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Wang Q, Jin D, Liu C, Shi L, Li T. A Tumor-Specific Cascade-Activating Smart Prodrug System for Enhanced Targeted Therapy. SMALL (WEINHEIM AN DER BERGSTRASSE, GERMANY) 2024; 20:e2309482. [PMID: 38150668 DOI: 10.1002/smll.202309482] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/19/2023] [Revised: 11/28/2023] [Indexed: 12/29/2023]
Abstract
Developing intelligently targeted drugs with low side effects is urgent for cancer treatment. Toward this goal, a tumor-specific cascade-activating smart prodrug system consisting of a G-quadruplex(G4)-modulated tumor-targeted DNA vehicle and a well-designed cellular stimuli-responsive ligand-drug conjugates (LDCs) is proposed. An original "donor-acceptor" binary fluorescent ligand, with ultrahigh affinity, brightness, and photostability, is engineered to tightly bind G4 structures and significantly improve the nuclease resistance of the DNA vehicle, which serves as a bridge contributing to the construction of the prodrug system, named ApG4/LDCs. Sodium nitroprusside and doxorubicin are loaded into ApG4/LDCs in one pot and generate nitric oxide and superoxide anion in response to cancer cellular environments, which in cascade generates peroxynitrite to cause DNA damage while promoting the self-monitored drug release to achieve enhanced targeted therapy. Such a cascade activation and self-reinforcement process is executed only when the prodrug system targets the tumor tissue followed by cell uptake, showing significant antitumor efficacy and greatly weakening the damage to normal tissues. Given the unique features, the innovative strategy for prodrug design may open a new door to precision disease treatment.
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Affiliation(s)
- Qiwei Wang
- Department of Chemistry, University of Science and Technology of China, 96 Jinzhai Road, Hefei, Anhui, 230026, China
| | - Duo Jin
- Department of Chemistry, University of Science and Technology of China, 96 Jinzhai Road, Hefei, Anhui, 230026, China
| | - Chengbin Liu
- Department of Chemistry, University of Science and Technology of China, 96 Jinzhai Road, Hefei, Anhui, 230026, China
| | - Lili Shi
- Department of Chemistry, Anhui University, 111 Jiulong Road, Hefei, Anhui, 230601, China
| | - Tao Li
- Department of Chemistry, University of Science and Technology of China, 96 Jinzhai Road, Hefei, Anhui, 230026, China
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2
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Mabe NW, Perry JA, Malone CF, Stegmaier K. Pharmacological targeting of the cancer epigenome. NATURE CANCER 2024; 5:844-865. [PMID: 38937652 DOI: 10.1038/s43018-024-00777-2] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/06/2023] [Accepted: 04/19/2024] [Indexed: 06/29/2024]
Abstract
Epigenetic dysregulation is increasingly appreciated as a hallmark of cancer, including disease initiation, maintenance and therapy resistance. As a result, there have been advances in the development and evaluation of epigenetic therapies for cancer, revealing substantial promise but also challenges. Three epigenetic inhibitor classes are approved in the USA, and many more are currently undergoing clinical investigation. In this Review, we discuss recent developments for each epigenetic drug class and their implications for therapy, as well as highlight new insights into the role of epigenetics in cancer.
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Affiliation(s)
- Nathaniel W Mabe
- Department of Pediatric Oncology, Dana-Farber Cancer Institute, Boston, MA, USA
- Broad Institute of MIT and Harvard, Cambridge, MA, USA
| | - Jennifer A Perry
- Department of Pediatric Oncology, Dana-Farber Cancer Institute, Boston, MA, USA
| | - Clare F Malone
- Department of Pediatric Oncology, Dana-Farber Cancer Institute, Boston, MA, USA
- Broad Institute of MIT and Harvard, Cambridge, MA, USA
| | - Kimberly Stegmaier
- Department of Pediatric Oncology, Dana-Farber Cancer Institute, Boston, MA, USA.
- Broad Institute of MIT and Harvard, Cambridge, MA, USA.
- Division of Hematology/Oncology, Boston Children's Hospital, Boston, MA, USA.
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3
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Chen W, Wang F, Yu X, Qi J, Dong H, Cui B, Zhang Q, Wu Y, An J, Ni N, Liu C, Han Y, Zhang S, Schmitt CA, Deng J, Yu Y, Du J. LncRNA MIR31HG fosters stemness malignant features of non-small cell lung cancer via H3K4me1- and H3K27Ace-mediated GLI2 expression. Oncogene 2024; 43:1328-1340. [PMID: 37950038 PMCID: PMC11065682 DOI: 10.1038/s41388-023-02883-4] [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: 04/25/2023] [Revised: 10/18/2023] [Accepted: 10/27/2023] [Indexed: 11/12/2023]
Abstract
Non-coding RNAs are responsible for oncogenesis and the development of stemness features, including multidrug resistance and metastasis, in various cancers. Expression of lncRNA MIR31HG in lung cancer tissues and peripheral sera of lung cancer patients were remarkably higher than that of healthy individuals and indicated a poor prognosis. Functional analysis showed that MIR31HG fosters stemness-associated malignant features of non-small cell lung cancer cells. Further mechanistic investigation revealed that MIR31HG modulated GLI2 expression via WDR5/MLL3/P300 complex-mediated H3K4me and H3K27Ace modification. In vivo MIR31HG repression with an antisense oligonucleotide attenuated tumor growth and distal organ metastasis, whereas MIR31HG promotion remarkably encouraged cellular invasion in lung and liver tissues. Our data suggested that MIR31HG is a potential diagnostic indicator and druggable therapeutic target to facilitate multiple strategic treatments for lung cancer patients.
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Affiliation(s)
- Weiwei Chen
- Medical Research Center, Binzhou Medical University Hospital, Binzhou, 256600, PR China
| | - Fei Wang
- Medical Research Center, Binzhou Medical University Hospital, Binzhou, 256600, PR China
| | - Xinyuan Yu
- Department of Oncology, Binzhou Medical University Hospital, Binzhou, 256600, PR China
| | - Jingjing Qi
- Department of Hematology and Internal Oncology, Johannes Kepler University Linz, Altenbergerstraße 69, 4040, Linz, Austria
| | - Hongliang Dong
- Medical Research Center, Binzhou Medical University Hospital, Binzhou, 256600, PR China
| | - Bingjie Cui
- Medical Research Center, Binzhou Medical University Hospital, Binzhou, 256600, PR China
| | - Qian Zhang
- Department of Pathology, Binzhou Medical University Hospital, Binzhou, 256600, PR China
| | - Yan Wu
- Medical Research Center, Binzhou Medical University Hospital, Binzhou, 256600, PR China
- Department of Oncology, Binzhou Medical University Hospital, Binzhou, 256600, PR China
| | - Jiajia An
- Department of Clinical Laboratory, Binzhou Medical University Hospital, Binzhou, 256603, PR China
| | - Na Ni
- Medical Research Center, Binzhou Medical University Hospital, Binzhou, 256600, PR China
| | - Cuilan Liu
- Medical Research Center, Binzhou Medical University Hospital, Binzhou, 256600, PR China
| | - Yuchen Han
- Department of Clinical Laboratory, Binzhou Medical University Hospital, Binzhou, 256603, PR China
| | - Shuo Zhang
- Medical Research Center, Binzhou Medical University Hospital, Binzhou, 256600, PR China
- Department of Gynecology, Binzhou Medical University Hospital, Binzhou, 256600, PR China
| | - Clemens A Schmitt
- Johannes Kepler University, Altenbergerstraße 69, 4040, Linz, Austria
- Kepler University Hospital, Department of Hematology and Oncology, Krankenhausstraße 9, 4020, Linz, Austria
- Charité-Universitätsmedizin, corporate member of Freie Universität Berlin, Humboldt-Universität zu Berlin, and Berlin Institute of Health, Medical Department of Hematology, Oncology and Tumor Immunology, and Molekulares Krebsforschungszentrum - MKFZ, Campus Virchow Klinikum, 13353, Berlin, Germany
- Max-Delbrück-Center for Molecular Medicine in the Helmholtz Association, Robert-Rössle-Straße 10, 13125, Berlin, Germany
- Deutsches Konsortium für Translationale Krebsforschung (German Cancer Consortium), Partner site, Berlin, Germany
| | - Jiong Deng
- Medical Research Center, Binzhou Medical University Hospital, Binzhou, 256600, PR China.
| | - Yong Yu
- Department of Hematology and Internal Oncology, Johannes Kepler University Linz, Altenbergerstraße 69, 4040, Linz, Austria.
| | - Jing Du
- Medical Research Center, Binzhou Medical University Hospital, Binzhou, 256600, PR China.
- Department of Oncology, Binzhou Medical University Hospital, Binzhou, 256600, PR China.
- Department of Gynecology, Binzhou Medical University Hospital, Binzhou, 256600, PR China.
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4
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Kumar V, Chunchagatta Lakshman PK, Prasad TK, Manjunath K, Bairy S, Vasu AS, Ganavi B, Jasti S, Kamariah N. Target-based drug discovery: Applications of fluorescence techniques in high throughput and fragment-based screening. Heliyon 2024; 10:e23864. [PMID: 38226204 PMCID: PMC10788520 DOI: 10.1016/j.heliyon.2023.e23864] [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: 05/09/2023] [Revised: 12/14/2023] [Accepted: 12/14/2023] [Indexed: 01/17/2024] Open
Abstract
Target-based discovery of first-in-class therapeutics demands an in-depth understanding of the molecular mechanisms underlying human diseases. Precise measurements of cellular and biochemical activities are critical to gain mechanistic knowledge of biomolecules and their altered function in disease conditions. Such measurements enable the development of intervention strategies for preventing or treating diseases by modulation of desired molecular processes. Fluorescence-based techniques are routinely employed for accurate and robust measurements of in-vitro activity of molecular targets and for discovering novel chemical molecules that modulate the activity of molecular targets. In the current review, the authors focus on the applications of fluorescence-based high throughput screening (HTS) and fragment-based ligand discovery (FBLD) techniques such as fluorescence polarization (FP), Förster resonance energy transfer (FRET), fluorescence thermal shift assay (FTSA) and microscale thermophoresis (MST) for the discovery of chemical probe to exploring target's role in disease biology and ultimately, serve as a foundation for drug discovery. Some recent advancements in these techniques for compound library screening against important classes of drug targets, such as G-protein-coupled receptors (GPCRs) and GTPases, as well as phosphorylation- and acetylation-mediated protein-protein interactions, are discussed. Overall, this review presents a landscape of how these techniques paved the way for the discovery of small-molecule modulators and biologics against these targets for therapeutic benefits.
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Affiliation(s)
| | | | - Thazhe Kootteri Prasad
- Centre for Chemical Biology & Therapeutics, inStem & NCBS, Bellary Road, Bangalore, 560065, India
| | - Kavyashree Manjunath
- Centre for Chemical Biology & Therapeutics, inStem & NCBS, Bellary Road, Bangalore, 560065, India
| | - Sneha Bairy
- Centre for Chemical Biology & Therapeutics, inStem & NCBS, Bellary Road, Bangalore, 560065, India
| | - Akshaya S. Vasu
- Centre for Chemical Biology & Therapeutics, inStem & NCBS, Bellary Road, Bangalore, 560065, India
| | - B. Ganavi
- Centre for Chemical Biology & Therapeutics, inStem & NCBS, Bellary Road, Bangalore, 560065, India
| | - Subbarao Jasti
- Centre for Chemical Biology & Therapeutics, inStem & NCBS, Bellary Road, Bangalore, 560065, India
| | - Neelagandan Kamariah
- Centre for Chemical Biology & Therapeutics, inStem & NCBS, Bellary Road, Bangalore, 560065, India
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Herranz JM, López-Pascual A, Clavería-Cabello A, Uriarte I, Latasa MU, Irigaray-Miramon A, Adán-Villaescusa E, Castelló-Uribe B, Sangro B, Arechederra M, Berasain C, Avila MA, Fernández-Barrena MG. Comprehensive analysis of epigenetic and epitranscriptomic genes' expression in human NAFLD. J Physiol Biochem 2023; 79:901-924. [PMID: 37620598 PMCID: PMC10636027 DOI: 10.1007/s13105-023-00976-y] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/15/2023] [Accepted: 07/19/2023] [Indexed: 08/26/2023]
Abstract
Non-alcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD) is a multifactorial condition with a complex etiology. Its incidence is increasing globally in parallel with the obesity epidemic, and it is now considered the most common liver disease in Western countries. The precise mechanisms underlying the development and progression of NAFLD are complex and still poorly understood. The dysregulation of epigenetic and epitranscriptomic mechanisms is increasingly recognized to play pathogenic roles in multiple conditions, including chronic liver diseases. Here, we have performed a comprehensive analysis of the expression of epigenetic and epitranscriptomic genes in a total of 903 liver tissue samples corresponding to patients with normal liver, obese patients, and patients with non-alcoholic fatty liver (NAFL) and non-alcoholic steatohepatitis (NASH), advancing stages in NAFLD progression. We integrated ten transcriptomic datasets in an unbiased manner, enabling their robust analysis and comparison. We describe the complete landscape of epigenetic and epitranscriptomic genes' expression along the course of the disease. We identify signatures of genes significantly dysregulated in association with disease progression, particularly with liver fibrosis development. Most of these epigenetic and epitranscriptomic effectors have not been previously described in human NAFLD, and their altered expression may have pathogenic implications. We also performed a comprehensive analysis of the expression of enzymes involved in the metabolism of the substrates and cofactors of epigenetic and epitranscriptomic effectors. This study provides novel information on NAFLD pathogenesis and may also guide the identification of drug targets to treat this condition and its progression towards hepatocellular carcinoma.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jose M Herranz
- Hepatology Laboratory, Solid Tumors Program, CIMA, CCUN, University of Navarra, Pamplona, Spain
- CIBERehd, Instituto de Salud Carlos III, Madrid, Spain
| | - Amaya López-Pascual
- Hepatology Unit, CCUN, Navarra University Clinic, Pamplona, Spain
- Instituto de Investigaciones Sanitarias de Navarra IdiSNA, Pamplona, Spain
| | - Alex Clavería-Cabello
- Hepatology Laboratory, Solid Tumors Program, CIMA, CCUN, University of Navarra, Pamplona, Spain
| | - Iker Uriarte
- Hepatology Laboratory, Solid Tumors Program, CIMA, CCUN, University of Navarra, Pamplona, Spain
- CIBERehd, Instituto de Salud Carlos III, Madrid, Spain
| | - M Ujúe Latasa
- Hepatology Laboratory, Solid Tumors Program, CIMA, CCUN, University of Navarra, Pamplona, Spain
| | - Ainara Irigaray-Miramon
- Hepatology Laboratory, Solid Tumors Program, CIMA, CCUN, University of Navarra, Pamplona, Spain
| | - Elena Adán-Villaescusa
- Hepatology Laboratory, Solid Tumors Program, CIMA, CCUN, University of Navarra, Pamplona, Spain
| | - Borja Castelló-Uribe
- Hepatology Laboratory, Solid Tumors Program, CIMA, CCUN, University of Navarra, Pamplona, Spain
| | - Bruno Sangro
- CIBERehd, Instituto de Salud Carlos III, Madrid, Spain
- Hepatology Unit, CCUN, Navarra University Clinic, Pamplona, Spain
- Instituto de Investigaciones Sanitarias de Navarra IdiSNA, Pamplona, Spain
| | - María Arechederra
- Hepatology Laboratory, Solid Tumors Program, CIMA, CCUN, University of Navarra, Pamplona, Spain
- CIBERehd, Instituto de Salud Carlos III, Madrid, Spain
- Instituto de Investigaciones Sanitarias de Navarra IdiSNA, Pamplona, Spain
| | - Carmen Berasain
- Hepatology Laboratory, Solid Tumors Program, CIMA, CCUN, University of Navarra, Pamplona, Spain
- CIBERehd, Instituto de Salud Carlos III, Madrid, Spain
| | - Matías A Avila
- Hepatology Laboratory, Solid Tumors Program, CIMA, CCUN, University of Navarra, Pamplona, Spain
- CIBERehd, Instituto de Salud Carlos III, Madrid, Spain
- Instituto de Investigaciones Sanitarias de Navarra IdiSNA, Pamplona, Spain
| | - Maite G Fernández-Barrena
- Hepatology Laboratory, Solid Tumors Program, CIMA, CCUN, University of Navarra, Pamplona, Spain.
- CIBERehd, Instituto de Salud Carlos III, Madrid, Spain.
- Instituto de Investigaciones Sanitarias de Navarra IdiSNA, Pamplona, Spain.
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6
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Gupta MK, Peng H, Li Y, Xu CJ. The role of DNA methylation in personalized medicine for immune-related diseases. Pharmacol Ther 2023; 250:108508. [PMID: 37567513 DOI: 10.1016/j.pharmthera.2023.108508] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/01/2022] [Revised: 08/03/2023] [Accepted: 08/08/2023] [Indexed: 08/13/2023]
Abstract
Epigenetics functions as a bridge between host genetic & environmental factors, aiding in human health and diseases. Many immune-related diseases, including infectious and allergic diseases, have been linked to epigenetic mechanisms, particularly DNA methylation. In this review, we summarized an updated overview of DNA methylation and its importance in personalized medicine, and demonstrated that DNA methylation has excellent potential for disease prevention, diagnosis, and treatment in a personalized manner. The future implications and limitations of the DNA methylation study have also been well-discussed.
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Affiliation(s)
- Manoj Kumar Gupta
- Centre for Individualised Infection Medicine (CiiM), a joint venture between the Helmholtz Centre for Infection Research (HZI) and the Hannover Medical School (MHH), Hannover, Germany; TWINCORE, Centre for Experimental and Clinical Infection Research, a joint venture between the Hannover Medical School and the Helmholtz Centre for Infection Research, Hannover, Germany
| | - He Peng
- Centre for Individualised Infection Medicine (CiiM), a joint venture between the Helmholtz Centre for Infection Research (HZI) and the Hannover Medical School (MHH), Hannover, Germany; TWINCORE, Centre for Experimental and Clinical Infection Research, a joint venture between the Hannover Medical School and the Helmholtz Centre for Infection Research, Hannover, Germany
| | - Yang Li
- Centre for Individualised Infection Medicine (CiiM), a joint venture between the Helmholtz Centre for Infection Research (HZI) and the Hannover Medical School (MHH), Hannover, Germany; TWINCORE, Centre for Experimental and Clinical Infection Research, a joint venture between the Hannover Medical School and the Helmholtz Centre for Infection Research, Hannover, Germany; Department of Internal Medicine and Radboud Institute for Center for Infectious Diseases, Radboud University Medical Center, Nijmegen, the Netherlands
| | - Cheng-Jian Xu
- Centre for Individualised Infection Medicine (CiiM), a joint venture between the Helmholtz Centre for Infection Research (HZI) and the Hannover Medical School (MHH), Hannover, Germany; TWINCORE, Centre for Experimental and Clinical Infection Research, a joint venture between the Hannover Medical School and the Helmholtz Centre for Infection Research, Hannover, Germany; Department of Internal Medicine and Radboud Institute for Center for Infectious Diseases, Radboud University Medical Center, Nijmegen, the Netherlands.
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7
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Liu R, Zhao E, Yu H, Yuan C, Abbas MN, Cui H. Methylation across the central dogma in health and diseases: new therapeutic strategies. Signal Transduct Target Ther 2023; 8:310. [PMID: 37620312 PMCID: PMC10449936 DOI: 10.1038/s41392-023-01528-y] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 8.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/23/2023] [Revised: 05/23/2023] [Accepted: 05/25/2023] [Indexed: 08/26/2023] Open
Abstract
The proper transfer of genetic information from DNA to RNA to protein is essential for cell-fate control, development, and health. Methylation of DNA, RNAs, histones, and non-histone proteins is a reversible post-synthesis modification that finetunes gene expression and function in diverse physiological processes. Aberrant methylation caused by genetic mutations or environmental stimuli promotes various diseases and accelerates aging, necessitating the development of therapies to correct the disease-driver methylation imbalance. In this Review, we summarize the operating system of methylation across the central dogma, which includes writers, erasers, readers, and reader-independent outputs. We then discuss how dysregulation of the system contributes to neurological disorders, cancer, and aging. Current small-molecule compounds that target the modifiers show modest success in certain cancers. The methylome-wide action and lack of specificity lead to undesirable biological effects and cytotoxicity, limiting their therapeutic application, especially for diseases with a monogenic cause or different directions of methylation changes. Emerging tools capable of site-specific methylation manipulation hold great promise to solve this dilemma. With the refinement of delivery vehicles, these new tools are well positioned to advance the basic research and clinical translation of the methylation field.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ruochen Liu
- State Key Laboratory of Resource Insects, Medical Research Institute, Southwest University, Chongqing, 400715, China
- Jinfeng Laboratory, Chongqing, 401329, China
- Chongqing Engineering and Technology Research Center for Silk Biomaterials and Regenerative Medicine, Chongqing, 400716, China
- Engineering Research Center for Cancer Biomedical and Translational Medicine, Southwest University, Chongqing, 400715, China
| | - Erhu Zhao
- State Key Laboratory of Resource Insects, Medical Research Institute, Southwest University, Chongqing, 400715, China
- Jinfeng Laboratory, Chongqing, 401329, China
- Chongqing Engineering and Technology Research Center for Silk Biomaterials and Regenerative Medicine, Chongqing, 400716, China
- Engineering Research Center for Cancer Biomedical and Translational Medicine, Southwest University, Chongqing, 400715, China
| | - Huijuan Yu
- State Key Laboratory of Resource Insects, Medical Research Institute, Southwest University, Chongqing, 400715, China
| | - Chaoyu Yuan
- State Key Laboratory of Resource Insects, Medical Research Institute, Southwest University, Chongqing, 400715, China
| | - Muhammad Nadeem Abbas
- State Key Laboratory of Resource Insects, Medical Research Institute, Southwest University, Chongqing, 400715, China
- Jinfeng Laboratory, Chongqing, 401329, China
- Chongqing Engineering and Technology Research Center for Silk Biomaterials and Regenerative Medicine, Chongqing, 400716, China
- Engineering Research Center for Cancer Biomedical and Translational Medicine, Southwest University, Chongqing, 400715, China
| | - Hongjuan Cui
- State Key Laboratory of Resource Insects, Medical Research Institute, Southwest University, Chongqing, 400715, China.
- Jinfeng Laboratory, Chongqing, 401329, China.
- Chongqing Engineering and Technology Research Center for Silk Biomaterials and Regenerative Medicine, Chongqing, 400716, China.
- Engineering Research Center for Cancer Biomedical and Translational Medicine, Southwest University, Chongqing, 400715, China.
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Zwergel C, Fioravanti R, Mai A. PD-L1 small-molecule modulators: A new hope in epigenetic-based multidrug cancer therapy? Drug Discov Today 2023; 28:103435. [PMID: 36370994 DOI: 10.1016/j.drudis.2022.103435] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/29/2022] [Revised: 10/31/2022] [Accepted: 11/07/2022] [Indexed: 11/11/2022]
Abstract
Programmed death-ligand 1 (PD-L1) is an immune checkpoint protein the overexpression of which results in an inhibitory signal that induces T cell exhaustion responsible for immune escape in tumors. Immunotherapy strategies targeting the PD-L1 pathway have achieved remarkable success in treating various types of cancer. More recently, numerous advances in understanding the complex PD-L1 biology have been made, and the first small-molecule inhibitors have been described in the literature. In this review, we highlight the most promising recent advances in understanding the complex regulation mechanisms focusing on small-molecule modulators, which could be used in rational therapy combinations with other epigenetic chemotherapeutic agents.
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Affiliation(s)
- Clemens Zwergel
- Department of Drug Chemistry and Technologies, Department of Excellence 2018-2022, Sapienza University of Rome, Piazzale Aldo Moro 5, 00185 Rome, Italy.
| | - Rossella Fioravanti
- Department of Drug Chemistry and Technologies, Department of Excellence 2018-2022, Sapienza University of Rome, Piazzale Aldo Moro 5, 00185 Rome, Italy
| | - Antonello Mai
- Department of Drug Chemistry and Technologies, Department of Excellence 2018-2022, Sapienza University of Rome, Piazzale Aldo Moro 5, 00185 Rome, Italy; Pasteur Institute, Cenci-Bolognetti Foundation, Sapienza University of Rome, Piazzale Aldo Moro 5, 00185 Rome, Italy.
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9
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Jiang K, Guo H, Zhai J. Interplay of phytohormones and epigenetic regulation: A recipe for plant development and plasticity. JOURNAL OF INTEGRATIVE PLANT BIOLOGY 2023; 65:381-398. [PMID: 36223083 DOI: 10.1111/jipb.13384] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/20/2022] [Accepted: 10/10/2022] [Indexed: 06/16/2023]
Abstract
Both phytohormone signaling and epigenetic mechanisms have long been known to play crucial roles in plant development and plasticity in response to ambient stimuli. Indeed, diverse signaling pathways mediated by phytohormones and epigenetic processes integrate multiple upstream signals to regulate various plant traits. Emerging evidence indicates that phytohormones and epigenetic processes interact at multiple levels. In this review, we summarize the current knowledge of the interplay between phytohormones and epigenetic processes from the perspective of phytohormone biology. We also review chemical regulators used in epigenetic studies and propose strategies for developing novel regulators using multidisciplinary approaches.
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Affiliation(s)
- Kai Jiang
- Institute of Plant and Food Science, Key Laboratory of Molecular Design for Plant Cell Factory of Guangdong Higher Education Institutes, Department of Biology, School of Life Sciences, Southern University of Science and Technology (SUSTech), Shenzhen, 518055, China
| | - Hongwei Guo
- Institute of Plant and Food Science, Key Laboratory of Molecular Design for Plant Cell Factory of Guangdong Higher Education Institutes, Department of Biology, School of Life Sciences, Southern University of Science and Technology (SUSTech), Shenzhen, 518055, China
| | - Jixian Zhai
- Institute of Plant and Food Science, Key Laboratory of Molecular Design for Plant Cell Factory of Guangdong Higher Education Institutes, Department of Biology, School of Life Sciences, Southern University of Science and Technology (SUSTech), Shenzhen, 518055, China
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10
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Chromatin complex dependencies reveal targeting opportunities in leukemia. Nat Commun 2023; 14:448. [PMID: 36707513 PMCID: PMC9883437 DOI: 10.1038/s41467-023-36150-7] [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: 09/19/2022] [Accepted: 01/18/2023] [Indexed: 01/28/2023] Open
Abstract
Chromatin regulators are frequently mutated in human cancer and are attractive drug targets. They include diverse proteins that share functional domains and assemble into related multi-subunit complexes. To investigate functional relationships among these regulators, here we apply combinatorial CRISPR knockouts (KOs) to test over 35,000 gene-gene pairings in leukemia cells, using a library of over 300,000 constructs. Top pairs that demonstrate either compensatory non-lethal interactions or synergistic lethality enrich for paralogs and targets that occupy the same protein complex. The screen highlights protein complex dependencies not apparent in single KO screens, for example MCM histone exchange, the nucleosome remodeling and deacetylase (NuRD) complex, and HBO1 (KAT7) complex. We explore two approaches to NuRD complex inactivation. Paralog and non-paralog combinations of the KAT7 complex emerge as synergistic lethal and specifically nominate the ING5 PHD domain as a potential therapeutic target when paired with other KAT7 complex member losses. These findings highlight the power of combinatorial screening to provide mechanistic insight and identify therapeutic targets within redundant networks.
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11
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Yang Q, Gao Y, Liu X, Xiao Y, Wu M. A General Method to Edit Histone H3 Modifications on Chromatin Via Sortase-Mediated Metathesis. Angew Chem Int Ed Engl 2022; 61:e202209945. [PMID: 36305862 DOI: 10.1002/anie.202209945] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/07/2022] [Indexed: 11/07/2022]
Abstract
The post-translational modifications (PTMs) on the tail of histone H3 control chromatin structure and influence epigenetics and gene expression. The current chemical methods including unnatural amino acid incorporation and protein splicing enable preparations of the histone with diverse PTMs in cellular contexts, but they are not applicable to edit native chromatin. The manipulation of histone-modifying enzymes alter the endogenous histone PTMs but the lack of specificity of most histone-modifying enzymes prevents precise control of specific H3 tail PTM patterns. Here we report a new method to edit the N-tail of histone H3 via sortase mediated metathesis (SMM). The sortase can install desired PTM patterns into histone H3 on nucleosomes in vitro and in cellulo. This study expands the application scope of sortase from ligation to metathesis in live cells using cell-penetrating peptides (CPPs). In addition, it offers a strategy to edit PTMs of cellular histone H3 with potential for the development of precise epigenome editing.
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Affiliation(s)
- Qingyun Yang
- Department of Chemistry, Zhejiang University, 310027, Hangzhou, Zhejiang Province, China.,Department of Chemistry, School of Science, Westlake University, 600 Dunyu Road, 310030, Hangzhou, Zhejiang Province, China.,Institute of Natural Sciences, Westlake Institute for Advanced Study, 18 Shilongshan Road, 310024, Hangzhou, Zhejiang Province, China
| | - Yingxiao Gao
- Department of Chemistry, School of Science, Westlake University, 600 Dunyu Road, 310030, Hangzhou, Zhejiang Province, China.,Institute of Natural Sciences, Westlake Institute for Advanced Study, 18 Shilongshan Road, 310024, Hangzhou, Zhejiang Province, China.,Department of Chemistry, Fudan University, 200438, Shanghai, China
| | - Xia Liu
- Department of Chemistry, School of Science, Westlake University, 600 Dunyu Road, 310030, Hangzhou, Zhejiang Province, China.,Institute of Natural Sciences, Westlake Institute for Advanced Study, 18 Shilongshan Road, 310024, Hangzhou, Zhejiang Province, China
| | - Yihang Xiao
- Department of Chemistry, Zhejiang University, 310027, Hangzhou, Zhejiang Province, China.,Department of Chemistry, School of Science, Westlake University, 600 Dunyu Road, 310030, Hangzhou, Zhejiang Province, China.,Institute of Natural Sciences, Westlake Institute for Advanced Study, 18 Shilongshan Road, 310024, Hangzhou, Zhejiang Province, China
| | - Mingxuan Wu
- Department of Chemistry, School of Science, Westlake University, 600 Dunyu Road, 310030, Hangzhou, Zhejiang Province, China.,Institute of Natural Sciences, Westlake Institute for Advanced Study, 18 Shilongshan Road, 310024, Hangzhou, Zhejiang Province, China.,Westlake Laboratory of Life Sciences and Biomedicine, 310024, Hangzhou, Zhejiang Province, China
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12
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Curcumin: An epigenetic regulator and its application in cancer. Biomed Pharmacother 2022; 156:113956. [DOI: 10.1016/j.biopha.2022.113956] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/16/2022] [Revised: 10/31/2022] [Accepted: 11/01/2022] [Indexed: 11/06/2022] Open
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Němec V, Schwalm MP, Müller S, Knapp S. PROTAC degraders as chemical probes for studying target biology and target validation. Chem Soc Rev 2022; 51:7971-7993. [PMID: 36004812 DOI: 10.1039/d2cs00478j] [Citation(s) in RCA: 26] [Impact Index Per Article: 13.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/21/2022]
Abstract
Small molecule degraders such as PROTACs (PROteolysis TArgeting Chimeras) have emerged as new promising pharmacological modalities and the first PROTAC drug candidates are now studied clinically. The catalytic properties of PROTACs, acting as chemical degraders of a protein of interest (POI), represent an attractive new strategy for drug development. The development and characterization of PROTACs requires an array of additional assay systems that track the degradation pathway leading ultimately to degradation of the POI, identifying critical steps for PROTAC optimization. In addition to their exciting translational potential, PROTACs represent versatile chemical tools that considerably expanded our chemical biology toolbox and significantly enlarged the proteome that can be modulated by small molecules. Similar to conventional chemical probes, PROTACs used as chemical probes in target validation require comprehensive characterization. As a consequence, PROTAC-specific quality criteria should be defined by the chemical biology community. These criteria need to comprise additional or alternative parameters compared to those for conventional occupancy-driven chemical probes, such as the maximum level of target degradation (Dmax), confirmation of a proteasome dependent degradation mechanism and, importantly, also kinetic parameters of POI degradation. The kinetic aspects are particularly relevant for PROTACs that harbor covalent binding moieties. Here, we review recent progress in the development of assay systems for PROTAC characterization and suggest a set of criteria for PROTACs as high quality chemical probes.
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Affiliation(s)
- Václav Němec
- Institut für Pharmazeutische Chemie, Goethe-University Frankfurt, Biozentrum, Max-von-Laue-Str. 9, 60438 Frankfurt am Main, Germany. .,Structural Genomics Consortium, Goethe-University Frankfurt, Buchmann Institute for Life Sciences, Max-von-Laue-Str. 15, 60438 Frankfurt am Main, Germany
| | - Martin P Schwalm
- Institut für Pharmazeutische Chemie, Goethe-University Frankfurt, Biozentrum, Max-von-Laue-Str. 9, 60438 Frankfurt am Main, Germany. .,Structural Genomics Consortium, Goethe-University Frankfurt, Buchmann Institute for Life Sciences, Max-von-Laue-Str. 15, 60438 Frankfurt am Main, Germany
| | - Susanne Müller
- Institut für Pharmazeutische Chemie, Goethe-University Frankfurt, Biozentrum, Max-von-Laue-Str. 9, 60438 Frankfurt am Main, Germany. .,Structural Genomics Consortium, Goethe-University Frankfurt, Buchmann Institute for Life Sciences, Max-von-Laue-Str. 15, 60438 Frankfurt am Main, Germany
| | - Stefan Knapp
- Institut für Pharmazeutische Chemie, Goethe-University Frankfurt, Biozentrum, Max-von-Laue-Str. 9, 60438 Frankfurt am Main, Germany. .,Structural Genomics Consortium, Goethe-University Frankfurt, Buchmann Institute for Life Sciences, Max-von-Laue-Str. 15, 60438 Frankfurt am Main, Germany.,German Cancer Consortium (DKTK)/German Cancer Research Center (DKFZ), DKTK site Frankfurt-Mainz, 69120 Heidelberg, Germany
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Ishii H, Shibuya M, Kusano K, Sone Y, Kamiya T, Wakuno A, Ito H, Miyata K, Sato F, Kuroda T, Yamada M, Leung GNW. Pharmacokinetic Study of Vadadustat and High-Resolution Mass Spectrometric Characterization of its Novel Metabolites in Equines for the Purpose of Doping Control. Curr Drug Metab 2022; 23:850-865. [PMID: 36017833 DOI: 10.2174/1389200223666220825093945] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/08/2022] [Revised: 06/08/2022] [Accepted: 06/17/2022] [Indexed: 01/05/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Vadadustat, a hypoxia-inducible factor prolyl hydroxylase (HIF-PHD) inhibitor, is a substance which carries a lifetime ban in both horse racing and equestrian competition. A comprehensive metabolic study of vadadustat in horses has not been previously reported. OBJECTIVE Metabolism and elimination profiles of vadadustat in equine plasma and urine were studied for the purpose of doping control. METHODS A nasoesophageal administration of vadadustat (3 g/day for 3 days) was conducted on three thoroughbred mares. Potential metabolites were comprehensively detected by differential analysis of full-scan mass spectral data obtained from both in vitro studies with liver homogenates and post-administration samples using liquid chromatography high-resolution mass spectrometry. The identities of metabolites were further substantiated by product ion scans. Quantification methods were developed and validated for the establishment of the excretion profiles of the total vadadustat (free and conjugates) in plasma and urine. RESULTS A total of 23 in vivo and 14 in vitro metabolites (12 in common) were identified after comprehensive analysis. We found that vadadustat was mainly excreted into urine as the parent drug together with some minor conjugated metabolites. The elimination profiles of total vadadustat in post-administration plasma and urine were successfully established by using quantification methods equipped with alkaline hydrolysis for cleavage of conjugates such as methylated vadadustat, vadadustat glucuronide, and vadadustat glucoside. CONCLUSION Based on our study, for effective control of the misuse or abuse of vadadustat in horses, total vadadustat could successfully be detected for up to two weeks after administration in plasma and urine.
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Affiliation(s)
- Hideaki Ishii
- Drug Analysis Department, Laboratory of Racing Chemistry, 1731-2 Tsuruta-machi, Utsunomiya, Tochigi, Zip 320-0851, Japan.,Department of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Tohoku University Hospital, 1-1 Seiryo-machi, Aoba-ku, Sendai, Miyagi, Zip 980-8574, Japan
| | - Mariko Shibuya
- Drug Analysis Department, Laboratory of Racing Chemistry, 1731-2 Tsuruta-machi, Utsunomiya, Tochigi, Zip 320-0851, Japan
| | - Kanichi Kusano
- Veterinarian Section, Equine Department, Japan Racing Association, 6-11-1 Roppongi, Minato-ku, Tokyo, Zip 105-0003, Japan
| | - Yu Sone
- Veterinarian Section, Equine Department, Japan Racing Association, 6-11-1 Roppongi, Minato-ku, Tokyo, Zip 105-0003, Japan
| | - Takahiro Kamiya
- Equine Veterinary Clinic, Horse Racing School, Japan Racing Association, 835-1 Ne, Shiroi, Chiba, Zip 270-1431, Japan
| | - Ai Wakuno
- Equine Veterinary Clinic, Horse Racing School, Japan Racing Association, 835-1 Ne, Shiroi, Chiba, Zip 270-1431, Japan
| | - Hideki Ito
- Equine Veterinary Clinic, Horse Racing School, Japan Racing Association, 835-1 Ne, Shiroi, Chiba, Zip 270-1431, Japan
| | - Kenji Miyata
- JRA Equestrian Park Utsunomiya Office, 321-4 Tokamicho, Utsunomiya, Tochigi, Zip 320-0856, Japan
| | - Fumio Sato
- Clinical Veterinary Medicine Division, Equine Research Institute, Japan Racing Association, 1400-4, Shiba, Shimotsuke, Tochigi, Zip 329-0412, Japan
| | - Taisuke Kuroda
- Clinical Veterinary Medicine Division, Equine Research Institute, Japan Racing Association, 1400-4, Shiba, Shimotsuke, Tochigi, Zip 329-0412, Japan
| | - Masayuki Yamada
- Drug Analysis Department, Laboratory of Racing Chemistry, 1731-2 Tsuruta-machi, Utsunomiya, Tochigi, Zip 320-0851, Japan
| | - Gary Ngai-Wa Leung
- Drug Analysis Department, Laboratory of Racing Chemistry, 1731-2 Tsuruta-machi, Utsunomiya, Tochigi, Zip 320-0851, Japan
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7-Aminoalkoxy-Quinazolines from Epigenetic Focused Libraries Are Potent and Selective Inhibitors of DNA Methyltransferase 1. Molecules 2022; 27:molecules27092892. [PMID: 35566242 PMCID: PMC9102847 DOI: 10.3390/molecules27092892] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/10/2022] [Revised: 04/24/2022] [Accepted: 04/30/2022] [Indexed: 11/17/2022] Open
Abstract
Inhibitors of epigenetic writers such as DNA methyltransferases (DNMTs) are attractive compounds for epigenetic drug and probe discovery. To advance epigenetic probes and drug discovery, chemical companies are developing focused libraries for epigenetic targets. Based on a knowledge-based approach, herein we report the identification of two quinazoline-based derivatives identified in focused libraries with sub-micromolar inhibition of DNMT1 (30 and 81 nM), more potent than S-adenosylhomocysteine. Also, both compounds had a low micromolar affinity of DNMT3A and did not inhibit DNMT3B. The enzymatic inhibitory activity of DNMT1 and DNMT3A was rationalized with molecular modeling. The quinazolines reported in this work are known to have low cell toxicity and be potent inhibitors of the epigenetic target G9a. Therefore, the quinazoline-based compounds presented are attractive not only as novel potent inhibitors of DNMTs but also as dual and selective epigenetic agents targeting two families of epigenetic writers.
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