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Zhan J, Li X, Mu Y, Yao H, Zhu JJ, Zhang J. A photoactivatable upconverting nanodevice boosts the lysosomal escape of PROTAC degraders for enhanced combination therapy. Biomater Sci 2024; 12:3686-3699. [PMID: 38873991 DOI: 10.1039/d4bm00548a] [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: 06/15/2024]
Abstract
PROteolysis TArgeting Chimeras have received increasing attention due to their capability to induce potent degradation of various disease-related proteins. However, the effective and controlled cytosolic delivery of current small-molecule PROTACs remains a challenge, primarily due to their intrinsic shortcomings, including unfavorable solubility, poor cell permeability, and limited spatiotemporal precision. Here, we develop a near-infrared light-controlled PROTAC delivery device (abbreviated as USDPR) that allows the efficient photoactivation of PROTAC function to achieve enhanced protein degradation. The nanodevice is constructed by encapsulating the commercial BRD4-targeting PROTACs (dBET6) in the hollow cavity of mesoporous silica-coated upconversion nanoparticles, followed by coating a Rose Bengal (RB) photosensitizer conjugated poly-L-lysine (PLL-RB). This composition enables NIR light-activatable generation of cytotoxic reactive oxygen species due to the energy transfer from the UCNPs to PLL-RB, which boosts the endo/lysosomal escape and subsequent cytosolic release of dBET6. We demonstrate that USDPR is capable of effectively degrading BRD4 in a NIR light-controlled manner. This in combination with NIR light-triggered photodynamic therapy enables an enhanced antitumor effect both in vitro and in vivo. This work thus presents a versatile strategy for controlled release of PROTACs and codelivery with photosensitizers using an NIR-responsive nanodevice, providing important insight into the design of effective PROTAC-based combination therapy.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jiayin Zhan
- State Key Laboratory of Analytical Chemistry for Life Science, School of Chemistry and Chemical Engineering, Nanjing University, Nanjing 210023, China.
| | - Xiang Li
- State Key Laboratory of Analytical Chemistry for Life Science, School of Chemistry and Chemical Engineering, Nanjing University, Nanjing 210023, China.
| | - Yueru Mu
- State Key Laboratory of Analytical Chemistry for Life Science, School of Chemistry and Chemical Engineering, Nanjing University, Nanjing 210023, China.
| | - Huiqin Yao
- Department of Medical Chemistry, College of Basic Medicine, Ningxia Medical University, Yinchuan 750004, China.
| | - Jun-Jie Zhu
- State Key Laboratory of Analytical Chemistry for Life Science, School of Chemistry and Chemical Engineering, Nanjing University, Nanjing 210023, China.
| | - Jingjing Zhang
- State Key Laboratory of Analytical Chemistry for Life Science, School of Chemistry and Chemical Engineering, Nanjing University, Nanjing 210023, China.
- Chemistry and Biomedicine Innovation Center (ChemBIC), Nanjing University, Nanjing 210023, China
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2
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Lehmann T, Schneider H, Tonillo J, Schanz J, Schwarz D, Schröter C, Jäger S, Kolmar H, Hecht S, Anderl J, Rasche N, Rieker M, Dickgiesser S. Welding PROxAb Shuttles: A Modular Approach for Generating Bispecific Antibodies via Site-Specific Protein-Protein Conjugation. Bioconjug Chem 2024; 35:780-789. [PMID: 38809610 DOI: 10.1021/acs.bioconjchem.4c00124] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 05/31/2024]
Abstract
Targeted protein degradation is an innovative therapeutic strategy to selectively eliminate disease-causing proteins. Exemplified by proteolysis-targeting chimeras (PROTACs), they have shown promise in overcoming drug resistance and targeting previously undruggable proteins. However, PROTACs face challenges, such as low oral bioavailability and limited selectivity. The recently published PROxAb Shuttle technology offers a solution enabling the targeted delivery of PROTACs using antibodies fused with PROTAC-binding domains derived from camelid single-domain antibodies (VHHs). Here, a modular approach to quickly generate PROxAb Shuttles by enzymatically coupling PROTAC-binding VHHs to off-the-shelf antibodies was developed. The resulting conjugates retained their target binding and internalization properties, and incubation with BRD4-targeting PROTACs resulted in formation of defined PROxAb-PROTAC complexes. These complexes selectively induced degradation of the BRD4 protein, resulting in cytotoxicity specifically to cells expressing the antibody's target. The chemoenzymatic approach described herein provides a versatile and efficient solution for generating antibody-VHH conjugates for targeted protein degradation applications, but it could also be used to combine antibodies and VHH binders to generate bispecific antibodies for further applications.
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Affiliation(s)
- Tanja Lehmann
- Clemens-Schöpf-Institut für Organische Chemie und Biochemie, Technische Universität Darmstadt, 64287 Darmstadt, Germany
- ADCs & Targeted NBE Therapeutics, Merck KGaA, 64293 Darmstadt , Germany
| | - Hendrik Schneider
- ADCs & Targeted NBE Therapeutics, Merck KGaA, 64293 Darmstadt , Germany
| | - Jason Tonillo
- ADCs & Targeted NBE Therapeutics, Merck KGaA, 64293 Darmstadt , Germany
| | - Jennifer Schanz
- ADCs & Targeted NBE Therapeutics, Merck KGaA, 64293 Darmstadt , Germany
| | - Daniel Schwarz
- Discovery Pharmacology, Merck KGaA, 64293 Darmstadt, Germany
| | | | - Sebastian Jäger
- ADCs & Targeted NBE Therapeutics, Merck KGaA, 64293 Darmstadt , Germany
| | - Harald Kolmar
- Clemens-Schöpf-Institut für Organische Chemie und Biochemie, Technische Universität Darmstadt, 64287 Darmstadt, Germany
| | - Stefan Hecht
- ADCs & Targeted NBE Therapeutics, Merck KGaA, 64293 Darmstadt , Germany
| | - Jan Anderl
- ADCs & Targeted NBE Therapeutics, Merck KGaA, 64293 Darmstadt , Germany
| | - Nicolas Rasche
- ADCs & Targeted NBE Therapeutics, Merck KGaA, 64293 Darmstadt , Germany
| | - Marcel Rieker
- ADCs & Targeted NBE Therapeutics, Merck KGaA, 64293 Darmstadt , Germany
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Ma Y, Yang X, Ning K, Guo H. M1/M2 macrophage-targeted nanotechnology and PROTAC for the treatment of atherosclerosis. Life Sci 2024; 352:122811. [PMID: 38862062 DOI: 10.1016/j.lfs.2024.122811] [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: 01/05/2024] [Revised: 03/17/2024] [Accepted: 06/04/2024] [Indexed: 06/13/2024]
Abstract
Macrophages play key roles in atherosclerosis progression, and an imbalance in M1/M2 macrophages leads to unstable plaques; therefore, M1/M2 macrophage polarization-targeted treatments may serve as a new approach in the treatment of atherosclerosis. At present, there is little research on M1/M2 macrophage polarization-targeted nanotechnology. Proteolysis-targeting chimera (PROTAC) technology, a targeted protein degradation technology, mediates the degradation of target proteins and has been widely promoted in preclinical and clinical applications as a novel therapeutic modality. This review summarizes the recent studies on M1/M2 macrophage polarization-targeted nanotechnology, focusing on the mechanism and advantages of PROTACs in M1/M2 macrophage polarization as a new approach for the treatment of atherosclerosis.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yupeng Ma
- School of Integrative Medicine, Shanghai University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, No. 1200 Cailun Road, Shanghai 201203, China; School of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Shanghai University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, No. 1200 Cailun Road, Shanghai 201203, China
| | - Xiaofan Yang
- School of Integrative Medicine, Shanghai University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, No. 1200 Cailun Road, Shanghai 201203, China; School of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Shanghai University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, No. 1200 Cailun Road, Shanghai 201203, China
| | - Ke Ning
- School of Integrative Medicine, Shanghai University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, No. 1200 Cailun Road, Shanghai 201203, China; School of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Shanghai University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, No. 1200 Cailun Road, Shanghai 201203, China.
| | - Haidong Guo
- School of Integrative Medicine, Shanghai University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, No. 1200 Cailun Road, Shanghai 201203, China; School of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Shanghai University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, No. 1200 Cailun Road, Shanghai 201203, China.
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4
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Qiu T, Kong Y, Wei G, Sun K, Wang R, Wang Y, Chen Y, Wang W, Zhang Y, Jiang C, Yang P, Xie T, Chen X. CCDC6-RET fusion protein regulates Ras/MAPK signaling through the fusion- GRB2-SHC1 signal niche. Proc Natl Acad Sci U S A 2024; 121:e2322359121. [PMID: 38805286 PMCID: PMC11161787 DOI: 10.1073/pnas.2322359121] [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: 12/29/2023] [Accepted: 04/08/2024] [Indexed: 05/30/2024] Open
Abstract
Rearranged during transfection (RET) rearrangement oncoprotein-mediated Ras/MAPK signaling cascade is constitutively activated in cancers. Here, we demonstrate a unique signal niche. The niche is a ternary complex based on the chimeric RET liquid-liquid phase separation. The complex comprises the rearranged kinase (RET fusion); the adaptor (GRB2), and the effector (SHC1). Together, they orchestrate the Ras/MAPK signal cascade, which is dependent on tyrosine kinase. CCDC6-RET fusion undergoes LLPS requiring its kinase domain and its fusion partner. The CCDC6-RET fusion LLPS promotes the autophosphorylation of RET fusion, with enhanced kinase activity, which is necessary for the formation of the signaling niche. Within the signal niche, the interactions among the constituent components are reinforced, and the signal transduction efficiency is amplified. The specific RET fusion-related signal niche elucidates the mechanism of the constitutive activation of the Ras/MAPK signaling pathway. Beyond just focusing on RET fusion itself, exploration of the ternary complex potentially unveils a promising avenue for devising therapeutic strategies aimed at treating RET fusion-driven diseases.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ting Qiu
- School of Pharmacy, Hangzhou Normal University, Hangzhou, Zhejiang311121, China
- Key Laboratory of Elemene Class Anti-Cancer Chinese Medicines, Hangzhou Normal University, Hangzhou, Zhejiang311121, China
- Engineering Laboratory of Development and Application of Traditional Chinese Medicines, Hangzhou Normal University, Hangzhou, Zhejiang311121, China
- Collaborative Innovation Center of Traditional Chinese Medicines of Zhejiang Province, Hangzhou Normal University, Hangzhou, Zhejiang311121, China
| | - Yichao Kong
- School of Pharmacy, Hangzhou Normal University, Hangzhou, Zhejiang311121, China
- Key Laboratory of Elemene Class Anti-Cancer Chinese Medicines, Hangzhou Normal University, Hangzhou, Zhejiang311121, China
- Engineering Laboratory of Development and Application of Traditional Chinese Medicines, Hangzhou Normal University, Hangzhou, Zhejiang311121, China
- Collaborative Innovation Center of Traditional Chinese Medicines of Zhejiang Province, Hangzhou Normal University, Hangzhou, Zhejiang311121, China
| | - Guifeng Wei
- School of Pharmacy, Hangzhou Normal University, Hangzhou, Zhejiang311121, China
- Key Laboratory of Elemene Class Anti-Cancer Chinese Medicines, Hangzhou Normal University, Hangzhou, Zhejiang311121, China
- Engineering Laboratory of Development and Application of Traditional Chinese Medicines, Hangzhou Normal University, Hangzhou, Zhejiang311121, China
- Collaborative Innovation Center of Traditional Chinese Medicines of Zhejiang Province, Hangzhou Normal University, Hangzhou, Zhejiang311121, China
| | - Kai Sun
- School of Pharmacy, Hangzhou Normal University, Hangzhou, Zhejiang311121, China
- Key Laboratory of Elemene Class Anti-Cancer Chinese Medicines, Hangzhou Normal University, Hangzhou, Zhejiang311121, China
- Engineering Laboratory of Development and Application of Traditional Chinese Medicines, Hangzhou Normal University, Hangzhou, Zhejiang311121, China
- Collaborative Innovation Center of Traditional Chinese Medicines of Zhejiang Province, Hangzhou Normal University, Hangzhou, Zhejiang311121, China
| | - Ruijie Wang
- School of Pharmacy, Hangzhou Normal University, Hangzhou, Zhejiang311121, China
- Key Laboratory of Elemene Class Anti-Cancer Chinese Medicines, Hangzhou Normal University, Hangzhou, Zhejiang311121, China
- Engineering Laboratory of Development and Application of Traditional Chinese Medicines, Hangzhou Normal University, Hangzhou, Zhejiang311121, China
- Collaborative Innovation Center of Traditional Chinese Medicines of Zhejiang Province, Hangzhou Normal University, Hangzhou, Zhejiang311121, China
| | - Yang Wang
- School of Pharmacy, Hangzhou Normal University, Hangzhou, Zhejiang311121, China
- Key Laboratory of Elemene Class Anti-Cancer Chinese Medicines, Hangzhou Normal University, Hangzhou, Zhejiang311121, China
- Engineering Laboratory of Development and Application of Traditional Chinese Medicines, Hangzhou Normal University, Hangzhou, Zhejiang311121, China
- Collaborative Innovation Center of Traditional Chinese Medicines of Zhejiang Province, Hangzhou Normal University, Hangzhou, Zhejiang311121, China
| | - Yiji Chen
- School of Pharmacy, Hangzhou Normal University, Hangzhou, Zhejiang311121, China
- Key Laboratory of Elemene Class Anti-Cancer Chinese Medicines, Hangzhou Normal University, Hangzhou, Zhejiang311121, China
- Engineering Laboratory of Development and Application of Traditional Chinese Medicines, Hangzhou Normal University, Hangzhou, Zhejiang311121, China
- Collaborative Innovation Center of Traditional Chinese Medicines of Zhejiang Province, Hangzhou Normal University, Hangzhou, Zhejiang311121, China
| | - Wenxin Wang
- School of Pharmacy, Hangzhou Normal University, Hangzhou, Zhejiang311121, China
- Key Laboratory of Elemene Class Anti-Cancer Chinese Medicines, Hangzhou Normal University, Hangzhou, Zhejiang311121, China
- Engineering Laboratory of Development and Application of Traditional Chinese Medicines, Hangzhou Normal University, Hangzhou, Zhejiang311121, China
- Collaborative Innovation Center of Traditional Chinese Medicines of Zhejiang Province, Hangzhou Normal University, Hangzhou, Zhejiang311121, China
| | - Yun Zhang
- School of Pharmacy, Hangzhou Normal University, Hangzhou, Zhejiang311121, China
- Key Laboratory of Elemene Class Anti-Cancer Chinese Medicines, Hangzhou Normal University, Hangzhou, Zhejiang311121, China
- Engineering Laboratory of Development and Application of Traditional Chinese Medicines, Hangzhou Normal University, Hangzhou, Zhejiang311121, China
- Collaborative Innovation Center of Traditional Chinese Medicines of Zhejiang Province, Hangzhou Normal University, Hangzhou, Zhejiang311121, China
- School of Life Sciences, Westlake University, Hangzhou310024, China
| | - Caihong Jiang
- School of Pharmacy, Hangzhou Normal University, Hangzhou, Zhejiang311121, China
- Key Laboratory of Elemene Class Anti-Cancer Chinese Medicines, Hangzhou Normal University, Hangzhou, Zhejiang311121, China
- Engineering Laboratory of Development and Application of Traditional Chinese Medicines, Hangzhou Normal University, Hangzhou, Zhejiang311121, China
- Collaborative Innovation Center of Traditional Chinese Medicines of Zhejiang Province, Hangzhou Normal University, Hangzhou, Zhejiang311121, China
| | - Peiguo Yang
- School of Life Sciences, Westlake University, Hangzhou310024, China
| | - Tian Xie
- School of Pharmacy, Hangzhou Normal University, Hangzhou, Zhejiang311121, China
- Key Laboratory of Elemene Class Anti-Cancer Chinese Medicines, Hangzhou Normal University, Hangzhou, Zhejiang311121, China
- Engineering Laboratory of Development and Application of Traditional Chinese Medicines, Hangzhou Normal University, Hangzhou, Zhejiang311121, China
- Collaborative Innovation Center of Traditional Chinese Medicines of Zhejiang Province, Hangzhou Normal University, Hangzhou, Zhejiang311121, China
| | - Xiabin Chen
- School of Pharmacy, Hangzhou Normal University, Hangzhou, Zhejiang311121, China
- Key Laboratory of Elemene Class Anti-Cancer Chinese Medicines, Hangzhou Normal University, Hangzhou, Zhejiang311121, China
- Engineering Laboratory of Development and Application of Traditional Chinese Medicines, Hangzhou Normal University, Hangzhou, Zhejiang311121, China
- Collaborative Innovation Center of Traditional Chinese Medicines of Zhejiang Province, Hangzhou Normal University, Hangzhou, Zhejiang311121, China
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5
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Zhang Y, Jiang H, Dong M, Min J, He X, Tan Y, Liu F, Chen M, Chen X, Yin Q, Zheng L, Shao Y, Li X, Chen H. Macrophage MCT4 inhibition activates reparative genes and protects from atherosclerosis by histone H3 lysine 18 lactylation. Cell Rep 2024; 43:114180. [PMID: 38733581 DOI: 10.1016/j.celrep.2024.114180] [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: 01/23/2024] [Accepted: 04/17/2024] [Indexed: 05/13/2024] Open
Abstract
Macrophage activation is a hallmark of atherosclerosis, accompanied by a switch in core metabolism from oxidative phosphorylation to glycolysis. The crosstalk between metabolic rewiring and histone modifications in macrophages is worthy of further investigation. Here, we find that lactate efflux-associated monocarboxylate transporter 4 (MCT4)-mediated histone lactylation is closely related to atherosclerosis. Histone H3 lysine 18 lactylation dependent on MCT4 deficiency activated the transcription of anti-inflammatory genes and tricarboxylic acid cycle genes, resulting in the initiation of local repair and homeostasis. Strikingly, histone lactylation is characteristically involved in the stage-specific local repair process during M1 to M2 transformation, whereas histone methylation and acetylation are not. Gene manipulation and protein hydrolysis-targeted chimerism technology are used to confirm that MCT4 deficiency favors ameliorating atherosclerosis. Therefore, our study shows that macrophage MCT4 deficiency, which links metabolic rewiring and histone modifications, plays a key role in training macrophages to become repair and homeostasis phenotypes.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yunjia Zhang
- Department of Cardiovascular Surgery, The First Affiliated Hospital of Nanjing Medical University, and Key Laboratory of Cardiovascular and Cerebrovascular Medicine, School of Pharmacy, National Vaccine Innovation Platform, Nanjing Medical University, Nanjing, Jiangsu 211166, China
| | - Hong Jiang
- Key Laboratory of Cardiovascular and Cerebrovascular Medicine, School of Pharmacy, Nanjing Medical University, Nanjing, Jiangsu 211166, China
| | - Mengdie Dong
- Key Laboratory of Cardiovascular and Cerebrovascular Medicine, School of Pharmacy, Nanjing Medical University, Nanjing, Jiangsu 211166, China
| | - Jiao Min
- Key Laboratory of Cardiovascular and Cerebrovascular Medicine, School of Pharmacy, Nanjing Medical University, Nanjing, Jiangsu 211166, China
| | - Xian He
- Key Laboratory of Cardiovascular and Cerebrovascular Medicine, School of Pharmacy, Nanjing Medical University, Nanjing, Jiangsu 211166, China
| | - Yongkang Tan
- Key Laboratory of Cardiovascular and Cerebrovascular Medicine, School of Pharmacy, Nanjing Medical University, Nanjing, Jiangsu 211166, China
| | - Fuhao Liu
- Department of Clinical Medicine, Nanjing Medical University Tianyuan Honors School, Nanjing Medical University, Nanjing, Jiangsu 211166, China
| | - Minghong Chen
- Key Laboratory of Cardiovascular and Cerebrovascular Medicine, School of Pharmacy, Nanjing Medical University, Nanjing, Jiangsu 211166, China
| | - Xiang Chen
- Key Laboratory of Cardiovascular and Cerebrovascular Medicine, School of Pharmacy, Nanjing Medical University, Nanjing, Jiangsu 211166, China
| | - Quanwen Yin
- Key Laboratory of Cardiovascular and Cerebrovascular Medicine, School of Pharmacy, Nanjing Medical University, Nanjing, Jiangsu 211166, China
| | - Longbin Zheng
- Key Laboratory of Cardiovascular and Cerebrovascular Medicine, School of Pharmacy, Nanjing Medical University, Nanjing, Jiangsu 211166, China; Department of Anesthesiology, Sir Run Run Hospital, Nanjing Medical University, Nanjing, Jiangsu 211112, China
| | - Yongfeng Shao
- Department of Cardiovascular Surgery, The First Affiliated Hospital of Nanjing Medical University, Nanjing, Jiangsu 211166, China.
| | - Xuesong Li
- Key Laboratory of Cardiovascular and Cerebrovascular Medicine, School of Pharmacy, Nanjing Medical University, Nanjing, Jiangsu 211166, China.
| | - Hongshan Chen
- Department of Cardiovascular Surgery, The First Affiliated Hospital of Nanjing Medical University, and Key Laboratory of Cardiovascular and Cerebrovascular Medicine, School of Pharmacy, National Vaccine Innovation Platform, Nanjing Medical University, Nanjing, Jiangsu 211166, China; Key Laboratory of Targeted Intervention of Cardiovascular Disease, Collaborative Innovation Center for Cardiovascular Disease Translational Medicine, Nanjing Medical University, Nanjing, Jiangsu 211166, China.
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6
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Guo Y, Li X, Xie Y, Wang Y. What influences the activity of Degrader-Antibody conjugates (DACs). Eur J Med Chem 2024; 268:116216. [PMID: 38387330 DOI: 10.1016/j.ejmech.2024.116216] [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: 12/12/2023] [Revised: 01/23/2024] [Accepted: 02/01/2024] [Indexed: 02/24/2024]
Abstract
The targeted protein degradation (TPD) technology employing proteolysis-targeting chimeras (PROTACs) has been widely applied in drug chemistry and chemical biology for the treatment of cancer and other diseases. PROTACs have demonstrated significant advantages in targeting undruggable targets and overcoming drug resistance. However, despite the efficient degradation of targeted proteins achieved by PROTACs, they still face challenges related to selectivity between normal and cancer cells, as well as issues with poor membrane permeability due to their substantial molecular weight. Additionally, the noteworthy toxicity resulting from off-target effects also needs to be addressed. To solve these issues, Degrader-Antibody Conjugates (DACs) have been developed, leveraging the targeting and internalization capabilities of antibodies. In this review, we elucidates the characteristics and distinctions between DACs, and traditional Antibody-drug conjugates (ADCs). Meanwhile, we emphasizes the significance of DACs in facilitating the delivery of PROTACs and delves into the impact of various components on DAC activity. These components include antibody targets, drug-antibody ratio (DAR), linker types, PROTACs targets, PROTACs connections, and E3 ligase ligands. The review also explores the suitability of different targets (antibody targets or PROTACs targets) for DACs, providing insights to guide the design of PROTACs better suited for antibody conjugation.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yaolin Guo
- Department of Respiratory and Critical Care Medicine, Targeted Tracer Research and Development Laboratory, Institute of Respiratory Health, State Key Laboratory of Biotherapy, National Clinical Research Center for Geriatrics, West China Hospital, Sichuan University, Chengdu, 610041, Sichuan, China; Frontiers Medical Center, Tianfu Jincheng Laboratory, Chengdu, 610212, Sichuan, China
| | - Xiaoxue Li
- Department of Dermatology, West China Hospital, Sichuan University, Chengdu, 610041, Sichuan, China
| | - Yang Xie
- Frontiers Medical Center, Tianfu Jincheng Laboratory, Chengdu, 610212, Sichuan, China
| | - Yuxi Wang
- Department of Respiratory and Critical Care Medicine, Targeted Tracer Research and Development Laboratory, Institute of Respiratory Health, State Key Laboratory of Biotherapy, National Clinical Research Center for Geriatrics, West China Hospital, Sichuan University, Chengdu, 610041, Sichuan, China; Frontiers Medical Center, Tianfu Jincheng Laboratory, Chengdu, 610212, Sichuan, China.
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7
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Du S, Hu X, Liu X, Zhan P. Revolutionizing viral disease treatment: Phase separation and lysosome/exosome targeting as new areas and new paradigms for antiviral drug research. Drug Discov Today 2024; 29:103888. [PMID: 38244674 DOI: 10.1016/j.drudis.2024.103888] [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: 12/26/2023] [Accepted: 01/14/2024] [Indexed: 01/22/2024]
Abstract
With the advancement of globalization, our world is becoming increasingly interconnected. However, this interconnection means that once an infectious disease emerges, it can rapidly spread worldwide. Specifically, viral diseases pose a growing threat to human health. The COVID-19 pandemic has underscored the pressing need for expedited drug development to combat emerging viral diseases. Traditional drug discovery methods primarily rely on random screening and structure-based optimization, and new approaches are required to address more complex scenarios in drug discovery. Emerging antiviral strategies include phase separation and lysosome/exosome targeting. The widespread implementation of these innovative drug design strategies will contribute towards tackling existing viral infections and future outbreaks.
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Affiliation(s)
- Shaoqing Du
- Department of Medicinal Chemistry, Key Laboratory of Chemical Biology (Ministry of Education), School of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Cheeloo College of Medicine, Shandong University, 250012 Jinan, Shandong, PR China
| | - Xueping Hu
- Institute of Frontier Chemistry, School of Chemistry and Chemical Engineering, Shandong University, Qingdao, 266237, PR China
| | - Xinyong Liu
- Department of Medicinal Chemistry, Key Laboratory of Chemical Biology (Ministry of Education), School of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Cheeloo College of Medicine, Shandong University, 250012 Jinan, Shandong, PR China; China-Belgium Collaborative Research Center for Innovative Antiviral Drugs of Shandong Province, 250012 Jinan, Shandong, PR China.
| | - Peng Zhan
- Department of Medicinal Chemistry, Key Laboratory of Chemical Biology (Ministry of Education), School of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Cheeloo College of Medicine, Shandong University, 250012 Jinan, Shandong, PR China; China-Belgium Collaborative Research Center for Innovative Antiviral Drugs of Shandong Province, 250012 Jinan, Shandong, PR China.
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8
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Liu Y, Feng W, Wang Y, Wu B. Crosstalk between protein post-translational modifications and phase separation. Cell Commun Signal 2024; 22:110. [PMID: 38347544 PMCID: PMC10860296 DOI: 10.1186/s12964-023-01380-1] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/15/2023] [Accepted: 11/02/2023] [Indexed: 02/15/2024] Open
Abstract
The phenomenon of phase separation is quite common in cells, and it is involved in multiple processes of life activities. However, the current research on the correlation between protein modifications and phase separation and the interference with the tendency of phase separation has some limitations. Here we focus on several post-translational modifications of proteins, including protein phosphorylation modification at multiple sites, methylation modification, acetylation modification, ubiquitination modification, SUMOylation modification, etc., which regulate the formation of phase separation and the stability of phase separation structure through multivalent interactions. This regulatory role is closely related to the development of neurodegenerative diseases, tumors, viral infections, and other diseases, and also plays essential functions in environmental stress, DNA damage repair, transcriptional regulation, signal transduction, and cell homeostasis of living organisms, which provides an idea to explore the interaction between novel protein post-translational modifications and phase separation. Video Abstract.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yang Liu
- Jinan Central Hospital, Cheeloo College of Medicine, Shandong University, Jinan, China
| | - Wenjuan Feng
- Department of Reproductive Medicine, Central Hospital Affiliated to Shandong First Medical University, Jinan, China
| | - Yunshan Wang
- Jinan Central Hospital, Cheeloo College of Medicine, Shandong University, Jinan, China.
- Basic Medical Research Center, Central Hospital Affiliated to Shandong First Medical University, Jinan, China.
| | - Bin Wu
- Jinan Central Hospital, Cheeloo College of Medicine, Shandong University, Jinan, China.
- Department of Reproductive Medicine, Central Hospital Affiliated to Shandong First Medical University, Jinan, China.
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9
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Dai XJ, Ji SK, Fu MJ, Liu GZ, Liu HM, Wang SP, Shen L, Wang N, Herdewijn P, Zheng YC, Wang SQ, Chen XB. Degraders in epigenetic therapy: PROTACs and beyond. Theranostics 2024; 14:1464-1499. [PMID: 38389844 PMCID: PMC10879860 DOI: 10.7150/thno.92526] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/23/2023] [Accepted: 01/21/2024] [Indexed: 02/24/2024] Open
Abstract
Epigenetics refers to the reversible process through which changes in gene expression occur without changing the nucleotide sequence of DNA. The process is currently gaining prominence as a pivotal objective in the treatment of cancers and other ailments. Numerous drugs that target epigenetic mechanisms have obtained approval from the Food and Drug Administration (FDA) for the therapeutic intervention of diverse diseases; many have drawbacks, such as limited applicability, toxicity, and resistance. Since the discovery of the first proteolysis-targeting chimeras (PROTACs) in 2001, studies on targeted protein degradation (TPD)-encompassing PROTACs, molecular glue (MG), hydrophobic tagging (HyT), degradation TAG (dTAG), Trim-Away, a specific and non-genetic inhibitor of apoptosis protein (IAP)-dependent protein eraser (SNIPER), antibody-PROTACs (Ab-PROTACs), and other lysosome-based strategies-have achieved remarkable progress. In this review, we comprehensively highlight the small-molecule degraders beyond PROTACs that could achieve the degradation of epigenetic proteins (including bromodomain-containing protein-related targets, histone acetylation/deacetylation-related targets, histone methylation/demethylation related targets, and other epigenetic targets) via proteasomal or lysosomal pathways. The present difficulties and forthcoming prospects in this domain are also deliberated upon, which may be valuable for medicinal chemists when developing more potent, selective, and drug-like epigenetic drugs for clinical applications.
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Affiliation(s)
- Xing-Jie Dai
- Key Laboratory of Advanced Drug Preparation Technologies, Ministry of Education, China; State Key Laboratory of Esophageal Cancer Prevention & Treatment; Key Laboratory of Henan Province for Drug Quality and Evaluation; Institute of Drug Discovery and Development; School of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Zhengzhou University, Zhengzhou, China
| | - Shi-Kun Ji
- Key Laboratory of Advanced Drug Preparation Technologies, Ministry of Education, China; State Key Laboratory of Esophageal Cancer Prevention & Treatment; Key Laboratory of Henan Province for Drug Quality and Evaluation; Institute of Drug Discovery and Development; School of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Zhengzhou University, Zhengzhou, China
| | - Meng-Jie Fu
- Key Laboratory of Advanced Drug Preparation Technologies, Ministry of Education, China; State Key Laboratory of Esophageal Cancer Prevention & Treatment; Key Laboratory of Henan Province for Drug Quality and Evaluation; Institute of Drug Discovery and Development; School of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Zhengzhou University, Zhengzhou, China
| | - Gao-Zhi Liu
- Key Laboratory of Advanced Drug Preparation Technologies, Ministry of Education, China; State Key Laboratory of Esophageal Cancer Prevention & Treatment; Key Laboratory of Henan Province for Drug Quality and Evaluation; Institute of Drug Discovery and Development; School of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Zhengzhou University, Zhengzhou, China
| | - Hui-Min Liu
- Key Laboratory of Advanced Drug Preparation Technologies, Ministry of Education, China; State Key Laboratory of Esophageal Cancer Prevention & Treatment; Key Laboratory of Henan Province for Drug Quality and Evaluation; Institute of Drug Discovery and Development; School of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Zhengzhou University, Zhengzhou, China
| | - Shao-Peng Wang
- Key Laboratory of Advanced Drug Preparation Technologies, Ministry of Education, China; State Key Laboratory of Esophageal Cancer Prevention & Treatment; Key Laboratory of Henan Province for Drug Quality and Evaluation; Institute of Drug Discovery and Development; School of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Zhengzhou University, Zhengzhou, China
| | - Liang Shen
- Key Laboratory of Advanced Drug Preparation Technologies, Ministry of Education, China; State Key Laboratory of Esophageal Cancer Prevention & Treatment; Key Laboratory of Henan Province for Drug Quality and Evaluation; Institute of Drug Discovery and Development; School of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Zhengzhou University, Zhengzhou, China
| | - Ning Wang
- The School of Chinese Medicine, The University of Hong Kong, Pokfulam, Hong Kong, China
| | - Piet Herdewijn
- Key Laboratory of Advanced Drug Preparation Technologies, Ministry of Education, China; State Key Laboratory of Esophageal Cancer Prevention & Treatment; Key Laboratory of Henan Province for Drug Quality and Evaluation; Institute of Drug Discovery and Development; School of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Zhengzhou University, Zhengzhou, China
- XNA platform, School of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Zhengzhou University, Zhengzhou, China
- Rega Institute for Medical Research, Medicinal Chemistry, KU Leuven, Herestraat 49-Box 1041, 3000 Leuven, Belgium
| | - Yi-Chao Zheng
- Key Laboratory of Advanced Drug Preparation Technologies, Ministry of Education, China; State Key Laboratory of Esophageal Cancer Prevention & Treatment; Key Laboratory of Henan Province for Drug Quality and Evaluation; Institute of Drug Discovery and Development; School of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Zhengzhou University, Zhengzhou, China
- XNA platform, School of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Zhengzhou University, Zhengzhou, China
| | - Sai-Qi Wang
- Department of Oncology, the Affiliated Cancer Hospital of Zhengzhou University & Henan Cancer Hospital, Zhengzhou University, Zhengzhou, China
- Department of Oncology, the Affiliated Cancer Hospital of Zhengzhou University & Henan Cancer Hospital, Henan Engineering Research Center of Precision Therapy of Gastrointestinal Cancer & Zhengzhou Key Laboratory for Precision Therapy of Gastrointestinal Cancer, Zhengzhou, China
| | - Xiao-Bing Chen
- Department of Oncology, the Affiliated Cancer Hospital of Zhengzhou University & Henan Cancer Hospital, Zhengzhou University, Zhengzhou, China
- Department of Oncology, the Affiliated Cancer Hospital of Zhengzhou University & Henan Cancer Hospital, Henan Engineering Research Center of Precision Therapy of Gastrointestinal Cancer & Zhengzhou Key Laboratory for Precision Therapy of Gastrointestinal Cancer, Zhengzhou, China
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10
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Zheng LW, Liu CC, Yu KD. Phase separations in oncogenesis, tumor progressions and metastasis: a glance from hallmarks of cancer. J Hematol Oncol 2023; 16:123. [PMID: 38110976 PMCID: PMC10726551 DOI: 10.1186/s13045-023-01522-5] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/07/2023] [Accepted: 12/12/2023] [Indexed: 12/20/2023] Open
Abstract
Liquid-liquid phase separation (LLPS) is a novel principle for interpreting precise spatiotemporal coordination in living cells through biomolecular condensate (BMC) formation via dynamic aggregation. LLPS changes individual molecules into membrane-free, droplet-like BMCs with specific functions, which coordinate various cellular activities. The formation and regulation of LLPS are closely associated with oncogenesis, tumor progressions and metastasis, the specific roles and mechanisms of LLPS in tumors still need to be further investigated at present. In this review, we comprehensively summarize the conditions of LLPS and identify mechanisms involved in abnormal LLPS in cancer processes, including tumor growth, metastasis, and angiogenesis from the perspective of cancer hallmarks. We have also reviewed the clinical applications of LLPS in oncologic areas. This systematic summary of dysregulated LLPS from the different dimensions of cancer hallmarks will build a bridge for determining its specific functions to further guide basic research, finding strategies to intervene in LLPS, and developing relevant therapeutic approaches.
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Affiliation(s)
- Le-Wei Zheng
- Department of Breast Surgery, Department of Oncology, Key Laboratory of Breast Cancer in Shanghai, Cancer Institute, Fudan University Shanghai Cancer Center, Shanghai Medical College, Fudan University, Shanghai, 200032, China
| | - Cui-Cui Liu
- Department of Breast Surgery, Department of Oncology, Key Laboratory of Breast Cancer in Shanghai, Cancer Institute, Fudan University Shanghai Cancer Center, Shanghai Medical College, Fudan University, Shanghai, 200032, China
| | - Ke-Da Yu
- Department of Breast Surgery, Department of Oncology, Key Laboratory of Breast Cancer in Shanghai, Cancer Institute, Fudan University Shanghai Cancer Center, Shanghai Medical College, Fudan University, Shanghai, 200032, China.
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11
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Rani AQ, Bonam SR, Zhou J, Li J, Hu H, Liu X. BRD4 as a potential target for human papillomaviruses associated cancer. J Med Virol 2023; 95:e29294. [PMID: 38100650 DOI: 10.1002/jmv.29294] [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: 10/14/2023] [Revised: 11/20/2023] [Accepted: 11/21/2023] [Indexed: 12/17/2023]
Abstract
Around 99% of cervical cancer and 5%-10% of human cancer are associated with human papillomaviruses (HPV). Notably, the life-cycle of HPV begins by low-level infection of the basal cells of the stratified epithelium, where the viral genomes are replicated and passed on to the daughter proliferating basal cells. The production of new viral particles remains restricted to eventually differentiated cells. HPVs support their persistent infectious cycle by hijacking pivotal pathways and cellular processes. Bromodomain-containing protein 4 (BRD4) is one of the essential cellular factors involved in multiple stages of viral transcription and replication. In this review, we demonstrate the role of BRD4 in the multiple stages of HPV infectious cycle. Also, we provide an overview of the intense research about the cellular functions of BRD4, the mechanism of action of bromodomain and extra terminal inhibitors, and how it could lead to the development of antiviral/anticancer therapies.
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Affiliation(s)
- Abdul Qawee Rani
- Comprehensive Cancer Center, Ohio State University, Columbus, Ohio, USA
| | - Srinivasa Reddy Bonam
- Department of Microbiology and Immunology, University of Texas Medical Branch (UTMB), Galveston, Texas, USA
| | - Jia Zhou
- Department of Pharmacology and Toxicology, University of Texas Medical Branch (UTMB), Galveston, Texas, USA
| | - Jenny Li
- Comprehensive Cancer Center, Ohio State University, Columbus, Ohio, USA
| | - Haitao Hu
- Department of Microbiology and Immunology, University of Texas Medical Branch (UTMB), Galveston, Texas, USA
| | - Xuefeng Liu
- Comprehensive Cancer Center, Ohio State University, Columbus, Ohio, USA
- Departments of Pathology, Urology and Radiation Oncology, Wexner Medical Center, Ohio State University, Columbus, Ohio, USA
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12
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Cai Z, Mei S, Zhou L, Ma X, Wuyun Q, Yan J, Ding H. Liquid-Liquid Phase Separation Sheds New Light upon Cardiovascular Diseases. Int J Mol Sci 2023; 24:15418. [PMID: 37895097 PMCID: PMC10607581 DOI: 10.3390/ijms242015418] [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: 10/02/2023] [Revised: 10/19/2023] [Accepted: 10/19/2023] [Indexed: 10/29/2023] Open
Abstract
Liquid-liquid phase separation (LLPS) is a biophysical process that mediates the precise and complex spatiotemporal coordination of cellular processes. Proteins and nucleic acids are compartmentalized into micron-scale membrane-less droplets via LLPS. These droplets, termed biomolecular condensates, are highly dynamic, have concentrated components, and perform specific functions. Biomolecular condensates have been observed to organize diverse key biological processes, including gene transcription, signal transduction, DNA damage repair, chromatin organization, and autophagy. The dysregulation of these biological activities owing to aberrant LLPS is important in cardiovascular diseases. This review provides a detailed overview of the regulation and functions of biomolecular condensates, provides a comprehensive depiction of LLPS in several common cardiovascular diseases, and discusses the revolutionary therapeutic perspective of modulating LLPS in cardiovascular diseases and new treatment strategies relevant to LLPS.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ziyang Cai
- Division of Cardiology, Departments of Internal Medicine, Tongji Hospital, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan 430030, China; (Z.C.); (S.M.); (L.Z.); (X.M.); (Q.W.)
- Hubei Key Laboratory of Genetics and Molecular Mechanisms of Cardiological Disorders, Wuhan 430030, China
| | - Shuai Mei
- Division of Cardiology, Departments of Internal Medicine, Tongji Hospital, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan 430030, China; (Z.C.); (S.M.); (L.Z.); (X.M.); (Q.W.)
- Hubei Key Laboratory of Genetics and Molecular Mechanisms of Cardiological Disorders, Wuhan 430030, China
| | - Li Zhou
- Division of Cardiology, Departments of Internal Medicine, Tongji Hospital, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan 430030, China; (Z.C.); (S.M.); (L.Z.); (X.M.); (Q.W.)
- Hubei Key Laboratory of Genetics and Molecular Mechanisms of Cardiological Disorders, Wuhan 430030, China
| | - Xiaozhu Ma
- Division of Cardiology, Departments of Internal Medicine, Tongji Hospital, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan 430030, China; (Z.C.); (S.M.); (L.Z.); (X.M.); (Q.W.)
- Hubei Key Laboratory of Genetics and Molecular Mechanisms of Cardiological Disorders, Wuhan 430030, China
| | - Qidamugai Wuyun
- Division of Cardiology, Departments of Internal Medicine, Tongji Hospital, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan 430030, China; (Z.C.); (S.M.); (L.Z.); (X.M.); (Q.W.)
- Hubei Key Laboratory of Genetics and Molecular Mechanisms of Cardiological Disorders, Wuhan 430030, China
| | - Jiangtao Yan
- Division of Cardiology, Departments of Internal Medicine, Tongji Hospital, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan 430030, China; (Z.C.); (S.M.); (L.Z.); (X.M.); (Q.W.)
- Hubei Key Laboratory of Genetics and Molecular Mechanisms of Cardiological Disorders, Wuhan 430030, China
- Genetic Diagnosis Center, Tongji Hospital, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan 430030, China
| | - Hu Ding
- Division of Cardiology, Departments of Internal Medicine, Tongji Hospital, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan 430030, China; (Z.C.); (S.M.); (L.Z.); (X.M.); (Q.W.)
- Hubei Key Laboratory of Genetics and Molecular Mechanisms of Cardiological Disorders, Wuhan 430030, China
- Genetic Diagnosis Center, Tongji Hospital, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan 430030, China
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13
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Etibor TA, O’Riain A, Alenquer M, Diwo C, Vale-Costa S, Amorim MJ. Challenges in Imaging Analyses of Biomolecular Condensates in Cells Infected with Influenza A Virus. Int J Mol Sci 2023; 24:15253. [PMID: 37894933 PMCID: PMC10607852 DOI: 10.3390/ijms242015253] [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: 08/04/2023] [Revised: 10/11/2023] [Accepted: 10/13/2023] [Indexed: 10/29/2023] Open
Abstract
Biomolecular condensates are crucial compartments within cells, relying on their material properties for function. They form and persist through weak, transient interactions, often undetectable by classical biochemical approaches. Hence, microscopy-based techniques have been the most reliable methods to detail the molecular mechanisms controlling their formation, material properties, and alterations, including dissolution or phase transitions due to cellular manipulation and disease, and to search for novel therapeutic strategies targeting biomolecular condensates. However, technical challenges in microscopy-based analysis persist. This paper discusses imaging, data acquisition, and analytical methodologies' advantages, challenges, and limitations in determining biophysical parameters explaining biomolecular condensate formation, dissolution, and phase transitions. In addition, we mention how machine learning is increasingly important for efficient image analysis, teaching programs what a condensate should resemble, aiding in the correlation and interpretation of information from diverse data sources. Influenza A virus forms liquid viral inclusions in the infected cell cytosol that serve as model biomolecular condensates for this study. Our previous work showcased the possibility of hardening these liquid inclusions, potentially leading to novel antiviral strategies. This was established using a framework involving live cell imaging to measure dynamics, internal rearrangement capacity, coalescence, and relaxation time. Additionally, we integrated thermodynamic characteristics by analysing fixed images through Z-projections. The aforementioned paper laid the foundation for this subsequent technical paper, which explores how different modalities in data acquisition and processing impact the robustness of results to detect bona fide phase transitions by measuring thermodynamic traits in fixed cells. Using solely this approach would greatly simplify screening pipelines. For this, we tested how single focal plane images, Z-projections, or volumetric analyses of images stained with antibodies or live tagged proteins altered the quantification of thermodynamic measurements. Customizing methodologies for different biomolecular condensates through advanced bioimaging significantly contributes to biological research and potential therapeutic advancements.
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Affiliation(s)
- Temitope Akhigbe Etibor
- Cell Biology of Viral Infection Lab (CBV), Instituto Gulbenkian de Ciência (IGC), Fundação Calouste Gulbenkian, R. Quinta Grande, 6, 2780-156 Oeiras, Portugal; (T.A.E.); (A.O.); (M.A.); (C.D.); (S.V.-C.)
| | - Aidan O’Riain
- Cell Biology of Viral Infection Lab (CBV), Instituto Gulbenkian de Ciência (IGC), Fundação Calouste Gulbenkian, R. Quinta Grande, 6, 2780-156 Oeiras, Portugal; (T.A.E.); (A.O.); (M.A.); (C.D.); (S.V.-C.)
| | - Marta Alenquer
- Cell Biology of Viral Infection Lab (CBV), Instituto Gulbenkian de Ciência (IGC), Fundação Calouste Gulbenkian, R. Quinta Grande, 6, 2780-156 Oeiras, Portugal; (T.A.E.); (A.O.); (M.A.); (C.D.); (S.V.-C.)
- Cell Biology of Viral Infection Lab (CBV), Católica Biomedical Research Centre (CBR), Católica Medical School, Universidade Católica Portuguesa, Palma de Cima, 1649-023 Lisboa, Portugal
| | - Christian Diwo
- Cell Biology of Viral Infection Lab (CBV), Instituto Gulbenkian de Ciência (IGC), Fundação Calouste Gulbenkian, R. Quinta Grande, 6, 2780-156 Oeiras, Portugal; (T.A.E.); (A.O.); (M.A.); (C.D.); (S.V.-C.)
| | - Sílvia Vale-Costa
- Cell Biology of Viral Infection Lab (CBV), Instituto Gulbenkian de Ciência (IGC), Fundação Calouste Gulbenkian, R. Quinta Grande, 6, 2780-156 Oeiras, Portugal; (T.A.E.); (A.O.); (M.A.); (C.D.); (S.V.-C.)
| | - Maria João Amorim
- Cell Biology of Viral Infection Lab (CBV), Instituto Gulbenkian de Ciência (IGC), Fundação Calouste Gulbenkian, R. Quinta Grande, 6, 2780-156 Oeiras, Portugal; (T.A.E.); (A.O.); (M.A.); (C.D.); (S.V.-C.)
- Cell Biology of Viral Infection Lab (CBV), Católica Biomedical Research Centre (CBR), Católica Medical School, Universidade Católica Portuguesa, Palma de Cima, 1649-023 Lisboa, Portugal
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14
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Zhang S, Pei G, Li B, Li P, Lin Y. Abnormal phase separation of biomacromolecules in human diseases. Acta Biochim Biophys Sin (Shanghai) 2023; 55:1133-1152. [PMID: 37475546 PMCID: PMC10423695 DOI: 10.3724/abbs.2023139] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/25/2023] [Accepted: 07/07/2023] [Indexed: 07/22/2023] Open
Abstract
Membrane-less organelles (MLOs) formed through liquid-liquid phase separation (LLPS) are associated with numerous important biological functions, but the abnormal phase separation will also dysregulate the physiological processes. Emerging evidence points to the importance of LLPS in human health and diseases. Nevertheless, despite recent advancements, our knowledge of the molecular relationship between LLPS and diseases is frequently incomplete. In this review, we outline our current understanding about how aberrant LLPS affects developmental disorders, tandem repeat disorders, cancers and viral infection. We also examine disease mechanisms driven by aberrant condensates, and highlight potential treatment approaches. This study seeks to expand our understanding of LLPS by providing a valuable new paradigm for understanding phase separation and human disorders, as well as to further translate our current knowledge regarding LLPS into therapeutic discoveries.
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Affiliation(s)
- Songhao Zhang
- State Key Laboratory of Membrane BiologyTsinghua University-Peking University Joint Centre for Life SciencesSchool of Life SciencesTsinghua UniversityBeijing100084China
- IDG/McGovern Institute for Brain Research at Tsinghua UniversityBeijing100084China
| | - Gaofeng Pei
- State Key Laboratory of Membrane BiologyTsinghua University-Peking University Joint Centre for Life SciencesSchool of Life SciencesTsinghua UniversityBeijing100084China
- Frontier Research Center for Biological StructureTsinghua UniversityBeijing100084China
| | - Boya Li
- State Key Laboratory of Membrane BiologyTsinghua University-Peking University Joint Centre for Life SciencesSchool of Life SciencesTsinghua UniversityBeijing100084China
- IDG/McGovern Institute for Brain Research at Tsinghua UniversityBeijing100084China
| | - Pilong Li
- State Key Laboratory of Membrane BiologyTsinghua University-Peking University Joint Centre for Life SciencesSchool of Life SciencesTsinghua UniversityBeijing100084China
- Frontier Research Center for Biological StructureTsinghua UniversityBeijing100084China
| | - Yi Lin
- State Key Laboratory of Membrane BiologyTsinghua University-Peking University Joint Centre for Life SciencesSchool of Life SciencesTsinghua UniversityBeijing100084China
- IDG/McGovern Institute for Brain Research at Tsinghua UniversityBeijing100084China
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15
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Zhang M, Li Y, Zhang Z, Zhang X, Wang W, Song X, Zhang D. BRD4 Protein as a Target for Lung Cancer and Hematological Cancer Therapy: A Review. Curr Drug Targets 2023; 24:1079-1092. [PMID: 37846578 DOI: 10.2174/0113894501269090231012090351] [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: 06/28/2023] [Revised: 08/30/2023] [Accepted: 09/15/2023] [Indexed: 10/18/2023]
Abstract
The BET protein family plays a crucial role in regulating the epigenetic landscape of the genome. Their role in regulating tumor-related gene expression and its impact on the survival of tumor cells is widely acknowledged. Among the BET family constituents, BRD4 is a significant protein. It is a bromodomain-containing protein located at the outer terminal that recognizes histones that have undergone acetylation. It is present in the promoter or enhancer region of the target gene and is responsible for initiating and sustaining the expression of genes associated with tumorigenesis. BRD4 expression is significantly elevated in various tumor types. Research has indicated that BRD4 plays a significant role in regulating various transcription factors and chromatin modification, as well as in repairing DNA damage and preserving telomere function, ultimately contributing to the survival of cancerous cells. The protein BRD4 has a significant impact on antitumor therapy, particularly in the management of lung cancer and hematological malignancies, and the promising potential of BRD4 inhibitors in the realm of cancer prevention and treatment is a topic of great interest. Therefore, BRD4 is considered a promising candidate for prophylaxis and therapy of neoplastic diseases. However, further research is required to fully comprehend the significance and indispensability of BRD4 in cancer and its potential as a therapeutic target.
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Affiliation(s)
- Mengmeng Zhang
- College of Humanities and Management, Shaanxi University of Chinese Medicine, Xianyang, Shaanxi, 712046, P.R. China
| | - Yingbo Li
- College of Humanities and Management, Shaanxi University of Chinese Medicine, Xianyang, Shaanxi, 712046, P.R. China
| | - Zilong Zhang
- School of Pharmacy, Shaanxi University of Chinese Medicine, Xianyang, Shaanxi, 712046, P.R. China
| | - Xin Zhang
- School of Pharmacy, Shaanxi University of Chinese Medicine, Xianyang, Shaanxi, 712046, P.R. China
| | - Wei Wang
- School of Pharmacy, Shaanxi University of Chinese Medicine, Xianyang, Shaanxi, 712046, P.R. China
| | - Xiaomei Song
- School of Pharmacy, Shaanxi University of Chinese Medicine, Xianyang, Shaanxi, 712046, P.R. China
| | - Dongdong Zhang
- School of Pharmacy, Shaanxi University of Chinese Medicine, Xianyang, Shaanxi, 712046, P.R. China
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