University, Shanghai 200438, China.
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5
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Chen H, Ferguson CJ, Mitchell DC, Titus A, Paulo JA, Hwang A, Lin TH, Yano H, Gu W, Song SK, Yuede CM, Gygi SP, Bonni A, Kim AH. The Hao-Fountain syndrome protein USP7 regulates neuronal connectivity in the brain via a novel p53-independent ubiquitin signaling pathway. BIORXIV : THE PREPRINT SERVER FOR BIOLOGY 2024:2023.10.24.563880. [PMID: 37961719 PMCID: PMC10634808 DOI: 10.1101/2023.10.24.563880] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/15/2023]
Abstract
Precise control of protein ubiquitination is essential for brain development, and hence, disruption of ubiquitin signaling networks can lead to neurological disorders. Mutations of the deubiquitinase USP7 cause the Hao-Fountain syndrome (HAFOUS), characterized by developmental delay, intellectual disability, autism, and aggressive behavior. Here, we report that conditional deletion of USP7 in excitatory neurons in the mouse forebrain triggers diverse phenotypes including sensorimotor deficits, learning and memory impairment, and aggressive behavior, resembling clinical features of HAFOUS. USP7 deletion induces neuronal apoptosis in a manner dependent of the tumor suppressor p53. However, most behavioral abnormalities in USP7 conditional mice persist despite p53 loss. Strikingly, USP7 deletion in the brain perturbs the synaptic proteome and dendritic spine morphogenesis independently of p53. Integrated proteomics analysis reveals that the neuronal USP7 interactome is enriched for proteins implicated in neurodevelopmental disorders and specifically identifies the RNA splicing factor Ppil4 as a novel neuronal substrate of USP7. Knockdown of Ppil4 in cortical neurons impairs dendritic spine morphogenesis, phenocopying the effect of USP7 loss on dendritic spines. These findings reveal a novel USP7-Ppil4 ubiquitin signaling link that regulates neuronal connectivity in the developing brain, with implications for our understanding of the pathogenesis of HAFOUS and other neurodevelopmental disorders.
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6
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Gao B, Qiao Y, Zhu S, Yang N, Zou SS, Liu YJ, Chen J. USP36 inhibits apoptosis by deubiquitinating cIAP1 and survivin in colorectal cancer cells. J Biol Chem 2024; 300:107463. [PMID: 38876304 DOI: 10.1016/j.jbc.2024.107463] [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: 03/04/2024] [Revised: 05/19/2024] [Accepted: 05/30/2024] [Indexed: 06/16/2024] Open
Abstract
Chemotherapeutic agents for treating colorectal cancer (CRC) primarily induce apoptosis in tumor cells. The ubiquitin-proteasome system is critical for apoptosis regulation. Deubiquitinating enzymes (DUBs) remove ubiquitin from substrates to reverse ubiquitination. Although over 100 DUB members have been discovered, the biological functions of only a small proportion of DUBs have been characterized. Here, we aimed to systematically identify the DUBs that contribute to the development of CRC. Among the DUBs, ubiquitin-specific protease 36 (USP36) is upregulated in CRC. We showed that the knockdown of USP36 induces intrinsic and extrinsic apoptosis. Through gene silencing and coimmunoprecipitation techniques, we identified survivin and cIAP1 as USP36 targets. Mechanistically, USP36 binds and removes lysine-11-linked ubiquitin chains from cIAP1 and lysine-48-linked ubiquitin chains from survivin to abolish protein degradation. Overexpression of USP36 disrupts the formation of the XIAP-second mitochondria-derived activator of caspase complex and promotes receptor-interacting protein kinase 1 ubiquitination, validating USP36 as an inhibitor to intrinsic and extrinsic apoptosis through deubiquitinating survivin and cIAP1. Therefore, our results suggest that USP36 is involved in CRC progression and is a potential therapeutic target.
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Affiliation(s)
- Bao Gao
- Cancer Center, First Hospital of Jilin University, Changchun, Jilin, China; Laboratory for Tumor Immunology, First Hospital of Jilin University, Changchun, Jilin, China
| | - Yuan Qiao
- Laboratory for Tumor Immunology, First Hospital of Jilin University, Changchun, Jilin, China
| | - Shan Zhu
- Cancer Center, First Hospital of Jilin University, Changchun, Jilin, China; Laboratory for Tumor Immunology, First Hospital of Jilin University, Changchun, Jilin, China
| | - Ning Yang
- Laboratory for Tumor Immunology, First Hospital of Jilin University, Changchun, Jilin, China
| | - Shan-Shan Zou
- Laboratory for Tumor Immunology, First Hospital of Jilin University, Changchun, Jilin, China
| | - Yong-Jun Liu
- Laboratory for Tumor Immunology, First Hospital of Jilin University, Changchun, Jilin, China.
| | - Jingtao Chen
- Cancer Center, First Hospital of Jilin University, Changchun, Jilin, China; Laboratory for Tumor Immunology, First Hospital of Jilin University, Changchun, Jilin, China.
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7
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Lu L, Jifu C, Xia J, Wang J. E3 ligases and DUBs target ferroptosis: A potential therapeutic strategy for neurodegenerative diseases. Biomed Pharmacother 2024; 175:116753. [PMID: 38761423 DOI: 10.1016/j.biopha.2024.116753] [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: 03/14/2024] [Revised: 04/30/2024] [Accepted: 05/10/2024] [Indexed: 05/20/2024] Open
Abstract
Ferroptosis is a form of cell death mediated by iron and lipid peroxidation (LPO). Recent studies have provided compelling evidence to support the involvement of ferroptosis in the pathogenesis of various neurodegenerative diseases (NDDs), such as Alzheimer's disease (AD), Parkinson's disease (PD). Therefore, understanding the mechanisms that regulate ferroptosis in NDDs may improve disease management. Ferroptosis is regulated by multiple mechanisms, and different degradation pathways, including autophagy and the ubiquitinproteasome system (UPS), orchestrate the complex ferroptosis response by directly or indirectly regulating iron accumulation or lipid peroxidation. Ubiquitination plays a crucial role as a protein posttranslational modification in driving ferroptosis. Notably, E3 ubiquitin ligases (E3s) and deubiquitinating enzymes (DUBs) are key enzymes in the ubiquitin system, and their dysregulation is closely linked to the progression of NDDs. A growing body of evidence highlights the role of ubiquitin system enzymes in regulating ferroptosis sensitivity. However, reports on the interaction between ferroptosis and ubiquitin signaling in NDDs are scarce. In this review, we first provide a brief overview of the biological processes and roles of the UPS, summarize the core molecular mechanisms and potential biological functions of ferroptosis, and explore the pathophysiological relevance and therapeutic implications of ferroptosis in NDDs. In addition, reviewing the roles of E3s and DUBs in regulating ferroptosis in NDDs aims to provide new insights and strategies for the treatment of NDDs. These include E3- and DUB-targeted drugs and ferroptosis inhibitors, which can be used to prevent and ameliorate the progression of NDDs.
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Affiliation(s)
- Linxia Lu
- College of Basic Medicine, Jiamusi University, Jiamusi 154007, People's Republic of China
| | - Cili Jifu
- College of Basic Medicine, Jiamusi University, Jiamusi 154007, People's Republic of China
| | - Jun Xia
- College of Basic Medicine, Jiamusi University, Jiamusi 154007, People's Republic of China
| | - Jingtao Wang
- College of Basic Medicine, Jiamusi University, Jiamusi 154007, People's Republic of China.
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8
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Pandya MJ, Augustyniak W, Cliff MJ, Lindner I, Stinn A, Kahmann J, Temmerman K, Dannatt HRW, Waltho JP, Watson MJ. Backbone 1H, 13C and 15N resonance assignment of the ubiquitin specific protease 7 catalytic domain (residues 208-554) in complex with a small molecule ligand. BIOMOLECULAR NMR ASSIGNMENTS 2024; 18:33-44. [PMID: 38472728 DOI: 10.1007/s12104-024-10165-7] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/08/2023] [Accepted: 02/05/2024] [Indexed: 03/14/2024]
Abstract
The backbone 1H, 13C and 15N resonance assignment of Ubiquitin Specific Protease 7 catalytic domain (residues 208-554) was performed in its complex with a small molecule ligand and in its apo form as a reference. The amide 1H-15N signal intensities were boosted by an amide hydrogen exchange protocol, where expressed 2H, 13C, 15N-labeled protein was unfolded and re-folded to ensure exchange of amide deuterons to protons. The resonance assignments were used to determine chemical shift perturbations on ligand binding, which are consistent with the binding site observed by crystallography.
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Affiliation(s)
- Maya J Pandya
- Manchester Institute of Biotechnology, University of Manchester, Manchester, United Kingdom
- C4X Discovery Ltd, Manchester One, 53 Portland Street, Manchester, M1 3LD, United Kingdom
| | - Wojciech Augustyniak
- C4X Discovery Ltd, Manchester One, 53 Portland Street, Manchester, M1 3LD, United Kingdom.
| | - Matthew J Cliff
- Manchester Institute of Biotechnology, University of Manchester, Manchester, United Kingdom
| | - Ilka Lindner
- Biophysics Department, NMR and Protein Production, Evotec SE, Hamburg, Germany
| | - Anne Stinn
- Biophysics Department, NMR and Protein Production, Evotec SE, Hamburg, Germany
| | - Jan Kahmann
- Biophysics Department, NMR and Protein Production, Evotec SE, Hamburg, Germany
| | - Koen Temmerman
- Biophysics Department, NMR and Protein Production, Evotec SE, Hamburg, Germany
| | - Hugh R W Dannatt
- C4X Discovery Ltd, Manchester One, 53 Portland Street, Manchester, M1 3LD, United Kingdom
| | - Jonathan P Waltho
- Manchester Institute of Biotechnology, University of Manchester, Manchester, United Kingdom
| | - Martin J Watson
- C4X Discovery Ltd, Manchester One, 53 Portland Street, Manchester, M1 3LD, United Kingdom
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9
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Futran AS, Lu T, Amberg-Johnson K, Xu J, Yang X, He S, Boyce S, Bell JA, Pelletier R, Suzuki T, Huang X, Qian H, Fang L, Xing L, Xu Z, Kurtz SE, Tyner JW, Tang W, Guo T, Akinsanya K, Madge D, Jensen KK. Ubiquitin-specific protease 7 inhibitors reveal a differentiated mechanism of p53-driven anti-cancer activity. iScience 2024; 27:109693. [PMID: 38689642 PMCID: PMC11059122 DOI: 10.1016/j.isci.2024.109693] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/13/2023] [Revised: 01/11/2024] [Accepted: 04/05/2024] [Indexed: 05/02/2024] Open
Abstract
The USP7 deubiquitinase regulates proteins involved in the cell cycle, DNA repair, and epigenetics and has been implicated in cancer progression. USP7 inhibition has been pursued for the development of anti-cancer therapies. Here, we describe the discovery of potent and specific USP7 inhibitors exemplified by FX1-5303. FX1-5303 was used as a chemical probe to study the USP7-mediated regulation of p53 signaling in cells. It demonstrates mechanistic differences compared to MDM2 antagonists, a related class of anti-tumor agents that act along the same pathway. FX1-5303 synergizes with the clinically approved BCL2 inhibitor venetoclax in acute myeloid leukemia (AML) cell lines and ex vivo patient samples and leads to strong tumor growth inhibition in in vivo mouse xenograft models of multiple myeloma and AML. This work introduces new USP7 inhibitors, differentiates their mechanism of action from MDM2 inhibition, and identifies specific opportunities for their use in the treatment of AML.
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Affiliation(s)
- Alan S. Futran
- Schrödinger, 1540 Broadway 24th Floor, New York, NY, USA
| | - Tao Lu
- WuXi AppTec, 288 Fute Zhong Road, Waigaoqiao Free Trade Zone, Shanghai 200131, China
| | | | - Jiayi Xu
- Schrödinger, 1540 Broadway 24th Floor, New York, NY, USA
| | - Xiaoxiao Yang
- WuXi AppTec, 288 Fute Zhong Road, Waigaoqiao Free Trade Zone, Shanghai 200131, China
| | - Saidi He
- WuXi AppTec, 288 Fute Zhong Road, Waigaoqiao Free Trade Zone, Shanghai 200131, China
| | - Sarah Boyce
- Schrödinger, 1540 Broadway 24th Floor, New York, NY, USA
| | | | | | - Takao Suzuki
- WuXi AppTec, 288 Fute Zhong Road, Waigaoqiao Free Trade Zone, Shanghai 200131, China
| | - Xianhai Huang
- Schrödinger, 1540 Broadway 24th Floor, New York, NY, USA
| | - Heng Qian
- WuXi AppTec, 288 Fute Zhong Road, Waigaoqiao Free Trade Zone, Shanghai 200131, China
| | - Liping Fang
- WuXi AppTec, 288 Fute Zhong Road, Waigaoqiao Free Trade Zone, Shanghai 200131, China
| | - Li Xing
- WuXi AppTec, 288 Fute Zhong Road, Waigaoqiao Free Trade Zone, Shanghai 200131, China
| | - Zhaowu Xu
- WuXi AppTec, 288 Fute Zhong Road, Waigaoqiao Free Trade Zone, Shanghai 200131, China
| | - Stephen E. Kurtz
- Knight Cancer Institute, Oregon Health & Science University, Portland, OR, USA
- Division of Hematology & Medical Oncology, Department of Medicine, Oregon Health & Science University, Portland, OR, USA
| | - Jeffrey W. Tyner
- Knight Cancer Institute, Oregon Health & Science University, Portland, OR, USA
- Department of Cell, Developmental & Cancer Biology, Oregon Health & Science University, Portland, OR, USA
| | - Wayne Tang
- Schrödinger, 1540 Broadway 24th Floor, New York, NY, USA
| | - Tao Guo
- WuXi AppTec, 288 Fute Zhong Road, Waigaoqiao Free Trade Zone, Shanghai 200131, China
| | | | - David Madge
- WuXi AppTec, 288 Fute Zhong Road, Waigaoqiao Free Trade Zone, Shanghai 200131, China
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10
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Hsu SK, Chou CK, Lin IL, Chang WT, Kuo IY, Chiu CC. Deubiquitinating enzymes: potential regulators of the tumor microenvironment and implications for immune evasion. Cell Commun Signal 2024; 22:259. [PMID: 38715050 PMCID: PMC11075295 DOI: 10.1186/s12964-024-01633-7] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/26/2024] [Accepted: 04/24/2024] [Indexed: 05/12/2024] Open
Abstract
Ubiquitination and deubiquitination are important forms of posttranslational modification that govern protein homeostasis. Deubiquitinating enzymes (DUBs), a protein superfamily consisting of more than 100 members, deconjugate ubiquitin chains from client proteins to regulate cellular homeostasis. However, the dysregulation of DUBs is reportedly associated with several diseases, including cancer. The tumor microenvironment (TME) is a highly complex entity comprising diverse noncancerous cells (e.g., immune cells and stromal cells) and the extracellular matrix (ECM). Since TME heterogeneity is closely related to tumorigenesis and immune evasion, targeting TME components has recently been considered an attractive therapeutic strategy for restoring antitumor immunity. Emerging studies have revealed the involvement of DUBs in immune modulation within the TME, including the regulation of immune checkpoints and immunocyte infiltration and function, which renders DUBs promising for potent cancer immunotherapy. Nevertheless, the roles of DUBs in the crosstalk between tumors and their surrounding components have not been comprehensively reviewed. In this review, we discuss the involvement of DUBs in the dynamic interplay between tumors, immune cells, and stromal cells and illustrate how dysregulated DUBs facilitate immune evasion and promote tumor progression. We also summarize potential small molecules that target DUBs to alleviate immunosuppression and suppress tumorigenesis. Finally, we discuss the prospects and challenges regarding the targeting of DUBs in cancer immunotherapeutics and several urgent problems that warrant further investigation.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sheng-Kai Hsu
- Department of Biotechnology, Kaohsiung Medical University, Kaohsiung, 807, Taiwan
| | - Chon-Kit Chou
- State Key Laboratory of Quality Research in Chinese Medicine, Institute of Chinese Medical Science, University of Macau, Macau SAR, 999078, P.R. China
| | - I-Ling Lin
- Department of Medical Laboratory Science and Biotechnology, Kaohsiung Medical University, Kaohsiung, 807, Taiwan
| | - Wen-Tsan Chang
- Division of General and Digestive Surgery, Department of Surgery, Kaohsiung Medical University Hospital, Kaohsiung, 807, Taiwan
- Department of Surgery, School of Medicine, College of Medicine, Kaohsiung Medical University, Kaohsiung, 807, Taiwan
- Center for Cancer Research, Kaohsiung Medical University Hospital, Kaohsiung Medical University, Kaohsiung, 807, Taiwan
| | - I-Ying Kuo
- Department of Biotechnology, Kaohsiung Medical University, Kaohsiung, 807, Taiwan.
| | - Chien-Chih Chiu
- Department of Biotechnology, Kaohsiung Medical University, Kaohsiung, 807, Taiwan.
- Center for Cancer Research, Kaohsiung Medical University Hospital, Kaohsiung Medical University, Kaohsiung, 807, Taiwan.
- Department of Biological Sciences, National Sun Yat-Sen University, Kaohsiung, 804, Taiwan.
- Department of Medical Research, Kaohsiung Medical University Hospital, Kaohsiung, 807, Taiwan.
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11
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Guan X, Wang Y, Yu W, Wei Y, Lu Y, Dai E, Dong X, Zhao B, Hu C, Yuan L, Luan X, Miao K, Chen B, Cheng X, Zhang W, Qin J. Blocking Ubiquitin-Specific Protease 7 Induces Ferroptosis in Gastric Cancer via Targeting Stearoyl-CoA Desaturase. ADVANCED SCIENCE (WEINHEIM, BADEN-WURTTEMBERG, GERMANY) 2024; 11:e2307899. [PMID: 38460164 PMCID: PMC11095140 DOI: 10.1002/advs.202307899] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/19/2023] [Revised: 01/21/2024] [Indexed: 03/11/2024]
Abstract
Gastric cancer (GC) presents a formidable global health challenge, and conventional therapies face efficacy limitations. Ubiquitin-specific protease 7 (USP7) plays pivotal roles in GC development, immune response, and chemo-resistance, making it a promising target. Various USP7 inhibitors have shown selectivity and efficacy in preclinical studies. However, the mechanistic role of USP7 has not been fully elucidated, and currently, no USP7 inhibitors have been approved for clinical use. In this study, DHPO is identified as a potent USP7 inhibitor for GC treatment through in silico screening. DHPO demonstrates significant anti-tumor activity in vitro, inhibiting cell viability and clonogenic ability, and preventing tumor migration and invasion. In vivo studies using orthotopic gastric tumor mouse models validate DHPO's efficacy in suppressing tumor growth and metastasis without significant toxicity. Mechanistically, DHPO inhibition triggers ferroptosis, evidenced by mitochondrial alterations, lipid Reactive Oxygen Species (ROS), Malondialdehyde (MDA) accumulation, and iron overload. Further investigations unveil USP7's regulation of Stearoyl-CoA Desaturase (SCD) through deubiquitination, linking USP7 inhibition to SCD degradation and ferroptosis induction. Overall, this study identifies USP7 as a key player in ferroptosis of GC, elucidates DHPO's inhibitory mechanisms, and highlights its potential for GC treatment by inducing ferroptosis through SCD regulation.
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Affiliation(s)
- Xiaoqing Guan
- Zhejiang Cancer HospitalHangzhou Institute of Medicine (HIM)Chinese Academy of SciencesHangzhouZhejiang310022China
- Key Laboratory of PreventionDiagnosis and Therapy of Upper Gastrointestinal Cancer of Zhejiang ProvinceHangzhouZhejiang310022China
| | - Yichao Wang
- Zhejiang Cancer HospitalHangzhou Institute of Medicine (HIM)Chinese Academy of SciencesHangzhouZhejiang310022China
- College of Pharmaceutical SciencesZhejiang University of TechnologyHangzhouZhejiang310014China
| | - Wenkai Yu
- School of PharmacyZhejiang Chinese Medical UniversityHangzhouZhejiang310053China
| | - Yong Wei
- Zhejiang Cancer HospitalHangzhou Institute of Medicine (HIM)Chinese Academy of SciencesHangzhouZhejiang310022China
| | - Yang Lu
- Hangzhou Institute of Innovative MedicineInstitute of Drug Discovery and DesignCollege of Pharmaceutical SciencesZhejiang UniversityHangzhouZhejiang310058China
| | - Enyu Dai
- Department of Genomic MedicineThe University of Texas MD Anderson Cancer CenterHoustonTexas77030USA
| | - Xiaowu Dong
- Hangzhou Institute of Innovative MedicineInstitute of Drug Discovery and DesignCollege of Pharmaceutical SciencesZhejiang UniversityHangzhouZhejiang310058China
| | - Bing Zhao
- Zhejiang Cancer HospitalHangzhou Institute of Medicine (HIM)Chinese Academy of SciencesHangzhouZhejiang310022China
| | - Can Hu
- Zhejiang Cancer HospitalHangzhou Institute of Medicine (HIM)Chinese Academy of SciencesHangzhouZhejiang310022China
- Key Laboratory of PreventionDiagnosis and Therapy of Upper Gastrointestinal Cancer of Zhejiang ProvinceHangzhouZhejiang310022China
| | - Li Yuan
- Zhejiang Cancer HospitalHangzhou Institute of Medicine (HIM)Chinese Academy of SciencesHangzhouZhejiang310022China
- Key Laboratory of PreventionDiagnosis and Therapy of Upper Gastrointestinal Cancer of Zhejiang ProvinceHangzhouZhejiang310022China
| | - Xin Luan
- Institute of Interdisciplinary Integrative Medicine ResearchShanghai University of Traditional Chinese MedicineShanghai201203China
| | - Kai Miao
- MOE Frontier Science Centre for Precision OncologyUniversity of MacauMacau SAR999078China
| | - Bonan Chen
- Department of Anatomical and Cellular PathologyPrince of Wales HospitalThe Chinese University of Hong KongHong Kong999077China
| | - Xiang‐Dong Cheng
- Zhejiang Cancer HospitalHangzhou Institute of Medicine (HIM)Chinese Academy of SciencesHangzhouZhejiang310022China
- Key Laboratory of PreventionDiagnosis and Therapy of Upper Gastrointestinal Cancer of Zhejiang ProvinceHangzhouZhejiang310022China
| | - Weidong Zhang
- Institute of Interdisciplinary Integrative Medicine ResearchShanghai University of Traditional Chinese MedicineShanghai201203China
- School of PharmacyNaval Medical UniversityShanghai200433China
- State Key Laboratory for Quality Ensurance and Sustainable Use of Dao‐di HerbsInstitute of Medicinal Plant DevelopmentChinese Academy of Medical Science and Peking Union Medical CollegeBeijing100193China
| | - Jiang‐Jiang Qin
- Zhejiang Cancer HospitalHangzhou Institute of Medicine (HIM)Chinese Academy of SciencesHangzhouZhejiang310022China
- Key Laboratory of PreventionDiagnosis and Therapy of Upper Gastrointestinal Cancer of Zhejiang ProvinceHangzhouZhejiang310022China
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12
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Liu JCY, Ackermann L, Hoffmann S, Gál Z, Hendriks IA, Jain C, Morlot L, Tatham MH, McLelland GL, Hay RT, Nielsen ML, Brummelkamp T, Haahr P, Mailand N. Concerted SUMO-targeted ubiquitin ligase activities of TOPORS and RNF4 are essential for stress management and cell proliferation. Nat Struct Mol Biol 2024:10.1038/s41594-024-01294-7. [PMID: 38649616 DOI: 10.1038/s41594-024-01294-7] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/05/2023] [Accepted: 03/26/2024] [Indexed: 04/25/2024]
Abstract
Protein SUMOylation provides a principal driving force for cellular stress responses, including DNA-protein crosslink (DPC) repair and arsenic-induced PML body degradation. In this study, using genome-scale screens, we identified the human E3 ligase TOPORS as a key effector of SUMO-dependent DPC resolution. We demonstrate that TOPORS promotes DPC repair by functioning as a SUMO-targeted ubiquitin ligase (STUbL), combining ubiquitin ligase activity through its RING domain with poly-SUMO binding via SUMO-interacting motifs, analogous to the STUbL RNF4. Mechanistically, TOPORS is a SUMO1-selective STUbL that complements RNF4 in generating complex ubiquitin landscapes on SUMOylated targets, including DPCs and PML, stimulating efficient p97/VCP unfoldase recruitment and proteasomal degradation. Combined loss of TOPORS and RNF4 is synthetic lethal even in unstressed cells, involving defective clearance of SUMOylated proteins from chromatin accompanied by cell cycle arrest and apoptosis. Our findings establish TOPORS as a STUbL whose parallel action with RNF4 defines a general mechanistic principle in crucial cellular processes governed by direct SUMO-ubiquitin crosstalk.
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Affiliation(s)
- Julio C Y Liu
- Protein Signaling Program, Novo Nordisk Foundation Center for Protein Research, University of Copenhagen, Copenhagen, Denmark
| | - Leena Ackermann
- Protein Signaling Program, Novo Nordisk Foundation Center for Protein Research, University of Copenhagen, Copenhagen, Denmark
| | - Saskia Hoffmann
- Protein Signaling Program, Novo Nordisk Foundation Center for Protein Research, University of Copenhagen, Copenhagen, Denmark
| | - Zita Gál
- Protein Signaling Program, Novo Nordisk Foundation Center for Protein Research, University of Copenhagen, Copenhagen, Denmark
| | - Ivo A Hendriks
- Proteomics Program, Novo Nordisk Foundation Center for Protein Research, University of Copenhagen, Copenhagen, Denmark
| | - Charu Jain
- Protein Signaling Program, Novo Nordisk Foundation Center for Protein Research, University of Copenhagen, Copenhagen, Denmark
| | - Louise Morlot
- Protein Signaling Program, Novo Nordisk Foundation Center for Protein Research, University of Copenhagen, Copenhagen, Denmark
| | - Michael H Tatham
- Centre for Gene Regulation and Expression, School of Life Sciences, University of Dundee, Dundee, UK
| | - Gian-Luca McLelland
- Division of Biochemistry, The Netherlands Cancer Institute, Amsterdam, The Netherlands
| | - Ronald T Hay
- Centre for Gene Regulation and Expression, School of Life Sciences, University of Dundee, Dundee, UK
| | - Michael Lund Nielsen
- Proteomics Program, Novo Nordisk Foundation Center for Protein Research, University of Copenhagen, Copenhagen, Denmark
| | - Thijn Brummelkamp
- Division of Biochemistry, The Netherlands Cancer Institute, Amsterdam, The Netherlands
- Oncode Institute, Utrecht, The Netherlands
| | - Peter Haahr
- Division of Biochemistry, The Netherlands Cancer Institute, Amsterdam, The Netherlands.
- Department of Cellular and Molecular Medicine, Center for Gene Expression, University of Copenhagen, Copenhagen, Denmark.
| | - Niels Mailand
- Protein Signaling Program, Novo Nordisk Foundation Center for Protein Research, University of Copenhagen, Copenhagen, Denmark.
- Department of Cellular and Molecular Medicine, Center for Chromosome Stability, University of Copenhagen, Copenhagen, Denmark.
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13
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Foster BM, Wang Z, Schmidt CK. DoUBLing up: ubiquitin and ubiquitin-like proteases in genome stability. Biochem J 2024; 481:515-545. [PMID: 38572758 PMCID: PMC11088880 DOI: 10.1042/bcj20230284] [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: 12/18/2023] [Revised: 03/05/2024] [Accepted: 03/18/2024] [Indexed: 04/05/2024]
Abstract
Maintaining stability of the genome requires dedicated DNA repair and signalling processes that are essential for the faithful duplication and propagation of chromosomes. These DNA damage response (DDR) mechanisms counteract the potentially mutagenic impact of daily genotoxic stresses from both exogenous and endogenous sources. Inherent to these DNA repair pathways is the activity of protein factors that instigate repair processes in response to DNA lesions. The regulation, coordination, and orchestration of these DDR factors is carried out, in a large part, by post-translational modifications, such as phosphorylation, ubiquitylation, and modification with ubiquitin-like proteins (UBLs). The importance of ubiquitylation and UBLylation with SUMO in DNA repair is well established, with the modified targets and downstream signalling consequences relatively well characterised. However, the role of dedicated erasers for ubiquitin and UBLs, known as deubiquitylases (DUBs) and ubiquitin-like proteases (ULPs) respectively, in genome stability is less well established, particularly for emerging UBLs such as ISG15 and UFM1. In this review, we provide an overview of the known regulatory roles and mechanisms of DUBs and ULPs involved in genome stability pathways. Expanding our understanding of the molecular agents and mechanisms underlying the removal of ubiquitin and UBL modifications will be fundamental for progressing our knowledge of the DDR and likely provide new therapeutic avenues for relevant human diseases, such as cancer.
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Affiliation(s)
- Benjamin M. Foster
- Manchester Cancer Research Centre (MCRC), Division of Cancer Sciences, School of Medical Sciences, Faculty of Biology, Medicine and Health, University of Manchester, 555 Wilmslow Road, Manchester M20 4GJ, U.K
| | - Zijuan Wang
- Manchester Cancer Research Centre (MCRC), Division of Cancer Sciences, School of Medical Sciences, Faculty of Biology, Medicine and Health, University of Manchester, 555 Wilmslow Road, Manchester M20 4GJ, U.K
| | - Christine K. Schmidt
- Manchester Cancer Research Centre (MCRC), Division of Cancer Sciences, School of Medical Sciences, Faculty of Biology, Medicine and Health, University of Manchester, 555 Wilmslow Road, Manchester M20 4GJ, U.K
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14
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Cao X, Yan Z, Chen Z, Ge Y, Hu X, Peng F, Huang W, Zhang P, Sun R, Chen J, Ding M, Zong D, He X. The Emerging Role of Deubiquitinases in Radiosensitivity. Int J Radiat Oncol Biol Phys 2024; 118:1347-1370. [PMID: 38092257 DOI: 10.1016/j.ijrobp.2023.12.003] [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: 08/11/2023] [Revised: 11/03/2023] [Accepted: 12/03/2023] [Indexed: 02/05/2024]
Abstract
Radiation therapy is a primary treatment for cancer, but radioresistance remains a significant challenge in improving efficacy and reducing toxicity. Accumulating evidence suggests that deubiquitinases (DUBs) play a crucial role in regulating cell sensitivity to ionizing radiation. Traditional small-molecule DUB inhibitors have demonstrated radiosensitization effects, and novel deubiquitinase-targeting chimeras (DUBTACs) provide a promising strategy for radiosensitizer development by harnessing the ubiquitin-proteasome system. This review highlights the mechanisms by which DUBs regulate radiosensitivity, including DNA damage repair, the cell cycle, cell death, and hypoxia. Progress on DUB inhibitors and DUBTACs is summarized, and their potential radiosensitization effects are discussed. Developing drugs targeting DUBs appears to be a promising alternative approach to overcoming radioresistance, warranting further research into their mechanisms.
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Affiliation(s)
- Xiang Cao
- Affiliated Cancer Hospital of Nanjing Medical University, Jiangsu Cancer Hospital, and Jiangsu Institute of Cancer Research, Nanjing, Jiangsu, China
| | - Zhenyu Yan
- Affiliated Cancer Hospital of Nanjing Medical University, Jiangsu Cancer Hospital, and Jiangsu Institute of Cancer Research, Nanjing, Jiangsu, China
| | - Zihan Chen
- Xuzhou Medical University, Xuzhou, Jiangsu, China
| | - Yizhi Ge
- Affiliated Cancer Hospital of Nanjing Medical University, Jiangsu Cancer Hospital, and Jiangsu Institute of Cancer Research, Nanjing, Jiangsu, China
| | - Xinyu Hu
- Affiliated Cancer Hospital of Nanjing Medical University, Jiangsu Cancer Hospital, and Jiangsu Institute of Cancer Research, Nanjing, Jiangsu, China
| | - Fanyu Peng
- Affiliated Cancer Hospital of Nanjing Medical University, Jiangsu Cancer Hospital, and Jiangsu Institute of Cancer Research, Nanjing, Jiangsu, China
| | - Wenxuan Huang
- Affiliated Cancer Hospital of Nanjing Medical University, Jiangsu Cancer Hospital, and Jiangsu Institute of Cancer Research, Nanjing, Jiangsu, China
| | - Pingchuan Zhang
- Affiliated Cancer Hospital of Nanjing Medical University, Jiangsu Cancer Hospital, and Jiangsu Institute of Cancer Research, Nanjing, Jiangsu, China
| | - Ruozhou Sun
- Affiliated Cancer Hospital of Nanjing Medical University, Jiangsu Cancer Hospital, and Jiangsu Institute of Cancer Research, Nanjing, Jiangsu, China
| | - Jiazhen Chen
- Affiliated Cancer Hospital of Nanjing Medical University, Jiangsu Cancer Hospital, and Jiangsu Institute of Cancer Research, Nanjing, Jiangsu, China
| | - Mingjun Ding
- Affiliated Cancer Hospital of Nanjing Medical University, Jiangsu Cancer Hospital, and Jiangsu Institute of Cancer Research, Nanjing, Jiangsu, China
| | - Dan Zong
- Affiliated Cancer Hospital of Nanjing Medical University, Jiangsu Cancer Hospital, and Jiangsu Institute of Cancer Research, Nanjing, Jiangsu, China.
| | - Xia He
- Affiliated Cancer Hospital of Nanjing Medical University, Jiangsu Cancer Hospital, and Jiangsu Institute of Cancer Research, Nanjing, Jiangsu, China; Xuzhou Medical University, Xuzhou, Jiangsu, China; Department of Environmental Genomics, Jiangsu Key Laboratory of Cancer Biomarkers, Prevention and Treatment, Collaborative Innovation Center for Cancer Personalized Medicine, Nanjing Medical University, Nanjing, China.
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15
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Guo NJ, Wang B, Zhang Y, Kang HQ, Nie HQ, Feng MK, Zhang XY, Zhao LJ, Wang N, Liu HM, Zheng YC, Li W, Gao Y. USP7 as an emerging therapeutic target: A key regulator of protein homeostasis. Int J Biol Macromol 2024; 263:130309. [PMID: 38382779 DOI: 10.1016/j.ijbiomac.2024.130309] [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: 10/02/2023] [Revised: 01/19/2024] [Accepted: 02/18/2024] [Indexed: 02/23/2024]
Abstract
Maintaining protein balance within a cell is essential for proper cellular function, and disruptions in the ubiquitin-proteasome pathway, which is responsible for degrading and recycling unnecessary or damaged proteins, can lead to various diseases. Deubiquitinating enzymes play a vital role in regulating protein homeostasis by removing ubiquitin chains from substrate proteins, thereby controlling important cellular processes, such as apoptosis and DNA repair. Among these enzymes, ubiquitin-specific protease 7 (USP7) is of particular interest. USP7 is a cysteine protease consisting of a TRAF region, catalytic region, and C-terminal ubiquitin-like (UBL) region, and it interacts with tumor suppressors, transcription factors, and other key proteins involved in cell cycle regulation and epigenetic control. Moreover, USP7 has been implicated in the pathogenesis and progression of various diseases, including cancer, inflammation, neurodegenerative conditions, and viral infections. Overall, characterizing the functions of USP7 is crucial for understanding the pathophysiology of diverse diseases and devising innovative therapeutic strategies. This article reviews the structure and function of USP7 and its complexes, its association with diseases, and its known inhibitors and thus represents a valuable resource for advancing USP7 inhibitor development and promoting potential future treatment options for a wide range of diseases.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ning-Jie Guo
- State Key Laboratory of Esophageal Cancer Prevention & Treatment, Key Laboratory of Advanced Drug Preparation Technologies, Ministry of Education of China, Key Laboratory of Henan Province for Drug Quality and Evaluation, Henan Province, Institute of Drug Discovery and Development; School of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Zhengzhou University, 100 Kexue Avenue, Zhengzhou, Henan 450001, China
| | - Bo Wang
- State Key Laboratory of Esophageal Cancer Prevention & Treatment, Key Laboratory of Advanced Drug Preparation Technologies, Ministry of Education of China, Key Laboratory of Henan Province for Drug Quality and Evaluation, Henan Province, Institute of Drug Discovery and Development; School of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Zhengzhou University, 100 Kexue Avenue, Zhengzhou, Henan 450001, China
| | - Yu Zhang
- State Key Laboratory of Esophageal Cancer Prevention & Treatment, Key Laboratory of Advanced Drug Preparation Technologies, Ministry of Education of China, Key Laboratory of Henan Province for Drug Quality and Evaluation, Henan Province, Institute of Drug Discovery and Development; School of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Zhengzhou University, 100 Kexue Avenue, Zhengzhou, Henan 450001, China
| | - Hui-Qin Kang
- State Key Laboratory of Esophageal Cancer Prevention & Treatment, Key Laboratory of Advanced Drug Preparation Technologies, Ministry of Education of China, Key Laboratory of Henan Province for Drug Quality and Evaluation, Henan Province, Institute of Drug Discovery and Development; School of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Zhengzhou University, 100 Kexue Avenue, Zhengzhou, Henan 450001, China
| | - Hai-Qian Nie
- State Key Laboratory of Esophageal Cancer Prevention & Treatment, Key Laboratory of Advanced Drug Preparation Technologies, Ministry of Education of China, Key Laboratory of Henan Province for Drug Quality and Evaluation, Henan Province, Institute of Drug Discovery and Development; School of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Zhengzhou University, 100 Kexue Avenue, Zhengzhou, Henan 450001, China
| | - Meng-Kai Feng
- State Key Laboratory of Esophageal Cancer Prevention & Treatment, Key Laboratory of Advanced Drug Preparation Technologies, Ministry of Education of China, Key Laboratory of Henan Province for Drug Quality and Evaluation, Henan Province, Institute of Drug Discovery and Development; School of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Zhengzhou University, 100 Kexue Avenue, Zhengzhou, Henan 450001, China
| | - Xi-Ya Zhang
- State Key Laboratory of Esophageal Cancer Prevention & Treatment, Key Laboratory of Advanced Drug Preparation Technologies, Ministry of Education of China, Key Laboratory of Henan Province for Drug Quality and Evaluation, Henan Province, Institute of Drug Discovery and Development; School of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Zhengzhou University, 100 Kexue Avenue, Zhengzhou, Henan 450001, China
| | - Li-Juan Zhao
- State Key Laboratory of Esophageal Cancer Prevention & Treatment, Key Laboratory of Advanced Drug Preparation Technologies, Ministry of Education of China, Key Laboratory of Henan Province for Drug Quality and Evaluation, Henan Province, Institute of Drug Discovery and Development; School of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Zhengzhou University, 100 Kexue Avenue, Zhengzhou, Henan 450001, China
| | - Ning Wang
- The School of Chinese Medicine, The University of Hong Kong, Pokfulam, Hong Kong, China
| | - Hong-Min Liu
- State Key Laboratory of Esophageal Cancer Prevention & Treatment, Key Laboratory of Advanced Drug Preparation Technologies, Ministry of Education of China, Key Laboratory of Henan Province for Drug Quality and Evaluation, Henan Province, Institute of Drug Discovery and Development; School of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Zhengzhou University, 100 Kexue Avenue, Zhengzhou, Henan 450001, China
| | - Yi-Chao Zheng
- State Key Laboratory of Esophageal Cancer Prevention & Treatment, Key Laboratory of Advanced Drug Preparation Technologies, Ministry of Education of China, Key Laboratory of Henan Province for Drug Quality and Evaluation, Henan Province, Institute of Drug Discovery and Development; School of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Zhengzhou University, 100 Kexue Avenue, Zhengzhou, Henan 450001, China.
| | - Wen Li
- State Key Laboratory of Esophageal Cancer Prevention & Treatment, Key Laboratory of Advanced Drug Preparation Technologies, Ministry of Education of China, Key Laboratory of Henan Province for Drug Quality and Evaluation, Henan Province, Institute of Drug Discovery and Development; School of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Zhengzhou University, 100 Kexue Avenue, Zhengzhou, Henan 450001, China.
| | - Ya Gao
- State Key Laboratory of Esophageal Cancer Prevention & Treatment, Key Laboratory of Advanced Drug Preparation Technologies, Ministry of Education of China, Key Laboratory of Henan Province for Drug Quality and Evaluation, Henan Province, Institute of Drug Discovery and Development; School of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Zhengzhou University, 100 Kexue Avenue, Zhengzhou, Henan 450001, China.
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16
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Jurisic A, Sung P, Wappett M, Daubriac J, Lobb IT, Kung W, Crawford N, Page N, Cassidy E, Feutren‐Burton S, Rountree JSS, Helm MD, O'Dowd CR, Kennedy RD, Gavory G, Cranston AN, Longley DB, Jacq X, Harrison T. USP7 inhibitors suppress tumour neoangiogenesis and promote synergy with immune checkpoint inhibitors by downregulating fibroblast VEGF. Clin Transl Med 2024; 14:e1648. [PMID: 38602256 PMCID: PMC11007818 DOI: 10.1002/ctm2.1648] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/13/2023] [Revised: 02/23/2024] [Accepted: 03/17/2024] [Indexed: 04/12/2024] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Understanding how to modulate the microenvironment of tumors that are resistant to immune checkpoint inhibitors represents a major challenge in oncology.Here we investigate the ability of USP7 inhibitors to reprogram the tumor microenvironment (TME) by inhibiting secretion of vascular endothelial growth factor (VEGF) from fibroblasts. METHODS To understand the role played by USP7 in the TME, we systematically evaluated the effects of potent, selective USP7 inhibitors on co-cultures comprising components of the TME, using human primary cells. We also evaluated the effects of USP7 inhibition on tumor growth inhibition in syngeneic models when dosed in combination with immune checkpoint inhibitors (ICIs). RESULTS Abrogation of VEGF secretion from fibroblasts in response to USP7 inhibition resulted in inhibition of tumor neoangiogenesis and increased tumor recruitment of CD8-positive T-lymphocytes, leading to significantly improved sensitivity to immune checkpoint inhibitors. In syngeneic models, treatment with USP7 inhibitors led to striking tumor responses resulting in significantly improved survival. CONCLUSIONS USP7-mediated reprograming of the TME is not linked to its previously characterized role in modulating MDM2 but does require p53 and UHRF1 in addition to the well-characterized VEGF transcription factor, HIF-1α. This represents a function of USP7 that is unique to fibroblasts, and which is not observed in cancer cells or other components of the TME. Given the potential for USP7 inhibitors to transform "immune desert" tumors into "immune responsive" tumors, this paves the way for a novel therapeutic strategy combining USP7 inhibitors with immune checkpoint inhibitors (ICIs).
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Pei‐Ju Sung
- Almac Discovery Ltd., Health Science BuildingBelfastUK
| | - Mark Wappett
- Almac Discovery Ltd., Health Science BuildingBelfastUK
- Patrick G Johnston Centre for Cancer ResearchQueen's University BelfastBelfastUK
| | | | - Ian T. Lobb
- Almac Discovery Ltd., Health Science BuildingBelfastUK
| | - Wei‐Wei Kung
- Almac Discovery Ltd., Health Science BuildingBelfastUK
| | | | - Natalie Page
- Almac Discovery Ltd., Health Science BuildingBelfastUK
| | - Eamon Cassidy
- Almac Discovery Ltd., Health Science BuildingBelfastUK
| | | | | | | | | | | | - Gerald Gavory
- Almac Discovery Ltd., Health Science BuildingBelfastUK
| | | | - Daniel B. Longley
- Almac Discovery Ltd., Health Science BuildingBelfastUK
- Patrick G Johnston Centre for Cancer ResearchQueen's University BelfastBelfastUK
| | - Xavier Jacq
- Almac Discovery Ltd., Health Science BuildingBelfastUK
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17
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Son Y, Su Yang J, Chul Shin S, Kyoung Park S, Kim Y, Park J, Yu J. Structural optimization and biological evaluation of ML364 based derivatives as USP2a inhibitors. Bioorg Chem 2024; 145:107222. [PMID: 38401359 DOI: 10.1016/j.bioorg.2024.107222] [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: 11/30/2023] [Revised: 01/29/2024] [Accepted: 02/16/2024] [Indexed: 02/26/2024]
Abstract
Ubiquitination is a representative post-translational modification that tags target proteins with ubiquitin to induce protein degradation or modify their functions. Deubiquitinating enzymes (DUBs) play a crucial role in reversing this process by removing ubiquitin from target proteins. Among them, USP2a has emerged as a promising target for cancer therapy due to its oncogenic properties in various cancer types, but its inhibitors have been limited. In this study, our aim was to optimize the structure of ML364, a USP2a inhibitor, and synthesize a series of its derivatives to develop potent USP2a inhibitors. Compound 8v emerged as a potential USP2a inhibitor with lower cytotoxicity compared to ML364. Cellular assays demonstrated that compound 8v effectively reduced the levels of USP2a substrates and attenuated cancer cell growth. We confirmed its direct interaction with the catalytic domain of USP2a and its selective inhibitory activity against USP2a over other USP subfamily proteins (USP7, 8, or 15). In conclusion, compound 8v has been identified as a potent USP2a inhibitor with substantial potential for cancer therapy.
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Affiliation(s)
- Youngchai Son
- College of Pharmacy and Graduate School of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Ewha Womans University, Seoul 03760, Republic of Korea
| | - Ji Su Yang
- Biomedical Research Division, Center for Advanced Biomolecular Recognition, Korea Institute of Science and Technology (KIST), Seoul 02792, Republic of Korea
| | - Sang Chul Shin
- Research Resources Division, Technological Convergence Center, Korea Institute of Science and Technology (KIST), Seoul 02792, Republic of Korea
| | - Seo Kyoung Park
- College of Pharmacy and Graduate School of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Ewha Womans University, Seoul 03760, Republic of Korea
| | - Yeojin Kim
- Biomedical Research Division, Center for Advanced Biomolecular Recognition, Korea Institute of Science and Technology (KIST), Seoul 02792, Republic of Korea; Department of Life Sciences, College of Life Sciences and Biotechnology, Korea University, Seoul 02841, Republic of Korea
| | - Jinyoung Park
- Biomedical Research Division, Center for Advanced Biomolecular Recognition, Korea Institute of Science and Technology (KIST), Seoul 02792, Republic of Korea; Division of Bio‑Medical Science and Technology, KIST‑School, University of Science and Technology (UST), Seoul 02792, Republic of Korea.
| | - Jinha Yu
- College of Pharmacy and Graduate School of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Ewha Womans University, Seoul 03760, Republic of Korea.
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18
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Cheng YJ, Zhuang Z, Miao YL, Song SS, Bao XB, Yang CH, He JX. Identification of YCH2823 as a novel USP7 inhibitor for cancer therapy. Biochem Pharmacol 2024; 222:116071. [PMID: 38387527 DOI: 10.1016/j.bcp.2024.116071] [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: 12/11/2023] [Revised: 01/26/2024] [Accepted: 02/19/2024] [Indexed: 02/24/2024]
Abstract
Inhibition of the human ubiquitin-specific protease 7 (USP7), the key deubiquitylating enzyme in regulating p53 protein levels, has been considered an attractive anticancer strategy. In order to enhance the cellular activity of FT671, scaffold hopping strategy was employed. This endeavor resulted in the discovery of YCH2823, a novel and potent USP7 inhibitor.YCH2823 demonstrated remarkable efficacy in inhibiting the growth of a specific subset of TP53 wild-type, -mutant, and MYCN-amplified cell lines, surpassing the potency of FT671 by approximately 5-fold. The mechanism of action of YCH2823 involves direct interaction with the catalytic domain of USP7, thereby impeding the cleavage of ubiquitinated substrates. An increase in the expression of p53 and p21, accompanied by G1 phase arrest and apoptosis, was observed upon treatment with YCH2823. Subsequently, the knockdown of p53 or p21 in CHP-212 cells exhibited a substantial reduction in sensitivity to YCH2823, as evidenced by a considerable increase in IC50 values up to 690-fold. Furthermore, YCH2823 treatment specifically enhanced the transcriptional and protein levels of BCL6 in sensitive cells. Moreover, a synergistic effect between USP7 inhibitors and mTOR inhibitors was observed, suggesting the possibility of novel therapeutic strategies for cancer treatment. In conclusion, YCH2823 exhibits potential as an anticancer agent for the treatment of both TP53 wild-type and -mutant tumors.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yong-Jun Cheng
- State Key Laboratory of Drug Research, Cancer Research Center, Shanghai Institute of Materia Medica, Chinese Academy of Sciences, 501 Haike Road, Shanghai 201203, China; University of Chinese Academy of Sciences, No.19A Yuquan Road, Beijing 100049, China; School of Chinese Materia Medica, Nanjing University of Chinese Medicine, 138 Xian Lin Avenue, Nanjing 210046 China
| | - Zhen Zhuang
- State Key Laboratory of Drug Research, Shanghai Institute of Materia Medica, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Shanghai 201203, China; University of Chinese Academy of Sciences, No.19A Yuquan Road, Beijing 100049, China
| | - Yu-Ling Miao
- State Key Laboratory of Drug Research, Cancer Research Center, Shanghai Institute of Materia Medica, Chinese Academy of Sciences, 501 Haike Road, Shanghai 201203, China; University of Chinese Academy of Sciences, No.19A Yuquan Road, Beijing 100049, China
| | - Shan-Shan Song
- State Key Laboratory of Drug Research, Cancer Research Center, Shanghai Institute of Materia Medica, Chinese Academy of Sciences, 501 Haike Road, Shanghai 201203, China; University of Chinese Academy of Sciences, No.19A Yuquan Road, Beijing 100049, China
| | - Xu-Bin Bao
- State Key Laboratory of Drug Research, Cancer Research Center, Shanghai Institute of Materia Medica, Chinese Academy of Sciences, 501 Haike Road, Shanghai 201203, China; University of Chinese Academy of Sciences, No.19A Yuquan Road, Beijing 100049, China
| | - Chun-Hao Yang
- State Key Laboratory of Drug Research, Shanghai Institute of Materia Medica, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Shanghai 201203, China; University of Chinese Academy of Sciences, No.19A Yuquan Road, Beijing 100049, China.
| | - Jin-Xue He
- State Key Laboratory of Drug Research, Cancer Research Center, Shanghai Institute of Materia Medica, Chinese Academy of Sciences, 501 Haike Road, Shanghai 201203, China; University of Chinese Academy of Sciences, No.19A Yuquan Road, Beijing 100049, China; School of Chinese Materia Medica, Nanjing University of Chinese Medicine, 138 Xian Lin Avenue, Nanjing 210046 China.
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19
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Zadi S, Javaid S, Atia-tul-Wahab, Zafar H, Awais M, Maslennikov I, Choudhary MI. Repurposing of US-FDA-approved drugs as negative modulators of ubiquitin specific protease-7 (USP7). Heliyon 2024; 10:e26345. [PMID: 38468948 PMCID: PMC10925992 DOI: 10.1016/j.heliyon.2024.e26345] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/27/2023] [Revised: 02/10/2024] [Accepted: 02/12/2024] [Indexed: 03/13/2024] Open
Abstract
Ubiquitin-specific protease7 (USP7) regulates the stability of the p53 tumor suppressor protein and several other proteins critical for tumor cell survival. Aberrant expression of USP7 facilitates human malignancies by altering the activity of proto-oncogenes/proteins, and tumor suppressor genes. Therefore, USP7 is a validated anti-cancer drug target. In this study, a drug repurposing approach was used to identify new hits against the USP7 enzyme. It is one of the most strategic approaches to find new uses for drugs in a cost- and time-effective way. Nuclear Magnetic Resonance-based screening of 172 drugs identified 11 compounds that bind to the catalytic domain of USP7 with dissociation constant (Kd) values in the range of 0.6-1.49 mM. These 11 compounds could thermally destabilize the USP7 enzyme by decreasing its melting temperature up to 9 °C. Molecular docking and simulation studies provided structural insights into the ligand-protein complexes, suggesting that these compounds bind to the putative substrate binding pocket of USP7, and interact with its catalytically important residues. Among the identified 11 hits, compound 6 (oxybutynin), 7 (ketotifen), 10 (pantoprazole sodium), and 11 (escitalopram) also showed anti-cancer activity with an effect on the expression of proto-oncogenes and tumor-suppressor gene at mRNA level in HCT116 cells. The compounds identified in this study can serve as potential leads for further studies.
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Affiliation(s)
- Seema Zadi
- Dr. Panjwani Center for Molecular Medicine and Drug Research, International Center of Chemical and Biological Sciences, University of Karachi, Karachi, 75270, Pakistan
| | - Sumaira Javaid
- Dr. Panjwani Center for Molecular Medicine and Drug Research, International Center of Chemical and Biological Sciences, University of Karachi, Karachi, 75270, Pakistan
| | - Atia-tul-Wahab
- Dr. Panjwani Center for Molecular Medicine and Drug Research, International Center of Chemical and Biological Sciences, University of Karachi, Karachi, 75270, Pakistan
| | - Humaira Zafar
- Dr. Panjwani Center for Molecular Medicine and Drug Research, International Center of Chemical and Biological Sciences, University of Karachi, Karachi, 75270, Pakistan
| | - Muhammad Awais
- Dr. Panjwani Center for Molecular Medicine and Drug Research, International Center of Chemical and Biological Sciences, University of Karachi, Karachi, 75270, Pakistan
| | | | - M. Iqbal Choudhary
- Dr. Panjwani Center for Molecular Medicine and Drug Research, International Center of Chemical and Biological Sciences, University of Karachi, Karachi, 75270, Pakistan
- H. E. J. Research Institute of Chemistry, International Center for Chemical and Biological Sciences, University of Karachi, Karachi, 75270, Pakistan
- Department of Biochemistry, Faculty of Sciences, King Abdulaziz University, Jeddah, 22252, Saudi Arabia
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20
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Zhang CH, Yan YJ, Luo Q. The molecular mechanisms and potential drug targets of ferroptosis in myocardial ischemia-reperfusion injury. Life Sci 2024; 340:122439. [PMID: 38278348 DOI: 10.1016/j.lfs.2024.122439] [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: 11/23/2023] [Revised: 01/07/2024] [Accepted: 01/14/2024] [Indexed: 01/28/2024]
Abstract
Myocardial ischemia-reperfusion injury (MIRI), caused by the initial interruption and subsequent restoration of coronary artery blood, results in further damage to cardiac function, affecting the prognosis of patients with acute myocardial infarction. Ferroptosis is an iron-dependent, superoxide-driven, non-apoptotic form of regulated cell death that is involved in the pathogenesis of MIRI. Ferroptosis is characterized by the accumulation of lipid peroxides (LOOH) and redox disequilibrium. Free iron ions can induce lipid oxidative stress as a substrate of the Fenton reaction and lipoxygenase (LOX) and participate in the inactivation of a variety of lipid antioxidants including CoQ10 and GPX4, destroying the redox balance and causing cell death. The metabolism of amino acid, iron, and lipids, including associated pathways, is considered as a specific hallmark of ferroptosis. This review systematically summarizes the latest research progress on the mechanisms of ferroptosis and discusses and analyzes the therapeutic approaches targeting ferroptosis to alleviate MIRI.
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Affiliation(s)
- Chen-Hua Zhang
- Queen Mary School, Jiangxi Medical College, Nanchang University, Nanchang 330006, China
| | - Yu-Jie Yan
- School of Stomatology, Jiangxi Medical College, Nanchang University, Nanchang 330006, China
| | - Qi Luo
- School of Basic Medical Science, Jiangxi Medical College, Nanchang University, Nanchang 330006, China.
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21
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Yang R, Ai Y, Bai T, Lu XX, He G. Williams-Beuren syndrome in pediatric T-cell acute lymphoblastic leukemia: A rare case report and review of literature. Medicine (Baltimore) 2024; 103:e36976. [PMID: 38363891 PMCID: PMC10869033 DOI: 10.1097/md.0000000000036976] [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: 10/11/2023] [Accepted: 12/22/2023] [Indexed: 02/18/2024] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Williams-Beuren syndrome (WBS) is a rare genetic disorder caused by hemizygous microdeletion of contiguous genes on chromosome 7q11.23. Although the phenotype features extensive heterogeneity in severity and performance, WBS is not considered to be a predisposing factor for cancer development. Currently, hematologic cancers, mainly Burkitt lymphoma, are rarely reported in patients with WBS. Here in, we report a unique case of T-cell acute lymphoblastic leukemia in a male child with WBS. METHODS This retrospective study analyzed the clinical data of this case receiving chemotherapy were analyzed. This is a retrospective study. RESULTS The patient, who exhibited a typical WBS phenotype and presented with hemorrhagic spots. Chromosomal genome-wide chip analysis (CMA) revealed abnormalities on chromosomes 7 and 9. The fusion gene STIL-TAL1 and mutations in BCL11B, NOTCH1, and USP7 have also been found and all been associated with the occurrence of T-cell leukemia. The patient responded well to the chemotherapy. CONCLUSION To the best of our knowledge, this is the first reported case of WBS in T-cell acute lymphoblastic leukemia. We want to emphasize that the occurrence of leukemia in this patient might be related to the loss of 7q11.23 and microdeletion of 9p21.3 (including 3 TSGs), but the relationship between WBS and malignancy remains unclear. Further studies are required to clarify the relationship between WBS and malignancy.
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Affiliation(s)
- Rong Yang
- Key Laboratory of Birth Defects and Related Diseases of Women and Children, Ministry of Education, West China Second University Hospital, Sichuan University, Chengdu, Sichuan, P.R. China
- Department of Pediatrics, West China Second University Hospital, Sichuan University, Chengdu, Sichuan, P.R. China
| | - Yuan Ai
- Key Laboratory of Birth Defects and Related Diseases of Women and Children, Ministry of Education, West China Second University Hospital, Sichuan University, Chengdu, Sichuan, P.R. China
- Department of Pediatrics, West China Second University Hospital, Sichuan University, Chengdu, Sichuan, P.R. China
| | - Ting Bai
- Key Laboratory of Birth Defects and Related Diseases of Women and Children, Ministry of Education, West China Second University Hospital, Sichuan University, Chengdu, Sichuan, P.R. China
- Department of Obstetrics & Gynecology, West China Second University Hospital, Sichuan University, Chengdu, Sichuan, P.R. China
| | - Xiao-Xi Lu
- Key Laboratory of Birth Defects and Related Diseases of Women and Children, Ministry of Education, West China Second University Hospital, Sichuan University, Chengdu, Sichuan, P.R. China
- Department of Pediatrics, West China Second University Hospital, Sichuan University, Chengdu, Sichuan, P.R. China
| | - Guoqian He
- Key Laboratory of Birth Defects and Related Diseases of Women and Children, Ministry of Education, West China Second University Hospital, Sichuan University, Chengdu, Sichuan, P.R. China
- Department of Pediatrics, West China Second University Hospital, Sichuan University, Chengdu, Sichuan, P.R. China
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22
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Li H, Sun Y, Yin H, Zhang Y, Yu J, Hou N, Wang P, Liang H, Xie A, Wang X, Dong J, Xu X. Virtual screening of natural products targeting ubiquitin-specific protease 7. J Biomol Struct Dyn 2024:1-8. [PMID: 38361286 DOI: 10.1080/07391102.2024.2316779] [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: 08/02/2023] [Accepted: 10/27/2023] [Indexed: 02/17/2024]
Abstract
Ubiquitin-specific protease 7 (USP7) is a promising prognostic and druggable target for cancer therapy. Inhibition of USP7 can activate the MDM2-P53 signaling pathway, thereby promoting cancer cell apoptosis. This study based on watvina molecular docking of virtual screening method and biological evaluation found the new USP7 inhibitors targeting catalytic active site. Three hits were screened from 3760 natural products and validated as USP7 inhibitors by enzymatic and kinetic assays. The IC50 values of scutellarein (Scu), semethylzeylastera (DML) and salvianolic acid C (SAC) were 3.017, 6.865 and 8.495 μM, respectively. Further, we reported that the hits could downregulate MDM2 and activate p53 signal pathway in HCT116 cells. Molecular dynamics simulation was used to investigate the binding mechanism of USP7 to Scu, the compound with the best performance, which formed stable contact with Val296, Gln297, Phe409, Tyr465 and Tyr514. These interactions are essential for maintaining the biological activity of Scu. Three natural products are suitable as lead compounds for the development of novel USP7 inhibitors, especially anti-colon cancer drugs.Communicated by Ramaswamy H. Sarma.
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Affiliation(s)
- Hongju Li
- College of Food Science and Engineering, Ocean University of China, Qingdao, China
| | - Yujie Sun
- School of Medicine and Pharmacy, Ocean University of China, Qingdao, Shandong, China
| | - Hua Yin
- State Key Laboratory of Biological Fermentation Engineering of Beer, Tsingtao Brewery Co., Ltd, Qingdao, China
| | - Yuzhu Zhang
- School of Medicine and Pharmacy, Ocean University of China, Qingdao, Shandong, China
| | - Junhong Yu
- State Key Laboratory of Biological Fermentation Engineering of Beer, Tsingtao Brewery Co., Ltd, Qingdao, China
| | - Ning Hou
- School of Medicine and Pharmacy, Ocean University of China, Qingdao, Shandong, China
| | - Peng Wang
- College of Food Science and Engineering, Ocean University of China, Qingdao, China
| | - Huicong Liang
- School of Medicine and Pharmacy, Ocean University of China, Qingdao, Shandong, China
| | - Aowei Xie
- College of Food Science and Engineering, Ocean University of China, Qingdao, China
| | - Xiaohong Wang
- Shandong Foreign Trade Vocational College, Qingdao, Shandong, China
| | - Jianjun Dong
- State Key Laboratory of Biological Fermentation Engineering of Beer, Tsingtao Brewery Co., Ltd, Qingdao, China
| | - Ximing Xu
- School of Medicine and Pharmacy, Ocean University of China, Qingdao, Shandong, China
- Qingdao Marine Science and Technology Center, Qingdao, China
- Marine Biomedical Research Institute of Qingdao, Qingdao, Shandong, China
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23
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Zheng LL, Wang LT, Pang YW, Sun LP, Shi L. Recent advances in the development of deubiquitinases inhibitors as antitumor agents. Eur J Med Chem 2024; 266:116161. [PMID: 38262120 DOI: 10.1016/j.ejmech.2024.116161] [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: 01/12/2024] [Accepted: 01/16/2024] [Indexed: 01/25/2024]
Abstract
Ubiquitination is a type of post-translational modification that covalently links ubiquitin to a target protein, which plays a critical role in modulating protein activity, stability, and localization. In contrast, this process is reversed by deubiquitinases (DUBs), which remove ubiquitin from ubiquitinated substrates. Dysregulation of DUBs is associated with several human diseases, such as cancer, inflammation, neurodegenerative disorders, and autoimmune diseases. Thus, DUBs have become promising targets for drug development. Although the physiological and pathological effects of DUBs are increasingly well understood, the clinical drug discovery of selective DUB inhibitors has been challenging. Herein, we summarize the structures and functions of main classes of DUBs and discuss the recent progress in developing selective small-molecule DUB inhibitors as antitumor agents.
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Affiliation(s)
- Li-Li Zheng
- Department of Medicinal Chemistry, School of Pharmacy, China Pharmaceutical University, Nanjing, 211198, China
| | - Li-Ting Wang
- Department of Medicinal Chemistry, School of Pharmacy, China Pharmaceutical University, Nanjing, 211198, China
| | - Ye-Wei Pang
- Department of Medicinal Chemistry, School of Pharmacy, China Pharmaceutical University, Nanjing, 211198, China
| | - Li-Ping Sun
- Department of Medicinal Chemistry, School of Pharmacy, China Pharmaceutical University, Nanjing, 211198, China.
| | - Lei Shi
- Department of Medicinal Chemistry, School of Pharmacy, China Pharmaceutical University, Nanjing, 211198, China.
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24
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Xue Y, Xue C, Song W. Emerging roles of deubiquitinating enzymes in actin cytoskeleton and tumor metastasis. Cell Oncol (Dordr) 2024:10.1007/s13402-024-00923-z. [PMID: 38324230 DOI: 10.1007/s13402-024-00923-z] [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] [Accepted: 01/25/2024] [Indexed: 02/08/2024] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Metastasis accounts for the majority of cancer-related deaths. Actin dynamics and actin-based cell migration and invasion are important factors in cancer metastasis. Metastasis is characterized by actin polymerization and depolymerization, which are precisely regulated by molecular changes involving a plethora of actin regulators, including actin-binding proteins (ABPs) and signalling pathways, that enable cancer cell dissemination from the primary tumour. Research on deubiquitinating enzymes (DUBs) has revealed their vital roles in actin dynamics and actin-based migration and invasion during cancer metastasis. CONCLUSION Here, we review how DUBs drive tumour metastasis by participating in actin rearrangement and actin-based migration and invasion. We summarize the well-characterized and essential actin cytoskeleton signalling molecules related to DUBs, including Rho GTPases, Src kinases, and ABPs such as cofilin and cortactin. Other DUBs that modulate actin-based migration signalling pathways are also discussed. Finally, we discuss and address therapeutic opportunities and ongoing challenges related to DUBs with respect to actin dynamics.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ying Xue
- Department of Oncology, Shandong Provincial Hospital Affiliated to Shandong First Medical University, Jinan, Shandong, 250021, PR China.
| | - Cong Xue
- School of Stomatology, Shandong First Medical University and Shandong Academy of Medical Sciences, Jinan, Shandong, 250117, PR China
| | - Wei Song
- Department of Oncology, Shandong Provincial Hospital Affiliated to Shandong First Medical University, Jinan, Shandong, 250021, PR China.
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25
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Morihiro K, Morita S, Harada N, Baba M, Yum J, Naito M, Miyata K, Nagae G, Okamoto A. RNA Oncological Therapeutics: Intracellular Hairpin RNA Assembly Enables MicroRNA-Triggered Anticancer Functionality. J Am Chem Soc 2024; 146:1346-1355. [PMID: 38170469 DOI: 10.1021/jacs.3c09524] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/05/2024]
Abstract
RNA therapeutics are of global interest because of their versatility in targeting a variety of intracellular and extracellular biomolecules. In that context, long double-stranded RNA (dsRNA) has been studied as an antitumor agent that activates the immune response. However, its performance is constrained by poor cancer selectivity and cell-penetration ability. Here, we designed and synthesized an oncolytic RNA hairpin pair (oHP) that was selectively cytotoxic toward cancer cells expressing abundant oncogenic microRNA-21 (miR-21). Although the structure of each hairpin RNA was thermodynamically metastable, catalytic miR-21 input triggered it to open to generate a long nicked dsRNA. We demonstrated that oHP functioned as a cytotoxic amplifier of information in the presence of miR-21 in various cancer cells and tumor-bearing mice. This work represents the first example of the use of short RNA molecules as build-up-type anticancer agents that are triggered by an oncogenic miRNA.
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Affiliation(s)
- Kunihiko Morihiro
- Department of Chemistry and Biotechnology, Graduate School of Engineering, The University of Tokyo, Bunkyo-ku, Tokyo 113-8656, Japan
| | - Shunto Morita
- Department of Chemistry and Biotechnology, Graduate School of Engineering, The University of Tokyo, Bunkyo-ku, Tokyo 113-8656, Japan
| | - Naoki Harada
- Department of Chemistry and Biotechnology, Graduate School of Engineering, The University of Tokyo, Bunkyo-ku, Tokyo 113-8656, Japan
| | - Manami Baba
- Department of Chemistry and Biotechnology, Graduate School of Engineering, The University of Tokyo, Bunkyo-ku, Tokyo 113-8656, Japan
| | - Jongmin Yum
- Department of Materials Engineering, Graduate School of Engineering, The University of Tokyo, Bunkyo-ku, Tokyo 113-8656, Japan
| | - Mitsuru Naito
- Department of Materials Engineering, Graduate School of Engineering, The University of Tokyo, Bunkyo-ku, Tokyo 113-8656, Japan
| | - Kanjiro Miyata
- Department of Materials Engineering, Graduate School of Engineering, The University of Tokyo, Bunkyo-ku, Tokyo 113-8656, Japan
- Department of Bioengineering, Graduate School of Engineering, The University of Tokyo, Bunkyo-ku, Tokyo 113-8656, Japan
| | - Genta Nagae
- Research Center for Advanced Science and Technology (RCAST), The University of Tokyo, Meguro-ku, Tokyo 153-8904, Japan
| | - Akimitsu Okamoto
- Department of Chemistry and Biotechnology, Graduate School of Engineering, The University of Tokyo, Bunkyo-ku, Tokyo 113-8656, Japan
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26
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Tey PY, Dufner A, Knobeloch KP, Pruneda JN, Clague MJ, Urbé S. Rapid turnover of CTLA4 is associated with a complex architecture of reversible ubiquitylation. BIORXIV : THE PREPRINT SERVER FOR BIOLOGY 2024:2023.12.31.573735. [PMID: 38260548 PMCID: PMC10802369 DOI: 10.1101/2023.12.31.573735] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/24/2024]
Abstract
The immune checkpoint regulator CTLA4 is an unusually short-lived membrane protein. Here we show that its lysosomal degradation is dependent on ubiquitylation at Lysine residues 203 and 213. Inhibition of the v-ATPase partially restores CTLA4 levels following cycloheximide treatment, but also reveals a fraction that is secreted in exosomes. The endosomal deubiquitylase, USP8, interacts with CTLA4 and its loss enhances CTLA4 ubiquitylation in cancer cells, mouse CD4+ T cells and in cancer cell-derived exosomes. Depletion of the USP8 adapter protein, HD-PTP, but not ESCRT-0 recapitulates this cellular phenotype, but shows distinct properties vis-à-vis exosome incorporation. Re-expression of wild-type USP8, but neither a catalytically inactive, nor a localization-compromised ΔMIT domain mutant can rescue delayed degradation of CTLA4, or counteract its accumulation in clustered endosomes. UbiCRest analysis of CTLA4-associated ubiquitin chain linkages identifies a complex mixture of conventional Lys63- and more unusual Lys27- and Lys29-linked polyubiquitin chains that may underly the rapidity of protein turnover.
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Affiliation(s)
- Pei Yee Tey
- Biochemistry, Cell and Systems Biology, Institute of Systems, Molecular and Integrative Biology, University of Liverpool, Crown St., Liverpool, L69 3BX, UK
| | - Almut Dufner
- Institute of Neuropathology, Medical Faculty, University of Freiburg, 79106 Freiburg, Germany; Signalling Research Centres BIOSS and CIBSS, University of Freiburg, 79104 Freiburg, Germany
| | - Klaus-Peter Knobeloch
- Institute of Neuropathology, Medical Faculty, University of Freiburg, 79106 Freiburg, Germany; Signalling Research Centres BIOSS and CIBSS, University of Freiburg, 79104 Freiburg, Germany
| | - Jonathan N. Pruneda
- Department of Molecular Microbiology & Immunology, Oregon Health & Science University, Portland, OR 97239, USA
| | - Michael J. Clague
- Biochemistry, Cell and Systems Biology, Institute of Systems, Molecular and Integrative Biology, University of Liverpool, Crown St., Liverpool, L69 3BX, UK
| | - Sylvie Urbé
- Biochemistry, Cell and Systems Biology, Institute of Systems, Molecular and Integrative Biology, University of Liverpool, Crown St., Liverpool, L69 3BX, UK
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27
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Liu X, Lu R, Yang Q, He J, Huang C, Cao Y, Zhou Z, Huang J, Li L, Chen R, Wang Y, Huang J, Xie R, Zhao X, Yu J. USP7 reduces the level of nuclear DICER, impairing DNA damage response and promoting cancer progression. Mol Oncol 2024; 18:170-189. [PMID: 37867415 PMCID: PMC10766207 DOI: 10.1002/1878-0261.13543] [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: 06/01/2023] [Revised: 09/30/2023] [Accepted: 10/12/2023] [Indexed: 10/24/2023] Open
Abstract
Endoribonuclease DICER is an RNase III enzyme that mainly processes microRNAs in the cytoplasm but also participates in nuclear functions such as chromatin remodelling, epigenetic modification and DNA damage repair. The expression of nuclear DICER is low in most human cancers, suggesting a tight regulation mechanism that is not well understood. Here, we found that ubiquitin carboxyl-terminal hydrolase 7 (USP7), a deubiquitinase, bounded to DICER and reduced its nuclear protein level by promoting its ubiquitination and degradation through MDM2, a newly identified E3 ubiquitin-protein ligase for DICER. This USP7-MDM2-DICER axis impaired histone γ-H2AX signalling and the recruitment of DNA damage response (DDR) factors, possibly by influencing the processing of small DDR noncoding RNAs. We also showed that this negative regulation of DICER by USP7 via MDM2 was relevant to human tumours using cellular and clinical data. Our findings revealed a new way to understand the role of DICER in malignant tumour development and may offer new insights into the diagnosis, treatment and prognosis of cancers.
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Affiliation(s)
- Xiaojia Liu
- Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Cell Biology, Shanghai Key Laboratory of Tumor Microenvironment and InflammationShanghai Jiao Tong University School of MedicineChina
| | - Runhui Lu
- Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Cell Biology, Shanghai Key Laboratory of Tumor Microenvironment and InflammationShanghai Jiao Tong University School of MedicineChina
| | - Qianqian Yang
- Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Cell Biology, Shanghai Key Laboratory of Tumor Microenvironment and InflammationShanghai Jiao Tong University School of MedicineChina
| | - Jianfeng He
- Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Cell Biology, Shanghai Key Laboratory of Tumor Microenvironment and InflammationShanghai Jiao Tong University School of MedicineChina
| | - Caihu Huang
- Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Cell Biology, Shanghai Key Laboratory of Tumor Microenvironment and InflammationShanghai Jiao Tong University School of MedicineChina
| | - Yingting Cao
- Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Cell Biology, Shanghai Key Laboratory of Tumor Microenvironment and InflammationShanghai Jiao Tong University School of MedicineChina
| | - Zihan Zhou
- Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Cell Biology, Shanghai Key Laboratory of Tumor Microenvironment and InflammationShanghai Jiao Tong University School of MedicineChina
| | - Jiayi Huang
- Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Cell Biology, Shanghai Key Laboratory of Tumor Microenvironment and InflammationShanghai Jiao Tong University School of MedicineChina
| | - Lian Li
- Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Cell Biology, Shanghai Key Laboratory of Tumor Microenvironment and InflammationShanghai Jiao Tong University School of MedicineChina
| | - Ran Chen
- Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Cell Biology, Shanghai Key Laboratory of Tumor Microenvironment and InflammationShanghai Jiao Tong University School of MedicineChina
| | - Yanli Wang
- Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Cell Biology, Shanghai Key Laboratory of Tumor Microenvironment and InflammationShanghai Jiao Tong University School of MedicineChina
| | - Jian Huang
- Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Cell Biology, Shanghai Key Laboratory of Tumor Microenvironment and InflammationShanghai Jiao Tong University School of MedicineChina
| | - Ruiyu Xie
- Department of Biomedical Sciences, Faculty of Health SciencesUniversity of MacauChina
| | - Xian Zhao
- Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Cell Biology, Shanghai Key Laboratory of Tumor Microenvironment and InflammationShanghai Jiao Tong University School of MedicineChina
| | - Jianxiu Yu
- Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Cell Biology, Shanghai Key Laboratory of Tumor Microenvironment and InflammationShanghai Jiao Tong University School of MedicineChina
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28
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Tan H, Li C, Lai T, Luo L. In Silico Analysis of USP7 Inhibitors Based on Building QSAR Models and Fragment Design for Screening Marine Compound Libraries. Mar Drugs 2023; 22:1. [PMID: 38276639 PMCID: PMC10817464 DOI: 10.3390/md22010001] [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: 10/21/2023] [Revised: 12/15/2023] [Accepted: 12/15/2023] [Indexed: 01/27/2024] Open
Abstract
USP7 is highly expressed in a variety of tumors and is thought to play a major role in cancer development. However, there are no drugs available to target USP7, so there is a need to develop new USP7 inhibitors. In this study, AutoQSAR, multiple linear regression, and Naive Bayesian models were constructed using 543 compounds and used to analyze marine compounds. After selecting 240 small molecules for molecular docking with Maestro, MOE, and GOLD, better small molecules than the positive compound P217564 were screened. The molecular structure of "1, 2-dibromobenzene" was optimized to improve the binding effect of the protein, and 10 optimized compounds in ADMET performed well during the screening process. To study the dynamic combination of protein-ligand effect consistency with static molecular docking, 100ns molecular dynamics simulations of candidate compound 1008-1, reference compound P217564, and negative-positive GNE2917 were conducted. The results of molecular docking and molecular dynamics simulation analysis showed that compound 1008-1 maintained a stable conformation with the target protein. Thus, the comprehensive analysis suggests that compound 1008-1 could provide new possibilities for USP7 covalent inhibitor candidates.
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Affiliation(s)
- Huiting Tan
- The First Clinical College, Guangdong Medical University, Zhanjiang 524023, China; (H.T.); (C.L.); (T.L.)
| | - Chenying Li
- The First Clinical College, Guangdong Medical University, Zhanjiang 524023, China; (H.T.); (C.L.); (T.L.)
| | - Tianli Lai
- The First Clinical College, Guangdong Medical University, Zhanjiang 524023, China; (H.T.); (C.L.); (T.L.)
| | - Lianxiang Luo
- The Marine Biomedical Research Institute, Guangdong Medical University, Zhanjiang 524023, China
- The Marine Biomedical Research Institute of Guangdong Zhanjiang, Zhanjiang 524023, China
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29
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Kumagai J, Kiuchi M, Kokubo K, Yagyu H, Nemoto M, Tsuji K, Nagahata K, Sasaki A, Hishiya T, Onoue M, Shinmi R, Sonobe Y, Iinuma T, Yonekura S, Shinga J, Hanazawa T, Koseki H, Nakayama T, Yokote K, Hirahara K. The USP7-STAT3-granzyme-Par-1 axis regulates allergic inflammation by promoting differentiation of IL-5-producing Th2 cells. Proc Natl Acad Sci U S A 2023; 120:e2302903120. [PMID: 38015852 PMCID: PMC10710068 DOI: 10.1073/pnas.2302903120] [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: 02/20/2023] [Accepted: 09/11/2023] [Indexed: 11/30/2023] Open
Abstract
Uncontrolled type 2 immunity by type 2 helper T (Th2) cells causes intractable allergic diseases; however, whether the interaction of CD4+ T cells shapes the pathophysiology of allergic diseases remains unclear. We identified a subset of Th2 cells that produced the serine proteases granzyme A and B early in differentiation. Granzymes cleave protease-activated receptor (Par)-1 and induce phosphorylation of p38 mitogen-activated protein kinase (MAPK), resulting in the enhanced production of IL-5 and IL-13 in both mouse and human Th2 cells. Ubiquitin-specific protease 7 (USP7) regulates IL-4-induced phosphorylation of STAT3, resulting in granzyme production during Th2 cell differentiation. Genetic deletion of Usp7 or Gzma and pharmacological blockade of granzyme B ameliorated allergic airway inflammation. Furthermore, PAR-1+ and granzyme+ Th2 cells were colocalized in nasal polyps from patients with eosinophilic chronic rhinosinusitis. Thus, the USP7-STAT3-granzymes-Par-1 pathway is a potential therapeutic target for intractable allergic diseases.
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Grants
- JP19H05650 Ministry of Education, Culture, Sports, Science and Technology (MEXT)
- 20H03685 Ministry of Education, Culture, Sports, Science and Technology (MEXT)
- 17K08876 Ministry of Education, Culture, Sports, Science and Technology (MEXT)
- 18K07164 Ministry of Education, Culture, Sports, Science and Technology (MEXT)
- 19K16683 Ministry of Education, Culture, Sports, Science and Technology (MEXT)
- 21H05121 Ministry of Education, Culture, Sports, Science and Technology (MEXT)
- 19K23858 Ministry of Education, Culture, Sports, Science and Technology (MEXT)
- 22K15485 Ministry of Education, Culture, Sports, Science and Technology (MEXT)
- JP21H05120 Ministry of Education, Culture, Sports, Science and Technology (MEXT)
- JP20ek0410060 Japan Agency for Medical Research and Development (AMED)
- JP22ek0410092 Japan Agency for Medical Research and Development (AMED)
- JP20gm1210003 Japan Agency for Medical Research and Development (AMED)
- JPMJFR200R JST FORREST program
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Affiliation(s)
- Jin Kumagai
- Department of Immunology, Graduate School of Medicine, Chiba University, Chiba260-8670, Japan
- Department of Endocrinology, Hematology and Gerontology, Graduate School of Medicine, Chiba University, Chiba260-8670, Japan
| | - Masahiro Kiuchi
- Department of Immunology, Graduate School of Medicine, Chiba University, Chiba260-8670, Japan
| | - Kota Kokubo
- Department of Immunology, Graduate School of Medicine, Chiba University, Chiba260-8670, Japan
| | - Hiroyuki Yagyu
- Department of Immunology, Graduate School of Medicine, Chiba University, Chiba260-8670, Japan
| | - Masahiro Nemoto
- Department of Immunology, Graduate School of Medicine, Chiba University, Chiba260-8670, Japan
| | - Kaori Tsuji
- Department of Immunology, Graduate School of Medicine, Chiba University, Chiba260-8670, Japan
| | - Ken Nagahata
- Department of Immunology, Graduate School of Medicine, Chiba University, Chiba260-8670, Japan
- Department of Rheumatology, Sapporo Medical University, Sapporo060-8556, Japan
| | - Atsushi Sasaki
- Department of Immunology, Graduate School of Medicine, Chiba University, Chiba260-8670, Japan
| | - Takahisa Hishiya
- Department of Immunology, Graduate School of Medicine, Chiba University, Chiba260-8670, Japan
| | - Miki Onoue
- Department of Immunology, Graduate School of Medicine, Chiba University, Chiba260-8670, Japan
| | - Rie Shinmi
- Department of Immunology, Graduate School of Medicine, Chiba University, Chiba260-8670, Japan
| | - Yuri Sonobe
- Department of Immunology, Graduate School of Medicine, Chiba University, Chiba260-8670, Japan
| | - Tomohisa Iinuma
- Department of Otorhinolaryngology/Head and Neck Surgery, Graduate School of Medicine, Chiba University, Chiba260-8670, Japan
| | - Syuji Yonekura
- Department of Otorhinolaryngology/Head and Neck Surgery, Graduate School of Medicine, Chiba University, Chiba260-8670, Japan
| | - Jun Shinga
- Laboratory for Immunotherapy, RIKEN Center for Integrative Medical Sciences, Yokohama, Kanagawa230-0045, Japan
| | - Toyoyuki Hanazawa
- Department of Otorhinolaryngology/Head and Neck Surgery, Graduate School of Medicine, Chiba University, Chiba260-8670, Japan
| | - Haruhiko Koseki
- Department of Cellular and Molecular Medicine, Graduate School of Medicine, Chiba University, Chiba260-8670, Japan
| | - Toshinori Nakayama
- Department of Immunology, Graduate School of Medicine, Chiba University, Chiba260-8670, Japan
| | - Koutaro Yokote
- Department of Endocrinology, Hematology and Gerontology, Graduate School of Medicine, Chiba University, Chiba260-8670, Japan
| | - Kiyoshi Hirahara
- Department of Immunology, Graduate School of Medicine, Chiba University, Chiba260-8670, Japan
- Chiba University Synergy Institute for Futuristic Mucosal Vaccine Research and Development, Chiba University, Chiba260-8670, Japan
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30
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Abstract
Ubiquitination is an essential regulator of most, if not all, signalling pathways, and defects in cellular signalling are central to cancer initiation, progression and, eventually, metastasis. The attachment of ubiquitin signals by E3 ubiquitin ligases is directly opposed by the action of approximately 100 deubiquitinating enzymes (DUBs) in humans. Together, DUBs and E3 ligases coordinate ubiquitin signalling by providing selectivity for different substrates and/or ubiquitin signals. The balance between ubiquitination and deubiquitination is exquisitely controlled to ensure properly coordinated proteostasis and response to cellular stimuli and stressors. Not surprisingly, then, DUBs have been associated with all hallmarks of cancer. These relationships are often complex and multifaceted, highlighted by the implication of multiple DUBs in certain hallmarks and by the impact of individual DUBs on multiple cancer-associated pathways, sometimes with contrasting cancer-promoting and cancer-inhibiting activities, depending on context and tumour type. Although it is still understudied, the ever-growing knowledge of DUB function in cancer physiology will eventually identify DUBs that warrant specific inhibition or activation, both of which are now feasible. An integrated appreciation of the physiological consequences of DUB modulation in relevant cancer models will eventually lead to the identification of patient populations that will most likely benefit from DUB-targeted therapies.
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Affiliation(s)
- Grant Dewson
- Ubiquitin Signalling Division, The Walter and Eliza Hall Institute of Medical Research, Melbourne, Victoria, Australia.
- Department of Medical Biology, University of Melbourne, Melbourne, Victoria, Australia.
| | - Pieter J A Eichhorn
- Curtin Medical School, Curtin University, Perth, Western Australia, Australia.
- Cancer Science Institute of Singapore, National University of Singapore, Singapore, Singapore.
| | - David Komander
- Ubiquitin Signalling Division, The Walter and Eliza Hall Institute of Medical Research, Melbourne, Victoria, Australia.
- Department of Medical Biology, University of Melbourne, Melbourne, Victoria, Australia.
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31
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Ren J, Yu P, Liu S, Li R, Niu X, Chen Y, Zhang Z, Zhou F, Zhang L. Deubiquitylating Enzymes in Cancer and Immunity. ADVANCED SCIENCE (WEINHEIM, BADEN-WURTTEMBERG, GERMANY) 2023; 10:e2303807. [PMID: 37888853 PMCID: PMC10754134 DOI: 10.1002/advs.202303807] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/11/2023] [Revised: 08/30/2023] [Indexed: 10/28/2023]
Abstract
Deubiquitylating enzymes (DUBs) maintain relative homeostasis of the cellular ubiquitome by removing the post-translational modification ubiquitin moiety from substrates. Numerous DUBs have been demonstrated specificity for cleaving a certain type of ubiquitin linkage or positions within ubiquitin chains. Moreover, several DUBs perform functions through specific protein-protein interactions in a catalytically independent manner, which further expands the versatility and complexity of DUBs' functions. Dysregulation of DUBs disrupts the dynamic equilibrium of ubiquitome and causes various diseases, especially cancer and immune disorders. This review summarizes the Janus-faced roles of DUBs in cancer including proteasomal degradation, DNA repair, apoptosis, and tumor metastasis, as well as in immunity involving innate immune receptor signaling and inflammatory and autoimmune disorders. The prospects and challenges for the clinical development of DUB inhibitors are further discussed. The review provides a comprehensive understanding of the multi-faced roles of DUBs in cancer and immunity.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jiang Ren
- The Eighth Affiliated HospitalSun Yat‐sen UniversityShenzhen518033P. R. China
| | - Peng Yu
- Zhongshan Institute for Drug DiscoveryShanghai Institute of Materia MedicaChinese Academy of SciencesZhongshanGuangdongP. R. China
| | - Sijia Liu
- International Biomed‐X Research CenterSecond Affiliated Hospital of Zhejiang University School of MedicineZhejiang UniversityHangzhouP. R. China
- Key Laboratory of Precision Diagnosis and Treatment for Hepatobiliary and Pancreatic Tumor of Zhejiang ProvinceHangzhou310058China
| | - Ran Li
- The Eighth Affiliated HospitalSun Yat‐sen UniversityShenzhen518033P. R. China
| | - Xin Niu
- MOE Laboratory of Biosystems Homeostasis & Protection and Innovation Center for Cell Signaling NetworkLife Sciences InstituteZhejiang UniversityHangzhou310058P. R. China
| | - Yan Chen
- The Eighth Affiliated HospitalSun Yat‐sen UniversityShenzhen518033P. R. China
| | - Zhenyu Zhang
- Department of NeurosurgeryThe First Affiliated Hospital of Zhengzhou UniversityZhengzhouHenan450003P. R. China
| | - Fangfang Zhou
- Institutes of Biology and Medical ScienceSoochow UniversitySuzhou215123P. R. China
| | - Long Zhang
- The Eighth Affiliated HospitalSun Yat‐sen UniversityShenzhen518033P. R. China
- International Biomed‐X Research CenterSecond Affiliated Hospital of Zhejiang University School of MedicineZhejiang UniversityHangzhouP. R. China
- MOE Laboratory of Biosystems Homeostasis & Protection and Innovation Center for Cell Signaling NetworkLife Sciences InstituteZhejiang UniversityHangzhou310058P. R. China
- Cancer CenterZhejiang UniversityHangzhouZhejiang310058P. R. China
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32
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Moghadasi SA, Moraes SN, Harris RS. Cellular Assays for Dynamic Quantification of Deubiquitinase Activity and Inhibition. J Mol Biol 2023; 435:168316. [PMID: 37858708 DOI: 10.1016/j.jmb.2023.168316] [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: 08/03/2023] [Revised: 10/12/2023] [Accepted: 10/12/2023] [Indexed: 10/21/2023]
Abstract
Deubiquitinases (DUBs) are proteolytic enzymes that catalyze the removal of ubiquitin from protein substrates. The critical role of DUBs in regulating protein ubiquitination makes them attractive drug targets in oncology, neurodegenerative disease, and antiviral development. Biochemical assays for quantifying DUB activity have enabled characterization of substrate preferences and discovery of small molecule inhibitors. However, assessing the efficacy of these inhibitors in cellular contexts to support clinical drug development has been limited by a lack of tractable cell-based assays. To address this gap, we developed a two-color flow cytometry-based assay that allows for sensitive quantification of DUB activity and inhibition in living cells. The utility of this system was demonstrated by quantifying the potency of GRL0617 against the viral DUB SARS-CoV-2 PLpro, identifying potential GRL0617 resistance mutations, and performing structure-function analysis of the vOTU domain from the recently emerged Yezo virus. In addition, the system was optimized for cellular DUBs by modifying a GFP-targeting nanobody to recruit USP7 and USP28 to benchmark a panel of reported inhibitors and assess inhibition kinetics. Together, these results demonstrate the utility of these assays for studying DUB biology in a cellular context with potential to aid in inhibitor discovery and development.
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Affiliation(s)
- Seyed Arad Moghadasi
- Department of Biochemistry, Molecular Biology, and Biophysics, University of Minnesota - Twin Cities, Minneapolis, MN 55455, USA
| | - Sofia N Moraes
- Department of Biochemistry, Molecular Biology, and Biophysics, University of Minnesota - Twin Cities, Minneapolis, MN 55455, USA
| | - Reuben S Harris
- Department of Biochemistry and Structural Biology, University of Texas Health San Antonio, San Antonio, TX 78229, USA; Howard Hughes Medical Institute, University of Texas Health San Antonio, San Antonio, TX 78229, USA.
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Zhang K, Sun T, Li W, Guo Y, Li A, Hsieh M, Wang J, Wu J, Arvanitis L, Raz DJ. Inhibition of USP7 upregulates USP22 and activates its downstream cancer-related signaling pathways in human cancer cells. Cell Commun Signal 2023; 21:319. [PMID: 37946202 PMCID: PMC10634000 DOI: 10.1186/s12964-023-01320-z] [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: 08/14/2023] [Accepted: 09/14/2023] [Indexed: 11/12/2023] Open
Abstract
Deubiquitinases (DUBs) play important roles in various human cancers and targeting DUBs is considered as a novel anticancer therapeutic strategy. Overexpression of ubiquitin specific protease 7 and 22 (USP7 and USP22) are associated with malignancy, therapy resistance, and poor prognosis in many cancers. Although both DUBs are involved in the regulation of similar genes and signaling pathways, such as histone H2B monoubiquitination (H2Bub1), c-Myc, FOXP3, and p53, the interdependence of USP22 and USP7 expression has never been described. In the study, we found that targeting USP7 via either siRNA-mediated knockdown or pharmaceutical inhibitors dramatically upregulates USP22 in cancer cells. Mechanistically, the elevated USP22 occurs through a transcriptional pathway, possibly due to desuppression of the transcriptional activity of SP1 via promoting its degradation upon USP7 inhibition. Importantly, increased USP22 expression leads to significant activation of downstream signal pathways including H2Bub1 and c-Myc, which may potentially enhance cancer malignancy and counteract the anticancer efficacy of USP7 inhibition. Importantly, targeting USP7 further suppresses the in vitro proliferation of USP22-knockout (USP22-Ko) A549 and H1299 lung cancer cells and induces a stronger activation of p53 tumor suppressor signaling pathway. In addition, USP22-Ko cancer cells are more sensitive to a combination of cisplatin and USP7 inhibitor. USP7 inhibitor treatment further suppresses in vivo angiogenesis and tumor growth and induced more apoptosis in USP22-Ko cancer xenografts. Taken together, our findings demonstrate that USP7 inhibition can dramatically upregulate USP22 in cancer cells; and targeting USP7 and USP22 may represent a more effective approach for targeted cancer therapy, which warrants further study. Video Abstract.
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Affiliation(s)
- Keqiang Zhang
- Division of Thoracic Surgery, City of Hope National Medical Center, Duarte, CA, USA.
| | - Ting Sun
- Division of Thoracic Surgery, City of Hope National Medical Center, Duarte, CA, USA
- Faculty of Health Science, University of Macau, Macau, China
| | - Wendong Li
- Division of Thoracic Surgery, City of Hope National Medical Center, Duarte, CA, USA
| | - Yuming Guo
- Division of Comparative Medicine, City of Hope National Medical Center, Duarte, CA, USA
| | - Aimin Li
- Pathology Core of Shared Resources, City of Hope National Medical Center, Duarte, CA, USA
| | - Marcus Hsieh
- Division of Thoracic Surgery, City of Hope National Medical Center, Duarte, CA, USA
| | - Jinghan Wang
- Department of Hepatobiliary and Pancreatic Surgery, East Hospital, School of Medicine, Tongji University, Shanghai, China
| | - Jun Wu
- Division of Comparative Medicine, City of Hope National Medical Center, Duarte, CA, USA
| | - Leonidas Arvanitis
- Department of Pathology, City of Hope National Medical Center, Duarte, CA, USA
| | - Dan J Raz
- Division of Thoracic Surgery, City of Hope National Medical Center, Duarte, CA, USA.
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Hou J, Li T, Hsu JM, Zhang X, Hung MC. Gasdermins and cancers. Semin Immunol 2023; 70:101833. [PMID: 37647772 DOI: 10.1016/j.smim.2023.101833] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/31/2023] [Revised: 07/08/2023] [Accepted: 08/16/2023] [Indexed: 09/01/2023]
Abstract
The identification of gasdermin as the executor of pyroptosis has opened new avenues for the study of this process. Although pyroptosis research has mainly focused on immune cells since it was discovered three decades ago, accumulating evidence suggests that pyroptosis plays crucial roles in many biological processes. One example is the discovery of gasdermin-mediated cancer cell pyroptosis (CCP) which has become an important and frontier field in oncology. Recent studies have shown that CCP induction can heat tumor microenvironment (TME) and thereby elicit the robust anti-tumor immunity to suppress tumor growth. As a newly discovered form of tumor cell death, CCP offers promising opportunities for improving tumor treatment and developing new drugs. Nevertheless, the research on CCP is still in its infancy, and the molecular mechanisms underlying the expression, regulation and activation of gasdermins are not yet fully understood. In this review, we summarize the recent progress of gasdermin research in cancer area, and propose that the anti-tumor effect of immune cell pyroptosis (ICP) and CCP depends on their duration, intensity, and the type of cells undergoing pyroptosis within TME.
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Affiliation(s)
- Junwei Hou
- Department of Otolaryngology Head and Neck Surgery, Xiangya Hospital, Central South University, Xiangya Road 87, Changsha 410008, Hunan, China; Otolaryngology Major Disease Research Key Laboratory of Hunan Province, Xiangya Road 87, Changsha 410008, Hunan, China; Xiangya Cancer Center, Xiangya Hospital, Central South University, Xiangya Road 87, Changsha 410008, Hunan, China; Center for Molecular Oncology and Immunology, Xiangya Hospital, Central South University, Xiangya Road 87, Changsha 410008, Hunan, China; Clinical Research Center for Pharyngolaryngeal Diseases and Voice Disorders in Hunan Province, Xiangya Road 87, Changsha 410008, Hunan, China; National Clinical Research Center for Geriatric Disorders, Xiangya Hospital, Central South University, Xiangya Road 87, Changsha 410008, Hunan, China.
| | - Tiansheng Li
- Department of Otolaryngology Head and Neck Surgery, Xiangya Hospital, Central South University, Xiangya Road 87, Changsha 410008, Hunan, China; Otolaryngology Major Disease Research Key Laboratory of Hunan Province, Xiangya Road 87, Changsha 410008, Hunan, China; Xiangya Cancer Center, Xiangya Hospital, Central South University, Xiangya Road 87, Changsha 410008, Hunan, China; Center for Molecular Oncology and Immunology, Xiangya Hospital, Central South University, Xiangya Road 87, Changsha 410008, Hunan, China; Clinical Research Center for Pharyngolaryngeal Diseases and Voice Disorders in Hunan Province, Xiangya Road 87, Changsha 410008, Hunan, China
| | - Jung-Mao Hsu
- Graduate Institute of Biomedical Sciences, Institute of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, Research Center for Cancer Biology, Cancer Biology and Precision Therapeutics Center, and Center for Molecular Medicine, China Medical University, Taichung, Taiwan
| | - Xin Zhang
- Department of Otolaryngology Head and Neck Surgery, Xiangya Hospital, Central South University, Xiangya Road 87, Changsha 410008, Hunan, China; Otolaryngology Major Disease Research Key Laboratory of Hunan Province, Xiangya Road 87, Changsha 410008, Hunan, China; Xiangya Cancer Center, Xiangya Hospital, Central South University, Xiangya Road 87, Changsha 410008, Hunan, China; Clinical Research Center for Pharyngolaryngeal Diseases and Voice Disorders in Hunan Province, Xiangya Road 87, Changsha 410008, Hunan, China; National Clinical Research Center for Geriatric Disorders, Xiangya Hospital, Central South University, Xiangya Road 87, Changsha 410008, Hunan, China.
| | - Mien-Chie Hung
- Graduate Institute of Biomedical Sciences, Institute of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, Research Center for Cancer Biology, Cancer Biology and Precision Therapeutics Center, and Center for Molecular Medicine, China Medical University, Taichung, Taiwan.
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35
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O'Dea R, Kazi N, Hoffmann-Benito A, Zhao Z, Recknagel S, Wendrich K, Janning P, Gersch M. Molecular basis for ubiquitin/Fubi cross-reactivity in USP16 and USP36. Nat Chem Biol 2023; 19:1394-1405. [PMID: 37443395 PMCID: PMC10611586 DOI: 10.1038/s41589-023-01388-1] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/04/2023] [Accepted: 06/21/2023] [Indexed: 07/15/2023]
Abstract
Ubiquitin and ubiquitin-like proteins typically use distinct machineries to facilitate diverse functions. The immunosuppressive ubiquitin-like protein Fubi is synthesized as an N-terminal fusion to a ribosomal protein (Fubi-S30). Its proteolytic maturation by the nucleolar deubiquitinase USP36 is strictly required for translationally competent ribosomes. What endows USP36 with this activity, how Fubi is recognized and whether other Fubi proteases exist are unclear. Here, we report a chemical tool kit that facilitated the discovery of dual ubiquitin/Fubi cleavage activity in USP16 in addition to USP36 by chemoproteomics. Crystal structures of USP36 complexed with Fubi and ubiquitin uncover its substrate recognition mechanism and explain how other deubiquitinases are restricted from Fubi. Furthermore, we introduce Fubi C-terminal hydrolase measurements and reveal a synergistic role of USP16 in Fubi-S30 maturation. Our data highlight how ubiquitin/Fubi specificity is achieved in a subset of human deubiquitinases and open the door to a systematic investigation of the Fubi system.
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Affiliation(s)
- Rachel O'Dea
- Chemical Genomics Centre, Max Planck Institute of Molecular Physiology, Dortmund, Germany
- Department of Chemistry and Chemical Biology, TU Dortmund University, Dortmund, Germany
| | - Nafizul Kazi
- Chemical Genomics Centre, Max Planck Institute of Molecular Physiology, Dortmund, Germany
- Department of Chemistry and Chemical Biology, TU Dortmund University, Dortmund, Germany
| | - Alicia Hoffmann-Benito
- Chemical Genomics Centre, Max Planck Institute of Molecular Physiology, Dortmund, Germany
- Department of Chemistry and Chemical Biology, TU Dortmund University, Dortmund, Germany
| | - Zhou Zhao
- Chemical Genomics Centre, Max Planck Institute of Molecular Physiology, Dortmund, Germany
- Department of Chemistry and Chemical Biology, TU Dortmund University, Dortmund, Germany
| | - Sarah Recknagel
- Chemical Genomics Centre, Max Planck Institute of Molecular Physiology, Dortmund, Germany
- Department of Chemistry and Chemical Biology, TU Dortmund University, Dortmund, Germany
| | - Kim Wendrich
- Chemical Genomics Centre, Max Planck Institute of Molecular Physiology, Dortmund, Germany
- Department of Chemistry and Chemical Biology, TU Dortmund University, Dortmund, Germany
| | - Petra Janning
- Department of Chemical Biology, Max Planck Institute of Molecular Physiology, Dortmund, Germany
| | - Malte Gersch
- Chemical Genomics Centre, Max Planck Institute of Molecular Physiology, Dortmund, Germany.
- Department of Chemistry and Chemical Biology, TU Dortmund University, Dortmund, Germany.
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36
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Jiang Y, Ni S, Xiao B, Jia L. Function, mechanism and drug discovery of ubiquitin and ubiquitin-like modification with multiomics profiling for cancer therapy. Acta Pharm Sin B 2023; 13:4341-4372. [PMID: 37969742 PMCID: PMC10638515 DOI: 10.1016/j.apsb.2023.07.019] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/16/2023] [Revised: 05/21/2023] [Accepted: 07/17/2023] [Indexed: 11/17/2023] Open
Abstract
Ubiquitin (Ub) and ubiquitin-like (Ubl) pathways are critical post-translational modifications that determine whether functional proteins are degraded or activated/inactivated. To date, >600 associated enzymes have been reported that comprise a hierarchical task network (e.g., E1-E2-E3 cascade enzymatic reaction and deubiquitination) to modulate substrates, including enormous oncoproteins and tumor-suppressive proteins. Several strategies, such as classical biochemical approaches, multiomics, and clinical sample analysis, were combined to elucidate the functional relations between these enzymes and tumors. In this regard, the fundamental advances and follow-on drug discoveries have been crucial in providing vital information concerning contemporary translational efforts to tailor individualized treatment by targeting Ub and Ubl pathways. Correspondingly, emphasizing the current progress of Ub-related pathways as therapeutic targets in cancer is deemed essential. In the present review, we summarize and discuss the functions, clinical significance, and regulatory mechanisms of Ub and Ubl pathways in tumorigenesis as well as the current progress of small-molecular drug discovery. In particular, multiomics analyses were integrated to delineate the complexity of Ub and Ubl modifications for cancer therapy. The present review will provide a focused and up-to-date overview for the researchers to pursue further studies regarding the Ub and Ubl pathways targeted anticancer strategies.
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Affiliation(s)
| | | | - Biying Xiao
- Cancer Institute, Longhua Hospital, Shanghai University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Shanghai 200032, China
| | - Lijun Jia
- Cancer Institute, Longhua Hospital, Shanghai University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Shanghai 200032, China
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37
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Ibrahim B, Akere TH, Chakraborty S, Valsami-Jones E, Ali-Boucetta H. Functionalized Gold Nanoparticles Suppress the Proliferation of Human Lung Alveolar Adenocarcinoma Cells by Deubiquitinating Enzymes Inhibition. ACS OMEGA 2023; 8:40622-40638. [PMID: 37929120 PMCID: PMC10620884 DOI: 10.1021/acsomega.3c05452] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/26/2023] [Revised: 10/06/2023] [Accepted: 10/11/2023] [Indexed: 11/07/2023]
Abstract
Functionalized gold nanoparticles (AuNPs) are widely used in therapeutic applications, but little is known regarding the impact of their surface functionalization in the process of toxicity against cancer cells. This study investigates the anticancer effects of 5 nm spherical AuNPs functionalized with tannate, citrate, and PVP on deubiquitinating enzymes (DUBs) in human lung alveolar adenocarcinoma (A549) cells. Our findings show that functionalized AuNPs reduce the cell viability in a concentration- and time-dependent manner as measured by modified lactate dehydrogenase (mLDH) and 3-[4,5-dimethylthiazole-2-yl]-2,5-diphenyltetrazolium bromide (MTT) assays. An increased generation of intracellular reactive oxygen species (ROS) and depletion of glutathione (GSH/GSSG) ratio was observed with the highest AuNP concentration of 10 μg/mL. The expression of DUBs such as ubiquitin specific proteases (USP7, USP8, and USP10) was slightly inhibited when treated with concentrations above 2.5 μg/mL. Moreover, functionalized AuNPs showed an inhibitory effect on protein kinase B/mammalian target of rapamycin (PI3K/AKT/mTOR) and wingless-related integration site (Wnt) signaling proteins, and this could further trigger mitochondrial related-apoptosis by the upregulation of caspase-3, caspase-9, and PARP in A549 cells. Furthermore, our study shows a mechanistic understanding of how functionalized AuNPs inhibit the DUBs, consequently suppressing cell proliferation, and can be modulated as an approach toward anticancer therapy. The study also warrants the need for future work to investigate the effect of functionalized AuNPs on DUB on other cancer cell lines both in vitro and in vivo.
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Affiliation(s)
- Bashiru Ibrahim
- Nanomedicine,
Drug Delivery & Nanotoxicology (NDDN) Lab, School of Pharmacy,
College of Medical and Dental Sciences, University of Birmingham, Birmingham B15 2TT, U.K.
- School
of Geography, Earth and Environmental Sciences, College of Life and
Environmental Sciences, University of Birmingham, Birmingham B15 2TT, U.K.
| | - Taiwo Hassan Akere
- Nanomedicine,
Drug Delivery & Nanotoxicology (NDDN) Lab, School of Pharmacy,
College of Medical and Dental Sciences, University of Birmingham, Birmingham B15 2TT, U.K.
- School
of Geography, Earth and Environmental Sciences, College of Life and
Environmental Sciences, University of Birmingham, Birmingham B15 2TT, U.K.
| | - Swaroop Chakraborty
- School
of Geography, Earth and Environmental Sciences, College of Life and
Environmental Sciences, University of Birmingham, Birmingham B15 2TT, U.K.
| | - Eugenia Valsami-Jones
- School
of Geography, Earth and Environmental Sciences, College of Life and
Environmental Sciences, University of Birmingham, Birmingham B15 2TT, U.K.
| | - Hanene Ali-Boucetta
- Nanomedicine,
Drug Delivery & Nanotoxicology (NDDN) Lab, School of Pharmacy,
College of Medical and Dental Sciences, University of Birmingham, Birmingham B15 2TT, U.K.
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38
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Clancy A, Rusilowicz-Jones EV, Wallace I, Swatek KN, Urbé S, Clague MJ. ISGylation-independent protection of cell growth by USP18 following interferon stimulation. Biochem J 2023; 480:1571-1581. [PMID: 37756534 PMCID: PMC10586769 DOI: 10.1042/bcj20230301] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/21/2023] [Revised: 09/20/2023] [Accepted: 09/26/2023] [Indexed: 09/29/2023]
Abstract
Type 1 interferon stimulation highly up-regulates all elements of a ubiquitin-like conjugation system that leads to ISGylation of target proteins. An ISG15-specific member of the deubiquitylase family, USP18, is up-regulated in a co-ordinated manner. USP18 can also provide a negative feedback by inhibiting JAK-STAT signalling through protein interactions independently of DUB activity. Here, we provide an acute example of this phenomenon, whereby the early expression of USP18, post-interferon treatment of HCT116 colon cancer cells is sufficient to fully suppress the expression of the ISG15 E1 enzyme, UBA7. Stimulation of lung adenocarcinoma A549 cells with interferon reduces their growth rate but they remain viable. In contrast, A549 USP18 knock-out cells show similar growth characteristics under basal conditions, but upon interferon stimulation, a profound inhibition of cell growth is observed. We show that this contingency on USP18 is independent of ISGylation, suggesting non-catalytic functions are required for viability. We also demonstrate that global deISGylation kinetics are very slow compared with deubiquitylation. This is not influenced by USP18 expression, suggesting that enhanced ISGylation in USP18 KO cells reflects increased conjugating activity.
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Affiliation(s)
- Anne Clancy
- Biochemistry, Cell and Systems Biology, Institute of Systems, Molecular and Integrative Biology, University of Liverpool, Crown St., Liverpool L69 3BX, U.K
| | - Emma V. Rusilowicz-Jones
- Biochemistry, Cell and Systems Biology, Institute of Systems, Molecular and Integrative Biology, University of Liverpool, Crown St., Liverpool L69 3BX, U.K
| | - Iona Wallace
- MRC Protein Phosphorylation and Ubiquitylation Unit, School of Life Sciences, University of Dundee, Dundee DD1 5EH, U.K
| | - Kirby N. Swatek
- MRC Protein Phosphorylation and Ubiquitylation Unit, School of Life Sciences, University of Dundee, Dundee DD1 5EH, U.K
| | - Sylvie Urbé
- Biochemistry, Cell and Systems Biology, Institute of Systems, Molecular and Integrative Biology, University of Liverpool, Crown St., Liverpool L69 3BX, U.K
| | - Michael J. Clague
- Biochemistry, Cell and Systems Biology, Institute of Systems, Molecular and Integrative Biology, University of Liverpool, Crown St., Liverpool L69 3BX, U.K
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39
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Spencer ZT, Ng VH, Benchabane H, Siddiqui GS, Duwadi D, Maines B, Bryant JM, Schwarzkopf A, Yuan K, Kassel SN, Mishra A, Pimentel A, Lebensohn AM, Rohatgi R, Gerber SA, Robbins DJ, Lee E, Ahmed Y. The USP46 deubiquitylase complex increases Wingless/Wnt signaling strength by stabilizing Arrow/LRP6. Nat Commun 2023; 14:6174. [PMID: 37798281 PMCID: PMC10556106 DOI: 10.1038/s41467-023-41843-0] [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: 12/19/2021] [Accepted: 09/20/2023] [Indexed: 10/07/2023] Open
Abstract
The control of Wnt receptor abundance is critical for animal development and to prevent tumorigenesis, but the mechanisms that mediate receptor stabilization remain uncertain. We demonstrate that stabilization of the essential Wingless/Wnt receptor Arrow/LRP6 by the evolutionarily conserved Usp46-Uaf1-Wdr20 deubiquitylase complex controls signaling strength in Drosophila. By reducing Arrow ubiquitylation and turnover, the Usp46 complex increases cell surface levels of Arrow and enhances the sensitivity of target cells to stimulation by the Wingless morphogen, thereby increasing the amplitude and spatial range of signaling responses. Usp46 inactivation in Wingless-responding cells destabilizes Arrow, reduces cytoplasmic accumulation of the transcriptional coactivator Armadillo/β-catenin, and attenuates or abolishes Wingless target gene activation, which prevents the concentration-dependent regulation of signaling strength. Consequently, Wingless-dependent developmental patterning and tissue homeostasis are disrupted. These results reveal an evolutionarily conserved mechanism that mediates Wnt/Wingless receptor stabilization and underlies the precise activation of signaling throughout the spatial range of the morphogen gradient.
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Affiliation(s)
- Zachary T Spencer
- Department of Molecular and Systems Biology and the Dartmouth Cancer Center, Geisel School of Medicine, Dartmouth College, Hanover, NH, 03755, USA
| | - Victoria H Ng
- Department of Cell and Developmental Biology, Vanderbilt University, Nashville, TN, 37232, USA
| | - Hassina Benchabane
- Department of Molecular and Systems Biology and the Dartmouth Cancer Center, Geisel School of Medicine, Dartmouth College, Hanover, NH, 03755, USA
| | - Ghalia Saad Siddiqui
- Department of Molecular and Systems Biology and the Dartmouth Cancer Center, Geisel School of Medicine, Dartmouth College, Hanover, NH, 03755, USA
| | - Deepesh Duwadi
- Department of Molecular and Systems Biology and the Dartmouth Cancer Center, Geisel School of Medicine, Dartmouth College, Hanover, NH, 03755, USA
| | - Ben Maines
- Department of Molecular and Systems Biology and the Dartmouth Cancer Center, Geisel School of Medicine, Dartmouth College, Hanover, NH, 03755, USA
| | - Jamal M Bryant
- Department of Cell and Developmental Biology, Vanderbilt University, Nashville, TN, 37232, USA
| | - Anna Schwarzkopf
- Department of Cell and Developmental Biology, Vanderbilt University, Nashville, TN, 37232, USA
| | - Kai Yuan
- Department of Molecular and Systems Biology and the Dartmouth Cancer Center, Geisel School of Medicine, Dartmouth College, Hanover, NH, 03755, USA
| | - Sara N Kassel
- Department of Cell and Developmental Biology, Vanderbilt University, Nashville, TN, 37232, USA
| | - Anant Mishra
- Department of Molecular and Systems Biology and the Dartmouth Cancer Center, Geisel School of Medicine, Dartmouth College, Hanover, NH, 03755, USA
| | - Ashley Pimentel
- Department of Molecular and Systems Biology and the Dartmouth Cancer Center, Geisel School of Medicine, Dartmouth College, Hanover, NH, 03755, USA
| | - Andres M Lebensohn
- Laboratory of Cellular and Molecular Biology, Center for Cancer Research, National Cancer Institute, National Institutes of Health, Bethesda, MD, 20892, USA
| | - Rajat Rohatgi
- Department of Biochemistry, Stanford University School of Medicine, Stanford, CA, 94305, USA
| | - Scott A Gerber
- Department of Molecular and Systems Biology and the Dartmouth Cancer Center, Geisel School of Medicine at Dartmouth, Lebanon, NH, 03766, USA
| | - David J Robbins
- Department of Oncology, Lombardi Comprehensive Cancer Center, Georgetown University, Washington, DC, 20057, USA
| | - Ethan Lee
- Department of Cell and Developmental Biology, Vanderbilt University, Nashville, TN, 37232, USA.
| | - Yashi Ahmed
- Department of Molecular and Systems Biology and the Dartmouth Cancer Center, Geisel School of Medicine, Dartmouth College, Hanover, NH, 03755, USA.
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40
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He C, Zhou W, Jin X, Zhou H. Derepressing of STAT3 and USP7 contributes to resistance of DLBCL to EZH2 inhibition. Heliyon 2023; 9:e20650. [PMID: 37829803 PMCID: PMC10565777 DOI: 10.1016/j.heliyon.2023.e20650] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/11/2022] [Revised: 09/22/2023] [Accepted: 10/03/2023] [Indexed: 10/14/2023] Open
Abstract
Diffuse large B-cell lymphoma is the most common subtype of lymphoma, representing ∼25 % of non-Hodgkin lymphoid malignancies. EZH2 is highly expressed in Diffuse large B-cell lymphoma and ∼22 % of patients contain EZH2 mutations. EZH2 have been studied as a potential therapeutic target for a decade, but efficient inhibition of EZH2 did not robustly kill lymphoma cells. Here, we found that EZH2 mediates repression of oncogenic genes STAT3 and USP7 in Diffuse large B-cell lymphoma cells. Inhibition of EZH2 leads to upregulation of STAT3 and USP7 at both RNA and protein levels. Along with USP7 upregulation, MDM2 is upregulated and its ubiquitylation substrate, Tumor suppressor P53, is downregulated. Upregulation of STAT3 and downregulation of p53 can strength cell proliferation and prevent cells from apoptosis, which suggests resistance mechanisms by which cells survive EZH2 inhibition-induced cell death. Short-course co-inhibition of USP7 and EZH2 showed increased apoptosis and cell proliferation prevention with the concentration as low as 0.08 μM. In STAT3 and USP7 depleted cells, EZH2 inhibition shows superior efficacy of apoptosis, and in EZH2 depleted cells, USP7 inhibition also shows superior efficacy of apoptosis. Thus, our findings suggest a new precision therapy by combinational inhibition of EZH2 with STAT3 or USP7 for Diffuse large B-cell lymphoma.
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Affiliation(s)
- Chenyun He
- Affililated Tumor Hospital of Nantong University, Nantong, Jiangsu, China
| | - Wenbin Zhou
- East Hospital of Shaoyang Central Hospital Medical Group, Shaoyang, Hunan, China
| | - Xiaoxia Jin
- Affililated Tumor Hospital of Nantong University, Nantong, Jiangsu, China
| | - Haining Zhou
- National Laboratory of Biomacromolecules, Institute of Biophysics, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing, China
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41
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Shin SC, Park J, Kim KH, Yoon JM, Cho J, Ha BH, Oh Y, Choo H, Song EJ, Kim EE. Structural and functional characterization of USP47 reveals a hot spot for inhibitor design. Commun Biol 2023; 6:970. [PMID: 37740002 PMCID: PMC10516900 DOI: 10.1038/s42003-023-05345-5] [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: 08/31/2022] [Accepted: 09/12/2023] [Indexed: 09/24/2023] Open
Abstract
USP47 is widely involved in tumor development, metastasis, and other processes while performing a more regulatory role in inflammatory responses, myocardial infarction, and neuronal development. In this study, we investigate the functional and biochemical properties of USP47, whereby depleting USP47 inhibited cancer cell growth in a p53-dependent manner-a phenomenon that enhances during the simultaneous knockdown of USP7. Full-length USP47 shows higher deubiquitinase activity than the catalytic domain. The crystal structures of the catalytic domain, in its free and ubiquitin-bound states, reveal that the misaligned catalytic triads, ultimately, become aligned upon ubiquitin-binding, similar to USP7, thereby becoming ready for catalysis. Yet, the composition and lengths of BL1, BL2, and BL3 of USP47 differ from those for USP7, and they contribute to the observed selectivity. Our study provides molecular details of USP47 regulation, substrate recognition, and the hotspots for drug discovery by targeting USP47.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sang Chul Shin
- Biomedical Research Institute, Korea Institute of Science and Technology, Seoul, 02792, Republic of Korea
- Research Resources Division, Korea Institute of Science and Technology, Seoul, 02792, Republic of Korea
| | - Jinyoung Park
- Biomedical Research Institute, Korea Institute of Science and Technology, Seoul, 02792, Republic of Korea
- Division of Bio‑Medical Science and Technology, KIST‑School, University of Science and Technology (UST), Seoul, 02792, Korea
| | - Kyung Hee Kim
- Biomedical Research Institute, Korea Institute of Science and Technology, Seoul, 02792, Republic of Korea
| | - Jung Min Yoon
- Biomedical Research Institute, Korea Institute of Science and Technology, Seoul, 02792, Republic of Korea
- Graduate School of Pharmaceutical Sciences, College of Pharmacy, Ewha Womans University, Seoul, 03760, Republic of Korea
| | - Jinhong Cho
- Biomedical Research Institute, Korea Institute of Science and Technology, Seoul, 02792, Republic of Korea
| | - Byung Hak Ha
- Biomedical Research Institute, Korea Institute of Science and Technology, Seoul, 02792, Republic of Korea
- Dana-Farber Cancer Institute, Boston, MA, 02215, USA
| | - Yeonji Oh
- Brain Science Institute, Korea Institute of Science and Technology, Seoul, 02792, Republic of Korea
| | - Hyunah Choo
- Division of Bio‑Medical Science and Technology, KIST‑School, University of Science and Technology (UST), Seoul, 02792, Korea
- Brain Science Institute, Korea Institute of Science and Technology, Seoul, 02792, Republic of Korea
| | - Eun Joo Song
- Graduate School of Pharmaceutical Sciences, College of Pharmacy, Ewha Womans University, Seoul, 03760, Republic of Korea.
| | - Eunice EunKyeong Kim
- Biomedical Research Institute, Korea Institute of Science and Technology, Seoul, 02792, Republic of Korea.
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42
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Pereira TO, Abbasi M, Arrais JP. Enhancing reinforcement learning for de novo molecular design applying self-attention mechanisms. Brief Bioinform 2023; 24:bbad368. [PMID: 37903414 DOI: 10.1093/bib/bbad368] [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: 07/05/2023] [Revised: 09/04/2023] [Accepted: 09/26/2023] [Indexed: 11/01/2023] Open
Abstract
The drug discovery process can be significantly improved by applying deep reinforcement learning (RL) methods that learn to generate compounds with desired pharmacological properties. Nevertheless, RL-based methods typically condense the evaluation of sampled compounds into a single scalar value, making it difficult for the generative agent to learn the optimal policy. This work combines self-attention mechanisms and RL to generate promising molecules. The idea is to evaluate the relative significance of each atom and functional group in their interaction with the target, and to utilize this information for optimizing the Generator. Therefore, the framework for de novo drug design is composed of a Generator that samples new compounds combined with a Transformer-encoder and a biological affinity Predictor that evaluate the generated structures. Moreover, it takes the advantage of the knowledge encapsulated in the Transformer's attention weights to evaluate each token individually. We compared the performance of two output prediction strategies for the Transformer: standard and masked language model (MLM). The results show that the MLM Transformer is more effective in optimizing the Generator compared with the state-of-the-art works. Additionally, the evaluation models identified the most important regions of each molecule for the biological interaction with the target. As a case study, we generated synthesizable hit compounds that can be putative inhibitors of the enzyme ubiquitin-specific protein 7 (USP7).
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Affiliation(s)
- Tiago O Pereira
- Centre for Informatics and Systems of the University of Coimbra, Department of Informatics Engineering, Univ Coimbra, Coimbra, Portugal
| | - Maryam Abbasi
- Centre for Informatics and Systems of the University of Coimbra, Department of Informatics Engineering, Univ Coimbra, Coimbra, Portugal
| | - Joel P Arrais
- Centre for Informatics and Systems of the University of Coimbra, Department of Informatics Engineering, Univ Coimbra, Coimbra, Portugal
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43
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Ye Z, Yang J, Jiang H, Zhan X. The roles of protein ubiquitination in tumorigenesis and targeted drug discovery in lung cancer. Front Endocrinol (Lausanne) 2023; 14:1220108. [PMID: 37795365 PMCID: PMC10546409 DOI: 10.3389/fendo.2023.1220108] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/10/2023] [Accepted: 08/31/2023] [Indexed: 10/06/2023] Open
Abstract
The malignant lung cancer has a high morbidity rate and very poor 5-year survival rate. About 80% - 90% of protein degradation in human cells is occurred through the ubiquitination enzyme pathway. Ubiquitin ligase (E3) with high specificity plays a crucial role in the ubiquitination process of the target protein, which usually occurs at a lysine residue in a substrate protein. Different ubiquitination forms have different effects on the target proteins. Multiple short chains of ubiquitination residues modify substrate proteins, which are favorable signals for protein degradation. The dynamic balance adapted to physiological needs between ubiquitination and deubiquitination of intracellular proteins is beneficial to the health of the organism. Ubiquitination of proteins has an impact on many biological pathways, and imbalances in these pathways lead to diseases including lung cancer. Ubiquitination of tumor suppressor protein factors or deubiquitination of tumor carcinogen protein factors often lead to the progression of lung cancer. Ubiquitin proteasome system (UPS) is a treasure house for research and development of new cancer drugs for lung cancer, especially targeting proteasome and E3s. The ubiquitination and degradation of oncogene proteins with precise targeting may provide a bright prospect for drug development in lung cancer; Especially proteolytic targeted chimerism (PROTAC)-induced protein degradation technology will offer a new strategy in the discovery and development of new drugs for lung cancer.
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Affiliation(s)
- Zhen Ye
- Medical Science and Technology Innovation Center, Shandong Key Laboratory of Radiation Oncology, Shandong Cancer Hospital and Institute, Shandong First Medical University & Shandong Academy of Medical Sciences, Jinan, Shandong, China
- School of Clinical and Basic Medicine, Shandong First Medical University & Shandong Academy of Medical Sciences, Jinan, Shandong, China
| | - Jingru Yang
- Medical Science and Technology Innovation Center, Shandong Key Laboratory of Radiation Oncology, Shandong Cancer Hospital and Institute, Shandong First Medical University & Shandong Academy of Medical Sciences, Jinan, Shandong, China
| | - Hanming Jiang
- School of Clinical and Basic Medicine, Shandong First Medical University & Shandong Academy of Medical Sciences, Jinan, Shandong, China
| | - Xianquan Zhan
- Medical Science and Technology Innovation Center, Shandong Key Laboratory of Radiation Oncology, Shandong Cancer Hospital and Institute, Shandong First Medical University & Shandong Academy of Medical Sciences, Jinan, Shandong, China
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44
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Xia C, Xiao C, Luk HY, Chan PKS, Boon SS. The ubiquitin specific protease 7 stabilizes HPV16E7 to promote HPV-mediated carcinogenesis. Cell Mol Life Sci 2023; 80:278. [PMID: 37682346 PMCID: PMC11072444 DOI: 10.1007/s00018-023-04941-2] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/02/2023] [Revised: 08/23/2023] [Accepted: 08/27/2023] [Indexed: 09/09/2023]
Abstract
Human papillomavirus (HPV) encoded E7 oncoprotein plays an important role in supporting the viral productive cycle and inducing cancer phenotypes. The ability of E7 to exercise these functions, partly, depends upon its steady-state level. HPV manipulates the host de-ubiquitination pathway to maintain the stability of its viral proteins. In this study, we uncovered that HPV interacts with the host ubiquitin specific protease 7 (USP7), a universal de-ubiquitinating enzyme, leading to the stabilization of E7 oncoprotein. We observed that HPV16E7 complexes with USP7 via the E7-CR3 domain, and this E7-USP7 complex exists predominantly in the nucleus. Our results showed that USP7 stabilizes and prolongs the half-life of HPV16E7 by antagonizing ubiquitination and proteasomal degradation. Consistently, when we inhibited USP7 activity using HBX 19818, HPV16E7 protein level was reduced and its turnover was increased. We also provide evidence that HBX 19818-induced USP7 inhibition can halt HPV-mediated carcinogenesis, including cell proliferation, invasion, migration and transformation. These findings indicate that USP7 plays an essential role in stabilizing E7. The specific and potent inhibitory effects of HBX 19818 on HPV-induced carcinogenesis provide a molecular insight, suggesting the potential of targeting USP7 as a new therapeutic approach for the treatment of HPV-associated cancers.
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Affiliation(s)
- Chichao Xia
- Department of Microbiology, The Chinese University of Hong Kong, Prince of Wales Hospital, Shatin, New Territories, Hong Kong SAR
| | - Chuanyun Xiao
- Department of Microbiology, The Chinese University of Hong Kong, Prince of Wales Hospital, Shatin, New Territories, Hong Kong SAR
| | - Ho Yin Luk
- Department of Microbiology, The Chinese University of Hong Kong, Prince of Wales Hospital, Shatin, New Territories, Hong Kong SAR
| | - Paul K S Chan
- Department of Microbiology, The Chinese University of Hong Kong, Prince of Wales Hospital, Shatin, New Territories, Hong Kong SAR
| | - Siaw Shi Boon
- Department of Microbiology, The Chinese University of Hong Kong, Prince of Wales Hospital, Shatin, New Territories, Hong Kong SAR.
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45
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Le Clorennec C, Lee K, Huo Y, Zage PE. USP7 Inhibition Suppresses Neuroblastoma Growth via Induction of p53-Mediated Apoptosis and EZH2 and N-Myc Downregulation. Int J Mol Sci 2023; 24:13780. [PMID: 37762082 PMCID: PMC10531325 DOI: 10.3390/ijms241813780] [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: 06/30/2023] [Revised: 08/14/2023] [Accepted: 08/28/2023] [Indexed: 09/29/2023] Open
Abstract
Neuroblastoma (NB) is a pediatric malignancy originating from neural crest cells of the sympathetic nervous system that accounts for 15% of all pediatric cancer deaths. Despite advances in treatment, high-risk NB remains difficult to cure, highlighting the need for novel therapeutic approaches. Ubiquitin-specific protease 7 (USP7) is a deubiquitinase that plays a critical role in tumor suppression and DNA repair, and USP7 overexpression has been associated with tumor aggressiveness in a variety of tumors, including NB. Therefore, USP7 is a potential therapeutic target for NB. The tumor suppressor p53 is a known target of USP7, and therefore reactivation of the p53 pathway may be an effective therapeutic strategy for NB treatment. We hypothesized that inhibition of USP7 would be effective against NB tumor growth. Using a novel USP7 inhibitor, Almac4, we have demonstrated significant antitumor activity, with significant decreases in both cell proliferation and cell viability in TP53 wild-type NB cell lines. USP7 inhibition in NB cells activated the p53 pathway via USP7 and MDM2 degradation, leading to reduced p53 ubiquitination and increased p53 expression in all sensitive NB cells. In addition, USP7 inhibition led to decreased N-myc protein levels in both MYCN-amplified and -nonamplified NB cell lines, but no correlation was observed between MYCN amplification and treatment response. USP7 inhibition induced apoptosis in all TP53 wild-type NB cell lines. USP7 inhibition also induced EZH2 ubiquitination and degradation. Lastly, the combination of USP7 and MDM2 inhibition showed enhanced efficacy. Our data suggests that USP7 inhibition may be a promising therapeutic strategy for children with high-risk and relapsed NB.
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Affiliation(s)
- Christophe Le Clorennec
- Department of Pediatrics, Division of Hematology-Oncology, University of California San Diego, La Jolla, CA 92093, USA
| | - Karen Lee
- Department of Pediatrics, Division of Hematology-Oncology, University of California San Diego, La Jolla, CA 92093, USA
- Peckham Center for Cancer and Blood Disorders, Rady Children’s Hospital, San Diego, CA 92123, USA
| | - Yuchen Huo
- Department of Pediatrics, Division of Hematology-Oncology, University of California San Diego, La Jolla, CA 92093, USA
| | - Peter E. Zage
- Department of Pediatrics, Division of Hematology-Oncology, University of California San Diego, La Jolla, CA 92093, USA
- Peckham Center for Cancer and Blood Disorders, Rady Children’s Hospital, San Diego, CA 92123, USA
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Gao H, Yin J, Ji C, Yu X, Xue J, Guan X, Zhang S, Liu X, Xing F. Targeting ubiquitin specific proteases (USPs) in cancer immunotherapy: from basic research to preclinical application. J Exp Clin Cancer Res 2023; 42:225. [PMID: 37658402 PMCID: PMC10472646 DOI: 10.1186/s13046-023-02805-y] [Citation(s) in RCA: 12] [Impact Index Per Article: 12.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/10/2023] [Accepted: 08/21/2023] [Indexed: 09/03/2023] Open
Abstract
Tumors have evolved in various mechanisms to evade the immune system, hindering the antitumor immune response and facilitating tumor progression. Immunotherapy has become a potential treatment strategy specific to different cancer types by utilizing multifarious molecular mechanisms to enhance the immune response against tumors. Among these mechanisms, the ubiquitin-proteasome system (UPS) is a significant non-lysosomal pathway specific to protein degradation, regulated by deubiquitinating enzymes (DUBs) that counterbalance ubiquitin signaling. Ubiquitin-specific proteases (USPs), the largest DUB family with the strongest variety, play critical roles in modulating immune cell function, regulating immune response, and participating in antigen processing and presentation during tumor progression. According to recent studies, the expressions of some USP family members in tumor cells are involved in tumor immune escape and immune microenvironment. This review explores the potential of targeting USPs as a new approach for cancer immunotherapy, highlighting recent basic and preclinical studies investigating the applications of USP inhibitors. By providing insights into the structure and function of USPs in cancer immunity, this review aims at assisting in developing new therapeutic approaches for enhancing the immunotherapy efficacy.
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Affiliation(s)
- Hongli Gao
- Department of Oncology, Shengjing Hospital of China Medical University, Shenyang, 110004, China
| | - Jianqiao Yin
- Department of Oncology, Shengjing Hospital of China Medical University, Shenyang, 110004, China
| | - Ce Ji
- Department of General Surgery, Shengjing Hospital of China Medical University, Shenyang, 110004, China
| | - Xiaopeng Yu
- Department of Oncology, Shengjing Hospital of China Medical University, Shenyang, 110004, China
| | - Jinqi Xue
- Department of Oncology, Shengjing Hospital of China Medical University, Shenyang, 110004, China
| | - Xin Guan
- Department of Gastroenterology, Shengjing Hospital of China Medical University, Shenyang, 110004, China
| | - Shuang Zhang
- Department of General Surgery, Shengjing Hospital of China Medical University, Shenyang, 110004, China
| | - Xun Liu
- Department of General Surgery, Shengjing Hospital of China Medical University, Shenyang, 110004, China.
| | - Fei Xing
- Department of Oncology, Shengjing Hospital of China Medical University, Shenyang, 110004, China.
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Zhou M, Gao Y, Wu S, Chen J, Ding J, Wang Y, Yang J. Ubiquitin-specific protease 7 prevents recurrent spontaneous abortion by targeting enhancer of zeste homolog 2 to regulate trophoblast proliferation, apoptosis, migration, and invasion through the Wnt/β-catenin pathway†. Biol Reprod 2023; 109:204-214. [PMID: 37249558 DOI: 10.1093/biolre/ioad053] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/15/2022] [Revised: 04/11/2023] [Accepted: 05/11/2023] [Indexed: 05/31/2023] Open
Abstract
Trophoblasts are significant components of the placenta and play crucial roles in maternal-fetal crosstalk. Adequate trophoblast migration and invasion are essential for embryo implantation and healthy pregnancy. Ubiquitin-specific protease 7 (USP7), a member of the deubiquitinating enzyme family, regulates the processes of migration and invasion in multiple tumor cells. However, the effects of USP7 on trophoblasts and its possible mechanism in the development of recurrent spontaneous abortion (RSA) are still unclear. In this study, we analyzed the expression of USP7 in villous tissues obtained from RSA patients and healthy controls, and then GNE-6776 (a USP7-specific inhibitor) and USP7 siRNA were used in a trophoblast cell line, HTR-8/SVneo, to further assess the effect of USP7 on the biological function of trophoblasts. Our results provide convincing evidence that USP7 is downregulated in the placental villous tissues of RSA patients. USP7 was found to have a crucial role in the proliferation, apoptosis, migration, invasion, and epithelial-mesenchymal transition (EMT) process of trophoblast cells. Further experiments revealed that USP7 directly interacted with the enhancer of zeste homolog 2 (EZH2) and regulated the Wnt/β-catenin signaling pathway in trophoblasts. Taken together, these findings indicate the vital role of USP7 in regulating trophoblast proliferation, migration and invasion, thus affecting the pathogenesis of RSA, providing new insights into the important role of USP7 in the maternal-fetal interface.
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Affiliation(s)
- Mengqi Zhou
- Department of Reproductive Medical Center, Renmin Hospital of Wuhan University, Wuhan, Hubei, China
- Hubei Clinic Research Center for Assisted Reproductive Technology and Embryonic Development, Wuhan, Hubei, China
| | - Yue Gao
- Department of Reproductive Medicine, Maternal and Child Health Hospital of Hubei Province, Wuhan, Hubei, China
| | - Shujuan Wu
- Department of Reproductive Medical Center, Renmin Hospital of Wuhan University, Wuhan, Hubei, China
- Hubei Clinic Research Center for Assisted Reproductive Technology and Embryonic Development, Wuhan, Hubei, China
| | - Jiao Chen
- Department of Reproductive Medical Center, Renmin Hospital of Wuhan University, Wuhan, Hubei, China
- Hubei Clinic Research Center for Assisted Reproductive Technology and Embryonic Development, Wuhan, Hubei, China
| | - Jinli Ding
- Department of Reproductive Medical Center, Renmin Hospital of Wuhan University, Wuhan, Hubei, China
- Hubei Clinic Research Center for Assisted Reproductive Technology and Embryonic Development, Wuhan, Hubei, China
| | - Yaqin Wang
- Department of Reproductive Medical Center, Renmin Hospital of Wuhan University, Wuhan, Hubei, China
- Hubei Clinic Research Center for Assisted Reproductive Technology and Embryonic Development, Wuhan, Hubei, China
| | - Jing Yang
- Department of Reproductive Medical Center, Renmin Hospital of Wuhan University, Wuhan, Hubei, China
- Hubei Clinic Research Center for Assisted Reproductive Technology and Embryonic Development, Wuhan, Hubei, China
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O'Brien DP, Jones HBL, Guenther F, Murphy EJ, England KS, Vendrell I, Anderson M, Brennan PE, Davis JB, Pinto-Fernández A, Turnbull AP, Kessler BM. Structural Premise of Selective Deubiquitinase USP30 Inhibition by Small-Molecule Benzosulfonamides. Mol Cell Proteomics 2023; 22:100609. [PMID: 37385347 PMCID: PMC10400906 DOI: 10.1016/j.mcpro.2023.100609] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/31/2022] [Revised: 06/07/2023] [Accepted: 06/25/2023] [Indexed: 07/01/2023] Open
Abstract
Dampening functional levels of the mitochondrial deubiquitylating enzyme Ubiquitin-specific protease 30 (USP30) has been suggested as an effective therapeutic strategy against neurodegenerative disorders such as Parkinson's Disease. USP30 inhibition may counteract the deleterious effects of impaired turnover of damaged mitochondria, which is inherent to both familial and sporadic forms of the disease. Small-molecule inhibitors targeting USP30 are currently in development, but little is known about their precise nature of binding to the protein. We have integrated biochemical and structural approaches to gain novel mechanistic insights into USP30 inhibition by a small-molecule benzosulfonamide-containing compound, USP30inh. Activity-based protein profiling mass spectrometry confirmed target engagement, high selectivity, and potency of USP30inh for USP30 against 49 other deubiquitylating enzymes in a neuroblastoma cell line. In vitro characterization of USP30inh enzyme kinetics inferred slow and tight binding behavior, which is comparable with features of covalent modification of USP30. Finally, we blended hydrogen-deuterium exchange mass spectrometry and computational docking to elucidate the molecular architecture and geometry of USP30 complex formation with USP30inh, identifying structural rearrangements at the cleft of the USP30 thumb and palm subdomains. These studies suggest that USP30inh binds to this thumb-palm cleft, which guides the ubiquitin C terminus into the active site, thereby preventing ubiquitin binding and isopeptide bond cleavage, and confirming its importance in the inhibitory process. Our data will pave the way for the design and development of next-generation inhibitors targeting USP30 and associated deubiquitinylases.
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Affiliation(s)
- Darragh P O'Brien
- Target Discovery Institute, Centre for Medicines Discovery, Nuffield Department of Medicine, University of Oxford, Oxford, Oxfordshire, UK.
| | - Hannah B L Jones
- Target Discovery Institute, Centre for Medicines Discovery, Nuffield Department of Medicine, University of Oxford, Oxford, Oxfordshire, UK
| | - Franziska Guenther
- ARUK-Oxford Drug Discovery Institute, Centre for Medicines Discovery, Nuffield Department of Medicine, University of Oxford, Oxford, Oxfordshire, UK
| | - Emma J Murphy
- ARUK-Oxford Drug Discovery Institute, Centre for Medicines Discovery, Nuffield Department of Medicine, University of Oxford, Oxford, Oxfordshire, UK
| | - Katherine S England
- ARUK-Oxford Drug Discovery Institute, Centre for Medicines Discovery, Nuffield Department of Medicine, University of Oxford, Oxford, Oxfordshire, UK
| | - Iolanda Vendrell
- Target Discovery Institute, Centre for Medicines Discovery, Nuffield Department of Medicine, University of Oxford, Oxford, Oxfordshire, UK
| | | | - Paul E Brennan
- ARUK-Oxford Drug Discovery Institute, Centre for Medicines Discovery, Nuffield Department of Medicine, University of Oxford, Oxford, Oxfordshire, UK
| | - John B Davis
- ARUK-Oxford Drug Discovery Institute, Centre for Medicines Discovery, Nuffield Department of Medicine, University of Oxford, Oxford, Oxfordshire, UK
| | - Adán Pinto-Fernández
- Target Discovery Institute, Centre for Medicines Discovery, Nuffield Department of Medicine, University of Oxford, Oxford, Oxfordshire, UK; Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences Oxford Institute, Nuffield Department of Medicine, University of Oxford, Oxford, Oxfordshire, UK
| | | | - Benedikt M Kessler
- Target Discovery Institute, Centre for Medicines Discovery, Nuffield Department of Medicine, University of Oxford, Oxford, Oxfordshire, UK; Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences Oxford Institute, Nuffield Department of Medicine, University of Oxford, Oxford, Oxfordshire, UK.
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Zhou L, Qin B, Yassine DM, Luo M, Liu X, Wang F, Wang Y. Structure and function of the highly homologous deubiquitinases ubiquitin specific peptidase 25 and 28: Insights into their pathophysiological and therapeutic roles. Biochem Pharmacol 2023; 213:115624. [PMID: 37245535 DOI: 10.1016/j.bcp.2023.115624] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/13/2023] [Revised: 05/19/2023] [Accepted: 05/22/2023] [Indexed: 05/30/2023]
Abstract
Deubiquitination is the reverse process of ubiquitination, an important protein post-translational modification. Deubiquitination is assisted by deubiquitinating enzymes (DUBs), which catalyze the hydrolysis and removal of ubiquitin chains from targeted proteins and play an important role in regulating protein stability, cell signaling transduction, and programmed cell death. Ubiquitin-specific peptidases 25 and 28 (USP25 and USP28), important members of the USP subfamily of DUBs, are highly homologous, strictly regulated, and closely associated with various diseases, such as cancer and neurodegenerative diseases. Recently, the development of inhibitors targeting USP25 and USP28 for disease treatment has garnered extreme attention. Several non-selective and selective inhibitors have shown potential inhibitory effects. However, the specificity, potency, and action mechanism of these inhibitors remain to be further improved and clarified. Herein, we summarize the structure, regulation, emerging physiological roles, and target inhibition of USP25 and USP28 to provide a basis for the development of highly potent and specific inhibitors for the treatment of diseases, such as colorectal cancer, breast cancer and so on.
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Affiliation(s)
- Lihui Zhou
- Key Laboratory of Molecular Medicine and Biotherapy, School of Life Science, Beijing Institute of Technology, Beijing 100081, China
| | - Biying Qin
- Key Laboratory of Molecular Medicine and Biotherapy, School of Life Science, Beijing Institute of Technology, Beijing 100081, China
| | - Demna Mohamed Yassine
- Key Laboratory of Molecular Medicine and Biotherapy, School of Life Science, Beijing Institute of Technology, Beijing 100081, China
| | - Maoguo Luo
- Key Laboratory of Molecular Medicine and Biotherapy, School of Life Science, Beijing Institute of Technology, Beijing 100081, China
| | - Xiaoling Liu
- School of Life Sciences, Beijing University of Chinese Medicine, Beijing, China
| | - Feng Wang
- Key Laboratory of Molecular Medicine and Biotherapy, School of Life Science, Beijing Institute of Technology, Beijing 100081, China
| | - Yanfeng Wang
- Key Laboratory of Molecular Medicine and Biotherapy, School of Life Science, Beijing Institute of Technology, Beijing 100081, China.
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Carreira LD, Oliveira RI, Moreira VM, Salvador JAR. Ubiquitin-specific protease 7 (USP7): an emerging drug target for cancer treatment. Expert Opin Ther Targets 2023; 27:1043-1058. [PMID: 37789645 DOI: 10.1080/14728222.2023.2266571] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/28/2023] [Accepted: 09/29/2023] [Indexed: 10/05/2023]
Abstract
INTRODUCTION Ubiquitin-specific protease 7 (USP7) also known as herpesvirus-associated ubiquitin-specific protease (HAUSP) is a well-characterized cysteine protease that belongs to the largest subfamily of deubiquitinating enzymes (DUBs). It is involved in multiple signaling pathways, some of them dysregulated in malignant tumors. USP7 inhibition can lead to cell growth arrest and apoptosis through inhibition of tumor promoters and stabilization of tumor suppressors, making it a promising druggable target for cancer therapy. AREAS COVERED This review covers the structure of USP7, its function in multiple signaling pathways and relevance in cancer, as well as recent advances and future perspectives in the development of USP7 inhibitors for cancer therapy. EXPERT OPINION Literature reports display the multiple antitumor activities of USP7 inhibitors, both in vitro and in vivo. Nonetheless, none have entered clinical trials so far, highlighting the need to delve into a deeper understanding of USP7 binding sites and the development of more accurate compound screening methods. Despite these challenges, further development of USP7 inhibitors is promising as a valuable new approach for cancer treatment, including the ability to address chemoresistance.
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Affiliation(s)
- Laura D Carreira
- Laboratory of Pharmaceutical Chemistry, Faculty of Pharmacy, University of Coimbra, Coimbra, Portugal
- Center for Neuroscience and Cell Biology, University of Coimbra, Coimbra, Portugal
| | - Rita I Oliveira
- Laboratory of Pharmaceutical Chemistry, Faculty of Pharmacy, University of Coimbra, Coimbra, Portugal
- Center for Neuroscience and Cell Biology, University of Coimbra, Coimbra, Portugal
| | - Vânia M Moreira
- Laboratory of Pharmaceutical Chemistry, Faculty of Pharmacy, University of Coimbra, Coimbra, Portugal
- Center for Neuroscience and Cell Biology, University of Coimbra, Coimbra, Portugal
| | - Jorge A R Salvador
- Laboratory of Pharmaceutical Chemistry, Faculty of Pharmacy, University of Coimbra, Coimbra, Portugal
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