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Hu Z, Martí J. Isomer-sourced structure iteration methods for in silico development of inhibitors: Inducing GTP-bound NRAS-Q61 oncogenic mutations to an "off-like" state. Comput Struct Biotechnol J 2024; 23:2418-2428. [PMID: 38882681 PMCID: PMC11176632 DOI: 10.1016/j.csbj.2024.05.038] [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: 03/25/2024] [Revised: 05/20/2024] [Accepted: 05/21/2024] [Indexed: 06/18/2024] Open
Abstract
The NRAS-mutant subset of melanoma represent some of the most aggressive and deadliest types associated with poor overall survival. Unfortunately, for more than 40 years, no therapeutic agent directly targeting NRAS mutations has been clinically approved. In this work, based on microsecond scale molecular dynamics simulations, the effect of Q61 mutations on NRAS conformational characteristics is revealed at the atomic level. The GTP-bound NRAS-Q61R and Q61K mutations show a specific targetable pocket between Switch-II and α-helix 3 whereas the NRAS-Q61L non-polar mutation category shows a different targetable pocket. Moreover, a new isomer-sourced structure iteration method has been developed for the in silico design of potential inhibitor prototypes for oncogenes. We show the possibility of a designed prototype HM-387 to target activated NRAS-Q61R and that it can gradually induce the transition from the activated NRAS-Q61R to an "off-like" state.
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Affiliation(s)
- Zheyao Hu
- Department of Physics, Polytechnic University of Catalonia-Barcelona Tech, B4-B5 Northern Campus UPC, Barcelona, 08034, Catalonia, Spain
| | - Jordi Martí
- Department of Physics, Polytechnic University of Catalonia-Barcelona Tech, B4-B5 Northern Campus UPC, Barcelona, 08034, Catalonia, Spain
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2
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Linscott MP, Ren JR, Gestl SA, Gunther EJ. Different Oncogenes and Reproductive Histories Shape the Progression of Distinct Premalignant Clones in Multistage Mouse Breast Cancer Models. THE AMERICAN JOURNAL OF PATHOLOGY 2024; 194:1329-1345. [PMID: 38537934 PMCID: PMC11220927 DOI: 10.1016/j.ajpath.2024.02.018] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/13/2023] [Revised: 02/06/2024] [Accepted: 02/16/2024] [Indexed: 04/10/2024]
Abstract
A remote carcinogen exposure can predispose to breast cancer onset decades later, suggesting that carcinogen-induced mutations generate long-lived premalignant clones. How subsequent events influence the progression of specific premalignant clones remains poorly understood. Herein, multistage mouse models of mammary carcinogenesis were generated by combining chemical carcinogen exposure [using 7,12-dimethylbenzanthracene (DMBA)] with transgenes that enable inducible expression of one of two clinically relevant mammary oncogenes: c-MYC (MYC) or PIK3CAH1047R (PIK). In prior work, DMBA exposure generated mammary clones bearing signature HrasQ61L mutations, which only progressed to mammary cancer after inducible Wnt1 oncogene expression. Here, after an identical DMBA exposure, MYC versus PIK drove cancer progression from mammary clones bearing mutations in distinct Ras family paralogs. For example, MYC drove cancer progression from either Kras- or Nras-mutant clones, whereas PIK transformed Kras-mutant clones only. These Ras mutation patterns were maintained whether oncogenic transgenes were induced within days of DMBA exposure or months later. Completing a full-term pregnancy (parity) failed to protect against either MYC- or PIK-driven tumor progression. Instead, a postpartum increase in mammary tumor predisposition was observed in the context of PIK-driven progression. However, parity decreased the overall prevalence of tumors bearing Krasmut, and the magnitude of this decrease depended on both the number and timing of pregnancies. These multistage models may be useful for elucidating biological features of premalignant mammary neoplasia.
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Affiliation(s)
- Maryknoll P Linscott
- The Jake Gittlen Laboratories for Cancer Research, Pennsylvania State University College of Medicine, Hershey, Pennsylvania; Penn State Hershey Cancer Institute, Pennsylvania State University College of Medicine, Hershey, Pennsylvania
| | - Jerry R Ren
- The Jake Gittlen Laboratories for Cancer Research, Pennsylvania State University College of Medicine, Hershey, Pennsylvania; Penn State Hershey Cancer Institute, Pennsylvania State University College of Medicine, Hershey, Pennsylvania
| | - Shelley A Gestl
- The Jake Gittlen Laboratories for Cancer Research, Pennsylvania State University College of Medicine, Hershey, Pennsylvania; Penn State Hershey Cancer Institute, Pennsylvania State University College of Medicine, Hershey, Pennsylvania
| | - Edward J Gunther
- The Jake Gittlen Laboratories for Cancer Research, Pennsylvania State University College of Medicine, Hershey, Pennsylvania; Penn State Hershey Cancer Institute, Pennsylvania State University College of Medicine, Hershey, Pennsylvania; Department of Medicine, Pennsylvania State University College of Medicine, Hershey, Pennsylvania.
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3
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Witherspoon JG, Hall JR, Jima D, Atkins HM, Wamsley NT, Major MB, Weissman BE, Smart RC. Mutant Nrf2 E79Q enhances the promotion and progression of a subset of oncogenic Ras keratinocytes and skin tumors. Redox Biol 2024; 75:103261. [PMID: 38963974 DOI: 10.1016/j.redox.2024.103261] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/29/2024] [Revised: 06/27/2024] [Accepted: 06/28/2024] [Indexed: 07/06/2024] Open
Abstract
Squamous cell carcinomas (SCCs), including lung, head & neck, bladder, and skin SCCs often display constitutive activation of the KEAP1-NRF2 pathway. Constitutive activation is achieved through multiple mechanisms, including activating mutations in NFE2L2 (NRF2). To determine the functional consequences of Nrf2 activation on skin SCC development, we assessed the effects of mutant Nrf2E79Q expression, one of the most common activating mutations in human SCCs, on tumor promotion and progression in the mouse skin multistage carcinogenesis model using a DMBA-initiation/TPA-promotion protocol where the Hras A->T mutation (Q61L) is the canonical driver mutation. Nrf2E79Q expression was temporally and conditionally activated in the epidermis at two stages of tumor development: 1) after DMBA initiation in the epidermis but before cutaneous tumor development and 2) in pre-existing DMBA-initiated/TPA-promoted squamous papillomas. Expression of Nrf2E79Q in the epidermis after DMBA initiation but before tumor occurrence inhibited the development/promotion of 70% of squamous papillomas. However, the remaining papillomas often displayed non-canonical Hras and Kras mutations and enhanced progression to SCCs compared to control mice expressing wildtype Nrf2. Nrf2E79Q expression in pre-existing tumors caused rapid regression of 60% of papillomas. The remaining papillomas displayed the expected canonical Hras A->T mutation (Q61L) and enhanced progression to SCCs. These results demonstrate that mutant Nrf2E79Q enhances the promotion and progression of a subset of skin tumors and alters the frequency and diversity of oncogenic Ras mutations when expressed early after initiation.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Jonathan R Hall
- Department of Biological Sciences, North Carolina State University, USA; Toxicology Graduate Program, North Carolina State University, USA; Center for Human Health and the Environment, North Carolina State University, USA
| | - Dereje Jima
- Center for Human Health and the Environment, North Carolina State University, USA
| | - Hannah M Atkins
- Center for Human Health and the Environment, North Carolina State University, USA; Lineberger Comprehensive Cancer Center, University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill School of Medicine, USA
| | - Nathan T Wamsley
- Department of Cell Biology and Physiology, Washington University at St Louis, USA
| | - Michael B Major
- Department of Cell Biology and Physiology, Washington University at St Louis, USA
| | - Bernard E Weissman
- Department of Pathology and Laboratory Medicine, University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill School of Medicine, USA; Lineberger Comprehensive Cancer Center, University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill School of Medicine, USA.
| | - Robert C Smart
- Department of Biological Sciences, North Carolina State University, USA; Toxicology Graduate Program, North Carolina State University, USA; Center for Human Health and the Environment, North Carolina State University, USA.
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4
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Fey SK, Vaquero-Siguero N, Jackstadt R. Dark force rising: Reawakening and targeting of fetal-like stem cells in colorectal cancer. Cell Rep 2024; 43:114270. [PMID: 38787726 DOI: 10.1016/j.celrep.2024.114270] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/20/2024] [Revised: 04/14/2024] [Accepted: 05/08/2024] [Indexed: 05/26/2024] Open
Abstract
Stem cells play pivotal roles in maintaining intestinal homeostasis, orchestrating regeneration, and in key steps of colorectal cancer (CRC) initiation and progression. Intriguingly, adult stem cells are reduced during many of these processes. On the contrary, primitive fetal programs, commonly detected in development, emerge during tissue repair, CRC metastasis, and therapy resistance. Recent findings indicate a dynamic continuum between adult and fetal stem cell programs. We discuss critical mechanisms facilitating the plasticity between stem cell states and highlight the heterogeneity observed upon the appearance of fetal-like states. We focus on therapeutic opportunities that arise by targeting fetal-like CRC cells and how those concepts can be translated into the clinic.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sigrid K Fey
- Heidelberg Institute for Stem Cell Technology and Experimental Medicine (HI-STEM gGmbH), 69120 Heidelberg, Germany; Cancer Progression and Metastasis Group, German Cancer Research Center (DKFZ) and DKFZ-ZMBH Alliance, 69120 Heidelberg, Germany
| | - Nuria Vaquero-Siguero
- Heidelberg Institute for Stem Cell Technology and Experimental Medicine (HI-STEM gGmbH), 69120 Heidelberg, Germany; Cancer Progression and Metastasis Group, German Cancer Research Center (DKFZ) and DKFZ-ZMBH Alliance, 69120 Heidelberg, Germany; Faculty of Biosciences, Heidelberg University, 69120 Heidelberg, Germany
| | - Rene Jackstadt
- Heidelberg Institute for Stem Cell Technology and Experimental Medicine (HI-STEM gGmbH), 69120 Heidelberg, Germany; Cancer Progression and Metastasis Group, German Cancer Research Center (DKFZ) and DKFZ-ZMBH Alliance, 69120 Heidelberg, Germany; German Cancer Consortium (DKTK), DKFZ, Core Center Heidelberg, 69120 Heidelberg, Germany.
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5
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Gupta P, Kayal S, Tanimura N, Pothapragada SP, Senapati HK, Devendran P, Fujita Y, Bi D, Das T. Mechanical imbalance between normal and transformed cells drives epithelial homeostasis through cell competition. BIORXIV : THE PREPRINT SERVER FOR BIOLOGY 2024:2023.09.27.559723. [PMID: 37961252 PMCID: PMC10635021 DOI: 10.1101/2023.09.27.559723] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/15/2023]
Abstract
Cell competition in epithelial tissue eliminates transformed cells expressing activated oncoproteins to maintain epithelial homeostasis. Although the process is now understood to be of mechanochemical origin, direct mechanical characterization and associated biochemical underpinnings are lacking. Here, we employ tissue-scale stress and compressibility measurements and theoretical modeling to unveil a mechanical imbalance between normal and transformed cells, which drives cell competition. In the mouse intestinal epithelium and epithelial monolayer, transformed cells get compacted during competition. Stress microscopy reveals an emergent compressive stress at the transformed loci leading to this compaction. A cell-based self-propelled Voronoi model predicts that this compressive stress originates from a difference in the collective compressibility of the competing populations. A new collective compressibility measurement technique named gel compression microscopy then elucidates a two-fold higher compressibility of the transformed population than the normal population. Mechanistically, weakened cell-cell adhesions due to reduced junctional abundance of E-cadherin in the transformed cells render them collectively more compressible than normal cells. Taken together, our findings unveil a mechanical basis for epithelial homeostasis against oncogenic transformations with implications in epithelial defense against cancer.
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Affiliation(s)
- Praver Gupta
- Tata Institute of Fundamental Research Hyderabad (TIFRH), Hyderabad 500046, India
| | - Sayantani Kayal
- Department of Physics, Northeastern University, Boston, MA 02115, USA
| | - Nobuyuki Tanimura
- Department of Molecular Oncology, Graduate School of Medicine, Kyoto University, Yoshida-Konoe-Cho, Sakyo-Ku, Kyoto-city, Kyoto 606-8501, Japan
| | - Shilpa P. Pothapragada
- Tata Institute of Fundamental Research Hyderabad (TIFRH), Hyderabad 500046, India
- Present address: Wyss Institute for Biologically Inspired Engineering, Harvard University, Boston, MA 02115. USA
| | - Harish K. Senapati
- Tata Institute of Fundamental Research Hyderabad (TIFRH), Hyderabad 500046, India
- Present address: Max Planck Institute for Medical Research, Heidelberg 69120, Germany
| | - Padmashree Devendran
- Tata Institute of Fundamental Research Hyderabad (TIFRH), Hyderabad 500046, India
| | - Yasuyuki Fujita
- Department of Molecular Oncology, Graduate School of Medicine, Kyoto University, Yoshida-Konoe-Cho, Sakyo-Ku, Kyoto-city, Kyoto 606-8501, Japan
| | - Dapeng Bi
- Department of Physics, Northeastern University, Boston, MA 02115, USA
| | - Tamal Das
- Tata Institute of Fundamental Research Hyderabad (TIFRH), Hyderabad 500046, India
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6
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Haghzad T, Khorsand B, Razavi SA, Hedayati M. A computational approach to assessing the prognostic implications of BRAF and RAS mutations in patients with papillary thyroid carcinoma. Endocrine 2024:10.1007/s12020-024-03911-3. [PMID: 38886331 DOI: 10.1007/s12020-024-03911-3] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/21/2023] [Accepted: 06/01/2024] [Indexed: 06/20/2024]
Abstract
Papillary thyroid carcinoma (PTC) is the most common thyroid cancer, posing a growing clinical challenge. PTC exhibits two age-related peaks, with established risk factors including family history and radiation exposure. Managing even low-risk, localized PTC cases remain complex, with growing interest in active surveillance as an alternative to immediate surgery. This study employed single-cell RNA sequencing (scRNA-Seq) to explore the predictive value of BRAF and RAS mutations in PTC, shedding light on their impact on disease progression and outcomes. The analyses emphasized the significance of BRAF and RAS mutations in tumor advancement, particularly the unique BRAF V600E mutation associated with aggressive features. The methodology involved scRNA-Seq analysis of PTC and normal samples, unveiling distinct cell clusters and indicating upregulated BRAF and RAS genes. Pathway enrichment analysis highlighted altered biological processes and immune-related pathways in PTC. The study consolidated previous research showing the prevalence of BRAF and RAS mutations in PTC, subtypes with distinct molecular profiles, and the impact of TERT promoter mutations on disease severity. In summary, this study unveils the complex interplay of genetic mutations and the cellular microenvironment in PTC through scRNA-Seq. The upregulated BRAF and RAS genes suggest their roles as PTC drivers, and pathway enrichment reveals alterations in immune-related processes. This synthesis of prior research enhances our understanding of PTC's molecular foundations, informing better prognosis and personalized treatment approaches. These insights advance the landscape of PTC management and provide directions for further research.
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Affiliation(s)
- Tahereh Haghzad
- Department of Biology, Faculty of Sciences, University of Guilan, Rasht, Iran
| | - Babak Khorsand
- Department of Neurology, University of California, Irvine, CA, USA
- Department of Computer Engineering, Faculty of Engineering, Ferdowsi University of Mashhad, Mashhad, Iran
| | - S Adeleh Razavi
- Cellular and Molecular Endocrine Research Center, Research Institute for Endocrine Sciences, Shahid Beheshti University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran.
| | - Mehdi Hedayati
- Cellular and Molecular Endocrine Research Center, Research Institute for Endocrine Sciences, Shahid Beheshti University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran.
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7
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Rajendra KC, Cheng R, Zhou S, Lizarazo S, Smith D, Van Bortle K. Evidence of RNA polymerase III recruitment and transcription at protein-coding gene promoters. BIORXIV : THE PREPRINT SERVER FOR BIOLOGY 2024:2024.06.08.598009. [PMID: 38895345 PMCID: PMC11185800 DOI: 10.1101/2024.06.08.598009] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 06/21/2024]
Abstract
RNA polymerase (Pol) I, II, and III are most commonly described as having distinct roles in synthesizing ribosomal RNA (rRNA), messenger RNA (mRNA), and specific small noncoding (nc)RNAs, respectively. This delineation of transcriptional responsibilities is not definitive, however, as evidenced by instances of Pol II recruitment to genes conventionally transcribed by Pol III, including the co-transcription of RPPH1 - the catalytic RNA component of RNase P. A comprehensive understanding of the interplay between RNA polymerase complexes remains lacking, however, due to limited comparative analyses for all three enzymes. To address this gap, we applied a uniform framework for quantifying global Pol I, II, and III occupancies that integrates currently available human RNA polymerase ChIP-seq datasets. Occupancy maps are combined with a comprehensive multi-class promoter set that includes protein-coding genes, noncoding genes, and repetitive elements. While our genomic survey appropriately identifies recruitment of Pol I, II, and III to canonical target genes, we unexpectedly discover widespread recruitment of the Pol III machinery to promoters of specific protein-coding genes, supported by colocalization patterns observed for several Pol III-specific subunits. We show that Pol III-occupied Pol II promoters are enriched for small, nascent RNA reads terminating in a run of 4 Ts, a unique hallmark of Pol III transcription termination and evidence of active Pol III activity at these sites. Pol III disruption differentially modulates the expression of Pol III-occupied coding genes, which are functionally enriched for ribosomal proteins and genes broadly linked to unfavorable outcomes in cancer. Our map also identifies additional, currently unannotated genomic elements occupied by Pol III with clear signatures of nascent RNA species that are sensitive to disruption of La (SSB) - a Pol III-related RNA chaperone protein. These findings reshape our current understanding of the interplay between Pols II and III and identify potentially novel small ncRNAs with broad implications for gene regulatory paradigms and RNA biology.
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Affiliation(s)
- K C Rajendra
- Center for Biophysics and Quantitative Biology, University of Illinois Urbana-Champaign, Urbana, IL 61801, USA
| | - Ruiying Cheng
- Department of Cell and Developmental Biology, University of Illinois Urbana-Champaign, Urbana, IL 61801, USA
| | - Sihang Zhou
- Department of Cell and Developmental Biology, University of Illinois Urbana-Champaign, Urbana, IL 61801, USA
| | - Simon Lizarazo
- Department of Molecular and Integrative Physiology, University of Illinois Urbana-Champaign, Urbana, IL 61801, USA
| | - Duncan Smith
- Department of Biology, New York University, New York, NY
| | - Kevin Van Bortle
- Department of Cell and Developmental Biology, University of Illinois Urbana-Champaign, Urbana, IL 61801, USA
- Cancer Center at Illinois, University of Illinois Urbana-Champaign, Urbana, IL 61801, USA
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8
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Jiang J, Jiang L, Maldonato BJ, Wang Y, Holderfield M, Aronchik I, Winters IP, Salman Z, Blaj C, Menard M, Brodbeck J, Chen Z, Wei X, Rosen MJ, Gindin Y, Lee BJ, Evans JW, Chang S, Wang Z, Seamon KJ, Parsons D, Cregg J, Marquez A, Tomlinson ACA, Yano JK, Knox JE, Quintana E, Aguirre AJ, Arbour KC, Reed A, Gustafson WC, Gill AL, Koltun ES, Wildes D, Smith JAM, Wang Z, Singh M. Translational and Therapeutic Evaluation of RAS-GTP Inhibition by RMC-6236 in RAS-Driven Cancers. Cancer Discov 2024; 14:994-1017. [PMID: 38593348 PMCID: PMC11149917 DOI: 10.1158/2159-8290.cd-24-0027] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/19/2024] [Revised: 03/09/2024] [Accepted: 03/19/2024] [Indexed: 04/11/2024]
Abstract
RAS-driven cancers comprise up to 30% of human cancers. RMC-6236 is a RAS(ON) multi-selective noncovalent inhibitor of the active, GTP-bound state of both mutant and wild-type variants of canonical RAS isoforms with broad therapeutic potential for the aforementioned unmet medical need. RMC-6236 exhibited potent anticancer activity across RAS-addicted cell lines, particularly those harboring mutations at codon 12 of KRAS. Notably, oral administration of RMC-6236 was tolerated in vivo and drove profound tumor regressions across multiple tumor types in a mouse clinical trial with KRASG12X xenograft models. Translational PK/efficacy and PK/PD modeling predicted that daily doses of 100 mg and 300 mg would achieve tumor control and objective responses, respectively, in patients with RAS-driven tumors. Consistent with this, we describe here objective responses in two patients (at 300 mg daily) with advanced KRASG12X lung and pancreatic adenocarcinoma, respectively, demonstrating the initial activity of RMC-6236 in an ongoing phase I/Ib clinical trial (NCT05379985). SIGNIFICANCE The discovery of RMC-6236 enables the first-ever therapeutic evaluation of targeted and concurrent inhibition of canonical mutant and wild-type RAS-GTP in RAS-driven cancers. We demonstrate that broad-spectrum RAS-GTP inhibition is tolerable at exposures that induce profound tumor regressions in preclinical models of, and in patients with, such tumors. This article is featured in Selected Articles from This Issue, p. 897.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Lingyan Jiang
- Revolution Medicines, Inc., Redwood City, California
| | | | - Yingyun Wang
- Revolution Medicines, Inc., Redwood City, California
| | | | - Ida Aronchik
- Revolution Medicines, Inc., Redwood City, California
| | - Ian P Winters
- Revolution Medicines, Inc., Redwood City, California
- D2G Oncology, Inc., Mountain View, California
| | - Zeena Salman
- Revolution Medicines, Inc., Redwood City, California
| | - Cristina Blaj
- Revolution Medicines, Inc., Redwood City, California
| | - Marie Menard
- Revolution Medicines, Inc., Redwood City, California
| | - Jens Brodbeck
- Revolution Medicines, Inc., Redwood City, California
| | - Zhe Chen
- Revolution Medicines, Inc., Redwood City, California
| | - Xing Wei
- Revolution Medicines, Inc., Redwood City, California
| | | | | | - Bianca J Lee
- Revolution Medicines, Inc., Redwood City, California
| | - James W Evans
- Revolution Medicines, Inc., Redwood City, California
| | | | - Zhican Wang
- Revolution Medicines, Inc., Redwood City, California
| | - Kyle J Seamon
- Revolution Medicines, Inc., Redwood City, California
| | - Dylan Parsons
- Revolution Medicines, Inc., Redwood City, California
| | - James Cregg
- Revolution Medicines, Inc., Redwood City, California
| | - Abby Marquez
- Revolution Medicines, Inc., Redwood City, California
| | | | - Jason K Yano
- Revolution Medicines, Inc., Redwood City, California
| | - John E Knox
- Revolution Medicines, Inc., Redwood City, California
| | - Elsa Quintana
- Revolution Medicines, Inc., Redwood City, California
| | - Andrew J Aguirre
- Department of Medical Oncology, Dana-Farber Cancer Institute, Boston, Massachusetts
- Harvard Medical School, Boston, Massachusetts
- Broad Institute of MIT and Harvard, Cambridge, Massachusetts
- Department of Medicine, Brigham and Women's Hospital, Boston, Massachusetts
| | - Kathryn C Arbour
- Department of Medicine, Memorial Sloan Kettering Cancer Center, New York, New York
| | - Abby Reed
- The Christ Hospital Cancer Center, Cincinnati, Ohio
| | | | - Adrian L Gill
- Revolution Medicines, Inc., Redwood City, California
| | | | - David Wildes
- Revolution Medicines, Inc., Redwood City, California
| | | | | | - Mallika Singh
- Revolution Medicines, Inc., Redwood City, California
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9
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Xin T, Gallini S, Wei H, Gonzalez DG, Matte-Martone C, Machida H, Fujiwara H, Pasolli HA, Suozzi KC, Gonzalez LE, Regot S, Greco V. Oncogenic Kras induces spatiotemporally specific tissue deformation through converting pulsatile into sustained ERK activation. Nat Cell Biol 2024; 26:859-867. [PMID: 38689013 DOI: 10.1038/s41556-024-01413-y] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/08/2022] [Accepted: 03/28/2024] [Indexed: 05/02/2024]
Abstract
Tissue regeneration and maintenance rely on coordinated stem cell behaviours. This orchestration can be impaired by oncogenic mutations leading to cancer. However, it is largely unclear how oncogenes perturb stem cells' orchestration to disrupt tissue. Here we used intravital imaging to investigate the mechanisms by which oncogenic Kras mutation causes tissue disruption in the hair follicle. Through longitudinally tracking hair follicles in live mice, we found that KrasG12D, a mutation that can lead to squamous cell carcinoma, induces epithelial tissue deformation in a spatiotemporally specific manner, linked with abnormal cell division and migration. Using a reporter mouse capture real-time ERK signal dynamics at the single-cell level, we discovered that KrasG12D, but not a closely related mutation HrasG12V, converts ERK signal in stem cells from pulsatile to sustained. Finally, we demonstrated that interrupting sustained ERK signal reverts KrasG12D-induced tissue deformation through modulating specific features of cell migration and division.
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Affiliation(s)
- Tianchi Xin
- Department of Genetics, Yale University School of Medicine, New Haven, CT, USA.
| | - Sara Gallini
- Department of Genetics, Yale University School of Medicine, New Haven, CT, USA
| | - Haoyang Wei
- Department of Genetics, Yale University School of Medicine, New Haven, CT, USA
| | - David G Gonzalez
- Department of Genetics, Yale University School of Medicine, New Haven, CT, USA
| | | | - Hiroki Machida
- Laboratory for Tissue Microenvironment, RIKEN Center for Biosystems Dynamics Research, Kobe, Japan
- Graduate School of Medicine, Osaka University, Suita, Japan
| | - Hironobu Fujiwara
- Laboratory for Tissue Microenvironment, RIKEN Center for Biosystems Dynamics Research, Kobe, Japan
- Graduate School of Medicine, Osaka University, Suita, Japan
| | - H Amalia Pasolli
- Electron Microscopy Resource Center, The Rockefeller University, New York, NY, USA
| | - Kathleen C Suozzi
- Department of Dermatology, Yale School of Medicine, New Haven, CT, USA
| | - Lauren E Gonzalez
- Department of Genetics, Yale University School of Medicine, New Haven, CT, USA
| | - Sergi Regot
- Department of Molecular Biology and Genetics, Johns Hopkins School of Medicine, Baltimore, MD, USA.
| | - Valentina Greco
- Department of Genetics, Yale University School of Medicine, New Haven, CT, USA.
- Department of Dermatology, Yale School of Medicine, New Haven, CT, USA.
- Department of Cell Biology, Yale Stem Cell Center, Yale Cancer Center, Yale School of Medicine, New Haven, CT, USA.
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10
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Zhao XC, Ma RF, Liu H, Shan P, Bao J, Zhang H. Grifolin Induces Cell Death of Human Lung Cancer A549 Cell Line via Inhibiting KRAS-Mediated Multiple Signaling Pathways. Chem Biodivers 2024:e202400792. [PMID: 38738487 DOI: 10.1002/cbdv.202400792] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/27/2024] [Revised: 05/06/2024] [Accepted: 05/13/2024] [Indexed: 05/14/2024]
Abstract
In the current work, grifolin was obtained from the twigs and leaves of Daphne genkwa for the first time and displayed significant growth inhibition against human lung carcinoma A549 cells. Subsequent in vitro antitumor evaluation revealed that grifolin could induce remarkable cell apoptosis and G0/G1 phase arrest, as well as block cell migration and invasion. In addition, grifolin also disrupted cellular energy metabolism by inducing reactive oxygen species, reducing adenosine triphosphate and mitochondrial membrane potential, and damaging DNA synthesis. Further RNA-seq analysis demonstrated that treatment of grifolin on A549 cells led to gene enrichment in MAPK, PI3K/Akt and NF-κB signaling pathways, all of which were inhibited by grifolin according to immunoblotting experiments. Further mechanistical studies disclosed that the expression of a key upstream protein KRAS was also blocked, and the cell death triggered by grifolin could be rescued by a RAS activator ML-099. Moreover, pretreatment of ML-099 on A549 cells could reverse the grifolin-induced downregulation of key proteins in the three aforementioned pathways. These findings indicate that grifolin could induce cell death in A549 cell line by inhibiting KRAS-mediated multiple signaling pathways.
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Affiliation(s)
- Xue-Chun Zhao
- School of Biological Science and Technology, University of Jinan, Jinan, 250022, China E-mail: bio_(H. Zhang) (J. Bao
| | - Ren-Fen Ma
- School of Biological Science and Technology, University of Jinan, Jinan, 250022, China E-mail: bio_(H. Zhang) (J. Bao
| | - Hu Liu
- School of Biological Science and Technology, University of Jinan, Jinan, 250022, China E-mail: bio_(H. Zhang) (J. Bao
| | - Peipei Shan
- Institute of Translational Medicine, The Affiliated Hospital of Qingdao University, College of Medicine, Qingdao University, Qingdao, 266021, China
| | - Jie Bao
- School of Biological Science and Technology, University of Jinan, Jinan, 250022, China E-mail: bio_(H. Zhang) (J. Bao
| | - Hua Zhang
- School of Biological Science and Technology, University of Jinan, Jinan, 250022, China E-mail: bio_(H. Zhang) (J. Bao
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11
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Arora N, Mu H, Liang H, Zhao W, Zhou Y. RAS G-domains allosterically contribute to the recognition of lipid headgroups and acyl chains. J Cell Biol 2024; 223:e202307121. [PMID: 38334958 PMCID: PMC10857904 DOI: 10.1083/jcb.202307121] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/17/2023] [Revised: 12/15/2023] [Accepted: 01/29/2024] [Indexed: 02/10/2024] Open
Abstract
Mutant RAS are major contributors to cancer and signal primarily from nanoclusters on the plasma membrane (PM). Their C-terminal membrane anchors are main features of membrane association. However, the same RAS isoform bound to different guanine nucleotides spatially segregate. Different RAS nanoclusters all enrich a phospholipid, phosphatidylserine (PS). These findings suggest more complex membrane interactions. Our electron microscopy-spatial analysis shows that wild-types, G12V mutants, and membrane anchors of isoforms HRAS, KRAS4A, and KRAS4B prefer distinct PS species. Mechanistically, reorientation of KRAS4B G-domain exposes distinct residues, such as Arg 135 in orientation state 1 (OS1) and Arg 73/Arg 102 in OS2, to the PM and differentially facilitates the recognition of PS acyl chains. Allele-specific oncogenic mutations of KRAS4B also shift G-domain reorientation equilibrium. Indeed, KRAS4BG12V, KRAS4BG12D, KRAS4BG12C, KRAS4BG13D, and KRAS4BQ61H associate with PM lipids with headgroup and acyl chain specificities. Distribution of these KRAS4B oncogenic mutants favors different nanoscale membrane topography. Thus, RAS G-domains allosterically facilitate membrane lateral distribution.
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Affiliation(s)
- Neha Arora
- Department of Integrative Biology and Pharmacology, McGovern Medical School, University of Texas Health Science Center, Houston, TX, USA
| | - Huanwen Mu
- School of Chemistry, Chemical Engineering and Biotechnology, Nanyang Technological University, Singapore, Singapore
| | - Hong Liang
- Department of Integrative Biology and Pharmacology, McGovern Medical School, University of Texas Health Science Center, Houston, TX, USA
| | - Wenting Zhao
- School of Chemistry, Chemical Engineering and Biotechnology, Nanyang Technological University, Singapore, Singapore
- Institute for Digital Molecular Analytics and Science, Nanyang Technological University, Singapore, Singapore
| | - Yong Zhou
- Department of Integrative Biology and Pharmacology, McGovern Medical School, University of Texas Health Science Center, Houston, TX, USA
- Program of Molecular and Translational Biology, Graduate School of Biological Sciences, M.D. Anderson Cancer Center and University of Texas Health Science Center, Houston, TX, USA
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12
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Isaak AJ, Clements GR, Buenaventura RGM, Merlino G, Yu Y. Development of Personalized Strategies for Precisely Battling Malignant Melanoma. Int J Mol Sci 2024; 25:5023. [PMID: 38732242 PMCID: PMC11084485 DOI: 10.3390/ijms25095023] [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: 03/27/2024] [Revised: 04/27/2024] [Accepted: 04/30/2024] [Indexed: 05/13/2024] Open
Abstract
Melanoma is the most severe and fatal form of skin cancer, resulting from multiple gene mutations with high intra-tumor and inter-tumor molecular heterogeneity. Treatment options for patients whose disease has progressed beyond the ability for surgical resection rely on currently accepted standard therapies, notably immune checkpoint inhibitors and targeted therapies. Acquired resistance to these therapies and treatment-associated toxicity necessitate exploring novel strategies, especially those that can be personalized for specific patients and/or populations. Here, we review the current landscape and progress of standard therapies and explore what personalized oncology techniques may entail in the scope of melanoma. Our purpose is to provide an up-to-date summary of the tools at our disposal that work to circumvent the common barriers faced when battling melanoma.
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Affiliation(s)
| | | | | | | | - Yanlin Yu
- Laboratory of Cancer Biology and Genetics, Center for Cancer Research, National Cancer Institute, National Institutes of Health, Bethesda, MD 20892, USA
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13
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Kirschner T, Müller MP, Rauh D. Targeting KRAS Diversity: Covalent Modulation of G12X and Beyond in Cancer Therapy. J Med Chem 2024; 67:6044-6051. [PMID: 38621359 DOI: 10.1021/acs.jmedchem.3c02403] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 04/17/2024]
Abstract
The GTPase KRAS acts as a switch in cellular signaling, transitioning between inactive GDP-bound and active GTP-bound states. In about 20% of human cancers, oncogenic RAS mutations disrupt this balance, favoring the active form and promoting proliferative signaling, thus rendering KRAS an appealing target for precision medicine in oncology. In 2013, Shokat and co-workers achieved a groundbreaking feat by covalently targeting a previously undiscovered allosteric pocket (switch II pocket (SWIIP)) of KRASG12C. This breakthrough led to the development and approval of sotorasib (AMG510) and adagrasib (MRTX849), revolutionizing the treatment of KRASG12C-dependent lung cancer. Recent achievements in targeting various KRASG12X mutants, using SWIIP as a key binding pocket, are discussed. Insights from successful KRASG12C targeting informed the design of molecules addressing other mutations, often in a covalent manner. These findings offer promise for innovative approaches in addressing commonly occurring KRAS mutations such as G12D, G12V, G12A, G12S, and G12R in various cancers.
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Affiliation(s)
- Tonia Kirschner
- Department of Chemistry and Chemical Biology, TU Dortmund University, Otto-Hahn-Strasse 4a, 44227 Dortmund, Germany
- Drug Discovery Hub Dortmund (DDHD) am Zentrum für integrierte Wirkstoffforschung (ZIW), 44227 Dortmund, Germany
| | - Matthias P Müller
- Department of Chemistry and Chemical Biology, TU Dortmund University, Otto-Hahn-Strasse 4a, 44227 Dortmund, Germany
- Drug Discovery Hub Dortmund (DDHD) am Zentrum für integrierte Wirkstoffforschung (ZIW), 44227 Dortmund, Germany
| | - Daniel Rauh
- Department of Chemistry and Chemical Biology, TU Dortmund University, Otto-Hahn-Strasse 4a, 44227 Dortmund, Germany
- Drug Discovery Hub Dortmund (DDHD) am Zentrum für integrierte Wirkstoffforschung (ZIW), 44227 Dortmund, Germany
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14
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Alawieh D, Cysique-Foinlan L, Willekens C, Renneville A. RAS mutations in myeloid malignancies: revisiting old questions with novel insights and therapeutic perspectives. Blood Cancer J 2024; 14:72. [PMID: 38658558 PMCID: PMC11043080 DOI: 10.1038/s41408-024-01054-2] [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: 02/27/2024] [Revised: 04/11/2024] [Accepted: 04/12/2024] [Indexed: 04/26/2024] Open
Abstract
NRAS and KRAS activating point mutations are present in 10-30% of myeloid malignancies and are often associated with a proliferative phenotype. RAS mutations harbor allele-specific structural and biochemical properties depending on the hotspot mutation, contributing to variable biological consequences. Given their subclonal nature in most myeloid malignancies, their clonal architecture, and patterns of cooperativity with other driver genetic alterations may potentially have a direct, causal influence on the prognosis and treatment of myeloid malignancies. RAS mutations overall tend to be associated with poor clinical outcome in both chronic and acute myeloid malignancies. Several recent prognostic scoring systems have incorporated RAS mutational status. While RAS mutations do not always act as independent prognostic factors, they significantly influence disease progression and survival. However, their clinical significance depends on the type of mutation, disease context, and treatment administered. Recent evidence also indicates that RAS mutations drive resistance to targeted therapies, particularly FLT3, IDH1/2, or JAK2 inhibitors, as well as the venetoclax-azacitidine combination. The investigation of novel therapeutic strategies and combinations that target multiple axes within the RAS pathway, encompassing both upstream and downstream components, is an active field of research. The success of direct RAS inhibitors in patients with solid tumors has brought renewed optimism that this progress will be translated to patients with hematologic malignancies. In this review, we highlight key insights on RAS mutations across myeloid malignancies from the past decade, including their prevalence and distribution, cooperative genetic events, clonal architecture and dynamics, prognostic implications, and therapeutic targeting.
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Affiliation(s)
- Dana Alawieh
- INSERM U1287, Gustave Roussy, Paris-Saclay University, Villejuif, France
| | - Leila Cysique-Foinlan
- INSERM U1287, Gustave Roussy, Paris-Saclay University, Villejuif, France
- Department of Hematology, Gustave Roussy, Villejuif, France
| | - Christophe Willekens
- INSERM U1287, Gustave Roussy, Paris-Saclay University, Villejuif, France
- Department of Hematology, Gustave Roussy, Villejuif, France
| | - Aline Renneville
- INSERM U1287, Gustave Roussy, Paris-Saclay University, Villejuif, France.
- Department of Medical Biology and Pathology, Gustave Roussy, Villejuif, France.
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15
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Choi J, Shin JY, Kim TK, Kim K, Kim J, Jeon E, Park J, Han YD, Kim KA, Sim T, Kim HK, Kim HS. Site-specific mutagenesis screening in KRAS G12D mutant library to uncover resistance mechanisms to KRAS G12D inhibitors. Cancer Lett 2024; 591:216904. [PMID: 38642608 DOI: 10.1016/j.canlet.2024.216904] [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: 01/15/2024] [Revised: 04/05/2024] [Accepted: 04/16/2024] [Indexed: 04/22/2024]
Abstract
KRAS plays a crucial role in regulating cell survival and proliferation and is one of the most commonly mutated oncogenes in human cancers. The novel KRASG12D inhibitor, MRTX1133, demonstrates promising antitumor efficacy in vitro and in vivo. However, the development of acquired resistance in treated patients presents a considerable challenge to sustained therapeutic effectiveness. In response to this challenge, we conducted site-specific mutagenesis screening to identify potential secondary mutations that could induce resistance to MRTX1133. We screened a range of KRASG12D variants harboring potential secondary mutations, and 44 representative variants were selected for in-depth validation of the pooled screening outcomes. We identified eight variants (G12D with V9E, V9W, V9Q, G13P, T58Y, R68G, Y96W, and Q99L) that exhibited substantial resistance, with V9W showing notable resistance, and downstream signaling analyses and structural modeling were conducted. We observed that secondary mutations in KRASG12D can lead to acquired resistance to MRTX1133 and BI-2865, a novel pan-KRAS inhibitor, in human cancer cell lines. This evidence is critical for devising new strategies to counteract resistance mechanisms and, ultimately, enhance treatment outcomes in patients with KRASG12D-mutant cancers.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jeesoo Choi
- Department of Internal Medicine, Graduate School of Medical Science, Brain Korea 21 Project, Yonsei University College of Medicine, Seoul, 03722, Republic of Korea
| | - Ju-Young Shin
- Department of Integrative Biotechnology, Sungkyunkwan University, Suwon, 16419, Republic of Korea
| | - Taeyul K Kim
- Department of Internal Medicine, Graduate School of Medical Science, Brain Korea 21 Project, Yonsei University College of Medicine, Seoul, 03722, Republic of Korea
| | - Kiwook Kim
- Department of Integrative Biotechnology, Sungkyunkwan University, Suwon, 16419, Republic of Korea
| | - Jiyun Kim
- Department of Integrative Biotechnology, Sungkyunkwan University, Suwon, 16419, Republic of Korea
| | - Eunhye Jeon
- Severance Biomedical Science Institute, Graduate School of Medical Science, Brain Korea 21 Project, Yonsei University College of Medicine, Seoul, 03722, Republic of Korea
| | - Juyeong Park
- Department of Medicine, Graduate School, Yonsei University College of Medicine, Seoul, 03722, Republic of Korea; Theragen Bio Co., Ltd, Seongnam-si, 13488, Republic of Korea
| | - Yoon Dae Han
- Department of Surgery, Yonsei University College of Medicine, Seoul, 03722, Republic of Korea
| | - Kyung-A Kim
- Department of Internal Medicine, Graduate School of Medical Science, Brain Korea 21 Project, Yonsei University College of Medicine, Seoul, 03722, Republic of Korea
| | - Taebo Sim
- Severance Biomedical Science Institute, Graduate School of Medical Science, Brain Korea 21 Project, Yonsei University College of Medicine, Seoul, 03722, Republic of Korea; KU-KIST Graduate School of Converging Science and Technology, Korea University, Seoul, 02841, Republic of Korea
| | - Hui Kwon Kim
- Department of Integrative Biotechnology, Sungkyunkwan University, Suwon, 16419, Republic of Korea.
| | - Han Sang Kim
- Department of Internal Medicine, Graduate School of Medical Science, Brain Korea 21 Project, Yonsei University College of Medicine, Seoul, 03722, Republic of Korea; Yonsei Cancer Center, Division of Medical Oncology, Department of Internal Medicine, Yonsei University College of Medicine, Seoul, 03722, Republic of Korea.
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16
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Le Roux Ö, Everitt JI, Counter CM. p53 dosage can impede KrasG12D- and KrasQ61R-mediated tumorigenesis. PLoS One 2024; 19:e0292189. [PMID: 38547169 PMCID: PMC10977719 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pone.0292189] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/15/2023] [Accepted: 01/03/2024] [Indexed: 04/02/2024] Open
Abstract
Mice engineered with a G12D versus Q61R mutation in Kras exhibited differences in tumorigenesis. Namely, the incidence or grade of oral or forestomach squamous epithelial lesions was more prevalent in the KrasG12D background while hematolymphopoietic disease was more prevalent in the KrasQ61R background. Loss of the Trp53 gene encoding the tumor suppressor p53 enhances the ability of oncogenic Kras to initiate tumorigenesis in carcinogen and genetic models of lung cancer. Conversley, an extra copy of Trp53 (Super p53) was recently shown to suppress Kras-induced tumorigenesis in a genetic model of this disease. Given this, we evaluated whether an extra copy of Trp53 would alter tumorigenesis upon global activation of a modified Kras allele engineered with either a G12D or Q61R mutation. We report that an increase in p53 dosage significantly reduced the incidence or grade of oral and forestomach squamous tumors induced by either G12D and Q61R-mutant Kras. The incidence of myeloproliferative disease was also significantly reduced with increased p53 dosage in the KrasQ61R background. Both the percentage of mice with lung tumors and total number of adenomas per animal were unchanged. However, the incidence and grade of peripheral atypical alveolar hyperplasia was significantly decreased in both backgrounds with increased p53 dosage. Finally, the number of foci of bronchioloalveolar hyperplasia per animal significantly increased with increased p53 dosage in the KrasG12D background. These results suggest that an extra copy of p53 can impede oncogenic Kras driven tumorigenesis in some tissues.
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Affiliation(s)
- Özgün Le Roux
- Department of Pharmacology & Cancer Biology, Duke University Medical Center, Durham, North Carolina, United States of America
| | - Jeffery I. Everitt
- Department of Pathology, Duke University Medical Center, Durham, North Carolina, United States of America
| | - Christopher M. Counter
- Department of Pharmacology & Cancer Biology, Duke University Medical Center, Durham, North Carolina, United States of America
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17
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Wang J, Dong L, Zheng Z, Zhu Z, Xie B, Xie Y, Li X, Chen B, Li P. Effects of different KRAS mutants and Ki67 expression on diagnosis and prognosis in lung adenocarcinoma. Sci Rep 2024; 14:4085. [PMID: 38374309 PMCID: PMC10876986 DOI: 10.1038/s41598-023-48307-x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/14/2023] [Accepted: 11/24/2023] [Indexed: 02/21/2024] Open
Abstract
Lung adenocarcinoma (LUAD) is a prevalent form of non-small cell lung cancer with a rising incidence in recent years. Understanding the mutation characteristics of LUAD is crucial for effective treatment and prediction of this disease. Among the various mutations observed in LUAD, KRAS mutations are particularly common. Different subtypes of KRAS mutations can activate the Ras signaling pathway to varying degrees, potentially influencing the pathogenesis and prognosis of LUAD. This study aims to investigate the relationship between different KRAS mutation subtypes and the pathogenesis and prognosis of LUAD. A total of 63 clinical samples of LUAD were collected for this study. The samples were analyzed using targeted gene sequencing panels to obtain sequencing data. To complement the dataset, additional clinical and sequencing data were obtained from TCGA and MSK. The analysis revealed significantly higher Ki67 immunohistochemical scores in patients with missense mutations compared to controls. Moreover, the expression level of KRAS was found to be significantly correlated with Ki67 expression. Enrichment analysis indicated that KRAS missense mutations activated the SWEET_LUNG_CANCER_KRAS_DN and CREIGHTON_ENDOCRINE_THERAPY_RESISTANCE_2 pathways. Additionally, patients with KRAS missense mutations and high Ki67 IHC scores exhibited significantly higher tumor mutational burden levels compared to other groups, which suggests they are more likely to be responsive to ICIs. Based on the data from MSK and TCGA, it was observed that patients with KRAS missense mutations had shorter survival compared to controls, and Ki67 expression level could more accurately predict patient prognosis. In conclusion, when utilizing KRAS mutations as biomarkers for the treatment and prediction of LUAD, it is important to consider the specific KRAS mutant subtypes and Ki67 expression levels. These findings contribute to a better understanding of LUAD and have implications for personalized therapeutic approaches in the management of this disease.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jun Wang
- Department of Thoracic Surgery, Hangzhou TCM Hospital Affiliated to Zhejiang Chinese Medical University, Hangzhou, 310007, China
| | - Liwen Dong
- Department of Thoracic Surgery, Hangzhou TCM Hospital Affiliated to Zhejiang Chinese Medical University, Hangzhou, 310007, China
| | - Zhaowei Zheng
- Department of Thoracic Surgery, Hangzhou TCM Hospital Affiliated to Zhejiang Chinese Medical University, Hangzhou, 310007, China
| | - Zhen Zhu
- Department of Thoracic Surgery, Hangzhou TCM Hospital Affiliated to Zhejiang Chinese Medical University, Hangzhou, 310007, China
| | - Baisheng Xie
- Department of Thoracic Surgery, Hangzhou TCM Hospital Affiliated to Zhejiang Chinese Medical University, Hangzhou, 310007, China
| | - Yue Xie
- Department of Thoracic Surgery, Hangzhou TCM Hospital Affiliated to Zhejiang Chinese Medical University, Hangzhou, 310007, China
| | - Xiongwei Li
- Department of Thoracic Surgery, Hangzhou TCM Hospital Affiliated to Zhejiang Chinese Medical University, Hangzhou, 310007, China
| | - Bing Chen
- Department of Thoracic Surgery, Hangzhou TCM Hospital Affiliated to Zhejiang Chinese Medical University, Hangzhou, 310007, China.
| | - Pan Li
- Department of Thoracic Surgery, Hangzhou TCM Hospital Affiliated to Zhejiang Chinese Medical University, Hangzhou, 310007, China.
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18
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Wei D, Wang L, Zuo X, Maitra A, Bresalier RS. A Small Molecule with Big Impact: MRTX1133 Targets the KRASG12D Mutation in Pancreatic Cancer. Clin Cancer Res 2024; 30:655-662. [PMID: 37831007 PMCID: PMC10922474 DOI: 10.1158/1078-0432.ccr-23-2098] [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: 07/16/2023] [Revised: 08/29/2023] [Accepted: 09/28/2023] [Indexed: 10/14/2023]
Abstract
KRAS mutations drive oncogenic alterations in numerous cancers, particularly in human pancreatic ductal adenocarcinoma (PDAC). About 93% of PDACs have KRAS mutations, with G12D (∼42% of cases) and G12V (∼32% of cases) being the most common. The recent approval of sotorasib (AMG510), a small-molecule, covalent, and selective KRASG12C inhibitor, for treating patients with non-small cell lung cancer represents a breakthrough in KRAS targeted therapy. However, there is a need to develop other much-needed KRAS-mutant inhibitors for PDAC therapy. Notably, Mirati Therapeutics recently developed MRTX1133, a small-molecule, noncovalent, and selective KRASG12D inhibitor through extensive structure-based drug design. MRTX1133 has demonstrated potent in vitro and in vivo antitumor efficacy against KRASG12D-mutant cancer cells, especially in PDAC, leading to its recent initiation of a phase I/II clinical trial. Here, we provide a summary of the recent advancements related to the use of MRTX1133 for treating KRASG12D-mutant PDAC, focusing on its efficacy and underlying mechanistic actions. In addition, we discuss potential challenges and future directions for MRTX1133 therapy for PDAC, including overcoming intrinsic and acquired drug resistance, developing effective combination therapies, and improving MRTX1133's oral bioavailability and target spectrum. The promising results obtained from preclinical studies suggest that MRTX1133 could revolutionize the treatment of PDAC, bringing about a paradigm shift in its management.
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Affiliation(s)
- Daoyan Wei
- Department of Gastroenterology, Hepatology, and Nutrition, The University of Texas MD Anderson Cancer Center, Houston, TX 77030
| | - Liang Wang
- Department of Radiation Oncology, The University of Texas MD Anderson Cancer Center, Houston, TX 77030
| | - Xiangsheng Zuo
- Department of Gastrointestinal Medical Oncology, The University of Texas MD Anderson Cancer Center, Houston, TX 77030
| | - Anirban Maitra
- Department of Translational Molecular Pathology, Sheikh Ahmed Center for Pancreatic Cancer Research, The University of Texas MD Anderson Cancer Center, Houston, TX 77030
| | - Robert S. Bresalier
- Department of Gastroenterology, Hepatology, and Nutrition, The University of Texas MD Anderson Cancer Center, Houston, TX 77030
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19
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Rekowska AK, Rola P, Kwiatkowska A, Wójcik-Superczyńska M, Gil M, Krawczyk P, Milanowski J. Abnormalities in the KRAS Gene and Treatment Options for NSCLC Patients with the G12C Mutation in This Gene-A Literature Review and Single-Center Experience. Biomedicines 2024; 12:325. [PMID: 38397927 PMCID: PMC10886466 DOI: 10.3390/biomedicines12020325] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/07/2024] [Revised: 01/22/2024] [Accepted: 01/27/2024] [Indexed: 02/25/2024] Open
Abstract
Mutations in the KRAS gene are among the most common mutations observed in cancer cells, but they have only recently become an achievable goal for targeted therapies. Two KRAS inhibitors, sotorasib and adagrasib, have recently been approved for the treatment of patients with advanced non-small cell lung cancer with the KRAS G12C mutation, while studies on their efficacy are still ongoing. In this work, we comprehensively analyzed RAS gene mutations' molecular background, mutation testing, KRAS inhibitors' effectiveness with an emphasis on non-small cell lung cancer, the impact of KRAS mutations on immunotherapy outcomes, and drug resistance problems. We also summarized ongoing trials and analyzed emerging perspectives on targeting KRAS in cancer patients.
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Affiliation(s)
- Anna K. Rekowska
- Department of Pneumonology, Oncology and Allergology, Medical University of Lublin, 20-090 Lublin, Poland (M.W.-S.); (M.G.); (J.M.)
| | | | | | | | | | - Paweł Krawczyk
- Department of Pneumonology, Oncology and Allergology, Medical University of Lublin, 20-090 Lublin, Poland (M.W.-S.); (M.G.); (J.M.)
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20
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Lee C, Yi J, Park J, Ahn B, Won YW, Jeon J, Lee BJ, Cho WJ, Park JW. Hedgehog signalling is involved in acquired resistance to KRAS G12C inhibitors in lung cancer cells. Cell Death Dis 2024; 15:56. [PMID: 38225225 PMCID: PMC10789740 DOI: 10.1038/s41419-024-06436-9] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/17/2023] [Revised: 12/21/2023] [Accepted: 01/04/2024] [Indexed: 01/17/2024]
Abstract
Although KRASG12C inhibitors have shown promising activity in lung adenocarcinomas harbouring KRASG12C, acquired resistance to these therapies eventually occurs in most patients. Re-expression of KRAS is thought to be one of the main causes of acquired resistance. However, the mechanism through which cancer cells re-express KRAS is not fully understood. Here, we report that the Hedgehog signal is induced by KRASG12C inhibitors and mediates KRAS re-expression in cancer cells treated with a KRASG12C inhibitor. Further, KRASG12C inhibitors induced the formation of primary cilia and activated the Hedgehog-GLI-1 pathway. GLI-1 binds to the KRAS promoter region, enhancing KRAS promoter activity and KRAS expression. Inhibition of GLI using siRNA or the smoothened (Smo) inhibitor suppressed re-expression of KRAS in cells treated with a KRASG12C inhibitor. In addition, we demonstrate that KRASG12C inhibitors decreased Aurora kinase A (AURKA) levels in cancer cells, and inhibition of AURKA using siRNA or inhibitors led to increased expression levels of GLI-1 and KRAS even in the absence of KRAS inhibitor. Ectopic expression of AURKA attenuated the effect of KRASG12C inhibitors on the expression of GLI-1 and re-expression of KRAS. Together, these findings demonstrate the important role of AURKA, primary cilia, and Hedgehog signals in the re-expression of KRAS and therefore the induction of acquired resistance to KRASG12C inhibitors, and provide a rationale for targeting Hedgehog signalling to overcome acquired resistance to KRASG12C inhibitors.
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Affiliation(s)
- Chaeyoung Lee
- Department of Biological Sciences, University of Ulsan, Ulsan, Korea
| | - Jawoon Yi
- School of Life Sciences, Gwangju Institute of Science and Technology, Gwangju, Korea
| | - Jihwan Park
- School of Life Sciences, Gwangju Institute of Science and Technology, Gwangju, Korea
| | - Byungyong Ahn
- Department of Food Science and Nutrition, University of Ulsan, Ulsan, Korea
- Basic-Clinical Convergence Research Institute, University of Ulsan, Ulsan, Korea
| | - Young-Wook Won
- Department of Biomedical Engineering, University of North Texas, Texas, USA
- RopheLBio, B102, Seoul Forest M Tower, Seoul, Korea
| | - JiHeung Jeon
- Department of Biological Sciences, University of Ulsan, Ulsan, Korea
| | - Byung Ju Lee
- Department of Biological Sciences, University of Ulsan, Ulsan, Korea
- Basic-Clinical Convergence Research Institute, University of Ulsan, Ulsan, Korea
| | - Wha Ja Cho
- Department of Biological Sciences, University of Ulsan, Ulsan, Korea.
| | - Jeong Woo Park
- Department of Biological Sciences, University of Ulsan, Ulsan, Korea.
- Basic-Clinical Convergence Research Institute, University of Ulsan, Ulsan, Korea.
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21
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Najumudeen AK, Fey SK, Millett LM, Ford CA, Gilroy K, Gunduz N, Ridgway RA, Anderson E, Strathdee D, Clark W, Nixon C, Morton JP, Campbell AD, Sansom OJ. KRAS allelic imbalance drives tumour initiation yet suppresses metastasis in colorectal cancer in vivo. Nat Commun 2024; 15:100. [PMID: 38168062 PMCID: PMC10762264 DOI: 10.1038/s41467-023-44342-4] [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: 12/24/2021] [Accepted: 12/09/2023] [Indexed: 01/05/2024] Open
Abstract
Oncogenic KRAS mutations are well-described functionally and are known to drive tumorigenesis. Recent reports describe a significant prevalence of KRAS allelic imbalances or gene dosage changes in human cancers, including loss of the wild-type allele in KRAS mutant cancers. However, the role of wild-type KRAS in tumorigenesis and therapeutic response remains elusive. We report an in vivo murine model of colorectal cancer featuring deletion of wild-type Kras in the context of oncogenic Kras. Deletion of wild-type Kras exacerbates oncogenic KRAS signalling through MAPK and thus drives tumour initiation. Absence of wild-type Kras potentiates the oncogenic effect of KRASG12D, while incidentally inducing sensitivity to inhibition of MEK1/2. Importantly, loss of the wild-type allele in aggressive models of KRASG12D-driven CRC significantly alters tumour progression, and suppresses metastasis through modulation of the immune microenvironment. This study highlights the critical role for wild-type Kras upon tumour initiation, progression and therapeutic response in Kras mutant CRC.
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Affiliation(s)
- Arafath K Najumudeen
- Cancer Research UK Scotland Institute, Glasgow, UK.
- Institute of Biotechnology, HiLIFE, University of Helsinki, Helsinki, Finland.
| | - Sigrid K Fey
- Cancer Research UK Scotland Institute, Glasgow, UK
- School of Cancer Sciences, University of Glasgow, Glasgow, UK
| | - Laura M Millett
- School of Cancer Sciences, University of Glasgow, Glasgow, UK
| | | | | | - Nuray Gunduz
- Cancer Research UK Scotland Institute, Glasgow, UK
| | | | - Eve Anderson
- Cancer Research UK Scotland Institute, Glasgow, UK
| | | | | | - Colin Nixon
- Cancer Research UK Scotland Institute, Glasgow, UK
| | - Jennifer P Morton
- Cancer Research UK Scotland Institute, Glasgow, UK
- School of Cancer Sciences, University of Glasgow, Glasgow, UK
| | | | - Owen J Sansom
- Cancer Research UK Scotland Institute, Glasgow, UK.
- School of Cancer Sciences, University of Glasgow, Glasgow, UK.
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22
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Stites EC. The Abundance of KRAS and RAS Gene Mutations in Cancer. Methods Mol Biol 2024; 2797:13-22. [PMID: 38570449 DOI: 10.1007/978-1-0716-3822-4_2] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 04/05/2024]
Abstract
Mutant forms of the RAS genes KRAS, NRAS, and HRAS are important and common drivers of cancer. Recently, two independent teams that integrated cancer genomics with cancer epidemiology estimated that approximately 15-20% of all human cancers harbor a mutation in one of these three RAS genes. These groups also estimate KRAS mutations occur in 11-14% of all human cancers. Although these estimates are lower than many commonly encountered values, these estimates continue to rank KRAS and the ensemble of RAS oncogenes among the most common genetic drivers of cancer across all forms of malignancy.
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Affiliation(s)
- Edward C Stites
- Department of Laboratory Medicine and Yale Cancer Center, Yale School of Medicine, New Haven, CT, USA.
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23
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Feng Z, Zhang X, Zhou J, Li Q, Chu L, Di G, Xu Z, Chen Q, Wang M, Jiang X, Xia H, Chen X. An in vitro-transcribed circular RNA targets the mitochondrial inner membrane cardiolipin to ablate EIF4G2 +/PTBP1 + pan-adenocarcinoma. NATURE CANCER 2024; 5:30-46. [PMID: 37845485 DOI: 10.1038/s43018-023-00650-8] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/11/2022] [Accepted: 09/07/2023] [Indexed: 10/18/2023]
Abstract
In vitro-transcribed (IVT) mRNA has arisen as a rapid method for the production of nucleic acid drugs. Here, we have constructed an oncolytic IVT mRNA that utilizes human rhinovirus type 2 (HRV2) internal ribosomal entry sites (IRESs) to selectively trigger translation in cancer cells with high expression of EIF4G2 and PTBP1. The oncolytic effect was provided by a long hGSDMDc .825 T>A/c.884 A>G-F1LCT mutant mRNA sequence with mitochondrial inner membrane cardiolipin targeting toxicity that triggers mitophagy. Utilizing the permuted intron-exon (PIE) splicing circularization strategy and lipid nanoparticle (LNP) encapsulation reduced immunogenicity of the mRNA and enabled delivery to eukaryotic cells in vivo. Engineered HRV2 IRESs-GSDMDp.D275E/E295G-F1LCT circRNA-LNPs (GSDMDENG circRNA) successfully inhibited EIF4G2+/PTBP1+ pan-adenocarcinoma xenografts growth. Importantly, in a spontaneous tumor model with abnormal EIF4G2 and PTBP1 caused by KRAS G12D mutation, GSDMDENG circRNA significantly prevented the occurrence of pancreatic, lung and colon adenocarcinoma, improved the survival rate and induced persistent KRAS G12D tumor antigen-specific cytotoxic T lymphocyte responses.
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Affiliation(s)
- Zunyong Feng
- The Translational Research Institute for Neurological Disorders & Interdisciplinary Research Center of Neuromedicine and Chemical Biology of Wannan Medical College, Department of Neurosurgery, Department of Intensive Care Medicine, the First Affiliated Hospital of Wannan Medical College (Yijishan Hospital of Wannan Medical College), Wuhu, China
- Zhongda Hospital, School of Medicine & School of Biological Sciences and Medical Engineering, Advanced Institute for Life and Health & Interdisciplinary Innovation Institute for Medicine and Engineering, Southeast University, Nanjing, China
- Departments of Diagnostic Radiology, Surgery, Chemical and Biomolecular Engineering, and Biomedical Engineering, Yong Loo Lin School of Medicine and College of Design and Engineering, National University of Singapore, Singapore, Singapore
- Clinical Imaging Research Centre, Centre for Translational Medicine, Yong Loo Lin School of Medicine, National University of Singapore, Singapore, Singapore
- Nanomedicine Translational Research Program, NUS Center for Nanomedicine, Yong Loo Lin School of Medicine, National University of Singapore, Singapore, Singapore
- Institute of Molecular and Cell Biology, Agency for Science, Technology, and Research (A*STAR), Proteos, Singapore, Singapore
| | - Xuanbo Zhang
- Departments of Diagnostic Radiology, Surgery, Chemical and Biomolecular Engineering, and Biomedical Engineering, Yong Loo Lin School of Medicine and College of Design and Engineering, National University of Singapore, Singapore, Singapore
- Clinical Imaging Research Centre, Centre for Translational Medicine, Yong Loo Lin School of Medicine, National University of Singapore, Singapore, Singapore
- Nanomedicine Translational Research Program, NUS Center for Nanomedicine, Yong Loo Lin School of Medicine, National University of Singapore, Singapore, Singapore
- Institute of Molecular and Cell Biology, Agency for Science, Technology, and Research (A*STAR), Proteos, Singapore, Singapore
| | - Jing Zhou
- Department of Anatomy, School of Basic Medicine & School of Medical Imageology, Anhui Province Key laboratory of Active Biological Macro-molecules Research, Wannan Medical College, Wuhu, China
| | - Qiang Li
- Department of Anatomy, School of Basic Medicine & School of Medical Imageology, Anhui Province Key laboratory of Active Biological Macro-molecules Research, Wannan Medical College, Wuhu, China
| | - Liuxi Chu
- Zhongda Hospital, School of Medicine & School of Biological Sciences and Medical Engineering, Advanced Institute for Life and Health & Interdisciplinary Innovation Institute for Medicine and Engineering, Southeast University, Nanjing, China
| | - Guangfu Di
- The Translational Research Institute for Neurological Disorders & Interdisciplinary Research Center of Neuromedicine and Chemical Biology of Wannan Medical College, Department of Neurosurgery, Department of Intensive Care Medicine, the First Affiliated Hospital of Wannan Medical College (Yijishan Hospital of Wannan Medical College), Wuhu, China
| | - Zhengyuan Xu
- Department of Anatomy, School of Basic Medicine & School of Medical Imageology, Anhui Province Key laboratory of Active Biological Macro-molecules Research, Wannan Medical College, Wuhu, China
| | - Qun Chen
- The Translational Research Institute for Neurological Disorders & Interdisciplinary Research Center of Neuromedicine and Chemical Biology of Wannan Medical College, Department of Neurosurgery, Department of Intensive Care Medicine, the First Affiliated Hospital of Wannan Medical College (Yijishan Hospital of Wannan Medical College), Wuhu, China
| | - Ming Wang
- Department of Neurosurgery, The Second Xiangya Hospital, Central South University, Changsha, China
| | - Xiaochun Jiang
- The Translational Research Institute for Neurological Disorders & Interdisciplinary Research Center of Neuromedicine and Chemical Biology of Wannan Medical College, Department of Neurosurgery, Department of Intensive Care Medicine, the First Affiliated Hospital of Wannan Medical College (Yijishan Hospital of Wannan Medical College), Wuhu, China.
| | - Hongping Xia
- Zhongda Hospital, School of Medicine & School of Biological Sciences and Medical Engineering, Advanced Institute for Life and Health & Interdisciplinary Innovation Institute for Medicine and Engineering, Southeast University, Nanjing, China.
- Department of Pathology, Nanjing Drum Tower Hospital Clinical College & Key Laboratory of Antibody Technique of National Health Commission & Jiangsu Antibody Drug Engineering Research Center, Nanjing Medical University, Nanjing, China.
| | - Xiaoyuan Chen
- Departments of Diagnostic Radiology, Surgery, Chemical and Biomolecular Engineering, and Biomedical Engineering, Yong Loo Lin School of Medicine and College of Design and Engineering, National University of Singapore, Singapore, Singapore.
- Clinical Imaging Research Centre, Centre for Translational Medicine, Yong Loo Lin School of Medicine, National University of Singapore, Singapore, Singapore.
- Nanomedicine Translational Research Program, NUS Center for Nanomedicine, Yong Loo Lin School of Medicine, National University of Singapore, Singapore, Singapore.
- Institute of Molecular and Cell Biology, Agency for Science, Technology, and Research (A*STAR), Proteos, Singapore, Singapore.
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24
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Hu ZI, O'Reilly EM. Therapeutic developments in pancreatic cancer. Nat Rev Gastroenterol Hepatol 2024; 21:7-24. [PMID: 37798442 DOI: 10.1038/s41575-023-00840-w] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 08/15/2023] [Indexed: 10/07/2023]
Abstract
Pancreatic ductal adenocarcinoma (PDAC) has a rising incidence and is one of the most lethal human malignancies. Much is known regarding the biology and pathophysiology of PDAC, but translating this knowledge to the clinic to improve patient outcomes has been challenging. In this Review, we discuss advances and practice-changing trials for PDAC. We briefly review therapeutic failures as well as ongoing research to refine the standard of care, including novel biomarkers and clinical trial designs. In addition, we highlight contemporary areas of research, including poly(ADP-ribose) polymerase inhibitors, KRAS-targeted therapies and immunotherapies. Finally, we discuss the future of pancreatic cancer research and areas for improvement in the next decade.
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Affiliation(s)
- Z Ian Hu
- Department of Gastrointestinal Medical Oncology, The University of Texas MD Anderson Cancer Center, Houston, TX, USA
| | - Eileen M O'Reilly
- Gastrointestinal Oncology Service, Department of Medicine, Memorial Sloan Kettering Cancer Center, New York, NY, USA.
- Weill Cornell Medical College, New York, NY, USA.
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25
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Kazi A, Ranjan A, Kumar M.V. V, Agianian B, Garcia Chavez M, Vudatha V, Wang R, Vangipurapu R, Chen L, Kennedy P, Subramanian K, Quirke JC, Beato F, Underwood PW, Fleming JB, Trevino J, Hergenrother PJ, Gavathiotis E, Sebti SM. Discovery of KRB-456, a KRAS G12D Switch-I/II Allosteric Pocket Binder That Inhibits the Growth of Pancreatic Cancer Patient-derived Tumors. CANCER RESEARCH COMMUNICATIONS 2023; 3:2623-2639. [PMID: 38051103 PMCID: PMC10754035 DOI: 10.1158/2767-9764.crc-23-0222] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/16/2023] [Revised: 08/26/2023] [Accepted: 11/15/2023] [Indexed: 12/07/2023]
Abstract
Currently, there are no clinically approved drugs that directly thwart mutant KRAS G12D, a major driver of human cancer. Here, we report on the discovery of a small molecule, KRB-456, that binds KRAS G12D and inhibits the growth of pancreatic cancer patient-derived tumors. Protein nuclear magnetic resonance studies revealed that KRB-456 binds the GDP-bound and GCP-bound conformation of KRAS G12D by forming interactions with a dynamic allosteric binding pocket within the switch-I/II region. Isothermal titration calorimetry demonstrated that KRB-456 binds potently to KRAS G12D with 1.5-, 2-, and 6-fold higher affinity than to KRAS G12V, KRAS wild-type, and KRAS G12C, respectively. KRB-456 potently inhibits the binding of KRAS G12D to the RAS-binding domain (RBD) of RAF1 as demonstrated by GST-RBD pulldown and AlphaScreen assays. Treatment of KRAS G12D-harboring human pancreatic cancer cells with KRB-456 suppresses the cellular levels of KRAS bound to GTP and inhibits the binding of KRAS to RAF1. Importantly, KRB-456 inhibits P-MEK, P-AKT, and P-S6 levels in vivo and inhibits the growth of subcutaneous and orthotopic xenografts derived from patients with pancreatic cancer whose tumors harbor KRAS G12D and KRAS G12V and who relapsed after chemotherapy and radiotherapy. These results warrant further development of KRB-456 for pancreatic cancer. SIGNIFICANCE There are no clinically approved drugs directly abrogating mutant KRAS G12D. Here, we discovered a small molecule, KRB-456, that binds a dynamic allosteric binding pocket within the switch-I/II region of KRAS G12D. KRB-456 inhibits P-MEK, P-AKT, and P-S6 levels in vivo and inhibits the growth of subcutaneous and orthotopic xenografts derived from patients with pancreatic cancer. This discovery warrants further advanced preclinical and clinical studies in pancreatic cancer.
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Affiliation(s)
- Aslamuzzaman Kazi
- Department of Pharmacology and Toxicology and Massey Comprehensive Cancer Center, Virginia Commonwealth University, Richmond, Virginia
- Drug Discovery Department, Moffitt Cancer Center, Tampa, Florida
| | - Alok Ranjan
- Department of Pharmacology and Toxicology and Massey Comprehensive Cancer Center, Virginia Commonwealth University, Richmond, Virginia
| | - Vasantha Kumar M.V.
- Department of Biochemistry, Department of Medicine, Montefiore Einstein Comprehensive Cancer Center, Albert Einstein College of Medicine, Bronx, New York
| | - Bogos Agianian
- Department of Biochemistry, Department of Medicine, Montefiore Einstein Comprehensive Cancer Center, Albert Einstein College of Medicine, Bronx, New York
| | - Martin Garcia Chavez
- Department of Chemistry, Cancer Center at Illinois, University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign, Urbana, Illinois
| | - Vignesh Vudatha
- Department of Surgery, Virginia Commonwealth University, Richmond, Virginia
| | - Rui Wang
- Department of Pharmacology and Toxicology and Massey Comprehensive Cancer Center, Virginia Commonwealth University, Richmond, Virginia
| | | | - Liwei Chen
- Drug Discovery Department, Moffitt Cancer Center, Tampa, Florida
| | - Perry Kennedy
- Drug Discovery Department, Moffitt Cancer Center, Tampa, Florida
| | - Karthikeyan Subramanian
- Department of Pharmacology and Toxicology and Massey Comprehensive Cancer Center, Virginia Commonwealth University, Richmond, Virginia
| | - Jonathan C.K. Quirke
- Department of Chemistry, Cancer Center at Illinois, University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign, Urbana, Illinois
| | - Francisca Beato
- Department of Gastrointestinal Oncology, Moffitt Cancer Center, Tampa, Florida
| | | | - Jason B. Fleming
- Department of Gastrointestinal Oncology, Moffitt Cancer Center, Tampa, Florida
| | - Jose Trevino
- Department of Surgery, Virginia Commonwealth University, Richmond, Virginia
- Department of Surgery, University of Florida, Gainesville, Florida
| | - Paul J. Hergenrother
- Department of Chemistry, Cancer Center at Illinois, University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign, Urbana, Illinois
| | - Evripidis Gavathiotis
- Department of Biochemistry, Department of Medicine, Montefiore Einstein Comprehensive Cancer Center, Albert Einstein College of Medicine, Bronx, New York
| | - Said M. Sebti
- Department of Pharmacology and Toxicology and Massey Comprehensive Cancer Center, Virginia Commonwealth University, Richmond, Virginia
- Drug Discovery Department, Moffitt Cancer Center, Tampa, Florida
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26
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Wang M, Meng G, Yang Y, Wang X, Xie R, Dong C. Telomere-to-Telomere Genome Assembly of Tibetan Medicinal Mushroom Ganoderma leucocontextum and the First Copia Centromeric Retrotransposon in Macro-Fungi Genome. J Fungi (Basel) 2023; 10:15. [PMID: 38248925 PMCID: PMC10817607 DOI: 10.3390/jof10010015] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/02/2023] [Revised: 12/18/2023] [Accepted: 12/25/2023] [Indexed: 01/23/2024] Open
Abstract
A complete telomere-to-telomere (T2T) genome has been a longstanding goal in the field of genomic research. By integrating high-coverage and precise long-read sequencing data using multiple assembly strategies, we present here the first T2T gap-free genome assembly of Ganoderma leucocontextum strain GL72, a Tibetan medicinal mushroom. The T2T genome, with a size of 46.69 Mb, consists 13 complete nuclear chromosomes and typical telomeric repeats (CCCTAA)n were detected at both ends of 13 chromosomes. The high mapping rate, uniform genome coverage, a complete BUSCOs of 99.7%, and base accuracy exceeding 99.999% indicate that this assembly represents the highest level of completeness and quality. Regions characterized by distinct structural attributes, including highest Hi-C interaction intensity, high repeat content, decreased gene density, low GC content, and minimal or no transcription levels across all chromosomes may represent potential centromeres. Sequence analysis revealed the first Copia centromeric retrotransposon in macro-fungi genome. Phylogenomic analysis identified that G. leucocontextum and G. tsugae diverged from the other Ganoderma species approximately 9.8-17.9 MYA. The prediction of secondary metabolic clusters confirmed the capability of this fungus to produce a substantial quantity of metabolites. This T2T gap-free genome will contribute to the genomic 'dark matter' elucidation and server as a great reference for genetics, genomics, and evolutionary studies of G. leucocontextum.
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Affiliation(s)
- Miao Wang
- State Key Laboratory of Mycology, Institute of Microbiology, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing 100101, China; (M.W.); (G.M.); (Y.Y.); (X.W.)
- University of Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing 100049, China
| | - Guoliang Meng
- State Key Laboratory of Mycology, Institute of Microbiology, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing 100101, China; (M.W.); (G.M.); (Y.Y.); (X.W.)
- University of Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing 100049, China
| | - Ying Yang
- State Key Laboratory of Mycology, Institute of Microbiology, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing 100101, China; (M.W.); (G.M.); (Y.Y.); (X.W.)
- University of Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing 100049, China
| | - Xiaofang Wang
- State Key Laboratory of Mycology, Institute of Microbiology, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing 100101, China; (M.W.); (G.M.); (Y.Y.); (X.W.)
| | - Rong Xie
- Institute of Vegetable Sciences, Tibet Academy of Agricultural and Animal Husbandry Sciences, Lhasa 850000, China;
| | - Caihong Dong
- State Key Laboratory of Mycology, Institute of Microbiology, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing 100101, China; (M.W.); (G.M.); (Y.Y.); (X.W.)
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27
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Yang N, Fan Z, Sun S, Hu X, Mao Y, Jia C, Cai X, Xu T, Li B, Li Y, Han L, Wei T, Qian X, Qin W, Li P, Zheng Z, Li S. Discovery of highly potent and selective KRAS G12C degraders by VHL-recruiting PROTACs for the treatment of tumors with KRAS G12C-Mutation. Eur J Med Chem 2023; 261:115857. [PMID: 37852032 DOI: 10.1016/j.ejmech.2023.115857] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/01/2023] [Revised: 09/27/2023] [Accepted: 10/04/2023] [Indexed: 10/20/2023]
Abstract
Although several covalent KRASG12C inhibitors have made great progress in the treatment of KRASG12C-mutant cancer, their clinical applications are limited by adaptive resistance, motivating novel therapeutic strategies. Through drug design and structure optimization, a series of highly potent and selective KRASG12C Proteolysis Targeting Chimeras (PROTACs) were developed by incorporating AMG510 and VHL ligand VH032. Among them, degrader YN14 significantly inhibited KRASG12C-dependent cancer cells growth with nanomolar IC50 and DC50 values, and > 95 % maximum degradation (Dmax). Molecular dynamics (MD) simulation showed that YN14 induced a stable KRASG12C: YN14: VHL ternary complex with low binding free energy (ΔG). Notably, YN14 led to tumor regression with tumor growth inhibition (TGI%) rates more than 100 % in the MIA PaCa-2 xenograft model with well-tolerated dose-schedules. We also found that KRASG12C degradation exhibited advantages in overcoming adaptive KRASG12C feedback resistance over KRASG12C inhibition. Furthermore, combination of RTKs, SHP2, or CDK9 inhibitors with YN14 exhibited synergetic efficacy in KRASG12C-mutant cancer cells. Overall, these results demonstrated that YN14 holds exciting prospects for the treatment of tumors with KRASG12C-mutation and boosted efficacy could be achieved for greater clinical applications via drug combination.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ning Yang
- National Engineering Research Center for Strategic Drugs, Beijing Institute of Pharmacology and Toxicology Institution, Beijing, 100850, China
| | - Zhiya Fan
- National Center for Protein Sciences (Beijing), Beijing Institute of Lifeomics, State Key Laboratory of Proteomics, Beijing Proteome Research Center, Beijing, 102206, China
| | - Shiyang Sun
- National Engineering Research Center for Strategic Drugs, Beijing Institute of Pharmacology and Toxicology Institution, Beijing, 100850, China
| | - Xiaotong Hu
- National Engineering Research Center for Strategic Drugs, Beijing Institute of Pharmacology and Toxicology Institution, Beijing, 100850, China
| | - Yaqiu Mao
- National Engineering Research Center for Strategic Drugs, Beijing Institute of Pharmacology and Toxicology Institution, Beijing, 100850, China
| | - Changkai Jia
- National Engineering Research Center for Strategic Drugs, Beijing Institute of Pharmacology and Toxicology Institution, Beijing, 100850, China
| | - Xu Cai
- National Engineering Research Center for Strategic Drugs, Beijing Institute of Pharmacology and Toxicology Institution, Beijing, 100850, China
| | - Tingting Xu
- National Engineering Research Center for Strategic Drugs, Beijing Institute of Pharmacology and Toxicology Institution, Beijing, 100850, China
| | - Bingkun Li
- National Engineering Research Center for Strategic Drugs, Beijing Institute of Pharmacology and Toxicology Institution, Beijing, 100850, China
| | - Yi Li
- National Engineering Research Center for Strategic Drugs, Beijing Institute of Pharmacology and Toxicology Institution, Beijing, 100850, China
| | - Luobing Han
- National Engineering Research Center for Strategic Drugs, Beijing Institute of Pharmacology and Toxicology Institution, Beijing, 100850, China
| | - Ting Wei
- National Engineering Research Center for Strategic Drugs, Beijing Institute of Pharmacology and Toxicology Institution, Beijing, 100850, China
| | - Xiaohong Qian
- National Center for Protein Sciences (Beijing), Beijing Institute of Lifeomics, State Key Laboratory of Proteomics, Beijing Proteome Research Center, Beijing, 102206, China
| | - Weijie Qin
- National Center for Protein Sciences (Beijing), Beijing Institute of Lifeomics, State Key Laboratory of Proteomics, Beijing Proteome Research Center, Beijing, 102206, China.
| | - Pengyun Li
- National Engineering Research Center for Strategic Drugs, Beijing Institute of Pharmacology and Toxicology Institution, Beijing, 100850, China.
| | - Zhibing Zheng
- National Engineering Research Center for Strategic Drugs, Beijing Institute of Pharmacology and Toxicology Institution, Beijing, 100850, China.
| | - Song Li
- National Engineering Research Center for Strategic Drugs, Beijing Institute of Pharmacology and Toxicology Institution, Beijing, 100850, China
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28
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Xiao X, Feng J, Ma J, Xia X, Liu X, Zhang J, Ding C, Pang X, Zhang A. Design, Synthesis, and Pharmacological Evaluation of Multisubstituted Pyrido[4,3- d]pyrimidine Analogues Bearing Deuterated Methylene Linkers as Potent KRAS G12D Inhibitors. J Med Chem 2023; 66:15524-15549. [PMID: 37921024 DOI: 10.1021/acs.jmedchem.3c01724] [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: 11/04/2023]
Abstract
The breakthrough in drug development of KRASG12C inhibitors provides inspiration for targeting alternative KRAS mutations, especially the most prevalent KRASG12D variant. Based on the structural analysis of MRTX1133 in complex with KRASG12D, a comprehensive structure-activity study was conducted, which led to the discovery of several compounds (22, 28, and 31) that showed higher potency in suppressing the clonogenic growth of KRASG12D-dependent cancer cells. These new compounds markedly and selectively inhibited the binding of RBD peptide to GTP-bound KRASG12D with IC50 values between 0.48 and 1.21 nM. These new inhibitors were found to have dose-dependent anti-tumor efficacy in the AsPC-1 xenograft mouse models with a tumor growth inhibition of approximately 70% at a dose of 20 mg/kg twice daily (i.p.). Despite the non-optimal pharmacokinetic properties similar to those of MRTX1133, the high in vitro and in vivo potency of these new inhibitors call for further profiling.
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Affiliation(s)
- Xuanzheng Xiao
- Shanghai Frontiers Science Center for Drug Target Identification and Delivery, School of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Shanghai Jiao Tong University, Shanghai 200240, China
- Shanghai Key Laboratory for Molecular Engineering of Chiral Drugs, Shanghai Jiao Tong University, Shanghai 200240, China
| | - Juanjuan Feng
- Shanghai Key Laboratory of Regulatory Biology and School of Life Sciences, East China Normal University, Shanghai 200241, China
| | - Jing Ma
- Shanghai Frontiers Science Center for Drug Target Identification and Delivery, School of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Shanghai Jiao Tong University, Shanghai 200240, China
| | - Xinting Xia
- Shanghai Key Laboratory of Regulatory Biology and School of Life Sciences, East China Normal University, Shanghai 200241, China
| | - Xiaogu Liu
- Southern Medical University Affiliated Fengxian Hospital, The Third School of Clinical Medicine, Southern Medical University, Guangzhou 510515, Guangdong Province, China
| | - Jian Zhang
- Shanghai Frontiers Science Center for Drug Target Identification and Delivery, School of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Shanghai Jiao Tong University, Shanghai 200240, China
- Lingang Laboratory, Shanghai 200210,China
| | - Chunyong Ding
- Shanghai Frontiers Science Center for Drug Target Identification and Delivery, School of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Shanghai Jiao Tong University, Shanghai 200240, China
- Shanghai Key Laboratory for Molecular Engineering of Chiral Drugs, Shanghai Jiao Tong University, Shanghai 200240, China
| | - Xiufeng Pang
- Shanghai Key Laboratory of Regulatory Biology and School of Life Sciences, East China Normal University, Shanghai 200241, China
| | - Ao Zhang
- Shanghai Frontiers Science Center for Drug Target Identification and Delivery, School of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Shanghai Jiao Tong University, Shanghai 200240, China
- Lingang Laboratory, Shanghai 200210,China
- Shanghai Key Laboratory for Molecular Engineering of Chiral Drugs, Shanghai Jiao Tong University, Shanghai 200240, China
- National Key Laboratory of Innovative Immunotherapy, Shanghai 200240, China
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29
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Zhao D, Liu Y, Yi F, Zhao X, Lu K. Recent advances in the development of inhibitors targeting KRAS-G12C and its related pathways. Eur J Med Chem 2023; 259:115698. [PMID: 37542991 DOI: 10.1016/j.ejmech.2023.115698] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/25/2023] [Revised: 07/28/2023] [Accepted: 07/28/2023] [Indexed: 08/07/2023]
Abstract
The RAS gene, also known as the mouse sarcoma virus, includes three genes (KRAS, HRAS, and NRAS) that are associated with human tumors. Among them, KRAS has the highest incidence of mutations in cancer, accounting for around 80% of cases. At the molecular level, the RAS gene plays a regulatory role in transcription and translation, while at the cellular level, it affects cell proliferation and migration, making it crucial for cancer development. In 2021, the FDA approved AMG510, the first direct inhibitor targeting the KRAS-G12C mutation, which has shown tumor regression, prolonged survival, and low off-target activity. However, with the increase of drug resistance, a single inhibitor is no longer sufficient to achieve the desired effect on tumors. Therefore, a large number of other highly efficient inhibitors are being developed at different stages. This article provides an overview of the mechanism of action targeting KRAS-G12C in the KRASGTP-KRASGDP cycle pathway, as well as the structure-activity relationship, structure optimization, and biological activity effects of inhibitors that target the upstream and downstream pathways, or combination therapy.
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Affiliation(s)
- Dongqiang Zhao
- China International Science and Technology Cooperation Base of Food Nutrition/Safety and Medicinal Chemistry, College of Biotechnology, Tianjin University of Science & Technology, Tianjin, 300457, China
| | - Yu Liu
- China International Science and Technology Cooperation Base of Food Nutrition/Safety and Medicinal Chemistry, College of Biotechnology, Tianjin University of Science & Technology, Tianjin, 300457, China
| | - Fengchao Yi
- China International Science and Technology Cooperation Base of Food Nutrition/Safety and Medicinal Chemistry, College of Biotechnology, Tianjin University of Science & Technology, Tianjin, 300457, China
| | - Xia Zhao
- College of Chemistry, Tianjin Key Laboratory of Structure and Performance for Functional Molecules, Tianjin Normal University, Tianjin, 300387, China
| | - Kui Lu
- China International Science and Technology Cooperation Base of Food Nutrition/Safety and Medicinal Chemistry, College of Biotechnology, Tianjin University of Science & Technology, Tianjin, 300457, China.
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30
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Huang Y, Zhen Y, Chen Y, Sui S, Zhang L. Unraveling the interplay between RAS/RAF/MEK/ERK signaling pathway and autophagy in cancer: From molecular mechanisms to targeted therapy. Biochem Pharmacol 2023; 217:115842. [PMID: 37802240 DOI: 10.1016/j.bcp.2023.115842] [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: 07/24/2023] [Revised: 09/28/2023] [Accepted: 10/02/2023] [Indexed: 10/08/2023]
Abstract
RAS/RAF/MEK/ERK signaling pathway is one of the most important pathways of Mitogen-activated protein kinases (MAPK), which widely participate in regulating cell proliferation, differentiation, apoptosis and signaling transduction. Autophagy is an essential mechanism that maintains cellular homeostasis by degrading aged and damaged organelles. Recently, some studies revealed RAS/RAF/MEK/ERK signaling pathway is closely related to autophagy regulation and has a dual effect in tumor cells. However, the specific mechanism by which RAS/RAF/MEK/ERK signaling pathway participates in autophagy regulation is not fully understood. This article provides a comprehensive review of the research progress with regard to the RAS/RAF/MEK/ERK signaling pathway and autophagy, as well as their interplay in cancer therapy. The impact of small molecule inhibitors that target the RAS/RAF/MEK/ERK signaling pathway on autophagy is discussed in this study. The advantages and limitations of the clinical combination of these small molecule inhibitors with autophagy inhibitors are also explored. The findings from this study may provide additional perspectives for future cancer treatment strategies.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yunli Huang
- Sichuan Engineering Research Center for Biomimetic Synthesis of Natural Drugs, School of Life Science and Engineering, Southwest Jiaotong University, Chengdu 610031, China
| | - Yongqi Zhen
- Department of Biotherapy, Cancer Center and State Key Laboratory of Biotherapy, West China Hospital, Sichuan University, Chengdu 610041, China
| | - Yanmei Chen
- Department of Biotherapy, Cancer Center and State Key Laboratory of Biotherapy, West China Hospital, Sichuan University, Chengdu 610041, China
| | - Shaoguang Sui
- Emergency Department, The Second Hospital, Dalian Medical University, Dalian 116000, China.
| | - Lan Zhang
- Sichuan Engineering Research Center for Biomimetic Synthesis of Natural Drugs, School of Life Science and Engineering, Southwest Jiaotong University, Chengdu 610031, China.
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Brambs CE, Horn LC, Hiller R, Krücken I, Braun C, Christmann C, Monecke A, Höhn AK. Mesonephric-like adenocarcinoma of the female genital tract: possible role of KRAS-targeted treatment-detailed molecular analysis of a case series and review of the literature for targetable somatic KRAS-mutations. J Cancer Res Clin Oncol 2023; 149:15727-15736. [PMID: 37668797 PMCID: PMC10620254 DOI: 10.1007/s00432-023-05306-9] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/02/2023] [Accepted: 08/16/2023] [Indexed: 09/06/2023]
Abstract
PURPOSE Mesonephric-like adenocarcinomas (MLA) of the female genital tract represent a rare and relatively recently described neoplasm exhibiting characteristic morphologic and immunohistochemical findings commonly associated with a KRAS-mutation. Most cases display an aggressive clinical behavior, but knowledge about treatment approaches is limited, especially for targeting KRAS. METHODS We report a series of eight cases with a detailed molecular analysis for KRAS. These cases as well as the data of previously published cases with detailed information regarding KRAS-mutational events were reviewed for a potential targeted approach and its prognostic impact. RESULTS Both the uterine and ovarian MLA harbor a somatic KRAS-mutation in about 85% of the reported cases, affecting the hotspot codons 12 and 13. 15.7% of the endometrial and 15.6% of ovarian MLA are wild type for KRAS. A p.G12A-alteration was seen in 5.6% (5/89) of the endometrial and in 6.2% (2/32) of the ovarian tumors, for p.G12C in 7.9% and 6.2%, for p.G12D in 32.6% and 34.5% and for p.G12V in 36% and 37.5%, respectively. Very limited data are available regarding the prognostic impact of different mutational sites within the KRAS-gene without significant prognostic impact. CONCLUSION Because of a specific p.G12C-KRAS somatic mutation, only the minority of MLA (7.9% with uterine and 6.2% with ovarian primary) are potentially targetable by sotarasib in that rare but aggressive subtype of adenocarcinoma of the female genital tract. Until now, the different location of a somatic KRAS-mutation is of no prognostic impact.
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Affiliation(s)
- Christine E Brambs
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Lucerne Cantonal Hospital, Spitalstrasse, 6000, Lucerne, Switzerland.
| | - Lars-Christian Horn
- Division of Gynecologic, Breast and Perinatal Pathology, Institute of Pathology, University Hospital Leipzig, Leipzig, Germany
| | - Ruth Hiller
- Division of Gynecologic, Breast and Perinatal Pathology, Institute of Pathology, University Hospital Leipzig, Leipzig, Germany
| | - Irene Krücken
- Division of Gynecologic, Breast and Perinatal Pathology, Institute of Pathology, University Hospital Leipzig, Leipzig, Germany
- Division Molecular Pathology, Institute of Pathology, University Hospital Leipzig, Leipzig, Germany
| | - Christian Braun
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Lucerne Cantonal Hospital, Spitalstrasse, 6000, Lucerne, Switzerland
| | - Corina Christmann
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Lucerne Cantonal Hospital, Spitalstrasse, 6000, Lucerne, Switzerland
| | - Astrid Monecke
- Division of Gynecologic, Breast and Perinatal Pathology, Institute of Pathology, University Hospital Leipzig, Leipzig, Germany
- Division Molecular Pathology, Institute of Pathology, University Hospital Leipzig, Leipzig, Germany
| | - Anne Kathrin Höhn
- Division of Gynecologic, Breast and Perinatal Pathology, Institute of Pathology, University Hospital Leipzig, Leipzig, Germany
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Chiarle R, Ambrogio C. Exploiting signaling rewiring in cancer cells with co-existing oncogenic drivers. Mol Oncol 2023; 17:2215-2217. [PMID: 37872865 PMCID: PMC10620112 DOI: 10.1002/1878-0261.13547] [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: 10/09/2023] [Revised: 10/22/2023] [Accepted: 10/23/2023] [Indexed: 10/25/2023] Open
Abstract
The development of tailored therapies designed to specifically target driver oncogenes has initiated a revolutionary era in cancer biology. The availability of a growing number of selective inhibitors has generated novel experimental and clinical paradigms. These represent an opportunity and a challenge for researchers and clinicians to delve deeper into the intricate dynamics of cancer development and response to treatment. By directly inhibiting key driver oncogenes involved in tumor initiation and progression, scientists have an unprecedented opportunity to conduct longitudinal and clonal evolutionary studies of how cancer cells adapt, rewire, and exploit conflictive or overlapping signaling dependencies in response to treatment in vitro and in vivo. This challenge has to be progressively resolved to discover more effective and personalized cancer therapies.
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Affiliation(s)
- Roberto Chiarle
- Department of PathologyBoston Children's Hospital and Harvard Medical SchoolBostonMAUSA
- Department of Molecular Biotechnology and Health Sciences, Molecular Biotechnology CenterUniversity of TorinoTorinoItaly
| | - Chiara Ambrogio
- Department of Molecular Biotechnology and Health Sciences, Molecular Biotechnology CenterUniversity of TorinoTorinoItaly
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33
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Zhong Y, Yang K, Qin X, Luo R, Wang H. Impact of Molecular Status on Cytoreductive Surgery for Peritoneal Metastases from Colorectal Cancer. Clin Colon Rectal Surg 2023; 36:415-422. [PMID: 37795471 PMCID: PMC10547537 DOI: 10.1055/s-0043-1767705] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/06/2023]
Abstract
Colorectal cancer peritoneal metastases (CRC-PM) are present in 5 to 15% of instances of CRC, and the overall survival (OS) of patients with CRC-PM is much lower than that of patients with other isolated metastatic locations. In recent years, the introduction of cytoreductive surgery (CRS) in conjunction with hyperthermic intraperitoneal chemotherapy has resulted in a significant improvement in CRC-PM patients' OS. Despite this, a significant proportion of CRS patients continue to suffer complications of grades III to V or even die during the perioperative period. Early diagnosis, optimization of patient selection criteria, and refining of individualized combination therapy are necessary for these patients. In this review, we evaluate studies examining the relationship between molecular status and CRS in CRC-PM. Our objective is to gain a comprehensive understanding of how the altered molecular status of CRC-PM impacts CRS, which could increase the likelihood of tailored therapy in the future.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yun Zhong
- Department of Colorectal Surgery, Sun Yat-sen University, The Sixth Affiliated Hospital, Guangzhou, China
- Department of General Surgery, Guangdong Provincial Key Laboratory of Colorectal and Pelvic Floor Diseases, The Sixth Affiliated Hospital, Sun Yat-sen University, Guangzhou, China
- Guangdong Institute of Gastroenterology, The Sixth Affiliated Hospital, Sun Yat-sen University, Guangzhou, China
- Biomedical Material Conversion and Evaluation Engineering Technology Research Center of Guangdong Province, Guangzhou, China
- Institute of Biomedical Innovation and Laboratory of Regenerative Medicine and Biomaterials, Guangzhou, China
| | - Keli Yang
- Department of Colorectal Surgery, Sun Yat-sen University, The Sixth Affiliated Hospital, Guangzhou, China
- Department of General Surgery, Guangdong Provincial Key Laboratory of Colorectal and Pelvic Floor Diseases, The Sixth Affiliated Hospital, Sun Yat-sen University, Guangzhou, China
- Guangdong Institute of Gastroenterology, The Sixth Affiliated Hospital, Sun Yat-sen University, Guangzhou, China
- Biomedical Material Conversion and Evaluation Engineering Technology Research Center of Guangdong Province, Guangzhou, China
- Institute of Biomedical Innovation and Laboratory of Regenerative Medicine and Biomaterials, Guangzhou, China
| | - Xiusen Qin
- Department of Colorectal Surgery, Sun Yat-sen University, The Sixth Affiliated Hospital, Guangzhou, China
- Department of General Surgery, Guangdong Provincial Key Laboratory of Colorectal and Pelvic Floor Diseases, The Sixth Affiliated Hospital, Sun Yat-sen University, Guangzhou, China
- Guangdong Institute of Gastroenterology, The Sixth Affiliated Hospital, Sun Yat-sen University, Guangzhou, China
- Biomedical Material Conversion and Evaluation Engineering Technology Research Center of Guangdong Province, Guangzhou, China
- Institute of Biomedical Innovation and Laboratory of Regenerative Medicine and Biomaterials, Guangzhou, China
| | - Rui Luo
- Department of Colorectal Surgery, Sun Yat-sen University, The Sixth Affiliated Hospital, Guangzhou, China
- Department of General Surgery, Guangdong Provincial Key Laboratory of Colorectal and Pelvic Floor Diseases, The Sixth Affiliated Hospital, Sun Yat-sen University, Guangzhou, China
- Guangdong Institute of Gastroenterology, The Sixth Affiliated Hospital, Sun Yat-sen University, Guangzhou, China
- Biomedical Material Conversion and Evaluation Engineering Technology Research Center of Guangdong Province, Guangzhou, China
- Institute of Biomedical Innovation and Laboratory of Regenerative Medicine and Biomaterials, Guangzhou, China
| | - Hui Wang
- Department of Colorectal Surgery, Sun Yat-sen University, The Sixth Affiliated Hospital, Guangzhou, China
- Department of General Surgery, Guangdong Provincial Key Laboratory of Colorectal and Pelvic Floor Diseases, The Sixth Affiliated Hospital, Sun Yat-sen University, Guangzhou, China
- Guangdong Institute of Gastroenterology, The Sixth Affiliated Hospital, Sun Yat-sen University, Guangzhou, China
- Biomedical Material Conversion and Evaluation Engineering Technology Research Center of Guangdong Province, Guangzhou, China
- Institute of Biomedical Innovation and Laboratory of Regenerative Medicine and Biomaterials, Guangzhou, China
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Hamilton G, Stickler S, Rath B. Integration of signaling pathway and bromodomain and extra-terminal domain inhibition for the treatment of mutant Kirsten rat sarcoma viral oncogene homolog cancer. EXPLORATION OF TARGETED ANTI-TUMOR THERAPY 2023; 4:1027-1038. [PMID: 38023987 PMCID: PMC10651355 DOI: 10.37349/etat.2023.00178] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/29/2023] [Accepted: 09/04/2023] [Indexed: 12/01/2023] Open
Abstract
Mutant Kirsten rat sarcoma viral oncogene homolog (KRAS) is now a drugable oncogenic driver and the KRAS G12C variant responds clinically to sotorasib and adagrasib that covalently block the cysteine of the active center and inhibit downstream signaling and proliferation. Unfortunately, progression-free survival (PFS) of lung cancer patients is only 5-6 months and no survival advantage has been found for sotorasib in comparison to docetaxel chemotherapy. Increased responses to KRAS inhibitors are tested in combination with the son of sevenless 1 (SOS1) inhibitors, upstream and downstream signaling modulators as well as chemotherapeutics. Some of these approaches are limited by toxicity to normal tissues and by diverse mechanisms of resistance. In essence, most of these attempts are directed to the inhibition of proliferation by impairment of the signal transduction pathways. The final target of KRAS-mediated growth stimulation is MYC in the cell nucleus that stimulates transcription of a host of genes. In detail, MYC alters genomic enhancer and super-enhancers of transcription that are frequently deregulated in cancer. Such enhancers can be targeted by bromodomain and extra-terminal (BET) inhibitors (BETi) or degraders and this review discusses whether integrated SOS1 inhibition and BET targeting of MYC synergizes against mutant KRAS tumor growth. BET degraders in the form of proteolysis-targeting chimeras (PROTACs) combined with BAY-293-mediated SOS1 inhibition revealed marked cytotoxic synergy against mutant KRAS cancer cells and may constitute a promising option for clinical treatment.
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Affiliation(s)
- Gerhard Hamilton
- Department of Pharmacology, Medical University of Vienna, A-1090 Vienna, Austria
| | - Sandra Stickler
- Department of Pharmacology, Medical University of Vienna, A-1090 Vienna, Austria
| | - Barbara Rath
- Department of Pharmacology, Medical University of Vienna, A-1090 Vienna, Austria
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35
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Martin-Vega A, Cobb MH. Navigating the ERK1/2 MAPK Cascade. Biomolecules 2023; 13:1555. [PMID: 37892237 PMCID: PMC10605237 DOI: 10.3390/biom13101555] [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: 09/30/2023] [Revised: 10/16/2023] [Accepted: 10/18/2023] [Indexed: 10/29/2023] Open
Abstract
The RAS-ERK pathway is a fundamental signaling cascade crucial for many biological processes including proliferation, cell cycle control, growth, and survival; common across all cell types. Notably, ERK1/2 are implicated in specific processes in a context-dependent manner as in stem cells and pancreatic β-cells. Alterations in the different components of this cascade result in dysregulation of the effector kinases ERK1/2 which communicate with hundreds of substrates. Aberrant activation of the pathway contributes to a range of disorders, including cancer. This review provides an overview of the structure, activation, regulation, and mutational frequency of the different tiers of the cascade; with a particular focus on ERK1/2. We highlight the importance of scaffold proteins that contribute to kinase localization and coordinate interaction dynamics of the kinases with substrates, activators, and inhibitors. Additionally, we explore innovative therapeutic approaches emphasizing promising avenues in this field.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ana Martin-Vega
- Department of Pharmacology, UT Southwestern Medical Center, 6001 Forest Park Rd., Dallas, TX 75390, USA;
| | - Melanie H. Cobb
- Department of Pharmacology, UT Southwestern Medical Center, 6001 Forest Park Rd., Dallas, TX 75390, USA;
- Simmons Comprehensive Cancer Center, UT Southwestern Medical Center, 6001 Forest Park Rd., Dallas, TX 75390, USA
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36
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Peralta S, Marcinczyk MM, Katt WP, Duhamel GE. Confirmation of canine acanthomatous ameloblastoma using RAS Q61R immunohistochemical staining of formalin-fixed paraffin-embedded tissues. Front Vet Sci 2023; 10:1281022. [PMID: 37901104 PMCID: PMC10611472 DOI: 10.3389/fvets.2023.1281022] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/21/2023] [Accepted: 10/03/2023] [Indexed: 10/31/2023] Open
Abstract
Differentiating canine acanthomatous ameloblastoma (CAA) from oral squamous cell carcinoma (OSCC) based on routine histopathology can be challenging. We have previously shown that more than 95% of CAAs harbor an HRAS p.Q61R somatic mutation, while OSCCs carry either wild-type alleles or other MAPK pathway activating mutations (e.g., HRAS p.Q61L, BRAF p.V595E). Given that HRAS p.Q61R mutations are highly prevalent in CAA, we hypothesized that a RAS Q61R-specific rabbit monoclonal antibody may be a useful tool for confirmation of CAA by immunohistochemical (IHC) staining. In the present study, we assessed IHC staining of archived formalin-fixed and paraffin-embedded biopsy samples with a diagnosis of CAA (n = 23), using a RAS Q61R-specific rabbit monoclonal antibody (SP174) and an automated IHC stainer. Negative control samples consisted of HRAS p.Q61R mutation-negative OSCC tumors with either a known HRAS p.Q61L mutation (n = 1), BRAF p.V595E mutation (n = 4), or wild-type corresponding alleles (n = 3). We found that all 23 CAAs showed diffuse and strong membranous RAS Q61R immunoreactivity (100% sensitivity), while none of the 8 OSCCs showed immunoreactivity (100% specificity). The data supports the use of RAS Q61R-specific rabbit monoclonal antibody for diagnostic IHC confirmation of CAA and ruling out OSCC in dogs.
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Affiliation(s)
- Santiago Peralta
- Department of Clinical Sciences, College of Veterinary Medicine, Cornell University, Ithaca, NY, United States
| | - Magdalena M. Marcinczyk
- Department of Biomedical Sciences and New York Animal Health Diagnostic Center, College of Veterinary Medicine, Cornell University, Ithaca, NY, United States
| | - William P. Katt
- Department of Molecular Medicine, College of Veterinary Medicine, Cornell University, Ithaca, NY, United States
| | - Gerald E. Duhamel
- Department of Biomedical Sciences and New York Animal Health Diagnostic Center, College of Veterinary Medicine, Cornell University, Ithaca, NY, United States
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37
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Ermakov MS, Kashofer K, Regauer S. Different Mutational Landscapes in Human Papillomavirus-Induced and Human Papillomavirus-Independent Invasive Penile Squamous Cell Cancers. Mod Pathol 2023; 36:100250. [PMID: 37353203 DOI: 10.1016/j.modpat.2023.100250] [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: 01/12/2023] [Revised: 05/21/2023] [Accepted: 06/14/2023] [Indexed: 06/25/2023]
Abstract
Penile squamous cell carcinomas (SCC) are rare cancers that arise after transforming human papillomavirus (HPV) infections or independent of HPV in the background of chronic dermatoses. Limited knowledge about genetic alterations driving penile carcinogenesis comes from studies of mainly small cohorts of typically mixed etiology. In this comparative genetic study of HPV-induced and HPV-independent invasive penile SCC of 156 patients from a single institution in a low-incidence country, hotspots of 50 cancer-relevant genes were analyzed with targeted next-generation sequencing. Seventy-nine of 156 SCC were classified as HPV induced, and 77 of 156 SCC arose independent of HPV. Only 28 (35%) of 79 HPV-induced penile SCC, but 69 (90%) of 77 HPV-independent SCC carried somatic gene mutations. PIK3CA, FGFR3, and FBXW7 mutations occurred in both groups in similar numbers as seen in other human cancers. In contrast, mutations in TP53 (44/77; 57%), CDKN2A (35/77; 45%), and HRAS (13/77; 17%) genes occurred with one exception of a HIV positive patient exclusively in HPV-independent SCC with a frequent co-occurrence of TP53 and CDKN2A mutations (28/77; 42%). Mutations in multiple genes occurred in 9 (11%) of 79 HPV-induced SCC versus 47 (62%) of 77 HPV-independent SCC (χ2; P < .001). More than one mutation per gene (multi hits) was characteristic for HPV-independent SCC in 14 (18%) of 77 compared with only 3 (4%) of 79 HPV-induced SCC (χ2; P < .001). The total number of mutations in HPV-induced penile SCC (47 mutations) was significantly lower than that in HPV-independent SCC (143 mutations; Welsh test; P < .001). The presence of somatic driver gene mutations did not correlate with the age of patients, histology, or tumor stage of the primary SCC in either etiologic group, suggesting that acquisition of driver gene mutations is an early event after invasion. This large cohort analysis identified characteristic differences in mutational landscapes for the 2 etiologies. While genetic mutations in tumor suppressor genes drive HPV-independent penile carcinogenesis, oncogenic action of E6 and E7 substitute for mutations in HPV-induced SCC. A subgroup of patients with advanced SCC may be candidates for targeted therapy and clinical trials, although the majority of advanced penile SCC remain a therapeutic challenge.
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Affiliation(s)
- Mikhail S Ermakov
- Diagnostic and Research Institute of Pathology, Medical University Graz, MedCampus Graz, Graz, Austria
| | - Karl Kashofer
- Diagnostic and Research Institute of Pathology, Medical University Graz, MedCampus Graz, Graz, Austria.
| | - Sigrid Regauer
- Diagnostic and Research Institute of Pathology, Medical University Graz, MedCampus Graz, Graz, Austria.
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38
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Johnson CW, Fetics SK, Davis KP, Rodrigues JA, Mattos C. Allosteric site variants affect GTP hydrolysis on Ras. Protein Sci 2023; 32:e4767. [PMID: 37615343 PMCID: PMC10510474 DOI: 10.1002/pro.4767] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/21/2023] [Revised: 08/03/2023] [Accepted: 08/21/2023] [Indexed: 08/25/2023]
Abstract
RAS GTPases are proto-oncoproteins that regulate cell growth, proliferation, and differentiation in response to extracellular signals. The signaling functions of RAS, and other small GTPases, are dependent on their ability to cycle between GDP-bound and GTP-bound states. Structural analyses suggest that GTP hydrolysis catalyzed by HRAS can be regulated by an allosteric site located between helices 3, 4, and loop 7. Here we explore the relationship between intrinsic GTP hydrolysis on HRAS and the position of helix 3 and loop 7 through manipulation of the allosteric site, showing that the two sites are functionally connected. We generated several hydrophobic mutations in the allosteric site of HRAS to promote shifts in helix 3 relative to helix 4. By combining crystallography and enzymology to study these mutants, we show that closure of the allosteric site correlates with increased hydrolysis of GTP on HRAS in solution. Interestingly, binding to the RAS binding domain of RAF kinase (RAF-RBD) inhibits GTP hydrolysis in the mutants. This behavior may be representative of a cluster of mutations found in human tumors, which potentially cooperate with RAF complex formation to stabilize the GTP-bound state of RAS.
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Affiliation(s)
- Christian W. Johnson
- Department of Chemistry and Chemical BiologyNortheastern UniversityBostonMassachusettsUSA
| | - Susan K. Fetics
- Department of Molecular and Structural BiochemistryNorth Carolina State UniversityRaleighNorth CarolinaUSA
| | - Kathleen P. Davis
- Department of Molecular and Structural BiochemistryNorth Carolina State UniversityRaleighNorth CarolinaUSA
| | - Jose A. Rodrigues
- Department of Chemistry and Chemical BiologyNortheastern UniversityBostonMassachusettsUSA
| | - Carla Mattos
- Department of Chemistry and Chemical BiologyNortheastern UniversityBostonMassachusettsUSA
- Department of Molecular and Structural BiochemistryNorth Carolina State UniversityRaleighNorth CarolinaUSA
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Yu Z, He X, Wang R, Xu X, Zhang Z, Ding K, Zhang ZM, Tan Y, Li Z. Simultaneous Covalent Modification of K-Ras(G12D) and K-Ras(G12C) with Tunable Oxirane Electrophiles. J Am Chem Soc 2023; 145:20403-20411. [PMID: 37534597 DOI: 10.1021/jacs.3c05899] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 08/04/2023]
Abstract
Owing to their remarkable pharmaceutical properties compared to those of noncovalent inhibitors, the development of targeted covalent inhibitors (TCIs) has emerged as a powerful method for cancer treatment. The K-Ras mutant, which is prevalent in multiple cancers, has been confirmed to be a crucial drug target in the treatment of various malignancies. However, although the K-Ras(G12D) mutation is present in up to 33% of K-Ras mutations, no covalent inhibitors targeting K-Ras(G12D) have been developed to date. The relatively weak nucleophilicity of the acquired aspartic acid (12D) residue in K-Ras may be the reason for this. Herein, we present the first compound capable of covalently engaging both K-Ras(G12D) and K-Ras(G12C) mutants. Proteome profiling revealed that this compound effectively conjugates with G12C and G12D residues, modulating the protein functions in situ. These findings offer a unique pathway for the development of novel dual covalent inhibitors.
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Affiliation(s)
- Zhongtang Yu
- International Cooperative Laboratory of Traditional Chinese Medicine Modernization and Innovative Drug Development (MOE), Jinan University, 601 Huangpu Avenue West, Guangzhou 510632, China
- Guangzhou City Key Laboratory of Precision Chemical Drug Development, Jinan University, 601 Huangpu Avenue West, Guangzhou 510632, China
- School of Pharmacy, Jinan University, 601 Huangpu Avenue West, Guangzhou 510632, China
| | - Xiaoqiang He
- International Cooperative Laboratory of Traditional Chinese Medicine Modernization and Innovative Drug Development (MOE), Jinan University, 601 Huangpu Avenue West, Guangzhou 510632, China
- Guangzhou City Key Laboratory of Precision Chemical Drug Development, Jinan University, 601 Huangpu Avenue West, Guangzhou 510632, China
- School of Pharmacy, Jinan University, 601 Huangpu Avenue West, Guangzhou 510632, China
| | - Ruiliu Wang
- International Cooperative Laboratory of Traditional Chinese Medicine Modernization and Innovative Drug Development (MOE), Jinan University, 601 Huangpu Avenue West, Guangzhou 510632, China
- Guangzhou City Key Laboratory of Precision Chemical Drug Development, Jinan University, 601 Huangpu Avenue West, Guangzhou 510632, China
- School of Pharmacy, Jinan University, 601 Huangpu Avenue West, Guangzhou 510632, China
| | - Xinxin Xu
- International Cooperative Laboratory of Traditional Chinese Medicine Modernization and Innovative Drug Development (MOE), Jinan University, 601 Huangpu Avenue West, Guangzhou 510632, China
- Guangzhou City Key Laboratory of Precision Chemical Drug Development, Jinan University, 601 Huangpu Avenue West, Guangzhou 510632, China
- School of Pharmacy, Jinan University, 601 Huangpu Avenue West, Guangzhou 510632, China
| | - Zhang Zhang
- International Cooperative Laboratory of Traditional Chinese Medicine Modernization and Innovative Drug Development (MOE), Jinan University, 601 Huangpu Avenue West, Guangzhou 510632, China
- Guangzhou City Key Laboratory of Precision Chemical Drug Development, Jinan University, 601 Huangpu Avenue West, Guangzhou 510632, China
- School of Pharmacy, Jinan University, 601 Huangpu Avenue West, Guangzhou 510632, China
| | - Ke Ding
- International Cooperative Laboratory of Traditional Chinese Medicine Modernization and Innovative Drug Development (MOE), Jinan University, 601 Huangpu Avenue West, Guangzhou 510632, China
- Guangzhou City Key Laboratory of Precision Chemical Drug Development, Jinan University, 601 Huangpu Avenue West, Guangzhou 510632, China
- School of Pharmacy, Jinan University, 601 Huangpu Avenue West, Guangzhou 510632, China
| | - Zhi-Min Zhang
- International Cooperative Laboratory of Traditional Chinese Medicine Modernization and Innovative Drug Development (MOE), Jinan University, 601 Huangpu Avenue West, Guangzhou 510632, China
- Guangzhou City Key Laboratory of Precision Chemical Drug Development, Jinan University, 601 Huangpu Avenue West, Guangzhou 510632, China
- School of Pharmacy, Jinan University, 601 Huangpu Avenue West, Guangzhou 510632, China
| | - Yi Tan
- International Cooperative Laboratory of Traditional Chinese Medicine Modernization and Innovative Drug Development (MOE), Jinan University, 601 Huangpu Avenue West, Guangzhou 510632, China
- Guangzhou City Key Laboratory of Precision Chemical Drug Development, Jinan University, 601 Huangpu Avenue West, Guangzhou 510632, China
- School of Pharmacy, Jinan University, 601 Huangpu Avenue West, Guangzhou 510632, China
| | - Zhengqiu Li
- International Cooperative Laboratory of Traditional Chinese Medicine Modernization and Innovative Drug Development (MOE), Jinan University, 601 Huangpu Avenue West, Guangzhou 510632, China
- MOE Key Laboratory of Tumor Molecular Biology, Jinan University, 601 Huangpu Avenue West, Guangzhou 510632, China
- Guangzhou City Key Laboratory of Precision Chemical Drug Development, Jinan University, 601 Huangpu Avenue West, Guangzhou 510632, China
- School of Pharmacy, Jinan University, 601 Huangpu Avenue West, Guangzhou 510632, China
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40
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Liu Y, Xie B, Chen Q. RAS signaling and immune cells: a sinister crosstalk in the tumor microenvironment. J Transl Med 2023; 21:595. [PMID: 37670322 PMCID: PMC10481548 DOI: 10.1186/s12967-023-04486-9] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/27/2023] [Accepted: 08/30/2023] [Indexed: 09/07/2023] Open
Abstract
The rat sarcoma virus (RAS) gene is the most commonly mutated oncogene in cancer, with about 19% of cancer patients carrying RAS mutations. Studies on the interaction between RAS mutation and tumor immune microenvironment (TIM) have been flourishing in recent years. More and more evidence has proved that RAS signals regulate immune cells' recruitment, activation, and differentiation while assisting tumor cells to evade immune surveillance. This review concluded the direct and indirect treatment strategies for RAS mutations. In addition, we updated the underlying mechanisms by which RAS signaling modulated immune infiltration and immune escape. Finally, we discussed advances in RAS-targeted immunotherapies, including cancer vaccines and adoptive cell therapies, with a particular focus on combination strategies with personalized therapy and great potential to achieve lasting clinical benefits.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yongting Liu
- Department of Geriatrics, Respiratory Medicine, Xiangya Hospital, Central South University, Changsha, 410008, China
| | - Bin Xie
- Department of Geriatrics, Respiratory Medicine, Xiangya Hospital, Central South University, Changsha, 410008, China
| | - Qiong Chen
- Department of Geriatrics, Respiratory Medicine, Xiangya Hospital, Central South University, Changsha, 410008, China.
- National Clinical Research Center for Geriatric Disorders, Xiangya Hospital, Central South University, Changsha, 410008, China.
- Xiangya Lung Cancer Center, Xiangya Hospital, Central South University, Changsha, 410008, China.
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41
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Gabryelska MM, Conn SJ. The RNA interactome in the Hallmarks of Cancer. WILEY INTERDISCIPLINARY REVIEWS. RNA 2023; 14:e1786. [PMID: 37042179 PMCID: PMC10909452 DOI: 10.1002/wrna.1786] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/24/2023] [Revised: 03/12/2023] [Accepted: 03/20/2023] [Indexed: 04/13/2023]
Abstract
Ribonucleic acid (RNA) molecules are indispensable for cellular homeostasis in healthy and malignant cells. However, the functions of RNA extend well beyond that of a protein-coding template. Rather, both coding and non-coding RNA molecules function through critical interactions with a plethora of cellular molecules, including other RNAs, DNA, and proteins. Deconvoluting this RNA interactome, including the interacting partners, the nature of the interaction, and dynamic changes of these interactions in malignancies has yielded fundamental advances in knowledge and are emerging as a novel therapeutic strategy in cancer. Here, we present an RNA-centric review of recent advances in the field of RNA-RNA, RNA-protein, and RNA-DNA interactomic network analysis and their impact across the Hallmarks of Cancer. This article is categorized under: RNA in Disease and Development > RNA in Disease RNA Interactions with Proteins and Other Molecules > RNA-Protein Complexes.
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Affiliation(s)
- Marta M Gabryelska
- Flinders Health and Medical Research Institute (FHMRI), College of Medicine and Public Health, Flinders University, Bedford Park, South Australia, Australia
| | - Simon J Conn
- Flinders Health and Medical Research Institute (FHMRI), College of Medicine and Public Health, Flinders University, Bedford Park, South Australia, Australia
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Wu X, Song W, Cheng C, Liu Z, Li X, Cui Y, Gao Y, Li D. Small molecular inhibitors for KRAS-mutant cancers. Front Immunol 2023; 14:1223433. [PMID: 37662925 PMCID: PMC10470052 DOI: 10.3389/fimmu.2023.1223433] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/16/2023] [Accepted: 07/31/2023] [Indexed: 09/05/2023] Open
Abstract
Three rat sarcoma (RAS) gene isoforms, KRAS, NRAS, and HRAS, constitute the most mutated family of small GTPases in cancer. While the development of targeted immunotherapies has led to a substantial improvement in the overall survival of patients with non-KRAS-mutant cancer, patients with RAS-mutant cancers have an overall poorer prognosis owing to the high aggressiveness of RAS-mutant tumors. KRAS mutations are strongly implicated in lung, pancreatic, and colorectal cancers. However, RAS mutations exhibit diverse patterns of isoforms, substitutions, and positions in different types of cancers. Despite being considered "undruggable", recent advances in the use of allele-specific covalent inhibitors against the most common mutant form of RAS in non-small-cell lung cancer have led to the development of effective pharmacological interventions against RAS-mutant cancer. Sotorasib (AMG510) has been approved by the FDA as a second-line treatment for patients with KRAS-G12C mutant NSCLC who have received at least one prior systemic therapy. Other KRAS inhibitors are on the way to block KRAS-mutant cancers. In this review, we summarize the progress and promise of small-molecule inhibitors in clinical trials, including direct inhibitors of KRAS, pan-RAS inhibitors, inhibitors of RAS effector signaling, and immune checkpoint inhibitors or combinations with RAS inhibitors, to improve the prognosis of tumors with RAS mutations.
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Affiliation(s)
- Xuan Wu
- Department of Internal Medicine, The Affiliated Cancer Hospital of Zhengzhou University and Henan Cancer Hospital, Zhengzhou, China
- Academy of Medical Science, Zhengzhou University, Zhengzhou, China
| | - Wenping Song
- Department of Pharmacy, The Affiliated Cancer Hospital of Zhengzhou University and Henan Cancer Hospital, Zhengzhou, China
- Henan Engineering Research Center for Tumor Precision Medicine and Comprehensive Evaluation, Henan Cancer Hospital, Zhengzhou, China
- Henan Provincial Key Laboratory of Anticancer Drug Research, Henan Cancer Hospital, Zhengzhou, China
| | - Cheng Cheng
- Department of Internal Medicine, The Affiliated Cancer Hospital of Zhengzhou University and Henan Cancer Hospital, Zhengzhou, China
| | - Ziyang Liu
- Academy of Medical Science, Zhengzhou University, Zhengzhou, China
| | - Xiang Li
- Department of Internal Medicine, The Affiliated Cancer Hospital of Zhengzhou University and Henan Cancer Hospital, Zhengzhou, China
| | - Yu Cui
- Department of Internal Medicine, The Affiliated Cancer Hospital of Zhengzhou University and Henan Cancer Hospital, Zhengzhou, China
| | - Yao Gao
- Department of Internal Medicine, The Affiliated Cancer Hospital of Zhengzhou University and Henan Cancer Hospital, Zhengzhou, China
| | - Ding Li
- Department of Pharmacy, The Affiliated Cancer Hospital of Zhengzhou University and Henan Cancer Hospital, Zhengzhou, China
- Henan Engineering Research Center for Tumor Precision Medicine and Comprehensive Evaluation, Henan Cancer Hospital, Zhengzhou, China
- Henan Provincial Key Laboratory of Anticancer Drug Research, Henan Cancer Hospital, Zhengzhou, China
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Yun SD, Scott E, Moghadamchargari Z, Laganowsky A. 2'-Deoxy Guanosine Nucleotides Alter the Biochemical Properties of Ras. Biochemistry 2023; 62:2450-2460. [PMID: 37487239 PMCID: PMC11131413 DOI: 10.1021/acs.biochem.3c00258] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 07/26/2023]
Abstract
Ras proteins in the mitogen-activated protein kinase (MAPK) signaling pathway represent one of the most frequently mutated oncogenes in cancer. Ras binds guanosine nucleotides and cycles between active (GTP) and inactive (GDP) conformations to regulate the MAPK signaling pathway. Guanosine and other nucleotides exist in cells as either 2'-hydroxy or 2'-deoxy forms, and imbalances in the deoxyribonucleotide triphosphate pool have been associated with different diseases, such as diabetes, obesity, and cancer. However, the biochemical properties of Ras bound to dGNP are not well understood. Herein, we use native mass spectrometry to monitor the intrinsic GTPase activity of H-Ras and N-Ras oncogenic mutants, revealing that the rate of 2'-deoxy guanosine triphosphate (dGTP) hydrolysis differs compared to the hydroxylated form, in some cases by seven-fold. Moreover, K-Ras expressed from HEK293 cells exhibited a higher than anticipated abundance of dGNP, despite the low abundance of dGNP in cells. Additionally, the GTPase and dGTPase activity of K-RasG12C was found to be accelerated by 10.2- and 3.8-fold in the presence of small molecule covalent inhibitors, which may open opportunities for the development of Pan-Ras inhibitors. The molecular assemblies formed between H-Ras and N-Ras, including mutant forms, with the catalytic domain of SOS (SOScat) were also investigated. The results show that the different mutants of H-Ras and N-Ras not only engage SOScat differently, but these assemblies are also dependent on the form of guanosine triphosphate bound to Ras. These findings bring to the forefront a new perspective on the nucleotide-dependent biochemical properties of Ras that may have implications for the activation of the MAPK signaling pathway and Ras-driven cancers.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sangho D. Yun
- Department of Chemistry, Texas A&M University, College Station, TX 77843
| | - Elena Scott
- Department of Chemistry, Texas A&M University, College Station, TX 77843
| | | | - Arthur Laganowsky
- Department of Chemistry, Texas A&M University, College Station, TX 77843
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Radanova M, Mihaylova G, Stoyanov GS, Draganova V, Zlatarov A, Kolev N, Dimitrova E, Conev N, Ivanova D. KRAS Mutation Status in Bulgarian Patients with Advanced and Metastatic Colorectal Cancer. Int J Mol Sci 2023; 24:12753. [PMID: 37628934 PMCID: PMC10454445 DOI: 10.3390/ijms241612753] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/04/2023] [Revised: 08/08/2023] [Accepted: 08/12/2023] [Indexed: 08/27/2023] Open
Abstract
RAS somatic variants are predictors of resistance to anti-EGFR therapy for colorectal cancer (CRC) and affect the outcome of the disease. Our study aimed to evaluate the frequency of RAS, with a focus on KRAS variants, and their association with tumor location and some clinicopathological characteristics in Bulgarian CRC patients. We prospectively investigated 236 patients with advanced and metastatic CRC. Genomic DNA was extracted from FFPE tumor tissue samples, and commercially available kits were used to detect RAS gene somatic mutations via real-time PCR. A total of 115 (48.73%) patients tested positive for RAS mutations, with 106 (44.92%) testing positive for KRAS mutations. The most common mutation in exon 2 was c.35G>T p.Gly12Val (32.56%). We did not find a significant difference in KRAS mutation frequency according to tumor location. However, patients with a mutation in exon 4 of KRAS were 3.23 times more likely to have a tumor in the rectum than in other locations (95% CI: 1.19-8.72, p = 0.021). Studying the link between tumor location and KRAS mutations in exon 4 is crucial for better characterizing CRC patients. Further research with larger cohorts, especially in rectal cancer patients, could provide valuable insights for patient follow-up and treatment selection.
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Affiliation(s)
- Maria Radanova
- Department of Biochemistry, Molecular Medicine and Nutrigenomics, Medical University of Varna, 9000 Varna, Bulgaria; (G.M.); (D.I.)
| | - Galya Mihaylova
- Department of Biochemistry, Molecular Medicine and Nutrigenomics, Medical University of Varna, 9000 Varna, Bulgaria; (G.M.); (D.I.)
| | - George St. Stoyanov
- Department of Clinical Pathology, Complex Oncology Center—Shumen, 9700 Shumen, Bulgaria;
- Department of Surgery Diseases, Medical University of Varna, 9000 Varna, Bulgaria;
| | - Vyara Draganova
- Department of Surgery Diseases, Medical University of Varna, 9000 Varna, Bulgaria;
- Second Clinic of Surgery, UMHAT “St. Marina”, 9000 Varna, Bulgaria
| | - Aleksandar Zlatarov
- Department of General and Operative Surgery, Medical University of Varna, 9000 Varna, Bulgaria; (A.Z.); (N.K.)
- First Clinic of Surgery, UMHAT “St. Marina”, 9000 Varna, Bulgaria
| | - Nikola Kolev
- Department of General and Operative Surgery, Medical University of Varna, 9000 Varna, Bulgaria; (A.Z.); (N.K.)
- First Clinic of Surgery, UMHAT “St. Marina”, 9000 Varna, Bulgaria
| | - Eleonora Dimitrova
- Department of Oncology, Medical University of Varna, 9000 Varna, Bulgaria; (E.D.); (N.C.)
- Clinic of Medical Oncology, UMHAT “St. Marina”, 9000 Varna, Bulgaria
| | - Nikolay Conev
- Department of Oncology, Medical University of Varna, 9000 Varna, Bulgaria; (E.D.); (N.C.)
- Clinic of Medical Oncology, UMHAT “St. Marina”, 9000 Varna, Bulgaria
| | - Diana Ivanova
- Department of Biochemistry, Molecular Medicine and Nutrigenomics, Medical University of Varna, 9000 Varna, Bulgaria; (G.M.); (D.I.)
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Romero JM, Titmuss E, Wang Y, Vafiadis J, Pacis A, Jang GH, Zhang A, Golesworthy B, Lenko T, Williamson LM, Grünwald B, O'Kane GM, Jones SJM, Marra MA, Wilson JM, Gallinger S, Laskin J, Zogopoulos G. Chemokine expression predicts T cell-inflammation and improved survival with checkpoint inhibition across solid cancers. NPJ Precis Oncol 2023; 7:73. [PMID: 37558751 PMCID: PMC10412582 DOI: 10.1038/s41698-023-00428-2] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/26/2022] [Accepted: 07/31/2023] [Indexed: 08/11/2023] Open
Abstract
Immune checkpoint inhibitors (ICI) are highly effective in specific cancers where canonical markers of antitumor immunity are used for patient selection. Improved predictors of T cell-inflammation are needed to identify ICI-responsive tumor subsets in additional cancer types. We investigated associations of a 4-chemokine expression signature (c-Score: CCL4, CCL5, CXCL9, CXCL10) with metrics of antitumor immunity across tumor types. Across cancer entities from The Cancer Genome Atlas, subgroups of tumors displayed high expression of the c-Score (c-Scorehi) with increased expression of immune checkpoint (IC) genes and transcriptional hallmarks of the cancer-immunity cycle. There was an incomplete association of the c-Score with high tumor mutation burden (TMB), with only 15% of c-Scorehi tumors displaying ≥10 mutations per megabase. In a heterogeneous pan-cancer cohort of 82 patients, with advanced and previously treated solid cancers, c-Scorehi tumors had a longer median time to progression (103 versus 72 days, P = 0.012) and overall survival (382 versus 196 days, P = 0.038) following ICI therapy initiation, compared to patients with low c-Score expression. We also found c-Score stratification to outperform TMB assignment for overall survival prediction (HR = 0.42 [0.22-0.79], P = 0.008 versus HR = 0.60 [0.29-1.27], P = 0.18, respectively). Assessment of the c-Score using the TIDE and PredictIO databases, which include ICI treatment outcomes from 10 tumor types, provided further support for the c-Score as a predictive ICI therapeutic biomarker. In summary, the c-Score identifies patients with hallmarks of T cell-inflammation and potential response to ICI treatment across cancer types, which is missed by TMB assignment.
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Affiliation(s)
- Joan Miguel Romero
- Research Institute of the McGill University Health Centre, Montréal, QC, Canada
- Rosalind and Morris Goodman Cancer Institute of McGill University, Montréal, QC, Canada
| | - Emma Titmuss
- Canada's Michael Smith Genome Sciences Centre at BC Cancer, Vancouver, BC, Canada
| | - Yifan Wang
- Research Institute of the McGill University Health Centre, Montréal, QC, Canada
- Rosalind and Morris Goodman Cancer Institute of McGill University, Montréal, QC, Canada
- Department of Surgery, McGill University, Montréal, QC, Canada
| | - James Vafiadis
- Research Institute of the McGill University Health Centre, Montréal, QC, Canada
- Rosalind and Morris Goodman Cancer Institute of McGill University, Montréal, QC, Canada
| | - Alain Pacis
- Rosalind and Morris Goodman Cancer Institute of McGill University, Montréal, QC, Canada
- Canadian Centre for Computational Genomics, McGill University and Genome Québec Innovation Centre, Montréal, QC, Canada
| | - Gun Ho Jang
- PanCuRx Translational Research Initiative, Ontario Institute for Cancer Research, Toronto, ON, Canada
| | - Amy Zhang
- PanCuRx Translational Research Initiative, Ontario Institute for Cancer Research, Toronto, ON, Canada
| | - Bryn Golesworthy
- Research Institute of the McGill University Health Centre, Montréal, QC, Canada
- Rosalind and Morris Goodman Cancer Institute of McGill University, Montréal, QC, Canada
| | - Tatiana Lenko
- Research Institute of the McGill University Health Centre, Montréal, QC, Canada
- Rosalind and Morris Goodman Cancer Institute of McGill University, Montréal, QC, Canada
| | - Laura M Williamson
- Canada's Michael Smith Genome Sciences Centre at BC Cancer, Vancouver, BC, Canada
| | - Barbara Grünwald
- Princess Margaret Cancer Centre, University Health Network, University of Toronto, Toronto, ON, Canada
| | - Grainne M O'Kane
- PanCuRx Translational Research Initiative, Ontario Institute for Cancer Research, Toronto, ON, Canada
- Wallace McCain Centre for Pancreatic Cancer, Princess Margaret Cancer Centre, Toronto, ON, Canada
| | - Steven J M Jones
- Department of Medical Genetics, University of British Columbia, Vancouver, BC, Canada
| | - Marco A Marra
- Department of Medical Genetics, University of British Columbia, Vancouver, BC, Canada
| | - Julie M Wilson
- PanCuRx Translational Research Initiative, Ontario Institute for Cancer Research, Toronto, ON, Canada
| | - Steven Gallinger
- PanCuRx Translational Research Initiative, Ontario Institute for Cancer Research, Toronto, ON, Canada
- Wallace McCain Centre for Pancreatic Cancer, Princess Margaret Cancer Centre, Toronto, ON, Canada
| | - Janessa Laskin
- Department of Medical Oncology, BC Cancer, Vancouver, BC, Canada
| | - George Zogopoulos
- Research Institute of the McGill University Health Centre, Montréal, QC, Canada.
- Rosalind and Morris Goodman Cancer Institute of McGill University, Montréal, QC, Canada.
- Department of Surgery, McGill University, Montréal, QC, Canada.
- Department of Oncology, McGill University, Montréal, QC, Canada.
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Soshnikova NV, Simonov YP, Feoktistov AV, Khamidullina AI, Yastrebova MA, Bayramova DO, Tatarskiy VV, Georgieva SG. New Approach for Studying of Isoforms and High-Homology Proteins in Mammalian Cells. Int J Mol Sci 2023; 24:12153. [PMID: 37569530 PMCID: PMC10419129 DOI: 10.3390/ijms241512153] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/21/2023] [Revised: 07/24/2023] [Accepted: 07/26/2023] [Indexed: 08/13/2023] Open
Abstract
In mammals, a large number of proteins are expressed as more than one isoform, resulting in the increased diversity of their proteome. Understanding the functions of isoforms is very important, since individual isoforms of the same protein can have oncogenic or pathogenic properties, or serve as disease markers. The high homology of isoforms with ubiquitous expression makes it difficult to study them. In this work, we propose a new approach for the study of protein isoforms in mammalian cells, which makes it possible to individually detect and investigate the functions of an individual isoform. The approach was developed to study the functions of isoforms of the PHF10 protein, a chromatin subunit of the PBAF remodeling complex. We demonstrated the possibility of induced simultaneous suppression of all endogenous PHF10 isoforms and the expression of a single recombinant FLAG-tagged isoform. For this purpose, we created constructs based on the pSLIK plasmid with a cloned cassette containing the recombinant gene of interest and miR30 with the corresponding shRNAs. The doxycycline-induced activation of the cassette allows on and off switching. Using this construct, we achieved the preferential expression of only one recombinant PHF10 isoform with a simultaneously reduced number of all endogenous isoforms. Our approach can be used to study the role of point mutations, the functions of individual domains and important sites, or to individually detect untagged isoforms with knockdown of all endogenous isoforms.
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Affiliation(s)
- Nataliya V. Soshnikova
- Department of Transcription Factors, Engelhardt Institute of Molecular Biology, Russian Academy of Sciences, Vavilov St. 32, Moscow 119991, Russia
- Center for Precision Genome Editing and Genetic Technologies for Biomedicine, Engelhardt Institute of Molecular Biology, Russian Academy of Sciences, Vavilov St. 32, Moscow 119991, Russia
| | - Yuriy P. Simonov
- Department of Transcription Factors, Engelhardt Institute of Molecular Biology, Russian Academy of Sciences, Vavilov St. 32, Moscow 119991, Russia
| | - Alexey V. Feoktistov
- Department of Transcription Factors, Engelhardt Institute of Molecular Biology, Russian Academy of Sciences, Vavilov St. 32, Moscow 119991, Russia
- Center for Precision Genome Editing and Genetic Technologies for Biomedicine, Engelhardt Institute of Molecular Biology, Russian Academy of Sciences, Vavilov St. 32, Moscow 119991, Russia
| | - Alvina I. Khamidullina
- Department of Molecular Oncobiology, Institute of Gene Biology, Russian Academy of Sciences, Vavilov St. 34/5, Moscow 119334, Russia
| | - Margarita A. Yastrebova
- Department of Molecular Oncobiology, Institute of Gene Biology, Russian Academy of Sciences, Vavilov St. 34/5, Moscow 119334, Russia
| | - Darya O. Bayramova
- Department of Transcription Factors, Engelhardt Institute of Molecular Biology, Russian Academy of Sciences, Vavilov St. 32, Moscow 119991, Russia
| | - Victor V. Tatarskiy
- Department of Molecular Oncobiology, Institute of Gene Biology, Russian Academy of Sciences, Vavilov St. 34/5, Moscow 119334, Russia
| | - Sofia G. Georgieva
- Department of Transcription Factors, Engelhardt Institute of Molecular Biology, Russian Academy of Sciences, Vavilov St. 32, Moscow 119991, Russia
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Shakiba Y, Vorobyev PO, Mahmoud M, Hamad A, Kochetkov DV, Yusubalieva GM, Baklaushev VP, Chumakov PM, Lipatova AV. Recombinant Strains of Oncolytic Vaccinia Virus for Cancer Immunotherapy. BIOCHEMISTRY. BIOKHIMIIA 2023; 88:823-841. [PMID: 37748878 DOI: 10.1134/s000629792306010x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/16/2023] [Revised: 04/06/2023] [Accepted: 04/24/2023] [Indexed: 09/27/2023]
Abstract
Cancer virotherapy is an alternative therapeutic approach based on the viruses that selectively infect and kill tumor cells. Vaccinia virus (VV) is a member of the Poxviridae, a family of enveloped viruses with a large linear double-stranded DNA genome. The proven safety of the VV strains as well as considerable transgene capacity of the viral genome, make VV an excellent platform for creating recombinant oncolytic viruses for cancer therapy. Furthermore, various genetic modifications can increase tumor selectivity and therapeutic efficacy of VV by arming it with the immune-modulatory genes or proapoptotic molecules, boosting the host immune system, and increasing cross-priming recognition of the tumor cells by T-cells or NK cells. In this review, we summarized the data on bioengineering approaches to develop recombinant VV strains for enhanced cancer immunotherapy.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yasmin Shakiba
- Moscow Institute of Physics and Technology, Dolgoprudny, Moscow Region, 141701, Russia.
- Engelhardt Institute of Molecular Biology, Russian Academy of Sciences, Moscow, 119991, Russia
| | - Pavel O Vorobyev
- Engelhardt Institute of Molecular Biology, Russian Academy of Sciences, Moscow, 119991, Russia.
| | - Marah Mahmoud
- Engelhardt Institute of Molecular Biology, Russian Academy of Sciences, Moscow, 119991, Russia.
| | - Azzam Hamad
- Engelhardt Institute of Molecular Biology, Russian Academy of Sciences, Moscow, 119991, Russia.
| | - Dmitriy V Kochetkov
- Engelhardt Institute of Molecular Biology, Russian Academy of Sciences, Moscow, 119991, Russia.
| | - Gaukhar M Yusubalieva
- Engelhardt Institute of Molecular Biology, Russian Academy of Sciences, Moscow, 119991, Russia.
- Federal Research Clinical Center for Specialized Medical Care and Medical Technologies, Federal Medical-Biological Agency (FMBA), Moscow, 115682, Russia
- Federal Center of Brain Research and Neurotechnologies of the FMBA of Russia, Moscow, 117513, Russia
| | - Vladimir P Baklaushev
- Engelhardt Institute of Molecular Biology, Russian Academy of Sciences, Moscow, 119991, Russia.
- Federal Research Clinical Center for Specialized Medical Care and Medical Technologies, Federal Medical-Biological Agency (FMBA), Moscow, 115682, Russia
- Federal Center of Brain Research and Neurotechnologies of the FMBA of Russia, Moscow, 117513, Russia
| | - Peter M Chumakov
- Engelhardt Institute of Molecular Biology, Russian Academy of Sciences, Moscow, 119991, Russia.
| | - Anastasia V Lipatova
- Engelhardt Institute of Molecular Biology, Russian Academy of Sciences, Moscow, 119991, Russia.
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Qi WL, Li HY, Wang Y, Xu L, Deng JT, Zhang X, Wang YX, Meng LH. Targeting PI3Kα overcomes resistance to KRas G12C inhibitors mediated by activation of EGFR and/or IGF1R. Acta Pharmacol Sin 2023; 44:1083-1094. [PMID: 36411339 PMCID: PMC10104814 DOI: 10.1038/s41401-022-01015-0] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/04/2022] [Accepted: 10/18/2022] [Indexed: 11/22/2022] Open
Abstract
Although several KRasG12C inhibitors have displayed promising efficacy in clinical settings, acquired resistance developed rapidly and circumvented the activity of KRasG12C inhibitors. To explore the mechanism rendering acquired resistance to KRasG12C inhibitors, we established a series of KRASG12C-mutant cells with acquired resistance to AMG510. We found that differential activation of receptor tyrosine kinases (RTKs) especially EGFR or IGF1R rendered resistance to AMG510 in different cellular contexts by maintaining the activation of MAPK and PI3K signaling. Simultaneous inhibition of EGFR and IGF1R restored sensitivity to AMG510 in resistant cells. PI3K integrates signals from multiple RTKs and the level of phosphorylated AKT was revealed to negatively correlate with the anti-proliferative activity of AMG510 in KRASG12C-mutant cells. Concurrently treatment of a novel PI3Kα inhibitor CYH33 with AMG510 exhibited a synergistic effect against parental and resistant KRASG12C-mutant cells in vitro and in vivo, which was accompanied with concomitant inhibition of AKT and MAPK signaling. Taken together, these findings revealed the potential mechanism rendering acquired resistance to KRasG12C inhibitors and provided a mechanistic rationale to combine PI3Kα inhibitors with KRasG12C inhibitors for therapy of KRASG12C-mutant cancers in future clinical trials.
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Affiliation(s)
- Wei-Liang Qi
- Division of Anti-tumor Pharmacology, Shanghai Institute of Materia Medica, Chinese Academy of Sciences, No.501 Haike Road, Shanghai, 201203, China
- University of Chinese Academy of Sciences, No. 19A Yuquan Road, Beijing, 100049, China
- College of Pharmacy, Nanchang University, No. 461, Bayi Road, Nanchang, 330006, China
| | - Hui-Yu Li
- Division of Anti-tumor Pharmacology, Shanghai Institute of Materia Medica, Chinese Academy of Sciences, No.501 Haike Road, Shanghai, 201203, China
- University of Chinese Academy of Sciences, No. 19A Yuquan Road, Beijing, 100049, China
| | - Yi Wang
- Division of Anti-tumor Pharmacology, Shanghai Institute of Materia Medica, Chinese Academy of Sciences, No.501 Haike Road, Shanghai, 201203, China
| | - Lan Xu
- Division of Anti-tumor Pharmacology, Shanghai Institute of Materia Medica, Chinese Academy of Sciences, No.501 Haike Road, Shanghai, 201203, China
| | - Jie-Ting Deng
- School of Chinese Materia Medica, Nanjing University of Chinese Medicine, Nanjing, 210023, China
| | - Xi Zhang
- Division of Anti-tumor Pharmacology, Shanghai Institute of Materia Medica, Chinese Academy of Sciences, No.501 Haike Road, Shanghai, 201203, China
| | - Yu-Xiang Wang
- Division of Anti-tumor Pharmacology, Shanghai Institute of Materia Medica, Chinese Academy of Sciences, No.501 Haike Road, Shanghai, 201203, China.
| | - Ling-Hua Meng
- Division of Anti-tumor Pharmacology, Shanghai Institute of Materia Medica, Chinese Academy of Sciences, No.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, Nanjing, 210023, China.
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49
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Chen C, Liu X, Chang CY, Wang HY, Wang RF. The Interplay between T Cells and Cancer: The Basis of Immunotherapy. Genes (Basel) 2023; 14:genes14051008. [PMID: 37239368 DOI: 10.3390/genes14051008] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 8.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/01/2023] [Revised: 04/17/2023] [Accepted: 04/24/2023] [Indexed: 05/28/2023] Open
Abstract
Over the past decade, immunotherapy has emerged as one of the most promising approaches to cancer treatment. The use of immune checkpoint inhibitors has resulted in impressive and durable clinical responses in the treatment of various cancers. Additionally, immunotherapy utilizing chimeric antigen receptor (CAR)-engineered T cells has produced robust responses in blood cancers, and T cell receptor (TCR)-engineered T cells are showing promising results in the treatment of solid cancers. Despite these noteworthy advancements in cancer immunotherapy, numerous challenges remain. Some patient populations are unresponsive to immune checkpoint inhibitor therapy, and CAR T cell therapy has yet to show efficacy against solid cancers. In this review, we first discuss the significant role that T cells play in the body's defense against cancer. We then delve into the mechanisms behind the current challenges facing immunotherapy, starting with T cell exhaustion due to immune checkpoint upregulation and changes in the transcriptional and epigenetic landscapes of dysfunctional T cells. We then discuss cancer-cell-intrinsic characteristics, including molecular alterations in cancer cells and the immunosuppressive nature of the tumor microenvironment (TME), which collectively facilitate tumor cell proliferation, survival, metastasis, and immune evasion. Finally, we examine recent advancements in cancer immunotherapy, with a specific emphasis on T-cell-based treatments.
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Affiliation(s)
- Christina Chen
- Department of Molecular Microbiology and Immunology, Keck School of Medicine, University of Southern California, Los Angeles, CA 90033, USA
| | - Xin Liu
- Department of Medicine, Keck School of Medicine, University of Southern California, Los Angeles, CA 90033, USA
| | - Che-Yu Chang
- Department of Molecular Microbiology and Immunology, Keck School of Medicine, University of Southern California, Los Angeles, CA 90033, USA
| | - Helen Y Wang
- Department of Medicine, Keck School of Medicine, University of Southern California, Los Angeles, CA 90033, USA
| | - Rong-Fu Wang
- Department of Medicine, Keck School of Medicine, University of Southern California, Los Angeles, CA 90033, USA
- Department of Pediatrics, Children's Hospital Los Angeles, Keck School of Medicine, University of Southern California, Los Angeles, CA 90033, USA
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50
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Perurena N, Lock R, Davis RA, Raghavan S, Pilla NF, Ng R, Loi P, Guild CJ, Miller AL, Sicinska E, Cleary JM, Rubinson DA, Wolpin BM, Gray NS, Santagata S, Hahn WC, Morton JP, Sansom OJ, Aguirre AJ, Cichowski K. USP9X mediates an acute adaptive response to MAPK suppression in pancreatic cancer but creates multiple actionable therapeutic vulnerabilities. Cell Rep Med 2023; 4:101007. [PMID: 37030295 PMCID: PMC10140597 DOI: 10.1016/j.xcrm.2023.101007] [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: 05/17/2022] [Revised: 07/18/2022] [Accepted: 03/17/2023] [Indexed: 04/10/2023]
Abstract
Pancreatic ductal adenocarcinomas (PDACs) frequently harbor KRAS mutations. Although MEK inhibitors represent a plausible therapeutic option, most PDACs are innately resistant to these agents. Here, we identify a critical adaptive response that mediates resistance. Specifically, we show that MEK inhibitors upregulate the anti-apoptotic protein Mcl-1 by triggering an association with its deubiquitinase, USP9X, resulting in acute Mcl-1 stabilization and protection from apoptosis. Notably, these findings contrast the canonical positive regulation of Mcl-1 by RAS/ERK. We further show that Mcl-1 inhibitors and cyclin-dependent kinase (CDK) inhibitors, which suppress Mcl-1 transcription, prevent this protective response and induce tumor regression when combined with MEK inhibitors. Finally, we identify USP9X as an additional potential therapeutic target. Together, these studies (1) demonstrate that USP9X regulates a critical mechanism of resistance in PDAC, (2) reveal an unexpected mechanism of Mcl-1 regulation in response to RAS pathway suppression, and (3) provide multiple distinct promising therapeutic strategies for this deadly malignancy.
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Affiliation(s)
- Naiara Perurena
- Genetics Division, Brigham and Women's Hospital, Boston, MA 02115, USA; Department of Medicine, Brigham and Women's Hospital, Boston, MA 02115, USA; Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA 02115, USA; Ludwig Center at Harvard, Boston, MA 02115, USA
| | - Rebecca Lock
- Genetics Division, Brigham and Women's Hospital, Boston, MA 02115, USA; Department of Medicine, Brigham and Women's Hospital, Boston, MA 02115, USA; Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA 02115, USA
| | - Rachel A Davis
- Genetics Division, Brigham and Women's Hospital, Boston, MA 02115, USA; Department of Medicine, Brigham and Women's Hospital, Boston, MA 02115, USA
| | - Srivatsan Raghavan
- Department of Medicine, Brigham and Women's Hospital, Boston, MA 02115, USA; Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA 02115, USA; Department of Medical Oncology, Dana-Farber Cancer Institute, Boston, MA 02215, USA; Broad Institute of MIT and Harvard, Cambridge, MA 02142, USA
| | - Natalie F Pilla
- Genetics Division, Brigham and Women's Hospital, Boston, MA 02115, USA; Department of Medicine, Brigham and Women's Hospital, Boston, MA 02115, USA
| | - Raymond Ng
- Department of Medical Oncology, Dana-Farber Cancer Institute, Boston, MA 02215, USA; Broad Institute of MIT and Harvard, Cambridge, MA 02142, USA
| | - Patrick Loi
- Genetics Division, Brigham and Women's Hospital, Boston, MA 02115, USA; Department of Medicine, Brigham and Women's Hospital, Boston, MA 02115, USA; Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA 02115, USA
| | - Caroline J Guild
- Genetics Division, Brigham and Women's Hospital, Boston, MA 02115, USA; Department of Medicine, Brigham and Women's Hospital, Boston, MA 02115, USA
| | - Abigail L Miller
- Genetics Division, Brigham and Women's Hospital, Boston, MA 02115, USA; Department of Medicine, Brigham and Women's Hospital, Boston, MA 02115, USA; Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA 02115, USA
| | - Ewa Sicinska
- Department of Oncologic Pathology, Dana Farber Cancer Institute, Boston, MA 02115, USA
| | - James M Cleary
- Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA 02115, USA; Department of Medical Oncology, Dana-Farber Cancer Institute, Boston, MA 02215, USA
| | - Douglas A Rubinson
- Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA 02115, USA; Department of Medical Oncology, Dana-Farber Cancer Institute, Boston, MA 02215, USA
| | - Brian M Wolpin
- Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA 02115, USA; Department of Medical Oncology, Dana-Farber Cancer Institute, Boston, MA 02215, USA
| | - Nathanael S Gray
- Department of Chemical and Systems Biology, Chem-H and Stanford Cancer Institute, Stanford University, Stanford, CA 94305, USA
| | - Sandro Santagata
- Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA 02115, USA; Ludwig Center at Harvard, Boston, MA 02115, USA; Department of Pathology, Brigham and Women's Hospital, Boston, MA 02115, USA
| | - William C Hahn
- Department of Medicine, Brigham and Women's Hospital, Boston, MA 02115, USA; Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA 02115, USA; Department of Medical Oncology, Dana-Farber Cancer Institute, Boston, MA 02215, USA; Broad Institute of MIT and Harvard, Cambridge, MA 02142, USA
| | - Jennifer P Morton
- Cancer Research UK Beatson Institute, Switchback Road, Bearsden, Glasgow G61 1BD, UK; Institute of Cancer Sciences, University of Glasgow, Switchback Road, Glasgow G11 1QH, UK
| | - Owen J Sansom
- Cancer Research UK Beatson Institute, Switchback Road, Bearsden, Glasgow G61 1BD, UK; Institute of Cancer Sciences, University of Glasgow, Switchback Road, Glasgow G11 1QH, UK
| | - Andrew J Aguirre
- Department of Medicine, Brigham and Women's Hospital, Boston, MA 02115, USA; Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA 02115, USA; Department of Medical Oncology, Dana-Farber Cancer Institute, Boston, MA 02215, USA; Broad Institute of MIT and Harvard, Cambridge, MA 02142, USA
| | - Karen Cichowski
- Genetics Division, Brigham and Women's Hospital, Boston, MA 02115, USA; Department of Medicine, Brigham and Women's Hospital, Boston, MA 02115, USA; Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA 02115, USA; Ludwig Center at Harvard, Boston, MA 02115, USA.
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