1
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Li Y, Yang L, Li X, Zhang X. Inhibition of GTPase KRAS G12D: a review of patent literature. Expert Opin Ther Pat 2024; 34:701-721. [PMID: 38884569 DOI: 10.1080/13543776.2024.2369630] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/03/2024] [Accepted: 06/14/2024] [Indexed: 06/18/2024]
Abstract
INTRODUCTION KRAS is a critical oncogenic protein intricately involved in tumor progression, and the difficulty in targeting KRAS has led it to be classified as an 'undruggable target.' Among the various KRAS mutations, KRASG12D is highly prevalent and represents a promising therapeutic target, yet there are currently no approved inhibitors for it. AREA COVERED This review summarizes numerous patents and literature featuring inhibitors or degraders of KRASG12D through searching relevant information in PubMed, SciFinder and Web of Science databases from 2021 to February 2024, providing an overview of the research progress on inhibiting KRASG12D in terms of design strategies, chemical structures, biological activities, and clinical advancements. EXPERT OPINION Since the approval of AMG510 (Sotorasib), there has been an increasing focus on the inhibition of KRASG12D, leading to numerous reports of related inhibitors and degraders. Among them, MRTX1133, as the first KRASG12D inhibitor to enter clinical trials, has demonstrated excellent tumor suppression in various KRASG12D-bearing human tumor xenograft models. It is important to note, however, that understanding the mechanisms of acquired resistance caused by KRAS inhibition and developing additional combination therapies is crucial. Moreover, seeking covalent inhibition of KRASG12D also holds significant potential.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yuhang Li
- Department of Chemistry, China Pharmaceutical University, Nanjing, China
| | - Le Yang
- Department of Chemistry, China Pharmaceutical University, Nanjing, China
| | - Xiaoran Li
- Department of Chemistry, China Pharmaceutical University, Nanjing, China
- AceMapAI Joint Lab, China Pharmaceutical University, Nanjing, China
| | - Xiaojin Zhang
- Department of Chemistry, China Pharmaceutical University, Nanjing, China
- AceMapAI Joint Lab, China Pharmaceutical University, Nanjing, China
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2
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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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3
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Singhal A, Li BT, O'Reilly EM. Targeting KRAS in cancer. Nat Med 2024; 30:969-983. [PMID: 38637634 DOI: 10.1038/s41591-024-02903-0] [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: 01/04/2024] [Accepted: 03/04/2024] [Indexed: 04/20/2024]
Abstract
RAS family variants-most of which involve KRAS-are the most commonly occurring hotspot mutations in human cancers and are associated with a poor prognosis. For almost four decades, KRAS has been considered undruggable, in part due to its structure, which lacks small-molecule binding sites. But recent developments in bioengineering, organic chemistry and related fields have provided the infrastructure to make direct KRAS targeting possible. The first successes occurred with allele-specific targeting of KRAS p.Gly12Cys (G12C) in non-small cell lung cancer, resulting in regulatory approval of two agents-sotorasib and adagrasib. Inhibitors targeting other variants beyond G12C have shown preliminary antitumor activity in highly refractory malignancies such as pancreatic cancer. Herein, we outline RAS pathobiology with a focus on KRAS, illustrate therapeutic approaches across a variety of malignancies, including emphasis on the 'on' and 'off' switch allele-specific and 'pan' RAS inhibitors, and review immunotherapeutic and other key combination RAS targeting strategies. We summarize mechanistic understanding of de novo and acquired resistance, review combination approaches, emerging technologies and drug development paradigms and outline a blueprint for the future of KRAS therapeutics with anticipated profound clinical impact.
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Affiliation(s)
- Anupriya Singhal
- Gastrointestinal Oncology Service, Memorial Sloan Kettering Cancer Center, New York, NY, USA
- David M. Rubenstein Center for Pancreatic Cancer, Memorial Sloan Kettering Cancer Center, New York, NY, USA
| | - Bob T Li
- Thoracic Oncology Service, Memorial Sloan Kettering Cancer Center, New York, NY, USA
- Early Drug Development Service, Memorial Sloan Kettering Cancer Center, New York, NY, USA
- Weill Cornell Medicine, New York, NY, USA
| | - Eileen M O'Reilly
- Gastrointestinal Oncology Service, Memorial Sloan Kettering Cancer Center, New York, NY, USA.
- David M. Rubenstein Center for Pancreatic Cancer, Memorial Sloan Kettering Cancer Center, New York, NY, USA.
- Weill Cornell Medicine, New York, NY, USA.
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4
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Gurwitz D, Shomron N. Artificial intelligence utility for drug development: ChatGPT and beyond. Drug Dev Res 2024; 85:e22121. [PMID: 37815084 DOI: 10.1002/ddr.22121] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/19/2023] [Revised: 09/20/2023] [Accepted: 10/02/2023] [Indexed: 10/11/2023]
Affiliation(s)
- David Gurwitz
- Department of Human Molecular Genetics and Biochemistry, Faculty of Medicine, Tel Aviv University, Tel Aviv, Israel
- Sagol School of Neuroscience, Tel Aviv, Israel
| | - Noam Shomron
- Sagol School of Neuroscience, Tel Aviv, Israel
- Department of Cell and Developmental Biology, Faculty of Medicine, Tel Aviv University, Tel Aviv, Israel
- Edmond J Safra Center for Bioinformatics, Tel Aviv University, Tel Aviv, Israel
- Tel Aviv University Innovation Labs (TILabs), Tel Aviv, Israel
- Djerassi Institute of Oncology, Tel Aviv University, Tel Aviv, Israel
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5
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Lim TKH, Skoulidis F, Kerr KM, Ahn MJ, Kapp JR, Soares FA, Yatabe Y. KRAS G12C in advanced NSCLC: Prevalence, co-mutations, and testing. Lung Cancer 2023; 184:107293. [PMID: 37683526 DOI: 10.1016/j.lungcan.2023.107293] [Citation(s) in RCA: 16] [Impact Index Per Article: 16.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/21/2023] [Revised: 06/15/2023] [Accepted: 07/05/2023] [Indexed: 09/10/2023]
Abstract
KRAS is the most commonly mutated oncogene in advanced, non-squamous, non-small cell lung cancer (NSCLC) in Western countries. Of the various KRAS mutants, KRAS G12C is the most common variant (~40%), representing 10-13% of advanced non-squamous NSCLC. Recent regulatory approvals of the KRASG12C-selective inhibitors sotorasib and adagrasib for patients with advanced or metastatic NSCLC harboring KRASG12C have transformed KRAS into a druggable target. In this review, we explore the evolving role of KRAS from a prognostic to a predictive biomarker in advanced NSCLC, discussing KRAS G12C biology, real-world prevalence, clinical relevance of co-mutations, and approaches to molecular testing. Real-world evidence demonstrates significant geographic differences in KRAS G12C prevalence (8.9-19.5% in the US, 9.3-18.4% in Europe, 6.9-9.0% in Latin America, and 1.4-4.3% in Asia) in advanced NSCLC. Additionally, the body of clinical data pertaining to KRAS G12C co-mutations such as STK11, KEAP1, and TP53 is increasing. In real-world evidence, KRAS G12C-mutant NSCLC was associated with STK11, KEAP1, and TP53 co-mutations in 10.3-28.0%, 6.3-23.0%, and 17.8-50.0% of patients, respectively. Whilst sotorasib and adagrasib are currently approved for use in the second-line setting and beyond for patients with advanced/metastatic NSCLC, testing and reporting of the KRAS G12C variant should be included in routine biomarker testing prior to first-line therapy. KRAS G12C test results should be clearly documented in patients' health records for actionability at progression. Where available, next-generation sequencing is recommended to facilitate simultaneous testing of potentially actionable biomarkers in a single run to conserve tissue. Results from molecular testing should inform clinical decisions in treating patients with KRAS G12C-mutated advanced NSCLC.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Ferdinandos Skoulidis
- Department of Thoracic/Head and Neck Medical Oncology, The University of Texas MD Anderson Cancer Center, Houston, TX, USA
| | - Keith M Kerr
- Department of Pathology, Aberdeen University Medical School and Aberdeen Royal Infirmary, Aberdeen, UK
| | - Myung-Ju Ahn
- Department of Medicine, Samsung Medical Center Sungkyunkwan University School of Medicine, Seoul, Republic of Korea
| | | | - Fernando A Soares
- D'Or Institute for Research and Education (IDOR), São Paulo, Brazil; Faculty of Dentistry, University of São Paulo, São Paulo, Brazil
| | - Yasushi Yatabe
- Department of Diagnostic Pathology, National Cancer Center, Tokyo, Japan.
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6
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Goebel L, Kirschner T, Koska S, Rai A, Janning P, Maffini S, Vatheuer H, Czodrowski P, Goody RS, Müller MP, Rauh D. Targeting oncogenic KRasG13C with nucleotide-based covalent inhibitors. eLife 2023; 12:82184. [PMID: 36972177 PMCID: PMC10042540 DOI: 10.7554/elife.82184] [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: 07/26/2022] [Accepted: 03/03/2023] [Indexed: 03/29/2023] Open
Abstract
Mutations within Ras proteins represent major drivers in human cancer. In this study, we report the structure-based design, synthesis, as well as biochemical and cellular evaluation of nucleotide-based covalent inhibitors for KRasG13C, an important oncogenic mutant of Ras that has not been successfully addressed in the past. Mass spectrometry experiments and kinetic studies reveal promising molecular properties of these covalent inhibitors, and X-ray crystallographic analysis has yielded the first reported crystal structures of KRasG13C covalently locked with these GDP analogues. Importantly, KRasG13C covalently modified with these inhibitors can no longer undergo SOS-catalysed nucleotide exchange. As a final proof-of-concept, we show that in contrast to KRasG13C, the covalently locked protein is unable to induce oncogenic signalling in cells, further highlighting the possibility of using nucleotide-based inhibitors with covalent warheads in KRasG13C-driven cancer.
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Affiliation(s)
- Lisa Goebel
- Department of Chemistry and Chemical Biology, TU Dortmund University, Dortmund, Germany
| | - Tonia Kirschner
- Department of Chemistry and Chemical Biology, TU Dortmund University, Dortmund, Germany
| | - Sandra Koska
- Department of Chemistry and Chemical Biology, TU Dortmund University, Dortmund, Germany
| | - Amrita Rai
- Department of Structural Biochemistry, Max Planck Institute of Molecular Physiology, Dortmund, Germany
| | - Petra Janning
- Department of Chemical Biology, Max Planck Institute of Molecular Physiology, Dortmund, Germany
| | - Stefano Maffini
- Department of Mechanistic Cell Biology, Max Planck Institute of Molecular Physiology, Dortmund, Germany
| | - Helge Vatheuer
- Department of Chemistry and Chemical Biology, TU Dortmund University, Dortmund, Germany
| | - Paul Czodrowski
- Department of Chemistry and Chemical Biology, TU Dortmund University, Dortmund, Germany
| | - Roger S Goody
- Department of Structural Biochemistry, Max Planck Institute of Molecular Physiology, Dortmund, Germany
| | - Matthias P Müller
- Department of Chemistry and Chemical Biology, TU Dortmund University, Dortmund, Germany
| | - Daniel Rauh
- Department of Chemistry and Chemical Biology, TU Dortmund University, Dortmund, Germany
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7
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Zhao Z, Bohidar N, Bourne PE. Analysis of KRAS-Ligand Interaction Modes and Flexibilities Reveals the Binding Characteristics. J Chem Inf Model 2023; 63:1362-1370. [PMID: 36780612 DOI: 10.1021/acs.jcim.3c00097] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 02/15/2023]
Abstract
KRAS, a common human oncogene, has been recognized as a critical drug target in treating multiple cancers. After four decades of effort, one allosteric KRAS drug (Sotorasib) has been approved, inspiring more KRAS-targeted drug research. Here, we provide the features of KRAS binding pockets and ligand-binding characteristics of KRAS complexes using a structural systems pharmacology approach. Three distinct binding sites (conserved nucleotide-binding site, shallow Switch-I/II pocket, and allosteric Switch-II/α3 pocket) are characterized. Ligand-binding features are determined based on encoded KRAS-inhibitor interaction fingerprints. Finally, the flexibility of the three distinct binding sites to accommodate different potential ligands, based on MD simulation, is discussed. Collectively, these findings are intended to facilitate rational KRAS drug design.
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Affiliation(s)
- Zheng Zhao
- School of Data Science, University of Virginia, Charlottesville, Virginia 22904, United States.,Department of Biomedical Engineering, University of Virginia, Charlottesville, Virginia 22904, United States
| | - Niraja Bohidar
- School of Data Science, University of Virginia, Charlottesville, Virginia 22904, United States
| | - Philip E Bourne
- School of Data Science, University of Virginia, Charlottesville, Virginia 22904, United States.,Department of Biomedical Engineering, University of Virginia, Charlottesville, Virginia 22904, United States
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8
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Borsari C, Keles E, McPhail JA, Schaefer A, Sriramaratnam R, Goch W, Schaefer T, De Pascale M, Bal W, Gstaiger M, Burke JE, Wymann MP. Covalent Proximity Scanning of a Distal Cysteine to Target PI3Kα. J Am Chem Soc 2022; 144:6326-6342. [PMID: 35353516 PMCID: PMC9011356 DOI: 10.1021/jacs.1c13568] [Citation(s) in RCA: 24] [Impact Index Per Article: 12.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/13/2022]
Abstract
![]()
Covalent protein
kinase inhibitors exploit currently noncatalytic
cysteines in the adenosine 5′-triphosphate (ATP)-binding site
via electrophiles directly appended to a reversible-inhibitor scaffold.
Here, we delineate a path to target solvent-exposed cysteines at a
distance >10 Å from an ATP-site-directed core module and produce
potent covalent phosphoinositide 3-kinase α (PI3Kα) inhibitors.
First, reactive warheads are used to reach out to Cys862 on PI3Kα,
and second, enones are replaced with druglike warheads while linkers
are optimized. The systematic investigation of intrinsic warhead reactivity
(kchem), rate of covalent bond formation
and proximity (kinact and reaction space
volume Vr), and integration of structure
data, kinetic and structural modeling, led to the guided identification
of high-quality, covalent chemical probes. A novel stochastic approach
provided direct access to the calculation of overall reaction rates
as a function of kchem, kinact, Ki, and Vr, which was validated with compounds with varied linker
lengths. X-ray crystallography, protein mass spectrometry (MS), and
NanoBRET assays confirmed covalent bond formation of the acrylamide
warhead and Cys862. In rat liver microsomes, compounds 19 and 22 outperformed the rapidly metabolized CNX-1351,
the only known PI3Kα irreversible inhibitor. Washout experiments
in cancer cell lines with mutated, constitutively activated PI3Kα
showed a long-lasting inhibition of PI3Kα. In SKOV3 cells, compounds 19 and 22 revealed PI3Kβ-dependent signaling,
which was sensitive to TGX221. Compounds 19 and 22 thus qualify as specific chemical probes to explore PI3Kα-selective
signaling branches. The proposed approach is generally suited to develop
covalent tools targeting distal, unexplored Cys residues in biologically
active enzymes.
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Affiliation(s)
- Chiara Borsari
- Department of Biomedicine, University of Basel, Mattenstrasse 28, 4058 Basel, Switzerland
| | - Erhan Keles
- Department of Biomedicine, University of Basel, Mattenstrasse 28, 4058 Basel, Switzerland
| | - Jacob A McPhail
- Department of Biochemistry and Microbiology, University of Victoria, Victoria, British Columbia V8W 2Y2, Canada
| | - Alexander Schaefer
- Department of Biology, Institute of Molecular Systems Biology, ETH Zurich, Otto-Stern-Weg 3, 8093 Zürich, Switzerland
| | - Rohitha Sriramaratnam
- Department of Biomedicine, University of Basel, Mattenstrasse 28, 4058 Basel, Switzerland
| | - Wojciech Goch
- Department of Physical Chemistry, Faculty of Pharmacy, Medical University of Warsaw, 02-097 Warsaw, Poland
| | - Thorsten Schaefer
- Department of Biomedicine, University of Basel, Mattenstrasse 28, 4058 Basel, Switzerland
| | - Martina De Pascale
- Department of Biomedicine, University of Basel, Mattenstrasse 28, 4058 Basel, Switzerland
| | - Wojciech Bal
- Institute of Biochemistry and Biophysics, Polish Academy of Sciences, 02-106 Warsaw, Poland
| | - Matthias Gstaiger
- Department of Biology, Institute of Molecular Systems Biology, ETH Zurich, Otto-Stern-Weg 3, 8093 Zürich, Switzerland
| | - John E Burke
- Department of Biochemistry and Microbiology, University of Victoria, Victoria, British Columbia V8W 2Y2, Canada
| | - Matthias P Wymann
- Department of Biomedicine, University of Basel, Mattenstrasse 28, 4058 Basel, Switzerland
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9
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Fumagalli G, Carbajo RJ, Nissink JWM, Tart J, Dou R, Thomas AP, Spring DR. Targeting a Novel KRAS Binding Site: Application of One-Component Stapling of Small (5-6-mer) Peptides. J Med Chem 2021; 64:17287-17303. [PMID: 34787423 DOI: 10.1021/acs.jmedchem.1c01334] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 02/07/2023]
Abstract
RAS proteins are central in the proliferation of many types of cancer, but a general approach toward the identification of pan-mutant RAS inhibitors has remained unresolved. In this work, we describe the application of a binding pharmacophore identified from analysis of known RAS binding peptides to the design of novel peptides. Using a chemically divergent approach, we generated a library of small stapled peptides from which we identified compounds with weak binding activity. Exploration of structure-activity relationships (SARs) and optimization of these early compounds led to low-micromolar binders of KRAS that block nucleotide exchange.
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Affiliation(s)
- Gabriele Fumagalli
- Department of Chemistry, Cambridge University, Lensfield Road, Cambridge CB2 1EW, U.K.,Chemistry, Oncology R&D, AstraZeneca, Cambridge CB4 0WG, U.K
| | | | | | - Jonathan Tart
- Discovery Sciences, BioPharmaceuticals R&D, AstraZeneca, Cambridge CB4 0WG, U.K
| | - Rongxuan Dou
- Department of Chemistry, Cambridge University, Lensfield Road, Cambridge CB2 1EW, U.K
| | - Andrew P Thomas
- Chemistry, Oncology R&D, AstraZeneca, Cambridge CB4 0WG, U.K
| | - David R Spring
- Department of Chemistry, Cambridge University, Lensfield Road, Cambridge CB2 1EW, U.K
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10
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Bannoura SF, Uddin MH, Nagasaka M, Fazili F, Al-Hallak MN, Philip PA, El-Rayes B, Azmi AS. Targeting KRAS in pancreatic cancer: new drugs on the horizon. Cancer Metastasis Rev 2021; 40:819-835. [PMID: 34499267 PMCID: PMC8556325 DOI: 10.1007/s10555-021-09990-2] [Citation(s) in RCA: 35] [Impact Index Per Article: 11.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/06/2021] [Accepted: 08/27/2021] [Indexed: 02/07/2023]
Abstract
Kirsten Rat Sarcoma (KRAS) is a master oncogene involved in cellular proliferation and survival and is the most commonly mutated oncogene in all cancers. Activating KRAS mutations are present in over 90% of pancreatic ductal adenocarcinoma (PDAC) cases and are implicated in tumor initiation and progression. Although KRAS is a critical oncogene, and therefore an important therapeutic target, its therapeutic inhibition has been very challenging, and only recently specific mutant KRAS inhibitors have been discovered. In this review, we discuss the activation of KRAS signaling and the role of mutant KRAS in PDAC development. KRAS has long been considered undruggable, and many drug discovery efforts which focused on indirect targeting have been unsuccessful. We discuss the various efforts for therapeutic targeting of KRAS. Further, we explore the reasons behind these obstacles, novel successful approaches to target mutant KRAS including G12C mutation as well as the mechanisms of resistance.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sahar F Bannoura
- Department of Oncology, Karmanos Cancer Institute, Wayne State University School of Medicine, Detroit, MI, 48201, USA
| | - Md Hafiz Uddin
- Department of Oncology, Karmanos Cancer Institute, Wayne State University School of Medicine, Detroit, MI, 48201, USA
| | - Misako Nagasaka
- Division of Hematology/Oncology, Department of Medicine, UCI Health, Orange, CA, 92868, USA
| | - Farzeen Fazili
- Department of Oncology, Karmanos Cancer Institute, Wayne State University School of Medicine, Detroit, MI, 48201, USA
| | - Mohammed Najeeb Al-Hallak
- Department of Oncology, Karmanos Cancer Institute, Wayne State University School of Medicine, Detroit, MI, 48201, USA
| | - Philip A Philip
- Department of Oncology, Karmanos Cancer Institute, Wayne State University School of Medicine, Detroit, MI, 48201, USA
| | - Bassel El-Rayes
- Winship Cancer Institute, Emory University, Atlanta, GA, 30322, USA
| | - Asfar S Azmi
- Department of Oncology, Karmanos Cancer Institute, Wayne State University School of Medicine, Detroit, MI, 48201, USA.
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11
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Chen H, Smaill JB, Liu T, Ding K, Lu X. Small-Molecule Inhibitors Directly Targeting KRAS as Anticancer Therapeutics. J Med Chem 2020; 63:14404-14424. [PMID: 33225706 DOI: 10.1021/acs.jmedchem.0c01312] [Citation(s) in RCA: 53] [Impact Index Per Article: 13.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 02/07/2023]
Abstract
KRAS, the most frequently mutated oncogene, plays a predominant role in driving initiation and progression of cancers. Decades of effort to target KRAS using small molecules has been unsuccessful, causing KRAS to be considered an "undruggable" cancer target. However, this view began to change recently, as drug discovery techniques have developed several KRAS G12C allosteric inhibitors that are currently being evaluated in clinical trials. Herein we provide an in-depth analysis of the structure and binding pockets of KRAS, medicinal chemistry optimization processes, and the biological characterization of small-molecule inhibitors that directly target KRAS, including covalent allosteric inhibitors specific for the G12C mutant, GTP-competitive inhibitors targeting the nucleotide-binding site, and protein-protein interaction inhibitors that bind in the switch I/II pocket or the A59 site. Additionally, we propose potential challenges faced by these new classes of KRAS inhibitors under clinical evaluation.
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Affiliation(s)
- Hao Chen
- International Cooperative Laboratory of Traditional Chinese Medicine Modernization and Innovative Drug Discovery of Chinese Ministry of Education (MOE), Guangzhou City Key Laboratory of Precision Chemical Drug Development, School of Pharmacy, Jinan University, 601 Huangpu Avenue West, Guangzhou 510632, China
| | - Jeff B Smaill
- Auckland Cancer Society Research Centre, School of Medical Sciences, The University of Auckland, Private Bag 92019, Auckland 1142, New Zealand
| | - Tongzheng Liu
- International Cooperative Laboratory of Traditional Chinese Medicine Modernization and Innovative Drug Discovery of Chinese Ministry of Education (MOE), Guangzhou City Key Laboratory of Precision Chemical Drug Development, 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 Discovery of Chinese Ministry of Education (MOE), Guangzhou City Key Laboratory of Precision Chemical Drug Development, School of Pharmacy, Jinan University, 601 Huangpu Avenue West, Guangzhou 510632, China
| | - Xiaoyun Lu
- International Cooperative Laboratory of Traditional Chinese Medicine Modernization and Innovative Drug Discovery of Chinese Ministry of Education (MOE), Guangzhou City Key Laboratory of Precision Chemical Drug Development, School of Pharmacy, Jinan University, 601 Huangpu Avenue West, Guangzhou 510632, China
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12
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Gasper R, Wittinghofer F. The Ras switch in structural and historical perspective. Biol Chem 2020; 401:143-163. [PMID: 31600136 DOI: 10.1515/hsz-2019-0330] [Citation(s) in RCA: 47] [Impact Index Per Article: 11.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/31/2019] [Accepted: 09/23/2019] [Indexed: 12/22/2022]
Abstract
Since its discovery as an oncogene more than 40 years ago, Ras has been and still is in the focus of many academic and pharmaceutical labs around the world. A huge amount of work has accumulated on its biology. However, many questions about the role of the different Ras isoforms in health and disease still exist and a full understanding will require more intensive work in the future. Here we try to survey some of the structural findings in a historical perspective and how it has influenced our understanding of structure-function and mechanistic relationships of Ras and its interactions. The structures show that Ras is a stable molecular machine that uses the dynamics of its switch regions for the interaction with all regulators and effectors. This conformational flexibility has been used to create small molecule drug candidates against this important oncoprotein.
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Affiliation(s)
- Raphael Gasper
- Max-Planck-Institut für molekulare Physiologie, Otto-Hahn-Str. 11, D-44227 Dortmund, Germany
| | - Fred Wittinghofer
- Max-Planck-Institut für molekulare Physiologie, Otto-Hahn-Str. 11, D-44227 Dortmund, Germany
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13
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Goebel L, Müller MP, Goody RS, Rauh D. KRasG12C inhibitors in clinical trials: a short historical perspective. RSC Med Chem 2020; 11:760-770. [PMID: 33479673 PMCID: PMC7549139 DOI: 10.1039/d0md00096e] [Citation(s) in RCA: 52] [Impact Index Per Article: 13.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/25/2020] [Accepted: 05/20/2020] [Indexed: 12/17/2022] Open
Abstract
KRas is the most frequently mutated oncogene in human cancer, and even 40 years after the initial discovery of Ras oncogenes in 1982, no approved drug directly targets Ras in Ras-driven cancer. New information and approaches for direct targeting of mutant Ras have fueled hope for the development of direct KRas inhibitors. In this review, we provide a comprehensive historical perspective of the development of promising KRasG12C inhibitors that covalently bind to the mutated cysteine residue in the switch-II pocket and trap the protein in the inactive GDP bound state. After decades of failure, three covalent G12C-specific inhibitors from three independent companies have recently entered clinical trials and therefore represent new hope for patients suffering from KRasG12C driven cancer.
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Affiliation(s)
- Lisa Goebel
- Faculty 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
- Faculty 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
| | - Roger S Goody
- Department of Structural Biochemistry , Max Planck Institute of Molecular Physiology , Otto-Hahn-Strasse 11 , 44227 Dortmund , Germany
| | - Daniel Rauh
- Faculty 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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Mattox TE, Chen X, Maxuitenko YY, Keeton AB, Piazza GA. Exploiting RAS Nucleotide Cycling as a Strategy for Drugging RAS-Driven Cancers. Int J Mol Sci 2019; 21:ijms21010141. [PMID: 31878223 PMCID: PMC6982188 DOI: 10.3390/ijms21010141] [Citation(s) in RCA: 13] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/06/2019] [Revised: 12/20/2019] [Accepted: 12/20/2019] [Indexed: 12/12/2022] Open
Abstract
Oncogenic mutations in RAS genes result in the elevation of cellular active RAS protein levels and increased signal propagation through downstream pathways that drive tumor cell proliferation and survival. These gain-of-function mutations drive over 30% of all human cancers, presenting promising therapeutic potential for RAS inhibitors. However, many have deemed RAS “undruggable” after nearly 40 years of failed drug discovery campaigns aimed at identifying a RAS inhibitor with clinical activity. Here we review RAS nucleotide cycling and the opportunities that RAS biochemistry presents for developing novel RAS inhibitory compounds. Additionally, compounds that have been identified to inhibit RAS by exploiting various aspects of RAS biology and biochemistry will be covered. Our current understanding of the biochemical properties of RAS, along with reports of direct-binding inhibitors, both provide insight on viable strategies for the discovery of novel clinical candidates with RAS inhibitory activity.
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Affiliation(s)
- Tyler E. Mattox
- Drug Discovery Research Center, University of South Alabama Mitchell Cancer Institute, Mobile, AL 36604, USA; (X.C.); (Y.Y.M.); (A.B.K.); (G.A.P.)
- Correspondence:
| | - Xi Chen
- Drug Discovery Research Center, University of South Alabama Mitchell Cancer Institute, Mobile, AL 36604, USA; (X.C.); (Y.Y.M.); (A.B.K.); (G.A.P.)
- ADT Pharmaceuticals, Orange Beach, AL 36561, USA
| | - Yulia Y. Maxuitenko
- Drug Discovery Research Center, University of South Alabama Mitchell Cancer Institute, Mobile, AL 36604, USA; (X.C.); (Y.Y.M.); (A.B.K.); (G.A.P.)
| | - Adam B. Keeton
- Drug Discovery Research Center, University of South Alabama Mitchell Cancer Institute, Mobile, AL 36604, USA; (X.C.); (Y.Y.M.); (A.B.K.); (G.A.P.)
- ADT Pharmaceuticals, Orange Beach, AL 36561, USA
| | - Gary A. Piazza
- Drug Discovery Research Center, University of South Alabama Mitchell Cancer Institute, Mobile, AL 36604, USA; (X.C.); (Y.Y.M.); (A.B.K.); (G.A.P.)
- ADT Pharmaceuticals, Orange Beach, AL 36561, USA
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15
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Goody RS, Müller MP, Rauh D. Mutant-Specific Targeting of Ras G12C Activity by Covalently Reacting Small Molecules. Cell Chem Biol 2019; 26:1338-1348. [PMID: 31378709 DOI: 10.1016/j.chembiol.2019.07.005] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/07/2019] [Revised: 05/08/2019] [Accepted: 07/07/2019] [Indexed: 11/17/2022]
Abstract
In this review we discuss and compare recently introduced molecules that are able to react covalently with an oncogenic mutant of KRas, KRas G12C. Two different classes of compounds in question have been developed, both leading to the mutant being locked in the inactive (guanosine diphosphate [GDP]-bound) state. The first are compounds that interact reversibly with the switch-II pocket (S-IIP) before covalent interaction. The second class interact in a competitive manner with the GDP/guanosine triphosphate (GTP) binding site. The fundamental physico-chemical principles of the two inhibitor classes are evaluated. For GDP/GTP-competing molecules, we show that special attention must be paid to the influence of guanine nucleotide exchange factors (GEFs) and their elevated activity in cells harboring abnormally activated Ras mutants. A new approach is suggested involving compounds that interact with the guanine binding site of the GTPase, but in a manner that is independent of the interaction of the GTPase with its cognate GEF.
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Affiliation(s)
- Roger S Goody
- Department of Structural Biochemistry, Max Planck Institute of Molecular Physiology, Otto-Hahn-Strasse 11, 44227 Dortmund, Germany.
| | - Matthias P Müller
- Faculty 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), Otto-Hahn-Strasse 4a, 44227 Dortmund, Germany
| | - Daniel Rauh
- Faculty 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), Otto-Hahn-Strasse 4a, 44227 Dortmund, Germany
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16
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Review: Precision medicine and driver mutations: Computational methods, functional assays and conformational principles for interpreting cancer drivers. PLoS Comput Biol 2019; 15:e1006658. [PMID: 30921324 PMCID: PMC6438456 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pcbi.1006658] [Citation(s) in RCA: 55] [Impact Index Per Article: 11.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/19/2022] Open
Abstract
At the root of the so-called precision medicine or precision oncology, which is our focus here, is the hypothesis that cancer treatment would be considerably better if therapies were guided by a tumor’s genomic alterations. This hypothesis has sparked major initiatives focusing on whole-genome and/or exome sequencing, creation of large databases, and developing tools for their statistical analyses—all aspiring to identify actionable alterations, and thus molecular targets, in a patient. At the center of the massive amount of collected sequence data is their interpretations that largely rest on statistical analysis and phenotypic observations. Statistics is vital, because it guides identification of cancer-driving alterations. However, statistics of mutations do not identify a change in protein conformation; therefore, it may not define sufficiently accurate actionable mutations, neglecting those that are rare. Among the many thematic overviews of precision oncology, this review innovates by further comprehensively including precision pharmacology, and within this framework, articulating its protein structural landscape and consequences to cellular signaling pathways. It provides the underlying physicochemical basis, thereby also opening the door to a broader community.
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17
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Saeed O, Lopez-Beltran A, Fisher KW, Scarpelli M, Montironi R, Cimadamore A, Massari F, Santoni M, Cheng L. RAS genes in colorectal carcinoma: pathogenesis, testing guidelines and treatment implications. J Clin Pathol 2018; 72:135-139. [PMID: 30425122 DOI: 10.1136/jclinpath-2018-205471] [Citation(s) in RCA: 23] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/28/2018] [Revised: 10/03/2018] [Accepted: 10/04/2018] [Indexed: 12/14/2022]
Abstract
The RAS family is among the most commonly mutated genes in all human malignancies including colon cancer. In normal cells, RAS proteins act as a link in the intracellular signal transduction initiated by binding of growth factors to cell membrane receptors mediating cell survival. RAS isoproteins have great morphological similarities, but despite that, they are thought to have different functions in different tissues. RAS mutations, as supported by several studies including animal models, have a role in the development and progression of colorectal cancer. The detection of RAS mutations in patients with colorectal carcinoma, specifically KRAS and NRAS, has significant clinical implications. It is currently recommended that patients with colon cancer who are considered for antiepidermal growth factor receptor monoclonal antibodies, get RAS mutation testing since only those with wildtype-RAS genes benefit from such treatment. Despite decades of research, there is currently no effective and safe treatment that directly targets RAS-mutated neoplasms. Multiple therapeutic approaches directed against RAS mutations are currently experimental, including a promising immunotherapy study using T-cells in patients with metastatic colon cancer.
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Affiliation(s)
- Omer Saeed
- Department of Pathology and Laboratory Medicine, Indiana University School of Medicine, Indianapolis, USA
| | | | - Kurt W Fisher
- Department of Pathology and Microbiology, University of Nebraska Medical Center, Omaha, USA
| | - Marina Scarpelli
- Section of Pathological Anatomy, Polytechnic University of the Marche Region, School of Medicine, United Hospitals, Ancona, Italy
| | - Rodolfo Montironi
- Section of Pathological Anatomy, Polytechnic University of the Marche Region, School of Medicine, United Hospitals, Ancona, Italy
| | - Alessia Cimadamore
- Section of Pathological Anatomy, Polytechnic University of the Marche Region, School of Medicine, United Hospitals, Ancona, Italy
| | | | | | - Liang Cheng
- Department of Pathology and Laboratory Medicine, Indiana University School of Medicine, Indianapolis, USA
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18
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Jeganathan S, Müller MP, Ali I, Goody RS. Assays for Nucleotide Competitive Reversible and Irreversible Inhibitors of Ras GTPases. Biochemistry 2018; 57:4690-4699. [PMID: 29791793 DOI: 10.1021/acs.biochem.8b00234] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/28/2022]
Abstract
Although the Ras protein has been seen as a potential target for cancer therapy for the past 30 years, there was a tendency to consider it undruggable until recently. This has changed with the demonstration that small molecules with a specificity for (disease related mutants of) Ras can indeed be found, and some of these molecules form covalent adducts. A subgroup of these molecules can be characterized as competing with binding of the natural ligands GTP and GDP. Because of the distinct properties of Ras and related GTPases, in particular the very high nucleotide affinities and associated very low dissociation rates, assays for characterizing such molecules are not trivial. This is compounded by the fact that Ras family GTPases tend to be thermally unstable in the absence of a bound nucleotide. Here, we show that instead of using the unstable nucleotide-free Ras, the protein can be isolated as a 1:1 complex with a modified nucleotide (GDP-β-methyl ester) with low affinity to Ras. With this nucleotide analogue bound to the protein, testing of inhibitors is made experimentally more convenient and we present assays that allow the rapid assessment of the kinetic constants describing the inhibition process.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sadasivam Jeganathan
- Department of Structural Biochemistry , Max Planck Institute of Molecular Physiology , Otto-Hahn-Straße 11 , 44227 , Dortmund , Germany
| | - Matthias P Müller
- Faculty of Chemistry and Chemical Biology , Dortmund University of Technology , Otto-Hahn-Straße 4a , 44227 , Dortmund , Germany
| | - Imtiaz Ali
- Department of Structural Biochemistry , Max Planck Institute of Molecular Physiology , Otto-Hahn-Straße 11 , 44227 , Dortmund , Germany
| | - Roger S Goody
- Department of Structural Biochemistry , Max Planck Institute of Molecular Physiology , Otto-Hahn-Straße 11 , 44227 , Dortmund , Germany
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19
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A New Strategy to Control and Eradicate "Undruggable" Oncogenic K-RAS-Driven Pancreatic Cancer: Molecular Insights and Core Principles Learned from Developmental and Evolutionary Biology. Cancers (Basel) 2018; 10:cancers10050142. [PMID: 29757973 PMCID: PMC5977115 DOI: 10.3390/cancers10050142] [Citation(s) in RCA: 13] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/29/2018] [Revised: 05/08/2018] [Accepted: 05/10/2018] [Indexed: 12/15/2022] Open
Abstract
Oncogenic K-RAS mutations are found in virtually all pancreatic cancers, making K-RAS one of the most targeted oncoproteins for drug development in cancer therapies. Despite intense research efforts over the past three decades, oncogenic K-RAS has remained largely “undruggable”. Rather than targeting an upstream component of the RAS signaling pathway (i.e., EGFR/HER2) and/or the midstream effector kinases (i.e., RAF/MEK/ERK/PI3K/mTOR), we propose an alternative strategy to control oncogenic K-RAS signal by targeting its most downstream signaling module, Seven-In-Absentia Homolog (SIAH). SIAH E3 ligase controls the signal output of oncogenic K-RAS hyperactivation that drives unchecked cell proliferation, uncontrolled tumor growth, and rapid cancer cell dissemination in human pancreatic cancer. Therefore, SIAH is an ideal therapeutic target as it is an extraordinarily conserved downstream signaling gatekeeper indispensable for proper RAS signaling. Guided by molecular insights and core principles obtained from developmental and evolutionary biology, we propose an anti-SIAH-centered anti-K-RAS strategy as a logical and alternative anticancer strategy to dampen uncontrolled K-RAS hyperactivation and halt tumor growth and metastasis in pancreatic cancer. The clinical utility of developing SIAH as both a tumor-specific and therapy-responsive biomarker, as well as a viable anti-K-RAS drug target, is logically simple and conceptually innovative. SIAH clearly constitutes a major tumor vulnerability and K-RAS signaling bottleneck in pancreatic ductal adenocarcinoma (PDAC). Given the high degree of evolutionary conservation in the K-RAS/SIAH signaling pathway, an anti-SIAH-based anti-PDAC therapy will synergize with covalent K-RAS inhibitors and direct K-RAS targeted initiatives to control and eradicate pancreatic cancer in the future.
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20
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The reactivity-driven biochemical mechanism of covalent KRASG12C inhibitors. Nat Struct Mol Biol 2018; 25:454-462. [DOI: 10.1038/s41594-018-0061-5] [Citation(s) in RCA: 82] [Impact Index Per Article: 13.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/14/2017] [Accepted: 04/04/2018] [Indexed: 02/03/2023]
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21
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Stites EC, Shaw AS. Quantitative Systems Pharmacology Analysis of KRAS G12C Covalent Inhibitors. CPT-PHARMACOMETRICS & SYSTEMS PHARMACOLOGY 2018; 7:342-351. [PMID: 29484842 PMCID: PMC5980551 DOI: 10.1002/psp4.12291] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/17/2017] [Revised: 12/19/2017] [Accepted: 01/22/2018] [Indexed: 12/24/2022]
Abstract
KRAS has proven difficult to target pharmacologically. Two strategies have recently been described for covalently targeting the most common KRAS mutant in lung cancer, KRAS G12C. Previously, we developed a computational model of the processes that regulate Ras activation. Here, we use this model to investigate KRAS G12C covalent inhibitors. We updated the model to include Ras protein turnover, and validation demonstrates that our model performs well in areas of G12C targeting where conventional wisdom struggles. We then used the model to investigate possible strategies to improve KRAS G12C inhibitors and identified GEF loading as a mechanism that could improve efficacy. Our simulations also found resistance‐promoting mutations may reverse which class of KRAS G12C inhibitor inhibits the system better, suggesting that there may be value to pursuing both types of KRAS G12C inhibitors. Overall, this work demonstrates areas in which systems biology approaches can inform Ras drug development.
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Affiliation(s)
- Edward C Stites
- Division of Laboratory and Genomic Medicine, Department of Pathology and Immunology, Washington University in St. Louis, St. Louis, Missouri, USA
| | - Andrey S Shaw
- Research Biology, Genentech, South San Francisco, California, USA
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22
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Spencer-Smith R, O'Bryan JP. Direct inhibition of RAS: Quest for the Holy Grail? Semin Cancer Biol 2017; 54:138-148. [PMID: 29248537 DOI: 10.1016/j.semcancer.2017.12.005] [Citation(s) in RCA: 55] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/22/2017] [Accepted: 12/13/2017] [Indexed: 12/25/2022]
Abstract
RAS GTPases (H-, K-, and N-RAS) are the most frequently mutated oncoprotein family in human cancer. However, the relatively smooth surface architecture of RAS and its picomolar affinity for nucleotide have given rise to the assumption that RAS is an "undruggable" target. Recent advancements in drug screening, molecular modeling, and a greater understanding of RAS function have led to a resurgence in efforts to pharmacologically target this challenging foe. This review focuses on the state of the art of RAS inhibition, the approaches taken to achieve this goal, and the challenges of translating these discoveries into viable therapeutics.
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Affiliation(s)
- Russell Spencer-Smith
- Department of Pharmacology, University of Illinois at Chicago, Chicago, IL, USA; University of Illinois Cancer Center, University of Illinois at Chicago, Chicago, IL, USA; Jesse Brown VA Medical Center, Chicago, IL, USA
| | - John P O'Bryan
- Department of Pharmacology, University of Illinois at Chicago, Chicago, IL, USA; University of Illinois Cancer Center, University of Illinois at Chicago, Chicago, IL, USA; Jesse Brown VA Medical Center, Chicago, IL, USA.
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